Tuesday, June 2, 2009

Katrina is all alone

Putting all the speculations behind, Katrina Kaif is keen to appear on Salman’s show ‘Dus Ka Dum’ but the greatest problem that the organizers are facing to have Kat on their show is who will be her partner. Kat has very few friends in Bollywood and among those few nobody is interested to appear with her and face the consequence of being Kat’s partner as she possesses a possessive boyfriend like Salman Khan.
According to a source, “With Salman keeping a constant vigil on Katrina’s life and phone bills, Katrina’s co-stars are growing increasingly wary of being paired with her. Ironically, the opening question on the inaugural episode of ‘10 Ka Dum’ was, ‘How many Indian men keep a tab on their partner’s phone bills?’ Considering the recent gossip about Katrina’s involvement with Ranbir Kapoor and John Abraham, they will not accompany her on the show. For obvious reasons, Abhishek Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan too are completely out of question.” Kat makes a good pair with Akshay Kumar but Sallu won’t stand Akki at all. With every door closed, the only option left is Kat’s sister aspiring to become Bollywood actress, Isabel.

Friday, May 22, 2009

I dont have as much money as SRK-Amitabh

Bollywood megastar Amitbah Bachchan says he couldn't bid for an Indian Premier League (IPL) team because he doesn't have as much money as (Kolkata Knight Riders owner) Shah Rukh Khan.I don't have as much money as Shah Rukh. He has money and so he owns a team," Amitabh said on Zee News' celebrity chat show "Kahiye Janab" to be aired on Saturday.
Amitabh sent a congratulatory SMS to skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni for his Padma Shri and didn't get a response. But he says he holds no grudge against the cricket star.
"He must have been busy, there's no need to make an issue out of this."
The sexagenarian otherwise makes for an avid viewer of the IPL and says he watches "almost all the matches".

Friday, April 17, 2009

Kaif is acting her age, finally

The sprightly Katrina Kaif has graced the arm of many an older leading man, namely Akshay Kumar, Saif Ali Khan and Salman Khan. But the young 24-year-old is finally ditching the 40 plus actors for some younger leading men! She has just finished shooting for 'Ajab Prem Ki Gazab Kahani' with Ranbir Kapoor, and is being considered for Sanjay Gadhvi's next project with Imran Khan. She’s also in New York with Neil Mukesh. Kaif will team up with Ranbir again for Prakah Jha’s 'Rajniti'.

Kaif’s first successful movie was 'Sarkar' in 2005 where she appeared briefly as Abhishek Bachchan's girlfriend. Then her next movie was with the 43-year-old Salman Khan in 'Maine Pyaar Kyun Kiya' in 2006. After Khan (whom she’s been dating since 2003), Kaif did Namastey London with Akshay Kumar. In 2008 she appeared opposite yet another older man, Saif Ali Khan, in Race. With so many young men out there, maybe Kaif is finally sticking to her age group.

Anushka Sharma loses out 'Arundhati' remake

Telugu hit "Arundhati" is all set to be remade into Hindi and the makers wanted to cast Anushka Sharma in the title role. But the "Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi" heroine couldn't be finalised for it because of some misconceptions.

"They needed someone strong, robust, young and determined and very north Indian as the lead in Hindi. They really wanted Anushka Sharma. She was perfect. But the producer was under the impression that she's under contract with Yash Raj Films and unable to do any outside film," said a source close to the film.

"Now they might settle for the actress who played the lead in the Telugu 'Arundhati' in Hindi. Coincidentally, her name too is Anushka (Shetty)," the source added.

Many producers, including Madhu Mantena, who produced "Ghajini", were vying for the Hindi remake rights. But Telugu producer M. Shyam Prasad Reddy is finally making it it in Hindi.

Sonu Sood, who played the main antagonist in the Telugu version and is set to encore the same part in Hindi, confirms these developments.

"I'm excited because we all worked very hard on making the Telugu original something special. Lots of producers wanted to remake it in Hindi. But now the original producer has decided to go for it. The Hindi 'Arundhati' will be far more expensive and polished. We start shooting in June," said Sonu whose last Hindi relase was "Ek Vivaah... Aisa Bhi".

Sood has already started preparing for the part and said: "The Hindi version will have to be severely revised."

Priyadarshan was approached to direct "Arundhati" in Hindi but apparently he wasn't ready to accept the offer at such short notice.

"And the original director Kodi Ramkrishna can't understand Hindi. So we're probably going with a guy named Rahul who did all the special effects in Tamil," said Sonu.

Arjan Bajwa of "Fashion" fame, who played the romantic lead in "Arundhati", is not part of the Hindi remake.

Said Arjan: "They haven't asked me. Even if they had, I wouldn't do it. Have you seen what has been done to my role in the Telugu film?"

Celina Loves her Friends Gay and Happy

Bollywood actress Celina Jaitley who has always vociferously campaigned for the rights of the gay community has yet again proved her commitment. This pretty actress did the honour of re launching India's first registered Gay magazine called 'Bombay Dost' at Oxford Bookstore, Churchgate.

The host of the evening, Vivek Raj Anand, CEO of Humsafar Trust spoke about how it was an overwhelming moment for the entire community as the defunct magazine was being relaunched in a bigger and bolder avatar after 7 long years. He spoke about how they have the support and love of many celebrities but Celina being one of those rare angels who was beautiful through her actions too for openly embracing the community and helping it in everyway.
The founding editor Ashok Row Kavi spoke about how the magazine had people from every strata of society relating to it and how they had responses from as far as Tajakistan and Uzhbekistan!
Celina herself passionately spoke about not considering this as a charitable act. She elaborated on how this is a human right for every individual and about gays deserving more than acceptance, the compassion and love of everyone; to be a part of 'us'. She even generously volunteered to help the trust with her own finances until they could find more sponsors.

Prince Manavendra, the first person from a Royal family to be openly gay, was also introduced as a man who was called on the Oprah Winfrey show for showing the courage to break norms. Prince Manavendra also spoke about his first brush with Bombay Dost when he was still young and how that association has carried over 14 years, also resulting in the creation of Lakshya Trust.
The event was concluded with the media interacting with the guests and answering media queries.

Aamir keeps Raju Hirani waiting

Before leaving for a vacation with his kids last week, Aamir Khan had a special trial of his three productions Delhi Belly, Dhobi Ghaat and Anusha Rizvi's The Falling. When he returns, he will sit on the postproduction of these films. However, Raju Hirani's Three Idiots is one project that has been delayed because of the star's chutti.

A source reveals, "Raju wants to release Three Idiots this year-end. However, Aamir is of the opinion that they should wait and watch what's releasing at the time before setting the date. Aamir's biggest competitor, Shah Rukh's My Name is Khan, is scheduled for an end-of-the-year release too. AK wants his film to release very close to Khan's release and have another face-off like last year's Ghajini vs Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi."

The director and the actor have had long discussions about the release date. "Even though Aamir lets Raju have the last word; about the release of the film, he has definite plans of his own. The director is getting impatient about the delay and needs Aamir's dates urgently to complete the film."

After returning from US, Aamir plans to sit on the postproduction work of his three films. "Aamir will be busy making the final cut of Abhinay Deo's Delhi Belly. Raju wants to get him for Idiots before he gets busy with the promotional work for Delhi Belly."

The source adds that Aamir has verbally promised Hirani to offer his dates to complete his film. However, whether that happens will remain to be seen.

Thursday, April 9, 2009

AB's baby packs a punch, makes his presence felt

Abhishek Bachchan is making his presence felt and literally so. The actor went about town attending back to events on Wednesday evening. CNN-IBN caught up with the actor to find out if it was some new record of sorts.

"No, no. The record is of seven cities in 11 hours, but thanks for the idea. Maybe I can make another one," was Abhishek Bachchan's prompt answer when asked about this sudden overdose of him in one day.

Abhishek covered two back-to-back events in a span of two hours. He first attended an event felicitating winners of a women's drive for cancer awareness - where he not only did the honours but also performed a special jig on demand from the ladies present - and he also shared his views on women empowerment.

"I have always said that whether men like to admit it or not - sorry guys - women are the superior species. No really I mean it. I am not just saying it because I am here and I have to say it or the ladies will get upset. I really do mean it. The world keeps ticking because of you all and you all are not given the kind of credit that is due to you all," he said.

Next he attended the music launch of Roop Kumar Rathod and Sonali Rathod's new album closer home in Juhu's J W Marriot where, among much media mayhem, he shared his anniversary plans.

"An anniversary is special and if I tell you what we are planning, then the wife will get upset. We will be shooting with Mani on our anniversary," he said.

Shooting for films, endorsements, attending music launches, and being there for important causes - AB's baby is definitely packing in a lot together. The shutterbugs are surely not complaining though.

Kal Penn at the White House

Kal Penn’s character, Dr. Kutner, on the popular television show House, was killed off (or rather committed suicide) on April 6th, causing fans and audiences to sit in shock as they pondered over the reason behind his death. Fear not House fans, we have the answer. It seems that Penn was offered a position at the White House. He will now fill the title of Associate Director at the Office of Public Liaison. His role will help the Obama Administration connect with the Asian and Pacific Islander communities and the arts and entertainment.

While many were surprised at his career change, Penn who starred in Mira Nair’s masterpiece The Namesake, was quick to respond, “For the folks who know me, they know I have these dueling passions, the arts and public service.” Penn was an avid Obama advocate during the campaigning days and has taken online classes from Stanford University in International Studies and Public Policy. He has also clearly said he will not be acting while he takes on the position at the White House.

Penn’s claim to fame came as he depicted Kumar from the popular Harold and Kumar go to White Castle and later Guantanamo Bay. Gone are the days where Kumar was busy looking for White Castle and escaping from dangerous prison; Kumar is headed to the White House now!

Rakhi Sawant Choosing Her Life Partner for TV

Rakhi Sawant, who has always loved to live her life in the public eye, will take that one step further on NDTV Imagine’s new reality TV show Rakhi Ka Swayamvara. She will be choosing her husband over the series from a list of fifteen hopefuls and she will then marry him live on air. "I want to solemnize my marriage in the presence of all my fans who have been supportive of me throughout and what better way than getting married on national television?" she asks, “I am looking for a companion who is warm, affectionate, someone who can dance a little bit, who respects women for who they are, and above all who is punctual. Even Sita had her Swayamvara, so why not me?"

The ultimate naatch girl is currently enjoying a bit of a boost in her career with a successful chat show last year and a role in the new Rani Mukherjee / Shahid Kapur cricketing movie, provisionally called Hadippa – which also features the outrageous Sherlyn Chopra.

Rakhi has always been a very independent woman – what has driven her to decide to marry at this point? “A girl always says that she will not marry but a time comes when she actually wants to,” she explains, “She longs for a family. She wants someone to be waiting for her when she returns home. I have worked so much but now I feel lonely. I feel I should get married. I want a guy who can hold my hand all my life.”

