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Movie Review: ‘Krazzy 4’

2008-04-15T09:35:00.000-07:00

Crazy kiya re: Rakesh Roshan’s ‘Krazzy 4’ Produced by ‘Film Kraft Productions’ and Directed by Jaideep Sen. It stars Juhi Chawla, Dia Mirza, Arshad Warsi, Irrfan Khan, Rajpal Yadav and Suresh Menon.

It’s a copy of Howard Zieff’s 1989 Hollywood comedy flick ‘The Dream Team’. This is a comedy with a social message and is a wholesome commercial entertainer, which will appeal to every section of audience.

The film is based around the 4 characters. The main protagonists are played by Arshad Warsi, Irrfan Khan, Suresh Menon and Rajpal Yadav who form the crazy foursome with key supporting roles by Juhi Chawla and Dia Mirza.

The film is about 4 mentally unstable people who escape from the mental hospital in order to explore the world. They are out on a one-day trip. The film goes on to show if these four characters are crazy or is it the world that is actually crazy.

Characters : Arshad Warsi is Raja: Truly the angry young man! His blood boils, his fists clench and he's ready to beat the daylights out of anyone who upsets him in some way.

Source-indiatarget.com

Saif’s Son To Make Debut In Bollywood With ‘Tashan’

2008-04-15T09:30:00.000-07:00

Saif Ali Khan is riding high now-a-days.

With the new girlfriend, Bebo, the success of ‘Race’ and with his forthcoming movie, Tashan, there is nothing to look back for him.

Besides all this, one more thing that’s bringing smile on Saif's face is that his son, Ibrahim, will soon be making his debut on big screen.

This is really a proud moment for ‘Chotte Nawab.’

Monica Bhattacharya, the spokesperson of Yash Raj Films said, “Ibrahim will be seen in a cameo role in Tashan. However, we cannot reveal his role and what he does. Surprises must be kept.”

“Though we don't know much about Ibrahim's role in the film, we have surely learnt that papa Saif is very happy with Ibrahim's performance in front of the camera,” the sources said.

Source-topnews.in

'Krazzy 4' case highlights Bollywood's copyright woes

2008-04-15T09:24:00.000-07:00

MUMBAI: Musician Ram Sampat's Rs 2 crore out of court settlement with filmmaker Rakesh Roshan for alleged plagiarism has again highlighted Bollywood's ignorance of copyright laws.

Many industry people hailed the decision even though some were against the way Sampat went about securing his rights. The industry reacts:

Subhash Ghai: "Though I've no right to comment on this case without knowing the inside story I must say we sometimes mistake an inspired re-worked version of a song or film as our own original work of art without realizing the complications of copyright laws.

It's no secret that we in this country have been adapting and re-working on music and movies completely ignorant of the laws. This case has warned us about the future. However I'm sure Rajesh Roshan is talented enough not to pick on anyone's work. A R Rahman: "No comments. But it's high time everyone cleaned up his act and people started getting fair to creative people."

Mahesh Bhatt: "There's always someone somewhere who's smarter than you. This case is a wakeup call for Bollywood. The world has changed. We need to mend our ways. It will now be tougher for us to 'steal' and not get caught.

Manish Acharya: "When I made 'Loins Of Punjab Presents ...' I got the copyrights for every single evergreen song that I used as part of the music contest. Even the music companies were surprised when I sought permission even to use an eight second clip. I don't watch TV so I don't know the merits of Ram's case. Nor have I heard the "Krazzy 4" songs. But valuing the IPR (Intellectual Property Rights) is inevitable given the film industry's growth strategy and influx of corporate money into Bollywood.

Alisha Chinai: "I absolutely agree with Ram Sampat's action. Plagiarism is a way of life in Bollywood. They don't play by rules. They're unethical and they rip off songs, copyrights and royalties of musicians and singers shamelessly. If this continues the music industry will crash.

Kunal Ganjawala: "Some of us singers have been fighting an ongoing battle against discrimination in the film industry. Do you know we singers in the film industry are still legally known as "instruments"? Can you imagine Lata-ji (Mangeshkar) and Asha-ji (Bhosle) are "instruments"? Seen in that light, Ram Sampat's court victory is a big step ahead. I've known Ram for years and have worked with him. He's hugely talented and he doesn't really care about doing music in films. He's happy with his jingles and his ventures abroad including one with the European band INXS, which he has just completed. Ram has opened up the discussion about the importance of musicians in Bollywood. However the Roshans (Rakesh and Rajesh) whom I've worked with in "Krissh" are honourable people.

I can bet my last song they'd never ever do anything underhand. Apparently the cellphone company Sony Ericsson has goofed up. They sent the Roshans a clearance letter to use Ram Sampat's tune and didn't inform Ram. Five years ago a composer named Rupert Fernandes was paid a pittance for a signature tune for Hutch, which became their product's international theme. If musicians today are thinking and getting big money, I'd say about time. But I still insist the Roshans aren't capable of cheating anyone.

Pritam Chakbraborty: "I've often been accused of plagiarism, so I'm in a peculiar position as both a musician and an apparent offender. Both Ram Sampat and Rajesh Roshan are wonderful creative people. Ram is a great musician. At the same time I've grown up listening to Rajesh Roshan's tunes. In a way this judgement in Ram's favour is a huge leap for the music industry. On the other hand, the timing of the accusation when producer Rakesh Roshan's film was on the verge of release and he had no option but to pay up is unfortunate.

In the West, musicians are treated decently. Ours is a very disorganised entertainment industry and Ram Sampat has set a definite precedent. And my respect for the judiciary has gone up manifold. An underdog winning a case so speedily....wow! However this precedent can be misused. Even a fiercely original film like "Chak De India" was accused of plagiarism. Scarily enough the Roshans tried to take proper permission from Sony Ericsson. There was a mess-up. So their intentions were not wrong.
Source-indiatimes.com

Bollywood needs more actresses who can dance: Sen

2008-04-15T09:20:00.000-07:00

New Delhi (PTI): Director Jaideep Sen whose debut "Krazzy 4" has tinsel town's two most popular actors shaking a leg feels that Bollywood desperately needs actresses who can dance too.

"It is unfortunate that no actress in the present league is as good as dancing queens of yesteryears like Madhuri or Sridevi. We have a serious dearth of quality dancing actresses now," he says.

The two item songs, "Krazzy 4" and "Breakfree" which star, Hrithik Roshan and Shahrukh Khan, respectively have turned out to be key attractions of the film and Jaideep is upbeat about raking in profits using the item songs.

"It is really kind of Shahrukh and Hrithik to have danced in the film. It has definitely helped the film in a big way. It has turned out to be a huge attraction and the audience has really liked them. It has been like an icing on the cake," he says.

Jaideep, whose film ran into rough weather after jingle composer Ram Sampat slapped a case of plagiarism for using the thump theme that he composed for a Sony Ericsson advertisement featuring Hrithik, says he never focused on the audio of the advertisement.

"I have seen the jingle of Sampat's Sony Ericsson ad a couple of times but I never focused on the audio. It never registered in my brain. I was so struck by Hrithik's dancing prowess in the advertisement," the Director says.

Jaideep says he is disappointed that his film ran in to controversies even before its release.

"Filing PILs and dragging a film into a controversy has become a trend. It is a ploy employed by some individuals and organisations to trouble and harass filmmakers. It is certainly in bad taste," he says.

"I think these people should try and make a film only then they will understand the pain that a director and the complete unit takes to complete a film, he adds.

Although, Jaideep has two top actors making a special appearance in the songs, the film doesn't have any big star playing the lead. However, Jaideep remains confident that film will do well.

"I feel the audience always like a good actor over a big star and in 'Krazzy 4' all the four principal actors and the actresses are very good. So I don't think it will affect the film," he reasons.

While 'Krazzy 4' is yet to prove its worth at the Box-Office, the director still has reasons enough to cheer that he has already bagged two films.

"I have two films in my kitty now, one with Perceptfilms. It is an espionage thriller and the details are still to be finalised. The other is a Gurang Doshi production and will be a sequel of the 2002 thriller 'Aankhen' and will hopefully star Amitabh Bachchan," he says.
Source-hindu.com

Yash Raj signs Hrithik Roshan

2008-04-12T06:09:00.000-07:00

Yes, Aditya Chopra has signed Krazzy 4 star Hrithik Roshan for his upcoming venture, which will be directed by Pradeep Sarkar. Aditya finalised a script for which he had approached both Shah Rukh Khan and Hrithik Roshan. The film will be a romantic action with Preity Zinta and Aditya’s favourite Rani Mukherjee in the female leads. Production is expected to begin in June in Greece.

After the success Jodhaa Akbar, Hrithik Roshan is being approached by numerous banners including the covered Yash Raj Films. The actor has in fact signed a film with YRF in which he will star opposite Sonam Kapoor. The film will be directed by Pradeep Sarkar of Parineeta fame.

“I can’t give many details but yes the film is inspired by Shakespeare'''s Romeo and Juliet. The film is expected to begin at the end of the year as both the stars don’t have dates prior to that. Sonam is very excited about this film as she is great fan of Hrithik. She liked Hrithik role in Jodhaa Akbar,” says a source.

Roshan, who is awaiting his second baby, is currently nursing his injured knee. “His knee was injured during the shoot of Krissh 2 years as his left knee was injured while doing the stunts. He had gone to Singapore for the treatment after filming for Jodhaa Akbar and Cinthol ad with this injury.

During the shoot of Jodhaa Akbar there was scene with elephant which was very painful for him to shoot but still he managed to do the shoot. Then recently he shot for Cinthol which had more stunts then Dhoom 2. In each scene he was finding it very difficult,” says the source. Even as far as dad, Rakesh Roshan’s production Krazzy 4, Hrithik was originally supposed to do the song that was finally shot on Shah Rukh Khan.
Source

Salman training Brazilian model for Bollywood

2008-04-12T06:06:00.000-07:00

If reports are to be believed, Salman Khan is training Brazilian model Bruna Abdullah for Bollywood.

Salman wants to launch her in a film and has taken it upon himself to train her for the tinsel town.

According to a source, Sallu has even got tutors to teach acting, diction and dancing to Bruna. And he's said to have tucked her away in his farmhouse at Panvel, for most part of the week.

Currently shooting for Wanted – Dead and Alive in Turbhe, Salman drives to his farmhouse after pack-up to spend some quality time with Bruna, before returning home.
Source

Bollywood is a family business: Aman Verma

2008-04-12T06:03:00.000-07:00

Popular TV actor and anchor Aman Verma, who has also played cameo roles in a few Hindi films, alleges that the Indian film industry has become a family business and those without backers are having a hard time.

"It has become very difficult for new actors to make a mark in Bollywood unless he or she is related to someone in the industry. In fact, even I have faced a similar problem," Verma told IANS here. He was in town to attend the launch of his new TV soap Sujata.

"Unfortunately, Bollywood is now a very closed industry. Some of the new crop of actors who neither have acting acumen nor are good looking are in the industry only because they are related to someone."

Citing the example of Neil Nitin Mukesh, the grandson of late playback singer Mukesh, Aman said: "I won't say that he isn't good-looking but he is getting offers because he is related to an industry person."

"We do have exceptions like Shah Rukh Khan and Akshay Kumar who are ruling the industry today, but then fresh entrants who have no backing at all are facing a lot of problems."

Of late, Aman has only been working with producer-director Ravi Chopra's BR Films - he did films like Baghban and Baabul, a TV serial Viraasat and now Sujata.

"If this production house keeps me happy and content and if I am able to strengthen my position here, why not stick here? I'm also able to exercise my acting potential comfortably here," he said.

After a long hiatus, Aman was seen in Teen Bahuraniyaan. On being asked about his break from television, the actor said that after Viraasat, nothing excited him enough to come back.

"As an actor, I like to keep re-inventing myself; otherwise I get bored. I don't even want to be typecast in a certain genre so I feel it is better to wait for the right offer rather than grabbing anything and everything."

In Sujata, he plays an ambitious family man, but in real life, he is in no hurry to get married.

"I will marry some day but not very soon. I need to find someone to marry first and then I will think about it," he quipped.

The actor has a couple of films lined up - Partho Ghosh's Bas Ek Second and Ravi Chopra's Pocket Maar.
source

Bachchan Vs Kapoor: The I-Day clash!

2008-04-09T07:43:00.000-07:00

The scions of perhaps two of the biggest families of Hindi cinema, which draw their lineage from the likes of the original showman, (late) Raj Kapoor and the megastar Amitabh Bachchan, are all set to take on each other. To the film buffs it must be obvious that we are referring to the hot ' n' happening Aby's Baby, Abhishek Bachchan and Rishi and Neetu Kapoor's teenage heartthrob son, Ranbir Raj Kapoor. The films in question are Goldie Behl's SFX extravaganza, DRONA and Siddharth Raj Anand's, BACHNA AE HASEENO, both of which are now all set to release on 15th August 2008.

As per our trade sources, till a couple of weeks back there were chances that EROS International, the worldwide distributors of the Abhishek-Priyanka starrer DRONA may move ahead to avoid the unnecessary clash.

However, sources at EROS have decided to stick to the original schedule, in order to take advantage of the Independence Day weekend, which also has the additional 'raksha bandhan' holiday. They believe that though the one film old Ranbir Kapoor has a lot of potential but he will not be so much of a threat to the already established star, Abhishek Bachchan. Moreover, both the movies are as different as chalk and cheese and hence will not cut into each other's business.

Well, our best wishes to both the films and the usual formality of the disclaimer- Release dates can change even at the eleventh hour!
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Hrithik Roshan to be the face of Mumbai Indians IPL team: report

2008-04-09T07:33:00.000-07:00

Out of ideas but with very deep pockets, Mukesh Ambani has hired Hrithik Roshan to promote his IPL team - Mumbai Indians, for no other logical reason, we believe, than the fact that Shah Rukh Khan is promoting his own team - Kolkata Knight Riders.

Hrithik will feature in a promotional music video for Mumbai Indians, and is currently shooting for it at ND Studios in Karjat, reports the Mumbai Mirror.

According to the tabloid, Mukesh Ambani has put his personal chopper at Hrithik's disposal, to enable the star to beat the Mumbai traffic, during his commute to and from Karjat.

Our own sources tell us that Hrithik had planned to use the chopper on Sunday, April 6, but the trip was called off.

The promotional video includes a night sequence for which Hrithik flies to the set in the evening and returns early in the morning.

"We have chosen Hrithik to be the face of our team and shoot for the IPL anthem because he has the right persona and attitude," a source told Mumbai Mirror.

Out own attempts to confirm the story from Hrithik's flack, Parag Desai, drew a blank.

Equally out of ideas, but not with as deep pockets as Mukesh Ambani, is Kingfisher boss Vijay Mallya, who has roped in two of Bollywood's hottest actresses, Katrina Kaif and Deepika Padukone, for a music video to promote his Bangalore IPL team - Royal Challengers.

While the blending of Bollywood with cricket is sure to produce a heady mix of entertainment for nutty Indian audiences, it is unlikely to prove an elixir for the dismal state of sports in India, or the erratically performing Indian cricket team.

We think these gentlemen are completely out of their minds.

Source

Abhishek: I like Ash's pairing with Hrithik

2008-04-07T11:31:00.000-07:00

Guru which most consider your finest performance to date came at the start of 2007. Do you think it's forgotten at the awards at the end of the year?
Why do you say that? Rang De Basanti had also been released in January. Awards are no doubt very encouraging. But there have been many notable films in the past that haven't won awards. At the end of the day, the greatest award is a successful film.

Are you more possessive about Sarkar Raj than Jodhaa Akbar since the former stars you with your wife?
No. At the end of the day I am an actor. And we're both thoroughly professional. It would be incorrect for me to be possessive about our film together. I am both an actor and her husband. I'm possessive about her, not her films. It doesn't matter whom she works with. In fact, I really like her pairing with Duggu. I think they looked good together in Dhoom 2 and Jodhaa Akbar. I wish that pair all the best.

Interestingly the first and second turning points in your career were both courtesy Mani Ratnam, weren't they?
Yes, Yuva and Guru. Mani is very special. He had faith in me at a time when most people had lost faith, including myself. He's a friend and mentor. I hope I never let him down. I'd love to work again and again with him. He knows I'm only a phone call away. According to me, he's one of the most talented directors we've ever had. Mani is very reserved. If he has another film for me he would tell me when he's ready.

You went through a prolonged lean phase at the beginning of your career. Comment.
During the times when my films were flopping I had friends like Karan Johar who kept my morale high. I can't deny access to the industry was easier because you are a Bachchan. And I guess I did have it much easier than many people. But once you get a chance you've to prove yourself just like anybody else. I had to struggle. I almost gave up after seventeen failures. My father kept saying, just keep working and believe in yourself. Thankfully, better days were around the corner. You've to work very hard to get anywhere in this business. And I'm working hard. However, there's no formula for success. When I decided to do Guru, a lot of my friends thought it wouldn't work at all. By the grace of God it did well.

Are you pleased with your assignments?
Of course! How wonderful to be working at a time when an actor gets to do a Sarkar Raj, Drona and Dilli 6 during the same year. It's a dream come true for any actor.

Why did you initially opt out of Dilli 6?
Rakeysh Mehra mentioned the subject to me many years ago. He finally decided to shoot it in winter 2006 when I was committed to shooting Drona. I suggested he do it with someone else. He asked Duggu who asked me if it was okay. I was perfectly okay with that. But then Duggu's dates didn't work out. Then Rakeysh decided to re-write the script. By then it was December 2007 and I was thankfully able to do the film. The rest, I hope will be history. Rakeysh is a very sensitive director and I love working with him. I was meant to start my career with him.

How has the experience in Jaipur been so far?
It's like attending acting school every morning. When would I again get an opportunity to observe and work with actors like Waheeda Rehmanji, Chintu Uncle(Rishi Kapoor), Om Puriji, Deepak Dobriyal, Pawan Malhotra,, Vijay Raaz, Atul Kulkarni, K.K Raina….It's school! It's cool!

Both you and dad are huge fans of Waheedaji?
Who isn't? This is my second film with her after Om Jai Jagdish. I just keep staring at her. Actors would do anything to be in one frame with her.

And what about your co-star Sonam Kapoor?
I saw Saawariya and thought she was wonderful. When I started my career I wasn't half as good as Sonam or Ranbir. It's wonderful to see this whole eager enthusiastic new generation coming in.

Source

Hrithik is an amazing actor and dancer: Juhi

2008-04-07T11:28:00.000-07:00

Mumbai: A buoyant Juhi Chawla is all smiles as her forthcoming release Krazzy4 is ready to try its luck at the box-office.

Manisha Mahaldar: Juhi, you are playing a psychiatrist in the movie. Can you really read a persons mind?

Juhi Chawla: I wish I could. No I can’t read minds. I am too normal for that.

Manisha Mahaldar: You teamed up with Rakesh Roshan for a film called Karobaar in 2000, which got delayed. Are you happy to break the jinx with this one?

Juhi Chawla: All throughout my career , I always wanted to be a part of Filmkraft film. I have tremendous respect for Guddu ji. I think he is a very good filmmaker.

