Oscar-nominated short film to catch the eye of Bollywood filmmaker

He is no `slumdog-turned- millionaire` but Mumbai boy Sagar Salunke, who plays the lead role in Oscar-nominated short film ‘Kavi’, has managed to catch the eye of Bollywood filmmaker Anurag Kashyap.

"I met Anurag Kashyap and he said he liked me in `Kavi` and will cast me in his next film," Sagar, who is all set to walk the red carpet at the Academy Awards night on
March 7, told reporters.

Kashyap said he will be taking Sagar in his next project, praising his performance in ‘Kavi’.

"Yes, I will be casting Sagar in my next movie. `Kavi` is an important and a moving film on the subject of child bonded labour," he said.

Sixteen-year-old Sagar plays the lead in debutante American director Gregg Helvey`s fictional Hindi film which has been nominated in the Best Live Action Short Film category at this year`s Oscars.

The 19-minute-long film, made as part of Helvey`s diploma project, is about a boy who wants to escape from a brick kiln where he is forced to work as a `modern-day slave`. He yearns to play cricket and go to school like a normal kid.

Sagar`s life is not much different from the one depicted in the film. He comes from a slum in Jogeshwari and is the youngest child in the family of six. But unlike his character, Sagar studies in the class IX and dreams of ecoming like Amitabh Bachchan and Aamir Khan.

He is looking forward to attend Oscar red carpet and hopes to return home with the golden statuette and meet President Pratibha Patil.

"I have already got warm clothes because it will be cold there but I will do my shopping there only. Someone has sponsored the trip for me," Sagar said.

"(If I win) I will first bring the Oscar to India, I will come straight here. I want to meet our President after I return with the award," he hoped.

The film was shot on a shoe-string budget with senior technicians like Berry John chipping in for free.

"We have put our heart and soul in this movie. We had no money when we started but we have come this far and hopefully will be able to highlight the issue further. We never expected Oscar nomination but are very happy," said producer Harish Amin.

He said he got a very positive response from the government and hopes that the film will make a positive difference in Sagar`s life.

"He comes from a very modest background and we are trying our best to get him education. There are only two people allowed at the Oscars but we wrote to the Academy because we want to give Sagar the exposure. Miracles do happen. His passport was ready within three weeks. But it is a long way," said producer Guneet Monga.

She said Oscar-winning films like "Slumdog Millionaire" and "Smile Pinki" made their task easy.

"They created a positive atmosphere for us and helped us tremendously. It is awesome the way world is looking at Indian film industry. It is very encouraging," she said.

Sajid Nadiawala is all set to entertain the masses with Housefull

After the success of laughter riot ‘Heyy Babyy’, filmmaker Sajid Nadiawala is all set to entertain the masses with his upcoming release ‘Housefull.’ A big-budget multi-starrer flick that boasts of a melange of Bollywood A-list actors like Akshay Kumar, Deepika Padukone, Lara Dutta, Riteish Deshmukh and Arjun Rampal, ‘Housefull’ promises to be high on glam factor.

Talking to a news daily on the hype surrounding ‘Housefull’, an elated Sajid Nadiawala said, “I’m happy that people have such high expectations from my movie. I can boast that we have made a very good product which the audiences will definitely love. We have the right cast, right script and right director and partner (presented by Eros International) and I don’t see any reason why it should not open to houseful audiences.”

“I love making grand films. I grew up on cinema with a big canvas and we have a heritage of making films for over 54 years now. We don’t cheat audiences by giving them bad content. We have the ‘Heyy Babyy’ team reuniting for the movie and we have the three lovely ladies with Arjun being the cherry on top,” added Nadiawala.

‘Housefull’ is supported by Sunil A Lulla and Kishor Lulla’s Eros International. “I hope audiences enjoy the first look, which is just a glimpse of the full on entertainment that is to follow. After the super success of Heyy Babyy, Eros is excited to join hands with Sajid Nadiadwala and Sajid Khan once again and hope to recreate the magic with this one,” Eros International’s Sunil Lulla said.

‘Housefull’ releases on April 30 and its promos are already making waves in the industry.

Technorati Tags: SajidNadiawala Housefull

Del.Icio.Us Tags: SajidNadiawala Housefull

The Bachchan family is going to give Holi celebrations a miss this year

The Bachchan family is going to give Holi celebrations a miss this year too, due to the death of a close relative of family friend Amar Singh and the recent Pune blast, which killed 17 people.

"We do not celebrate again this year. Primarily because of the death of a close relative of our family friend Amar Singhji, but also we do not feel comfortable in celebrating when our own have lost lives in the Pune blast recently," megastar Amitabh Bachchan posted on his blog bigb.bigadda.com Saturday night, from his Prateeksha residence.

The first family of Bollywood also skipped the festival celebrations last year as a mark of respect to the 26/11 terror attack victims and did not celebrate the same in 2008 due to Amitabh`s mother Teji Bachchan`s death.

The 67-year-old actor, however, did greet his fans for the festival.

"My wishes and those of my family remain, however, with those that do bring in this festival, a festival that fills us with the joy of achievement and change and produce," Big B wrote.

"Happy Holi! And may the colours bright and beautiful ever remain with you in celebration. May it bring peace and calm and may it become the turning point for good tidings," he added.

Del.Icio.Us Tags: Bachchan Holi

Technorati Tags: Bachchan Holi

Konkona Sen restricting herself to the bigger banners

With the kind of success she is enjoying, any other actor in her place would have signed films in dozens by now but not Konkona who continues to go by her instincts. Continuing to mix various genres of cinema without restricting herself to the bigger banners and known names, Konkona is content with the choices that she is making.

While ATITHI TUM KAB JAOGE? is a comedy on surface, at the core of it the film appears to be boasting of a realistic setting, what with Konkona and Ajay playing a married couple and Paresh Rawal being an unwelcome guest. Due to the realism factor involved, one tends to believe that Konkona must have felt like being in a comfortable zone. After all the talented actress has always reveled when it comes to being natural in her act.

"Why just this film", questions back Konkona, "I am sure most of the films that I have done before have boasted of a realistic setting. So there wasn’t a question of a ’comfort zone’ or anything."

How about the familiarity factor? With Ajay Devgn, she is working once again after OMKARA. Her old association must have come in handy, isn’t it?

"Yes, I knew him a little bit from the OMKARA days, but then I didn’t have many scenes with him", says Konkona, "Instead I had more scenes with Kareena and Saif. I worked more closely with Ajay this time around and it was reaffirmed once again that he is not really that serious and intense that he is made out to be. Instead he is so easy to work with since he is really relaxed and chilled out. I saw a really nice side of him."

Technorati Tags: KonkonaSen bigger

Del.Icio.Us Tags: KonkonaSen bigger

Shahrukh Khan and Saif Ali Khan returns leg-pulling hosts at Filmfare

Last to last year, when Shahrukh Khan and Saif Ali Khan took the stage to host the Filmfare Awards dressed in mere towels on their torsos and face-packs on their mugs, they pulled up everyone from their peers, colleagues and even critics.

The swashbuckling duo returns this month as the leg-pulling hosts once again for the 55th Filmfare Awards, slated for February 27, at the Yash Raj Studios in Andheri.

We hear that this time also SRK-Saif are going to take funny potshots and jabs at many a film celeb. Will they also give out the Na-real awards, a la the Razzies, this year?

