No more speculations. Priyanka Chopra returns as the feisty butt-kicker for Farhan Akhtar’s ‘Don 2’. The National Award winning actress has confirmed the news.
Priyanka tells a tabloid, “Yes, I am doing ‘Don 2’. Ever since I worked in the first movie, I was looking forward to being on board for the sequel as well. It would be good to be a part of ‘Don 2’ as it is an action thriller.”
Farhan, who is busy with other projects, was planning ‘Don 2’ ever since he made the ‘Don’ remake with Shahrukh Khan. Though SRK’s presence was confirmed, it was doubtful whether Priyanka will feature in the sequel. She acted well and looked stunning as Roma, the character originally played by Zeenat Aman. In fact, Priyanka even learnt martial arts for it.
On the other hand, Priyanka is not doing Dostana sequel. The original desi girl will be missing from the movie. “No, I am not the leading lady of ‘Dostana 2’. My story had ended in ‘Dostana’ and there was no point being paired with any of the boys (Abhishek Bachchan and John Abraham) in the sequel.”
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Shahrukh's Khan sweet finger
She has been in love with him since she was seven, has watched all his films, and she dressed up as a bride at a five-star hotel in Ahmedabad where Shahrukh Khan came to promote his upcoming film My Name Is Khan.
It was a unique promotional event where people who had unusual love stories were called in to narrate their tales. When the 20-year-old Tillana Desai came on stage, she said she’s loved someone since her childhood but can’t marry him as he’s already married.
When asked who the man was, SRK was shocked to know that Tillana has been in love with him for most of her life. The besotted fan then took out a wedding ring and asked SRK to marry her.
Courteous enough to not break her heart, SRK obliged by staging a mock marriage with Tillana. He bent down on his knee and slid the ring into Tillana’s finger. The girl was simply ecstatic, to say the least.
“I will never remove the ring and I am glad that he accepted my love and admiration for him,” Tillana later told a tabloid.
It was a unique promotional event where people who had unusual love stories were called in to narrate their tales. When the 20-year-old Tillana Desai came on stage, she said she’s loved someone since her childhood but can’t marry him as he’s already married.
When asked who the man was, SRK was shocked to know that Tillana has been in love with him for most of her life. The besotted fan then took out a wedding ring and asked SRK to marry her.
Courteous enough to not break her heart, SRK obliged by staging a mock marriage with Tillana. He bent down on his knee and slid the ring into Tillana’s finger. The girl was simply ecstatic, to say the least.
“I will never remove the ring and I am glad that he accepted my love and admiration for him,” Tillana later told a tabloid.
Aishwarya and Abhishek remember memories
Eleven years ago, Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai first shot together at Filmistan Studios in Mumbai. Now, more than a decade later, the duo returned to the same shooting location, albeit as husband and wife.
“It was here on the very same floor 11 years ago that we gave our first ever shot together. The movie was 'Dhai Akshar Prem Ke'. Great memories,” Abhishek recalled in a post on his Twitter page.
The actor added that he hadn’t even imagined back then that he would one day be married to Ash.
“Then, I would have never dreamt that the next time we shoot here would be as husband and wife. How time flies, how lives change,” he added.
Ash and Abhi on Tuesday shot the ad film directed by Tarun Mansukhani (Dostana) and produced by Dino Morea.
Complimenting his wife’s stunning looks on the sets, Abhishek did crack a joke on himself, however.
“The wife is looking her usual stunning self, and me....... Well, I'm looking like Shrek's cousin,” Abhi tweeted somewhat self-derogatively.
The hubby-wife duo will next be seen in director Mani Ratnam’s film Raavan.
“It was here on the very same floor 11 years ago that we gave our first ever shot together. The movie was 'Dhai Akshar Prem Ke'. Great memories,” Abhishek recalled in a post on his Twitter page.
The actor added that he hadn’t even imagined back then that he would one day be married to Ash.
“Then, I would have never dreamt that the next time we shoot here would be as husband and wife. How time flies, how lives change,” he added.
Ash and Abhi on Tuesday shot the ad film directed by Tarun Mansukhani (Dostana) and produced by Dino Morea.
Complimenting his wife’s stunning looks on the sets, Abhishek did crack a joke on himself, however.
“The wife is looking her usual stunning self, and me....... Well, I'm looking like Shrek's cousin,” Abhi tweeted somewhat self-derogatively.
The hubby-wife duo will next be seen in director Mani Ratnam’s film Raavan.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Madhur Bhandarkar wants Kareena Kapoor
Fashion diva and Bollywood actress Kareena Kapoor has been approached by director Madhur Bhandarkar for a film. This the newest buzz from tinsel town.
Kareena, who has mega-budget movies like Karan Johar’s ‘Stepmom’ remake and Agent Vinod with beau Saif Ali Khan lined up for release this year, can also sign Bhandarkar’s movie. As a source tells a tabloid, “Bebo is very excited to be working with him (Bhandarkar). They have both been keen on working together for a long time.”
Madhur, as all know, likes to portray reality on celluloid and has made good women-centric films till now. After the success of Fashion the director has mustered courage to make a film on a more commercial level. Reports reveal that Madhur is planning a hard-hitting, social film for which he is keen to have Kareena and that he loved her in Chameli.
However, Bebo hasn’t said anything about the movie but is quoted as saying, “Madhur is any actress’ dream director. He can extract the best performances from anybody.”
Kareena, who has mega-budget movies like Karan Johar’s ‘Stepmom’ remake and Agent Vinod with beau Saif Ali Khan lined up for release this year, can also sign Bhandarkar’s movie. As a source tells a tabloid, “Bebo is very excited to be working with him (Bhandarkar). They have both been keen on working together for a long time.”
Madhur, as all know, likes to portray reality on celluloid and has made good women-centric films till now. After the success of Fashion the director has mustered courage to make a film on a more commercial level. Reports reveal that Madhur is planning a hard-hitting, social film for which he is keen to have Kareena and that he loved her in Chameli.
However, Bebo hasn’t said anything about the movie but is quoted as saying, “Madhur is any actress’ dream director. He can extract the best performances from anybody.”
Hrithik Roshan and Katrina Kaif will pair
Two of the most attractive stars of Bollywood are set to pair up for the first time. Katrina Kaif, after being romanced on screen by the likes of Akshay Kumar, Salman Khan, Ranbir Kapoor and even Govinda, is now set to whip up some smouldering chemistry with Hrithik Roshan in director Zoya Akhtar’s second film.
The movie will have three leading men - Hrithik, Farhan Akhtar and Abhay Deol. But out of them, only one star will have a romantic track. That’s Hrithik. And Katrina will be his love interest.
Reportedly, Katrina has yet to give her final nod to Zoya Akhtar. If she indeed comes aboard, it would mark a casting coup since she’s never been cast opposite Hrithik before.
The movie, set in Spain, is expected to roll by April.
Katrina’s next release, meanwhile, will be Prakash Jha’s Raajneeti in which she’s the only popular actress among a host of male stars.
The movie will have three leading men - Hrithik, Farhan Akhtar and Abhay Deol. But out of them, only one star will have a romantic track. That’s Hrithik. And Katrina will be his love interest.
Reportedly, Katrina has yet to give her final nod to Zoya Akhtar. If she indeed comes aboard, it would mark a casting coup since she’s never been cast opposite Hrithik before.
The movie, set in Spain, is expected to roll by April.
Katrina’s next release, meanwhile, will be Prakash Jha’s Raajneeti in which she’s the only popular actress among a host of male stars.
I'm Too Fat To Wear A Bikini: Zarine Khan
Zarine Khan’s resemblance to Katrina Kaif ends at her face only. For at her body, Zarine is far from the shapely Kaif gal. Looking chubby in the fetching gowns she dons in her debut film Veer, Zarine says she’s just not ready yet to slip into a bikini because she considers herself “fat”.
“What I am sure about though is that I would never be able to wear a bikini. That's because I am constantly thinking that I am fat, I am fat, I am fat. Till the time this voice reverberates inside my head, I will always be apprehensive,” Zarine is quoted as saying by a news agency.
For those who don’t know, Zarine comes from a family with no Bollywood connections. She originally wanted to be a doctor but the financial constraints of her family compelled her to start working in the modelling industry at a young age. And Zarine has no hesitation in admitting that she was once a roly-poly fatso.
“In fact, during my school and college days, I used to weigh as much as 100 kilos.... It was only after I started doing modelling that my weight went down by 40-45 kilos from an original 100,” Zarine said.
Much to her relief, Zarine wasn’t asked to lose weight for her role as a princess in ‘Veer’ because the character needed to look a bit chubby. So she binged on chocolates to her heart’s content.
“Why just chocolates? I also got to eat other junk stuff which I had to earlier sacrifice,” she revealed.
But now that Zarine is eyeing a regular career in Bollywood, the gal is aware that she will have to lose weight and slim down. She’s already started doing so.
“I want to play all kinds of roles and get into the kind of attire that a Hindi film heroine is required to wear. However, before that I will have to get rid of all the excess weight that I currently have on me,” Zarine said.
She’s yet to sign her second film.
“What I am sure about though is that I would never be able to wear a bikini. That's because I am constantly thinking that I am fat, I am fat, I am fat. Till the time this voice reverberates inside my head, I will always be apprehensive,” Zarine is quoted as saying by a news agency.
For those who don’t know, Zarine comes from a family with no Bollywood connections. She originally wanted to be a doctor but the financial constraints of her family compelled her to start working in the modelling industry at a young age. And Zarine has no hesitation in admitting that she was once a roly-poly fatso.
“In fact, during my school and college days, I used to weigh as much as 100 kilos.... It was only after I started doing modelling that my weight went down by 40-45 kilos from an original 100,” Zarine said.
Much to her relief, Zarine wasn’t asked to lose weight for her role as a princess in ‘Veer’ because the character needed to look a bit chubby. So she binged on chocolates to her heart’s content.
“Why just chocolates? I also got to eat other junk stuff which I had to earlier sacrifice,” she revealed.
But now that Zarine is eyeing a regular career in Bollywood, the gal is aware that she will have to lose weight and slim down. She’s already started doing so.
“I want to play all kinds of roles and get into the kind of attire that a Hindi film heroine is required to wear. However, before that I will have to get rid of all the excess weight that I currently have on me,” Zarine said.
She’s yet to sign her second film.
"Veer" started quite well
Salman Khan’s latest release Veer is getting mixed response from audiences. While the movie has gotten off to a bumper start at single screen theatres, its run at multiplexes has been strictly average.
As reported, the movie’s first weekend collection is around Rs 19.50 crore approx, which means a fairly good business. On Friday it did Rs 7 crore business; Saturday saw a weak response but it managed Rs 5.25 crore while Sunday was remarkably good with Rs 7.25 crore business. By the end of its first week, the movie is expected to make around Rs 31-32 crore, which is quite a decent amount given all the negative reviews it has got from critics.
The movie might continue its successful run in North India thanks to single screen business and Sallu’s fan following which is huge in the Hindi belt. The movie is already being described as the first success of 2010 and if it does good business in second week it can easily emerge as the first hit of the year with Rs 30 crore-plus share. However, Shahid Kapoor starrer Chance Pe Dance witnessed a poor first week with business of merely Rs 8.50 crore approx. A sureshot flop.
Well, box office still favours 3 Idiots. The movie did a business of Rs 17.50 crore approx in its fourth weekend which takes the four-week business to Rs 183.50 crore approx; running to packed houses, the movie is not very far from the Rs 200 crore mark business.
This week’s releases are two interesting movies Ishqiya and Rann.
As reported, the movie’s first weekend collection is around Rs 19.50 crore approx, which means a fairly good business. On Friday it did Rs 7 crore business; Saturday saw a weak response but it managed Rs 5.25 crore while Sunday was remarkably good with Rs 7.25 crore business. By the end of its first week, the movie is expected to make around Rs 31-32 crore, which is quite a decent amount given all the negative reviews it has got from critics.
The movie might continue its successful run in North India thanks to single screen business and Sallu’s fan following which is huge in the Hindi belt. The movie is already being described as the first success of 2010 and if it does good business in second week it can easily emerge as the first hit of the year with Rs 30 crore-plus share. However, Shahid Kapoor starrer Chance Pe Dance witnessed a poor first week with business of merely Rs 8.50 crore approx. A sureshot flop.
Well, box office still favours 3 Idiots. The movie did a business of Rs 17.50 crore approx in its fourth weekend which takes the four-week business to Rs 183.50 crore approx; running to packed houses, the movie is not very far from the Rs 200 crore mark business.
This week’s releases are two interesting movies Ishqiya and Rann.
Katrina Kaif bonds with Shahrukh Khan
Katrina Kaif has never let her equation with Shahrukh Khan get ugly because of the latter’s ongoing cold war with her beau Salman Khan.
The latest buzz doing the rounds is that at a recent party thrown by Arjun Rampal to celebrate the National Award win for Rock On (Arjun himself won the Best Supporting Actor award), Katrina and SRK arrived at the party together but in different cars.
To keep the paparazzi from clicking them together, Kat waited in her car until SRK had walked in and after a few minutes went in herself.
Sources say there was no awkwardness between any guests at the party. Katrina bonded with everyone, including SRK. On top of it, even Farah Khan was seen chatting amicably with SRK. There were recent reports of a rift between Farah and SRK after she opted for Akshay for her film Tees Maar Khan.
But Rampal’s party at his Bandra home was an occasion to bond and not dredge up past differences. And a lot of bonding sure did happen.
The latest buzz doing the rounds is that at a recent party thrown by Arjun Rampal to celebrate the National Award win for Rock On (Arjun himself won the Best Supporting Actor award), Katrina and SRK arrived at the party together but in different cars.
To keep the paparazzi from clicking them together, Kat waited in her car until SRK had walked in and after a few minutes went in herself.
Sources say there was no awkwardness between any guests at the party. Katrina bonded with everyone, including SRK. On top of it, even Farah Khan was seen chatting amicably with SRK. There were recent reports of a rift between Farah and SRK after she opted for Akshay for her film Tees Maar Khan.
But Rampal’s party at his Bandra home was an occasion to bond and not dredge up past differences. And a lot of bonding sure did happen.
Veer Isn't 100 crores
Filmmaker Anil Sharma is exasperated. Even though his Veer has opened well at the box office, there are questions being raised around its expected eventual box office outcome, courtesy it's heavy budget. Though the film is undeniably set on a huge scale and has an extravagant look and feel to it, Veer - as per Anil Sharma - isn't really carrying a mega expensive multi crore budget tag as is being perceived.
"It is certainly not in Rs. 100 crores range as is being said out there", fumes Anil Sharma who last saw such comments working inversely for his Sunny Deol starrer The Hero, "It's completely untrue. People just come up with certain imaginative figures but the real fact is something that the makers know best. Rest assured, Veer isn't as costly as some people want to believe."
His comments come with a fair reason. When released, The Hero was touted as a Rs. 50 crores film. Since it was his next release after Gadar - Ek Prem Katha, there was nothing less expected from The Hero. The film did quite well at the box office but since it couldn't match up to the kind of response that Gadar - Ek Prem Katha had, it was labelled as an under performer.
"This entire Rs.50 crore talk was a publicity stunt which backfired on us", says Sharma, "Considering half the film was shot in Manali, how could the production costs have been so massive? The budget was quite minimal actually and the film was completed in Rs. 22-23 crores. I am even willing to share the breakdown with you where the director and the actor were paid 8 crores. You tell me, where would the remainder Rs.40 odd crores have been spent?"
Unwilling to mince any words, he continues, "Just because Gadar did such huge business, this entire stunt around Rs. 50 crores budget was played up by the makers. It was all so wrong because this trend seems to be catching up even till date. It does more harm than good. In fact you people from media should also ask a question asking where did the money go? Filmmakers say that their film was made in a certain budget and everyone just trusts them blindly. But they say that, so that the film gets sold on a higher figure, however, you should also challenge such astronomical amounts before printing anything."
Meanwhile, Sharma is also pained by his long wait for awards. It's a known fact that in spite of being the biggest blockbuster of modern times (before 3 Idiots came in), Gadar - Ek Prem Katha didn't fetch a single major award for itself in spite of finding a nod of approval from the paying public.
"It is a known fact that Gadar is one of the 3-4 major movies that have come from India. It is one of the biggest blockbusters and has got me so much respect over the years. Also remember that there were no multiplexes in those times. In fact even till date, the Mumbai record for the film hasn't been broken. I am sure that if released today, the film would have done the business of Rs.100 crores just in Mumbai territory. People get excited even till date when it comes on TV", says Sharma who continues to be perplexed about the step motherly treatment that the film got at all the award functions.
"Yes, the film didn't get awards because producers (Zee) didn't pursue much", ponders Sharma, "But then this is a kind of trend that we have seen over the years when it comes to blockbusters. Even Mughal-E-Azam and Sholay didn't get many awards on their release even though they stay on to be the biggest blockbusters ever. I guess the only blockbuster which has got massive mass and class acclaim is Mother India."
Reflecting on the state of affairs, Sharma says, "Award organisers are the ones to be blamed for their wrong judgement since they just don't seem to be in sync with what audience likes. In fact media should also highlight this fact. I mean isn't it strange that Gadar didn't win a single award in the popular category when it was creating a havoc across the country? So what's the definition of 'popular' in this case?"
It appears that Sharma is continuing to hold a grudge even though close to a decade has passed by since the release of Gadar.
"Oh yes, I certainly do have a grudge", Sharma lets his emotions run high here, "When public got what the film was all about, then why not jury? Did we not deserve a few awards? This is why people like Aamir are right in not going for awards functions at all."
"It is certainly not in Rs. 100 crores range as is being said out there", fumes Anil Sharma who last saw such comments working inversely for his Sunny Deol starrer The Hero, "It's completely untrue. People just come up with certain imaginative figures but the real fact is something that the makers know best. Rest assured, Veer isn't as costly as some people want to believe."