Manisha Mahaldar: Out of all the three item numbers done by Shah Rukh, Hrithik and Rakhi, which one do you think is the best.

Juhi Chawla: I enjoy each one. Honestly, I think each one is special and has something special about it. Shah Rukh’s number Krazzy4 has really caught up. For the first time, when I saw it, I did not understand what was going on in TV. Next time you hear it, it stays with you. As for Hrithik, I have always found him an amazing actor and an amazing dancer. So having him do a number is a treat. Rakhi has her own charm.

Manisha Mahaldar: When are we again seeing you cutting an extraordinary role on the silver screen?

Juhi Chawla: I have an interesting role in Krazzy4. Another film, I play a gypsy, something, which I have never done before. It was brief but it was very colourful.

Source

Hrithik Roshan's Krazzy 4 Dance

2008-03-27T19:46:00.000-07:00

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Rakhi's gratitude to Rakesh Roshan!

2008-03-23T01:29:00.000-07:00

Rakhi never stops hitting headlines wherever she is. Her latest thrill is on the item number that she has done in Rakesh Roshan's 'Krazzy 4'. This diva who looks hot and stunning as always in this song and is all praise for the producer Rakesh Roshan.

She is all thanks for the producer and has said that he so perfect in everything including the shots involving in the song - her wardrobe, make-up, props needed for the song and made sure that everything required for the song was perfect order.

The queen of controversies has gone to the extent of thanking the almighty, who according to her has given an opportunity to do an item song in this film. She has also said that it is because of Rakesh that she has even lost weight. She had even confessed in an interview on TV that she will have more fans for her song, more than even SRK or even Hrithik Roshan!

Has to be, with Rakhi shimmying and sashaying in it!!

Watch out for this film 'Krazzy 4' that is directed by Jaideep Sen that will hit the screens this April 11.
Source

Has Katrina Kaif Dumped Salman?

2008-03-23T01:24:00.000-07:00

Katrina finally seems to be getting away from Salman's shadow. The year 2007 was indeed special for Katrina as she is the only actress to achieve four back-to-back successes in the year in Namastey London, Apne, Partner and Welcome.

Today she has become the highest paid item girl in the industry paid a whopping 1.5 crore to shimmy in Shree Ashtavinayak’s next film Blue.

The film stars Sanjay Dutt, Akshay Kumar and Lara Dutta in lead roles.

We hear, when the production house asked her to do an item number, Kaif initially refused, as she doesn’t want the label of an item girl.

But when the makers agreed to pay her a 1.5 crore fee and offered a few more scenes, the actress accepted.

However, Balaji people were not that lucky. When they approached Katrina to do an item number for their next, C Company, the actress flatly turned it down. Money, of course, was the bone of contention. Balaji was not willing to shell out that kind of money.

But being an item with a fat pay cheque is not what she all wants, she wants to share space with someone like Hrithik.

“I don’t know if I would get an opportunity to work with him so early in my career, but he is one actor I would love to work with, no questions asked," she tells.

"The way he put his heart and soul into the character of Akbar left me speechless. I'm looking forward to working with Hrithik sometime soon.”

Of course, she is also in for an image makeover, so it is bye bye girl next doot and hello sexy siren phase for Katrina.

But this change is not just confined to her professional life. She is also delibrately distancing herself from Salman.

So when someone from media asked her Salman Khan and his ongoing flings with Brazilian supermodel Bruna Abdalah and Mahek Chahal Kat just pounced on the poor guy saying," You know, you guys need to learn that when someone is standing before you, you have to treat that person with respect."

"It's a ridiculous question, ridiculous. You guys need to learn to draw the line," she added before walking away in a huff.
Source

Rani, Bips to do SRK's IPL video

2008-03-23T01:17:00.000-07:00

Shah Rukh Khan has roped in buddy Rani Mukherji and Bipasha Basu to participate in his IPL video. But Preity Zinta who's currently in London makes it clear she's in no competition with Shah Rukh Khan as far as a star line up in the IPL music video is concerned.

Completely cutting down rumours that Preity intends to get buddies Sunny, Bobby and their dad Dharmendra to do a music video, a source very close to Preity says, "The playing field when the matches start in April will be filled with star-cricketers. That takes care of the glam-element. As for the music video, we feel it should represent the earthy feel of Punjab and Chandigarh. We feel we can't capture the flamboyant and vigorous flavour of if we bring in film stars into the video. Preity wants the video to be very Punjabi. That's why she got Daler Mehndi to sing the theme song."

Shah Rukh Khan and Vijay Mallaya on the other hand seem to believe star-lineups to be the best way to attract big crowds to their cricket matches.

Source

Aamir Reveals His New Look For His Upcoming Film

2008-03-23T01:06:00.000-07:00

Top Bollywood actor Aamir Khan shocked everyone with his new look at the premiere of Abbas-Mustan‘s new thriller ‘Race.’

Aamir, who directed the latest Bollywood hit ‘Taare Zammen Par,’ has changed his look for upcoming movie, the big banner Manirathnam film which is the remake of the very popular Tamil hit, 'Ghajini'.

Making his first public appearance with his new dashing look, Aamir said, “This is how it's gonna look and I'm going to keep it like this till the end of the film.”

Aamir also attacked strongly the rumors that he is going bald.

“No, this is what I'm going to look after the second part of the film. The character, I'm playing in the film suffers head injuries and you can see some prominent spots in my head,” he said.

The credit of his new look goes to hairstylist Avan Contractor.

Kiran, who was with Aamir at the premier, said that he looks really ‘HOT’ in his new look.

Well, another added attraction in the movie is that, Aamir will now sport a 6pack ab for the film where he plays a gutsy guy.

Source

Hrithik closing in on SRK?

2008-03-20T06:42:00.000-07:00

With Jodhaa Akbar turning out to be a big grosser, there's no doubt Hrithik Roshan has raced way ahead of a host of other actors in the overseas segment. Earlier it was Shah Rukh Khan who had the maximum fan following abroad. Close on his heels was Akshay Kumar. But now, it's Hrithik!

According to box-office collections, Jodhaa Akbar has been the biggest blockbuster in the overseas market, collecting about $7.5 million (Rs 28 crore). GVN Kumar, project designer for Motion Pictures explains, "In North America, Jodhaa Akbar has got a fantastic opening of $16,02,356 from 100 screens and cumulatively it has collected $33,36,296. In the UK, it has taken a decent opening of £3,63,726 from 46 screens and cumulatively it has collected £9,72,888. In Australia, it has collected $3,94,000." We wonder, is SRK watching?

Source

SRK ropes in Bappi Lahiri, Preity shoots her music video

2008-03-20T06:40:00.000-07:00

With less than a month to go for the biggest cricketing extravaganza - IPL, the franchisees are leaving no stone unturned to create maximum awareness for their respective teams.

King Khan recently held press conferences in Mumbai and Kolkata for his team Kolkata Knight Riders where he unveiled the logo, the theme song (composed by Vishal-Shekhar) and in the process had a field-day with the media. We had even earlier informed you of Preity Zinta having roped in Sajid- Wajid and Daler Mehndi for her team song. In fact last week, even the Bangalore Royal Challengers, owned by Dr. Vijay Mallya had announced their plans for an ad and a promotional video which would feature Rahul Dravid along with Katrina Kaif and Deepika Padukone.

Now it seems like the promotion isn't enough for the teams. News has it that Shah Rukh Khan has apparently approached veteran music composer Bappi Lahiri to compose some more songs for his team. Bappi would be composing three songs which would be sung by him, Usha Uthup, and a Bengali band called Bhoomi. The songs would be recorded some time next week and you never know King Khan may himself croon some lines.

Meanwhile, Preity Zinta recently shot for her music video for her Mohali team. The video is made under Preity's company called P Zinta Film World and is directed by ad filmmaker Ram Madhvani who recently directed the 'Bheja Kam' track for Aamir Khan's Taare Zameen Par. The music of the video has a Punjabi flavor with Bhangra King Daler Mehndi lending his vocals and Sajid- Wajid (Partner, Welcome) composing the music.

Well seems like right now, cricket seems to be on top of the mind for some of our top Bollywood stars.
Source

Deepika unhappy over preferential treatment

2008-03-20T06:38:00.000-07:00

The actress is shooting in Bangkok and has been put up in a lesser hotel than co-star Akshay. After being treated like a big star in Shahrukh Khan's Om Shanti Om, Deepika Padukone is now being treated as a sub-star.

Deepika who is shooting for Chandni Chowk To China in Bangkok has been put up in the Grand Sukhumvit Hotel along with the rest of the cast and crew, while leading actor Akshay Kumar has been put up at the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel.

Though the Grand Sukhumvit is a luxury hotel that boasts of great facilities there is nothing to beatthe Four Seasons Hotel where the rates are almost double that of the Grand Sukhumvit. A source from Bangkok adds, "Even director Nikhil is staying at Grand Sukhumvit, but it must be embarrassing that the leading lady is not in the same hotel as the leading man."

It is believed that Deepika complained about this preferential treatment to a friend in the industry. However the actress takes a brave stance, "I am not upset. As far as I know, I am in a five-star hotel and it's the same hotel that Nikhil, the producers and the rest of the crew is also staying in. It's the Grand Sukhumvit. I am very comfortable and happy. I am being well taken care of."
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Sajid Khan's next stars Akshay, Deepika and Riteish

2008-03-20T06:36:00.000-07:00

He is humorous and so was his film. Sajid Khan set the Bollywood charts high with his directorial debut. He is now all set repeat it again with his forthcoming flick for which he signed Akshay Kumar and Deepika Padukone.

After Chandni Chowk to China, this will be Akshay and Deepika's second film together. Sajid not only repeats Akshay alone but also Riteish Deshmukh and Sajid Nadiadwala for his second film. “The film is yet to be titled and I need to talk to some other stars as well. It is going to be a multistarrer,” says an exhilarated Sajid Khan. The film will also have two more heroines and one more hero.

“The film will go on floor by the end of the year and its going to be a romantic comedy. It's not on the lines of Heyy Babyy and it is for sure going to be the biggest hit film of 2009,” Sajid confidently adds.

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The War is On - Deepika and Sonam

2008-03-20T06:34:00.000-07:00

Meow! Catfights will never cease to exist. But for some, it's the name of the game by default. The Vogue covergirl, Deepika Padukone, and the Cosmopolitan covergirl, Sonam Kapoor were never at war - literally speaking. Their well-painted manicured claws have never been drawn, but the gashes and tension always exist, even though at a layer lower than concrete consciousness - thanks to the media, thanks to their much public profession and thanks to basic human emotions of envy, anxiety and the wish to emerge successful.

While Deepika has flashed those lovely eye-lashes at many-an-award function, has been linked with the hunkiest of men - from cricketers MS. Dhoni, Yuvraj and now actor Ranbir Kapoor, has bombarded your TV sets via several ad-commercials, the glam-doll may be leading the popularity charts, but the race is still on. And Sonam Kapoor, the silent, innocent talent, may just prove to be the dark horse and the deadliest competition for the Padukone girl.

The clash of Om Shanti Om and Saawariya is well-known. Though the latter film saw little or no success, Sonam garnered rave reviews for her performance. It's just another thing that Deepika bagged all the best debutante awards that are usually influenced by box office records, and not just pure talent. After all Deepika didn't even dub for her film.

And if Deepika prides herself in dating newfound hot hunk Ranbir Kapoor today, let's not forget the rumours of a romantic liaison between Sonam and Ranbir sometime ago. Also, if Deepika boasts of some impressive offers under her belt - from Yashraj's Bachna Ae Haseenon opposite beau Ranbir and Nikhil Advani's Chandni Chowk To Chinatown, Sonam has Rakeysh Mehra's Dilli 6 opposite Abhishek Bachchan, was even considered to play the lead in Rakesh Roshan's Kites opposite the very popular Hrithik Roshan, and the icing on her cake is when she signed on Aditya Chopra's Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi , a film in which she'll share screen space with Shah Rukh Khan. Essaying the role of a 16-year-old Punjabi kudi paired opposite a forty year old man (SRK in the film) may make for an interesting story.

If Deepika acted with SRK in her debut film, Sonam acts with the Badshah Khan now, and if Sonam played Ranbir's love interest in Saawariya , Deepika has him for a lover in Bachna Ae Haseenon .

So, if the more-exposed and in your face Deepika is your fast and favourite pin-up poster girl, let's not mistake Sonam's non-exposure to mean that she is the weaker actress. Both the girls are as great and busy with their respective 'image building' exercises. Deepika has managed to enter the bold-n-glam arena, while Sonam has done brilliantly as the sweet, innocent girl you can take home to your mommy. So, which of these two wears the crown is still not clear. In short, Aur picture abhi baaki hai mere dost !
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Deepika proposes to Ranbir for "reel"

2008-03-20T06:32:00.000-07:00

Deepika Padukone and Ranbir Kapoor are the latest star-couple in Bollywood and have gone out open in the media expressing their love for each other. The two debutantes of 2007, who won awards and acclaim for their respective films from last year, have been involved since quite some time now.

The duo knew each other since long and though their were speculations in between that Ranbir was seeing his Saawariya costar Sonam Kapoor, Deepika finally cleared the air expressing her affection for Ranbir and admitting that the two were very much together.

Actually it all brewed on the sets of Siddharth Anand's film Bachna Ae Haseeno in Australia where the duo was shooting together. This was the very scene when Deepika confessed her love for Ranbir. Their off-screen chemistry comes live in this onscreen picture as well.

And while Ranbir also romances other girls like Bipasha Basu and Minissha Lamba in this Yash Raj production, we hope he stays loyal to Deepika off the screen.
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"Bollywood heroines run after us": Sreesanth

2008-03-20T06:28:00.000-07:00

If you think Indian cricketers are running after Bollywood beauties, think again. Indian speed star Sreesanth has declared loud and clear that Bollywood heroines are running after them and not vis-versa.

Sreesanth was spotted with former beauty queen and actress Priyanka Chopra recently, thus spurting up speculations that they have soft corner for each other. They are endorsing a soap brand togther. Now, Sreesanth has managed to divert the topic by claiming that it is the Bollywood actresses who run after cricketers and not vis versa.

He also declared that he is very much single and ready to mingle. Are the Bollywood heroines ready to run after him?

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Aishwarya highest paid Bollywood actress

2008-03-20T06:26:00.000-07:00

With Aishwarya Rai carrying home a pay packet of Rs 40 million for her proposed stint as Rajnikanth's leading lady in Shankar's Robot, she has now become the highest-paid actress in Indian cinema. "Yes, it's close to Rs.40 million. And she's very amused when she reads that she is the highest-paid actress in Bollywood. With three hits in a row, Guru, Dhoom 2 and Jodhaa Akbar, Ash's equity as a Rai and a Bachchan have gone through the roof," said a source close to Aishwarya.

"It is no surprise that Aishwarya is getting Rs.40 million. It's still chicken feed compared with what Rajnikanth carries home," a source said.

"The dubbed Hindi version of Chandramukhi came and went. And Rajni's biggest hit Shivaji - The Boss is in no hurry to be released in Hindi. With Ash in Robot it looks like an attractive non-regional film," said another source close to the project.

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Exclusive: Sex Cats of Bollywood!

2008-03-17T07:03:00.000-07:00

There are coy and there are cute. And then there are the cats. What are we talking about? We are referring to Bollywood’s womenfolk. We know of some beauties that let their eyes do all the talking and cast a spell on the audiences.

Every time they are on a prowl, the boys cry ‘Sexy eyes’. Here are Bollywood’s very own catty women.

Kareena Kapoor

A far cry from other star actresses, Kareena Kapoor is one helluva cat-eyed beauty. Gifted with sharp hazel eyes, Bebo never fails to charm us with her expressive eyes.

In films like Refugee and Dev, her crystal clear eyes gave away the innocence of her character.

Otherwise, her well-outlined eyes add a tinge of playfulness and mischief to her glam characters. The spell her eyes cast was unbreakable when Kareena turned “Kannagi” in the historic Asoka.

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Hrithik Roshan can't thank Shah Rukh enough

2008-03-14T07:15:00.000-07:00

Shah Rukh Khan went out of his way to accommodate the Roshans by shooting an item song for their production Krazzy 4, and Hrithik can't thank the busy Khan enough. "I'm doing the song for my own home production. But Shah has gone out of his way to accommodate the project because he respects dad. His gesture has touched all of us. It's very kind of him. He doesn't need to dance."

Hrithik can't stop raving about the item song. "It's the best dance track I've ever performed. My uncle Rajesh Roshan has outdone himself. And Vishal Dadlani who has sung the number has also been extremely gracious. He didn't accept the cheque that my dad gave him after the song. He did it for my dad and uncle. As a family we Roshans are overwhelmed by the respect that has been shown by everyone associated with the item song."

Tell him it's because of the respect his dad's banner commands and Hrithik corrects me. "No I think it's more to do with the kind of person my father is. If he wasn't the person he is, Shah Rukh, Vishal and everyone else wouldn't have gone out of their way to accommodate us, no matter how successful we may be. I think my dad has earned the respect he gets. He doesn't command it."

Hrithik further informs, "Shah Rukh's version of the song will be part of the main movie, while mine will be used in the end titles, also on MTV, Channel V and other promotional campaigns for television."

The triumphant Jodhaa Akbar behind him Hrithik is now looking forward to starting his next film with Anurag Basu. "That's one film I'm really looking forward to. I'm a big fan of Anurag's cinema. I think he's a very sensitive director. He's really going to be doing something different with me. I can't say much about the subject. But it will be a different experience for me, though something right up his alley."

The industry was abuzz about Sonam Kapoor being Hrithik's leading lady in Anurag's film. "Both Dad and I think Sonam is wonderful. But she was never considered for Anurag's film. The role requires someone from abroad. So yeah, I'll have an international co-star in Anurag's film."

Hrithik and Aishwarya looked pretty international in Dhoom 2 and Jodhaa-Akbar. "I can't dispute that. It's so true. Ash and I share a fabulous rapport. It's always fun to work with a co-star who isn't selfish. We both gave so much of ourselves to Jodhaa Akbar. Aishwarya has been one of my most helpful co-stars. I really cherish working with her. She is an incredible actor and an even better co-star. And since all three of us-Abhishek, Aishwarya and I-are friends; we've great fun even when not shooting."

Hrithik craves for the perfect chemistry with his co-star. "I don't think it's possible for me to give my best if my co-star isn't doing the same. I try to surround myself with like-minded people. And I think I've found the right people operating at my frequency to work it, be it Ashutosh Gowariker, Sanjay Gadhvi, Aditya Chopra or my dad. I'm fortunate, I guess."
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"Both SRK and Aamir are number one"

2008-03-14T07:11:00.000-07:00

The diplomatic Hrithik refused to be drawn into the numner one controversy and said that both Shahrukh Khan and Aamir Khan are number one. In the on going battle for top status in Bollywood, actor Hrithik Roshan entered the fray and commented on the war of words between the two Khans.