A source says SRK and Saif are coming up with an entirely fresh skit this year. Expect the unexpected.

Well, we don’t mind as long as they stay within their clothes.

Del.Icio.Us Tags: ShahrukhKhan Filmfare

Technorati Tags: ShahrukhKhan Filmfare

Suniel Shetty feels Congress MP Rahul Gandhi to save hockey

Bollywood star Suniel Shetty feels Congress MP Rahul Gandhi should step in to save the sport from the "doldrums".

"Only Rahul Gandhi with his initiative and youth power can rescue hockey from the doldrums. Otherwise the game is doomed," Suniel told reporters.

Suniel intends to request Rahul Gandhi to bring a sense of direction to the game.

The fiasco on Saturday at the sports event hosted in Chandigarh by the AMR Sports Foundation, where the national hockey players apparently asked for Rs.500 million at the eleventh hour to play at the event, has not left Suniel disillusioned or discouraged.

"See, what happened in Chandirgarh was really sad. I don`t know what happened between the event`s organisers and our boys from the national hockey team. If they really asked for the money, then they shouldn`t have.

"But think of it from their point of view. Hockey players in our country are still so underpaid. They`re under so much pressure from their family to give up hockey and do something more paying. How long can our players withstand the financial pressure?"

The sports event at Chandigarh was touted as the ultimate teaser before the World Cup matches, but ended up being a damp squib. Dharmendra and his sons, Sunny and Bobby Deol, were shooting in Patiala and were expected to attend, cancelled at the last minute.

"It was not Dharamji`s fault at all. He was all set to travel from Patiala to Chandigarh when the organisers informed him not to come because of the chaos that happened over the money the hockey players demanded. I was also told not to come. But I didn`t listen. And I`m glad I went. There were 30,000 expectant people in the stadium at Chandigarh," said Suniel.

He feels every sport in the country barring cricket is in a shoddy condition.

"Look at the way our world-class sport persons like Abhinav Bhindra are treated. It`s a shame. We really need to respect sports and sportsmen other than cricket. We keep forgetting we have a Hockey World Cup coming up. And we cannot allow our hockey players to be demoralised in this way. Like I said, we need Rahul Gandhi to step in," said Suniel.

Del.Icio.Us Tags: SunielShetty Congress

Technorati Tags: SunielShetty Congress

Oscar winning editor Hughes Winborne to edit film Teen Patti

First it was Anurag Basu`s ‘Kites’ that had Brett Ratner from Hollywood to put together the material. Now director Leena Yadav has roped in Oscar winning editor Hughes Winborne to edit her film ‘Teen Patti’, which is releasing Friday.

Winborne, who has edited Will Smith starrer ‘In Pursuit Of Happyness’ and ‘Seven Pounds’ and also won an Oscar for his editing in Paul Haggis`s ‘Crash’, has `re-edited` ‘Teen Patti’, which was first edited by Kaushik Das.

"We needed that international sensibility to be placed on the footage. We sent a subtitled print to Hughes. But he soon did away with the subtitles. He got all the Hindi jokes and punchlines," Yadav told reporters.

Why was it felt that a Hollywood editor would be able to give ‘Teen Patti’ the global cut?

"It`s really about getting the rhythm right. The Western audience has a different pace for movie viewing. That pace worked beautifully in my film," said Yadav.

An international editor was not all that ‘Teen Patti’ got from abroad. The film also imported a stunt coordinator. The German stunt director Armin Sauer, who has worked with global biggies like Matt Damon in ‘The Bourne Supremacy’ and Ralph Fiennes in ‘The Constant Gardener’, had been called to supervise the stunts.

Yadav let go of all stops and made sure she pulled the punches as hard as Armin.

"These stunts that Mr. Bachchan has performed are very real, very raw. Not for a second was I allowed to feel like a woman on the sets. Agreed there were a lot of men on the set and two intimidating stalwarts like Mr Amitabh Bachchan and Sir Ben Kingsley. But any director regardless of gender would have fely equally intimidated by these two stalwarts."

It`s generally said that female directors have a much tougher time directing a film than their male counterparts. Yadav says she has never had to suffer because of her gender.

"Not once did I feel I was disadvantaged by my gender. On the sets, my authority was never questioned. Whether it was legends like Mr. Bachchan and Sir Ben or the newcomers, they all surrendered to my vision," she said.

Technorati Tags: Oscar TeenPatti

Del.Icio.Us Tags: Oscar TeenPatti

Akshay Kumar aims to excel in his facet as a businessman

Apart from his innings as an entertainer, Akshay Kumar has also carved his niche as a brand ambassador and model. Now, the actor aims to excel in his facet as a businessman too.

Earlier, Hari Om Productions has greenlighted ventures such as ’Waqt’, ’Namastey London’, ’Singh Is Kingg’ and ’De Dana Dhan’. "It was my dad’s biggest dream to start a production house," reveals Kumar in a tabloid chat. "But I do feel bad that I could not start Hari Om Productions when he was alive."

The invaluable lessons he’s picked up as a producer are proving profitable with his future trio of ventures: ’Khatta Meetha’, ’Tees Maar Khan’ and ’Patiala House’.

"I’m a businessman of commercial cinema," avers Akki. "I want all my producers and distributors to earn money."

Although the small screen is lucrative business, Kumar isn’t keen on venturing into TV, although ’Khatron Ke Khiladi’ (Colors) did earn him a fresh horde of fans. "I did the show coz’ it was a ’Fear Factor’ kind of concept," he asserts. "I could never do a quiz show."

On second thoughts, Action Kumar states, "As of now, I’m clear that Hari Om Productions will not get into television. But, you never know! Five years back, I’d said that I would never turn producer. A decade ago, I didn’t want to do ads. Look at me, now!."

Brand Akki speaking….

Del.Icio.Us Tags: AkshayKumar businessman

Technorati Tags: AkshayKumar businessman

TV actor Sunil Grover is all set to play a role similar to ‘Mr.Bean’

Stand-up comedian and TV actor Sunil Grover is all set to play a role similar to ‘Mr.Bean’, the lovable and comical character from the popular British series of the same name, in ‘Gutur Gu’ - a silent comedy show being launched by SAB TV.

The actor, who is better known as Sud of radio show ‘Hansi Ke Phuvare’, will be seen as Balu Kumar, a simple, innocent and super-enthusiastic character who invariably manages to get into misadventures in his everyday life.

Asked about the similarities his character has with ‘Mr.Bean’, Grover told IANS: ‘The thing is that since ‘Mr.Bean’ is also silent comedy, the genre is similar. Plus my look - the unruly tie and short trousers, but this (similarity) could be a coincidence. We never thought about making our character look like ‘Mr.Bean’, but it is a coincidence… there has been no intention for such a thing.’

‘Even if the characters look similar, it’s not bad. It’s not bad because it becomes easier for people to relate to and understand the concept,’ Grover said at the show’s launch here Tuesday.

‘It’s happening in India for the first time and the stories are in a family set-up. The show is for Indian masses, majority of whom may not have had the exposure to ‘Mr.Bean’ or ‘Charlie Chaplin’ and other such English content. Maybe you and I are aware of these shows, but lot of people don’t (know). For them it’s a new thing,’ he added.