His comments come with a fair reason. When released, The Hero was touted as a Rs. 50 crores film. Since it was his next release after Gadar - Ek Prem Katha, there was nothing less expected from The Hero. The film did quite well at the box office but since it couldn't match up to the kind of response that Gadar - Ek Prem Katha had, it was labelled as an under performer.
"This entire Rs.50 crore talk was a publicity stunt which backfired on us", says Sharma, "Considering half the film was shot in Manali, how could the production costs have been so massive? The budget was quite minimal actually and the film was completed in Rs. 22-23 crores. I am even willing to share the breakdown with you where the director and the actor were paid 8 crores. You tell me, where would the remainder Rs.40 odd crores have been spent?"
Unwilling to mince any words, he continues, "Just because Gadar did such huge business, this entire stunt around Rs. 50 crores budget was played up by the makers. It was all so wrong because this trend seems to be catching up even till date. It does more harm than good. In fact you people from media should also ask a question asking where did the money go? Filmmakers say that their film was made in a certain budget and everyone just trusts them blindly. But they say that, so that the film gets sold on a higher figure, however, you should also challenge such astronomical amounts before printing anything."
Meanwhile, Sharma is also pained by his long wait for awards. It's a known fact that in spite of being the biggest blockbuster of modern times (before 3 Idiots came in), Gadar - Ek Prem Katha didn't fetch a single major award for itself in spite of finding a nod of approval from the paying public.
"It is a known fact that Gadar is one of the 3-4 major movies that have come from India. It is one of the biggest blockbusters and has got me so much respect over the years. Also remember that there were no multiplexes in those times. In fact even till date, the Mumbai record for the film hasn't been broken. I am sure that if released today, the film would have done the business of Rs.100 crores just in Mumbai territory. People get excited even till date when it comes on TV", says Sharma who continues to be perplexed about the step motherly treatment that the film got at all the award functions.
"Yes, the film didn't get awards because producers (Zee) didn't pursue much", ponders Sharma, "But then this is a kind of trend that we have seen over the years when it comes to blockbusters. Even Mughal-E-Azam and Sholay didn't get many awards on their release even though they stay on to be the biggest blockbusters ever. I guess the only blockbuster which has got massive mass and class acclaim is Mother India."
Reflecting on the state of affairs, Sharma says, "Award organisers are the ones to be blamed for their wrong judgement since they just don't seem to be in sync with what audience likes. In fact media should also highlight this fact. I mean isn't it strange that Gadar didn't win a single award in the popular category when it was creating a havoc across the country? So what's the definition of 'popular' in this case?"
It appears that Sharma is continuing to hold a grudge even though close to a decade has passed by since the release of Gadar.
"Oh yes, I certainly do have a grudge", Sharma lets his emotions run high here, "When public got what the film was all about, then why not jury? Did we not deserve a few awards? This is why people like Aamir are right in not going for awards functions at all."
Abhishek Bachchan in Anurag Basu's next
Director Anurag Basu has been in the news for quite sometime now, courtesy, his most awaited film Kites, which stars Hrithik Roshan alongside Barbara Mori. Well, the news is that, even as the release date of the film has been oscillating from one end to the other, Anurag Basu now been roped in by Goldie Behl for a film.
The friendship between Abhishek and Goldie is as old as the indomitable 'Jai-Veeru' jodi. So, it comes as no surprise that Abhishek has been signed as the male lead for the film which will be produced by Goldie and directed by Anurag Basu.
One of Bollywood Hungama's confirmed sources said, "Hrithik required his father to back Kites and now Abhishek's close friend Goldie will produce his next and that the movie will be Anurag's most ambitious project till date. It truly has a genius script." From what we got to hear, the said film will be shot in exotic locations with never seen before visuals and a lot of work will go into Abhishek's look for the film as well. This will surely be one of the most highly anticipated films.
The friendship between Abhishek and Goldie is as old as the indomitable 'Jai-Veeru' jodi. So, it comes as no surprise that Abhishek has been signed as the male lead for the film which will be produced by Goldie and directed by Anurag Basu.
One of Bollywood Hungama's confirmed sources said, "Hrithik required his father to back Kites and now Abhishek's close friend Goldie will produce his next and that the movie will be Anurag's most ambitious project till date. It truly has a genius script." From what we got to hear, the said film will be shot in exotic locations with never seen before visuals and a lot of work will go into Abhishek's look for the film as well. This will surely be one of the most highly anticipated films.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Giselle signed up as brand embassador for Movil Mobiles
She came, she saw and she conquered... only to realize that she wasn't what she was...but she was what she wasn't! Well, this is what everyone who saw the Brazilian supermodel Giselle Monteiro in the smash hit Love Aaj Kal felt. For starters, Giselle Monteiro is the same PYT who played the role of the typical Punjabi kudi Harleen Kaur in the film so well and so convincing that it came as a bolt from the blue when everyone 'discovered' that leaves alone the fact that she wasn't a Punjabi, she was not even an Indian!
Well, it is the same Giselle Monteiro who has now been signed up as the brand ambassador of the newly launched Movil Mobiles. According to Bollywood Hungama's confirmed sources, the said company signed up with Giselle because they felt that she fitted the brand to a 'T', and that they were happy with the fact that she has a very universal face appeal!
Seems like Giselle is going to have long innings in Bollywood as well as in the ad world.
Well, it is the same Giselle Monteiro who has now been signed up as the brand ambassador of the newly launched Movil Mobiles. According to Bollywood Hungama's confirmed sources, the said company signed up with Giselle because they felt that she fitted the brand to a 'T', and that they were happy with the fact that she has a very universal face appeal!
Seems like Giselle is going to have long innings in Bollywood as well as in the ad world.
Katrina Kaif will marry in 2012
Katrina Kaif is certain she will get married in 2012. And since that’s just two years from now, she is all set to have the time of her life in films.
That also explains her choices, which currently consist of Farah Khan’s Tees Maar Khan, Imtiaz Ali’s Rockstar and Tarun Mansukhani’s Dostana 2, which should take care of this year.
It also means she has stopped looking for another home. “I’ll get married and go to my husband’s home,” she says fluttering her eyelashes, “Why put in so much money into a new home when I have a perfectly comfortable one at the moment?”
Whether the 2012 groom will be Salman Khan or someone she still has to meet, or whether it will even be another actor, is something she refuses to comment on.
That also explains her choices, which currently consist of Farah Khan’s Tees Maar Khan, Imtiaz Ali’s Rockstar and Tarun Mansukhani’s Dostana 2, which should take care of this year.
It also means she has stopped looking for another home. “I’ll get married and go to my husband’s home,” she says fluttering her eyelashes, “Why put in so much money into a new home when I have a perfectly comfortable one at the moment?”
Whether the 2012 groom will be Salman Khan or someone she still has to meet, or whether it will even be another actor, is something she refuses to comment on.
Minissha bought a new apartment
Minissha Lamba is on cloud nine - last month, she finally bought her first house, a three-bedroom flat at Raj Classique in Andheri, where Bollywood celebrities Priyanka Chopra, Shahid Kapoor, Abbas Tyrewala and Satish Kaushik will be her neighbours.
Says an excited Minissha, “I have been house hunting for the last six months. I had scanned the whole of Yari Road, Four Bungalows and the Versova stretch, but couldn’t find what I wanted. I was so tired by the exertion that at one point I thought of just giving up. However, I never thought of looking in this building because I never thought it would have a flat for sale. It was sheer chance that I happened to see this flat. The moment I saw it, I fell in love with it. Being single in the city, it is very important to have your own place. I am planning to do the interior design myself.
Says an excited Minissha, “I have been house hunting for the last six months. I had scanned the whole of Yari Road, Four Bungalows and the Versova stretch, but couldn’t find what I wanted. I was so tired by the exertion that at one point I thought of just giving up. However, I never thought of looking in this building because I never thought it would have a flat for sale. It was sheer chance that I happened to see this flat. The moment I saw it, I fell in love with it. Being single in the city, it is very important to have your own place. I am planning to do the interior design myself.
22 gifts for Kangna
Kangna Ranaut is understandably ecstatic. After winning the National Award for Best Supporting Actress in Madhur Bhandarkar’s Fashion, she has reason to party as hard as she works.
She was delightfully surprised when yesterday evening at around 4 pm, Sameer, a Delhi-based fan, sent a huge gift hamper to Kangna’s place. Inside were three boxes – one with 22 wine bottles, another with 22 cakes of different shapes and sizes and the third loaded with 22 accessories including earrings, bracelets, and bangles. There was also a sweet note from the fan accompanying the parcel saying, “22 because you are a 22-year-old and a National Award is no mean achievement at such a young age.” Atta girl, Kangs.
She was delightfully surprised when yesterday evening at around 4 pm, Sameer, a Delhi-based fan, sent a huge gift hamper to Kangna’s place. Inside were three boxes – one with 22 wine bottles, another with 22 cakes of different shapes and sizes and the third loaded with 22 accessories including earrings, bracelets, and bangles. There was also a sweet note from the fan accompanying the parcel saying, “22 because you are a 22-year-old and a National Award is no mean achievement at such a young age.” Atta girl, Kangs.
Zarine Khan was skeptical
After Deepika Padukone and Anushka Sharma, both of whom debuted opposite Shah Rukh Khan in their maiden films, it's time for a new entrant to maker her mark in Bollywood. The name is Zarine Khan, who in her first ever Bollywood outing got an opportunity to star opposite none other than Salman Khan. With VEER opening well and Zarine too finding some decent to good appreciation coming her way, the pretty girl can't stop smiling.
"All through the making of the film, I was a bit skeptical whether people would be able to accept me as a leading lady or not", comes a candid confession from Zarine who got VEER by a stroke of luck, "With all the weight on my body that I had to put up for the film, I was unsure about people liking me. However, with people giving thumbs up to the film and good comments coming my way, I am thrilled."
She has all the reasons to be thrilled. After all, she did enjoy a fair share of media and audience attention before the release of the film as well, an opportunity that not many debutant girls get, especially when your co-star is someone as huge as Salman Khan.
Laughs Zarine, "Ask me. I was in wrap for close to two years and I always used to wonder about the reaction of people. I was also pining to come forward and interact with my fan base which was building up over the months. Thankfully I got this chance before the release of the film as well and now with VEER out in theaters, I hope there are more and more people who are like me. Now that I have got my first exposure of being a Bollywood heroine, I certainly look forward to many more outings."
"All through the making of the film, I was a bit skeptical whether people would be able to accept me as a leading lady or not", comes a candid confession from Zarine who got VEER by a stroke of luck, "With all the weight on my body that I had to put up for the film, I was unsure about people liking me. However, with people giving thumbs up to the film and good comments coming my way, I am thrilled."
She has all the reasons to be thrilled. After all, she did enjoy a fair share of media and audience attention before the release of the film as well, an opportunity that not many debutant girls get, especially when your co-star is someone as huge as Salman Khan.
Laughs Zarine, "Ask me. I was in wrap for close to two years and I always used to wonder about the reaction of people. I was also pining to come forward and interact with my fan base which was building up over the months. Thankfully I got this chance before the release of the film as well and now with VEER out in theaters, I hope there are more and more people who are like me. Now that I have got my first exposure of being a Bollywood heroine, I certainly look forward to many more outings."
"Tees Maar Khan" start in March
There may be a five month gap between Akshay Kumar's last release DE DANA DAN (November 2009) and upcoming HOUSEFULL (April 2010). However, Akshay Kumar is not resting. He is currently busy with the shooting of Nikhil Advani directed PATIALA HOUSE and would soon be entering the full-on mad commercial world of Farah Khan with TEES MAAR KHAN going on floors soon.
Confirms Shirish Kunder, producer of TEES MAAR KHAN and Farah Khan's husband, "Yes, shooting for TEES MAAR KHAN starts on 1st March. I can promise that together, we would be putting our best efforts to make this the most entertaining film ever."
There may be a five month gap between Akshay Kumar's last release DE DANA DAN (November 2009) and upcoming HOUSEFULL (April 2010). However, Akshay Kumar is not resting. He is currently busy with the shooting of Nikhil Advani directed PATIALA HOUSE and would soon be entering the full-on mad commercial world of Farah Khan with TEES MAAR KHAN going on floors soon.
Confirms Shirish Kunder, producer of TEES MAAR KHAN and Farah Khan's husband, "Yes, shooting for TEES MAAR KHAN starts on 1st March. I can promise that together, we would be putting our best efforts to make this the most entertaining film ever."
Confirms Shirish Kunder, producer of TEES MAAR KHAN and Farah Khan's husband, "Yes, shooting for TEES MAAR KHAN starts on 1st March. I can promise that together, we would be putting our best efforts to make this the most entertaining film ever."
There may be a five month gap between Akshay Kumar's last release DE DANA DAN (November 2009) and upcoming HOUSEFULL (April 2010). However, Akshay Kumar is not resting. He is currently busy with the shooting of Nikhil Advani directed PATIALA HOUSE and would soon be entering the full-on mad commercial world of Farah Khan with TEES MAAR KHAN going on floors soon.
Confirms Shirish Kunder, producer of TEES MAAR KHAN and Farah Khan's husband, "Yes, shooting for TEES MAAR KHAN starts on 1st March. I can promise that together, we would be putting our best efforts to make this the most entertaining film ever."
Anushka Sharma wears bum bags
What’s that? Well, as per recent reports model-turned-actress Anushka Sharma has to wear bum bags to fit the character she plays in the movie Patiala House.
Actually, in the movie she is portraying a Punjabi girl, like in her debut Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, and when she dressed in Patiala-suits and short kurtis, she looked pencil-thin. Anushka is naturally slim and tall and her size-zero figure is just well-suited for her Yashraj’s next, which is an untitled project opposite Shahid Kapoor, where the actress needs to look fit.
But for ‘Patiala House’ opposite Akshay Kumar that slender frame of hers doesn’t go well with the fleshy character. So her designer got a better idea to solve the problem.
As a source tells a daily, “When she wore the ethnic dresses, she was looking way too skinny. Punjabi girls are heavier on the lower body, especially the hips. Since Anushka nowhere resembled a Punjabi girl in that aspect, designer Jaimal Odedra decided to attach bum pads inside her salwars to make her derriere look heavier.”
However, designer Jaimal refuses to comment on this matter. It may sound funny but there was a report a few weeks back that Shahid Kapoor too has gone for padded bums to accentuate his hips.
Actually, in the movie she is portraying a Punjabi girl, like in her debut Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, and when she dressed in Patiala-suits and short kurtis, she looked pencil-thin. Anushka is naturally slim and tall and her size-zero figure is just well-suited for her Yashraj’s next, which is an untitled project opposite Shahid Kapoor, where the actress needs to look fit.
But for ‘Patiala House’ opposite Akshay Kumar that slender frame of hers doesn’t go well with the fleshy character. So her designer got a better idea to solve the problem.
As a source tells a daily, “When she wore the ethnic dresses, she was looking way too skinny. Punjabi girls are heavier on the lower body, especially the hips. Since Anushka nowhere resembled a Punjabi girl in that aspect, designer Jaimal Odedra decided to attach bum pads inside her salwars to make her derriere look heavier.”
However, designer Jaimal refuses to comment on this matter. It may sound funny but there was a report a few weeks back that Shahid Kapoor too has gone for padded bums to accentuate his hips.
Akshay Kumar replaces Salman Khan in underwear ad
Bollywood’s original khiladi Akshay Kumar might show some daring stunts while sporting innerwear. No kidding. Akki has replaced Bollywood hunk Salman Khan to become the new face of Dollar Club, an innerwear brand.
In fact, the company has plans to spend Rs 25 crore on the ad campaign which will feature Akshay. So what does the star have to say on his first innerwear endorsement?
The actor tells a tabloid, “I am happy to be associated with Dollar Innerwear because there is a perfect fit between Dollar and me, since the brand stands for style of the future generation and I have been always a style statement for younger generation.”
Akki is soon going to shoot for the ads in some foreign locales which are likely to be aired in the first week of February.
In fact, the company has plans to spend Rs 25 crore on the ad campaign which will feature Akshay. So what does the star have to say on his first innerwear endorsement?
The actor tells a tabloid, “I am happy to be associated with Dollar Innerwear because there is a perfect fit between Dollar and me, since the brand stands for style of the future generation and I have been always a style statement for younger generation.”
Akki is soon going to shoot for the ads in some foreign locales which are likely to be aired in the first week of February.
"Veer" slashed into legal troubles
Today when there are well above 250 films releasing every year in Bollywood, finding a unique concept can be a task, and every now and then, there are claims of copyright infringement being made. The latest film blamed for copyright infringement is Veer, and the makers of the film are accused of lifting some concepts from a certain book without any approval from its author.
The Salman Khan starrer that released recently has been dragged to court for copyright violation by author Pavan Choudary. The plaintiff claims that the idea and concept that India should not be a 'Sone Ki Chidiya' but 'Baaj' (hawk) has almost been identically copied and adapted from his book 'Trilogy of Wisdom' and that the makers of Veer are using the same for their commercial gains.
Justice V. K. Shali of Delhi High Court has since asked actor Salman Khan, the film's producers and also director Anil Sharma to file their response on the allegation levelled by author Pavan Choudary, who has sought damages of Rs. 20 lakh from them. The author also pleaded that the court should stay the screening of the film.
The Salman Khan starrer that released recently has been dragged to court for copyright violation by author Pavan Choudary. The plaintiff claims that the idea and concept that India should not be a 'Sone Ki Chidiya' but 'Baaj' (hawk) has almost been identically copied and adapted from his book 'Trilogy of Wisdom' and that the makers of Veer are using the same for their commercial gains.
Justice V. K. Shali of Delhi High Court has since asked actor Salman Khan, the film's producers and also director Anil Sharma to file their response on the allegation levelled by author Pavan Choudary, who has sought damages of Rs. 20 lakh from them. The author also pleaded that the court should stay the screening of the film.