Noted filmmaker Shakti Samanta dead

Noted filmmaker Shakti Samanta, who made superhit movies like Kati Patang, Amar Prem and Aaradhana, died in Mumbai on Thursday after a brief illness.

He was 83 and is survived by wife, two sons and two grandsons.

"He passed away at around 5 pm at his suburban Santacruz residence. He was recovering from a stroke which he suffered over two months ago," a family member told PTI.

"Samanta was discharged two weeks ago from Jaslok Hospital where he was treated for two months. He was slightly paralysed and was recovering slowly," Ashim Samanta, son of the film maker, told PTI.

"However, his health deteriorated on Thursday," said Ashim, also a film director.

Samanta's funeral would be held at Santacruz crematorium at 11 am on Friday, the family member said.

Samanta, a former president of Indian Motion Pictures Association of India (IMPAA), directed 43 feature films, including 37 Hindi and 6 Bengali films.

He was among the directors who worked with Shammi Kapoor and Rajesh Khanna, creating a number of hit films.

Shakti Samanta directed his first feature film, Bahu in 1954. After the success of his next few films like Inspector (1956), Sheroo (1956), Detective (1957), Samanta started his own film production house.

Apart from his movies, the director is remembered for introducing actress Sharmila Tagore, who went on to form a legendary pair with Samanta's blue-eyed boy Rajesh Khanna, in Kashmir Ki Kali.

He also teamed up with the heartthrob of 1960's, Shammi Kapoor and worked together in films like An Evening in Paris and Chinatown.

Monday, April 6, 2009

Shah Rukh Khan hits back at Sunil Gavaskar

Shah Rukh Khan at the Nokia - Kolkata Knight Riders tie up press conference held at Grand Hyatt, Santacruz, Mumbai on Sunday April 5th evening took on Sunil Gavaskar head on.

The cricketing legend Gavaskar had criticised KKR coach John Buchanan over their team strategies including the possibility of multiple captains for the team.

When asked about his reaction over Gavaskar's comments in his column in Hindustan Times about KKR, the King Khan his typical sarcastic style replied, “I have tremendous respect for Mr. Sunil Gavaskar.

He was a great player of his times. But T20 is a new type of game. Since he hasn't ever played this game he has no right to comment on it. If he is still so interested then he should buy an IPL team for himself and implement his game tactics.

We know what is good for us and good for cricket.”

This comment by SRK reminds us of his comments on Bollywood’s living legend Amitabh Bachchan that he had made when he had taken up as host for Kaun Banega Crorepati’s 3rd season which Big B had hosted earlier.

Well now it would be really interesting to see how the original Little Master hits back the bouncer thrown by SRK.

Dreams obviously have come true for Katrina

atrina Kaif has not only got the cream of Bollywood projects but has also been declared as the face of the Indian Barbie. No mean achievement this.

No other Indian actress has had this honor. No wonder, Katrina, is the most talked about media icon these days. A source reveals “Barbie is coming out with a doll that exactly looks like Katrina. it is hitting the market in September.

It will be an exclusive limited edition. Before this, Hollywood icons like Elizabeth Taylor, Beyonce Knowles and Diana Ross have had limited editions Barbie dolls modeled after them. Katrina Kaif is the next to join this esteemed line up.”

Not only the industry but also kids all over are eagerly waiting for Katrina’s all new attractive Indian Barbie doll.Katrina loves kids as much as kids love her.

She recently paid a visit to the poor rag pickers of Dharavi through an NGO (ACORN FOUNDATION). “The slum kids enjoyed meeting her and they danced and sung along with her. The kids also showed her paintings and handicrafts specially made by them and Katrina couldn’t stop raving about their talent.

Katrina spoke to the children at length and encouraged them to follow their dreams. Just like she has followed hers.” The source concludes.

Dreams obviously have come true for Katrina. Bollywood can’t get enough of Kat.

She is on a roll with back to back big films releasing this year. Starting with Yashraj’s New York starring John Abraham and Neil Nitin Mukesh opposite Katrina.

Followed by Ajab Prem Ki Gajab Kahani with Ranbir Kapoor is in the news already. Also, Prakash Jha’s forthcoming film Rajniti for which Katrina has mastered flawless Hindi.

Not only good films, the best of brands are also wooing Kat. “This year she has been the most favorite choice of the brands. She has been chosen as a brand ambassador of a famous jewellery brand Nakshatra and the campaign was titled GODDESS OF LUCK.

She has always topped all opinion polls and was declared as the sexiest women in India by FHM international. She was also declared as the most searched Indian Celebrity by a famous search website GOOGLE. Obviously Katrina’s on a high”

Salman Khan clashes with old foe Vivek Oberoi

Salman Khan’s most ambitious film till date Veer has been scheduled for a November 27th release date. But on the same date Dharma Productions’ yet untitled Saif Ali Khan – Kareena Kapoor and Vivek Oberoi starrer directed by Rensil D’Silva is also being planned for a release.

It will be for the first time that any of Salman’s film will clash with old foe Vivek Oberoi’s. While, Salman written Veer is a much bigger project, said to be having 100 crore budget, Vivek’s film can prove tough competition to Veer because of its topical subject and coming together of Karan Johar and UTV's smart marketing strategies.

It is learnt to have a plot line quiet similar to that of 1999 released Hollywood thriller, Arlington Road. In the film, Saif and Kareena play a Muslim couple who are terrorists living a double life. Vivek is the second lead in the film and he is also a terrorist.

Minissha Lamba plays a journalist who is his love interest. Om Puri also has an important role in the film. Irrfan was approached to play the role of a terrorist in the film but he turned it down.

One can recollect, in April 2003, Vivek Oberoi had held a press conference at his house complaining about Salman Khan harassing him over phone and giving him life threats for his then relationship with Aishwarya Rai.

Salman had that time not reacted to the negative publicity he got from this episode but it is learnt that he made sure that Vivek was almost ostracized by most industrywalas.

After his break up with Aish, Vivek has on many occasions attempted brokering peace with Salman, but the controversial Khan has always chose to ignore him and hinted that he will never forgive him.

Why Akshay is still a big threat to SRK and Aamir

2009 may have begun on a debacle note for Khiladi Kumar with CC2C going under but he has many chances to regain his lost glory.

Unlike his competitors, who have only one or two films each scheduled for release this year (My Name is Khan for SRK, 3 Idiots for Aamir, London Dreams, Veer for Salman and Kites for Hrithik), Akki has four.

His 8x10 released last week which is sci-fi, thriller and action oriented film. We just look at his rest of the films which would release this year.

Film: Kambakkht Ishq
Genre: Action
Akshay's character: Stuntman
Release: May, 2009
X-Factor: Sylvester Stallone, Kareena in a golden bikini

The chick factor in Kambakkht Ishq comes from Kareena Kapoor and Bond Girl Denise Richards. It is likely to be one of Akshay's two big films this year.

The Jodi of Kareena and Akshay clicked in Aitraaz and though Tashan flopped, Kareena's performance and look were highly appreciated. Producer Sajid Nadiadwala has delivered blockbusters like Heyy Babyy and Mujhse Shaadi Karogi.

Shot in US, Italy and France, the film also has Playboy Playmate Carmen Electra with Sean Kingston and Beyonce Knowles on the soundtrack. This will help with desi audiences abroad.

Film: Blue
Genre: Thriller
Akshay's character: Scuba Diving Thief
Release: Christmas
X-Factor: Underwatershots, sharks

Tagged as Bollywood's most expensive flick ever (its budget has crossed 100 crore), Blue is not an Akshay solo movie. It also stars Sanjay Dutt, Lara Dutta, Zayed Khan and Katrina Kaif.

If such things matter anymore, given that most films are shot abroad, it also stars the islands of the Bahamas as well as it has some slick and breathtaking stunts.

This is the second movie that Akshay will circle as one of his two big hits of '09. AR Rahman has scored the music, which features the singing of Aussie pop sensation Kylie Minogue.

Film: De Dhana Dhan
Genre: Comedy
Akshay's character: -
Release: Second half
X-Factor: Paresh Rawal, Suniel Shetty and Akshay team up again after Hera Pheri1 and 2

Last time Akshay worked with director Priyadarshan, they delivered a hit in Bhool Bhulaiyya. Before that, the two have paired up for hit films like Hera Pheri and Garam Masala.

This time they're making a comedy that sees another reunion: Akshay with Suniel Shetty and Paresh Rawal, who also starred in Hera Pheri.

While the movie does not have the makings of a top rate blockbuster, given its comic tilt, its success will keep Akshay in that zone where people will assume that just the star and a decent script are needed for a film to rock.

Film: Action Replay
Genre: obviously action film
Akshay's character: under warps
Release: not fixed
X-Factor: Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Akshay Kumar together after Khakee which was 5 years earlier

After the success of Sinng is Kinng, Vipul Shah-Akshay Kumar is coming again with Action Replay. The film shooting is in progress at ND studios Karjat. Randhir Kapoor would be seen on the silver screen after a hiatus of 8 years (Armaan in 2001). Randhir apparently plays a scientist.

So Akshay Kumar is flying high with these films lined up for 2009 which will again be a tough competition to Aamir Khan, Salman Khan and SRK…

Akshay’s unbuttoning act lands him in trouble

The Lakme Fashion Week event turned out to be a bad day for Akshay Kumar and wife Twinkle Khanna. The actor, during the Tarun Tahiliani's show in the Lakme Fashion week, asked his wife, who was seated in the front row, to unbutton the jeans he was sporting. This had sparked off a protest and social activist Anil Nair filed a police complaint.

A case against the organizers, Akshay Kumar and Twinkle was registered under Sec 294 of the Indian

Akshay Kumar & Twinkle Khanna
Penal Code. The police sources say that action would be taken for indulging in obscene acts in public. Akshay had already issued an apology for his acts.

Hrithik Turns Student

Actor Hrithik Roshan has quite a lot in common with Aamir Khan. Besides being perfectionists, both actors are always willing to go the extra mile to led credibility to their characters on screen.

Hrithik, of course, chooses his films with care and does very few outside movies. Most of his movies, however, are for his own production house, hence he is always operating in a comfort zone. But it does not take away from the effort that he puts in to get his act just right for the character. For instance, in the recent Kites, which is being directed by Anurag Basu and produced by dad Rakesh Roshan, Hrithik has not only learnt salsa, but is also believed to have taken acting lessons to help polish his American English. Roshan Sr was more than willing to shell out big money for his son. According to reports, the Roshans hired Aaron Speiser, one of the top most Hollywood acting coaches to help train the cast of the film in getting their American English right. Aaron, who has worked with Hollywood icons like Will Smith, JLo, and Charlize Theron, reportedly worked quite extensively with Hrithik as well. And it was not just on getting his accent right, bit also on the finer points of acting. Clearly, Roshan Sr is leaving nothing to chance where Kites is concerned. But the really good news is that the interest that Indian actors are showing in honing their craft. Beisdes Hrithik. Kites also stars Barbara Mori and Kangana Ranaut.