Grover has earlier been seen as a host on shows like ‘Kaun Banega Champu’ and ‘Kya Aap Paanchvi Fail Champu Hai?’ on channel Filmy. As a stand-up comedian, the first-time actor had a tough time keeping his mouth shut while shooting for the show, but says he managed it fine. For his role, he did look for inspiration from classic silent comedies like ‘Charlie Chaplin’ but says he stopped watching them beyond a point.

‘I did start watching ‘Charlie Chaplin’, ‘Mr.Bean’ and ‘Laurel and Hardy’ before we started. But after watching two or three films, I thought, ‘Let it be now’. The set-up (of ‘Gutur Gu’) is different, the storytelling is different - so rather than concentrating on my own thing, I thought it would be wise to develop a chemistry with the other actors of the show,’ he said.

‘Gutur Gu’ is a weekly show, produced by B.P. Singh of ‘CID’ and ‘Aahat’ fame. It will be on air every Friday starting March 5.

Technorati Tags: SunilGrover Bean

Del.Icio.Us Tags: SunilGrover Bean

Ace designer Rohit Bal underwent an emergency angioplasty

Ace designer Rohit Bal, who suffered a massive heart attack on Tuesday morning, underwent an emergency angioplasty late last night after he complained of fresh chest pain.

Reports state that the doctors had to rush the procedure as a major part of Bal’s muscle was left damaged by the cardiac arrest. Talking about Bal’s condition, chairman of interventional cardiology at Medanta Dr Praveen Chandra, who conducted the angioplasty, said, "We realized that if we didn’t conduct the angioplasty immediately, Rohit Bal’s heart would suffer more damage."

As to what caused the heart attack, doctors said that one of Bal’s arteries - the left anterior descending (LAD), was blocked almost 90%. A thrombosuction to clear up the artery was then conducted on Bal following which he was administered a clot dissolving medicine to clear up the remaining partial block. A stent was then put into the artery. LAD supplies blood to the front of the left side of the heart.

Another artery - the right coronary, was also found to be blocked 100%. But doctors left that untouched since they found that the body had already created a bypass channel.

An intra aortic balloon pump has also been put on Bal which will support the fashion designer’s heart in the next 48 hours and help it recover faster. The balloon will increase blood flow to the heart muscle and decrease the heart’s workload through a process called counterpulsation.

"We will have to be watchful over the next 24 hours. He is on the intra aortic balloon pump and blood thinning medication. The attack was very severe," said Dr Chandra added.

Del.Icio.Us Tags: RohitBal emergency

Technorati Tags: RohitBal emergency

Oscar winner Barrie Osborne will produce Shekhar Kapur’s movie

Oscar winner Barrie Osborne of ‘The Lord of the Rings’ fame will produce Golden Globe nominated Shekhar Kapur’s directed and written sci-fi ‘Paani’.

Oscar winner A.R. Rahman is providing music for this futuristic film about water wars between rich and poor, which includes a love story also.

Spirituality author Deepak Chopra (Secrets of the Seven Sounds) is another producer while Oscar nominated Jill Bilcock (Moulin Rouge!) is the editor.

Cast of ‘Paani’, scheduled to be released in 2011, includes Filmfare winner Vivek Oberoi (Company).

Indo-American statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada (USA) today, said that this increasing collaboration between Bollywood and Hollywood might bring East and West closer.

Cinema was a powerful medium, and if used appropriately, it could bring positive changes in the world, Zed, who is chairperson of Indo-American Leadership Confederation, added.

Technorati Tags: Oscar ShekharKapur

Del.Icio.Us Tags: Oscar ShekharKapur

I am a very romantic person-Vivek Oberoi

Vivek Oberoi has many wishes - he is hoping his forthcoming film `Prince`, which is his first solo hero movie in five years, brings positive changes in his career and he also wants to meet his soulmate soon.

"I am very excited about the film because it has something that I have never done before. I am the solo hero, so it is very important for me. I hope it would give a positive turn to my career," Vivek told reporters after the music launch of "Prince" here Sunday.

Asked if he is seeing someone in real life, he said: "I am a very romantic person. I am waiting and hoping? someday I will also get someone special in my life. You never know someday I may find her in a crowd like this. I hope to find someone simple, someone lovely, someone who steals my heart."

Vivek`s last film as solo hero was 2005 movie "Kisna - The Warrior Poet".

Debutant director Kookie Gulati`s "Prince" is about one of the savviest thieves in the world who commits the biggest heist of his life. Vivek has teamed up with Nandana Sen, Neeru Bajwa and Sanjay Kapoor in the film.

Del.Icio.Us Tags: Romantic VivekOberoi

Technorati Tags: Romantic VivekOberoi

Salman Khan in the wish list of Deepika Padukone

She began her Bollywood journey with Shah Rukh Khan in `Om Shanti Om` but it is actor Salman Khan, who is on the wish list of Deepika Padukone.

"I am really looking forward to work with Salman," Deepika told reporters.

"In fact we were supposed to be paired up much earlier but then a couple of films didn`t quite work out. That`s sad but I am sure that in near future, we would be paired opposite each other," said the actress, who will next be seen with Farhan Akhtar in `Karthik Calling Karthik`.

The 23-year-old has already worked with hotshots like Akshay Kumar `Chandni Chowk To China` and Saif Ali Khan `Love Aaj Kal` and will next be seen opposite Abhishek Bachchan, Imran Khan and Neil Nitin Mukesh in `Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Se`, `Break Ke Baad` and YRF`s untitled film respectively.

Meanwhile, one wonders what happened to a film called `Kick` which was rumoured to be featuring Salman and Deepika together. The remake of the namesake Telugu film, it was supposed to be produced by Sajid Nadiadwala and directed by AR Murugadoss of `Ghajini` fame.

"It is plain rumour. Reports of me working with Salman in `Kick` are untrue. In fact I haven`t been offered any such film", the actress said.

While Deepika`s track record shows that she has been enjoying a release once every six months ever since the release of `Om Shanti Om`, the frequency is all set to
increase in the coming months.

Soon after `Karthik Calling Karthik` (February), Deepika would be seen in `Housefull` (April). Either `Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Se` or her film with Neil Nitin Mukesh would be
her next release thereafter. Incidentally, both the films are being shot at a brisk pace.

With so much work happening and no play, isn`t she worried of burn out? Doesn`t she fear getting all tired and worn out with so much work happening month after month?

"Honestly, I don`t look at working in films as a job. I really enjoy performing and what I do is something that gives me maximum pleasure and satisfaction. I am better off facing the camera", smiles Deepika.

"In any case, I am taken well care of both on and off the sets. I feel comfortable and secure and there are no complaints whatsoever," she said.

Del.Icio.Us Tags: SalmanKhan wish

Technorati Tags: SalmanKhan wish

Click is not my comeback in Bollywood-Sneha Ullal

Sneha Ullal was known as the Aishwarya Rai-lookalike when she entered the film world but the actress is now keen to carve a niche for herself. After featuring in spooky thriller "Click", she feels it`s time she proved her calibre to people who misguided her when she first came to Bollywood.

"See `Click` is not my comeback in Bollywood because the film doesn`t revolve around me. I need a film like `Lucky` (her debut vehicle) to make a comeback; then I can show what I can do," Sneha told reporters.

"Now it`s time I prove myself because there are a lot of people who misguided me in Bollywood - whom I trusted. I never knew Bollywood is like that, you know," she said.

The young actress has already signed two Hindi movies, including one opposite Akshay Kumar.