The two Khans were seen taking potshots at each other over the past few days. When Hrithik was quizzed about who he felt held the number one position in Bollywood, he said that, "Everyone is good and I get completely inspired with every actor in the industry." He also diplomatically said that both the Khans are number one and he does not even figure in the top names

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Bollywood : Shahrukh Khan ’s television troubles

2008-03-13T05:46:00.000-07:00

Shahrukh Khan is all set to host a unique show on Star T.V. that sees him at direct loggerheads with a show by the Big B Amitabh Bachchan in another channel and also causes some date clashes with his other foray in the Indian premier League Cricket championship.

The cold war between Shahrukh and Amitabh will be out in the open when their T.V. shows go on air at the same time. Big B has been approached by Zee Television to host a game show, which would take on Star Plus’ Kya Aap Paanchvi Pass Se Tez Hain to be hosted by Shahrukh Khan. This is the Indian version of “Are you smarter than a 5th grader”.

Punit Goenka son of Zee head Subhash Chandra Agarwal has been egging on Big B to take up the role of anchor of a new show on Zee but the latter has not been keen if his show will be slotted against Shahrukh’s show at the same time. Their rivalry on the idiot box dates back to when Shahrukh replaced Amitabh as anchor of the hit show, Kaun Banega Crorepati.

More trouble ahead for Shahrukh. The dates of airing “ Kya Aap…”on April 18 will coincide with the launch of the Indian Premier League (IPL) tournament wherein SRK owns the Kolkata franchise

The actor is trying to delay the television show dates, as IPL dates cannot be changed. According to a source, “The IPL’s 44-day cricket bonanza begins on April 18 and will have a total of 59 T20 matches. His TV show begins on the same date and will be telecast 8 pm onwards on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, clashing with the IPL telecast on Max on weekends, 8 pm onwards. Shahrukh is extremely worried about the timings.”

The television show is sponsored by Airtel on Star T.V. and the IPL matches by its rival Vodaphone on Sony T.V. There is a clash between broadcasters as Shahrukh is brand ambassador for Airtel.

Siddharth Basu of Synergy Communications, would announce the timings of the T.V. show shortly.

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Korbo, Lorbo & Jeetbo strategy for Kolkata Knight Riders

2008-03-13T05:40:00.000-07:00

Shah Rukh Khan considers himself to be a better human being than an actor, gives himself an eight on 10 as a sports enthusiast and a big zero in business matters, yet he is confident that there is money to be made from cricket in order to promote other sport.

The 'king' of Bollywood, whose company Red Chilies Entertainment is the franchisee of the Kolkata team in the BCCI-sponsored IPL, outlined his vision for the Knight Riders during a formal launch in Kolkata. "We have named our team Kolkata Knight Riders because I want to appeal to the youth of the country," he said.

In his typical self-effacing style, Khan said that as the Knight Riders had gifted him a No 12 jersey, he would happily carry the drinks as the 12th man. "I feel, in sport, you either win or lose the gold (medal). There is nothing like winning a silver. So we have chosen gold and black as our team's colours. The gold signifies our winning mentality," said Shah Rukh while unveiling the team jersey designed by Manish Malhotra.

King Khan missed no trick in making his team's promotional show a hit. "I'm an entertainer myself and am sure the Knight Riders too will entertain each and every individual of this city with their game, and, win the tournament as well," he promised. Video promos of the Kolkata team were shown on two giant screens and with the team theme song sung and composed by Vishal Shekhar playing in the background.

Shah Rukh also unveiled the logo (a golden helmet) and mascot (tiger 'Hoog-Lee') of the team and appealed to Bengalis to support his team. "Inshallah, we'll win the cup," he said.

In a politically correct move, Shah Rukh not only invited CAB chief Prasun Mukherjee to share the dais with him, but also gave an assurance that his company will not only work out a mutually-acceptable ticket-sharing formula but also price them low so that even common people can enjoy the IPL show.

"Sourav and his team members have agreed to shake a leg with us. And I am always there for you," said Shah Rukh, who will be in Kolkata for all the seven home games that the Knight Riders will play at the Eden Gardens.

Asked why he chose Kolkata over other places, Shah Rukh turned on his charm and quoted Rabindranath Tagore. "Aamar sonar Bangla, ami tomai bhalobashi," he said amid thunderous applause. "These are the only Bengali words I know, but Sourav has promised to teach me a few more, including some swear words," Shah Rukh chuckled.

There are three other Bengali words — Korbo (will do it), Lorbo (will fight), Jeetbo (will win), that Shah Rukh has come to love, for they feature in his team's theme song sung by Vishal Sekhar. According to Shah Rukh, the words fitted in nicely with the brand of cricket his skipper Sourav Ganguly has played all these years.

"I have been a great admirer of Sourav all these years and like you, I also like his fighting spirit and winning mentality. That is what the Kolkata Riders will bring to the table. We want to be the best team out there," Shah Rukh added.
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I said KkkKiran…Aamir really loves Kkkkiran" - Shahrukh Khan

2008-03-13T05:37:00.000-07:00

“My wife has warned me if I say anything about Aamir she'll beat me up. She is an Aamir Khan fan,” said Shahrukh Khan replying to the raging controversial fire fanned by Aamir Khan yesterday by posing a question to SRK as to how does it feel being No. 2 to Aamir? Shahrukh was addressing the media along with his Indian Premiere League team Kolkata Knight Rider's Captain Saurav Ganguly and a few other players like Ishant Sharma, Akash Chopra and Murali Karthik in Mumbai today. Also present at the event was Juhi Chawla, Jai Mehta, Gauri Khan and Sanjay Kapoor.

“Aamir is a dear friend and if he says that I'm second to him then it's a great compliment to him….oops that was a genuine slip of tongue (amidst peals of laughter)…I mean it's a great compliment to me. We are complete opposites. He is an intelligent, intellectual person, I'm more physical. I do things. He thinks them out. I know his jokes, he knows mine. He is 100% No. 1…I just said Kkkk Kiran…he really loves Kkkkk Kiran (Again a round of collective laughter),” King Khan said lightheartedly.

While there were regular cricketing Q&A too but the Aamir-SRK controversy remained one of the big highlights of the press conference. When a poking journo reminded SRK about a statement, “There's Chengez Khan and then there's Shahrukh Khan” made before the release of Don on comparison with Salman (whose film Jaaneman was releasing simultaneously) and is Aamir upset that his name was excluded, SRK said, “There's Aamir, then there's me and then there's Chengez Khan I guess…that keeps changing….I'm proud of having learnt a lot from Aamir. One of my biggest desires in life is to do a film with Aamir and learn a lot from him. We should not belittle the importance of Aamir Khan by comparing with someone like me. He is a standalone, one of the nicest gentleman and actor in the country.”

As for the cricketing activities, King Khan showcased the hip shaking anthem Korbo Lorbo Jeetro Be which has been composed by Vishal-Shekhar, sung by Vishal Dadlani and directed by Ganesh Hegde. Yes, you shall see the OSO superstar showing a few mean dance moves in a novel attempt to glamourise cricket like never before. In an attempt to make cricket more entertaining, there was a live video conferencing with Knight Rider's mascot Hoog Lee, a laidback and fun Bengali tiger. And this is what Hoog Lee had to say:

Boys, girls, ladies and gentlemen
Let me bring you all 'the King's men'

We'll make you choke and lose your wicket
And I'm not just simply talking cricket

To slam a boundary or spin a googly
I'm your man and the name is…..HOOG LEE!

The Creed of Kolkota Knight Riders is tough and aggressive having the hard core competitive streak exemplified by its owner itself. Time to check it out:

We fight for passion. We fight for glory.
We believe no dream is too big to achieve.
We believe in winning in the game of life in spite of all the odds.
We believe losing is not an option.

We are here to conquer.
We are the Knight Riders.
We are the King's Men. We rule!

The ruthless creed also rubs onto a few of the names coined for a few individual players. Well Saurav Ganguly (Captain Courageous) and Ricky Ponting (Master Blaster) are regular names but Chris Gayle (Weapon of Mass Destruction), Ishant Sharma (Speed Merchant), Umar Gul (Toe Crusher) and physiotherapist Andrew Leipus (The 'Shape-up' Doc) are both unorthodox, eye catching and makes you say…hey….when do the games begin…Its April 18th that all of us waiting for. Isn't it!

Let's end on a lighter note. A journalist asked Shahrukh that with IPL all set the hog prime time television, what will happen to children looking forward to their cartoons or ladies desperate to follow up on their saas bahu serials. Wouldn't it cause discord in families? “Videocon ke chaar tv khareed lo…koi jhagde nahin honge….(amidst laughter)….tumhara answer bhi ho gaya aur meri branding bhi ho gayi…(laughs all around once again).”

We shall bring all the action in the video of this event soon. And yes, a big plus will be an exclusive video interview with Shahrukh Khan coming your way tomorrow morning where SRK sings his team's anthem….only on Bollywood-king.blogspot.com.

Now, SRK takes on Aamir!

2008-03-13T05:32:00.000-07:00

We all know Shah Rukh Khan loves to entertain.

Now, the actor takes entertainment to another level by combining a heady mix of Bollywood star power and the country's favourite game -- cricket.

Also see: Cricket matters to SRK!

The recent owner of Indian Premier League (IPL)'s Kolkata cricket team, called Knight Riders, King Khan officially announced all the members of his team in a press conference held in Mumbai.

Don't miss: SRK wins IPL bid

Represented by their mascot, Hoog Lee, also known as the Bengal tiger, Shah Rukh's Knight Riders comprises of Saurav Ganguly (captain), Ricky Ponting , Shoaib Akthar, Chris Gayle, Ajit Agarkar , Brandon McCullum, Umar Gul, Tatenda Taibu, Ishant Sharma, Murli Karthik, David Hussey, Akash Chopra, Cheteshwar Pujara. John Buchanan (coach) Adrew Leipus (physiotherapist) and Adrian Le Roux (fitness trainer).

While the event was interesting in itself (the cricketers were presented with golden helmets which symbolised excellence), what came later was more entertaining when the Shah Rukh was asked to comment on Aamir Khan's dig about him preferring to be second.

Shah Rukh, in his usual affable self, cheekily replied, "I consider it a compliment for him, oops sorry, compliment for me, that was a genuine slip of tongue. It is indeed a great compliment that he at least considers me second to him. We are very good friends and we both have a good sense of humour. So I understand his jokes and so does he. He is a great man and an intellectual, while I am more instinctive. He does more of the thinking and I do more of the acting."

Meanwhile, the musical duo Vishal-Shekar has come up with a music video choreographed by Ganesh Hegde as a part of the promotions for the IPL.

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Meet Hrithik's Mexican beauty

2008-03-13T01:16:00.000-07:00

Hrithik Roshan has now found a partner for his forthcoming film, 'Kites', as dad, Rakesh Roshan has successfully roped in top Latin actress, Barbara Mori as the leading lady.

The film has Kangna Rawat too and is set to be directed by Anurag Basu, while the melodious music will be given by Rajesh Roshan. The remaining cast for this film is being finalized in Bombay and Los Angeles.

The film, Kites is to be shot in New Mexico, Las Vegas and Los Angeles. The film is another Film Kraft Production's presentation and is scheduled to go into production by the end of July 2008.
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'Hrithik is a super dad'

2008-03-13T01:11:00.000-07:00

"I'm not bald, but shave my head everyday," insists Rakesh Roshan when I pose to him my first question about bald men and shiny pates. He lets me in on his 'bold' story, before going on to talk about Hrithik and Jodhaa Akbar , another conquer of sorts for Duggu. And people thought Hrithik did well only in Papa Roshan's films. "He proved himself in Lakshya, Dhoom , and now has done extraordinarily well as Akbar . His performance took me by surprise," says Rakesh. "I knew Hrithik can fit into any role, but I wasn't so sure of him as Akbar. I'm glad he waived off my uncertainty. Today, I proudly say that Hrithik is a good actor."

Busy raking in the moolah with having produced and directed blockbusters, complemented with a successful actor-son, two lovely grandchilden, Hrehaan and Suranika, and with one more on the way, life seems to be as rosy for Roshan Sr. as his naturally flushed cheeks. "There are moments and there are moments," says the filmmaker, "You have the ups and the downs. Filmmaking is a labourer's job. The energy and hardwork that goes into making a film cannot be fathomed."

Talking about the 'downs', not many know of Rakesh's elder daughter Sunaina's fight against cervical cancer. "She's a fighter; today she is up and about helping me with the production of my film Krazzy 4 ." About how he coped with the unfortunate occurrence as a father, Rakesh says, "We Roshans are very family oriented. And while she claims to have got her strength from the family, I got mine from there, too."

With the conversation having gone the 'family-way', is Rakesh looking forward to Hrithik's second one, and becoming granddaddy all over again? "You see, I became a father when I was very young, and now I'm a young grand father, too. It's a good thing as you are constantly complimented with: You don't look like a grandfather at all! So, yes, additions to the family always bring joy. More the merrier, I say!"

How is Hrithik as a father? "Hrehaan looks more like Suzanne," informs Rakesh, "But he is completely daddy's boy. Hrithik doesn't allow him to eat chocolate, and has explained to him that it isn't good for him in such a way that Hrehaan will never go near one. Hrithik makes a great father. He isn't strict or stern but has a knack of dealing with children. Offer Hrehaan a chocolate and he'll say, "Chocolate na, daddy pat-pat!" laughs Roshan.
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“Shah Rukh Khan prefers being number two."- Aamir Khan

2008-03-13T01:08:00.001-07:00

Aamir Khan has always said they're friends. And we've always enjoyed the potshots they take at each other. Yesterday, the usually restrained Aamir, who endorses Samsung mobile phones, reacted strongly at an event when he was quizzed about the kind of competition he foresees from Shah Rukh, who is promoting Nokia these days. He retorted, "Shah Rukh Khan prefers being number two."

Interestingly, the quick-witted Shah Rukh is known for taking digs at his fellow Khan on various public platforms, including on Koffee With Karan. The last time Shah Rukh appeared on the popular chat show Karan Johar had asked him, "If you wake up one morning and you realise that you've turned into Aamir, you would…." Pat came the reply from SRK: "I would tell the world that Shah Rukh is the better actor."

Industry insiders have been speculating about the professional rivalry the duo have had for the last two decades. For starters, Aamir was offered Darr but the fussy actor begged out of the project paving way for Shah Rukh, who ultimately shot to fame by stuttering K-K-K-Kiran and stalking Juhi Chawla in the film.

However, the Khans have been admirably silent about their differences except for the occasional snide remarks that they have made while flashing smiles.

Aamir Khan has always been disdainful about film awards. His standard line of offence has been: "I don't believe in awards. Let other actors be happy getting awards." Said suitably deliberately, this casts aspersions at the real acting abilities of star award winners. SRK got his own back last year, when he said at an award function, "Aamir Khan only goes for the Oscars."

Aamir couldn't help reacting to this in an interview to a news channel. He said, "I just feel that if I don't value a particular film award, then I won't attend it either. Apart from the National award, I don't see any other award ceremony that I should attend. My personal experience about these award ceremonies is that I don't trust them. I have no faith in them so I prefer to stay away."

But the star war hit a high of sorts when Aamir tried to acquire a nickname a la SRK. He said, "SRK is the Badshah and I'm the King."
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Aamir Khan taking on Shah Rukh Khan?

2008-03-13T01:00:00.000-07:00

It seems like that the clash of two of the biggest Khans in Bollywood is out in the open with Aamir Khan openly taking a dig at Shah Rukh Khan .

While SRK is the biggest star in Bollywood, Aamir has always paid attention to meaningful cinema rather than focusing on the box office – a move that has earned him tremendous adulation. It was not very long ago that Aamir had taken on SRK when he chose to promote Coca Cola, the rival company of Pepsi, which SRK endorses.

So when Aamir was approached by the mobile company, Samsung, to promote their brand, it seemed to be a direct challenge to SRK, who endorses Nokia.

Samsung is aiming to double its market share in India and they have now Aamir endorsing their products.

At the press meet, when a journalist asked Aamir how he perceives competition from SRK, Aamir grinned, "As always, Shah Rukh Khan prefers to come second."

The Taare Zameen Par actor-director denied that he was joining Indian Cricket League or will own any cricket team in the future like SRK, who owns the Kolkata team for Indian Premier League.

"I am not purchasing any team but as a fan, I love to watch cricket," Aamir said.

For information, Hrithik Roshan endorses Sony Ericsson Mobile Phones in India while Motorola has Abhishek Bachchan .

I wish Preity the best: Shah Rukh Khan

2008-03-13T00:55:00.000-07:00

Shah Rukh Khan was in town to talk about cricket and the Kolkata Knight Riders. We caught up with the Bollywood superstar after the press meet and quizzed him on his first love, Bollywood:

Enough of cricket. Are you aware that Rakhi Sawant has challenged you in the item act?

In an item act? (Laughs) Well Rakhi did her first film with us,'Main Hoon Na'. I have a highest regard for her personality and I wish her all the best. At this stage, I think it would be really strange for Rakhi to challenge me and for me to accept it…I wish her success and am sure she will win the item act.

The sky seems to be the limit. A Shah Rukh Khan wax statue is to be installed in France's Grevin Wax Museum. You are the only Indian after Mahatma Gandhi to have a statue there…

I think it is a great honour. I have already been honoured with the highest civilian honour by the French government. It's an honour for the films I have done. It's the Indian economy and Indian films that are reaching out. I simply happen to be riding on that vehicle — sometimes the package starts looking nice because the content is good. I am lucky.

That's modesty, isn't it?

With all humility I truly believe that it is the essence of India and Indian cinema that is reaching further. I am very glad I was born in this time of acting and have made a kind of an impact. I have been to France for Veer-Zaara and saw how the people who came to watch were not just Indians. This is a really good sign.

Is there is no end to Shah Rukh Khan rediscovering himself?

I was always like this and I am like that. People say I have a great business mind but I say no. Some people say that I am an intelligent person but I say no. I always have great belief when I wake up in the morning. And that's where the energy comes from.

Preity Zinta wants Kolkata and Mohali to play in the IPL finals…

I wish her the best. She is confident that she will reach the finals but I will not make tall claims like that. Honestly, on behalf of my team, I would like to say that we hope to play cricket that everybody cherishes and in that process we reach the finals.

Tell us something about your love for Kolkata…

As a sporting city it is the best. People out here have a passion. The city has a history. When I start talking I end up with Subhash Chandra Bose, Rabindranath Tagore and Satyajit Ray.
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Amitabh Bachchan is not returning to TV

2008-03-13T00:52:00.000-07:00

There was speculation that Bollywood mega superstar Amitabh Bachchan will host a game show on Zee TV.

But the news has been has been declared baseless by a close personal friend of Mr. Bachchan. Right now, the Big B has no any plan to step into the small screen, as he would like to concentrate on films only.

Zee TV head honcho, Punit Goenka did approach Mr. Bachchan to host a game show to compete with Star Plus’ new quiz show, Kya Aap Paanchvi Pass Se Tej Hai? to be hosted by superstar Shah Rukh Khan .

So in the wake of competition, Zee TV planned to launch a show with Mr. Bachchan as the anchor but he had turned down the request of Zee due to his hectic schedule and prior assignments.