Ayesha Takia: Honeymoon hangover looming large

We went all over Europe for our honeymoon. Farhan knows London well because he studied there. We relaxed, walked the streets, went into cosy cafes. Now we’re back in the heat of Mumbai,” says Ayesha.

So how is she finding life after marriage? “Honestly I can’t see the difference between before and after the wedding. My husband Farhan Azmi has been an integral part of my family for five years now. I’ve no close friends. For me, my mom and sister are the closest people in my life.”

Even now Ayesha and her husband spend more time with Ayesha’s family than with Farhan’s. “That hasn’t changed. I was without my mom and sister for a month. Now again we’re together doing what we always did, chatting, joking, and having fun while mom cooks for all of us. Since Farhan has been part of my family I can’t remember what my life was like before him.”

After being in a relationship for a long time has marriage to him made Ayesha feel any different? “Everybody keeps asking how it feels. It feels exactly the same as it did before. Farhan and I felt so married all along. Now that the wedding has actually happened we keep looking at each other and wondering if we’re really married. We’re trying to behave differently now, acting very mature and responsible, but it isn’t working. The only time we feel married is when we see one another’s wedding rings.”

The good part about being married to a restaurateur was, she said, “I married him because I can’t cook. It was a grand plan, to marry a man, who can get me all the food at home without paying for it.” she jokes. However, she immediately adds she is being careful about her weight. “I know people tend to put on weight after marriage. So I’m being very careful about my diet and going to the gym.”

Her latest film 8x10 Tasveer released just when she returned from her honeymoon and before asking for her reaction she in turn asked, “I haven’t seen it yet. Is it good? I’m excited about being credited for the first time as ‘Ayesha Takia Azmi’.”

Ayesha will soon begin to shoot for her next film, Revathy Sharma’s Phir Tum Mil Gaye. “I’m relaxing in Mumbai for a week to let the fact that I’m married sink in. Then I start shooting for Revathy’s film. It’s about three women, and I’ve always wanted to work with Jayaji ( Jaya Bachchan). I’m really looking forward to it because it’s a woman-oriented subject, in fact it’s the director’s own life-story. The minute the director narrated the script I knew this was the first film I wanted to do after my marriage.

SRK hits on cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar

Shah Rukh Khan at the Nokia - Kolkata Knight Riders tie up press conference held at Grand Hyatt, Santacruz, Mumbai on Sunday April 5th evening took on Sunil Gavaskar head on. The cricketing legend Gavaskar had criticised KKR coach John Buchanan over their team strategies including the possibility of multiple captains for the team.

When asked about his reaction over Gavaskar’s comments in his column in Hindustan Times about KKR, the King Khan his typical sarcastic style replied, “I have tremendous respect for Mr. Sunil Gavaskar. He was a great player of his times. But T20 is a new type of game. Since he hasn’t ever played this game he has no right to comment on it. If he is still so interested then he should buy an IPL team for himself and implement his game tactics. We know what is good for us and good for cricket.”

This comment by SRK reminds us of his comments on Bollywood’s living legend Amitabh Bachchan that he had made when he had taken up as host for Kaun Banega Crorepati’s 3rd season which Big B had hosted earlier. Well now it would be really interesting to see how the original Little Master hits back the bouncer thrown by SRK.

8X10 Tasveer disappoints at box office

There were doubts about the box office prospects of Akshay Kumar starrer 8X10 TASVEER even before it’s release. Reason? The film had seen the least hype for an Akshay Kumar starrer in last 3-4 years and the actor too was underplaying the promotion of the film. As the release date got closer, it was quite obvious that it won’t take a thunderous opening as expected from an Akshay starrer.

Instead it would settle down for a 50-60% opening only and see an increase in collections only if the word of mouth is good.

Well, the box office performance has followed exactly as per the script except for the fact that word of mouth has been poor, something which is bound to adversely impact the final collections of the film. As of now, the film is on extremely shaky grounds with barely average opening at the box office. It could have been acceptable had the film being liked but unfortunately, that hasn’t quite happened with the film’s finale coming in for quite some criticism.

Moreover, what has further worked negatively for 8X10 TASVEER is the very fact that it has neither turned out to be realistic nor hardcore commercial. This means that at the end of the day, neither does the film carry a trademark Nagesh Kukunoor stamp to it nor does it see Akshay Kumar go completely commercial here. To his credit, he does try out something different at this stage of his career where he can afford to experiment. However, what surprises is his acceptance of a script like 8X10 TASVEER where the finale is completely incomprehensible. It is hard to believe how he or Nagesh could have actually okayed the suspense element in the film?

In any case, now that the film is out, it can only lead to ifs and buts. The fact though is that majority of audience has given a Thumbs down to this film which could have possibly bridged the gap for Akshay when it came to choosing between out and out commercial films and experimental cinema. Remainder of the week will show whether the film will meet a fate similar to that of CHANDNI CHOWK TO CHINA or come up with a face saving outcome at the least.

Saturday, April 4, 2009

Sushmita Sen urges fans to vote

Actress Sushmita Sen says it doesn't matter whom people vote for, but it is important that everyone votes.

"Please vote for whoever you do, but please do vote," Sushmita urged her fans here Friday.

Sushmita, who was in the capital to inaugurate P.C. Jewellers' new showroom at Pitampura, said coming to Delhi always felt like coming home as she had lived a large part of her life in the city.

"I've been here 14 years of my life. I used to stay in Vasant Kunj (south Delhi) and it is such a touchy place. I've lived there so long. Coming to Delhi is like homecoming for me," the former Miss Universe told reporters.

"And everytime I come here, especially India Gate and Qutub Minar are the two places that really make feel I'm home," she added.

Sushmita's future projects include "Do Not Disturb" and "Dulha Mil Gaya", and she is reportedly in talks to play former Pakistan prime minister Benazir Bhutto in a bilingual biopic, but the actress says she would love to go back to her interests like travelling and writing.

"My life has changed hugely. The things that I used to do back then have changed whether it be taking time out for writing or anything else. Slowly time has become scarce but I am so hoping that in times to come I can go back to my previous interests like travelling," the actress said.

Rahman to retreat for awhile

The Mozart of madras, who won a double whammy at the academy awards back to back is overwhelmed by the global attention that he is garnering, he wants to be left alone now. The music director’s call sheet is on a never before high because of the offers pouring in from the homeland as well as abroad.

Rahman yet has a couple of projects to complete. One is 'Blue’, directed by Anthony D’Souza, where a song featuring Kylie Minogue is yet to be done. The song will reportedly have Kylie and Sonu Nigam crooning together and the other is a project from Abbas Tyrewalla.

Now apart from the immense workload that Rahman has to carry apart for the tours that he has to concentrate on, there have also been disturbing rumors circulating on the composer which have thoroughly disturbed him. The recent one, which said he was to replace David Beckham in a mobile phone ad.

Rahman has decided to stay low profile in the coming days so he can concentrate on his work as well as have some quality time for himself.

ARR deserves it, after all the limelight he has been under so far.

Goody's funeral procession leaves for church

Jade Goody began her journey to her final resting place in a brilliant white coffin carried in a vintage Rolls Royce hearse.

The reality television star's funeral cortege began its journey from Goody's childhood home of Bermondsey in a solemn procession, which will end it's journey at her Essex home.

The 27-year-old reality TV star died on 22 March after losing her seven month long battle to cervical cancer.

Goody's famous remarks, which were once slammed as dumb and ignorant, were turned into floral tributes on her hearse like "East Angular" and "Minging", while a large pink tribute reading 'Jade from Bermondsey' was placed on the roof of the car, the Daily Mail online reported.

The star had planned a 'bright' funeral before she died and true to her words, thousands of supporters were seen lining the route from Bermondsey to her home in Essex to pay their last tribute to Goody.

The cortege stopped in Bermondsey market where the funeral director released a single white dove into the air, saying it was on behalf of all the people who wanted to say goodbye.

Top International Cast Announced for Gurinder Chadha's It's A Wonderful Afterlife

The team behind Bend it Like Beckham is delighted to announce the cast for Gurinder Chadha's next feature, It's A Wonderful Afterlife. The comedy about an Indian mother who takes her obsession with marriage into frighteningly funny territory started filming in London on 28th March 2009 and will be prepared for an early 2010 release.
The international cast includes the legendary Indian actor, Shabana Azmi (Fire, Godmother, Arth, Madame Sousatzka), Golden Globe winner, Sally Hawkins (Happy Go Lucky), Sendhil Ramamurthy (Heroes), BAFTA nominated Zoë Wanamaker (Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone), Jimi Mistry (East Is East, The Guru, RocknRolla), BAFTA nominated Sanjeev Bhaskar (The Kumars at No. 42), Mark Addy (The Full Monty), Ray Panthaki (Eastenders) and Goldy Notay making her film debut. The film also reunites the cast of Bend it Like Beckham including Shaheen Khan (Britz), Ash Varrez (Bhaji on the Beach) and Adlyn Ross (Shifty).
Gurinder Chadha comments: "What a huge treat to be working with such a great ensemble of actors. Nothing excites me more as a director than to take a group of actors from such different places and put them all in the same movie with very funny and quite moving consequences."
Chadha's body of work, including Bhaji On The Beach, Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging, Bride & Prejudice and Bend It Like Beckham, has found her International acclaim and made her a popular household name around the world.
Billed as My Big Fat Greek Wedding meets Shaun Of The Dead, It's A Wonderful Afterlife will be produced and directed by the BAFTA and Golden Globe nominated Chadha, who has also written the screenplay with her longstanding writing partner and husband, Paul Mayeda Berges.

The film is being co produced by the AIM listed The Indian Film Company (TIFC) and Bend It Films in association with Studio 18, India's leading motion picture company.

Salman Khan clashes with old foe Vivek Oberoi on November 27th

Salman Khan’s most ambitious film till date Veer has been scheduled for a November 27th release date. But on the same date Dharma Productions’ yet untitled Saif Ali Khan – Kareena Kapoor and Vivek Oberoi starrer directed by Rensil D’Silva is also being planned for a release. It will be for the first time that any of Salman’s film will clash with old foe Vivek Oberoi’s. While, Salman written Veer is a much bigger project, said to be having 100 crore budget, Vivek’s film can prove tough competition to Veer because of its topical subject and coming together of Karan Johar and UTV’s smart marketing strategies. It is learnt to have a plot line quiet similar to that of 1999 released Hollywood thriller, Arlington Road. In the film, Saif and Kareena play a Muslim couple who are terrorists living a double life. Vivek is the second lead in the film and he is also a terrorist. Minissha Lamba plays a journalist who is his love interest. Om Puri also has an important role in the film. Irrfan was approached to play the role of a terrorist in the film but he turned it down.