"I am doing a film with Ashok Tyagi where Akshay Kapoor is my co-star and there is another film with Shubir Mukherjee. The film is being launched by Joy Mukherjee`s son Sujoy. One of them is a thriller, the other is a love story and both are expected to release later this year," said Sneha.

Sneha made her debut in 2005 opposite Salman Khan and her second release was "Aryan: Unbreakable" (2006) with Sohail Khan. After that she moved down south and featured in Telugu films like "Nenu Meeku Telusa...?" and "Ullasanga Utsahanga" .

"I have done three films in the south and the fourth is releasing in April. In the south, people are very genuine. They will tell you the right things. I had rejected one film because I was not comfortable kissing on screen.

"Two months later, I got another film and I called the same director, whose film I had rejected, for some guidelines and he guided me properly. It`s unlike Bollywood. Here people will misguide you and take you in the wrong direction. That`s what happened with me," said Sneha.

The 22-year-old feels she owes a lot to southern cinema. "I won`t stop doing films in the south ever. It teaches you how to be an actor...how to be a lady. I don`t know about Bollywood as I haven`t done much work here."

But at the same time she is keen to leave her mark in Bollywood as well and says she will be less choosy about roles than earlier.

"I am going to do any role now that takes me to another level. If my role is good, I don`t mind even if it`s a D-grade film," said Sneha.

"I was choosy, but it didn`t work for me. I need to learn because that`s what an actor is all about. She needs to play different kinds of characters...You can`t stick to one genre."

Asked if she has any regrets about her initial years in Bollywood, Sneha said: "I don`t regret but if I am to re-do, I will re-do now. I don`t regret because `Lucky` gave me name; people know me today because of `Lucky`."

Technorati Tags: Bollywood SnehaUllal

Del.Icio.Us Tags: Bollywood SnehaUllal

Salman Khan will host India's largest cycling event

Galloping ’Veer’ is gonna have the ride of his life. On a Hercules bicycle, if you please! Mumbai will host India’s largest cycling event together with ’Being Human’, Salman Khan’s NGO which aims to elevate facilities in education and healthcare.

The Mumbai chapter of the ’BSA Hercules India Cyclothon’ (Feb 21,2010) is being touted as a "community ride which will promote the practice of cycling in the city." Cyclists, working professionals, house spouses and children too are expected to take part in the racy cyclothon, which will be kicked off with Khan’s starry presence.


"I loved to cycle as a child," revealed Khan at a Press con. "It was my dad who taught me cycling. In fact, even as I was learning to cycle with my dad holding my cycle, my mom called out to him. Absent mindedly, he let me go as he turned to answer her, but I went ahead… I had learnt to cycle! I used to cycle to the medical store to fetch medicines for dad."

Technorati Tags: SalmanKhan India

Del.Icio.Us Tags: SalmanKhan India

Actress Tabu is queasy donning that hallowed aura

In a virtually actor dominated industry, she’s one actress who stands apart. Tall in stature and taller on talent, Tabassum Hashmi casts a verrryyyyy long shadow.

Tabu, as she’s more renowned, has proved her worth in worthwhile efforts such as ’Maachis’, ’Chandni Bar’, ’Astitva’ and ’Hu Tu Tu’. With Ramesh Taurani’s ’Toh Baat Pakki!’, the national award winner will display her skills in the comic genre.

Most filmmakers regard her as the "hero" in her flicks, though, Tabu is queasy donning that hallowed aura. "All this is fine for the ego," she asserts in a media chat, "When I’m playing the protagonist, I have to work that much harder to come up with an outstanding performance."

Sharman Joshi who shares screen space with Tabu in ’Toh… reveals in a tabloid quote, "Earlier, she’d called me up after seeing ’Life In A Metro’ and ’Rang De Basanti’ and described my performance as ’superlative’. I was flattered, happy and humbled. When we started shooting together, I realised that she’s not just a fine actor, but a hassle free person, as well." Notch one more to the Tabu list…

Del.Icio.Us Tags: Tabu hallowed

Technorati Tags: Tabu hallowed

Arjun Rampal receiving end of Jiah Khan’s endless chattering about London

London girl Jiah Khan couldn’t contain her excitement when the shooting of Sajid Khan’s comedy film Housefull began in her home city. In the starting days of the shooting schedule in London Jiah began to dole out all the gyan about the city to director Sajid Khan and others.

Sajid, being fond of Jiah, heard her out most of the times, but when co-star Arjun Rampal was at the receiving end of Jiah’s endless chattering about London, he did the obvious thing. He gagged her mouth with a scarf.

Of course, it was just a prank and Jiah took it sportingly, but from thereon whenever anyone in the crew made a mere mention of London, everyone would turn to Jiah for verification.

On another occasion Jiah became the butt of a prank by none other than Akshay Kumar. While dining at a restaurant, Akshay stealthily slipped the cutlery into Jiah’s bag to make her look like a cutlery chor.

Poor Jiah! Now she knows what it’s like to work with irrevocable pranksters.

Del.Icio.Us Tags: ArjunRampal London

Technorati Tags: ArjunRampal London

Actor Nirmal Pandey passed away after a cardiac arrest

Actor Nirmal Pandey, known for his work in theatre, films and television, passed away after a cardiac arrest.

Best remembered for his work in films like Bandit Queen and ’God Mother’ and ’Iss Raat Ki Subah Nahin’, Pandey reportedly died while on his way to a hospital in Andheri around half past 2pm on Thursday.

According to family sources, he was not keeping well for some time.

He was 46 and is survived by his wife and two children.

Pandey carved a niche for himself playing negative characters on the big screen as well as on television, and his last project was the Telugu film ’Kedi’, where he again played a villain.

A graduate from the National School of Drama, Nirmal Pandey was also seen in films like ‘Daayraa’, ‘Pyar Kiya To Darna Kya’, ‘Shikari’ and ‘Train to Pakistan’.

Technorati Tags: NirmalPandey passed

Del.Icio.Us Tags: NirmalPandey passed

Amitabh Bachchan is deeply angered over the media report of Aishwarya Rai

Amitabh Bachchan is deeply angered over a latest media report that Aishwarya Rai, his daughter-in-law and wife of son Abhishek Bachchan, can’t have a baby right now because she’s suffering from stomach tuberculosis.

The news spread faster than fire on Thursday, evoking a strong response from Big B. On his blog, the superstar posted the article by a Mumbai daily and wrote his reaction below.

“I am too incensed and angered by the contents above !! Not a single portion of the article is true !!” Big B wrote.

Big B added that he won’t tolerate any derogatory reports about Ash, whom he called his daughter.

“If anyone will speak derogatorily about her, I shall fight for her till my last breath. If you have something to say to the men in the house, Abhishek or me, I shall bear it. BUT .. if you shall make injudicious remarks on the women in my home, I shall not tolerate it !!!” Big B made it unambiguously clear.

Abhishek, too, was appalled at the report and posted his reaction on twitter.

“The article is disgusting and appalling! as a husband and a man i’m shocked that one can talk so irresponsibly about a woman, that too FALSELY!! on a personal note, as a husband i will not stand for such rubbish being written about my wife,” Abhishek tweeted.

Del.Icio.Us Tags: AmitabhBachchan angered

Technorati Tags: AmitabhBachchan angered

The 55th Filmfare Awards 2009 to be held in Mumbai on February 27

A total of 111 films are competing in 37 categories at the 55th Filmfare Awards 2009 to be held in Mumbai on February 27, an organiser said on Wednesday.