Mr. Bachchan, who earlier entertained the masses with ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati’, will concentrate only on films as of now.

SRK's show will roll on TV very soon. But the masses have to wait some more time to see their favorite star Mr. Bachchan in their drawing room.
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Abbas-Mustan: Akshay is worth Rs 42 crores

2008-03-13T00:50:00.000-07:00

Akshay Kumar is nothing like the long-haired actor he was when he started his career. His looks, box office appeal and pay packet has hugely improved.

So when we asked director brothers Abbas-Mustan -- who gave Akshay his first hit with Khiladi -- whether they would pay Akki Rs 42 crore for a film, they did not see anything wrong with it.

"Akshay Kumar is a very hard working and dedicated actor. He reaches the shoot even before the scheduled time," Abbas says. "He works for 15 to 18 hours a day."

"It is because of his interest in his work that the producer saves a lot of money. If we plan a 20-day shoot, we finish work in 10 days. So there is nothing wrong in it. Akshay's presence is a big asset for any film," Mustan adds.

After Khiladi, Abbas-Mustan worked with Akshay in the 2004 hit, Aitraaz. Now, the brothers are planning another film with the star, who has been grateful to the directors for giving him a break in the film industry.

So will they pay Akshay the same kind of money? "We have a different rapport with Akshay. He will not charge us that much," Abbas replies.

Akshay's fee has skyrocketed since last year after he gave four consecutive hits with Namaste London , Heyy Babyy, Bhool Bhoolaiya and Welcome.

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Akshay Kumar turns Producer

2008-03-13T00:48:00.000-07:00

After ruling the Box Office since past couple of years, Akshay Kumar now will soon be launching his own production banner, ‘Hari Om’.

Shah Rukh Khan did it, Aamir, Ajay, Sanjay Dutt and Saif did it too; after becoming successful, they launched their own production houses. Well, so has Akshay now! 18 years in the film industry, Akshay will be venturing into a new area of filmmaking business. Before wasting further time, he has also decided to work with new directors for his production films and give India some world-class cinema.

And since Akshay has always encouraged new talents, his first film will be helmed by a debutant director. This would be his token of appreciation to the film industry. Way to go Akki!

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'Singh is Kinng' starring Akshay and Katrina nearly complete

2008-03-13T00:44:00.000-07:00

Bollywood's most exciting on screen pair, Akshay Kumar and Katrina, will film a song sequence for their next film together, Singh is Kinng, in Egypt next month with the pyramids as the backdrop, wrapping up the production of the film.

Katrina and Akshay featured together in two of last year's most successful films Namastey London and Welcome.

Their pairing is reminiscent of the Shah Rukh Khan - Kajol pairing which never failed to produce a hit, starting with Baazigar (1993), Karan Arjun (1995), Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge (1995), Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998) and Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001).

Singh is Kinng is directed by Anees Bazmee and additionally stars Om Puri, Kiron Kher, Javed Jaffery, Neha Dhupia and Sonu Sood. It was initially slotted for release on August 15 but the date was moved forward to August 8, to avoid a fratricidal clash with Abhishek Bachchan starrer Drona.

Produced by Vipul Shah in collaboration with Adlabs, Singh is Kinng is touted as an ode to the people from Punjab.

Production began in November 2007 in Australia where, nearly half the film was shot using a predominantly Australian crew. The rest of the film has been shot in Punjab and Mumbai.

Elaborating on the planned shoot in Egypt, Vipul Shah told IANS, "We'll be shooting the introductory song of the lead pair. This will be where Akshay first meets Katrina. The film is complete after this."

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Health Concern- Kareena Kapoor collapses!

2008-03-13T00:40:00.000-07:00

Kareena Kapoor looks stunning in the Aditya Chopra's Tashan but all this came at a serious health cost. The actress who had reduced to 48 kgs with a waistline of 23 inches collapsed during a shot and raised concerns about her health. Kareena had stopped eating a few days before the shoot and been on only orange juice diet to look perfect in a bikini shot. Saif Ali Khan was very concerned about the incident and asked her to eat properly and put on some weight.

The actress however dismissed the incident calling it a minor health scare. She is however joining hots of international celebrities like Angelina Jolie who suffer from anorexia a medical disorder where a person looses his appetite.

Kareena clubs with a host of Bollywood stars who have gone through grueling dieting schedule including Shahrukh Khan for Om Shanti Om and Bipasha Basu and Aishwarya Bachchan for Dhoom 2.
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Aishwarya - the Pink Panther

2008-03-13T00:37:00.000-07:00

Aishwarya’s true colour -- pink

While it’s no secret that girls all over the world love pink, the latest to have joined the brigade is none other than Ms Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. Contrary to popular beliefs that Aishwarya is a Red Riding Hood (credit goes to the promos of Jodha Akbar and her bridal trousseau), the actress seems to be very much in love with pink. A colour associated with fairy tale romances, it should come as little surprise to us that the actress has been donning pink outfits at formal dos since her romance and marriage to Bollywood’s then most eligible bachelor - Abhishek Bachchan.

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Aamir, Kareena to buy ICL teams?

2008-03-13T00:35:00.000-07:00

PANCHKULA: Now, it’s Khan versus Khan in cricket too!

As Shah Rukh Khan launched his IPL team Kolkata Knight Riders on Tuesday, it was learnt that Indian Cricket League (ICL) team Lahore Badshahs will be taken over by his Bollywood rival Aamir.

Kareena Kapoor, who won all the awards this year for her role in Jab We Met , will take over another ICL team — Mumbai Champs.

ICL sources informed that instead of buying the teams, both Aamir and Kareena are going for multiple sponsorships with the Lahore Badshahs and Mumbai Champs, respectively.

According to the deals, Lahore Badshahs’ players like Inzamam-ul-Haq, Azhar Mahmood and Mohammad Sami will feature in the promotions of Aamir’s films in the future. Aamir and the other stars of his film will also perform in the ICL matches that the Lahore Badshahs will play.

"These players will also promote Aamir’s films in Pakistan," a source close to the team said.
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Aamir playing the number game

2008-03-13T00:32:00.000-07:00

Egos are as large in Bollywood as the lavish multi-crore productions themselves. The star wars in the tinsletown just got a little more exciting, when an unexpected player entered the frame.

Aamir Khan may be best known as Bollywood's Mr Perfectionist but of late he has turned into Mr Competitive.

"Well what can I say Shah Rukh always likes to be in the second position," said Aamir.

And that's not all, when asked that if he had a chance to interview Shah Rukh Khan what will his first question be, the actor said, "Thats a tricky question. I would ask Shah Rukh how does it feel to be second after Aamir?"

This seemed to be becoming a case of Khan v/s Khan, but does this confine to Bollywood or has it extended to cricket as well?

According to Aamir it's not true at all. "No no, not at all, it is a rumour. I am not buying anything and I have nothing to do with ICL. I love cricket and I love to watch the game," he said.
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Zayed Khan puts on 11 kg in new movie

2008-03-13T00:29:00.000-07:00

Gone are the days when a diminutive Salman Khan was shown beating a baddie twice his size. The fights now are among equals. For the climactic battle in Apoorva Lakhia's "Mission Istanbul", the reed-thin Zayed Khan put on 11 kg and weighed 75 kg for the first time in his life. All because he had to take on the movie's bad man Niketan Dheer, who was 6 feet 4 inches tall and weighed 86 kg.

Zayed was excited when he was told about the climactic situation and requirement.

"I suddenly had to weigh way beyond what I ever usually did. I had to match this guy because there was a lot at stake for me. 'Mission Istanbul' sapped me. This project meant a lot to me," Zayed said.

Zayed's director Apoorva Lakhia has pushed him to the limit. "Two days before the climactic scene was to be shot, he gave me the picture of a guy, who was 6 feet 4 inches tall and built like a rock. He looked like a mountain. With a straight face, he told me I had to fight this guy and had to look sinewy enough to look like his adversary.

"I thought Apoorva was joking. Since I played a journalist in the film, I wondered why I needed to do this. But my director was firm," Zayed said.

Zayed put on weight and toned his body to play a combative journalist.

"And to play the television journalist, I have studied the best in business. This is the kind of project that spurs you into exploring new facets of your personality. I want to be known as an actor who prepares for his roles," the actor said.
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'Black & White' criticism puzzles Subhash Ghai

2008-03-13T00:24:00.000-07:00

Bollywood showman Subhash Ghai is puzzled with reports that more than "The Devil's Own", his recent release "Black & White" seems to replicate Joseph Costelo's "The War Within", where a closet terrorist arrives in New York, befriends a benign Muslim family and plans to blow up the Grand Central. "I've never heard of 'The War Within'. In 'Devil's Own', the terrorist succeeds in his mission. In 'Black & White', the point is we need to kill terrorism, not terrorists. That really touched me," Ghai told IANS.

The film, about a terrorist, who comes to Chandni Chowk to blow up the Red Fort on Aug 15, is a well-made film. One of the unique aspects of "Black & White" is the casting of veteran stage actor Habib Tanvir.

"Casting for the part of the young terrorist (played by debutant Anuraag Sinha) and for this wise old man of Chandni Chowk was very tough. I got Habib saab to play a man who sheltered Hindus in his home during Partition. Eventually, he sold all his property for a pittance."

Ghai says Habib Tanvir was reluctant to work in his movie.

"Finding the right actor with a specific heritage, culture, personality and face was really tough. I didn't want to cast anybody stereotypical. Even Dilip Kumar wouldn't have worked. My casting agent suggested Habib Tanvir. He was reluctant to begin with me. He wondered what he'd do in a Subhash Ghai film! I told Habib saab, 'Subhash Ghai has gone crazy. He wants to make an unusual film.' When he heard me out, he loved my subject and my command over Urdu."

The film also has Anil Kapoor, who has given a stellar performance.

Some bitter reviews, however, have left Ghai undeterred.

"They aren't angry with my film. They're angry with Subhash Ghai because I have not made a typical 'masala' movie. When I was doing that, I was told, 'You've opened an acting school, so now make a sensible film.'

"Now that I've made a sensible film, they're wondering what has happened to Subhash Ghai. They're judging Subhash Ghai, not the film. I had a story that I needed to tell at this point of my career. I'm not demoralised by reviews. The world has torn Jesus and Gandhi to shreds. Who am I? Today, even artist M.F. Husain isn't in our country. These brickbats don't matter to me."

Ghai reminisces about the ups and downs in his career.

"According to critics, I came down with a thud in 1982 when 'Krodhi' didn't work after two hits, 'Kalicharan' and 'Vishwanath'. Then I made three hits - 'Vidhaata', 'Karz' and 'Hero'. Then when 'Trimurti' didn't work in 1993, the critics wrote that Ghai had lost his magic. I bounced back with 'Khalnayak', 'Pardes' and 'Taal'. Then the moment, 'Yaadein' opened badly they decided to write me off on Friday itself."

Ghai says that too many channels and newspapers are responsible for this kind of reporting.

"Now I understand one thing. Today, there's a lot of change in the media. The hunger for news today drives the media to extremes. Abhishek Bachchan-Aishwarya Rai getting married peacefully isn't news, but some crazy girl barging into a wedding claiming to be his wife is bigger news.

"In the 1980s, there were only six newspapers and one TV channel. The media is busy creating vertical rather than horizontal news. If 10 people of calibre have appreciated 'Black & White', why should I be bothered with five people who think a theme like terrorism is an occasion for them to be clever and cheeky with words?"

There's jubilation at Ghai's office.

"We're very happy with 'Black & White'. We are uncorking our own champagne and celebrating. Never mind the personal slant of the comments. Have they said anything nice about 'Jodhaa Akbar' or any other recent film? God bless them because even readers laugh at these opinionated critics.

"There're actors who are serious entertainers; the others are comedians. Some of our media commentators have become light entertainers. They're only interested in playing with words. They've the right to spoof my reviews, if it makes them happy."

Ghai says he was prompted by the world around him to make "Black & White".

"Music of a different Sufi kind has been used in 'Black & White'. Music has always been important in my films. 'Taal' was a full-on musical because it was about musicians. Although 'Karz' was a murder mystery, it was still formatted as a musical. In 'Black & White', there's no place for music. The protagonist doesn't like music. The music had to be the kind that the protagonist somehow had to tolerate.

"Anuraag Sinha's character had to go through a change. And music had to be a part of that change. The explosion finally happens within him rather than outside. I asked my composer Sukhvinder to give me a score without any disco or item songs. How many critics have noticed this?"

For those who think "Black & White" isn't Ghai's territory, the showman has an answer. "Tell me, haven't I made 'Jogger's Park' earlier? 'Black & White' was shot over a period of 40 days at Chandni Chowk at a cost of Rs.65 million. It's a profitable venture, no matter how we look at it."

Ghai is full of praise for debutant Anuraag, who got into the skin of his character.

"I'm happy for my hero. I really like that boy. He's a very good actor and a humble human being. He's an educated soft-spoken boy from a good family. Mumbai hasn't polluted him as yet. No matter what the fate of 'Black & White' is, I'll make another film with him."

He is optimistic to the core.

"My next film 'Main Yuvraaj' is a typical Subhash Ghai film. I've enjoyed big sets sounds and am moving with times. 'Main Yuvraaj' is ahead of its times. I'm lucky to have A.R. Rahman to compose the music. We're planning a Diwali release."

In "Main Yuvraaj", Ghai works with Salman Khan for the first time.
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Don’t ask Katrina about Salman Khan

2008-03-13T00:21:00.000-07:00

If you are chatting with Katrina Kaif make sure that you don’t mention Salman Khan’s name.

Though they are seeing each other they refuse to talk about their relationship. In fact, Katrina is known to get very angry when she is asked anything about her superstar boyfriend.

The actress doesn’t mind answering questions about her family, but when it comes to love life, her lips are sealed. We wonder why the secrecy!

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Reema Sen makes a comeback with Govinda

2008-03-13T00:13:00.000-07:00

Ok, so yes there are number of Sen girls out there in the B town and most of them are doing quite good for themselves. However, one Sen girl who is raring to make a comeback is Reema Sen.

Well, for those who are still a little confused about what differentiates the Sen girls, Reema Sen is the lovely young woman who made her Hindi debut with HUM HO GAYE AAPKE opposite Fardeen Khan and later followed it up with JAAL - THE TRAP (Sunny Deol). Though she may want to forget the experience of JODI KYA BANAYI WAH WAH RAMJI (Amar Upadhyay), her last release at the box office - MALAMAAL WEEKLY (Riteish Deshmukh) - was a hit though.

Now two years after the release of this Priyadashan directed film, Reema Sen is making a comeback of sorts with CHAL CHALA CHAL. A comedy by Rajiv Kumar, the film has Reema paired opposite Govinda. Though the film has been ready for some time, it would finally be seeing a release this April. CHAL CHALA CHAL also stars Rajpal Yadav, Om Puri, Asrani and Manoj Joshi.

Apart from CHAL CHALA CHAL, Reema Sen is also a part of Manmohan Mahapatra's BITS AND PIECES. Touted to be an offbeat film, BITS AND PIECES stars Rahul Bose, Nandita Das and Dia Mirza apart from Reema.
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Katrina and I will make striking pair

2008-03-13T00:06:00.000-07:00

Katrina Kaif may have lost the chance to be one of Ranbir's leading ladies Yashraj Films' Bachna Ae Haseenon. But the lady, currently sizzling with Saif Ali Khan in the promos of Race, didn't have to wait long for Yashraj to make amends.

Katrina has now been signed to star opposite Neil Nitin Mukesh in Kabeer Khan's untitled film which also stars John Abraham in a pivotal role.

Without giving away much detail about the project Neil says, "Kabeer made a very unusual film Kabul Express for Yashraj earlier. This time he's going all-out to make a commercial film. I think Katrina and I will make a striking pair."

Katrina who's paired with Ranbir Kapoor in Raj Kumar Santoshi's Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani seems to be getting into the let's-get-young mode.

All her earlier films are primarily with the 40-plus Salman Khan, Govinda and Akshay Kumar. Now she's finally working with co-stars nearer her own age.

Laughs Neil, "I wouldn't know about that. My bonding so far has been with John. I really get along with him.

He's so funny and entertaining. Somehow he reminds me of Dharamji (Dharmendra) with whom I did my first film Johnny Gaddar. The same towering personality and physique and a heart of gold."

Let's hope the initial camaraderie lasts through the film. Considering what happened to John's dosti with Arshad Warsi during Kabeer Khan's Kabul Express one wonders if the seedha-sadha Neil would be singing the same tune by the time he and John finish shooting together.
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John Abraham loses 12 kilos

2008-03-13T00:03:00.000-07:00

If Shah Rukh Khan can go the distance and get 6-pack abs for his film Om Shanti Om, why can’t John Abraham lose 12 kilos for Kukunoor’s Aashayein? Well, Johnny did just that.

He lost those kilos and became leaner for a role that he defines as ‘by far the best and most interesting character he has played to date’. Now, we know how much John dislikes being unfit, underweight or overweight.

So post the film, he took a 6-month break to put back on the lost kilos, and will return to face the camera tomorrow in Philadephia and then New York for yet another film.

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Bipasha: Could someone gift me a house in Dubai?

2008-03-12T23:59:00.000-07:00

Bipasha Basu, who’s just struck a Dh4 million deal with a jewellery brand, says she wants to buy a house in Dubai but she doesn’t "have that kind of money".

"Why doesn’t someone gift it to me?" she said, in an oblique reference to Shah Rukh Khan.

Last year, Shah Rukh joined Dubai’s swelling celebrity ranks when he was given the keys to a house on the Palm Islands by the developers of the property.

Now Bipasha, in town to promote Dubai nightclub It’s Mirchi, wishes someone would extend the same generosity to her. Are you listening, John Abraham?

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Bips & John's Romanian holiday

2008-03-12T23:56:00.000-07:00

Looks like John Abraham and Bipasha Basu have made their plans for a summer holiday along with John’s family.

The couple is planning to leave for Romania in May to attend John’s younger brother, Alan’s wedding. Alan, who is a professional photographer, is marrying Anka, from Romania.

A close friend of the family says, “John is naturally excited about the wedding. He is very close to his family and is personally looking into the preparations for the marriage.” Incidentally, Alan had recently directed John’s PETA ad. Both Anka and Alan have known each other for some time. John has been very supportive of the relationship.”

The source adds, “Though the wedding date is yet to be finalised, it will be sometime between May 10 and May 20. John is scheduled to leave for Miami to shoot for Karan Johar’s film to be directed by Tarun Mansukhani. While John will reach Romania on May 10 after completing his schedule, his family and Bipasha will join him later.”

When contacted John confirmed the news but refused to divulge any details. Just some small advice for you, John: when in Romania, do as the Romanians do! And Bips, a quick geography question for you as well: how far is Portugal from Romania, babes?
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No problems with John: Dino Morea

2008-03-12T23:54:00.000-07:00

The trend of actors turning producers continues. The latest is, Akshay Kumar has floated his film production firm and will be announcing a film soon. Dino Morea is also keen on starting a film [he had announced a period film sometime back, but the project was shelved due to differences with its director]. In fact, Dino has already started making ad films, to begin with.