One can recollect, in April 2003, Vivek Oberoi had held a press conference at his house complaining about Salman Khan harassing him over phone and giving him life threats for his then relationship with Aishwarya Rai. Salman had that time not reacted to the negative publicity he got from this episode but it is learnt that he made sure that Vivek was almost ostracized by most industrywalas. After his break up with Aish, Vivek has on many occasions attempted brokering peace with Salman, but the controversial Khan has always chose to ignore him and hinted that he will never forgive him.

Katrina is on high

Katrina Kaif has not only got the cream of Bollywood projects but has also been declared as the face of the Indian Barbie. No mean achievement this. No other Indian actress has had this honor. No wonder, Katrina, is the most talked about media icon these days. A source reveals “Barbie is coming out with a doll that exactly looks like Katrina. it is hitting the market in September. It will be an exclusive limited edition. Before this, Hollywood icons like Elizabeth Taylor, Beyonce Knowles and Diana Ross have had limited editions Barbie dolls modeled after them. Katrina Kaif is the next to join this esteemed line up.”

Not only the industry but also kids all over are eagerly waiting for Katrina’s all new attractive Indian Barbie doll .Katrina loves kids as much as kids love her. She recently paid a visit to the poor rag pickers of Dharavi through an NGO (ACORN FOUNDATION). “The slum kids enjoyed meeting her and they danced and sung along with her. The kids also showed her paintings and handicrafts specially made by them and Katrina couldn’t stop raving about their talent. Katrina spoke to the children at length and encouraged them to follow their dreams. Just like she has followed hers.” The source concludes.

Dreams obviously have come true for Katrina. Bollywood can’t get enough of Kat. She is on a roll with back to back big films releasing this year. Starting with Yashraj’s New York starring John Abraham and Neil Nitin Mukesh opposite Katrina. Followed by Ajab Prem Ki Gajab Kahani with Ranbir Kapoor is in the news already. Also, Prakash Jha’s forthcoming film Rajniti for which Katrina has mastered flawless Hindi.

Not only good films, the best of brands are also wooing Kat. “This year she has been the most favorite choice of the brands. She has been chosen as a brand ambassador of a famous jewellery brand Nakshatra and the campaign was titled GODDESS OF LUCK.

She has always topped all opinion polls and was declared as the sexiest women in India by FHM international. She was also declared as the most searched Indian Celebrity by a famous search website GOOGLE. Obviously Katrina’s on a high”

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan performed at NDTV’s unveiling of The Seven Wonders of India.

The entire Bachchan family was present to cheer up Ash as she performed on some traditional numbers in the capital. Where she was dressed up in the traditional attire, Aishwarya Bachchan looked absolutely stunning and she performed with the dance troupe of world-class choreographer Shaimak Davar.

We spoke to Aishwarya’s close source,

“Ash performed for nearly an hour to a medley of popular Bollywood number showcasing Indian culture, heritage and music. Apart from the Bachchans, the event was also graced by Aishwarya’s parents and celebrities like actor Kamal Haasan, fashion designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee, Maharaja of Mewar Arvind Singh, Ustaad Amjad Ali Khan, politician Amar Singh and artists Paresh Maity and Satish Gujral.”

Further the source told us, “The whole Bachchan and Rai family was quite happy to see the Aishwarya’s performance and also they were cheering up at Padma Shri awards but now all are back to Mumbai.”

NDTV’s popular figure Vikram Chandra and Abhigyan Prakash hosted the event and welcomed Ash by describing her as “another Indian wonder” apart from the seven wonders of India which include Jaisalmer Fort, the ancient Nalanda University, Red Fort, Konark Sun temple, Dholavira, Khajuraho, and the Meenakshi Temple. Also, two religious wonders — the Tawang monastery and the Golden Temple.

Thursday, April 2, 2009

Cheating Husband Caught On Google

A British man is facing divorce after his wife spotted his car parked outside another woman's house, via Google's new Street View application. His wife happened to see the husband's Range Rover on the Street View service, while she was spying on a female friend's home.

Although the husband claimed that he was away on business, the wife easily caught him red-handed after she recognised his car because of its blinged-up hubcaps. However, the husband, whose identity is not yet known, is not the only man trapped by Google's controversial new 360-degree photo search, which covers 25 cities and towns in Britain.

There have also been other cases where wives have caught their spouses by spying on them using the Street View service. Ever since Street View was launched on March 18 this year, it has triggered a stream of complaints from people caught on camera.

"I was talking about the Range Rover case when another divorce lawyer came up to say his firm was dealing with the same sort of thing. People are getting caught out on Google," the Sun quoted top media lawyer Mark Stephens as saying. He added: "I suspect the husband's lawyers will claim it was an invasion of privacy that will cost him his marriage and the Range Rover."

Complaint filed against Akshay

It would have been really obscene if Akshay Kumar had completed stripped down his jeans while parading on the ramp for the denim brand Levis during the recently held Lakme Fashion Week.

But all that Akshay did was to go to his wife Twinkle Khanna who was among the viewers and ask her to unbutton his jeans.

It was just a fun filled act from Akki which surprised many among the audience.

Now a person named Anil Nair has filed a complaint alleging that what Akshay did on the ramp was completely obscene.

Right now the police are conducting an inquiry.

After the investigation of the police gets finished and if the actor is found guilty, then a case will be registered against Akshay and the organizers of the fashion show.

Akshay who is the brand ambassador for the “501” Jeans of Levis had walked the ramp for designer Tarun Tahiliani.

Aishwarya refuses to become Barbie

Bollywood beauty Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has declined to be immortalised as a Barbie doll due to her professional commitments.

It was earlier reported that representatives of the 35-year-old actress were in negotiations with Barbie's manufacturer Mattel, who planned to give the iconic doll a Bollywood face. But the deal did not take off.

Since 1994 when Aishwarya won the Miss World title, the company has made numerous attempts to make a celebrity doll modelled on the Indian beauty. However, she could never get time for their endeavour, due to her professional commitments, she said.

Yet again on the doll's 50th anniversary, Aishwarya was approached to appear decked up as a celebrity Barbie.

"Mattel was keen to have the actress walk the ramp on Lakme Fashion Week 'Barbie dolled up' in a winning design as Single Likeness Barbie, which would be unveiled and auctioned for a charity of her choice," said a statement issued by Aishwarya's spokesperson.

However, the actress opted out due to her prior commitments as she did not want to cause inconvenience to the film-makers she was working with by taking time out for the event.
OSCAR 2009

Akshay, Kareena set to rock together

The on-screen chemistry between Kareena Kapoor and Akshay Kumar is being touted as one of the highlights of the action comedy Kambakkht Ishq.

Akshay plays a Hollywood stuntman, while Kareena features as a model in the film.

"The two look hot together. Akshay and Kareena will set the screen on fire. The duo share such a good chemistry on screen," said a source close to the project.

Ever since their 2004 film Aitraaz became a hit, their on-screen chemistry was touted as one of the best. Apart from Aitraaz, they teamed for films like Talaash, Bewafaa and Tashan, but none of these could ape the success story of Aitraaz. Now all eyes are set on Kambakkht Ishq.

The film, which is scheduled for May release, also stars Hollywood biggies.

"The film is an exciting marriage between the East and the West. The movie is a romantic comedy but features a lot of action. Sylvester Stallone, Brandon Routh and Denise Richards play interesting roles in the film," said producer Sajid Nadiadwala in a press statement.

Shilpa Shetty buys house in London

part from wanting to visit her dying foe-turned-friend Jade Goody, Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty's concealed reasons for a recent London visit are out. The starlet went to Britain to buy a house.

According to reports Shilpa has recently bought a home in Weybridge in Surrey, southeast of London, and is excited about getting married and having kids and bringing them up in the new house.

"I believe in the institution of marriage... I'm dying to have kids, and when you see the Weybridge home, it's huge, it's a great family home, so I can't wait to bring up children there," Shilpa said.

She is dating London-based Indian millionaire Raj Kundra.

Shilpa went to London March 15 but the Goody visit didn't materialise due to her family's objections. Goody died March 22 after losing her battle with cervical cancer.

Twinkle-Akshay in trouble

At the recent Lakme Fashion Week, Akshay Kumar walked down the ramp for Tarun Tahiliani. While he did this jig on the ramp, he took a pit stop and walked off the stage to wifey Twinkle and indulged in a bit of “fun play.” He forced Twinkle to unbutton his jeans causing some in the crowd to roar with delight and others to drop their jaw in shock. It was all fun and play for the couple and the audiences, but social activists in the public have taken great offense to the act deeming it “obscene.”

They have gone ahead and filed a police report against the organizers and the couple. If they are found guilty of the crime, a case will be registered and further action will be taken. Akshay Kumar was quick to do damage control, apologizing for his "indecent act" saying, “If I have hurt anyone's sentiments with my actions, I am sorry because I did not mean to do that."

The activists claim, “Celebrities spark controversies by applying such tactics. How can a person, who was honored with Padma Shri award by the government, behave like this in public?” Akshay Kumar will be called into the Police Station where the complaint was lodged, for questioning.

Ajay Devgan Turns 40 With A Quiet Family Get-Together

Ajay Devgan who turned 40 on Thursday said it felt like any other day.

“Is 40 really a special age to be ? I don’t feel anything special. It’s like any other day. I shot the entire day. No celebrations, nothing that I don’t do normally.”

Nudge him a little more , and Ajay admits there was a family get-together. “My entire family, my parents , sister, brother-in-law my wife and daughter were all together for a dinner . But that’s something I do every time I get the chance. Yes, there was a cake. But I didn’t cut it.My daughter did.”

Life at 40 for Ajay means more work. “All the Best, the comedy directed by Rohit Shetty that I’m producing,is currently being shot. So I was busy shooting that. For me there’s no life as satisfying as work and family.”

Ajay will be directing a film later this year. “It will be a dark comic thriller. And no, there will be no Kajol in it. For those who want to see us together there’s the animation film Toonpur Ka Super-hero.”

Ajay admits the animation film is taking longer than expected. “But that isn’t because of recession. Animation is a very time-taking process. It needs lots of patience.”

Any new promises to keep at 40? “None I feel physically and creatively fitter at 40 than I did at 30. The only new resolution is to devote more time to my blog. It has been renovated. I had been neglecting it. But now I intend to devote time regularly to it.Otherwise everything is the same. I still refuse to work with those I don’t like.

After Ghajini Asin's back with a double dhamaka

There is good news for all Asin fans. After being seen in Ghajini, she would be seen in Dasavatharam which releases next Friday. Though the Tamil version was released worldwide in June last year, the dubbed Hindi version is arriving after a gap of nearly a year.