"It’s been a fantastic journey for the past 55 years. So much has changed in the film industry and so much has changed with the awards function too. Fifty-five years ago, we started with three categories and a handful of films and today we have got 37 categories and 111 films participating," Tarun Rai, CEO of Worldwide Media Pvt Ltd, said.

"So it’s a completely different scale and it’s also fascinating in terms of kind of movies that are actually there for nomination this time," he said.

The nomination for each category is absolutely based on reader’s poll.

"It wasn’t difficult to nominate films or film personalities in any category because it was done through reader’s poll. A huge number of people read our magazines around the country and we also have filmfare.com and it’s been visited by millions of people not just in India but also across the world. For us it was easy. It will be difficult for the jury to choose one among the five in each category," Rai said.

Packed with entertainment, the award night would be attended by almost 500 people from the industry, including all the leading stars, he said.

"There are almost 500 people from the industry who would be present that night including the leading stars and the evening would be packed with glamour, great performances, suspense and excitement...it’s going to be a riot," said Rai.

Top stars are also going to perform this year on stage, he added.

Worldwide Media Pvt Ltd continues its association this year with the mobile operator Idea Cellular.

Del.Icio.Us Tags: Filmfare Mumbai

Technorati Tags: Filmfare Mumbai

Vidya Balan is really looking forward to the Jessica Lal’s project

Vidya Balan has got a tough job on hands, it seems. The actress, who is all set to play Jessica Lal’s sister Sabrina Lal in ‘No One Killed Jessica’, has been barred from taking cues from Sabrina to prepare for the same.

Don’t worry, there’s no political party or anything involved here, but filmmaker Gupta himself has decided to not let Balan meet Sabrina. Rajkumar, who is really looking forward to the project, wants Vidya to pull off the role in her own way.

According to a source, Gupta doesn’t want Vidya to meet Sabrina because he believes that she would then pick up the latter’s mannerisms and replicate Sabrina’s actions when filming. He wants her to do the role in a different manner.

‘No One Killed Jessica’ also stars actress Rani Mukerji in a very important role - that of a journalist on the lines of a firebrand reporter Barkha Dutt. However, Jessica Lal’s role will be played by a newcomer in the film. Grapevine has it that Kareena Kapoor had been approached for playing Jessica in the film, but the actress turned down the offer thinking that she would have had very little to do especially as the character gets murdered in the early part of the story.

Guess Vidya surely have to work really hard for it.

Technorati Tags: VidyaBalan project

Del.Icio.Us Tags: VidyaBalan project

Konkona Sen remains at the crossroads of commercial and parallel cinema

She’s quite a puzzle herself, fitting with rapid finesse into the most complex of roles. Besides, she remains at the crossroads of commercial and parallel cinema, walking the tightrope between the two with remarkable ease.

National award bagging actor Konkona Sen Sharma, has stumbled upon a novel manner of passing her free time, between shots.

A close source of the sets of her forthcoming flick: ’Atithi Kum Kab Jaoge?’ reveals that whenever she had leisure time, KSS would scoot off to complete her crossword puzzles. And boyyyy, by the looks of it, it seemed to have caught her fancy in a major manner.

’Crossword Queen’, anyone?

Del.Icio.Us Tags: KonkonaSen commercial

Technorati Tags: KonkonaSen commercial

Aamir Khan really doesn’t like is acrimonious aggression

One thing Aamir Khan really doesn’t like is acrimonious aggression. So the actor, who has been locking horns with Javed Akhtar over the significance of lyricists in songs, has now tendered his resignation from the committee reviewing the proposed amendment in copyright laws. And it’s all owing to the committee members who seem to have a problem with all the suggestions coming from the fabled actor.

The committee, which was formed on January 4th to revise the copyright law, had Boney Kapoor, Javed Akhtar, Bhushan Kumar, Vishal Bhardwaj, Madhu Mantena, Mukesh Bhatt, Prasoon Joshi and Aamir Khan as its members.

Talking about Aamir’s rift with the committee, a source said, “Aamir felt that all his efforts were a waste because some people weren’t happy with his inputs on the issue. He also felt that people were just targeting him despite the fact that he had nothing to gain out of the matter. So after he read some reports in the media, he just decided to distance himself from it. He sent his resignation to Kapil Sibal yesterday evening.”

In his letter to Sibal, Aamir wrote, “I cannot make any meaningful contribution in this atmosphere. Aggression of this type leaves me feeling very disillusioned and sad and I am unable to function.”

The actor also told Sibal, “I believe that amendments to the Copyright Act are long overdue and I am so happy that a person like you is spearheading this movement. I believe that the changes that you are bringing about in the sphere of education are so dynamic, progressive and positive, that I have absolutely no doubt in my mind that you will do the same in the field of copyright.”

Technorati Tags: AamirKhan aggression

Del.Icio.Us Tags: AamirKhan aggression

Divya Dutta wants to look different and refreshing in every film

After a sweeping performance in `Delhi-6`, Divya Dutta does not want to be straitjacketed in any image and wants to look different and refreshing in every film.

"I have laid a very basic ground rule for myself. I should be a favourite with the audience, they should love me, my role, my acting, appreciate my talent. I don`t want to repeat any of my roles, ever," Divya told reporters.

After her rough looks in `Delhi-6`, Divya will now be seen in traditional attire. Splashes of colours cover her from head to toe as she sports a Kashmiri look for her latest film, "Sukhmani - Hope for Life", which released last Friday.

"I play a Kashmiri girl who is quiet by nature, a very intense women who walks with head high and grace," she said.

"Sukhmani..." is a film that shows both good and evil sides of people, Divya says. "When faced with exceptional circumstances, people react differently. It shows that sometimes we have to make choices that are not always accepted by society."

Divya is lucky because "all kinds of different roles come my way. I don`t have to struggle much to get the scripts. You would see me doing comedy, action... So basically, I haven`t kept my door closed by making a certain kind of image."

Apart from Divya, the "Sukhmani..." cast includes Juhi Chawla, Gurdas Maan, Anoop Soni and Bhagwant Maan. The film is the directorial debut of Gurdas Maan`s wife Manjeet Maan.

"We have done three films together. It has always been a delight to work with Maan ji (Gurdas Maan). The quality and the work style are very different and refreshing," Divya says.

"It was fun to spend some good moments with my co-actors. I feel a great connection, a certain kind of bonding between us.

"Maan ji has a very genuine soul. He keeps the atmosphere pepped up with his jokes and pranks. He has a very positive attitude which brings positive vibes to the sets."

The actress, who has made a mark with her performances in films like `Delhi-6`, `Baghban`, `Aaja Nachle` and `Veer Zaara` and has also experimented with TV serial `Shanno ki Shaadi`, feels cinema lasts longer in the hearts of the audience.

"Cinema has a greater impact as it leaves a long lasting memory. Television, on the other hand, is also good but requires a lot of time," she adds.

The music for `Sukhmani...` is by Jaidev Kumar and the lyrics are written by Gurdas Maan himself.

Including Gurdas Maan, singers like Shreya Ghoshal, Krishna, Arvinder Singh and Simerjit Kumar have sung the songs in the film and for the first time Juhi Chawla has sung two songs herself.