Madhur excited after "Fashion" win at National Awards
Soon after the National Awards were announced and his film Fashion fetched Priyanka Chopra and Kangna Ranaut an award each for Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress respectively , Madhur Bhandarkar thanked the Almighty. After going through the round of congratulations and dozens of Q&A sessions with media, he instinctively decided to visit Ajmer Sharif Dargah. He planned the travel with his close friends and associates for Sunday, 24th January, and offered a traditional and holy 'chaddar' at the dargah.
Says Madhur Bhandarkar, "It is with God's grace that I am having a successful run, both personally and professionally. With Fashion getting two National Awards, I couldn't thank God enough. I, then and there, decided to come to this serene place and offer my thanks to the one who has given all this success. I also prayed for all my fans, my audience and of course whole team of Fashion."
Meanwhile, awards for Priyanka and Kangna have only added to the ever increasing tally of National Awards that Madhur Bhandarkar films have gathered right from the days of Chandni Bar. So far, the filmmaker has an astonishing 11 National Awards attached to his films with majority of his films gaining recognition at the highest level.
Commenting on this major achievement, Madhur says, "I am very glad that my work is yet again appreciated. I believe National Award is the Oscar of India and there is no bigger achievement than this. I thank my fans, my audience, my technicians and all the critics, who give me the support to come up better than before every time." Also adding on his kind of cinema, Madhur says- "My movies are not explosive, maybe they just hold up a mirror to society. My movies are not judgmental, I just show what happens in our society, sometimes there could be a solution and sometimes there may be none. Life goes on."
Says Madhur Bhandarkar, "It is with God's grace that I am having a successful run, both personally and professionally. With Fashion getting two National Awards, I couldn't thank God enough. I, then and there, decided to come to this serene place and offer my thanks to the one who has given all this success. I also prayed for all my fans, my audience and of course whole team of Fashion."
Meanwhile, awards for Priyanka and Kangna have only added to the ever increasing tally of National Awards that Madhur Bhandarkar films have gathered right from the days of Chandni Bar. So far, the filmmaker has an astonishing 11 National Awards attached to his films with majority of his films gaining recognition at the highest level.
Commenting on this major achievement, Madhur says, "I am very glad that my work is yet again appreciated. I believe National Award is the Oscar of India and there is no bigger achievement than this. I thank my fans, my audience, my technicians and all the critics, who give me the support to come up better than before every time." Also adding on his kind of cinema, Madhur says- "My movies are not explosive, maybe they just hold up a mirror to society. My movies are not judgmental, I just show what happens in our society, sometimes there could be a solution and sometimes there may be none. Life goes on."
Kangna, Farhan, Arjun, Madhur on their winning at National Awards
Kangna Ranaut's parents burst into tears when they heard their daughter had won the National award for best supporting actress in Fashion at the 56th National Awards announced on Saturday.
Said Kangna on Saturday, "There's a mini-celebration in my house, though my parents were crying when they heard about it. At 23, I seem to have cracked the highest cultural award for the country. What more can I do? I should just pack up and go back to my home in Himachal now with my parents."
Kangna was also very happy for her co-star Priyanka Chopra who is the USA. "I messaged her to say how happy I was for both of us."
Equally euphoric was the mood at Arjun Rampal's home. "I didn't know about me winning the National award for Rock On until the executive producer of my new under-production film Stepmom called and told me to put on the television. Winning a National Award is a dream come true. It's also scary because now I've to go further up the scale of excellence. Everything I do will be compared with Rock On."
Farhan Akhtar the leading man and producer of Rock On which won the National Award for Best Hindi Film was amazed at how far the film had come. "I had now put Rock On completely at the back of my mind; what with all the hectic promotion I'm doing for my new film Karthik Calling Karthik, pre-production to my sequel of Don and my sister Zoya's next film. Suddenly the National Award reminded me of how far Rock On had come. I'm very proud of my director Abhishek Kapoor and my co-star Arjun Rampal. Incidentally, debut films are lucky for me. I made my directorial debut with Dil Chahta Hai and my acting debut in Rock On."
Madhur Bhandarkar who personally didn't win any National Award was very happy for his two actresses in Fashion. "I'm really happy for Priyanka Chopra and Kangna Ranaut. Altogether this makes 11 National Awards for my cinema."
Said Kangna on Saturday, "There's a mini-celebration in my house, though my parents were crying when they heard about it. At 23, I seem to have cracked the highest cultural award for the country. What more can I do? I should just pack up and go back to my home in Himachal now with my parents."
Kangna was also very happy for her co-star Priyanka Chopra who is the USA. "I messaged her to say how happy I was for both of us."
Equally euphoric was the mood at Arjun Rampal's home. "I didn't know about me winning the National award for Rock On until the executive producer of my new under-production film Stepmom called and told me to put on the television. Winning a National Award is a dream come true. It's also scary because now I've to go further up the scale of excellence. Everything I do will be compared with Rock On."
Farhan Akhtar the leading man and producer of Rock On which won the National Award for Best Hindi Film was amazed at how far the film had come. "I had now put Rock On completely at the back of my mind; what with all the hectic promotion I'm doing for my new film Karthik Calling Karthik, pre-production to my sequel of Don and my sister Zoya's next film. Suddenly the National Award reminded me of how far Rock On had come. I'm very proud of my director Abhishek Kapoor and my co-star Arjun Rampal. Incidentally, debut films are lucky for me. I made my directorial debut with Dil Chahta Hai and my acting debut in Rock On."
Madhur Bhandarkar who personally didn't win any National Award was very happy for his two actresses in Fashion. "I'm really happy for Priyanka Chopra and Kangna Ranaut. Altogether this makes 11 National Awards for my cinema."
Aamir Khan and A.Rahman to receive Padma Bhushan
It's the height of award season with Bollywood actors being showered with recognition from all the fronts, the latest being the actors Aamir Khan and Saif Ali Khan.
Following the National Awards that were recently announced, Bollywood Hungama has now learnt that Bollywood's 'Mr. Perfectionist' Aamir Khan has been awarded the Padma Bhushan. The actor will be awarded with the same on the 60th Republic Day celebration for his outstanding contribution to Hindi cinema.
Speaking about the win Aamir says, "I am so happy to receive this unique honour. The first thing that comes to my mind is my mother's smiling face. Indeed this has been a good day for me. First my film Peepli Live gets a superb response here at the Sundance Film Festival, and then I receive this wonderful news of receiving the Padma Bhushan. I only wish I was back home right now. I would like to thank God for these happy moments, and all my fans and well wishers for their love, support and good wishes." Besides Aamir, music maestros A. R. Rahman and Ilaiyaraja have also been awarded with the Padma Bhushan.
If that wasn't enough, the ageless diva Rekha, chotte nawab Saif Ali Khan and celebrated sound engineer Resul Pokutty have been awarded the Padma Shree for their significant contribution to cinema.
Also, yesteryear actress Zohra Sehgal will be honoured with the Padma Vibhushan.
The awards will be presented to the winners on Republic Day tomorrow.
Following the National Awards that were recently announced, Bollywood Hungama has now learnt that Bollywood's 'Mr. Perfectionist' Aamir Khan has been awarded the Padma Bhushan. The actor will be awarded with the same on the 60th Republic Day celebration for his outstanding contribution to Hindi cinema.
Speaking about the win Aamir says, "I am so happy to receive this unique honour. The first thing that comes to my mind is my mother's smiling face. Indeed this has been a good day for me. First my film Peepli Live gets a superb response here at the Sundance Film Festival, and then I receive this wonderful news of receiving the Padma Bhushan. I only wish I was back home right now. I would like to thank God for these happy moments, and all my fans and well wishers for their love, support and good wishes." Besides Aamir, music maestros A. R. Rahman and Ilaiyaraja have also been awarded with the Padma Bhushan.
If that wasn't enough, the ageless diva Rekha, chotte nawab Saif Ali Khan and celebrated sound engineer Resul Pokutty have been awarded the Padma Shree for their significant contribution to cinema.
Also, yesteryear actress Zohra Sehgal will be honoured with the Padma Vibhushan.
The awards will be presented to the winners on Republic Day tomorrow.
Friday, January 22, 2010
Deepika's career is still buzzing
When you’re super confident, gorgeous and as successful as Deepika Padukone, then you don’t waste time crying over split relationships. You hold your head on your tall frame high and just glide like a diva. That is exactly what Deepika is doing.
She refutes talk that she has immersed herself neck-deep in work because she wants no time to think. Laughing aloud she says, “Love Aaj Kal is the second most successful film of 2009 after 3 Idiots. Saif Ali Khan, Imtiaz Ali, Dinesh Vijjan and I didn’t feel the need to put out advertisements in newspapers saying ours is one of the biggest hits simply because it is a huge hit. And, it so happens that by virtue of this super-hit, I’ve bagged some super duper assignments.”
This year will have Deepika in Ashutosh Gowarikar’s Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Se, Pradeep Sarkar’s next with Neil Nitin Mukesh, Farhan Akhtar’s Kartik Calling Kartik and Sajid Khan's Houseful.
Besides these she also starts work on a romantic film with Imran Khan produced by Kunal Kohli. “With so much happening, I’ve no time to even breathe,” says the actress, who in two years since her debut is knocking on the doors of Bollywood’s czarinas. “I’m so glad that I got this opporutnity to work with Ashutosh,” she says. “He is awesome.”
She is fortunate that her roles are also varied. If she will prance in a bikini around Akshay Kumar in Houseful, then she’ll probably walk away with top acting honours for her role as a revolutionary in Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Se with Abhishek. In the midst of this packed action, is there anything more she’d like? “Well, I’d like to do a movie with Salman Khan,” she smiles. “And Aamir Khan too.” Ok, and now please don’t put her wish under a scanner and think she’s sending out coded messages to anyone out there.
After working with the top bracket — Shah Rukh Khan, Saif Ali Khan, Akshay Kumar and Abhishek Bachchan, Deepika would but naturally veer in the direction of Salman or perhaps even Aamir.
She refutes talk that she has immersed herself neck-deep in work because she wants no time to think. Laughing aloud she says, “Love Aaj Kal is the second most successful film of 2009 after 3 Idiots. Saif Ali Khan, Imtiaz Ali, Dinesh Vijjan and I didn’t feel the need to put out advertisements in newspapers saying ours is one of the biggest hits simply because it is a huge hit. And, it so happens that by virtue of this super-hit, I’ve bagged some super duper assignments.”
This year will have Deepika in Ashutosh Gowarikar’s Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Se, Pradeep Sarkar’s next with Neil Nitin Mukesh, Farhan Akhtar’s Kartik Calling Kartik and Sajid Khan's Houseful.
Besides these she also starts work on a romantic film with Imran Khan produced by Kunal Kohli. “With so much happening, I’ve no time to even breathe,” says the actress, who in two years since her debut is knocking on the doors of Bollywood’s czarinas. “I’m so glad that I got this opporutnity to work with Ashutosh,” she says. “He is awesome.”
She is fortunate that her roles are also varied. If she will prance in a bikini around Akshay Kumar in Houseful, then she’ll probably walk away with top acting honours for her role as a revolutionary in Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Se with Abhishek. In the midst of this packed action, is there anything more she’d like? “Well, I’d like to do a movie with Salman Khan,” she smiles. “And Aamir Khan too.” Ok, and now please don’t put her wish under a scanner and think she’s sending out coded messages to anyone out there.
After working with the top bracket — Shah Rukh Khan, Saif Ali Khan, Akshay Kumar and Abhishek Bachchan, Deepika would but naturally veer in the direction of Salman or perhaps even Aamir.
Sarah Jane Dias is the heroine of Crooked
Abhishek Bachchan has found his match in former Miss India-Universe, Sarah Jane Dias. Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani, after a hundred or so auditions, zeroed in on Sarah, the same lost-and-found childhood sweetheart of Saif Ali Khan in an ad that saw real love Kareena Kapoor too. Now, Sarah will be playing the lead opposite Abhishek in the film Crooked which will be shot in Greece.
“I had not gone for the audition for the main lead. But they liked me and asked me to audition for it,” blushed Sarah, who bowled Farhan and Ritesh with her performance and walked out with a three-film deal. “There were rumours that Aishwarya walked out of the film. That’s not true because we didn’t approach her, we were just thinking about the possibility,” informed Ritesh, who is happy with his new find. “There are three different phases which Sarah is going to be playing in the film. She’s got a terrific spark in her. Sarah’s fantastic,” said the producer about his actress who will be directed by Abhinay Deo.
Sarah’s from Muscat who came to Mumbai and became a VJ, then went on to be a model and won the Miss India contest in 2007. But then she disappeared from the scene. “People called me a loser. They criticised me for my weight gain. But what nobody knew was that I had become immobile due to an accident that damaged my knee. I couldn’t walk and so the weight gain. It was painful, but I didn’t give up,” said the girl, who is determined to prove all her critics wrong. “I’m taking diction classes from Shabana Azmi and learning the finer nuances of acting. I haven’t met Abhishek yet but we’ll most probably be doing a workshop together,” said Sarah, who is taking each step cautiously now.
“I had not gone for the audition for the main lead. But they liked me and asked me to audition for it,” blushed Sarah, who bowled Farhan and Ritesh with her performance and walked out with a three-film deal. “There were rumours that Aishwarya walked out of the film. That’s not true because we didn’t approach her, we were just thinking about the possibility,” informed Ritesh, who is happy with his new find. “There are three different phases which Sarah is going to be playing in the film. She’s got a terrific spark in her. Sarah’s fantastic,” said the producer about his actress who will be directed by Abhinay Deo.
Sarah’s from Muscat who came to Mumbai and became a VJ, then went on to be a model and won the Miss India contest in 2007. But then she disappeared from the scene. “People called me a loser. They criticised me for my weight gain. But what nobody knew was that I had become immobile due to an accident that damaged my knee. I couldn’t walk and so the weight gain. It was painful, but I didn’t give up,” said the girl, who is determined to prove all her critics wrong. “I’m taking diction classes from Shabana Azmi and learning the finer nuances of acting. I haven’t met Abhishek yet but we’ll most probably be doing a workshop together,” said Sarah, who is taking each step cautiously now.
Deepika Padukone and Katrina Kaif meet
What happens when Ranbir Kapoor’s ‘close friend’ Katrina Kaif bumps into his ex-flame Deepika Padukone?
It happened at a shoot recently and both girls exchanged cold stares before Katrina walked out, with her nose in the air. Needless to say, acknowledging each other was not on their agenda.
It may be recalled that Ranbir Kapoor became really close friends with Katrina Kaif while he was dating Deepika.
On Wednesday, Deepika was doing a magazine photo shoot in the open area of Mehboob Studio. An eyewitness reveals, “Deepika had come with Farhan Akhtar for her photo shoot. Somewhere around late afternoon, Deepika was giving her solo shots in the garden area of the studio. While Deepika was doing her last minute touch-up, there was pin drop silence and all eyes swivelled to the entrance. It was Katrina Kaif, who had accidentally walked in, thinking it was the venue where she was called for her shoot.”
The eyewitness continues, “Dressed in a short white skirt and a pink tee, Katrina walked in and froze for a second. Deepika, who was standing some distance away, saw her. Both had a few seconds of eye contact, and Katrina immediately took a U-turn and walked away.”
It’s hardly surprising given their history. A source says, “Although Ranbir and Deepika are not seeing each other any more, the latter still has issues with Katrina. It was the growing friendship between Katrina and Ranbir which marked an end to her relationship.”
Both Katrina and Deepika did not reply to our message till the time of going to press
It happened at a shoot recently and both girls exchanged cold stares before Katrina walked out, with her nose in the air. Needless to say, acknowledging each other was not on their agenda.
It may be recalled that Ranbir Kapoor became really close friends with Katrina Kaif while he was dating Deepika.
On Wednesday, Deepika was doing a magazine photo shoot in the open area of Mehboob Studio. An eyewitness reveals, “Deepika had come with Farhan Akhtar for her photo shoot. Somewhere around late afternoon, Deepika was giving her solo shots in the garden area of the studio. While Deepika was doing her last minute touch-up, there was pin drop silence and all eyes swivelled to the entrance. It was Katrina Kaif, who had accidentally walked in, thinking it was the venue where she was called for her shoot.”
The eyewitness continues, “Dressed in a short white skirt and a pink tee, Katrina walked in and froze for a second. Deepika, who was standing some distance away, saw her. Both had a few seconds of eye contact, and Katrina immediately took a U-turn and walked away.”
It’s hardly surprising given their history. A source says, “Although Ranbir and Deepika are not seeing each other any more, the latter still has issues with Katrina. It was the growing friendship between Katrina and Ranbir which marked an end to her relationship.”
Both Katrina and Deepika did not reply to our message till the time of going to press
Salman Khan is still dating Katrina Kaif
Getting true and straight forward answers was something actress and TV show host Koel Purie managed when she interviewed Salman Khan on her couch.
In a recently shot episode of Koel’s show ‘On The Couch’, Salman finally admitted publicly that he is dating Katrina Kaif and that the rumours of their split are baseless.
When asked if he was dating Kat, Salman replied with an emphatic “yes”. Not only that, Sallu was in a candid mood and also answered questions about Shahrukh Khan and his ex-girlfriend Aishwarya Rai without losing his temper, though he was a bit uncomfortable.
However, all this wasn’t easy, as a source tells a daily: “Salman wasn’t ready for the interview, but Koel grilled him on his set at Mehboob Studio. She asked him all sorts of questions, some of which were controversial. But Salman answered each and every one of them in monosyllables.”
The show also had public asking questions from Salman. When asked whether he will work with his ex-girlfriend Ash, he just said ‘no’. And on SRK he said that their lives were going in opposite directions and that they would never be friends again.
Catch the episode this Saturday on TV.
In a recently shot episode of Koel’s show ‘On The Couch’, Salman finally admitted publicly that he is dating Katrina Kaif and that the rumours of their split are baseless.
When asked if he was dating Kat, Salman replied with an emphatic “yes”. Not only that, Sallu was in a candid mood and also answered questions about Shahrukh Khan and his ex-girlfriend Aishwarya Rai without losing his temper, though he was a bit uncomfortable.