Interestingly, Asin has a double role to play in the film. She plays a woman from both the 12th century as well as the 21st century. Incidentally, in both the roles, she plays a Brahmin woman. The film's USP is Kamal Hassan who plays as many as ten different roles in the film. Another female lead in the film is Mallika Sherawat.

"Asin walked into a role which was originally meant for Vidya Balan", says an industry insider, "However, due to date issues, Vidya had to walk out of the project and Asin stepped in."

He maintains that consenting to work in Dasavatharam really helped Asin's standing in the industry. "She gained a lot from the film since her performance was appreciated on a scale similar to that of the Tamil version of Ghajini. The Hindi version of Ghajini arrived only later (in December 2008) and since then her stocks have been on a rise."

In the film, Asin plays the characters of Kothai Radha and Andaal, opposite Kamal Hassan from the 12th and 21st century respectively.

The story of Dasavatharam revolves around a research scientist who loses a biological weapon of mass destruction in the United States of America. The weapon is also sought by an ex-CIA officer for his own use. This is when the scientist and the ex-CIA officer begin a cat and mouse chase to gain possession of the weapon.

"The film is an out and out commercial affair and was made at a cost of close to Rs. 60 crores", says a trade expert from Chennai, "After its release, Dasavatharam became one of the biggest blockbusters in the history of Tamil cinema by breaking records across the globe. Moreover, majority of reviews were positive too about this film that traversed centuries."

A film which has a running time of close to 3 hours, Dasavathaaram took close to 3 years to reach the finishing line after being in the making since 2005. One of the highlights of film was the much hyped soundtrack that was composed by Himesh Reshammiya.

The film was released in Tamil and Telugu in June 2008 but Hindi version has taken quite some time to arrive. This time around too, it seems more out of chance than choice since producers v/s multiplexes strike has resulted in non-arrival of any new Hindi movies. This is why Dasavatharam is seeing a sudden release coming Friday.

Well, it only works for Asin fans that were left asking for more ever since she made her Bollywood debut with Ghajini last year. Now with Asin being seen in a double role in Dasavatharam, it should only be double the excitement for the audience.

Twinkle unbuttoned Akshay on ramp

Stunt hero Akshay Kumar did a naughty act at the Lakme Fashion Week when he walked the ramp for Tarun Tahiliani's Levi's show, the brand which Akki has been endorsing since 2008. To everyone surprise, he walked up to his wife Twinkle who was sitting on the first row and asked her to unbutton him.

The whole episode was quite embarrassing and not pre-planned; Twinkle was also not ready for this awkward act. Speaking about his unbuttoning act, Akshay quips, "It was great fun. I enjoyed it very much. It's great to be unbuttoned by your wife".

Clarifying his unzip act in public he said: "There is nothing wrong in it. Everybody unbuttons himself or gets unbuttoned by someone. What's the big deal about it? I think it's a very small act. You just have to come here at the ramp and walk. You all can do this act."

This is not the first time that Akki has acted naughty. Both in reel and real, he has showed that he has the guts to cross every limit of naughtiness.

John becomes fitness instructor

If you are wondering whether John Abraham has changed from acting to becoming a fitness pro, you are wrong. The actor is doing a bit of both these days. And any guesses to who his student is? None other than his co-star and friend Shreyas Talpade.

John who is famous for his oh-so-good looks among the young as well as the not-so-young ladies is currently in Hyderabad shooting for David Dhawan’s film ‘Hook Ya Crook’. The film is said to have equal proportions of humour and thrills. John’s co-stars in the film are Shreyas, Kay Kay Menon, Sharad Kapoor and Krushna Abhishek.

Since this film demands a toned look for Sherayas, he has been advised by John to sweat it out at the gym. Reports suggest that John has a personal gym for working out which now shreyas shares with him. Not only that, John has also detailed on a strict diet chart for Shreyas to follow.

With a person like John as coach we can sure expect good results on Shreyas, which will be there for the audience to see once the film hits theatres.

A Disappointed Sanju Goes on Film Signing Spree

So finally the Supreme Court announced its decision and Sanjay Dutt has been barred from contesting the elections from Lucknow on a Samajwadi Party ticket. A disappointed Sanju is believed to have gone on a film signing spree.

The actor decided to play it smart. Always knowing that the court's decision could go either way, the actor never really stopped meeting producers, even while he was in Lucknow. If reports are to be believed, then the actor has reportedly signed some five new projects. So it seems that besides giving out statements on whether married women should or should not retain their maiden names, among others, the actor spent his time fruitfully in Lucknow. Among the new projects that the actor has on his hand are Rohit Shetty's All The Best, which is produced by Ajay Devgan Rob Cohen's Bollywood project to be produced by Sajid Nadiadwala, starring Amitabh Bachchan and Anil Kapoor's No Problem, directed by Anees Bazmi. The actor is also believed to have given the nod to producer Indra Kumar for the Dhamaal sequel and Sohail Maklai. So even if he does not have a party ticket, at last he has enough films on his hand to keep him busy till the next elections.

Hrithik-Ash to romance for Bhansali from Mid-April

Actor Hrithik Roshan has wrapped up his shooting for his home production Kites, which is being directed by Anurag Basu. The film has him playing a salsa instructor and his co-stars in the movie are Barbara Mori and Kangana Ranaut. The actor will now move on to Sanjay Leela Bhansali's next where he is paired with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan.

Kites is now in the post production stage and is scheduled to be released in August. Bhansali's film, which is as yet untitled, is expected to go on the floors by the middle of this month. It has not yet been confirmed, but reports say that the film is based on Christopher Nolan's The Prestige, which is about the life of a magician.

In fact, besides giving the nod to Bhansali, the actor, who’s quite choosy about his roles, also gave the go ahead to Imtiaz Ali. The director is still in the throes of completing his film, Love Aaj Kal for Saif Ali Khan's production house, but has managed to complete his next script and even managed to get Hrithik to agree to doing it. This would make Hrithik busier than he has ever been in his career.

Not Fair: Neil Nitin being forced to look Shades Darker

Neil Nitin Mukesh and Katrina Kaif looked so gora together on screen in Kabir Khan’s New York that one of them had to tone down the fairness-quotient.

And naturally, the chosen one was Neil. He had to use tanned makeup in the film. Laughs Neil, “All three of us Katrina, John and I are light complexioned. John had a nice dark tan during the shooting in Philadelphia. But it was a fight between me and Katrina on who was looking fairer. She used to accuse me of looking more fairer than her.”

Eventually Neil had to settle for a tan to tone down his ‘fairness’. And not just in New York. He also had to tan himself in Aa Dekhe Zara for totally opposite reasons. Bipasha being dusky, Neil had to tone down his fair skin to match his co-star’s complexion.

“In fact I’ve become used to tanning my skin by now, for one reason or another,” laughs Neil.

About his next release Aa Dekhe Zara Neil is excited for more reasons than one. “It’s a film about seeing the future through the camera. We haven’t gone into the futuristic space at all. It breaks the myth about super-hero films. All super-heroes save the world. My character in Aa Dekha Zara is only interested in saving himself.”

As for his successful singing father Nitin Mukesh was scared Neil would let down not so much the legendary grandfather Mukesh as the equally-illustrious Kishore Kumar’s legacy.

Says Neil, “I’ve chosen to make my singing debut with a Kishore Kumar rather than my grandfather’s number which is fine by my family. We are all Kishore Kumar fans in my family.It would’ve been one thing to take one of my grandfather’s songs and turn it around. Ghar ki baat and all that. But this was a very special responsibility, to carry another legendary singer’s legacy forward. Glad I managed it.”

Abhay Deol admits being in a relationship with painter

New age cinema’s new poster boy Abhay Deol has a girl friend tucked away in New York but the actor is shying away from revealing about it.

However he admits, “Yes I am in relationship. She is a painter and we have been going around for sometime but it is too early to comment further about the status of our relationship as we are still getting to know each other.”

It seems New York has become Abhay Deol’s second home literally but Abhay has no plans to settle there. He tells us, “I have got a small place for myself. But it’s not a place I would be settling down. It’s an interesting place to have exchange of talents. I will keep going on and off to learn new things. I miss my family here so I can’t be away for too long.”

Meanwhile Abhay has got himself a cozy place in Juhu away from his parents home. “Yes I wanted to be independent and I stay near to them. I go home for lunch and dinner whenever I have the time. Plus I didn’t want to disturb them with my friends and colleagues when I am at home. I just needed a space of my own. I cook here at times. I can make good pasta and treat someone special when I want to” he adds on a jovial note.

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

Jab Hrithik and Imtiaz met

Hrithik Roshan’s been experimenting with the kind of films he’s doing and after Anurag Basu in ‘Kites’ he’s set to work with Imtiaz Ali now. But of course after finishing another interesting project with Sanjay Leela Bhansali opposite Aishwarya Rai Bachchan.

The director who loves to specialize on romantic comedies is set to work with the Bollywood heartthrob after he finishes the post production of the movie ‘Love Aaj Kal’ which he’s making for Saif’s home production.

The buzz is that Eros International has signed Imtiaz to direct a film and the director has already given a script narration to Hrithik. Reportedly choosy Hrithik liked the script and has agreed verbally to do the film.

The decision was taken as people at Eros International saw the rushes of ‘Love Aaj Kal’, which is being co-produced by Eros and loved them. The movie, starring Saif and Deepika Padukone is said to have shaped very well and Eros wants to extend their association with Imtiaz by giving him a film to direct.

Incidentally, the production house was set to work with Hrithik for an English film in the past, but that never happpened. And now they are looking forward to the Hrithik- Imtiaz Ali combo. Hope they really create some magic together.

All men dance around their wives: Abhishek

Big B and his family - wife Jaya, son Abhishek, daughter Shweta and her husband Nikhil - were in the capital Monday to watch daughter-in-law Aishwarya Rai perform at NDTV's unveiling of "The Seven Wonders of India".

Abhishek, clad in a black formal suit, sported a new clean-shaven look. The actor said it was for a new movie "Ravana", a trilingual film in Tamil, Telugu and Hindi directed by Mani Ratnam.

"This look - it is actually for a movie that I am working on. This look is going to stay, at least for the time being, " Abhishek Bachchan told, running his hands over clean shaven cheeks, in response to a query.

Wife Aishwarya said she loved him just the way he was. "He is my husband and I love him as he is."

Abhishek reciprocated saying: "All men dance around their wives."

"Ravana", starring Abhishek and Aishwarya, is a contemporary interpretation of the epic "Ramayana", in which, according to media reports, Abhishek, the hero, plays a Ravana-like character who kidnaps Aishwarya, another man's wife, to avenge his sister's humiliation. He hides with her in the jungle, and the couple end up falling in love.

At the function Monday, Aishwarya performed with Shiamak Davar and troupe for nearly an hour showcasing the colours, heritage and popular music of India - to the beat of popular Bollywood numbers.