After `Sukhmani...`, Divya will be seen in Subhash Ghai`s `Hello Darling`. She will be seen doing a few women-oriented roles and also doing the role of a serious journalist in Raja Mukherjee`s upcoming projects, apart from featuring in Amol Gupte`s upcoming project.

Del.Icio.Us Tags: DivyaDutta film

Technorati Tags: DivyaDutta film

My Name Is Khan's biggest ever opening Bollywood film at the UK

Shah Rukh Khan starrer `My Name Is Khan` has become the biggest ever opening Bollywood film at the UK box office by making 936,000 pound in its four day weekend.

The film, which was released by 20th Century Fox on February 12, is the widest Bollywood release, being shown on 129 screens at 91 sites across the UK, the film surpasses the previous recod of 749,000 pounds set by `Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna`, which also starred Khan.

The Karan Johar directed movie, which reunited the Khan and Kajol on screen for the first time since their 2001`s `Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham`, is a love story set against the backdrop of 9/11 America.

Khan plays a Muslim man suffering from Asperger`s syndrome, who marries a Hindu single mother. But their idyllic life is torn apart in the shadow of violence. `My Name Is Khan` is the first Bollywood movie to be picked up by a major Hollywood studio for marketing and distribution.

"Expanding our distribution network into the Bollywood arena has been a challenging and exciting experience. We are very fortunate to be working alongside the best possible talent associated with Bollywood," said Andrew Turner Director of Sales at Twentieth Century Fox, the global
distributors of the movie.

"We are very proud to be associated with this extraordinary film and really could not have hoped for a better start with our entry into the Bollywood market place," Turner said.

Technorati Tags: Bollywood UK

Del.Icio.Us Tags: Bollywood UK

Ritesh Deshmukh was seen stepping into the shoes of Big B

We all know that Ritesh Deshmukh’s wishes were granted by genie Amitabh Bachchan in “Aladdin’, though the movie didn’t work wonders at the box-office. Now if sources are to be believed, Ritesh was seen stepping into the shoes of Big B as genie while promoting his forthcoming Sajid Khan directed “Housefull’.

The source reveals, “While doing the photo shoot for promotion purpose, Ritesh was seen playing genie and was asking everyone to make a wish. Present on the shoot were director Sajid Khan, Ritesh Deshmukh and gorgeous Lara Dutta. All three were seen having a gala time.”

Wonder, if Akshay Kumar was present there; what wish would he make? Considering the confidence of Sajid in one of the recent interviews to a web-portal, it doesn’t seem Akshay needs any genie. What say Sajid?

Del.Icio.Us Tags: RiteshDeshmukh shoes

Technorati Tags: RiteshDeshmukh shoes

Shah Rukh Khan My Name Is Khan broken the record in North America

Grossing an estimated $1.86 million at the box office in its first weekend, Shah Rukh Khan starrer `My Name Is Khan` has broken the record for the largest opening weekend ever for a Hindi film in North America.

The Fox Searchlight release directed by Karan Johar averaged $15,500 from 120 theatres across the United States and Canada over Feb 12-14 weekend. The previous record was held by Shah Rukh`s musical extravaganza "Om Shanti Om" which grossed $1.76 million from 114 theatres when it was released over the Diwali holiday weekend in 2007.

"My Name Is Khan" opened Friday with $444,000, rose 65 percent to $734,000 Saturday, and is estimated to dip 7 percent to $682,000 on Sunday, Valentine`s Day.

Monday`s Presidents` Day holiday in the US will lead to a four-day debut of more than $2 million. MNIK also generated the highest per-theatre average of any film in the Top 20 over the weekend.

Meanwhile "My Name Is Khan" is getting good reviews from US critics with variety.com saying "This riotously overstuffed and enormously enjoyable drama races forward with incredible drive."

Trade publication Hollywood Reporter in a review from Berlin said, "It`s well worth the 162-minute journey" noting "Shah Rukh Khan comes to America (although in a Bollywood film) and shows why he is an Indian mega-star."

"The thing about some Bollywood superstars is that they are actually fine actors as well as charismatic performers. So it`s not surprising in `My Name Is Khan` to see Bollywood mega-star Shah Rukh Khan - he`s light-years beyond a mere superstar in Hindi cinema`s cosmology - challenge himself to expand his acting range and possibly his international fan base."

"This is a movie not built for subtlety, but it does tackle a subject American movies have mostly avoided - that of racial profiling and the plight of Muslim-Americans. It also allows Shah Rukh Khan to display his talent to an even wider audience," it says.

The Los Angeles Times called it "a sweeping epic in the melodramatic Bollywood manner yet emerges as a potent, engaging and timely entertainment." MNIK "is a potent, energetic heart-tugger and Khan and Kajol, major Bollywood stars, are highly appealing and equal to the demand of their emotion-charged roles."

"At its best `My Name Is Khan,` set mainly in America, is an affecting fairy tale about the perils of goodness," said the New York Times.

"`Khan` is one of a handful of Hindi films ("New York," "Kurbaan") about Indians living in a paranoid, post-9/11 America, and there`s something fascinating about looking at this country through a Bollywood lens, even when the story is a kind of fairy tale."

"Skillfully directed by Karan Johar and with an evocative score by Shankar, Ehsaan & Loy, `Khan` jerks tears with ease, while teaching lessons about Islam and tolerance," the Times said.

Del.Icio.Us Tags: ShahRukhKhan America

Technorati Tags: ShahRukhKhan America

Ameira Punvani used to create Amitabh Bachchan`s look in Teen Patti

Cheap cloth, ill-fitted trousers, checked cotton shirts and an old watch from Mumbai`s Chor Bazaar - these are what designer Ameira Punvani used to create Amitabh Bachchan`s look in `Teen Patti` where he plays a reclusive mathematician.

She says the megastar gave her enough freedom to experiment with his look.

"I was given the liberty to go to the biggest shops, but I instead decided to go to small markets to buy stuff. For Mr.Bachchan I created a look that had trousers, which were a mix of polyester, cheap material, around Rs.200 per metre along with checked cotton shirts," Punvani told IANS in an interview.

"That was something a college professor would wear ; so we zeroed in on that. Also, I didn`t make the fit of the trousers very contemporary. I gave it a double pleated American-cut style - it makes the trousers look a little baggy," she added.

Directed by Leena Yadav, "Teen Patti" features Amitabh as a mathematician trying to evolve a thesis on probability by relating it to the Indian card game of `teen patti`. Also starring Hollywood veteran Ben Kingsley, the film is set to release Feb 26.

Punvani says there was no compromise on the detailing.

"We paid a lot of attention on detailing. So much so that I had to get a watch for Mr.Bachchan to complete his look. He wears the best of watches, but I went to Mumbai`s Chor Bazaar and got a very old watch from there that was not even automatic.

"After getting it, I was sceptical about Mr.Bachchan`s reaction. I didn`t know whether he would wear that watch or not. But he was completely fine with the idea," said Punvani.

The designer is all praise for Bachchan. "Mr.Bachchan is such a marvellous person. He is such a huge personality and has an aura around him that you get scared when you first meet him. But he makes you so comfortable.

"He gave me a free hand and had no problems trying the costumes. He always used to give me time despite being so busy and patiently tried out everything. He is extremely professional," she said.

Punvani says she event visited colleges for ideas to design his look.

"Mr.Bachchan is playing a reclusive, genius maths professor in the film. For his look, I first remembered how my teachers used to look. I visited various colleges to see how professors are dressed there.