However, all this wasn’t easy, as a source tells a daily: “Salman wasn’t ready for the interview, but Koel grilled him on his set at Mehboob Studio. She asked him all sorts of questions, some of which were controversial. But Salman answered each and every one of them in monosyllables.”
The show also had public asking questions from Salman. When asked whether he will work with his ex-girlfriend Ash, he just said ‘no’. And on SRK he said that their lives were going in opposite directions and that they would never be friends again.
Catch the episode this Saturday on TV.
Nana Patekar selects Deepika Padukone for his next film
The angry talented man of Bollywood Nana Patekar is all set to direct his second film and along with the script he has also finalized the lead actress for his film. She is none other than the Om Shanti Om star Deepika Padukone.
Talking to reporters at a press meet of his first Kannada film ‘Yaksha’, Nana says, “I have already written the script of the film and have selected Deepika Padukone to play the lead role.” However, Nana confirms only about Deeps but regarding the other actors, he still has to take a final call.“I haven’t yet finalized other artists and technicians for the film,” he says.
Nana's debut film as a director was Prahar in the year 1991, where he showed top actress of that time Madhuri Dixit without any make-up. The movie also received rave reviews. Now, after 19 years he is prepared to wield the megaphone again and is going to visit his native village soon to start the preparations for the film. It sounds like the movie is going to have a rural set up.
Talking to reporters at a press meet of his first Kannada film ‘Yaksha’, Nana says, “I have already written the script of the film and have selected Deepika Padukone to play the lead role.” However, Nana confirms only about Deeps but regarding the other actors, he still has to take a final call.“I haven’t yet finalized other artists and technicians for the film,” he says.
Nana's debut film as a director was Prahar in the year 1991, where he showed top actress of that time Madhuri Dixit without any make-up. The movie also received rave reviews. Now, after 19 years he is prepared to wield the megaphone again and is going to visit his native village soon to start the preparations for the film. It sounds like the movie is going to have a rural set up.
Sonam Kapoor nominated for Asian Award
The gorgeous Sonam Kapoor adds another feather to her cap. The Bollywood actress is the only Indian to have been nominated for the fourth Asian Film Awards.
The daughter of Anil Kapoor has been nominated in the best newcomer category for her role as ‘Bittu’ in movie Delhi 6, says a statement after the nominations were announced on Thursday at Hongkong. Sonam will be competing with the other four contenders from China and Korea. The award ceremony will take place on March 22.
However, the announcement came as a real surprise because Sonam made her Bollywood debut in the year 2007 with Saawariya. Released last year, ‘Delhi 6’ is her second film.
The daughter of Anil Kapoor has been nominated in the best newcomer category for her role as ‘Bittu’ in movie Delhi 6, says a statement after the nominations were announced on Thursday at Hongkong. Sonam will be competing with the other four contenders from China and Korea. The award ceremony will take place on March 22.
However, the announcement came as a real surprise because Sonam made her Bollywood debut in the year 2007 with Saawariya. Released last year, ‘Delhi 6’ is her second film.
Veer Movie Review
"Veer" released worldwide today and is one of the most awaited movies of 2010. After "Chance Pe Dance", "Dulha Mil Gaya" and "Pyaar Impossible" has failed, the Bollywood industry is hungry for a fresh new hit. Although, the film has got bad reviews. Here is one of the reviews from Bollywood Hungama:
VEER drives home a few hard facts...
* No amount of gloss can substitute for an engaging story.
* Not all directors are capable of pulling off a period film.
* No star - howsoever strong his rankings are - can infuse life in a comatose script.
Everyone's awaiting VEER with bated breath. The film industry will get another breather if VEER goes the 3 IDIOTS way at the box-office. The junta will have one more fascinating genre to look forward to, if VEER appeals to them. But your hopes go crashing as reel after reel of VEER unfurl.
Salman Khan [who has been credited as the story writer of VEER] takes TARAS BULBA, adds GLADIATOR, CONAN THE BARBARIAN, TROY, TITANIC and even KRANTI [the end is a straight lift of Manoj Kumar's Dilip Kumar starrer] and comes up with this khichdi which gets unpalatable after a point.
VEER is about a warrior and at the same time, it's a love story too. Sadly, neither does it evoke any patriotism, nor does the love story make your heart go dhak-dhak.
The writing [screenplay: Shaktimaan Talwar, Shailesh Verma] is so fragile that one is mentally exhausted by the time this marathon movie finally reaches its finale. Of course, Salman's star power tries hard to salvage the situation, but window dressing doesn't help if the store has nothing to offer.
Final word? You have to be a veer to sit through VEER. Colossal disappointment!
As the British enslave India with their devious Divide and Rule policy, kings and nawabs fall to their guile and cunning schemes and entrust their precious kingdom to the foreigners. Except for the brave Pindaris, who prefer death to dishonour and will fight to their last breath to save their land.
The bravest, the toughest, the strongest of the Pindaris is Veer [Salman Khan]. As Veer takes on the might of the British Empire, he also has to fight the conniving King of Madavgarh [Jackie Shroff] as well his own jealous tribesmen. At stake is his love for princess Yashodhara [Zarine Khan], daughter of his sworn enemy. At stake is his thirst to avenge his father's dishonour.
VEER has it all - great stars, opulent and majestic sets, adrenaline pumping action scenes, but no soul [read script]. The movie begins with a bang, but the moment the story shifts to London, it crashes!
Frankly, it's a screenplay of convenience. Salman meets the woman of his dreams within minutes of reaching London and that looks so unreal. You try to digest it and move on to the next scene and lo! The damsel studies in the same college that our hero has enrolled in. Now that looks fake!
The sequence at the interval is interesting, although it remains a mystery how Puru Raaj Kumar gets to know of Salman's identity. At this point, Salman becomes a killing machine, slaughters more than a dozen people in the hostel campus [including a few gora soldiers] and conveniently escapes from London with a badly injured brother [played by Sohail]. Now that is taking it too far.
The second hour goes on and on and on, emphasising on unfulfilled promises, seething anger and revenge, love and freedom and frankly, you are least bothered by now. In fact, you lose interest in the proceedings. Period. The climax is so long drawn and more of an anti-climax, while the ending is bizarre and unintentionally funny.
Director Anil Sharma fails to deliver. That's the bitter truth. The project had everything going in its favour, but alas, Sharma and his writers make a complete mess of the story. Sajid-Wajid's music is melodious, but why repeat one song ['Surili Ankhiyon Wali'] again and again? The background score [Monty] is top notch. Gopal Shah's cinematography is splendid. Tinu Verma's action scenes are dynamic and in fact, the saving grace of VEER. The production design [art: Sanjay Dhabade] give an authentic feel of the bygone era.
VEER rides on Salman's star power, but even his hardcore fans will be disappointed by this movie. Zarine Khan resembles Katrina Kaif, but wears one expression all through. Mithun is okay, while Jackie does his bit well. Sohail Khan irritates. Puru Raaj Kumar and Aryan Vaid get no scope. Neena Gupta is as usual. The English actors are stereotype.
On the whole, VEER proves the age-old adage true: All that glitters is not gold. The film may open very well at single screens thanks to Salman's popularity and the hype surrounding the film and may also enjoy a healthy extended weekend [Tuesday, 26th January is a holiday], but given its exorbitant costs and poor merits, VEER will face an uphill task to recover its costs. This one's a monumental disappointment!
VEER drives home a few hard facts...
* No amount of gloss can substitute for an engaging story.
* Not all directors are capable of pulling off a period film.
* No star - howsoever strong his rankings are - can infuse life in a comatose script.
Everyone's awaiting VEER with bated breath. The film industry will get another breather if VEER goes the 3 IDIOTS way at the box-office. The junta will have one more fascinating genre to look forward to, if VEER appeals to them. But your hopes go crashing as reel after reel of VEER unfurl.
Salman Khan [who has been credited as the story writer of VEER] takes TARAS BULBA, adds GLADIATOR, CONAN THE BARBARIAN, TROY, TITANIC and even KRANTI [the end is a straight lift of Manoj Kumar's Dilip Kumar starrer] and comes up with this khichdi which gets unpalatable after a point.
VEER is about a warrior and at the same time, it's a love story too. Sadly, neither does it evoke any patriotism, nor does the love story make your heart go dhak-dhak.
The writing [screenplay: Shaktimaan Talwar, Shailesh Verma] is so fragile that one is mentally exhausted by the time this marathon movie finally reaches its finale. Of course, Salman's star power tries hard to salvage the situation, but window dressing doesn't help if the store has nothing to offer.
Final word? You have to be a veer to sit through VEER. Colossal disappointment!
As the British enslave India with their devious Divide and Rule policy, kings and nawabs fall to their guile and cunning schemes and entrust their precious kingdom to the foreigners. Except for the brave Pindaris, who prefer death to dishonour and will fight to their last breath to save their land.
The bravest, the toughest, the strongest of the Pindaris is Veer [Salman Khan]. As Veer takes on the might of the British Empire, he also has to fight the conniving King of Madavgarh [Jackie Shroff] as well his own jealous tribesmen. At stake is his love for princess Yashodhara [Zarine Khan], daughter of his sworn enemy. At stake is his thirst to avenge his father's dishonour.
VEER has it all - great stars, opulent and majestic sets, adrenaline pumping action scenes, but no soul [read script]. The movie begins with a bang, but the moment the story shifts to London, it crashes!
Frankly, it's a screenplay of convenience. Salman meets the woman of his dreams within minutes of reaching London and that looks so unreal. You try to digest it and move on to the next scene and lo! The damsel studies in the same college that our hero has enrolled in. Now that looks fake!
The sequence at the interval is interesting, although it remains a mystery how Puru Raaj Kumar gets to know of Salman's identity. At this point, Salman becomes a killing machine, slaughters more than a dozen people in the hostel campus [including a few gora soldiers] and conveniently escapes from London with a badly injured brother [played by Sohail]. Now that is taking it too far.
The second hour goes on and on and on, emphasising on unfulfilled promises, seething anger and revenge, love and freedom and frankly, you are least bothered by now. In fact, you lose interest in the proceedings. Period. The climax is so long drawn and more of an anti-climax, while the ending is bizarre and unintentionally funny.
Director Anil Sharma fails to deliver. That's the bitter truth. The project had everything going in its favour, but alas, Sharma and his writers make a complete mess of the story. Sajid-Wajid's music is melodious, but why repeat one song ['Surili Ankhiyon Wali'] again and again? The background score [Monty] is top notch. Gopal Shah's cinematography is splendid. Tinu Verma's action scenes are dynamic and in fact, the saving grace of VEER. The production design [art: Sanjay Dhabade] give an authentic feel of the bygone era.
VEER rides on Salman's star power, but even his hardcore fans will be disappointed by this movie. Zarine Khan resembles Katrina Kaif, but wears one expression all through. Mithun is okay, while Jackie does his bit well. Sohail Khan irritates. Puru Raaj Kumar and Aryan Vaid get no scope. Neena Gupta is as usual. The English actors are stereotype.
On the whole, VEER proves the age-old adage true: All that glitters is not gold. The film may open very well at single screens thanks to Salman's popularity and the hype surrounding the film and may also enjoy a healthy extended weekend [Tuesday, 26th January is a holiday], but given its exorbitant costs and poor merits, VEER will face an uphill task to recover its costs. This one's a monumental disappointment!
Rumors amuses Ayesha Takia
Was Ayesha Takia spotted in a burqa after marriage? Have her in-laws clamped down on her freedom to act in films? These are the rumours that one hears in the film industry. Ayesha Takia is more amused than exasperated by the attempts being made to put her into the retired-actress' bracket after marriage.
The word being spread is that Ayesha has married into an overly conservative family where acting is perhaps not permitted. "I'm amazed at the games people play. The other day someone asked me if I've started wearing a burqa after marriage," laughs Ayesha. "Far from feeling clamped I now have the freedom to do a lot more things than before. My parents-in-law are cool about my business ventures with my husband and my film career."
"And that's so ridiculous," says Ayesha with a laugh. "Farhan and I went around together for five years before marriage. So there goes the conservative card. Suddenly after we make it official, I hear all kind of rumours including the fact that I'm out of Revathy Varma's film and that I've been replaced by some other actress."
Says Ayesha, "I've never felt the need to grab roles. I've got what I wanted. And it will continue that way. I always felt Wanted would be the first big hit of my career. Ironical that it should come now after my marriage. And I've got more to do in it than the leading lady in a Salman vehicle would be expected to. In fact I was blown away by the way I was presented. And why should I give up a dream role like the one in Revathy's film? She's new to the Mumbai industry and quite nervous about these controversies."
Revathy Varma and Ayesha's mother are very close friends. "Revathy comes home regularly. We all laugh at the way the casting is being questioned by people who probably have nothing better to do."
Ayesha now intends to focus on new business venture. "I started working in films when I was only 15. And I just realized I've been at it since then. I need to venture out. It's time to try out new things in life. Today a young woman has so many opportunities to do so many things. I'm fortunate to have a name and a face that's recognizable. I want to use that to my advantage and start a clothing line by the middle of next year."
Ayesha, her mom and sister Natasha are going to be partners in the garment business. Laughs Ayesha, "All three of us are very excited about doing the clothes line. We love fashion it's basically for the girls in the family."
Ayesha's husband Farhan will be there to help his wife and her family with the clothes line. "Yes, Farhan's there to help us women in every way possible."
Marriage hasn't changed Ayesha. "I'm the same. I always will be. Post-marriage I'm exactly the same. That could be because I was seeing Farhan from long before.
Psychologically, we were married long before. It feels like we were serious about each other forever."
The word being spread is that Ayesha has married into an overly conservative family where acting is perhaps not permitted. "I'm amazed at the games people play. The other day someone asked me if I've started wearing a burqa after marriage," laughs Ayesha. "Far from feeling clamped I now have the freedom to do a lot more things than before. My parents-in-law are cool about my business ventures with my husband and my film career."
"And that's so ridiculous," says Ayesha with a laugh. "Farhan and I went around together for five years before marriage. So there goes the conservative card. Suddenly after we make it official, I hear all kind of rumours including the fact that I'm out of Revathy Varma's film and that I've been replaced by some other actress."
Says Ayesha, "I've never felt the need to grab roles. I've got what I wanted. And it will continue that way. I always felt Wanted would be the first big hit of my career. Ironical that it should come now after my marriage. And I've got more to do in it than the leading lady in a Salman vehicle would be expected to. In fact I was blown away by the way I was presented. And why should I give up a dream role like the one in Revathy's film? She's new to the Mumbai industry and quite nervous about these controversies."
Revathy Varma and Ayesha's mother are very close friends. "Revathy comes home regularly. We all laugh at the way the casting is being questioned by people who probably have nothing better to do."
Ayesha now intends to focus on new business venture. "I started working in films when I was only 15. And I just realized I've been at it since then. I need to venture out. It's time to try out new things in life. Today a young woman has so many opportunities to do so many things. I'm fortunate to have a name and a face that's recognizable. I want to use that to my advantage and start a clothing line by the middle of next year."
Ayesha, her mom and sister Natasha are going to be partners in the garment business. Laughs Ayesha, "All three of us are very excited about doing the clothes line. We love fashion it's basically for the girls in the family."
Ayesha's husband Farhan will be there to help his wife and her family with the clothes line. "Yes, Farhan's there to help us women in every way possible."
Marriage hasn't changed Ayesha. "I'm the same. I always will be. Post-marriage I'm exactly the same. That could be because I was seeing Farhan from long before.
Psychologically, we were married long before. It feels like we were serious about each other forever."
Ranbir Kapoor and Genelia D'Souza endorse Virgin Mobile
This pair was just waiting in the wings to happen, as he is the Gen-Next Superstar whereas she is the Gen-Next Cinderella. We are indeed talking about the fresh pairing of Ranbir Kapoor and Genelia D'Souza. While everyone has been waiting with bated breath for some filmmaker to cast the two, they have been signed up by a huge brand for endorsement!
As per our sources, Telecom major Virgin Mobile has lapped up this pair as their brand ambassadors to promote their GSM services. Apparently, the pair has been signed up for an astronomical sum of money. Our source also added that the responsibility of making the TVCs for the same have been assigned to one of the topnotch names in the industry.
We are sure that everyone out there is waiting with bated breath to see the chemistry between this 'Saawariyaa' and Jaane Tu's Aditi, even if it is for an ad!
As per our sources, Telecom major Virgin Mobile has lapped up this pair as their brand ambassadors to promote their GSM services. Apparently, the pair has been signed up for an astronomical sum of money. Our source also added that the responsibility of making the TVCs for the same have been assigned to one of the topnotch names in the industry.
We are sure that everyone out there is waiting with bated breath to see the chemistry between this 'Saawariyaa' and Jaane Tu's Aditi, even if it is for an ad!
Anil Kapoor surprises critics for 24
The American press has gone ga-ga over Anil Kapoor. The Los Angeles Times writes, "The most promising (actor) this season is Omar Hassan (Anil Kapoor), president of the Islamic Republic of Kamistan, who is negotiating a peace treaty with U.S. President Allison Taylor (Cherry Jones). He's regal and decent."
Says the Entertainment Weekly, "The dapper Hassan, played by the wonderful Anil Kapoor, who really should go by the name of Fantastic Sam because of his incredible head of hair..."
And the Hollywood Reporter just can't get enough of our Kapoor. "The best addition (to this season's episodes) is Anil Kapoor, best known stateside for his role as the "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire" host in Slumdog Millionaire." He plays an idealized version a Middle East leader with an Elvis-style pompadour on the verge of signing a historic peace agreement. It's a painfully standard 24 part, yet he owns each scene he's in."
Anil Kapoor is known to be such a thorough professional. So why are his co-stars in his just-premiered American series 24 upset with him? Anil, you see, got invited on the prestigious Today Show where none of the 24 actors, not even Keifer Sutherland, has ever been invited.