The anchors of the show, Vikram Chandra and Abhigyan Prakash, NDTV veterans, described Aishwarya as "another Indian wonder", in addition to the seven that NDTV in association with Tata Indicom unveiled at the star-studded ceremony.

The seven wonders include Jaisalmer Fort, the ancient Nalanda University, Red Fort, Konark Sun temple, Dholavira, Khajuraho, and the Meenakshi Temple. Also, two spiritual wonders - the Tawang monastery and the Golden Temple - were unveiled by Amitabh Bachchan and Jaya Bachchan, respectively.

A fashion show showcasing the traditional textiles and weaves of India by leading designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee brought motifs, textiles and colours from the four corners of the country, including the northeast. The catwalk featured top models.

Unveiling the Golden Temple as one of the spiritual wonders, Jaya Bachchan said she had been to the temple several times. "I have visited the temple many times. You enter and something happens. It has a lot of energy and is very peaceful."

Big B said the Golden Temple was special because he was half Sikh.

The function was also graced by Aishwarya's parents and celebrities like actor Kamal Haasan, fashion designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee, Maharaja of Mewar Arvind Singh, Ustaad Amjad Ali Khan, politician Amar Singh and artists Paresh Maity and Satish Gujral.

The seven wonders were chosen from a list of 220 sites. "This is a campaign to build awareness about what we have in our country, so that our monuments and heritage are looked after better and local communities are involved in conservation, " chairman and director of NDTV Prannoy Roy said.

Kareena: Saif and I will be red-hot in Agent Vinod

Now that Kareena Kapoor is finally going to be part of Saif Ali Khan’s production plans no stone is being left unturned to ensure her presence is justified in the Khan-produced venture.

Apparently in the beginning the leading lady’s role in Agent Vinod was relatively less substantial than Saif’s.

Says a source, “In fact Kareena wasn’t sure she wanted to do Agent Vinod because the title clearly indicated whom the film belonged to. But Saif convinced Kareena that her role would be on a par with his.

Then he convinced Sriram with whom Saif has a deep rapport since they did Ek Hasina Thi together to make sure Kareena’s presence in the film is justified.”

Quiz Kareena about this, and she laughs, “Do you think I’d agree to be part of the film if my role was not as exciting as Saif? I mean, can you imagine what would happen? Saif and I will be smouldering-hot in Agent Vinod. Even the posters will be designed to highlight us as the coolest hot pair.”

Clearly, after Rensil d’Silva’s terrorist drama in which Saif and Kareena look and act very real the pair is in no mood to get into the authentic space once again.

But here’s where the problem sets in. While Kareena and Saif are looking to do a high-gloss big-budget espionage thriller director Sriram Raghavan is looking at making a gritty life-like spy drama.

Says Raghavan, “I grew up watching those really filmy spy films like Farz, Aankhen, Yakeen and of course the Rajshris’ Agent Vinod. I’ve been fascinated by the genre. However times have changed and so have definitions of espionage. My film will occupy a more real space.”

He admits his spy drama will be more in the mood of Mani Shankar’s recent Mukhbir than the old Agent Vinod.

At the same time Raghavan admits the high budget of the new-age Agent Vinod forbids any over experimentation, “I’ve never worked on this kind of a budget before. And I can’t afford to be experimental. The market has to be kept in mind. So there will be music and songs. But no lip sync songs.”

Bhansali's Hrithik Starrer to Hit the Floors in Mid April

Actor Hrithik Roshan has wrapped up his shooting for his home production Kites, which is being directed by Anurag Basu. The film has him playing a salsa instructor and his co-stars in the movie are Barbara Mori and Kangana Ranaut. The actor will now move on to Sanjay Leela Bhansali's next where he is paired with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan.

Kites is now in the post production stage and is scheduled to be released in August. Bhansali's film, which is as yet untitled, is expected to go on the floors by the middle of this month. It has not yet been confirmed, but reports say that the film is based on Christopher Nolan's The Prestige, which is about the life of a magician. In fact, besides giving the nod to Bhansali, the actor, who us quite choosy himself about his roles, has also give the go ahead to Imtiaz Ali. The director is still in the throes of completing his film, Love Aaj Kal for Saif Ali Khan's production house, but has managed to complete his next script and even managed to get Hrithik to agree to doing it. This would make Hrithik busier than he has ever been in his career.

Kambakkth Ishq Gets Away With U/A Certificate

Sajid Nadiadwala's much talked about Kambakkth Ishq has managed to get away with a U/A certificate from the censor board. It was being speculated that movie would get an 'Adults Only' certificate but it seems that the censors did not feel so.

The speculation about the certification was triggered by the language used by the lead actors Akshay Kumar and Kareena Kapoor in the initial promos of the movie. However, Nadiadwala seems to have an answer for it. According to him, there were more than four or five trailors made for the film and since the Censors objected to the one using explicit language, they decided to drop that and are now airing another one, resulting in them getting a U/A certificate. The film has been directed by newbie Sabir Khan, who has assisted Nadiadwala in films like Mujhse Shaadi Karoge. It was Sabir who came up with the story idea of Kambakkth Ishq which Nadiadwala fell in love with and decided to produce. The highlight of the movie, which has been made on a budget of Rs 75 crore, is the presence of Hollywood stars Sylvester Stallone, Denise Richards and Brandon Routh, who play themselves in the movie, which has Hollywood as its playground, with Akshay, playing a stuntman in Hollywood.

Anurag Kashyap and John to Work Together Again

It seems that they have managed to put behind the fiasco of No Smoking and again decided to collaborate on another project. Anurag Kashyap and actor John Abraham will be working together again in a film titled Bombay Velvet.

Besides John, the film is also expected to star Naseeruddin Shah, Kay Kay Menon. In the film, which is set in the 1960s, John plays the lead role of a real life hero. John and Kashyap had last worked together in No Smoking, which proved to be a dud at the box office and was ripped by both critics and viewers. It took the success of a Dev D for Kashyap to get over the No Smoking fiasco. But what is really heartening is that both John and Kashyap stood by their film. Incidentally, Kashyap is also one busy man. Right after he finishes work on Bombay Velvet, he is all set to begin work on a film which stars his girlfriend and the Chandramukhi of his Dev D, Kalki Koechlin. The film is titled Happy Ending and is said to be about a girl's journey. The director is also committed to making an action film called Doga, based on the comic character which is very popular in North India. The film will star Kunal Kapoor and will have a lot of special effects. It is being speculated that it may well turn out to be one of the most expensive Hindi films made ever.

Minissha dating a newbie?

Romance is in the air for Minissha Lamba once again. After reports of being seen with a mystery guy, Sohail Rathod, the latest on her love life is that she is dating Anant Narayan. Anant is making his debut as an actor in Rajeshwari Dasgupta’s Onirbaan.

On Monday evening, Minissha and Anant were spotted at a suburban coffee shop in Yari Road holding hands. Our source says, “They have often been seen together in Lokhandwala.”

While Minissha refused to comment on her relationship with Anant despite repeated calls and text messages, Anant told us, “I won’t confirm or deny this. Minissha and I go back a long way. We are definitely friends. That’s it.” However, a friend of Anant disclosed, “It is a bit too early for Anant to make an emphatic comment on this.”

Meanwhile, Anant is naturally excited about his debut in the art film, Onirbaan, where he plays the title role. Anant was even rumoured to be making a debut in Aditya Chopra’s Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi but that didn’t work out.

Monday, March 30, 2009

Shilpa Shetty to marry Raj Kundra in October?

Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty will probably tie the knot with beau Raj Kundra in October this year, the Daily Mail online reported Sunday.

The couple have set a tentative date in October and plan to have a traditional ceremony in India, the report said.

"I have very traditional views of marriage. I've seen my parents maintain a 35-year marriage and I really believe marriages are made in heaven. I've always said that the day I decide to tie the knot it is going to be for good, " Shilpa said.

"I have often wondered who the right person would be and I've come to realise that for me it is Raj. I'm completely sure he is my soul mate, " she added.

Kundra seems as excited about the prospect of marriage as Shilpa.

"I have spoken to Shilpa's parents and we are doing it the Indian way. In India, you don't get engaged until just before the wedding, so I didn't go down on one knee to her or anything like that. But we have definitely set a date for this year, " he said.

The couple have been together for two years. They are yet to make an official announcement out of respect for British reality TV star Jade Goody, who passed away March 22. She had appeared with Shilpa on "Celebrity Big Brother", sparking an international racism row.

The actress, 33, recently bought a 5 million pound house in Weybridge, Surrey with Kundra. The house has seven bedrooms.

Kundra, a 34-year-old millionaire, owns a Dubai-based business and deals in the trading of precious stones and metals.

He has also started to help Shilpa manage her career and is believed to be behind her decision last month to invest 8 million pounds in the cricket team Rajasthan Royals, who were last year's Indian Premier League winners.

Hook Ya Crook is a copy? John faces the heat

David Dhawan after facing the wrath of Hollywood studios for ripping of Will Smith's Hitch as Partner doesn't seem to have learnt his lesson.

He is at it again Thats copying a Hollywood film and making its Bollywood version, unofficially of course. His coming flick being produced by UTV and starring John Abraham has more than striking similarities to Adam Sandler starrer The Longest Yard.

The plot we have been told of Hook Ya Crook is - John Abraham plays Viraj Pradhan, a boy with unlimited passion for the game of cricket who aspires to play for the Indian Team one day.

Alas, it seems like his dream will never be realised when he is sentenced to a maximum security prison due to his reckless behaviour.

At the prison, he discovers that the dangerous inmates are as passionate about the game as him and soon he is in huge demand, thanks to his talent.

With his new ragtag group of friends, a tyrannical warden and his never-ending lust for the game, Viraj renews his search for a way to achieve his dream of playing cricket for India.

Now check the plot of The Longest Yard - Paul (Adam Sandler) is an ex-NFL player who is disgraced for match fixing in a big game.

He fights with his rich girlfriend Lena, played by Courtney Cox, and goes on a reckless, drunk drive throughout San Diego, smashing his car and several police cars. As a result, he is arrested by the police on multiple charges.

While in jail, the warden who knows about Paul’s athletic skills asks him to assemble a football team of convicts so that their team of inmates can defeat the team of the sadistic guards of the jail. An old convict and a coach help Paul to get back in form and he readies the team to play against the guards.

The poster of The Longest Yard has an American football in cuffed hands while the poster of Hook Ya Crook shows a cricket ball in cuffed hands. No wonder Dhawan has been given the title of Sultan of Nonsense. But Rensil d’Silva, currently editing his Kareena-Saif directorial debut, denies any similarity between his film and the Peter Segal-directed 2005 prison drama.

“Hook Ya Crook is a prison- break drama. So to that extent there’d be some similarity between Hook Ya Crook and any other prison-break drama. Having said that let me make it clear that my film isn’t at all a copy of Longest Yard.”