“2008 will be a turning point in my career. I have some interesting films lined up for release -- Bhram, Heroes and Anamika. Plus, there’s an item song in Har Pall. I am also keen to start a film before the year-end,” Dino is in an optimistic mood. Besides, Dino is in talks with two reputed production houses. What about Raaz 2? Is he a part of the film? “No, I am not. I guess, there’s no scope for the earlier cast in the sequel. But I would’ve loved to be a part of the film,” he states with honesty.

Dino rubbish rumors of not wanting to act with certain stars. More specifically, John Abraham. “People feel that way because of the Bipasha factor. But there’s no problem with John. We’re thorough professionals, why should it affect our working relationship?” he clarifies.

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Great Khali to the rescue!

2008-03-12T23:50:00.000-07:00


Bollywood calling: Dalip Singh, better known as The Great Khali .

Wrestler Dalip Singh, better known as The Great Khali in the World Wide Entertainment (WWE) international circuit, is growing.

Of course, he can’t get any bigger than he already is at 7’2 and 200-plus kilos, but he’s growing in terms of his popularity in India. His recent ‘big fight’ with five opponents in the ‘No way out’ ring of death, gripped the nation, especially Punjab, where people were backing their hero sporting T-shirts and other accessories.

Khali, originally from Himachal Pradesh, worked with the Punjab Police. He won the Mr India title in 1997 and 1998. In 1999 he went to the US and joined the All Pro Wrestling School. And there was no looking back after that!

Khali lives in Atlanta. But now the 35-year-old is looking at Bollywood and will star in Ramaa — the Saviour, a children’s adventure film, produced by actor Sahil Khan, who plays Ramaa. Sahil says, “I was looking for someone real, but a super human and I’m happy to have found him. I’ve always been a big fan of WWE and Khali.” The movie, which has Tanushree Dutta too, will be shot in Vietnam and Burma. “Khali has a very powerful role,” reveals Sahil, who’s currently acting in Alladin with Amitabh Bachchan, Sanjay Dutt and Riteish Deshmukh.

Incidentally, Khali was very clear that his debut film role should be a positive role. He has a huge fan following among kids in India and that’s mainly why he wanted to avoid playing a negative role. He’s acted in the Hollywood film The Longest Yard and will now be seen in a more prominent role in the upcoming Get Smart starring Steve Carell, Bill Murray and the Rock.

“Dalip is excited about the release and can’t wait for the rest of the world to see how his acting has progressed since the last time,” says Raj Makhija, his business manager in India.

Khali is likely to come to India in a couple of months. So is Bollywood on in a big way for the big man? “He is doing Ramaa — The Saviour . There are other Bollywood offers too that he is considering. He likes Sunny Deol, Sanjay Dutt, Salman Khan and Akshay Kumar and would like to do movies with them,” says Makhija.
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Saif Ali Khan reveals his dour side

2008-03-12T23:04:00.000-07:00

Mumbai: Bollywood star Saif Ali Khan might have a long list of products that he endorses, but he still has some things to learn about endorsing! The actor turned up at a press event for the car that's made him a brand ambassador in an unusually blah mood!

The usually charming Saif displayed his dour side at the press event. When asked about the latest cashless car offer that the brand has launched, here's what the Chotte Nawab had to say:

"I think all Chevrolet cars have done very well ... er er ... as for cashless things, you will have to speak to my manager about that. I don't handle such things," he said.

And this is not the only subject that the actor didn't want to speak about. After some time, it started to seem like he wasn't in a mood to talk about anything — even about Kareena.

This is what he said when questioned about his lady love: "Next question please."

And this is what he had to say for hi forthcoming flick, Race: "I am excited about the film as any actor would be. Next question please."

Perhaps it's the jet lag from a whirlwind European schedule, or the frustration with the constant talk around him and his lady love, Saif sure didn't appeal as much as he does when he carries his witticisms with him.

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Saif’s unsafe stunt!

2008-03-12T23:03:00.001-07:00

Saif Ali Khan never fails to impress us! About a decade back Saif did ‘Ole Ole’ and won the hearts of many women, however he never quite fit the bill of an ‘action hero’. His delicate body frame and chocolate boy looks prevented him from getting into the mould of a khiladi!

However, cut to today. Its 2008 and Saif has never looked this muscular! Saif has worked a lot on his body to look fit for the action scenes of Race and has succeeded in fulfilling his motive. However, in order to shed the excess weight that he had gained post Omkara , Saif didn’t mind sacrificing a lot (errr we are not talking about his sacrifice in terms of cancelling/ postponing his meetings with Bebo to give preference to his work outs!) we are talking about him sacrificing his fear!

We spoke to Abbas Mustan recently and the director duo revealed an interesting little something about Saif to us!

“Saif is scared of heights and suffers from acrophobia.So when we narrated a scene from Race which demanded him to jump from the 22nd floor of a building, he got cold feet and sounded apprehensive to do it initially. However, as an afterthought he accepted the challenge and agreed to do it himself. He was tied with cables and was told that he would be safe, but killing the fear that you’ve nurtured all your life, is not simple! After the first take, Saif got comfortable and jumped three more times to give the best shot!

Saif jumped 4 times and finally overcame his fear”, revealed Abbas.

No wonder Bebo loves this ‘rock star’ nawab! A thorough professional at work and a hopeless romantic otherwise... need a woman ask for more?
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Kareena impresses Saif's kids

2008-03-12T22:58:00.000-07:00

Kareena Kapoor has won the heart of Saif Ali Khan and now its the turn of his kids Ebrahim and Sara. Bebo found out some time from her busy schedule and spent time with Ebrahim. Kareena also purchased some gifts for Ebrahim which included his favourite Play Station war games and some clothes. Saif accompanied Kareena when she went shopping for the gifts.

Kareena and Saif have been trying to get close to each others family. Though Khans family has gelled quite well with Kareena the problem is with Kareena's mother who is not too fond of Saif. The stars will be next seen in the movie Tashan. Kareena tried her level best to impress Saif's kids. Hope they do not have any problems with papa's new girlfriend.
Source

Why Amitabh Bachchan said no to game shows

2008-03-12T22:55:00.000-07:00

Contrary to a report in a tabloid saying the Big B plans to do a game show on Zee TV, the mega-star, currently busy with his various film assignments, has no intention of going into television in the near future.

Says a source close to the Bachchans, "Mr Bachchan has no plans for television right now. After the spectacular success of Kaun Banega Crorepati, there was no dearth of assignments on television. At one point, three or four channels were vying for Mr B's exclusive presence. He was even toying with idea of doing a soap on a channel."

That puts an end to speculations in the media about the Big B's return to television.

Source

It’s embarrassing to be named an icon: Bachchan

2008-03-12T22:54:00.000-07:00

Superstar Amitabh Bachchan unveiled a book on India’s icons by columnist and film critic Anil Dharker here Wednesday, but said he was embarrassed to be included among India’s top 20 iconic people. “I find it embarrassing to be one of the 20 icons. I shouldn’t be there,” said Bachchan, who had come with his wife Jaya for the launch of “Icons: Men & Women Who Shaped Today’s India”.

However, Dharker dismissed the star’s remarks. “Amitabh is just being modest. Humility is important and it comes from knowing that you have achieved a lot but there is so much more to achieve. And the icons know that.”

He added: “The book will give you a sense of our country and where it is headed.”

Dharker’s book singularly establishes the unparalleled greatness and iconic status of men and women like former president A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, Amartya Sen, Amitabh Bachchan, Sachin Tendulkar, M.F. Hussain, Charles Correa and Sonia Gandhi.

The book unfolds the charisma, exceptional destinies, talents and achievements of 20 men and women who continue to shape today’s India.

“While choosing an icon from cricket we couldn’t decide between Sunil Gavaskar and Sachin Tendulkar, so we decided to club them together. So actually there are 21 icons,” Dharker said.

Exclusive: Shahrukh Khan vs Amitabh Bachchan KBC ratings comparision

2008-03-12T22:51:00.000-07:00

Just as Shah Rukh Khan's Don in 2006 paled at the box office in comparision to the 1978 platinum jubilee blockbuster Don featuring Amitabh Bachchan, the ratings of Shahrukh Khan hosted KBC 3 were soundly beaten by the Amitabh Bachchan hosted version also. Though it had not been widely reported in media until now, in an exclusive, below is presented the actual show by show TRP all India ratings comparision of the viewership of KBC II vs KBC III

The opening night of Bachchan's KBC 2 drew an initial of All India TAM rating of a 14.0. That is to say 14% of all TV sets were tuned in to KBC II . The initial for KBC3 hosted by Shah Rukh Khan in comparision was only 9.3% . So the initial of the Amitabh Bachchan hosted version was over 50% higher than the one hosted by Shahrukh Khan.

That trend continued throughout the run of KBC III right through its finale, which featured even Salman Khan with Shahrukh Khan, along with Kareena Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra, but failed to make par. However the TRPs were not close. The 30th episode of KBC3 for example drew only a tepid 3.6 compared to the 7.3 of the corresponding episode featuring Amitabh Bachchan in 2005.

The data shows the peak rating of Shahrukh Khan hosted version was matched or surpassed atleast 5 times by the Bachchan hosted version of KBC, whereas the Shahrukh Khan version was never able to approach the peak ratings of the Bachchan hosted telecasts.

This should put the scale of reach of the two stars as hosts in its proper perspective, regardless of ambiguous reports implying they were both similar ratings phenomena.

The following is a show by show comparision of KBC 2 and KBC 3 ratings viewership in detail:

Source

Underworld ka Abhishek Bachchan!?

2008-03-12T22:48:00.000-07:00

Cast and crew of ONE TWO THREE are making Abhishek Bachchan as a butt of their jokes - all in good humor though! This is why they are projecting the character of Tusshar Kapoor in the film as 'Underworld ka Abhishek Bachchan'. How exactly? Well, let's simplify it for you!

In ONE TWO THREE, Tusshar's character is that of a young boy who belongs to the family of underworld. Though his entire family prods him to get his 'career' kick started in underworld activities, his heart is not on the job.

This is why in a song from the film; he is labeled as 'Underworld Ka Abhishek Bachchan'. That's because:

a) Tusshar's character has to take his family tradition forward, just as Abhishek Bachchan was required to considering the Bachchan surname

b) In spite of repeated attempts/chances/opportunities, Tusshar is shown to be struggling to get his feet in the right place and unable to perform a 'crime' right. Now it's a known fact that Abhishek too had a dozen off flops to his name before he hit it big with YUVA, DHOOM, SARKAR, DUS, BUNTY AUR BABLI, GURU and others!

No wonder, Tusshar's colleagues, friends and family get really annoyed and frustrated with his continued failures.

Must admit that the makers of ONE TWO THREE definitely have some sense of humor here!
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Abhishek's pranks entertain Divya Dutta

2008-03-12T22:45:00.000-07:00

Contrary to talk about how much Abhishek Bachchan has mellowed down, he was still the prankster on the sets of Dilli 6 in Jaipur.

"Has Abhishek really changed?" Divya Dutta wonders. "If this is the mellow Abhishek, I'd like to know what the bratty Abhishek is like. In fact, prior to his marriage, when we worked together in Umrao Jaan, he was far quieter."

"He's used to short women in his life (mom Jaya, favourite co-star Rani Mukerji). And now he has his tallest co-star Sonam Kapoor in the same film. So there's no dearth of variety on the sets," Divya said.

In Jaipur, Abhishek apparently gets food for everyone on the sets.

"He gets us kachauris and all kinds of goodies, but refuses to tuck in himself. He's scared of putting on weight. I don't mind, since I've lost so much weight. The entire atmosphere on the sets is very friendly.

"We're constantly laughing and joking, quite like the people from Chandni Chowk in Delhi, whom we're playing. I even get to feed squirrels with my own hands in Jaipur. Something I've never done before."

Divya got a chance to bond with two of her childhood idols.

"I play Waheedaji [Waheeda Rehman] all her old songs on my iPod. She's so amazed to hear her songs that she had long forgotten. As for Rishi Kapoor, he's so chilled out. I can't believe I'm sitting and chatting with my first crush. And Om Puriji is so much fun."

Divya gets sentimental.

"The Dilli 6 unit has become one big family for all of us. It will be really heartbreaking when we've to move on. I've been lucky. Working with Yash Raj Films in Veer-Zaara and Aaja Nachle, Subhash Ghai in Joggers' Park and Hello Darling and now Rakeysh Mehra in Dilli 6, not for a second do I feel I'm not at home. Now, I need to get lucky in love."

Source

Gulshan to play Abhishek’s father

2008-03-12T22:44:00.001-07:00

Talk about unusual castings this will certainly be the most unusual ever in Bollywood. Well, to begin with director Rakeysh Om Prakash Mehra not only makes thought-provoking films, but also his castings are always most talked about.

And the same is happening with his latest film Dilli 6 , which already boasts of a huge power-packed star cast. And now, he has gone ahead and added another versatile actor to his long star-cast list.

The actor is Gulshan Grover who has been roped in to play Abhishek’s dad in the film. “This role was the most difficult to cast. This character is the backbone of the film and I’m glad Gulshan is a part of it,” says Mehra.

Gulshan is upbeat about the latest development. “I love Mehra’s work. He is one of the finest directors we have now in Bollywood. I am very happy to play this character,” he says. And guess what the icing on the cake is? Amitabh Bachchan playing Gulshan’s father in the film. It will be interesting to see the trio’s combination of baap, beta and badman... all in the same movie.

Bollywood heroines do not have a public persona

2008-03-12T22:39:00.000-07:00

Heroines continue to be the same Barbie dolls

The person is the brand. Inspite of the so-called cultural changes which have taken place in the last two decades or so, the Bollywood heroine continues to be a kind of non-person on the Indian screen.

The reason for this is because the ‘changes’ that you see are merely cosmetic ones. Deep within, our heroines continue to be the same Barbie dolls that they were all those years ago, who go through the motions of loving, living and marrying. All that really changes is the clothes.

When we accidentally created post-feminist icons, Bipasha Basu after Jism and Mallika Sherawat after Murder, I thought that these ladies would be brands to reckon with. These women, as the consumer indicated, had begun to reflect something of the changing times by their attitude.

They were not merely women who looked sexy on the screen, they were also unafraid to be themselves. Those who saw them as merely sex objects missed the point. The persona’s of these women on screen were reflecting a new kind of assertiveness that the Indian woman consumer was herself experiencing or aspiring to experience. They were compensating for something that the consumer was lacking. And that is why they became brands.

With the passage of time, they too began to conform to the dictates of good old male-dominated Bollywood. In order to play it safe, like everybody else, these iconoclastic women pruned themselves of their distinctive attributes. They started doing secondary roles to bigger heroes and were content to take bigger pay checks for smaller roles. They joined the ranks of the face-less, name-less, passion-less and character-less Barbie doll brigade. The only re-inventing that they ever did was on the level of the designer outfit that they sported.

Alas! the Indian heroine has failed to inspire the consumer in any way other than the physical, relating to dress code and beauty. They have failed to express the inner yearnings of the consumers. Winning brands are ones which are loved, not merely liked. But to love something you have to attach your persona with very powerful emotions. But only people can evoke emotions, not props.

Unlike their Hollywood counterparts, who don’t only have body, but also have soul. Bipasha Basu is no Angelina Jolie and Mallika can never hope to be another Scarlett Johansen. For that, you have to be a person, and not a mannequin on which clothes hang well.
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Is Hollywood the new Bollywood?

2008-03-12T22:36:00.000-07:00

Is Hollywood copying Bollywood? This week’s release 10,000 BC features a plot which is pure Bolly-corn: a lost father, a wise old lady, a scantily-clad heroine captured by the evil villain, a hunky hero who rescues her, elephants and a laughable digitally enhanced sabre-toothed telepathic tiger. Bring on the songs!

Bollywood before Gordon Brown

The battle of the waxworks has begun! Gordon Brown may be the Prime Minister of the UK but he has been deemed not worthy enough to justify a £150,000 commission in London’s Madame Tussauds museum. The popular tourist attraction invited Mr Brown earlier this month to be “amongst the select group of people that are made into waxwork figures” but they have had a change of mind.

“We are going to wait for a general election, if there’s a surge of support then we will reconsider,” Ben Lovett, PR spokesperson for Madame Tussauds revealed. Brown therefore will unfortunately not be joining Bollywood A-listers like Shah Rukh Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai and Salman Khan at the world famous institution.

Madame Tussuads is not saying but could their change of mind have anything to do with Brown’s alleged refusal to be immortalised in wax? If this is true, it means that the British PM has a lot in common with our own intelligent actor Aamir Khan who has stated that he is not keen at all to be a dummy.

She’s worth it

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan’s international acting career may be on hold – her last release The Last Legion with Sir Ben Kingsley and Colin Firth crashed at the global box-office. However her global brand endorsement continues to enjoy a high visual profile. Ash is currently in the L’Oreal ads on television for the world’s ‘first glossy black mascara’ and in full page ads in many international beauty and celebrity magazines. Amongst articles titled ‘I am ready for a new man’ and ‘Dare you date like a man?’, Ash can be found pouting that she’s worth it in April’s issue of the UK chick-mag, Company.

Diplomatic Diva

Race, released next week, features divas Bipasha Basu and Katrina Kaif. The buxom Basu is keen to deny any suggestion that she is miffed with the producers for highlighting her British co-star by filming an additional song on Kaif and leading man Saif Ali Khan. Basu says: “I have no complaints whatsoever. The song was always there. Initially it was to be filmed in Durban, then Dubai but they couldn’t film the song for some reason or the other.”

Bollywood goes to Walford?

“I am really thinking of British cinema,” married actress Mahima Chaudhry stated last Saturday. Chaudhry attended the opening of the 10th annual Tongues of Fire Film Festival at Bafta in London’s West End. The festival seeks to highlight Asian women’s achievement in cinema. The Pardes actress does not want to go to Hollywood as “even the blacks are having difficulty breaking through in American cinema”. Maybe Chaudhry should audition for British telly serial EastEnders? If she is successful, she will join fellow Indian actress Meneka Das (Little Box of Sweets) who made her soap debut in the fictional London suburb of Walford earlier this week.

Bollywood at Wallmart

Bollywood’s foothold into North America continues with retail giant Wallmart deciding this week to sell Bollywood DVDs in 27 of their Canadian stores. Titles available include the Three Men and a Baby copy, Heyy Babyy with Akshay Kumar which is Bollywood’s first DVD to be released on the high definition Blue Ray disc format.

Gym blues

Bollywood’s original gym bunny Sanjay Dutt collapsed whilst working out in the gym last Saturday. The Munna Bhai star is currently trying to achieve an “eight pack” for his forthcoming film Blue in order to top Shah Rukh Khan’s recently revealed six-pack in the blockbuster, Om Shanti Om. Here’s wishing the newly-wed Sanjay Dutt a speedy recovery.

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Bollywood’s stage might!

2008-03-12T22:30:00.000-07:00

Needless to say, the badshahs and babes of B’wood rocked the night, and the Pune-ites got a good dose of entertainment.