Explains Anil, "You see, 24 is series by Fox. And the Today Show is on a rival channel NBC. No actor from a Fox show is every invited on the Today Show. I guess I was an exception because after Slumdog Millionaire I'm seen to represent the Indian diasporas in the West. It's a humbling place to be in."
And Anil is trying hard to be humble. When Anil Kapoor left for LA last week, he had promised his family in Mumbai that he would bring back four episodes of 24 which premiered in New York. But he came back empty-handed.
Anil laughs in embarrassment, "I had promised them. And I'm sure Fox would've given the episodes to me. In fact they gave the first four episodes to every journalist beforehand with a secrecy clause. So I could've easily asked for the same because my daughters Sonam and Rhea and my brother Sanjay were all keen to see my television debut. But I just couldn't ask. I was too shy. Can you believe it?!"
And now the only way Sonam and the rest of the family gets to see Anil Kapoor's debut on 24 is if they download the episodes. Says Anil, "I believe the episodes can be downloaded. Also 24 will be telecast on our channel AXN, but few months later. I think episodes featuring me would be telecast much sooner."
Anil, in fact, is making efforts to bring the series to Indian viewers simultaneously with the rest of the world. Anil is very happy with the way his television debut was received. "It was overwhelming. I made sure that the Indian media was also invited on the red carpet. The impact of my appearance on 24 is yet to be gauged. But I guess the show will add Asian eyeballs to the already-popular series. See, you've to understand television in the US is not the same as television in India. There're big stars on American television who have actually refused to do movies."
Anil is now committed to do a film or two in India. "I've a commitment with Ashtavinayak for two films. Indra Kumar and Apoorva Lakhia are working on two ideas which I really like. I may do one, or both depending on how the projects scripts shape up. But before that I've two films No Problem and Aisha as a producer. I need to concentrate on that."
As a parting shot I ask Anil how he manages to remain so fit at his age. "Aha! I was always lean and thin, much before it became fashionable. The secret formula is healthy living, positive thinking, no late nights and plenty of work."
Says the Entertainment Weekly, "The dapper Hassan, played by the wonderful Anil Kapoor, who really should go by the name of Fantastic Sam because of his incredible head of hair..."
And the Hollywood Reporter just can't get enough of our Kapoor. "The best addition (to this season's episodes) is Anil Kapoor, best known stateside for his role as the "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire" host in Slumdog Millionaire." He plays an idealized version a Middle East leader with an Elvis-style pompadour on the verge of signing a historic peace agreement. It's a painfully standard 24 part, yet he owns each scene he's in."
Anil Kapoor is known to be such a thorough professional. So why are his co-stars in his just-premiered American series 24 upset with him? Anil, you see, got invited on the prestigious Today Show where none of the 24 actors, not even Keifer Sutherland, has ever been invited.
Explains Anil, "You see, 24 is series by Fox. And the Today Show is on a rival channel NBC. No actor from a Fox show is every invited on the Today Show. I guess I was an exception because after Slumdog Millionaire I'm seen to represent the Indian diasporas in the West. It's a humbling place to be in."
And Anil is trying hard to be humble. When Anil Kapoor left for LA last week, he had promised his family in Mumbai that he would bring back four episodes of 24 which premiered in New York. But he came back empty-handed.
Anil laughs in embarrassment, "I had promised them. And I'm sure Fox would've given the episodes to me. In fact they gave the first four episodes to every journalist beforehand with a secrecy clause. So I could've easily asked for the same because my daughters Sonam and Rhea and my brother Sanjay were all keen to see my television debut. But I just couldn't ask. I was too shy. Can you believe it?!"
And now the only way Sonam and the rest of the family gets to see Anil Kapoor's debut on 24 is if they download the episodes. Says Anil, "I believe the episodes can be downloaded. Also 24 will be telecast on our channel AXN, but few months later. I think episodes featuring me would be telecast much sooner."
Anil, in fact, is making efforts to bring the series to Indian viewers simultaneously with the rest of the world. Anil is very happy with the way his television debut was received. "It was overwhelming. I made sure that the Indian media was also invited on the red carpet. The impact of my appearance on 24 is yet to be gauged. But I guess the show will add Asian eyeballs to the already-popular series. See, you've to understand television in the US is not the same as television in India. There're big stars on American television who have actually refused to do movies."
Anil is now committed to do a film or two in India. "I've a commitment with Ashtavinayak for two films. Indra Kumar and Apoorva Lakhia are working on two ideas which I really like. I may do one, or both depending on how the projects scripts shape up. But before that I've two films No Problem and Aisha as a producer. I need to concentrate on that."
As a parting shot I ask Anil how he manages to remain so fit at his age. "Aha! I was always lean and thin, much before it became fashionable. The secret formula is healthy living, positive thinking, no late nights and plenty of work."
Katrina Kaif is the reason of Veer
A lot has been written about how angry Katrina is about the fact that she is not a part of Salman Khan's upcoming VEER and that she is quite irritated with the publicity seeking acts of the team via her look-alike Zarine Khan. However, what we are about to disclose will make all the gossip mongers hide under the carpet and those hoping for a Salman-Katrina split, highly disappointed!
Well, VEER happened because of Katrina and this fact was disclosed by none other than the director of the film Anil Sharma. Not many will remember that Katrina Kaif made a small guest appearance in Anil Sharma's three Deol starrer, APNE, and her relationship with Anil goes way back to those days. In fact it was Katrina who introduced Salman to Anil as she wanted them to work together.
Initially Anil wanted to make a light hearted comedy with Salman but the brave heart would have none of it and he requested Anil to look into the script of VEER, which excited Anil so much that he decided to take on the mantle of direction.
The much awaited VEER is all set to storm the theatres this Friday!
Well, VEER happened because of Katrina and this fact was disclosed by none other than the director of the film Anil Sharma. Not many will remember that Katrina Kaif made a small guest appearance in Anil Sharma's three Deol starrer, APNE, and her relationship with Anil goes way back to those days. In fact it was Katrina who introduced Salman to Anil as she wanted them to work together.
Initially Anil wanted to make a light hearted comedy with Salman but the brave heart would have none of it and he requested Anil to look into the script of VEER, which excited Anil so much that he decided to take on the mantle of direction.
The much awaited VEER is all set to storm the theatres this Friday!
"De Dhana Dan" in Oscar Library
Bollywood superstar and all-rounder Akshay Kumar is humbled and thrilled at the request for a copy of the smash hit comedy release of 2009, DE DANA DAN, from the Library of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
This could be the second such honour for Akshay as the script for NAMASTEY LONDON is already a part of the Library archives. It means that students, filmmakers, writers and actors will have access to the scripts for research purposes. It's another huge accomplishment for the entire Bollywood film industry and demonstrates its global reach and success.
DE DANA DAN united the infamous HERA PHERI gang once more, teaming up directing talent Priyadarshan with Master of Comedy, Akshay. The film tells the story of two friends, struggling to make ends meet but dreaming of riches and facing ultimatums from their girlfriends to earn as much money as they can in return for their hands in marriage, causing them to go to extreme lengths to fulfill their respective love's wishes. A backfired kidnapping, mistaken identities, a hired assassin and an assortment of characters met along the way ranging from a Chinese don to a young, frustrated wife made DE DANA DAN one of 2009's most popular Bollywood entertainers.
This could be the second such honour for Akshay as the script for NAMASTEY LONDON is already a part of the Library archives. It means that students, filmmakers, writers and actors will have access to the scripts for research purposes. It's another huge accomplishment for the entire Bollywood film industry and demonstrates its global reach and success.
DE DANA DAN united the infamous HERA PHERI gang once more, teaming up directing talent Priyadarshan with Master of Comedy, Akshay. The film tells the story of two friends, struggling to make ends meet but dreaming of riches and facing ultimatums from their girlfriends to earn as much money as they can in return for their hands in marriage, causing them to go to extreme lengths to fulfill their respective love's wishes. A backfired kidnapping, mistaken identities, a hired assassin and an assortment of characters met along the way ranging from a Chinese don to a young, frustrated wife made DE DANA DAN one of 2009's most popular Bollywood entertainers.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Adnan Sami marries again
Yes, Adnan Sami is getting married... in an undisclosed part of Europe on January 31 to German girl Roya Faryabi.
“All our family members are going to be at the wedding. I’d like all my friends from Mumbai to accompany me. Unfortunately, there’s no time for them to make travel arrangements. So I’ll have a large wedding reception in Mumbai as soon as Roya and I return.”
At the moment, Jermaine Jackson and his wife are on the guest list. The groom-to-be will be rushing in and out of court hearings and bridal fittings, barely bidding adieu to wife number 2 Sabah Galadari, before tying the knot with wife number 3, who according to Adnan, is perfect wife material.
“I was going through the worst phase of my life when I met Roya. I lost my grandfather, then my father. She held my hand during my darkest hours while I was fighting the ugliest court battle with my former wife. Roya is very family-oriented. More than the fact that she loves me, I love her for understanding the importance of family ties. Roya respects my mother.” Most important of all Adnan’s son Azaan gets along like a house of fire with his new stepmom-to-be.
Talking about Roya, Adnan says, “I wouldn’t say she came into my life suddenly. We got to know each other gradually. After having gone through what I have, I was in no mood to jump into a new relationship. But it didn’t take me long to realise she was the woman for me.”
Roya will move residence to Mumbai with Adnan right after the wedding. “She is a qualified engineer in Munich and works in the communication services. The organisation has branches all over the world. They’re looking at opening a branch in Mumbai now that Roya is shifting to the city.”
Adnan wants his wife to continue working after marriage. “Isn’t it enough sacrifice that she’s leaving her family behind to join me in Mumbai? I don’t want her to give up her career.”
“All our family members are going to be at the wedding. I’d like all my friends from Mumbai to accompany me. Unfortunately, there’s no time for them to make travel arrangements. So I’ll have a large wedding reception in Mumbai as soon as Roya and I return.”
At the moment, Jermaine Jackson and his wife are on the guest list. The groom-to-be will be rushing in and out of court hearings and bridal fittings, barely bidding adieu to wife number 2 Sabah Galadari, before tying the knot with wife number 3, who according to Adnan, is perfect wife material.
“I was going through the worst phase of my life when I met Roya. I lost my grandfather, then my father. She held my hand during my darkest hours while I was fighting the ugliest court battle with my former wife. Roya is very family-oriented. More than the fact that she loves me, I love her for understanding the importance of family ties. Roya respects my mother.” Most important of all Adnan’s son Azaan gets along like a house of fire with his new stepmom-to-be.
Talking about Roya, Adnan says, “I wouldn’t say she came into my life suddenly. We got to know each other gradually. After having gone through what I have, I was in no mood to jump into a new relationship. But it didn’t take me long to realise she was the woman for me.”
Roya will move residence to Mumbai with Adnan right after the wedding. “She is a qualified engineer in Munich and works in the communication services. The organisation has branches all over the world. They’re looking at opening a branch in Mumbai now that Roya is shifting to the city.”
Adnan wants his wife to continue working after marriage. “Isn’t it enough sacrifice that she’s leaving her family behind to join me in Mumbai? I don’t want her to give up her career.”
Shahrukh Khan's AMU visit postponed
The Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) has postponed the visit of Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan due to cold and fog in the capital.
Shah Rukh was scheduled to visit the university Jan 23 to hold "interactive sessions" with the varsity students. Noted Urdu poet and lyricist Javed Akhtar and versatile actress and social activist Shabana Azmi were also to accompany him and participate in the interactive sessions.
According to varsity officials, a fresh date for his visit to AMU will be announced later.
Shah Rukh was scheduled to visit the university Jan 23 to hold "interactive sessions" with the varsity students. Noted Urdu poet and lyricist Javed Akhtar and versatile actress and social activist Shabana Azmi were also to accompany him and participate in the interactive sessions.
According to varsity officials, a fresh date for his visit to AMU will be announced later.
"Paathshala" trailer open with Veer
The trailer of Shahid Kapoor starrer "Paathshaala" will be unveiled with Salman Khan's much-publicised patriotic period film "Veer", which is releasing Friday.
Also starring Nana Patekar and Ayesha Takia, "Paathshaala" highlights the various issues faced by children in schools, said a press release. After "3 Idiots", "Paathshaala" could be an eye opener for educationists and parents.
Directed by Milind Ukey, "Paathshaala" also stars popular child artists Swini Khara and Avika Gor, apart from Ali Haji and Dwij Narendra Yadav.
The movie, scheduled for an April release, is being presented by Eros International, and produced by Shaira Khan of Paperdoll Entertainment. It has been penned by choreographer Ahmed Khan.
Also starring Nana Patekar and Ayesha Takia, "Paathshaala" highlights the various issues faced by children in schools, said a press release. After "3 Idiots", "Paathshaala" could be an eye opener for educationists and parents.
Directed by Milind Ukey, "Paathshaala" also stars popular child artists Swini Khara and Avika Gor, apart from Ali Haji and Dwij Narendra Yadav.
The movie, scheduled for an April release, is being presented by Eros International, and produced by Shaira Khan of Paperdoll Entertainment. It has been penned by choreographer Ahmed Khan.
What "fight" going on between Shilpa Shetty and Freida Pinto?
The launch of Louis Vuitton store in Mumbai saw many hot beauties, and one among them was Freida Pinto. Surprisingly the Mumbai girl in one of her rare appearances was seen among the bevy of other B- town actresses, but chose not to pose with Shilpa Shetty. Why so?
According to a tabloid, when a photographer requested Freida to pose with Shilpa for a picture, she said she didn’t have enough time. Nevertheless, the girl was seen posing together with other actresses, as Lara Dutta, Malaika Arora, Dia Mirza, Sameera Reddy and many others were present at the launch. But next to her was Genelia D’Souza, not Shilpa.
A source tells the tabloid, “There was a conscious attempt on her part not to be clicked with B-town actresses. When asked to pose with Shilpa she just turned it down and moved the other way.” Is the reason the fact that Shilpa is also popular in UK like Freida!
However, the girl has a photo clicked with Heroes’ star Sendhil Ramamurthy, who is in town for a film.
According to a tabloid, when a photographer requested Freida to pose with Shilpa for a picture, she said she didn’t have enough time. Nevertheless, the girl was seen posing together with other actresses, as Lara Dutta, Malaika Arora, Dia Mirza, Sameera Reddy and many others were present at the launch. But next to her was Genelia D’Souza, not Shilpa.
A source tells the tabloid, “There was a conscious attempt on her part not to be clicked with B-town actresses. When asked to pose with Shilpa she just turned it down and moved the other way.” Is the reason the fact that Shilpa is also popular in UK like Freida!
However, the girl has a photo clicked with Heroes’ star Sendhil Ramamurthy, who is in town for a film.
Salman Khan join Republic Day parade
In his endeavour to promote his new film Veer, Salman Khan is going all-out to prove he's the new-age Manoj Kumar of our cinema
Suddenly, as it were, Salman has transformed into the perennial patriot promoting nationalism and brotherhood at any given cause.
According to sources close to the Khan, Salman will now be a part of the Republic Day parade on 26 January to not only participate in the event but also to comment on the whole concept of freedom and independence in the contemporary context.
According to a source, "This is Salman's golden opportunity to clean up his image. He wants to wipe out his anti-establishment image. He has made up with the media. Now he wants to project himself as someone who cares deeply for his country."
Producer Vijay Galani confirms Salman's presence and participation at the Republic Day parade in Delhi on January 26. Says Galani, "Salman will be seen live on a Hindi channel at the Republic Day parade talking about what freedom and independence mean to Indians."
Salman has been preparing extensively to hold forth in Delhi on 26 January. Says a close friend of the actor, "Salman is tired of being portrayed as the enfant-terrible. He wants a clean image. He's told his family and friends he'd like to set the right example for his younger fans."
The theme of Salman's Republic Day comments in Delhi would be, 'Do Not Misuse Your Freedom.' And a very close friend of Salman says, "When he'll talk about not misusing freedom Salman would be talking about himself as well."
Suddenly, as it were, Salman has transformed into the perennial patriot promoting nationalism and brotherhood at any given cause.
According to sources close to the Khan, Salman will now be a part of the Republic Day parade on 26 January to not only participate in the event but also to comment on the whole concept of freedom and independence in the contemporary context.
According to a source, "This is Salman's golden opportunity to clean up his image. He wants to wipe out his anti-establishment image. He has made up with the media. Now he wants to project himself as someone who cares deeply for his country."
Producer Vijay Galani confirms Salman's presence and participation at the Republic Day parade in Delhi on January 26. Says Galani, "Salman will be seen live on a Hindi channel at the Republic Day parade talking about what freedom and independence mean to Indians."
Salman has been preparing extensively to hold forth in Delhi on 26 January. Says a close friend of the actor, "Salman is tired of being portrayed as the enfant-terrible. He wants a clean image. He's told his family and friends he'd like to set the right example for his younger fans."
The theme of Salman's Republic Day comments in Delhi would be, 'Do Not Misuse Your Freedom.' And a very close friend of Salman says, "When he'll talk about not misusing freedom Salman would be talking about himself as well."
Katrina Kaif is in Tees Maar Khan
The news that has been doing the rounds for sometime now is about the search for the heroine of Farah Khan and Shirish Kunder's flick Tees Maar Khan. The film has been in news since its announcement. First it was Akshay replacing SRK as the lead, followed by the 'namesake' casting coup, wherein Akshaye Khanna was roped in for the film.
As far as the heroine for the film was concerned, the rumor mills went overboard with names that ranged from Sonam Kapoor to Deepika Padukone and likes. But, according to Bollywood Hungama's confirmed sources it is neither Sonam, nor Deepika, because it is Katrina Kaif! When we spoke to Shirish to confirm the news, all that he said was, "I cannot say anything right now. I can only speak about it in a couple of days." Our source also went onto add that the trio of Akshay, Katrina and Farah have shot a cover page shoot for a daily (which is supposed to be out in a couple of days) to announce the coming on board of Katrina as Tees Maar Khan's leading lady.