Rensil has been eager to visit Hyderabad to check out the prison set that David Dhawan has erected at the Ramuji Rao Studio.

“Unfortunately I’m so tied up with editing the canned footage of my film I can’t take any time off, ” ends Rensil regretfully.

And John Abham who has been sweating it out for Hook Yaa Crook has decided to take break. We hear that the handsome hunk got severe heat stroke while shooting for the film.

A source from the sets tells us, “he has broken down due to the frustrating heat in Hyderabad while shooting for David Dhawan’s film 'Hook Ya Crook’.

The heat is so much irresistible that John has taken a break to chill out in Mumbai which is moderately cooler as compared to Hyderabad. The reason for that is most of the shooting is outdoor and there are lots of more physical exercises which really exhausts everyone, not only the actors but other unit members.

But helplessly everyone is bound to shoot under the severe temperature which goes up upto 40.”

Further our source told us, “So for that John had taken short break from shooting to meet Bipasha because soon she will be in Goa to face the heat while shooting for 'All the Best' with Ajay Devgan and Fardeen Khan. The Mahurat of this film happened yesterday at Madh island.”

Thanks to Imran, Karan Johar finds new passion

The entire music video from Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions featuring young A-listers from Bollywood asking the young in India to vote was put together in two days flat.

“And that included Salim (of Salim-Suleiman)’s background music, ” said Karan proudly.

On Thursday stars beginning with Abhishek Bachchan and Karan Johar himself, trooped into the studio to have their say on camera.

Karan was delighted. “I had to do nothing except pick up the phone and ask everyone to come and record their message for the young. I was surprised by how readily and quickly they took time off from their busy schedules for this public-interest broadcast.”

And now Karan Johar has discovered a new passion. He wants to now produce informative profit-free short films for television that would subscribe ways to achieve an improvement in the quality of our life.

Karan Johar’s entire music video urging the youngsters of the country to vote was put together in two days.

And considering it stars every 32-minus A-lister from Kareena Kapoor to Abhishek Bachchan, that’s no mean achievement.

“The credit for the music video must go to Imran Khan, ” says Karan Johar who has been shooting non-stop with Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol for My Name Is Khan.

“I had gone to meet Imran for a film when he brought up the idea of a video on voting. His enthusiasm rubbed off on me. I got together with a politician friend Mukul Deora, called up my writer-friend Niranjan Iyenger to write the script and asked my Dostana director and friend Tarun Mansukhani to direct it. And we were ready.”

Karan will now be looking at other public-interest films where he can use his connections in Bollywood for purposes other than entertainment.

“The vote-youth video made me realize the importance of reaching out to the public.

Considering we’re going through a global economic recession and other major problems it is very important for the young to be mobilized into casting their votes to elect correct leaders. Similarly there’re other areas where I think my contacts could come in handy.”

Tabu walked in with lover Nagarjuna at LFW

ollywood actress Tabu may be away from film for a long time but she has been able to hit the headlines as she walked the Lakme Fashion Week (LFW) with beau Nagarjuna. Till date, Tabu has kept under the wrap about her alleged relationship with Nagarjuna but by making appearance with the south superstar at the on-going LFW, she has almost made it official.

When media hold the mike before them to give some bytes about their overt relationship, both Tabu and Nagarjuna turned furious and refused to give any bytes. They remained mum about their liaison but as long as they were on the show, they remained closely connected and was seen extremely cozy.

Tabu and Nagarjuna set the ramp on fire when they walked for designer Asmita Marwah, held at Grand Hyatt in Mumbai. The first day of LFW was full of interesting happenings with Katrina walking the ramp dressed in Barbie doll attire and with Tabu and Nagarjuna’s open declaration about their apparent alliance.

Freida strikes gold

Looks like the lucky stars were shining down on the model turned actress Freido Pinto while she nodded a yes to be a part of the Danny Boyle directed ‘Slumdog Millionaire’. After the film bagged eight academy awards the actress is in demand.

Freida is at the moment shooting in Israel for a film. Reports indicate that she is earning more money then the top heroes in Bollywood a suggested two million pounds. No wonder the actress has got hot offers from top production houses and her career seems to be at its best.

Freida has got a deal with Woody Allen who is famous for his heroines getting the Oscars. But we cannot compare her to Bollywood babes because she has not been projected as an Indian heroine but as an international face.

Hope the day is not far when Ms. Pinto will walk the red carpet to fetch an Oscar to her name.

Akki and Bebo With Hollywood's Finest

What do you get when Bollywood goes to Hollywood to make a movie of lavish proportions? Kambakkht Ishq, of course! The film has the multitalented Akshay Kumar in the lead role, and Bollywood’s current leading lady Kareena Kapoor starring opposite him. This is the seventh movie together for Akki and Bebo. Supporting them are actor Aftab Shivdasani and actress Amrita Arora.

This latest offering from the house of Sajid Nadiadwala, known for hit movies like Mujhse Shaadi Karogi and Heyy Baby, is directed by Sabbir Khan. In Nadiadwala’s own words Kambakkht Ishq is probably the first Indian movie to have been shot at Universal Studios and the Kodak Theatre (home to The Oscars). It also has the distinction of having Hollywood heavyweights like Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sylvester Stallone, Denise Richards and Brandon Routh appear in cameo roles. Parts of the movie were shot in Venice, Italy.

The premise is simple: Boy meets girl in beautiful L.A., and they fall in love with each other. But not all romances are destined to have a smooth sailing, and what follows next is a battle of the sexes that’s sure to have you laughing throughout the movie. So what happens when “the stuntman of the year meets the supermodel of the year?” Watch this movie to find out!

Bipasha Looking for Big Films

Actress Bipasha Basu has been around for quite a while now and really does not need to prove herself. The actress, who recently has a release in Aa Dekhen Zara, where she was cast opposite Neil Nitin Mukesh, is now looking for big films.

The actress has realised that it makes more sense to work for a production house which will not also look into the marketing and selling of the movie. Maybe the actress has been inspired by Aamir Khan, and wants to be a lot more choosy about her work. If a film does not get a proper release, then all the good work put in by the actors and the others, suffers, is what she feels. Her grouse is that very few people actually are into that kind of thought process, which looks beyond the making of the film, but is also thinking of creating the right kind of buzz around a film and ensuring that it has a decent release. That is quite similar to the way the biggies in the industry operate these days, like Aamir and even Shah Rukh Khan. Bipasha, who has managed to gain a foothold in Yash Raj films with Dhoom, Bachna Ae Haaseeno and a song appearance in Rab Na Bana Di Jodi, is ready for big things. Meanwhile, it seems that Neil, her co star in Aa Dekhne Zara has really endeared himself to her because of his sincerity and passion for his work. Also the fact, that he is a good friend of John Abraham, has perhaps also helped tilt the scales in Neil's favour. The actress too seems to be quite happy with her role in the movie, where she played a Bengali girl, a role that she could truly identify with.

Mehul Kumar to Make Krantiveer Sequel

Close on the heels of Vishesh films Raaz 2, the second in the series, other producers and directors too seem to have been bitten by the sequel bug. Of course, besides Raaz, there was the Dhoom series as well. The news is that producer Mehul Kumar too seems to be keen on making a sequel.

Mehul's White City Entertainment launched the sequel to the 1994 blcokbuster Krantiveer, which starred Nana Patekar, Dimple Kapadia, Danny Denzongpa, Paresh Rawal and Mamta Kulkarni, recently. However, he is using the sequel to launch his daughter and newcomer Jahan Bloch, who will play the leads in the sequel. The original Krantiveer-The Revolution dealt with the character of the apathetic Pratap Narayan Tilak, who is jostled into consciousness by a journalist. He then fights for justice in his village despite facing opposition from the cops and politicians. He finally takes the law into his own hands, resulting in mayhem. The role of Tilak was brought to life by Nana's fiery acting, which was supported excellently by Dimple. The launch announcement was attended by members of the original cast including Nana, Dimple. The lamp was lit by none other than Amitabh Bachchan.

Friday, March 27, 2009

Rakhi Sawant 'flirts' with Rani Mukherjee

Some girls just wanna have fun. Rakhi Sawant has it in a song she recently shot for a Yashraj Film.

Titled Hadippa , the film stars Rani Mukherjee and Shahid Kapur in lead. And Rakhi has done an item-cum-funny song for a particular situation with Rani, where she tries to woo Rani who is in the disguise of a Sardar boy. And thus the picturisation of the song turns out to be funny. In the song, Rakhi chases Rani and openly declares her love.

How girl with the forever 'behenji' look got lucky

Preeti Jhangiani tried her best to make a mark in Bollywood but it never happened. This inspite of debuting in a Yash Raj flick like 'Mohabbatein'.

After a whole lot of struggle, the dame with the forever ‘behenji’ look decided to get married to another struggler from B -Town- Parveen Dabas.

Now unlike the likes of top actresses like Kajol and Ash, she’s not expected to make a comeback to B-Town.

So she’s currently focusing her energies down South.

She’s doing an item number in Tejam which is directed by Raj KS Gopi. S Rajasekhar is producing the film under Sunrays Entertainments banner and Gana is scoring the music this flick. The cast includes Sardhar Patel, Suresh, Mahesh, Vivek, Goutham, Raj, Vinod and Monisha. Monisha, Divya, Ramya Chowdary, Gopi, Praveen, Rama Krishna and others.

Producer Rajasekhar has said, “It is an entertaining film with novel concept. The story revolves around eight boys and one girl. We are taking up a burning issue and narrating it in an entertaining way. Currently, we are canning a song ‘Picaso gesenu maa andame Monalise memu twinse kada” on Preeti Jhangiani”.

Director Raj KS Gopi added: “As of now, the movie has completed its 90 percent of the shooting with an exception of one song and 10 percent talkie. The flick will be completed by the end of this month”.

Preeti Jhangiani said: “I am playling a key role this flick. I thank the producer for giving this opportunity”.

Oh yeah, this chick really needs an opportunities of any kind at the moment. She must be thanking her stars.

Shilpa Shetty’s desire of journey

A journey splashing with successful endeavors all through is actually what Shilpa is striding now. It all took high to greater flight when she turned entire spotlights with her ‘Big Brother’ mania across the globe. In fact, there’s been no turning back for this alluring missy as she continued with her ‘Big Boss’ Mania here in India. Finally, the actress gears for yet another show, this time on silver screens that will sweep the hearts of Chinese film buffs. Yeah! Shilpa will be seen in producer Sharad Hegde's prestigious Indo-Chinese project The Desire- Journey of a Woman directed by R.Sarath.

The Desire-Journey of a Woman is a Hindi feature film that's dubbed in Chinese and revolves around dance, music, art, culture and emotions. It's the story of 'Goutami', an accomplished Odissi dancer and a talented artist 'Jai Leang'. Shilpa would be seen sharing the screen space with the Chinese superstar Xia Yu and Bollywood's timeless dancing beauty Jaya Prada. The supporting cast also includes Anupam Kher, Sheetal Menon, Nakul Vaid and Asif Sheikh.