Salman Khan seems to be on a sunshade spree... we’ve seen him sport three different pairs in the past week itself (he even changed his shades for two back-to-back events the other afternoon!). Here though, he stuck to his one pair through the event, his black glasses contrasting with his white pants and white coat.

Also in white pants and a white shirt was singer Shaan, whose melodious voice made his female fans drool. One of Bollywood’s new arrivals, Shabbir Ahluwalia, also performed, his rugged look and carefree attitude shining through.

Over to the hot, hot, hot women. There was Sallu’s sister-in-law, Malaika Arora-Khan, who, as always, gave a sizzling performance.

The sizzling Malaika was at her sexiest best (she’s one of the few female stars who does stage shows without wearing leggings because of her perfect skin and to-die-for figure.) It was one of those rare occasions when Salman and Malaika performed at the same event.

Also upping the temperatures were Sameera Reddy and Lara Dutta, both dazzling in silver. Their jhatkas and matkas sure added to the electrifying night.
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Bollywood is Lord of the Rings

2008-03-12T22:27:00.000-07:00

HYDERABAD: Shahrukh Khan and Katrina Kaif are officially the King and Queen of Mobile Content according to a new research.

With Bollywood's popularity at an all time high, IMImobile, a global provider of mobile content and value added services, commissioned a study to find which movie stars are as popular on the mobile screen as they are on the big screen.

Salman Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Akshay Kumar and Sanjay Dutt all make up the male Top 5 most downloaded movie star in terms of mobile content. Deepika Padukone, Priyanka Chopra, Lara Dutta and Aishwarya all feature in the Top 5 of the female category.

The movie 'mobile content' ranges from ring tones of the film's big hits to graphics and wallpapers of the stars and the study from IMImobile takes into account all the Bollywood blockbusters from the last year.

King Khan and Queen Kaif's dominance at the Box Office is translated to the mobile screen with their official coronation as 'the most downloaded movie stars to mobile' in India.

IMImobile has provided Bollywood and Tollywood Ring Tones for the Global Mobile Community for the last seven years but sales are apparently higher than ever. Movie ring tones generate Rs 200 crore annually; with the 50 million mobile phone subscribers downloading approximately 3 lakh ring tones daily, according to trade experts.

Vishwanath Alluri -- CEO and Founder of IMImobile said "India has the fastest-growing mobile population in the world and is projected to reach 400 million by 2010."

He added, “Mobile music downloads top the bill and are currently valued at Rs 160-180 crore (Rs 1.6-1.8 billion) in the domestic market. The music content market is mainly driven by the passion for Bollywood and Tollywood.”

Bollywood producers like King Khan and Farhan Akhtar have used the mobile value-added service (VAS) route and made phenomenal profit even before the release of their latest films Don and Om Shanti Om. Om Shanti Om, with a budget of Rs 45 crore, starring Khan and new comer Deepika Padukone, and was sold to Eros International for a whopping Rs 74 crore, according to industry sources.

Action comes of age in Bollywood

2008-03-12T22:16:00.000-07:00

You saw it in Krrish, a bit more in the Dhoom series.. those air-kicks and high jumps. The good old dhishoom dhishoom has been successfully replaced by high-stylised action and it's only getting better.

Racy and fast paced, these films are made edgier than ever. The next on the anvil is Anubhav Sinha's Cash toplining Ajay Devgan, Suniel Shetty, Zayed Khan and Riteish Deshmukh, in which the action is directed by the Hollywood stunt co-ordinator Antony Stone.

After having increased the style quotient with guns and steel in Dus, Sinha says Cash is a step ahead. "Action is an intricate genre now", he says and adds, "It is meant for the audience who appreciate Die Hard 4 and enjoy the Bond flicks. Though Indian films are yet to match the international budgets, we had to start from somewhere."Action these days is meant for the audience who appreciate Die Hard 4 and enjoy the Bond flicks. Though Indian films are yet to match the international budgets, we had to start from somewhere.

Sham Kaushal, action director of Krrish, Don and Kabul Express feels that the change in techniques in action movies has made the audience to go for it. He strongly believes that the days when one hero used to beat hundreds of villains are long gone.

"Today main revenue comes from the multiplex audience and the idea of one man bashing dozons of goons don't gel with multiplex goers," and adds, "With big filmmakers like Rakesh Roshan and Farhan Akhtar trying to break away from normal norms, the scenario is changing."

Rakesh Roshan too feels the same that audiences were tired of heroes breaking glasses or doors. "Most of the films revolve around family subjects, dramas and love themes and no one seemed to move away from it," says Roshan, adding "I decided I had to take these steps with Krrish, try something different and raise the bar, increase the standard of films being made here."Today main revenue comes from the multiplex audience and the idea of one man bashing dozons of goons don't gel with multiplex goers.

Director Sanjay Gadhvi reveals how he punned Dhoom 2. "The entire film was programmed on the desktop, which enabled us to shoot the film with a lot of perfection." Even the actors are enjoying all their stunts.

While Ajay Devgan and Akshay Kumar are dare devils by now, Esha Deol, Shamita Shetty and Amrita Arora are game to try a kick. Says Amrita Arora, "I love doing my action sequences. Moreover, they are so well-planned and safe that add thrills in life."

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Masala Bollywood film is beyond me: Farrukh Dhondy

2008-03-12T22:14:00.000-07:00

Britain-based novelist and scriptwriter Farrukh Dhondy has been roped in to pen a Bollywood thriller for Parvez Damania’s newly launched production company and says it won’t be a typical masala film because that is not his cup of tea.

“Indians want a particular sort of entertainment. They are not concerned about the portrayal of reality. Most Indian characters emerge out of fantasies. If you look at Bollywood romances - boys and girls change clothes every two minutes and dance around in scenic places, where a normal Indian cannot go,” said Dhondy who flies down to India every now and then.

“In English movies you look at life as it is and present it on screen in the same manner. In Bollywood reality goes out of window. And I cannot write a formal film. A normal Bollywood film is beyond me,” Dhondy told IANS in a telephonic interview from Mumbai.

He has written several books, including the novels “Black Swan” and “The Siege of Babylon” and a short story collection “East End at Your Feet”, stage plays like “Kipling Sahib” and the BBC television serial “King of the Ghetto”. He was the commissioning editor of Britain’s Channel Four before he moved on to writing for movies.

The 60-plus Dhondy has scripted movies like “Mangal Pandey - The Rising”, “Kisna”, “American Daylights”, “Perizaad” and the Malcolm MCdowell starrer “EXITZ”, “Take 3 Girls” and a host of other movies. He was also associated with Shekhar Kapur’s “Bandit Queen”.

He says the thriller for Damania’s One More Thought Entertainment will reflect his writing skills and to some extent the audience’s demand too.

“The script will showcase my writing skills and, while writing, I will try to keep the public demand in mind. The plot has to be intriguing enough because we are aiming to cast big stars for the movie.”

Asked about the relative importance of screenwriters in Hollywood and Bollywood, Dhondy said: “Be it India or abroad, they say scriptwriters are important people. But it is just lip service. Respect for writers is low.

“But, comparatively, Indian writers are in a bad situation because in England and Hollywood, you have a standard contract and they are paid standard fee. But in India they don’t get paid at all. They really don’t care about writers.”

Among the Indian scripts, Dhondy liked Abbas Tyrewala’s screenplay in “Maqbool”, Raju Hirani’s “Munnabhai M.B.B.S” and “Lage Raho Munna Bhai”, and Jaideep Sahni “Chak De! India”.

“I really enjoyed ‘Chak De! India’! I liked what people were saying in the movie. I am not a very sentimental person, but when I saw the scene where the Indian women hockey team players come to a party dressed in ’saris’, it really made me proud. I thought the writer had got the correct moments,” Dhondy said.

Currently Dhondy is scripting the Mahabharata for STAR Plus and says it is the modern version of the epic and he is trying to explain the reason behind every action.

“I’m not looking for mythological motivation. I am looking for human motivation. I will try to explain every action - for instance why Hidimba gave the keys to Bhim to kill her brother. In normal circumstances, no girl will allow her husband or fiancé to kill her brother. There are 20 such puzzles in the epic and all of them have to be solved.

“In short, it will be a modern Mahabharata and we will use simple Hindi. The other important thing will be the use of modern television technology, graphics and animations.”

Apart from this he also has three films to script, which include Deepa Mehta’s “Carpet Boy” and a French co-production to be shot in India titled “Coffin Maker” under the banner of Dhondy’s company, Lucid Pictures.

“‘Carpet Boy’ is about slave labour in Pakistan, but nothing is finalised yet,” Dhondy said.

Source

Fox follows Star to Bollywood

2008-03-12T22:07:00.000-07:00

Twentieth Century Fox Film Corp. is in talks with its News Corp. Indian sibling Star to enter Bollywood.

Unlike a previous foray into the Hindi film industry in 2003, this joint venture with Rupert Murdoch's TV biz will be a full-fledged film production company and make Hindi pics with local talent.

That earlier effort with helmer Ram Gopal Varma yielded the film "Ek hasina thi," which was dubbed the most expensive Bollywood pic but was a box office dud.

A Fox rep confirmed the studio's developing activity in India and said that a more formal announcement will be made shortly.

Source

Power couples take Bollywood by storm

2008-03-12T21:42:00.000-07:00

SAIF ALI KHAN and KAREENA KAPOOR

Bollywood's latest answer
to Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie - minus the multiplying brood - is seriously hot stuff this year.

Saif Ali Khan, 37, and Kareena Kapoor, 27, are in demand by companies hoping to snag the duo for joint endorsements, Mumbai newspaper Mid Day reported.

And they are dangling a pretty delicious carrot in front of the celebrity couple.

Try 100 million rupees ($3.4m) per ad.

Saif alone pulls in about 360 million rupees a year for his 12 endorsements. Kareena has five endorsements on her plate.

Their management companies have told the Indian media that so far, they have received more than five endorsement offers.

JOINT ENDORSEMENTS

Kareena's management company Matrix told Times of India: 'We are looking at them jointly endorsing automobiles, a health drink and a luxury watch brand among many other brands.'

The duo got together last year after their relationship sizzled on the set of their film Tashan (Style).

Kareena had broken up with her then-boyfriend of four years, Shahid Kapur, and Saif was flying solo after splitting with his Italian girlfriend Rosa Catalano.

He has two children from his first marriage to actress Amrita Singh.

The new couple are apparently so in love that Saif had Kareena's name tattooed on his right arm in Hindi script and bought her a one-carat diamond ring and pair of diamond earrings.

And like Brangelina, they also have their own media name: Saifreena.

There were reports that they had secretly married in his home last month, but both stars publicly denied nuptial rumours to the Indian media last week.

Kareena said: 'The news is utter rubbish. I want to concentrate on my career, and marriage is definitely not on the cards for the next five years.'

With all the chatter about the couple, no wonder advertisers want to ride on the Saifreena wave.

Mr Hari Krishnan, vice-president of client servicing with J Walter Thompson told The Economic Times: 'The buzz around celebrity couples makes talking points of ads they feature in.'

KAJOL and AJAY DEUGAN

SHE is a Bollywood sweetheart with a massive fan following. She endorses everything from beauty products to gems.

He is a serious deep actor who is rarely seen fronting a product.

Think of them as Bollywood's version of Felicity Huffman (Desperate Housewives) and William H Macy.

While their on-screen chemistry usually doesn't make the box-office ring, their off-screen relationship spells magic for advertisers.

They were one of the first few Bollywood couples to front endorsements together, charging 80 to 90 million rupees per ad.

Kajol, 32 and Ajay, 38, have hawked products from banks to washing machines to wireless broadband.

Their stable, happy marriage is a big draw for advertisers.

Said film critic Indu Mirani: 'The fact that they are very choosy about the endorsements they do adds credibility to the brand, and the fact that they are the picture of happy matrimony makes them sellable.'

And you won't catch Kajol complaining about it.

She told Mumbai tabloid Mid Day that such endorsements are good for actors.

'Endorsements have enormous reach and one can connect to a wider and varied audience. It proves beneficial to a star,' she said.

ABHISHEK BACHCHAN and AISHWARYA RAI

WHEN they got married last April, the tag of power couple was instantly slapped on the pair by the media.

When Aishwarya married the scion of Bollywood icon, Amitabh Bachchan, trade experts predicted she would double the worth of the Bachchan brand.

Think of AbhiAsh - their media-given moniker - as the reverse Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes of Bollywood.

Aishwarya, 34, has much more of an international pull compared to her 32-year-old husband who is still trying to get out of his father's overwhelming shadow.

It was predicted that together, the trio could be worth around 700 million rupees ($24m).

Aishwarya is one of the global faces of L'Oreal Paris, Longines, Lux and Coke as well as jewellery products in India.

Abhishek endorses 11 products from motorcycles to radio stations.

It was estimated that companies were offering them between 100 and 120 million rupees per endorsement.

However a year later, the duo have yet to be seen endorsing a brand together.

Times of India recently reported that electronics brand LG would not be renewing his contract.

Abhishek's business manager Sunil Doshi told the newspaper that the decision not to renew the contract was a mutual one.

'The fact is that LG wanted Abhishek to endorse all their products, including mobile phones. Since Abhishek is already the brand ambassador for Motorola and the campaigns are hugely popular, he did not want to create a conflict of interest. Also, it wasn't working out great commercially.'

However the newspaper cited sources that told another story.

Abhishek has demanded he would continue working with the brand only if they came up with a dual endorsement deal with Aishwarya.

One source said: 'Abhishek and Ash are trying hard to be the power couple in Bollywood. They get loads of offers for deals and endorsements.

'However, most of the deals don't work out as they have exorbitant prices and want to get joint endorsements. They tried to take the same approach with LG, but it didn't work out.'

While they may not have brands to pitch, the duo is hooking up with Amitabh to go on a massive world tour titled The Unforgettable World Tour sometime in the middle of the year.

Source

STAR signs up 5 sponsors for SRK show

2008-03-09T23:52:00.000-07:00

Advertisers are lining up for Shah Rukh Khan’s forthcoming quiz show Kya Aap Panchvi Pass Se Tez Hai on STAR Plus.

The channel has signed on Cadbury, LG Electronics, General Motors and Pespi Co India as associate sponsors for the show. The associate sponsors are said to have paid Rs 9-10 crore each.

STAR Plus plans to rope in four more associate sponsors. According to sources close to the development, the channel is said to be in talks with Future Group, a handset manufacturer, an insurance firm, a mutual fund company and new direct-to-home service provider Reliance ADAG, amongst others.

Last week, telecom company Airtel came on board as the presenting sponsor for around Rs 40 crore.

Kevin Vaz, head of marketing and sales, STAR India, said, “We have singed on five advertisers — Airtel, Pepsi, LG, General Motors and Cadbury — as of now. We are in advance stages of discussions with a few. We hope to close in on the show’s sponsors by March 17.”

The quiz show, which will air 36 episodes starting April 18, will have around 700 to 800 seconds of commercial time per episode. Vaz estimates only around 10-15 per cent of the 700-800 seconds to be sold as spot buys.

This apart, Star Plus will have a bank presenting the cheque, a computer brand on the show, and a brand that will present the ‘money tree’ (the ticker that will display the amount won by a contestant at each level), branding on the home question. There will also be three advertisers for the three lifelines.

Advertisers will have to shell-out in the range of Rs 1-5 crore depending on the exposure they get on air during the show.

Panchvi Pass is quiz show is an Indian version of the international show, Are You Smarter Than A Fifth Grader?, in which adults are quizzed on questions from textbooks of standards 1 to 5. At each level, the contestant has the chance to win a specific amount and the maximum winning amount for the show is Rs 5 crore.

Source

Women are better directors - Amitabh Bachchan

2008-03-09T23:47:00.000-07:00

This is a first for Bollywood. A Hindi film being made by a female producer and director. And starring none other Amitabh Bachchan himself. It's called Teen Patti, yes, after the popular card game. And Bachchan plays a math professor in a prestigious college who discovers theoretically an amazing formula that is clever, dangerous and exciting.

Ambika Hinduja, industrialist Ashok Hinduja's daughter who made the hit film Being Cyrus, is excited about Teen Patti, that's being produced by her company Serendipity Films.

It might not have been made if Big B turned it down, she admitted. While television serial director Leena Yadav, who directed Sanjay Dutt and Aishwarya Rai in Shabd , added, "The role was impossible without him." Happily, Bachchan agreed, "I was attracted by the character offered to me." The two women worked on the script for about a year-and-half before Ambika went about arranging the finance for the film. Always wanting to be independent, she had made Being Cyrus with outside help, despite being a Hinduja heiress. This time her father stepped in.

Of her new film, Ambika said, "Having stars in your film helps you to initially pull the crowd, but the film will only sustain if it is good. I am driven more by the script than the stars... I look at my films through the eyes of the audience."

They are undeterred about being an all-women team in Bollywood which is famously driven by men. "If you are good at your job, it doesn't matter, your work speaks for you," said Leena.

Bachchan kind of agreed when he said he was impressed by the effort in detail, management and professional execution by Ambika and Leena in the song he has shot for Teen Patti. "It's wonderful that women are getting their due and working in spheres where earlier men dominated," Bachchan is being quoted as having said of his producer and director in the new film.

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The art of seduction, Bollywood style!

2008-03-09T23:43:00.000-07:00

They say the way to a man's heart is through his stomach.

But in Bollywood, culinary skills can establish very little. Instead it's the heroine's ability to tempt the hero into submission that forms an integral ploy in our movies.

Over the years, the rules of the persuasion game have changed dramatically. While fast love has taken precedence over foreplay, sensuality now spells skin show.

And as the stylish Katrina Kaif gets ready to entice Saif Ali Khan in the soon-to-release Race with Zara zara touch me, rediff.com takes a look at the changing face of seduction songs in Hindi films.

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'Krazzy 4' USP: SRK-Hrithik power combo

2008-03-07T23:34:00.000-08:00

His directorial debut, 'Krazzy 4' is a laugh riot toplining four funny men, Irrfan Khan, Arshad Warsi, Suresh Menon and Rajpal Yadav, and the Queen of Comedy, Juhi Chawla.

It also boasts of the star power of Shah Rukh Khan and Hrithik Roshan who've been roped in for the same item number. While Khan's act would be part of the story, Roshan Jr.'s would be used as a promotional video to introduce the four protagonists who are loonies on the loose.

"Hrithik was always part of the song since 'Krazzy 4' is as much his film as Rakesh Roshan's. But getting Shah Rukh, thanks to Rakesh's long association with him. Once we'd confirmed both the superstars we thought that rather than have them shoot for two separate songs as usual, we could get them together for the same audio track with slight variations in the lyrics," explains director Jaideep Sen.

He's already had an ‘awesome' four-day shoot with Khan in January, and plans to shoot with Hrithik this month.

Sen admits with a laugh that he has several friends who are wacky, but he's never had to deal with four crazies at the same time. While Warsi, Yadav and Menon were the obvious choices for the leads, Sen admits he approached Irrfan to play a negative role "but he wanted to be one of the guys."

Chawla was also sounded out by Roshan.

"Half-way through the narration she smiled at me and said, ‘I'm on, you just make a good film,'" recalls Sen.