With Katrina coming on board, expectations are bound to be sky-high about Tees Maar Khan, considering the hit track record that Akki-Katz have delivered in the past, like Namastey London, Welcome and Singh Is Kinng to name a few. What remains to be seen is that will Tees Maar Khan follow suit or will it create a new track record?
As far as the heroine for the film was concerned, the rumor mills went overboard with names that ranged from Sonam Kapoor to Deepika Padukone and likes. But, according to Bollywood Hungama's confirmed sources it is neither Sonam, nor Deepika, because it is Katrina Kaif! When we spoke to Shirish to confirm the news, all that he said was, "I cannot say anything right now. I can only speak about it in a couple of days." Our source also went onto add that the trio of Akshay, Katrina and Farah have shot a cover page shoot for a daily (which is supposed to be out in a couple of days) to announce the coming on board of Katrina as Tees Maar Khan's leading lady.
With Katrina coming on board, expectations are bound to be sky-high about Tees Maar Khan, considering the hit track record that Akki-Katz have delivered in the past, like Namastey London, Welcome and Singh Is Kinng to name a few. What remains to be seen is that will Tees Maar Khan follow suit or will it create a new track record?
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Friends come to support Salman Khan
Looks like Salman Khan and Aamir Khan’s dosti is going to soon be a part of Bollywood’s legendary tales.
The actors aren’t just lavish with their praise and compliments for each other, but their gestures speak a lot about the equation they share. Though Salman couldn’t attend the special screening of his forthcoming film Eros International’s Veer due to prior commitments, buddy Aamir made it a point to watch the movie. Not just Aamir, but his wife Kiran Rao was also spotted at the screening and brother Faisal Khan, too, put in a rare appearance. Salman’s sister Alvira along with hubby Atul Agnihotri were also present. Katrina Kaif, dressed in casual clothes, seemed to be in a mood to relax.
Producer Vijay Galani and director Anil Sharma were excited about having Salman’s near and dear ones watching the movie. Also spotted at the event was Sonakshi Sinha, Shatrughan Sinha’s daughter, who’ll soon be making her debut opposite Salman in a movie.
The actors aren’t just lavish with their praise and compliments for each other, but their gestures speak a lot about the equation they share. Though Salman couldn’t attend the special screening of his forthcoming film Eros International’s Veer due to prior commitments, buddy Aamir made it a point to watch the movie. Not just Aamir, but his wife Kiran Rao was also spotted at the screening and brother Faisal Khan, too, put in a rare appearance. Salman’s sister Alvira along with hubby Atul Agnihotri were also present. Katrina Kaif, dressed in casual clothes, seemed to be in a mood to relax.
Producer Vijay Galani and director Anil Sharma were excited about having Salman’s near and dear ones watching the movie. Also spotted at the event was Sonakshi Sinha, Shatrughan Sinha’s daughter, who’ll soon be making her debut opposite Salman in a movie.
Sonakshi Sinha gets Mausam
Sonakshi Sinha, veteran actor Shatrughan Sinha’s daughter, seems to be the flavour of the season.
Although her debut film Dabangg with Salman Khan is yet to be completed, she is already on a roll. She has been signed for her second film by Boney Kapoor and the latest dope is that she has also bagged Pankaj Kapur’s love story, Mausam, opposite Shahid Kapoor.
The hush-hush meeting between the film’s producer Sheetal Talwar and Sonakshi and her mother Punam Sinha took place at the Sinhas’ residence in Khar on Monday evening. Apparently, the producer was simply bowled over by the actress.
Sheetal Talwar has already approved her for Mausam. “She is a stunning girl. Such grace and charm. She is going to be a big star. She reminds us of the young Rekha,” says Talwar appreciatively.
Punam says, “Yes, we met the Mausam producer Sheetal Talwar. He did seem to like her immensely. Both my husband and I have the highest regard for Pankaj Kapurji as an actor. If he is directing a film, it has to be special. We can’t wait for Sonakshi to work with Pankajji and Shahid.”
Although her debut film Dabangg with Salman Khan is yet to be completed, she is already on a roll. She has been signed for her second film by Boney Kapoor and the latest dope is that she has also bagged Pankaj Kapur’s love story, Mausam, opposite Shahid Kapoor.
The hush-hush meeting between the film’s producer Sheetal Talwar and Sonakshi and her mother Punam Sinha took place at the Sinhas’ residence in Khar on Monday evening. Apparently, the producer was simply bowled over by the actress.
Sheetal Talwar has already approved her for Mausam. “She is a stunning girl. Such grace and charm. She is going to be a big star. She reminds us of the young Rekha,” says Talwar appreciatively.
Punam says, “Yes, we met the Mausam producer Sheetal Talwar. He did seem to like her immensely. Both my husband and I have the highest regard for Pankaj Kapurji as an actor. If he is directing a film, it has to be special. We can’t wait for Sonakshi to work with Pankajji and Shahid.”
Priyanka Chopra not in Italian Job
Abbas Mustan almost managed a casting coup, as Katrina Kaif and Priyanka Chopra were to share the same frame in their remake of The Italian Job.
But we now hear that Priyanka has lost out on the role.
Buzz is that it is a consequence of the actress opting out of Rohan Sippy’s new film, starring Abhishek. Priyanka thought she would be cast opposite Abhishek, but ended up with South star Rana Daggubati instead. So, that’s when the actress decided to make an exit.
Perhaps Bachchan Jr, who is also part of the Italian Job, is not too pleased with her decision? Whatever the reason, Priyanka has lost out on The Italian Job remake as well.
A source says, “Priyanka was keen to work in Rohan Sippy’s film. They had worked together in Bluffmaster and wanted to be paired with him again, but it turned out to be a role with South star Rana Daggubati. So she chose to opt out, citing date problems. Rohan was aghast and grumbled about her to his friend Abhishek. This, in turn, upset Abhishek. Apparently, the actress chose to instead work in Vishal Bhardwaj’s Ek Bataa Saat.”
This incident was the last straw in the Abhishek-Priyanka relationship, which was already distressed. The source adds, “The cracks started developing in the Abhishek-Priyanka relationship over the last year. It all started with a tiff they had backstage over a performance. Then, Aishwarya Rai was miffed with Priyanka over a remark made by her on stage while accepting an award at a function. Since then, things have turned sour between the two. However, the final nail in the coffin was her backing out of the Rohan project, upsetting Abhishek to no end.”
The Italian Job stars Abhishek Bachchan, Neil Nitin Mukesh, Kunal Kapoor and Akshaye Khanna. Commenting on the star cast, the source says, “Abbas Mustan’s Italian Job is a huge film. The film’s casting has been in process since a long time. To avoid further issues, the makers have officially announced only Katrina Kaif’s name as of now. They are now considering Preity Zinta to replace Priyanka. Preity will make her comeback with this film in a completely new and sexy avatar.”
Priyanka’s manager was noncommittal. He says, “Nothing has been finalised with regards to The Italian Job. She has only signed Vishal Bhardwaj’s film at the moment. As for Rohan’s film, Priyanka has not even heard the script, so how can she opt out of the film?”
But we now hear that Priyanka has lost out on the role.
Buzz is that it is a consequence of the actress opting out of Rohan Sippy’s new film, starring Abhishek. Priyanka thought she would be cast opposite Abhishek, but ended up with South star Rana Daggubati instead. So, that’s when the actress decided to make an exit.
Perhaps Bachchan Jr, who is also part of the Italian Job, is not too pleased with her decision? Whatever the reason, Priyanka has lost out on The Italian Job remake as well.
A source says, “Priyanka was keen to work in Rohan Sippy’s film. They had worked together in Bluffmaster and wanted to be paired with him again, but it turned out to be a role with South star Rana Daggubati. So she chose to opt out, citing date problems. Rohan was aghast and grumbled about her to his friend Abhishek. This, in turn, upset Abhishek. Apparently, the actress chose to instead work in Vishal Bhardwaj’s Ek Bataa Saat.”
This incident was the last straw in the Abhishek-Priyanka relationship, which was already distressed. The source adds, “The cracks started developing in the Abhishek-Priyanka relationship over the last year. It all started with a tiff they had backstage over a performance. Then, Aishwarya Rai was miffed with Priyanka over a remark made by her on stage while accepting an award at a function. Since then, things have turned sour between the two. However, the final nail in the coffin was her backing out of the Rohan project, upsetting Abhishek to no end.”
The Italian Job stars Abhishek Bachchan, Neil Nitin Mukesh, Kunal Kapoor and Akshaye Khanna. Commenting on the star cast, the source says, “Abbas Mustan’s Italian Job is a huge film. The film’s casting has been in process since a long time. To avoid further issues, the makers have officially announced only Katrina Kaif’s name as of now. They are now considering Preity Zinta to replace Priyanka. Preity will make her comeback with this film in a completely new and sexy avatar.”
Priyanka’s manager was noncommittal. He says, “Nothing has been finalised with regards to The Italian Job. She has only signed Vishal Bhardwaj’s film at the moment. As for Rohan’s film, Priyanka has not even heard the script, so how can she opt out of the film?”
Shahid Kapoor and Anushka Sharma kiss in film
Apparently Anushka Sharma has locked lips with Shahid Kapoor not once, but thrice for her forthcoming YRF film, directed by actor-turned-director Parmeet Sethi.
While most girls would happily kiss the young star, she wasn’t turning cartwheels at the idea. A source says, “The kisses are not the brush-of-the-lips type. They are full-on smooches.”
Reportedly, Anushka shared great chemistry with Shahid when they were shooting for this film in the States. They had gelled very well and seemed to be enjoying each other’s company very much. And we don’t blame YRF or Parmeet Sethi if they decided on the three smooches because they wanted to exploit that chemistry and have it translated on screen as well.
But Anushka was not comfortable. “Parmeet had to do a lot of cajoling. Finally, he managed to convince her,” our source said.
What about Shahid? Was he okay with kissing Anushka? “Oh, he had no problem,” our source revealed.
As on date, the entire shooting of the film has been completed. The film is in the editing stages. Let’s hope that all the three smooches go unedited in the final print.
While most girls would happily kiss the young star, she wasn’t turning cartwheels at the idea. A source says, “The kisses are not the brush-of-the-lips type. They are full-on smooches.”
Reportedly, Anushka shared great chemistry with Shahid when they were shooting for this film in the States. They had gelled very well and seemed to be enjoying each other’s company very much. And we don’t blame YRF or Parmeet Sethi if they decided on the three smooches because they wanted to exploit that chemistry and have it translated on screen as well.
But Anushka was not comfortable. “Parmeet had to do a lot of cajoling. Finally, he managed to convince her,” our source said.
What about Shahid? Was he okay with kissing Anushka? “Oh, he had no problem,” our source revealed.
As on date, the entire shooting of the film has been completed. The film is in the editing stages. Let’s hope that all the three smooches go unedited in the final print.
Shahrukh Khan strips for fans
The special episode of ‘Music Ka Mahamuqabla’ on Star Plus witnessed ample skin-show courtesy Shahrukh Khan who took off his shirt and flaunted his bare chest to the cameras and the ecstatically screaming fans among the audiences.
The superstar along with director Karan Johar was promoting their upcoming film My Name Is Khan on the music reality show in which all the contestants paid tribute to SRK by singing songs from his films only.
What we learn from the goss that has trickled out from the sets is that when the song ‘Deewangi Deewangi’ from SRK’s hit film Om Shanti Om played, the superstar got up on a table and danced and, further rooted by the audience, took off his shirt and flashed his abs.
That doubtlessly was the high-point of the show which will be telecast on the coming Saturday.
Well, a few weeks back SRK had joked that he wants to be a pornstar. Now, he takes off his shirt on national television.
The superstar along with director Karan Johar was promoting their upcoming film My Name Is Khan on the music reality show in which all the contestants paid tribute to SRK by singing songs from his films only.
What we learn from the goss that has trickled out from the sets is that when the song ‘Deewangi Deewangi’ from SRK’s hit film Om Shanti Om played, the superstar got up on a table and danced and, further rooted by the audience, took off his shirt and flashed his abs.
That doubtlessly was the high-point of the show which will be telecast on the coming Saturday.
Well, a few weeks back SRK had joked that he wants to be a pornstar. Now, he takes off his shirt on national television.
Rakhi Sawant suing the censor boards
Look who’s taking on the Censor Board! None other than the spitfire siren Rakhi Sawant, who’s fuming red because the board recently issued a decree to delete or bleep out the word ‘kamine’ from her latest song ‘Bhoot’.
As reported by a daily, the hot girl has decided to file a legal suit against the censor board along with IshQ Bector, as the duo feel the board’s action is unjust. The song ‘Bhoot’ is from Rakhi and IshQ’s latest album ‘Jhagde’ and the main chorus of the song starts with the line, ‘Kamine tera bhoot chad gaya re.’
Now, Rakhi’s point is, “When they can pass an entire film called Kaminey, what sense does it make to delete the word ‘kamine’ from our video, and that too, without giving us any reason whatsoever.” Rakhi is co-producing ‘Jhagde’ with IshQ, who is also the singer and composer of the entire album. He also feels that by deleting the word ‘kamine’, the impact of the song has been “killed” and this has even “sabotaged” the album sales.
Surprisingly, the Board seems to have problem only with the video as they had passed the ‘promos’ of the track that has the same ‘kamine’ chorus. Why they banned the word for the video is a mystery.
As reported by a daily, the hot girl has decided to file a legal suit against the censor board along with IshQ Bector, as the duo feel the board’s action is unjust. The song ‘Bhoot’ is from Rakhi and IshQ’s latest album ‘Jhagde’ and the main chorus of the song starts with the line, ‘Kamine tera bhoot chad gaya re.’
Now, Rakhi’s point is, “When they can pass an entire film called Kaminey, what sense does it make to delete the word ‘kamine’ from our video, and that too, without giving us any reason whatsoever.” Rakhi is co-producing ‘Jhagde’ with IshQ, who is also the singer and composer of the entire album. He also feels that by deleting the word ‘kamine’, the impact of the song has been “killed” and this has even “sabotaged” the album sales.
Surprisingly, the Board seems to have problem only with the video as they had passed the ‘promos’ of the track that has the same ‘kamine’ chorus. Why they banned the word for the video is a mystery.
Will Aamir Khan play Munnabhai???
Trustworthy sources informed Bollywoodhungama that Rajkumar Hirani has decided to embrace the biggest challenge of his career. Reportedly, the director of MUNNABHAI MBBS, LAGE RAHO MUNNABHAI and 3 IDIOTS has decided to cast Aamir Khan as Munna and Sharman Joshi as Circuit, in place of Sanjay Dutt and Arshad Warsi, respectively, for his new film MUNNABHAI CHALE AMREEKA.
The news was received with shock and astonishment by the loyal fans of the Munnabhai franchise.
Aamir Khan, who never reacts to gossip, did clarify on this issue to this writer, before leaving for the U.S. "I am shocked. I wish to clarify that there's not an iota of truth to it. Yes, I would love to work with Rajkumar Hirani again and again, since I enjoyed working with him in 3 IDIOTS, but the truth is we haven't discussed any new project yet," Aamir tells me.
But didn't he express his willingness to portray Munnabhai when he heard the one-line story of MUNNABHAI CHALE AMREEKA? "That's completely untrue! I have no clue what it's all about, nor has Raju [Hirani] narrated me its one-liner. I distinctly recall, I hugged Sanju after I watched MUNNABHAI MBBS. He was incredible in that film. When I think of Munna, I can't think of anyone except Sanju. For me, Sanju is Munna," Aamir states.
Meanwhile, Aamir has clarified that he hasn't signed any new film yet. What about Anurag Kashyap's next film? "I haven't signed any film. Not Anurag's film either. Right now, I would like to focus on my three home-productions before I start shooting any film. PEEPLI LIVE will arrive first, followed by DELHI BELLY and then Kiran's DHOBI GHAAT, which stars Prateek Babbar and me. This film would release towards the end of the year. But I plan to listen to new scripts after three months," Aamir sets the record straight.
Will DHOBI GHAAT have a Christmas release like TAARE ZAMEEN PAR, GHAJINI and 3 IDIOTS? Aamir smiles, "I haven't decided on that yet. But DHOBI GHAAT wouldn't have a wide release like GHAJINI or 3 IDIOTS, that's for sure."
The news was received with shock and astonishment by the loyal fans of the Munnabhai franchise.
Aamir Khan, who never reacts to gossip, did clarify on this issue to this writer, before leaving for the U.S. "I am shocked. I wish to clarify that there's not an iota of truth to it. Yes, I would love to work with Rajkumar Hirani again and again, since I enjoyed working with him in 3 IDIOTS, but the truth is we haven't discussed any new project yet," Aamir tells me.
But didn't he express his willingness to portray Munnabhai when he heard the one-line story of MUNNABHAI CHALE AMREEKA? "That's completely untrue! I have no clue what it's all about, nor has Raju [Hirani] narrated me its one-liner. I distinctly recall, I hugged Sanju after I watched MUNNABHAI MBBS. He was incredible in that film. When I think of Munna, I can't think of anyone except Sanju. For me, Sanju is Munna," Aamir states.
Meanwhile, Aamir has clarified that he hasn't signed any new film yet. What about Anurag Kashyap's next film? "I haven't signed any film. Not Anurag's film either. Right now, I would like to focus on my three home-productions before I start shooting any film. PEEPLI LIVE will arrive first, followed by DELHI BELLY and then Kiran's DHOBI GHAAT, which stars Prateek Babbar and me. This film would release towards the end of the year. But I plan to listen to new scripts after three months," Aamir sets the record straight.
Will DHOBI GHAAT have a Christmas release like TAARE ZAMEEN PAR, GHAJINI and 3 IDIOTS? Aamir smiles, "I haven't decided on that yet. But DHOBI GHAAT wouldn't have a wide release like GHAJINI or 3 IDIOTS, that's for sure."