After the completion of a schedule with Shilpa and Xia Yu at Putarajaya in Malaysia, the film has now moved into its last leg of shooting with only one schedule left, to take the film into post-production. While the famous trio Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy has composed the film's music, the music Maestro A.R.Rahman has rendered the background score.

So, what’s so special with ‘The Desire – Journey of a Woman’? Fine! when you’ve the stunning dance queens Jaya Pradha and Shilpa Shetty, your imaginations are sure to be surmounted with colossal shows.

Aishwarya slipped away from Barbie dreams

‘I am a Barbie girl’ – Well, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan would no more sing these words. Of course, it wouldn’t be a favorite song for this girl anymore. Quite puzzling, isn’t? The World’s beauteous woman often crowned for various titles was approached to be endorsed as Barbie Girl. But due to her professional commitments she had to postpone their Endeavour. At the turn of the century by which time Aishwarya Rai Bachchan had become a house hold name the world over Mattel again proposed that Aishwarya Rai Bachchan endorse the Barbie doll but as her prior commitments stretched her for time she had to decline yet again. The turn of the millennium special edition celebrity doll was to feature Naomi Campbell etc .

Here again on the eve of the favorite doll’s 50th Anniversary, Aishwarya is still the most sought after celebrities to be impersonated as a celebrity Barbie. Mattel was also keen to have her walk the ramp on Lakme Fashion Week ‘Barbie dolled up’ in a winning design as Single Likeness Barbie, which would be unveiled and auctioned for a charity of her choice. Conversely due to her prior commitments (filming of Vipul Shah’s Action Replay & her being honored Padmashree) she opted out of the event as she did not want to inconvenience the producer/director anymore while taking time out to this event.

Freida Pinto earns more than Ash, Kareena or Katrina

After the astounding success of Slumdog Millionaire, which went on to win eight Oscars, Freida Pinto’s star status in the international film industry grew several bounds. The Indian model-turned-actress has already bagged two prestigious projects with ace directors Julian Schnabel and Woody Allen. While Woody Allen’s venture is a Hollywood flick, she will be seen in the Julian Schnabel-directed Israeli film, which is based on the lives of the Palestinian and Israeli women.

Freida Pinto


With these prestigious projects, Freida’s pay packet has also gone up. Industry sources says that she is now earning a whopping £2 million, a feat that even the likes of Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Kareena Kapoor or Katrina Kaif haven’t yet achieved.

Saakshi Tanwar aka Parvati Bhabhi in Coffee House

Saakshi Tanwar aka Parvati Bhabhi of Kahaani Ghar Ghar Ki fame will now be seen in a film called Coffee House with versatile actor Ashutosh Rana.

We spoke to Saakshi about her role in the film,
“I play the character called Kavita who is the main protagonist and wife to Ashutosh Rana. She is running a newspaper while her husband is member of theatre group. She is more practical but at the same time she sticks to her ideologies.”

Further she said that, ”the film represents the youth, the unemployed, retired senior citizens. In this there is a fair blend of emotions, comedy and hard-hitting questions that would leave the audience thinking for quite some time.”

Specific reasons about signing this film, “very honestly my decisions are quick instinctive whether I go for films or television. The director of this film Gurbirji gave me my first break in television serial called Dastur, which used to be aired on Doordarshan and from this role I got an entry in television industry. When I was doing Kahaani, I got a call from Gurbirji and he offered me this role and instantly I said yes, even before reading the script. I was quite surprised that Gurbirji gave me an important role.”

Apart from this film have you signed any other tele-serial?
“No, in these 6 months break from television, I surely got some good offers but I was concentrating on films. I have completed my second film and that film has gone into post-production stage. But I can’t reveal anything about it because of the contract issues.”

So after doing a cameo in Ekta Kapoor’s Ckompany now she will be seen as a main lead in Coffee House which is releasing on 17th April, 2009.

We wish this talented actress all the very best for all her future projects.

Anurag Kashyap teams up with John Abraham again

After the no-show that was No Smoking director Anurag Kashyap and John Abraham nonetheless vowed to work together come what may.

But then Anurag went into Dev D with Abhay Deol and another film with Kunal Kapoor.

Now John and Anurag are back together in a film to be entitled Bombay Velvet.

Says Anurag, “John is the lead in my next film Bombay Velvet where he plays a real life hero of the masses from the 1960s. It’s a thriller based on real incidents. It’s an idea that we developed over the last four years by several minds including the history professor Gyan Prakash.”

Bombay Velvet will be produced by TV 18. Besides John it will also star Naseeruddin Shah and KayKay Menon.

“I’ve never handled this kind of budget before. I want to be sure of the script. After No Smoking John and I want to make sure our film is accessible to the audience. Today I realize where I had gone wrong in my earlier cinema. I’m working on my weak points. I tend to get repetitive. So I’ve brought in two writers in Bombay Velvet who criticized me the most for No Smoking.”

In-between Anurag had decided to make a no-holds-barred action film with Kunal Kapoor. A strange changeover of hero-giri considering John is built for the action routine.

“But that project Doga (based on the comics that are so popular in North India) to be produced by Sony International ( who entered the Indian market with Saawariya) requires a whole lot of preparation. It needs international –level special effects for which I need to go for internship to the US with my cinematographer Rajeev Ravi for some months. This would probably be the most expensive Indian film ever to be ever made. And I don’t want to slip up. And Kunal needs to do a helluva lot of preparation.I’ll go to Doga after Bombay Velvet,”informs Anurag.

At the moment Anurag is kicked by his deviant version of Saratchandra Chatterjee’s Devdas. “In Dev D I’ve taken just the spirit of Devdas and woven it around contemporary headlines from the last 10-15 years. I never liked Saratchandra’s novel. Often mediocre literature makes great cinema. What I liked about the novel was its honesty. But to me it’s more pulp fiction of its times than great literature.”

Anurag sees his Dev D as a bridge between the original novel and Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Devdas. “That’s why I asked Sanjay Bhansali’s assistant Vikram Motwani to write Dev D. Vikram loves Devdas. I connected newspaper stories to the character of Devdas to explore the motivations of today’s youth.”

One of the major themes in Devdas was miscommunication in a relationship. “In this era of sms that wouldn’t work,” explains Anurag. “Today my Dev and Paro are in touch regularly. The miscommunication here is due to the ego. Also alcoholism was a major issue back then. When Guru Dutt’s Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam was submitted for the Oscars the academy wrote a letter to Guru Dutt saying a woman who drinks was not a permissible taboo in their culture. Today alcohol isn’t such a shocking means of selfdestruction in our society. I wanted to shoot my Devdas in a contemporary context. I shot it in Delhi and Punjab where the reckless adrift youth have a lot of money and no sense of responsibility.”

Divya Dutta’s lesbian dreams

What’s up with Divya Dutta?
The actress who’s played decent character roles in the past suddenly decided to glam up in ‘You, Me aur Hum’. More recently in ‘Delhi 6’ she played the interesting character of ‘Jalebi’.

Now she’s cozying up to a female actor on screen in the film ‘Monica’ and is taking the challenge head on. The movie is about two struggling and vulnerable women who find solace in each other.

Before Divya many actresses had turned it down simply because they did not want to do the lesbian scene. In the past only actresses like Nandita Das and Shabana Azmi in ‘Fire’ and Amrita Arora and Isha Koppikar in ‘Girlfriend’ have shown some guts.

By the way, it wasn’t all that easy for Divya too as she was initially at a loss when she was told that she has a lesbian scene with co-star Kitu Gidwani.

But like a true blue professional she decided to do the scene.

The actress told a website that she approached the scene very professionally and discussed it with Kitu before the shoot. She really prepared herself mentally too for the same.

She’s said, “I mentally prepared myself. I was just an actor playing a character.”

Apparently, the scene turned out very well, shot aesthetically and isn’t vulgar or titillating.

Let’s wait and watch to see if it gives Divya a career makeover or not.

Monday, March 23, 2009

Exclusive look into Shahid-Priyanka's Kaminey

There is no denying the fact that Vishal Bhardwaj is one of the finest filmmakers of our country. After all he is the one who has given us some amazing films like Makdee, Maqbool and Omkara in the recent past. Now Vishal Bhardwaj is all set to present his latest venture Kaminey.

The film stars Shahid Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra along with Amole Gupte and from the looks of it, this one promises to be among the hottest flicks this summer. We brings you some exclusive stills from Kaminey.

Kaminey features Shahid Kapoor in a double role for the first time in his career. While one of his characters is called Guddu, the other one is called Charlie.

Both the characters played by Shahid are in complete contrast to his otherwise popular chocolate boy image. Shahid would be seen sporting a completely new bronzed and rugged look in the film.

He has even developed a chiseled physique for his character which can be seen in the last shot of the promos which has Shahid running bare-chested along with a few white horses.

Shahid's two characters in the film Guddu and Charlie are completely opposite from each other. While Charlie has a lisp, Guddu would be seen stammering.

Not much is known about the individual characters but it is learnt that one works as an executive in a corporate job and the other seems to be living life on the edge indulging in betting and other such nefarious activities.

The most interesting aspect of Kaminey is the fresh pairing of Shahid and Priyanka Chopra. The two actors share screen space for the first time and if the promos are any indication, then expect to see some sparks on screen.

Shahid has always been linked to his co-stars be it Kareena Kapoor (36 China Town, Jab We Met), Amrita Rao (Ishq Vishk, Vivah, Vaah! Life Ho To Aisi) or Vidya Balan (Kismat Konnection).

In fact, during the making of the film Shahid and Priyanka became quite close friends which resulted in some tongues wagging. Whether there is more to this good friendship one will have to wait and watch.

Priyanka Chopra who is currently on a high after her award winning act in Fashion and Dostana would be seen in a completely different get-up this time round.

Priyanka plays Sweety, a simple Maharashtrian girl and hence would be seen dressed in simple Indian dresses like salwar kameez and even the traditional Maharashtrian saree. The actress has even spoken quite a lot of Marathi in the film.

Kaminey is produced by UTV Motion Pictures. Most of the film has been shot in Mumbai and for a change Shahid Kapoor would be seen doing some action too.

Amole Gupte, who wrote the story and screenplay of Taare Zameen Par makes his acting debut with this film. Amole would be seen as a comical don called Bhope Bhau who has quite a menacing laugh.

Kaminey is produced by UTV Motion Pictures. Most of the film has been shot in Mumbai and for a change Shahid Kapoor would be seen doing some action too. Amole Gupte, who wrote the story and screenplay of Taare Zameen Par makes his acting debut with this film. Amole would be seen as a comical don called Bhope Bhau who has quite a menacing laugh.

Director Vishal is known as someone who likes perfection and hence is seen explaining Shahid how he wants the particular shot.