The concept, he admits frankly, was Rakesh Roshan's. "It's been with him for a while. He sounded me out during 'Krrish 2' and once Rakesh makes even a slight commitment he honours it. It's taken me 17 years to get here but I'm not complaining," says Sen.

He says that he would love to make another film for Filmkraft but the next production would be directed by Anurag Basu. So, Sen has moved to Percept Picture Company for his second venture.

"Suresh Menon recommended me to Shailendra Singh. I'm committed to Percept for one film," he informs. "I wouldn't want to do another light film... may be a thriller now."
Source

SRK, Preity plan music videos for their IPL teams

2008-03-07T23:31:00.000-08:00

With the Great Indian victory down under, cricket is surely the flavor of the season. While India’s next series is the three Test series against the South Africans at home, fans are actually looking forward to the grand launch of probably cricket’s biggest event, the prestigious IPL (Indian Premiere League) which kicks off from April 18th.

Adding glamour to the cricketing action would be the presence of Bollywood stars Shah Rukh Khan and Preity Zinta who own the franchise of the Kolkata and Mohali teams respectively. Needless to say both Khan and Zinta are leaving no stone unturned to get maximum publicity for their teams.

The latest news doing the rounds is that SRK has roped in good friend Ganesh Hegde to choreograph and direct a music video for his Kolkata team. A source, close to Hegde, confirmed the news, “Yes, Ganesh is doing the music video for SRK. We can’t reveal much about the video.” When asked if it would feature King Khan, the source remained tight-lipped but later hinted, “Aggar unka video hai to woh to honge hi na…” For those who came in late, music director duo Vishal-Shekhar who composed the music for SRK’s hit film Om Shanti Om have apparently composed the music for this video.

Meanwhile, the buzz is that Preity Zinta has apparently signed music director duo Sajid-Wajid to compose a song for her Mohali team. The song has been recorded by Bhangra King Daler Mehndi.

Well with such big names getting involved in the inaugural edition of the IPL, things are only gonna get hotter in the days to come.

Source

SRK, Preity plan music videos for their IPL teams

2008-03-07T23:30:00.001-08:00

Salman denies claims of supporting Raj Thackeray

2008-03-07T23:27:00.000-08:00

Bollywood is on the backfoot over its support to MNS chief Raj Thackaray, a couple of days after some prominent actors signed a petition against the gag order imposed on Thackeray by the Mumbai police.

It has sought to distance itself and clarify that they were not backing Raj Thackarey's anti-migrant politics or the violence unleashed by MNS workers on Mumbai's streets.

Actor Salman Khan has now said that he has nothing to do with Raj thackeray's politics.

''Raj is a good friend, we have known him for a long time but to say we support him is wrong, all my father said that the gag that has been put, needs to be discussed unless you have a debate how do you know who is right and who is wrong, that's exactly what was said,'' said Salman Khan, actor.

A point that was made by Khan senior to NDTV a couple of days ago.

''How can I support what he says about north Indians leaving Bombay. My entire family, I myself am from the north. I find his stand completely unreasonable but at the same time I also find this gag completely unreasonable,'' said Salim Khan, script writer.

Big names like Nana Patekar and Sunil Shetty had also signed the petition but it now seems that Bollywood is treading a cautious line on the issue.

In an industry dominated by non-Maharashtrians, Raj Thackeray will have to do a fine balancing act to ensure that he doesn't lose all his friends.

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SRK strikes a golden goal

2008-02-27T23:38:00.000-08:00

After cricket, is Shah Rukh Khan turning his attention to football?

SRK, who recently won the bid for the Knight Riders - the IPL team from Kolkata - kicked off a football tournament in Pune. Having King Khan there was obviously all the inspiration the young footballers needed.

An avid football player SRK had, in fact, after winning the bid for the IPL team, indicated that he would want to invest in hockey and football in the future.

Source

Aamir Khan's defiant stand against Bollywood awards

2008-02-27T23:25:00.000-08:00

“Indian film awards lack credibility, that’s why I do not attend them,” Aamir Khan told me last year in London at the Baftas where his film Rang De Basanti was nominated in the Best Foreign Film category. It was no surprise therefore that the Oscar nominated producer-star did not attend last Saturday’s 53rd annual Filmfare awards in Mumbai.

Khan has a point. Bollywood has as many as six film award functions, organised by the gossip magazines: the results are frequently accused of being rigged as the winners are often ‘good friends’ of the organisers. Khan’s directorial debut, Taare Zameen Par, swept the Filmfare awards winning him Best Director and Best Picture.

Held at the posh Yash Raj studios in north Mumbai, the glitzy event was co-hosted by best buddies Shah Rukh Khan and Karan Johar. Most of the Bollywood elite attended including the Bachchans with Aishwarya Rai.

Why did Aamir’s film win and not Filmfare’s golden boy Shah Rukh Khan, nominated twice for his Chak De! India and Om Shanti Om? It is clear that Filmfare is trying to mend bridges with the talented actor who has stated that he will not give interviews to the publication as he dislikes the current editor.

Back to Bollywood

Meanwhile, over at the Oscars, Indian director Shekhar Kapur’s Elizabeth: the Golden Age picked up the award for best costumes. Kapur is pleased: “The Oscar is not a surprise at all. Clothes are as much a character in Elizabeth as in Jodhaa Akbar.” The Bandit Queen director is currently in Mumbai working on his first Bollywood film in fourteen years, Paani. Will it be a massive massala entertainer like his classic Mr India? “There won’t be any stars, only newcomers,” Kapur states.

The Cricket King and ‘the starlet’

Not content with acquiring the franchise for Kolkata in the newly formed Indian Cricket Premier League for £38 million, Shah Rukh Khan splashed out a further £3.1 million on acquiring players like Ricky Ponting, Brendon McCullom and Shoaib Akhtar at last week’s player’s auction in Mumbai. The King Khan is not the only Bollywood cricket-lover: Preity Zinta is the £39 million co-owner of Mohali, another of the ‘Super Eight’s. Since Zinta is one of the top 3 actresses in Bollywood, it irked me to see her described by the UK press as a ‘Bollywood starlet’ in their reporting of the event.

Bracelet Bonding

What do Shah Rukh Khan, Hrithik Roshan and Kajol have in common besides immense star power? The beautiful trio are all sporting amulets made of coloured stones displayed prominently from their upper arms. This is the work of the newest astrologer on the block, Dr Dilip, who has managed to convince superstitious Bollywood that these ornaments ward off illnesses and will keep them healthy and fit forever.

Choosy Beauty

Unlike other actresses, sultry Bipasha Basu is turning down Hollywood offers. The Bengali beauty, soon to be seen in Race, revealed that she refused a part in the hit Amercian TV series Lost as “it would have taken more than six months out of my dates.” Further, Basu rejected the Indian female train attendant’s role in the recent The Darjeeling Limited. “I want to play mainstream characters in the West, not an ethnic Asian person.”

Comic Queen

Another week, another Bollywood remake of a Hollywood original. This time it is My Cousin Vinny (1992), repackaged as Banda Yeh Bindaas Hai. It stars ageing funny man turned politician Govinda and Lara Dutta. The former Miss Universe is excited: “Yeah, that’s one film I am looking forward to. It would be a great challenge matching comic timing with Govinda.”

MAMI

The 10th annual MAMI (Mumbai Academy of the Moving Image) international film festival kicks off in Mumbai on March 6th. It will showcase about 140 films from 45 countries including Andrej Wajda’s Polish Oscar nominee Katyn and last year’s Grand Prix Cannes winner, The Mourning Forest. British based female Indian director Meneka Das’s debut, ‘Little Box of Sweets’ will get its’ Indian premiere. She tells me: “I am so excited. Let me but you a drink in Mumbai, it’s more exotic!”

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Ye hai ‘Team Bollywood’!

2008-02-27T07:58:00.001-08:00

Pune is going to be a little brighter from today. The reason is the presence of the coolest dudes of Bollywood. The stars will be present for the Abhijit Kadam Memorial Football Cup that will be held in the city starting from today.

The Abhijit Kadam Memorial Football Cup was founded in 2003 in memory of late Abhijit Kadam who meet with untimely death in a car accident some years back. Abhijit, the son of Minister Dr. Patangrao Kadam, was a good football player himself. This foundation is a tribute to him from his father Dr. Patangrao and brother Vishwajeet to groom the upcoming football players in the state.

None other than King Khan, who is an avid supporter of sports, will be inaugurating this event. Be it cricket, hockey, racing or football we have our man right there in front cheering the players. The match will also see a host of other stars like Salman and Sohail Khan, Govinda, Sunil Shetty, Dino Morea, Shreyas Talpade, Kunal Kemmu, and the ‘Saawariya’ hero Ranbir Kapoor participating in this charity match against the Pune team. This match will be held on March 4.

This match is co-organized by the Salman Khan Foundation and the proceeds of this game will go towards the treatment of the AIDS and cancer affected children.

The game will come to an end on March 8 when Nana patekar and John Abraham are supposed to be giving away the prizes to the winners. Well girls with as many as a handful of Bollywood hunks attending the event you know where to be, come March 4.

Source

Aishwarya Rai signs 'Robot'

2008-02-27T01:05:00.000-08:00

Bachchan has reportedly signed Putting an end to all speculation on whether she is doing the film or not, the gorgeous Aishwarya Rai Robot opposite Tamil superstar Rajnikant .

Ash has not only signed the deal but also received a whopping amount as advance, which is said to be much more than any leading south Indian actress has got for a film. Ash is reported to be getting whopping Rs 6 crore for Shankar 's big budget mega film that is being produced by Ayngaran International in association with Eros Entertainment.

In fact, Ash’s 6 crore is said to be the highest ever paid to an Indian actress to do a film.

Both the sides are extremely happy over the deal, as Shankar has been assured of priority dates when he starts the shoot some time in May/June.

Added to that, Ash’s dates will be available over a period of 18 months on mutually agreed days.

Ash will also be doing Mani Ratnam 's film to start sometime in September/October with her husband Abhishek Bachchan , with most of the indoor shoot likely to happen in Chennai.

And since Ratnam has excellent equations with Rajnikant and Shankar, there will not be any issues regarding Ash's dates, it is being said.

Source

SHAH RUKH TO PLAY `SPIDERMAN`

2008-02-27T01:00:00.000-08:00

Soon after the success of his 'Om Shanti Om', Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has got busy with his latest movie titled 'Spiderman'. Sources close to the actor say that he is doing it to please his son. And, why should he not do it. After all, his son is no lesser a fan. Earlier too, the actor had got six-pack abs to please his son. Isn't it? This time, Shah Rukh Khan wants to do an Indian version of the `Spiderman` as a gift to Aryan who is a big FX and SRK fan. And, SRK has chosen Anubhav Sinha to direct this most expensive movie, as the latter is credited with action movies like `Dus` and `Cash`. Sinha has accepted to take on the biggest challenge of his career. While Shah Rukh is gung ho about the project, the director isn't much behind. Both the actor and the director are busy writing the script. But neither of them is willing to reveal more than this about SRK`s `superhero` project. Since the film will require a 12-year-old boy to co-star with the actor, both are busy in looking for the child actor. At the moment, the hunt is on for the boy, who will get the opportunity to join Shah Rukh`s fantasy of donning a mantle and flying across the sky at supersonic speed. Meanwhile, industry circles wonder if Shah Rukh is doing it to please his son only. They strongly feel that SRK is doing it to compete with his rival Khan actor - Aamir Khan. This is apparent from the fact that Aamir's 'Taare Zameen Par' that was released only recently has hit the box office. But, sources close to SRK claim that his project has nothing to do with Aamir's movie. They claim that Shah Rukh had announced his plan to the media a year ago. They recall the announcement that Shah Rukh wanted his company to produce a mega FX film on the lines of `Spiderman`. He had then added, "I want my company Red Chillies to become truly FX-savvy. Have you seen `300`? That's the kind of optical effects I want in our cinema". Hence, SRK is making the movie according to his plan rather than in competition with anyone, including Aamir Khan, these sources assert.

Significantly, like Aamir Khan, SRK will play a character in the movie. The character that Shah Rukh will play is based on gizmos, computer games and a superhero on the lines of `Spiderman`. And, SRK is busy developing the character. Whether he takes credit for the screenplay remains to be seen. At the moment, Red Chillies is completely occupied in completing SRK`s most expensive movie before the end of this year. Apart from this, director Anubhav Sinha says that he along with SRK has been talking very seriously about the project. In the same breath, Sinha denies the media report that SRK's project is an animation film. However, he adds that it's definitely an FX-driven fantasy for children and the child within every person, on the lines of Spiderman.

Source

Why Shah Rukh Khan said no to Sushmita Sen

2008-02-27T00:56:00.000-08:00

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has reportedly refused to do an item number in Sushmita Sen ’s upcoming home production.

Though the two Scorpios became quite good friends during and after Main Hoon Na , things were not quite the same when Sushmita refused SRK to jive with him in his multi-starrer song “Deewangi” in Om Shanti Om due to date problems. Like a true Scorpio, SRK was not the one who would forget the refusal and was perhaps waiting only for the right time to strike back.

The King Khan usually does not show his back to anyone who approaches him for doing any cameo and his item numbers in Kaal and Heyy Babyy were hits.

And now SRK is going another item number in Rakesh Roshan ’s Krazy 4 . SRK’s little appearance in a film proves to be a miracle as his magic is capable of dragging audience to the theatre.

But when Sushmita requested SRK to do an item number in her upcoming home production he straightway rejected her quite likely because he refused in the first place.

Poor Sushmita who is working hard for her first home production Jhansi Ki Rani seems to have lost her chance of having SRK’s item number in her film.

What next? Will the Scorpio in Sushmita strike back? Wait and watch.

Source

Bachchans stay away because of SRK?

2008-02-27T00:53:00.000-08:00

For once, the Bachchans were conspicuous by their absence at the Filmfare Awards function, and sources say, the presence of Shah Rukh Khan as one of the anchors for the show is the reason for it.

Reportedly, Shah Rukh Khan’s remarks about the Bachchans’ good friend Amar Singh at the function last year had angered the Amar Singh's party members, who created a ruckus outside Shah Rukh’s house and he had to rush from his shooting early to pacify his terrified children. The actor tried to brush off the incident, saying he wondered why people who cannot take a joke come to the function. He said the function was for the film fraternity and people who attend understand the inside jokes.

This year it seems that when Amar Singh found out that SRK was hosting the function, he decided to skip it and apparently so did the Bachchans. The official version was that they were still in mourning, although the fact that just last week, the Big B's family attended the premiere of Jodhaa Akbar, and a few days later, Abhishek and Aishwarya were seen dancing at a function, robs that story of its credibility. The mourning story was just an excuse to say that if Shah Rukh is hosting, you won’t find the Bachchans watching.

Source

It's fantastic: Bollywood on IPL

2008-02-27T00:50:00.000-08:00

Bollywood is proud that Shah Rukh Khan and Preity Zinta have helped filmdom forge a lifetime's bond with cricket with the Indian Premier League (IPL) auctions.

The industry reacts:

Bipasha Basu: "It's fantastic that Preity and Shah Rukh now own a part of the team. If you have the money and the interest in the game, why not invest? I think it's great for our country because ample infrastructure can be invested into strengthening of the teams and the players. And Bollywood into cricket means more fun for viewers when the league matches happen.

Shekhar Kapoor: If I knew about the IPL I'd have bid for it too. It's perfect!!

Javed Akhtar: When I first heard about it my reaction was, 'Wow!' I'm very proud of Preity Zinta and Shah Rukh Khan, particularly SRK. He has done it on his own.

Hema Malini: It's wonderful to see our film industry extending its wings to other territories. It just shows that entertainment is no longer restricted to the cinema.

Naseeruddin Shah: I couldn't care less.

Irrfan Khan: To me, it just shows that there's lots and lots of money in cricket.

Arshad Warsi: With all this, I feel I'm in Hollywood. It's superb.

Mahesh Bhatt: Mixing two colours to create a third one is always exciting. This is the age of entertainment. This alliance of cricket and movies ushers in a new brave world. It was bound to happen sooner or later.

Simi Garewal: I'm very pleased that the stars are coming out in support of sports. I feel cricketers are at the top and financially well rewarded. I would be happier if they support less popular games like chess, hockey, football and tennis. It would make India an all-round sports force to reckon with. In this context, it's wonderful to know Akshay Kumar is supporting wrestling.

Zayed Khan: I think it's great investment and an indication of forward thinking. The amount Rs 300 crore sounds like something we'd all like to make.

Sameera Reddy: I think it's a fantastic alliance. It's important to invest wisely and this is definitely a sound business move for both Bollywood and cricket.

Madhavan: Well, when the two biggest passions of the country come together, it has to be a super-alliance. I want to see where cricket goes from here.

Nandana Sen: This is more about business than entertainment. And I don't understand business. But I'm always happy to see more cricket on television. That's what this alliance will lead to.

Neil Mathur: I guess talent has found talent. Only good can come out of this alliance.

Aftab Shivdasani: Personally, I think it was expected. There has always been some sort of link between Bollywood and cricket. This alliance can only take the two industries further.

Vashu Bhagnani: It's a great business opportunity. Bollywood and cricket provoke maximum passion in India. The combination has to be lethal.

Nikhil Dwivedi: I can speak for Shah Rukh since I know him well. He is an extremely intelligent and sensible man and has genuine passion for every sport. He won't treat cricket as a business venture and will invest everything he has into making the game a force to reckon with.

You can rest assured about one thing. With Shah Rukh around, spectators will get their money's worth. You take it from me. Shah Rukh will rule even in the world of cricket.

Victor Banerjee: Gulli-danda was a plebian pastime that the British elevated with the willow into Lords. Cricket in India is largely played by the sportingly incompetent.

There's a just a handful of tough exceptions. Don't give me a bellyache by saying we are a 'sporting' nation of 'sportsmen'. We're a nation of businessmen who have destroyed the game with its worldwide corruption centred in India.

The reason we love cricket is because it's dependent on the vagaries of fiddling with the ball, rain that determines decisions, ground conditions that can be tweaked and the odd upwardly mobile player willing to accept a bundle under the table and even on a flight. We were wonderful in hockey and even winners of the gold medal in football in the 1st Asian Games when my father who couldn't play for the team because of his commitment to the Indian army was a selector.

It's hilarious that we take the Australian Kerry Packer's resurrection of an idiotic colonial game so seriously.

Source

Akshay Kumar does a Houdini!

2008-02-25T05:26:00.000-08:00

Tied up in chains, actor Akshay Kumar went underwater for a sequence in his film Eight By Ten .

About a hundred years ago, the Hungarian-American conjurer and escapologist Houdini puzzled everyone with his remarkable feats. Houdini could extricate himself from ropes, chains and padlocks while in a sealed coffin, suspended in the air or dunked in a sea. Bollywood star Akshay Kumar was seen doing something similar last week at a pool in Chembur where he was shooting the climax sequence of Nagesh Kukunoor ’s psychological thriller ‘Eight By Ten’.

Akshay was all tied up with chains when he went underwater without any breathing apparatus. It was an extremely tough scene for which Akshay took special training in Bangkok.