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
"Ishqiya" is just too much
The trailer of Ishqiya, which has a splattering of foul language and has an A certficate, is being shown in many theatres along with Ken Ghosh's latest film Chance pe Dance, which has a U certificate.
The language has made movie going families cringe. Says a source, "Chance pe Dance draws a lot of kids to the theatres. Naturally, their parents are very upset about them seeing promos liberally peppered with abusive language. They may not have minded it if the trailer was the same which is being shown on television, because that version does not have cuss words."
Explaining why Ishqiya had two trailers, one for theatres and the other for television, Censor Board Regional Officer Vinayak Azad said, "We can't have a promo with filthy language being shown in the drawing rooms. We have a sense of responsibility."
But can action be taken for screening the less palatable trailer during Chance pe Dance? Azad said emphatically, "No theatre is supposed to show the theatrical trailer of Ishqiya in a U or even a U/A movie. That trailer is permitted for screening only in an A film. It's a complete violation of the act. The police can take action."
However, Azad said that he is not sure if the producers of Ishqiya (Vishal Bhardwaj and Shemaroo) or Chance pe Dance (UTV) can be blamed for this. "Lekin theatres to definitely galat kar rahen hain agar Ishqiya ka trailer Chance pe Dance mein dikha rahe hain."
Manoj Desai (of Gaiety-Galaxy), for one, claimed that he was in the dark about what version of the trailer was being screened inside his theatres. He asked for time and called back to confirm the story, "Yes, we were showing the Ishqiya trailer with Chance pe Dance. I was aware that we had the Ishqiya trailer, but I hadn't seen it. I didn't know that it contained such explicit material."
Desai promised that he would pull it out with immediate effect. "I have told my staff to take it off at once."
The language has made movie going families cringe. Says a source, "Chance pe Dance draws a lot of kids to the theatres. Naturally, their parents are very upset about them seeing promos liberally peppered with abusive language. They may not have minded it if the trailer was the same which is being shown on television, because that version does not have cuss words."
Explaining why Ishqiya had two trailers, one for theatres and the other for television, Censor Board Regional Officer Vinayak Azad said, "We can't have a promo with filthy language being shown in the drawing rooms. We have a sense of responsibility."
But can action be taken for screening the less palatable trailer during Chance pe Dance? Azad said emphatically, "No theatre is supposed to show the theatrical trailer of Ishqiya in a U or even a U/A movie. That trailer is permitted for screening only in an A film. It's a complete violation of the act. The police can take action."
However, Azad said that he is not sure if the producers of Ishqiya (Vishal Bhardwaj and Shemaroo) or Chance pe Dance (UTV) can be blamed for this. "Lekin theatres to definitely galat kar rahen hain agar Ishqiya ka trailer Chance pe Dance mein dikha rahe hain."
Manoj Desai (of Gaiety-Galaxy), for one, claimed that he was in the dark about what version of the trailer was being screened inside his theatres. He asked for time and called back to confirm the story, "Yes, we were showing the Ishqiya trailer with Chance pe Dance. I was aware that we had the Ishqiya trailer, but I hadn't seen it. I didn't know that it contained such explicit material."
Desai promised that he would pull it out with immediate effect. "I have told my staff to take it off at once."
Saif Ali Khan wants a slimmer Kareena Kapoor
After all that heat and dust about Kareena Kapoor’s size zero frame, most of her fans - and even the actress herself - seem to agree that a few curves definitely don’t hurt. But unfortunately, no one seems to have asked beau Saif Ali Khan.
Apparently the Chote Nawab strongly subscribes to leaner-the-better school of thought. And let’s not forget, the romance between Bebo and Saif had blossomed on the sets of Tashan, when she was almost threatening to slip from size zero to practically negative territory.
So convinced is Saif that his girlfriend’s slimmer version was better, he’s not refraining from pressing his case with Kareena. Recently, both stars were present to perform at Chitrakoot Grounds in Andheri. “They had separate items. First Saif performed and then it was Kareena’s turn. But Saif stayed backstage all through Kareena’s dance.
Immediately after, as she was making her way backstage, Saif got up to applaud her. But as the couple made their way out together, he couldn’t resist telling her, “I think you need to lose some weight, yaar.”
It may be a private joke between the couple, because Kareena seemed to take it pretty sportingly. Even when Mumbai Mirror called up to ask what exactly had transpired that day, Bebo countered, “I am happy to have gained a bit. Don’t you think I needed to?”
Apparently the Chote Nawab strongly subscribes to leaner-the-better school of thought. And let’s not forget, the romance between Bebo and Saif had blossomed on the sets of Tashan, when she was almost threatening to slip from size zero to practically negative territory.
So convinced is Saif that his girlfriend’s slimmer version was better, he’s not refraining from pressing his case with Kareena. Recently, both stars were present to perform at Chitrakoot Grounds in Andheri. “They had separate items. First Saif performed and then it was Kareena’s turn. But Saif stayed backstage all through Kareena’s dance.
Immediately after, as she was making her way backstage, Saif got up to applaud her. But as the couple made their way out together, he couldn’t resist telling her, “I think you need to lose some weight, yaar.”
It may be a private joke between the couple, because Kareena seemed to take it pretty sportingly. Even when Mumbai Mirror called up to ask what exactly had transpired that day, Bebo countered, “I am happy to have gained a bit. Don’t you think I needed to?”
A.R Rahman at the Oscars
Last year, he created history by becoming the first Indian to win two Oscars on the same night. This year, Indian music composer A R Rahman might walk away with yet another golden man as his song ‘Na Na’ from the Hollywood movie ‘Couples Retreat’ has been shortlisted for nomination to the 82nd Academy Awards to be held in February.
However, it’s still a long way for the number to be nominated as 63 songs from other composers are also in the shortlist.
At the launch of the film’s soundtrack on Monday, Rahman revealed that ‘Na Na’ had been shortlisted and he expressed hope that the song would make it to the nomination list when the Oscar nominees are announced on Feburary 2.
“It is my first Hollywood film and it is good to have started with a comedy flick,” Rahman is quoted to have said.
Rahman had been flooded with offers from Hollywood after taking the west by storm with his Oscar winning track ‘Jai Ho’ from Slumdog Millionaire.
However, it’s still a long way for the number to be nominated as 63 songs from other composers are also in the shortlist.
At the launch of the film’s soundtrack on Monday, Rahman revealed that ‘Na Na’ had been shortlisted and he expressed hope that the song would make it to the nomination list when the Oscar nominees are announced on Feburary 2.
“It is my first Hollywood film and it is good to have started with a comedy flick,” Rahman is quoted to have said.
Rahman had been flooded with offers from Hollywood after taking the west by storm with his Oscar winning track ‘Jai Ho’ from Slumdog Millionaire.
Zarine Khan: Veer Is not a drawback
A firm believer in destiny, debutant Zarine Khan believes that she is plain lucky to have got a huge platform like VEER which is being describe as an 'epic love story' and hence raises her on a pedestal where the focus is on a leading lady as well. This is why when most of the leading ladies traditionally opt for a much tried and tested route by playing an urban cosmopolitan girl in their first films, Zarine didn't hesitate even one bit and agreed to do a period film.
"Maine kuch pehle se toh socha nahi tha or naa hi koyi plans they. Isliye there was no choice either", confesses Zarine who is not yet allowing any starry airs and attitude to set in, "Everything happened just so very unexpectedly. In any case I was never aspiring to be an actress and once I got a chance to work opposite Salman and that too in a project which he calls as his dream, the question of whether or not to look at VEER as a period film didn't arise at all."
Instead, she is looking at this entire opportunity as a silver lining because she has begun her acting career with something which is different from the rest of the world. "It's certainly not a drawback to start with a period film. On the contrary it's an advantage because while other girls get to play a part like this at a later stage in their career once they are thoroughly established, I have got this opportunity so early on. This is why I love to treat VEER as a feather in my cap."
"Maine kuch pehle se toh socha nahi tha or naa hi koyi plans they. Isliye there was no choice either", confesses Zarine who is not yet allowing any starry airs and attitude to set in, "Everything happened just so very unexpectedly. In any case I was never aspiring to be an actress and once I got a chance to work opposite Salman and that too in a project which he calls as his dream, the question of whether or not to look at VEER as a period film didn't arise at all."
Instead, she is looking at this entire opportunity as a silver lining because she has begun her acting career with something which is different from the rest of the world. "It's certainly not a drawback to start with a period film. On the contrary it's an advantage because while other girls get to play a part like this at a later stage in their career once they are thoroughly established, I have got this opportunity so early on. This is why I love to treat VEER as a feather in my cap."
"Chance Pe Dance" poor at box-office
Chance Pe Dance is said to be Shahid Kapoor’s worst film till now in terms of box office collection. As reported, in comparison to his previous films like Kismat Konnection and even the flop Dil Bole Hadippa, the movie’s first day collection was worst.
The movie just couldn’t take off during the weekend. Both Saturday and Sunday proved to be less profitable, showing no jump in the collections beyond Rs 6.25 crore. After the dismal Monday collection, ‘Chance Pe Dance’ is expected to add another Rs 2 crore approx from its first week.
On the other hand, public can’t get enough of the ‘idiots’. 3 Idiots has continued its magic at box office. The movie collected Rs 11 crore approx in its fourth weekend and is expected to earn Rs 18 crore by this week. And till now, the movie has done nearly Rs 177 crore business in India - now that’s a big figure.
This Friday, it’s Salman Khan starrer Veer for you.
The movie just couldn’t take off during the weekend. Both Saturday and Sunday proved to be less profitable, showing no jump in the collections beyond Rs 6.25 crore. After the dismal Monday collection, ‘Chance Pe Dance’ is expected to add another Rs 2 crore approx from its first week.
On the other hand, public can’t get enough of the ‘idiots’. 3 Idiots has continued its magic at box office. The movie collected Rs 11 crore approx in its fourth weekend and is expected to earn Rs 18 crore by this week. And till now, the movie has done nearly Rs 177 crore business in India - now that’s a big figure.
This Friday, it’s Salman Khan starrer Veer for you.
Tera Kya Hoga Johnny
What could be the worst that could happen to a film up for release? Horror of horrors, it finds itself on the Internet. Following an unfortunate trend where films find their way into the cyberspace before the release, Sudhir Mishra's Tera Kya Hoga Johnny has been uploaded on the video sharing site YouTube by unknown miscreants. And all this when the film - which was in the cans for almost 2 years - was slated for an early 2010 release.
The film stars Neil Nitin Mukesh, Soha Ali Khan, Kay Kay Menon and Shahana Goswami and street child Sikandar playing himself. The filmmakers had also recently announced plans of dubbing the film in English for the international audience.
When contacted Sudhir Mishra, who's directed iconic films like Is Raat Ki Subah Nahi and Hazaron Khwaishein Aisi, was unavailable for comment.
It is a malaise that indeed needs pondering... who puts these films out? The industry needs to watch out or indeed, Tera Kya Hoga?
The film stars Neil Nitin Mukesh, Soha Ali Khan, Kay Kay Menon and Shahana Goswami and street child Sikandar playing himself. The filmmakers had also recently announced plans of dubbing the film in English for the international audience.
When contacted Sudhir Mishra, who's directed iconic films like Is Raat Ki Subah Nahi and Hazaron Khwaishein Aisi, was unavailable for comment.
It is a malaise that indeed needs pondering... who puts these films out? The industry needs to watch out or indeed, Tera Kya Hoga?
"Ishqiya" gets an A certificate
Ishqiya with all its colourful expletives and sexually charged visuals was passed on Wednesday without any cuts with an 'A' certificate. A huge step forward for Hindi cinema which contains graphic language.
Says the film's director Abhishek Chaubhey, ''Frankly, I expected I'd be asked for some kind of an explanation for the language and content and why they were necessary. I had gone prepared with dossiers on every graphic word and shot. To my surprise, I wasn't asked for any explanation. I was given an 'Adults' certificate with no cuts at all. I guess it's a sign of how far censorship has come in our country.''
The censor board apparently baulked at some of the gaalis. But finally saw reason. Says the film's director, ''I never claimed the film was for children. The content is adult. So I've no problem with the 'A' certificate. I feel the profile of the audience is changing swiftly.''
Abhishek also hastens to add that the language is not as strong as people seem to think. ''It's not about creating shock value. It's the way these people in the small North Indian towns live their life.''
Says the film's director Abhishek Chaubhey, ''Frankly, I expected I'd be asked for some kind of an explanation for the language and content and why they were necessary. I had gone prepared with dossiers on every graphic word and shot. To my surprise, I wasn't asked for any explanation. I was given an 'Adults' certificate with no cuts at all. I guess it's a sign of how far censorship has come in our country.''
The censor board apparently baulked at some of the gaalis. But finally saw reason. Says the film's director, ''I never claimed the film was for children. The content is adult. So I've no problem with the 'A' certificate. I feel the profile of the audience is changing swiftly.''
Abhishek also hastens to add that the language is not as strong as people seem to think. ''It's not about creating shock value. It's the way these people in the small North Indian towns live their life.''
Monday, January 18, 2010
Aishwarya Rai taken out of Crooked
It was supposed to star his wife Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, but by the time Abhishek started shooting for Crooked on January 14, she had already opted out of it due to a date scramble. But Abhishek isn’t sulking.
“For Abhishek and Ash, the whole charm of doing another film together was to not be together. Crooked was supposed to cast them not as a pair, but in different segments,” says a very reliable source. Abhishek’s co-star in this film, directed by Abhinay Deo, is former Miss India Sarah Jane Dias.
As for Aishwarya, far from being Abhishek’s romantic interest, she was supposed to play his adversary. It was a role similar to what Kareena Kapoor will play in Sriram Raghavan’s Agent Vinod opposite Saif Ali Khan.
Crooked has four major leading ladies. Besides Sarah, there are Shahana Goswami (who shot to fame with the same banner’s Rock On!! last year), Gul Panag and pretty Pakistani actor Sonya Jehan.
The meaty and mysterious part of a cop on the trail of global criminals in this whodunit - which Aishwarya was to play - has gone to Sonya. She made her debut as Mumtaz Mahal in Akbar Khan’s Taj Mahal and was last seen as a 1950s actress modelled on her legendary grandmother Noor Jehan in Sudhir Mishra’s Khoya Khoya Chand. Sonya also has a role in Karan Johar’s My Name Is Khan.
Though Aishwarya and Sonya are worlds apart, according to a source it was the ‘fair complexion, light eyes and a certain air of hateur’ that clinched it for Sonya.
Producer Ritesh Sidhwani also confirmed that Sonya is part of the new cast. “But I can’t reveal what she’s playing. She’s tremendously beautiful and talented and suited the part she has been chosen for. We won’t call the film Crooked, though. That was the working title. And we’re looking for a new title urgently before the working title sticks.”
“For Abhishek and Ash, the whole charm of doing another film together was to not be together. Crooked was supposed to cast them not as a pair, but in different segments,” says a very reliable source. Abhishek’s co-star in this film, directed by Abhinay Deo, is former Miss India Sarah Jane Dias.
As for Aishwarya, far from being Abhishek’s romantic interest, she was supposed to play his adversary. It was a role similar to what Kareena Kapoor will play in Sriram Raghavan’s Agent Vinod opposite Saif Ali Khan.
Crooked has four major leading ladies. Besides Sarah, there are Shahana Goswami (who shot to fame with the same banner’s Rock On!! last year), Gul Panag and pretty Pakistani actor Sonya Jehan.
The meaty and mysterious part of a cop on the trail of global criminals in this whodunit - which Aishwarya was to play - has gone to Sonya. She made her debut as Mumtaz Mahal in Akbar Khan’s Taj Mahal and was last seen as a 1950s actress modelled on her legendary grandmother Noor Jehan in Sudhir Mishra’s Khoya Khoya Chand. Sonya also has a role in Karan Johar’s My Name Is Khan.
Though Aishwarya and Sonya are worlds apart, according to a source it was the ‘fair complexion, light eyes and a certain air of hateur’ that clinched it for Sonya.
Producer Ritesh Sidhwani also confirmed that Sonya is part of the new cast. “But I can’t reveal what she’s playing. She’s tremendously beautiful and talented and suited the part she has been chosen for. We won’t call the film Crooked, though. That was the working title. And we’re looking for a new title urgently before the working title sticks.”
Salman Khan won a race!
It was almost a Bollywood-like photo-finish at the Mahalaxmi Racecourse on Sunday afternoon as Salman Khan, riding the stallion Wild Rose, fought off a stiff challenge from professional jockeys Mallesh Nareddu, YS Srinath and B Prakash and two amateurs, to win a 600 metres exhibition race at the Hello! Million. It was a promotion event for his Friday release Veer (produced by Vijay Gallani for Eros International Media Ltd), in which the Bollywood hunk plays a swashbuckling, horse-riding warrior, but Salman threw himself into preparation days before the race. He is a trained rider, in case you don’t know, and among his close buddies are several professional jockeys. Now the training and friendship came in good stead as he got back to his riding ways and the jocks familiarised him with the bends and finish of the race track.
With the entire Khan-daan sitting in the Members’ Enclosure of the Turf Club and cheering him lustily, Salman took the finish like a pro, glancing over his shoulder triumphantly at the field a short head behind. He was riding with broken stirrups. But that kind of victory in the face of daunting circumstances, you could have expected from the action hero. Later, the star jockey of the afternoon told BT, “I was nervous, but I won because of God’s grace, and I’m happy about that. There was a slight moment of panic when my stirrups broke... but then, ultimately, it was all good.” The competing jockeys thought he was fantastic in the saddle, the Turf Club members mobbed the actor, and the Mahalaxmi Racecourse enjoyed its day in the sun. Not since Vijay Mallya had the legendary English jockey Lester Piggot, considered the world’s best in his time, riding the 1991 Derby has the racecourse had such excitement. The 2010 Derby is close, and Mallya should look at Salman’s dates and consider his race card more carefully.