"The first thing that I noticed was that all of them were very simple and they were not really bothered about their outward appearance. So for Mr.Bachchan`s look I decided to go for authentic materials to make the character look close to reality," she said.

Punvani, who has in the past designed costumes for films like "Guru", "Shortkut - The Con Is On" and "Zinda" among others, was responsible for crafting the look of the entire Indian cast of the film including R. Madhavan, Dhruv Ganesh, Shraddha Kapoor, Siddharth Kher and Vaibhav Talwar among others.

Her next project is Shahid Kapoor-starrer "Badmaash Company" for Yash Raj Films.

Technorati Tags: Amitabh achchan TeenPatti

Del.Icio.Us Tags: Amitabh achchan TeenPatti

Priyanka Chopra's Kaminey is all set to impress foreign ones

After garnering overall success from Indian critics and audience, UTV Motion Pictures’ blockbuster hit ‘Kaminey’ is all set to impress foreign ones.

Reports of late say that this Shahid Kapoor-Priyanka Chopra starrer has been invited for a special screening at the 8th Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles (IFFLA) in the ’Bollywood by Night’ section. The festival will commence from April 22nd and will go on till April 25th, 2010 at the ArcLight Hollywood.

The ‘Bollywood by Night’ section reported to have more than 21 Bollywood films screened that are a blend of classic, fresh and noteworthy Bollywood films.

Siddharth Roy Kapur, CEO of UTV Motion Pictures said, “It is an honour to be invited for the Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles. Kaminey received tremendous response in the domestic and international markets and this platform is another proof of its success. Kaminey is testament to what can be achieved when you bring together a visionary director, a talented cast and crew, a compelling script and great production values. We are extremely proud to have produced a film like Kaminey.”

IFFLA is held with a view to appreciate Indian cinema and the culture by screening renowned films, supporting budding filmmakers, recognizing the industry performers and promoting the diverse perspective of the Indian Diaspora.

Del.Icio.Us Tags: PriyankaChopra foreign

Technorati Tags: PriyankaChopra foreign

Actress Aishwarya Rai to be suffering from lip problem

Nahi, the ex-Miss World doesn’t have any secrets. In fact the poor beauty said to be suffering from lip problem.

It all started when the actress had an overdose of antibiotics. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan had been keeping on her toes these days, shooting for Vipul Shah’s ‘Action Replayy’ at Manori Island.

Suddenly yesterday she got down with fever and severe throat infection; for which Aishwarya took some medication before leaving for the shoot. However, during the course of the shoot, Ash felt that her lips have got swollen.

The actress, who didn’t want to halt the day’s work, without creating a fuss then insisted to continue the shooting by covering her face with a dupatta.

The remaining portions were said to have been shot with Ash keeping her face covered.

Technorati Tags: AishwaryaRai lip

Del.Icio.Us Tags: AishwaryaRai lip

Shah Rukh Khans `My Name Is Khan` opened to a huge response in Bangalore

Shah Rukh Khan-starrer `My Name Is Khan` opened to a huge response in Bangalore Friday but got a lukewarm response in other parts of Karnataka like Hubli, Belgaum and Davangere.

The film opened to a great response in all the six multiplexes and 11 single screens in Bangalore.

Bijan Bose, Regional Head-Film cell (South India) told reporters, "The response for the weekend is fantastic. Even the online bookings have been extremely good. We hope this trend will continue in the next seven days."

Abid, programme head of Inox, said "MNIK" is getting very good response in two INOX multiplexes in Garuda Mall and Swagath Complex. "We are running nine shows in the Garuda Mall and five shows in Swagath Complex INOX cinemas. We are getting good inquiries for Saturday and Sunday through online bookings and advance bookings," he said.

The lukewarm response in many cities in North Karnataka was due to the disturbances created on account of Sri Rama Sena Chief Pramod Muthalik`s face being blackened in Bangalore by Congress workers Thursday evening.

Many towns in North Karnataka observed shutdown on Friday and some have even announced shutdown Saturday. This affected the collections of `MNIK` on the opening day.

"Generally, Shah Rukh`s films open to a huge response, but somehow `MNIK` has not got a good opening in Hubli and Belgaum, two major centres of North Karnataka region," said well-known exhibitor and distributor Venkataraman Babji, who is the owner of Padma theatre in Hubli.

Del.Icio.Us Tags: ShahRukhKhan Bangalore

Technorati Tags: ShahRukhKhan Bangalore

Sonam Kapoor has finally bagged the role with Shahid Kapoor

Finally, Pankaj Kapur can heave a sigh of relief. For if the latest buzz is to go by, his long search for finding a suitable heroine opposite beta Shahid Kapoor in his directorial debut Mausam has ended.

The girl who has finally bagged the role is - Sonam Kapoor.

Earlier Kapur had announced that he was looking for a fresh female face for the film, which is based on an out-and-out romantic story. Many girls, including Govinda’s gorgeous daughter Narmada, Shatrughan Sinha’s daughter Sonakshi Sinha and even the ‘Rocket Singh’ girl Shazahn Padamsee were auditioned. But none seemed to have impressed the Kapur senior.

Himself a terrific actor, Pankaj reportedly wanted a girl who not just had good looks but could also act well. The search eventually ended at Sonam, who has already done two films (Saawariya and Delhi 6).

Though an official confirmation is still awaited, it’s believed that everyone in the film’s unit, from producers to creative team, approved of Sonam as Shahid’s heroine in the film.

Technorati Tags: SonamKapoor role

Del.Icio.Us Tags: SonamKapoor role

Superstar Hrithik Roshan urged message to fans about MNIK

Superstar Hrithik Roshan has finally joined the micro-blogging site Twitter and in his maiden message he urged fans to go and watch Shah Rukh Khan starrer My Name Is Khan.

"Spread humanity with a vengeance, go watch My Name Is Khan... and for the record, my name is Hrithik Roshan," he posted as his first Tweet.

Shah Rukh is courting controversy for favouring Pakistani cricketers’ inclusion in the Indian Premier League (IPL) - a stand which has cast a shadow over the release of his film My Name Is Khan.

Hrithik received a warm welcome from his close friends, filmmaker Karan Johar as well as actors Abhishek Bachchan and Genelia D’Souza on the social networking site.

"One of my closest friends and one of the finest actors I know is here! Hrithik Roshan... give him love Tweeple!" posted Johar, whose controversial film My Name Is Khan is finally releasing Friday.

Abhishek said: "Please welcome my dear friend to the chaos!"

And Genelia welcomed him saying, "Twitterverse".

The 36-year-old is awaiting the release of his much-hyped film Kites, which is being co-produced by his father Rakesh Roshan’s Filmkfraft and Reliance BIG Cinemas. It is set to hit screens on May 21.

Del.Icio.Us Tags: HrithikRoshan fans

Technorati Tags: HrithikRoshan fans

Kamal Haasan’s daughter Shruti Haasan is dating Siddharth

Kamal Haasan’s daughter Shruti Haasan is dating Siddharth. While it was hinted so far, they are moving towards formalizing it.

Tongues started to wag about the couple after they were seen entering the premiere of Siddharth’s film, ‘Striker’ together. Now, it looks like Shruti has introduced Siddharth to her parents.

According to sources, her family is aware that the couple is getting increasingly fond of each other. Shruti also seems serious about him. She has even got Siddharth to meet her sister and they get along well.