During the training Akki learned how to swim underwater without oxygen. A part of the training involves taking deep breaths for a minute before taking the plunge into water.

Akshay says it is a very difficult stunt that can affect one’s health if not done properly.

But last week at Chembur, everything went fine when Akshay shot underwater.

‘Eight By Ten’ has Akshay playing a man with extraordinary psychic powers.

Percept Picture Company’s head honcho, Shailendra Singh, says ‘Eight By Ten’ is the first movie of its kind for Hindi film industry.

Source

Aditya Chopra to divorce his wife and marry Rani

2008-02-25T05:23:00.000-08:00

It is rightly said that love is blind. Aditya Chopra, son of producer Yash Chopra, looks to be sailing in the same boat. He is supposed to be in deep love with Rani Mukherjee, whom he wants to marry and the whole Bollywood is anxiously awaiting.

Aditya is a married person and so he decided to make mutual arrangement with his wife Payal Khanna to be separated legally with a divorce decree.

Aditya has already filed a mutual divorce in the court in Mumbai and that gave an air in the Bollywood that Aditya’s mind is engaged somewhere else and has lost his heart to some sweet dream girl.

The divorce application which Aditya has filed has a mandatory clause fixed by the court to reconsider their decision within 6 months, which is going to expire in May. If they stick to their mutual decision, the court shall put its stamp on their divorce.

Aditya and his wife Payal have settled mutually for an out-of-court settlement after three joint meetings and has demanded around Rs.20 crore and a spacious bungalow in Juhu.

Meanwhile, Aditya's family is said to be not too happy with the decision. They get along so well with Payal Khanna but Aditya is adamant to divorce his wife.

The Bollywood is famous for all sorts of rumors and some of them prove to be true, and it may be one of them that Aditya wants to marry Rani and both of them are supposed to be in love with each other and that’s the reason of break of Aditya’s marriage.

Source

Yuvraj Singh turns to Bollywood?

2008-02-25T05:04:00.000-08:00

Ace cricketer Yuvraj Singh [Images] will now, in all probably, star in a Hindi film.

If sources are to be believed, Yuvi's father, Yograj, is very keen to make a film based on his son's life.

Interestingly, it seems as if Yuvi is following his father's steps. Yograj started his career as a cricketer. He played in the Indian team only once -- in a match against New Zealand in Mohali, in 1981. When he career failed to bloom, he turned to Bollywood. That, unfortunately, did not click either. So Yograj became a Punjabi actor, and starred in quite a few films.

It is said he burnt all his cricket bats when his cricketing career failed.

But when Yuvraj was born, his interest in cricket was revived, and he started training his son.

According to our sources, the yet-untitled film will be based on Yuvraj's struggling days, culminating in his success.

Now the question is this: Will Yuvi's reportedly real life love Deepika Padukone his reel life love as well? Lets wait and watch

Source

Shah Rukh Khan, smoking and squinting, at Filmfare after party: Photos Shah Rukh Khan at the 53rd annual Filmfare awards after party at DJ Aqeel's

2008-02-24T23:35:00.000-08:00

Shah Rukh Khan at the 53rd annual Filmfare awards after party at DJ Aqeel's pub Bling at the Leela Hotel early hours of Sunday , February 24. Photo Credit: Sawf News

February 2008 (Sawf News) - Shah Rukh Khan, winner of the best actor for Chak De! India at the 53rd annual Filmfare awards, attended the post awards party with his wife Gauri Khan at DJ Aqeel's pub BLING at the Leela Hotel early hours of Sunday, February 24.

Gauri Khan at the 53rd annual Filmfare awards after party at DJ Aqeel's pub Bling at the Leela Hotel early hours of Sunday, February 24. Photo Credit: Sawf News

Stylishly attired in a black suit over a black shirt we think Shah Rukh went overboard with his 'long hair falling over the forehead look' because we saw him squint through them often. What exactly was the point?

Shah Rukh Khan at the 53rd annual Filmfare awards after party at DJ Aqeel's pub Bling at the Leela Hotel early hours of Sunday, February 24. Photo Credit: Sawf News

Worst, he carried a lit cigarette in one hand and a lighter and cigarette pack in the other. As his hardcore fans and well wishers, how we wish he would get over it.

Shah Rukh and Gauri Khan at the 53rd annual Filmfare awards after party at DJ Aqeel's pub Bling at the Leela Hotel early hours of Sunday, February 24. Photo Credit: Sawf News

Gauri looked graceful in a silver strapless short designer dress with a pleated front and cinched at the waist with an encrusted buckle. She carried a black and silver box clutch and matched her dress with silver thong sandals studded with glittering rhinestones and elegant medium size heels.

Shah Rukh Khan at the 53rd annual Filmfare awards after party at DJ Aqeel's pub Bling at the Leela Hotel early hours of Sunday, February 24. Photo Credit: Sawf News

Her fluorescent pink lipstick looked jarring to us because it did not go with her skin tone but her pulled back hair made up, making her look elegant.

The party, hosted by Farah Ali Khan, DJ Aqeel's wife, was attended by majority of Bollywood A-Listers which included Kareena Kapoor, Hrithik Roshan and wife Suzanna, Fardeen Khan, Ritesh Deshmukh, Preity Zinta and Deepika Padukone, among others.

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Kareena, SRK win Best actor awards

2008-02-24T23:30:00.000-08:00

MUMBAI: Kareena Kapoor won the Best Actress award for 'Jab We Met' and Shah Rukh Khan the Best actor award for his role as coach Kabir Khan in 'Chak De India' at the 53rd Filmfare awards here on Saturday night.

Aamir Khan won the Best Director award for 'Taare Zameen Par', the film was also declared the best film, while Amol Gupte won the award for Best story in the same film.

Bollywood star Rishi Kapoor was conferred with the Lifetime achievement award while music director Monty Sharma was conferred with the R D Burman award for his track in the Sanjay Leela Bhansali film 'Saawariya'.

The Best screenplay award was given to Anurag Basu for the film 'Life in a metro'. Imtiaz Ali won award for the Best Dialogue in the film 'Jab We Met', while 'Chak De' won the award for best Cinematography.

The other winners of the Filmfare award include newcomer Deepika Padukone, who won the Best Fresh Face award for her film 'Om Shanti Om', while Ranbir Kapoor was given the Best New Comer award for 'Saawariya'. Irfan Khan and Konkona Sen Sharma won the Best supporting actor and Best Supporting actress respectively, for the film 'Life in a metro'.

Child actor Darsheel Safary won the Best actor (critics) award for his brilliant portrayal of Ishaan Awasthi a dyslexic child in 'Taare Zameen Par', while Tabu won the best actress (critics) award for the film 'Cheeni Kum', 'Chak De India' won the best film critics award.

Musical maestro A R Rahman won the award for Best music in the Mani Rathnam film 'Guru', Prasoon Joshi won the award for Best Lyrics in the film 'Taare Zameen Par'. Among the playback singers Shreya Ghoshal won the Best female playback singer award, while Shaan won the Best male playback singer award for his song 'Jab Se Tere Naina' in 'Saawariya'.

Saroj Khan won for Best choreography for the song 'Barso Re' from 'Guru'.

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Akshay's jab floors SRK!

2008-02-24T23:26:00.000-08:00

Sometimes a harmless joke can take a deadly turn. And that’s exactly what happened at the Filmfare awards on Saturday night, which had a few tense moments courtesy the Razzy awards that Shah Rukh Khan and Saif Ali Khan were handing out to to their colleagues. The two Khans gave out the desi version The Nariyal Awards in various categories.

The show script had many funny moments with the guests in splits until they announced the Wedding Dancer of the year award to Akshay Kumar for dancing at most weddings in 2007. Then Shah Rukh went on to say, “I am free for a few months now, I might just do the same.

”To which Saif added, “I was even thinking of doing birthday parties.” At this point, King Khan warned him, “Don’t say that aloud, Akki will start doing that too.” While everyone in the audience was enjoying the joke, Akshay wasn’t particularly amused.

In fact, when Akshay got hold of the mike, he decided to get his own back and said, “Shah Rukh, your wife had called me yesterday.” There was stunned silence in the auditorium thinking Akki was going to make a nasty jibe at SRK. But the actor added, “She told me to come to your house and perform for Aryan’s next birthday bash as he prefers my dancing to yours.

” If one remembers SRK and Akshay have been pitted against each other at the BO with Akshay giving four hits last year compared to Shah Rukh’s two. Akki wasn’t going to let his rival make digs and not retaliate.

The source says, “Akshay felt he had taken enough ribbing from the duo. And he gave them a fitting reply. Everyone thought Akki had cracked a joke and smartly and pointedly made his point too. “Akki is an extremely popular dancer and is called to perform at weddings at astronomical sums of money.

Akki’s wit at first left SRK looking stumped but then he simply smiled and took it sportingly. The cracks on Akki stopped after that.”

An industrywalla adds, “I would not be surprised if this entire tu-tu main-main was not part of the act. If you remember, Akki did something similar at the Filmfare awards in Om Shanti Om.”

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SRK bags best actor award at Filmfare

2008-02-23T21:47:00.000-08:00

Mumbai, Feb 24: Shah Rukh Khan bagged the best actor award for the film 'Chak De India' at the 53rd Fair One Filmfare Award 2007 here today.

Child actor Darsheel Safary and actress Tabu bagged the Critics Award for best actor and actress for their performance in 'Taare Zameen Par' and 'Cheeni Kum' respectively.

Shah Rukh Khan starrer 'Chak De India' bagged the Critics Award for best film and Kareena Kapoor won the best actress award for 'Jab We Met'.

It was celebration time for the Kapoor clan when the lover boy of yesteryears Rishi Kapoor bagged the Lifetime Achievement Award while his son Ranbir Kapoor got the best male debut award for Film 'Sawariya'.

Dimple Kapadia presented the Lifetime Achievement award to Rishi Kapoor.

'Life in Metro' couple Irrfan Khan and Konkona Sen Sharma got the best supporting actor male and female award respectively for the same film.

A R Rahman was adjudged the best music director for film 'Guru', while Shreya Ghosal got the best playback singer (female) award for the same film.

Shaan got the best playback singer male award for film 'Saawariyan' while its music director Monty Sharma got the R D Burman award for promising music talent.

Prasoon Joshi was adjudged the best lyricist for song `Maa' from `Taare Zameen Par' while Imitiaz Ali got the best dialogue award for his romantic comedy `Jab we met'.

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John Abraham decides to reposition himself as romantic hero opposite gorgeous Aishwarya Rai Bachchan

2008-02-23T00:27:00.000-08:00

Just when John Abraham was on the verge of starting afresh this year, the shooting of his romantic flick in which he has been paired opposite gorgeous Aishwarya Rai to be directed by Sriram Raghavan is getting delayed. John wants this film to start as soon as possible as only this film can salvage his fast depleting market value at the box office, after he delivered a series of duds like ‘ Kabul Express’, ‘ Salaam-e- Ishq’, and ‘ No Smoking’.Sources say that John Abraham has been constantly reminding the director to start work but Sriram Raghavan is still not convinced about the second half of the film and wants to make some changes in the script before going on the floors.

On the one hand, John Abraham has been waiting for the film to start since last December and Aishwarya Rai, who is supposed to play the female lead, has yet not given any dates for the film. Though in principle the gorgeous beauty has given her consent to producer Rohan Sippy to work in the film, but before giving exact dates for the shooting, she wants to read the final bound script of the film. So till the time director gives final script to Ash and she is satisfied with that, shooting is unlikely to start.

This is not for the first time that a film starring John Abraham with Aishwarya Rai is in trouble. Earlier too they were supposed to work together in Gaurang Doshi’s big budget film ‘ Happy Birthday’, but somehow things did not work out and Aishwarya had refused to work with the director. John’s fate is certainly hanging in balance at the box office and he badly needs a hit to salvage his image, be it with gorgeous Ash or sizzling hot bong babe Bipasha. The actor has decided to reposition himself as a fun-loving and sporty entertainer.

After doing the experimental 'No Smoking' and the semi-experimental 'Dhan Dhana Dhan Goal', John Abraham says he isn't deliberately heading for the experimental mode.

"I'm not aiming to be an art house actor or anything so lofty. I know my limitations. And I've been working my way around them. To me, doing a 'No Smoking' is as valid as doing a 'Goal'," John Abraham told us.

John starts shooting for Karan's untitled production directed by Tarun Mansukhani in two months. "Really looking forward to that. I've worked with Karan before in Kaal. But this is something that has never been done before. And I'm with two of my favourite co-stars, Priyanka Chopra and Abhishek Bachchan. I just love all the Bachchans to death. The last time we were together for Dhoom, Abhishek and I just freaked out. I think Karan's film will be loads of fun. Sriram Raghavan's film with Aishwarya Rai is also a romantic film, though far more intense than the other one. I've made my own place. But I still need to do a lot more."

John is not the least daunted by the adverse reviews for his experimental film 'No Smoking'. "It may have got a drubbing from the local critics, but it got glowing reviews from the international press, including prestigious magazines like Sight & Sound and Hollywood Reporter. Yes, I agree the film came across as esoteric to the masses, but 'No Smoking' was never meant to be a film for mass consumption.

He's sickened by the way a section of the industry rejoices when a film fails. "Look at 'Saawariya'. The way people reacted to it was sad and sick. I think every filmmaker should be given the freedom to make the kind of film he wants and we actors should be encouraged to explore new possibilities rather than being in the safe zone constantly."

John hasn't lost his sense of humor “I'm constantly searching for projects I feel instinctively good about. The search for the perfect vehicle will continue until I'm 64, may be more. I think all my films take longer than usual to register. Critics should wait six months before drubbing my next release."

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Hrithik wants father Roshan to change the climax

2008-02-23T00:19:00.000-08:00

With the successive hit of Kaho Naa Pyar Hai, Koi Mil Gaya and Krrish, there is no doubt regarding the efficiency of the father-son duo Rakesh Roshan and Hrithik Roshan. Now, both are doing much brainstorming for their next venture which is suppose to be a Krrish sequel titled Krrish 2. Report is that Rakesh Roshan is ready with his first draft but Hrithik is not at all happy with the climax scene. There has been a strong debate over the crucial climax between the father and the son and Hrithik wants his father to change the climax.

Rakesh Roshan has just now completed writing the first draft and when he showed it to Hrithik, he disagreed. The duo has major differences over the climax of the film. Earlier, he had settled down on Hrithik to play the role of the villain. Later on they thought that if Hrithik happens to play the role, there will be three Hrithik in the form of Rohit from Koi Mil Gaya, Krishna from Krrish and now the villain of Krrish 2.

They had decided to cast some other actor for the villainous role. For that they have approached Shahrukh Khan but he turned down the offer. And now they are looking for some other actor for this role. Hrithik’s sister Sunaina who is the co-producer of the film confirms the differences between them. They have not yet able to come to any conclusion and the differences of their view point still exist. Hope, they resolve the matter and Krrish 2 hits the floor soon.

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Katrina Kaif - The 6 crore babe

2008-02-23T00:08:00.000-08:00

2007 was a fabulous year for Katrina Kaif with a hat-trick of hits in her kitty. 2008 seems to be even more promising for her right now. After ‘Singh is Kinng’ shaping up well, we also hear that the stunning beauty has struck a six-crore-deal for two films with Studio 18.

The actress though was a bit hesitant to discuss the deal and the films owing to confidentiality, but was all praises for the Vipul Shah and Anees Bazmee team that she will be working with.

“I’ve worked with them in Namastey London, Welcome and the soon to be released, Singh is Kinng and I’m looking forward to working with them again. Both the scripts and the directors are brilliant,” she told a leading tabloid.

Confirming the news about Katrina signing the deal, Sandeep Bhargav CEO - Studio 18 says, “Yes, we have signed Katrina for two films but it is too early to talk about them. She is not only very hard working but, with time, she has matured as an actress.”

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Prachi Desai gets a makeover for ‘Rock On’

2008-02-23T00:04:00.000-08:00

Our space had informed you about TV’s youngest Bahu Prachi Desai making her debut in Bollywood with Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar’s next film, ‘Rock On’. Here is some more on it. The film which went on floors on January 7, 2008 is being filmed entirely in Mumbai.

Prachi has a new and nifty look in the film with Adhuna Akhtar working on her hair; Shabana and Niharika Khan on her make up and costumes respectively.

The film revolves around four young boys who put together a rock band. Ten years hence, fate conspires to bring them together again and set them on a journey back to where they left off. Produced by Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar under the banner of Excel Entertainment, the film is being directed by Abhishek Kapoor. ‘Rock On’ stars Farhan Akhtar, Arjun Rampal, Prachi Desai, Purab Kohli, Sahana Goswami and Luke Kenny.

Music for the film is composed by Shankar, Eshaan and Loy with lyrics by Javed Akhtar and cinematography by Jason West. The film is scheduled to release in mid 2008.

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Priyanka Chopra shoots non-stop for 21 hours

2008-02-22T23:58:00.000-08:00

Bollywood queen Priyanka Chopra is going high these days. With her packed schedule and too much of workload, the gal is working hard to give in her best. The word doing rounds, is that Miss Chopra recently shot non- stop for 21 hours for Madhur bhandarkar’s ‘Fashion’. She did so to complete a major portion of the film before flying off for Tarun Mansukhani film ‘Dostana’ in Miami.

“We started the shot at 5 am and it went on till the next morning, everyone was exhausted but Priyanka was extremely professional, she didn’t complain or throw tantrums even once,” says a unit member.

Madhur too confirms the news and says, “Yes, Priyanka was very professional. When she saw that I was not well and in-spite of that I was on the sets, 24/ 7, she just gave in,” he laughs. Let’s hope the Guinness world record guys are reading this!

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Ash & Bebo are my competitors: Deepika

2008-02-22T23:52:00.000-08:00

Deepika Padukone, the glamourous girl who won everyone’s hearts with her debut in Om Shanti Om, is extremely thrilled. The actress has been not just nominated in the ‘Best Debut (Female) category, but also in the Best Actor In A Leading Role (Female)’ category for the 53rd Fairone Filmfare Awards. Since it is not often that a debutant receives such a grand welcome from the industry, Deepika is glad that she has got it. And to top it all, the actress will also be putting together an on-stage performance at the Filmfare Awards function.

Sharing her mood with movies.indiatimes, Deepika said, “I am very happy that my first on-stage performance is going to be for the Filmfare Awards. It is one function that I have grown up watching as a kid and I never thought that I would reach so far one day. Filmfare is a great platform and I am thankful to Farah Khan for giving me my debut role.”

And while Deepika is excited about her first Filmfare night, we asked her how she rates her performance in OSO and who she thinks are her competitors in the ‘lead’ category. This is what Ms. Padukone had to say, “I am glad that I have been nominated in two categories and the credit goes to Farah and the entire OSO team. As far as my performance is concerned, I don’t know. It is for others to tell me. Talking about competition, I found Aishwarya just superb in Guru and I think she very well deserved the award. Also, Kareena was fabulous in Jab We Met.” Yes, we agree with Ms. Padukone. She does face strong competition from the cat-eyed beauties, Ash and Bebo.

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