With the entire Khan-daan sitting in the Members’ Enclosure of the Turf Club and cheering him lustily, Salman took the finish like a pro, glancing over his shoulder triumphantly at the field a short head behind. He was riding with broken stirrups. But that kind of victory in the face of daunting circumstances, you could have expected from the action hero. Later, the star jockey of the afternoon told BT, “I was nervous, but I won because of God’s grace, and I’m happy about that. There was a slight moment of panic when my stirrups broke... but then, ultimately, it was all good.” The competing jockeys thought he was fantastic in the saddle, the Turf Club members mobbed the actor, and the Mahalaxmi Racecourse enjoyed its day in the sun. Not since Vijay Mallya had the legendary English jockey Lester Piggot, considered the world’s best in his time, riding the 1991 Derby has the racecourse had such excitement. The 2010 Derby is close, and Mallya should look at Salman’s dates and consider his race card more carefully.
Did Vivek Oberoi crash Shahrukh's party
Vivek Oberoi’s visit to Shahrukh Khan’s home Mannat after the celebrations at Hrithik Roshan’s birthday bash at a Mumbai hotspot has been talk of the tinsel town lately.
First, we heard that Shahrukh played the peacemaker between Vivek and Abhishek when he invited a couple of guests at Hrithik’s bash for an after-party at his residence Mannat more than a week back.
Now, another side of the story has come to the fore. Rumours are abuzz that Vivek was actually not invited to the party but simply tagged along with the guests who were headed to SRK’s home. Needless to mention that these guests also included Vivek’s ex flame Aishwarya Rai and her hubby Abhishek Bachchan.
From what we hear now, Vivek made quite a “fool of himself” at the party with his funny dances and over-friendly attitude even though few people seemed interested in talking with him.
However, knowing how good a host SRK and Gauri are to their guests, we take this bit of news with a pinch of salt.
First, we heard that Shahrukh played the peacemaker between Vivek and Abhishek when he invited a couple of guests at Hrithik’s bash for an after-party at his residence Mannat more than a week back.
Now, another side of the story has come to the fore. Rumours are abuzz that Vivek was actually not invited to the party but simply tagged along with the guests who were headed to SRK’s home. Needless to mention that these guests also included Vivek’s ex flame Aishwarya Rai and her hubby Abhishek Bachchan.
From what we hear now, Vivek made quite a “fool of himself” at the party with his funny dances and over-friendly attitude even though few people seemed interested in talking with him.
However, knowing how good a host SRK and Gauri are to their guests, we take this bit of news with a pinch of salt.
Sherlyn Chopra focuses on career growth
A flop Yash Chopra film and a forgettable stint in ‘Bigg Boss 3’ wasn’t of much help to the hot Sherlyn Chopra. The ambitious gal wants to clinch a big deal, meaning a good banner movie.
Trying to find a toehold among the A-listers of Bollywood, Sherlyn has teamed with India’s No 1 talent management company. As per a daily, the firm aims to make Sherlyn one of the most competent and sought after brands in the entertainment industry. Sounds impressive! The cosmetically enhanced girl has come of age in terms of PR reality.
And she is quoted as saying, “My new doctor, who happens to be a perception specialist, has already set the ball rolling for me. This time the focus is on brand enhancement.”
Is it going to be helpful for her?
Trying to find a toehold among the A-listers of Bollywood, Sherlyn has teamed with India’s No 1 talent management company. As per a daily, the firm aims to make Sherlyn one of the most competent and sought after brands in the entertainment industry. Sounds impressive! The cosmetically enhanced girl has come of age in terms of PR reality.
And she is quoted as saying, “My new doctor, who happens to be a perception specialist, has already set the ball rolling for me. This time the focus is on brand enhancement.”
Is it going to be helpful for her?
Shahrukh Khan and Aamir Khan in Berlin Festival together
Shah Rukh Khan will walk the red carpet in Berlin with co-star Kajol and film-maker buddy Karan Johar. His My Name is Khan has been invited to the prestigious Berlin Film Festival.
Aamir Khan’s Peepli Live that has been selected for the Sundance Film Festival is also in the competition section of this festival. Quite naturally, Aamir and his wife Kiran will be present in Berlin, too. So the next big face off between the Bollywood giants will be there. Now, don’t get excited, no fireworks of any great magnitude are expected. SRK’s film is not in the competition whereas Aamir’s film is. But just the fact that all eyes will be on these two Khans, because they will be present at the same foreign venue, is enough to generate quite a bit of media fodder.
Aamir Khan’s Peepli Live that has been selected for the Sundance Film Festival is also in the competition section of this festival. Quite naturally, Aamir and his wife Kiran will be present in Berlin, too. So the next big face off between the Bollywood giants will be there. Now, don’t get excited, no fireworks of any great magnitude are expected. SRK’s film is not in the competition whereas Aamir’s film is. But just the fact that all eyes will be on these two Khans, because they will be present at the same foreign venue, is enough to generate quite a bit of media fodder.
Jacqueline Fernandez wins exciting new face
Jacqueline Fernandez who debuted in ALADIN received her due at the Max Stardust Awards 2010.
Ex - Miss Sri Lanka Jacqueline Fernandez from TV anchoring to political reporting to modeling, has done it all and now has finally fulfilled her childhood dream of becoming an actress.
The gorgeous star made a big splash with her debut in Sujoy Ghosh's ALADIN alongside veteran actor Amitabh Bachchan and Riteish Deshmukh - the results of which won Jacqueline the 'Exciting New Face' at the Stardust Awards 2010.
Reveals a source "Jacky debuted with Amitabh Bachchan in her first film very few get the opportunity to work with a Bollywood legend this early in their career. Jacqueline has a unique face, very Malaysian yet very Indian. The screen loves her"
Jacqueline Fernandez was only too thrilled to receive the honor. Says a gushing Jacky "This is the first award I've received and will cherish it. I will only strive to work harder now"
With such an effortless performance and gorgeous face Jacqueline Fernandez managed to make her mark in Bollywood.
The year's exciting new face will soon be seen yet again alongside Riteish Deshmukh in JAANE KAHA SE AAYE HAI
Max Stardust Awards
MUMBAI - Megastar Amitabh Bachchan has bagged the Reader’s Choice best actor award for the movie “Paa” while Kareena Kapoor was adjudged best actress for “Kurbaan” at the seventh Stardust Awards here.
Rajkumar Hirani’s well-made “3 Idiots” got the Reader’s Choice best film of the year award even as Imtiyaz Ali bagged the Reader’s Choice best director award at the star-studded ceremony Sunday evening.
Rohit Shetty bagged the Stardust Editor’s Choice award for best director for his movie “All The Best”. The best actor and best actress awards in the same category were given to Shahid Kapoor for “Kaminey” and Kareena Kapoor for “Kurbaan”, respectively.
While “Wanted” bagged the best film in action thriller category, “All The Best” was adjudged the best comedy film.
Another special award, Superstar of tomorrow (male), went to Ranbir Kapoor for “Wake Up Sid” and “Ajab Prem ki Gazab Kahani”, while Superstar of tomorrow (female) was grabbed by Mugdha Godse for “Jail”. The hottest new filmmaker award went to Ayan Mukherjee for “Wake up Sid”.
The new musical sensational (female) award went to Kavitha Seth for “Iktara” from “Wake up Sid” and the award for new musical sensational (male) went to Suraj Jagan for “Give me some sunshine” (”3idiots”).
Piyush Mishra won the Stardust performance by a music director award for “Gulaal”, while Subrat Sinha won the Stardust performance by a lyricist for “Radio”.
Rekha was honoured with Stardust Editor’s Choice Icon of the Industry award at the ceremony.
Actors Katrina Kaif, Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor sizzled on stage performing to some of their hit songs.
Rajkumar Hirani’s well-made “3 Idiots” got the Reader’s Choice best film of the year award even as Imtiyaz Ali bagged the Reader’s Choice best director award at the star-studded ceremony Sunday evening.
Rohit Shetty bagged the Stardust Editor’s Choice award for best director for his movie “All The Best”. The best actor and best actress awards in the same category were given to Shahid Kapoor for “Kaminey” and Kareena Kapoor for “Kurbaan”, respectively.
While “Wanted” bagged the best film in action thriller category, “All The Best” was adjudged the best comedy film.
Another special award, Superstar of tomorrow (male), went to Ranbir Kapoor for “Wake Up Sid” and “Ajab Prem ki Gazab Kahani”, while Superstar of tomorrow (female) was grabbed by Mugdha Godse for “Jail”. The hottest new filmmaker award went to Ayan Mukherjee for “Wake up Sid”.
The new musical sensational (female) award went to Kavitha Seth for “Iktara” from “Wake up Sid” and the award for new musical sensational (male) went to Suraj Jagan for “Give me some sunshine” (”3idiots”).
Piyush Mishra won the Stardust performance by a music director award for “Gulaal”, while Subrat Sinha won the Stardust performance by a lyricist for “Radio”.
Rekha was honoured with Stardust Editor’s Choice Icon of the Industry award at the ceremony.
Actors Katrina Kaif, Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor sizzled on stage performing to some of their hit songs.
Winners of Max Stardust Awards 2010
Superstar Of Tomorrow - Male
Ranbir Kapoor - Wake Up Sid & Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani
Breakthrough Performance - Male
Abhimanyu Singh - Gulaal
Breakthrough Performance - Female
Shahana Goswami - Firaaq
Hottest Film Of The Year
Love Aaj Kal
Hottest New Director
Ayaan Mukherjee - Wake Up Sid
Exciting New Face
Jacqueline Fernandez - Aladin
STARDUST SEARCHLIGHT AWARDS
Best Actress
Preity Zinta - Videsh
Best Film
Chintuji
Best Director
Ranjit Kapoor - Chintuji
READERS CHOICE AWARDS
Dream Director
Imtiaz Ali - Love Aaj Kal
Best Film Of The Year - Comedy
All The Best
Best Film Of The Year - Action / Thriller
Wanted
Best Film Of The Year - Drama
3 Idiots
Star Of The Year - Male
Amitabh Bachchan - Paa
Star Of The Year - Female
Kareena Kapoor - Kurbaan & 3 Idiots
Best Actor In A Supporting Role
Abhishek Bachchan - Paa
Best Actress In A Supporting Role
Kirron Kher - Kurbaan
Best Actor In A Comedy Role
Ajay Devgn - All The Best
Best Actor - Popular
Akshay Kumar - Blue
Best Actress - Popular
Katrina Kaif - New York, Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani
Ranbir Kapoor - Wake Up Sid & Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani
Breakthrough Performance - Male
Abhimanyu Singh - Gulaal
Breakthrough Performance - Female
Shahana Goswami - Firaaq
Hottest Film Of The Year
Love Aaj Kal
Hottest New Director
Ayaan Mukherjee - Wake Up Sid
Exciting New Face
Jacqueline Fernandez - Aladin
STARDUST SEARCHLIGHT AWARDS
Best Actress
Preity Zinta - Videsh
Best Film
Chintuji
Best Director
Ranjit Kapoor - Chintuji
READERS CHOICE AWARDS
Dream Director
Imtiaz Ali - Love Aaj Kal
Best Film Of The Year - Comedy
All The Best
Best Film Of The Year - Action / Thriller
Wanted
Best Film Of The Year - Drama
3 Idiots
Star Of The Year - Male
Amitabh Bachchan - Paa
Star Of The Year - Female
Kareena Kapoor - Kurbaan & 3 Idiots
Best Actor In A Supporting Role
Abhishek Bachchan - Paa
Best Actress In A Supporting Role
Kirron Kher - Kurbaan
Best Actor In A Comedy Role
Ajay Devgn - All The Best
Best Actor - Popular
Akshay Kumar - Blue
Best Actress - Popular
Katrina Kaif - New York, Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani
Priyanka chooses Vishal Bharadwaj over Rohan Sippy
Priyanka Chopra, as we all well know by now, is very keen to be part of Rohan Sippy's film. Rohan who had earlier worked with Priyanka in Bluffmaster was also keen to cast her in his Goan drug-busting film. Sippy wanted to cast Priyanka in a powerful role opposite the Southern star Rana Daggubati.
The earlier plan was to cast Priyanka opposite Abhishek. But now a new girl will be paired with Abhishek while Priyanka was seriously considered opposite Daggubati.
Says a source, "Unfortunately the dates on which Priyanka was required for Rohan's film clashed with Vishal Bhardwaj's film."
After Kaminey, Priyanka has a unique chemistry with Bhardwaj. In Vishal's Ek Bataa Saat (which means '1 into 7') she plays a woman with seven husbands, a big challenge for the actress.
Says a source, "There was no way Priyanka could let go of Vishal's Ek Bataa Saat. So she regretfully opted out of Rohan's film."
Now Rohan says he would probably have to cast newcomers opposite both Abhishek and Rana Daggubati.
The earlier plan was to cast Priyanka opposite Abhishek. But now a new girl will be paired with Abhishek while Priyanka was seriously considered opposite Daggubati.
Says a source, "Unfortunately the dates on which Priyanka was required for Rohan's film clashed with Vishal Bhardwaj's film."
After Kaminey, Priyanka has a unique chemistry with Bhardwaj. In Vishal's Ek Bataa Saat (which means '1 into 7') she plays a woman with seven husbands, a big challenge for the actress.
Says a source, "There was no way Priyanka could let go of Vishal's Ek Bataa Saat. So she regretfully opted out of Rohan's film."
Now Rohan says he would probably have to cast newcomers opposite both Abhishek and Rana Daggubati.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Sushmita Sen has officially adopted her 2nd child
A beaming Sushmita Sen stepped out of Bombay High Court on Wednesday, overjoyed that she had been granted adoption of her second girl child.
Dressed simply in blue jeans and white top, the actress held the baby tight in her arms and said, “She’s now officially Alisah Sen.”
Born on August 28, 2009, the baby was surrendered few days later by her unmarried mother to Child Welfare Committee. Alisah, who’s been with Sen since December, was earlier just her ward. However, the legal adoption process has been completed now and the almost six-month-old is now officially Sen’s daughter. Sen adopted her first child Rene under Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act, which does not permit a person to adopt a second child of the same gender. Last year, however, the court had passed an order that allowed a person to adopt a second child of same sex under the
Dressed simply in blue jeans and white top, the actress held the baby tight in her arms and said, “She’s now officially Alisah Sen.”
Born on August 28, 2009, the baby was surrendered few days later by her unmarried mother to Child Welfare Committee. Alisah, who’s been with Sen since December, was earlier just her ward. However, the legal adoption process has been completed now and the almost six-month-old is now officially Sen’s daughter. Sen adopted her first child Rene under Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act, which does not permit a person to adopt a second child of the same gender. Last year, however, the court had passed an order that allowed a person to adopt a second child of same sex under the
Neil Nitin Mukesh gets mobbed on Mumbai road
Neil Nitin Mukesh has been cruising the streets of Mumbai on a bike - for the shooting of his latest movie. The actor got mobbed recently despite the security 'bandobast'.
Neil plays the role of a biker cruising the streets of Mumbai with co-stars KayKay Menon and Piyush Mishra in Yashraj Films' new production directed by Pradeep Sarkar.
The production unit tried to keep Neil's shooting for four consecutive nights last week in various parts of Mumbai, including King's Circle, Ballard Pier, Marine Lines and the Asiatic Library, a secret.
Though the security 'bandobast' at all the shooting spots was foolproof, a large group of fans surrounded Neil at Marine Lines. As the security guards tried to put off the mob, matters got worse and Neil had to be whisked away from the venue.
Says Neil: "Luckily, Yashraj's security arrangements are impeccable. We never knew there would be so many people on the streets post-midnight. Mumbai in the dead of the night was a new experience for me. This was the first time I was shooting on the streets of Mumbai since Sudhir Mishra's 'Tera Kya Hoga Johnny'."
Neil plays a biker in Sarkar's film and has many dangerous biking stunts to perform. These never-before action scenes are being coordinated by action director Shyam Kaushal.
"I'm not telling you anything beyond the fact that our film is at the moment titled Production No 37. Don't ask me why. I don't think Yashraj has made 36 films. And yes, if my parents hear about me doing dangerous stunts they'll freak out," the actor quipped.
Neil can't wait to work with Deepika Padukone in the film. "Deepika and I vibe very well. I've known her from the time she was seeing Ranbir Kapoor. Deepika and I have been rehearsing rigorously for this film for one month. She's a lovely co-star. I'm looking forward to working with her as she starts shooting at the end of January."
Neil plays the role of a biker cruising the streets of Mumbai with co-stars KayKay Menon and Piyush Mishra in Yashraj Films' new production directed by Pradeep Sarkar.
The production unit tried to keep Neil's shooting for four consecutive nights last week in various parts of Mumbai, including King's Circle, Ballard Pier, Marine Lines and the Asiatic Library, a secret.
Though the security 'bandobast' at all the shooting spots was foolproof, a large group of fans surrounded Neil at Marine Lines. As the security guards tried to put off the mob, matters got worse and Neil had to be whisked away from the venue.
Says Neil: "Luckily, Yashraj's security arrangements are impeccable. We never knew there would be so many people on the streets post-midnight. Mumbai in the dead of the night was a new experience for me. This was the first time I was shooting on the streets of Mumbai since Sudhir Mishra's 'Tera Kya Hoga Johnny'."
Neil plays a biker in Sarkar's film and has many dangerous biking stunts to perform. These never-before action scenes are being coordinated by action director Shyam Kaushal.
"I'm not telling you anything beyond the fact that our film is at the moment titled Production No 37. Don't ask me why. I don't think Yashraj has made 36 films. And yes, if my parents hear about me doing dangerous stunts they'll freak out," the actor quipped.
Neil can't wait to work with Deepika Padukone in the film. "Deepika and I vibe very well. I've known her from the time she was seeing Ranbir Kapoor. Deepika and I have been rehearsing rigorously for this film for one month. She's a lovely co-star. I'm looking forward to working with her as she starts shooting at the end of January."
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