Del.Icio.Us Tags: ShrutiHaasan dating

Technorati Tags: ShrutiHaasan dating

Bipasha Basu will ape living legend Zeenat’s maverick role

Bipasha’s latest super lean look seems to have finally paid off! The stunner, who has been sporting an uber glamorous look after her recent makeover, is set to take her image transformation on-screen too. And after playing the typical goody-two-shoes, Bips will now be seen essaying the role of a junkie in Rohan Sippy’s ‘Dum Maro Dum’.

With this, Bips will ape living legend Zeenat’s maverick role from the blockbuster ‘Hare Rama Hare Krishna’. As per reports, Bipasha will be playing a gorgeous junkie from Goa opposite Telugu star Rana Daggubati in the film. And the stunner will be seen sharing screen space with Abhishek Bachchan, Prateik Babbar and Aditya Pancholi.

Confirming the news, Rohan told a daily, “Yes we have signed Bipasha for the film as she fits the character perfectly. Zeenat Aman is my all time favourite and I hold her in high esteem”.

Speaking about the film the director added, “There is no one who can be like her but yes, Bipasha has appeal and connects well with the audience. But the film has nothing to do with ‘Hare Rama Hare Krishna’, except elements like gangsters, drugs and the fact that it is set in Goa.”

Technorati Tags: BipashaBasu legend

Del.Icio.Us Tags: BipashaBasu legend

Beyonce and Alicia Keys are filming a music video in Rio de Janeiro

Grammy Award-winning singers Beyonce and Alicia Keys are filming a music video in Rio de Janeiro.

Sheri Ladner is a publicist with RCA Music Group, which includes Keys` label, J Records. She says the singers are shooting a video for their duet "Put It In a Love Song." The song is from Keys` recently released album "The Element of Freedom."

Brazilian television on Tuesday showed the singers performing together in front of cameras in the Morro da Conceicao shantytown. Ladner says the video will have scenes recorded at several locations across Rio.

Keys already filmed one segment in Rio`s Dona Marta slum. That shantytown became renowned worldwide after Michael Jackson went there to film the 1996 video "They Don`t Care About Us."

Del.Icio.Us Tags: Beyonce video

Technorati Tags: Beyonce video

Controversies just don’t seem to leave Shah Rukh Khan

Controversies just don’t seem to leave Shah Rukh Khan. The actor, who has been facing the ire of Shiv Sena over his comments on Pakistani cricketers, has landed in another murky controversy. And this time it’s concerning the new airport security system at UK airports. Shocking all, the actor in a talk show, stated that he autographed printed nude scans of his own body for two female security officers at the Manchester Airport.

And this comes after, the British transport secretary said last week that images taken by new full-body X-ray scanners, which capture in detail the human anatomy, would be destroyed immediately and not pose a risk to travellers` privacy.

Speaking at the show, Shah Rukh said, "I came out [of the scanner] and then I saw these girls and they had these printouts. So I looked at them, I thought maybe it`s a form you`re supposed to [sign] ... and you could see everything inside. And then I`ve autographed them for them”.

As for the statements of British transport secretary go, Lord Adonis said, "A pat-down search is a pretty intrusive procedure but people accept that because it is important that we do detect whether there are weapons or other powerful substances that people may be carrying. A body scanner is in the same category -- it is very important to stress that the images, which are captured by body scanners are immediately deleted. Staff are, of course, properly trained and supervised who manage the body scanners."

Technorati Tags: Controversies ShahRukhKhan

Del.Icio.Us Tags: Controversies ShahRukhKhan

Actor Aamir Khan's cold war on the director of ‘Delhi Belly’

Perfectionist actor Aamir Khan, who is infamous for his tiff with all his directors and accused of ghost directing his films, is once again in the news for a similar reason. The actor recently declared a cold war on the director of ‘Delhi Belly’, Abhinav Deo over difference in opinion. Reportedly, the actor and director are not seeing eye-to-eye and the film is clearly in trouble.

A source told a news daily, “Abhinav is irritated that Delhi Belly has been kept on the backburner. He has moved on and is now directing ‘Crooked’. How long could he wait?”

The source further added, “Aamir is not at fault. He has been very busy and likes to get involved in one project at a time. He will start working on Delhi Belly soon. But yes, Aamir does like to be in total charge of whatever his production house makes.”

Well, it seems that Abhinav Deo is going through what Amol Gupte experienced during the making of ‘Taare Zameen Par’. We feel sorry for the director who is up and against a creative ogre like Aamir Khan.

Del.Icio.Us Tags: AamirKhan war

Technorati Tags: AamirKhan war

Ram Gopal Varma`s Rann inspiring Nepal`s former Maoist guerrillas

Two years afterRam Gopal Varma `s remake of the Bollywood classic `Sholay` suffered censors` scissors in Nepal, the film director`s new release `Rann` has met with an entirely different response here, with top Maoist leaders calling it "inspiring".

Nepal`s former Maoist guerrillas, who had often called for a ban on Hindi films during their 10-year "People`s War", have now trooped to see "Rann", starring Amitabh Bachchan, who plays a media tycoon grappling with wily politicians.

Former Maoist finance minister Baburam Bhattarai and his wife and former tourism minister Hisila Yami were given a red-carpet treatment by the owners of the Gopi Krishna multiplex in Kathmandu, close to deposed king Gyanendra`s former residence, when they turned up to watch "Rann" at a special screening, the Kantipur daily reported.

At a time Nepal`s politicians are busy drafting the new constitution, the Maoist couple expressed a desire to see the medley of news and politics, two essential ingredients of the Maoist movement. The two chose the latest Bollywood release over James Cameron`s blockbuster "Avatar" and were led to a special cabin in the theatre to watch Amitabh Bachchan, Paresh Rawal and Gul Panag in action.

As the film started, more Maoist leaders began to enter. They included two of the deputy commanders of the Maoists` underground People`s Liberation Army, Nanda Kishor Pun Pasang and Chandra Prakash Khanal Baldev as well as Maoist MPs Top Bahadur Rayamajhi and Netra Bikram Chand.

The otherwise frantically busy leaders watched the film for nearly two hours, mesmerised. At the end, while leaving the theatre, Bhattarai, whose name had been doing the rounds as the next prime minister of Nepal, had a comment.

"Films like these are an inspiration for us politicians," the daily quoted the scholar from New Delhi`s Jawaharlal Nehru University as saying. "It sends out the message that politicians have to reach top posts through ability."

Yami, a former student of Delhi`s School of Planning and Architecture and a peer of Arundhati Roy also had a comment. "The film teaches us that you shouldn`t join politics till you have won people`s faith," the former minister said.

"Even if you try to hide your sins by bribing the media, one day they will be out."

The praise was in sharp contrast to the way the censor authorities in Nepal had cut "Ram Gopal Varma ki Aag", a remake of "Sholay", two years back.

The Maoist couple had also recently watched "3 Idiots", the top-grossing Bollywood film starring Aamir Khan and directed by Raj Kumar Hirani. Last year, the Maoist-led government banned Bollywood action comedy "From Chandni Chowk to China" for wrongly describing India as the birthplace of the Buddha, who was born in southern Nepal.

Del.Icio.Us Tags: Rann Nepal

Technorati Tags: Rann Nepal

Girish Karnad called Slumdog Millionaire the worst film he has ever seen

Padma Bhushan awardee and Jnanpith award winner Girish Karnad Monday called `Slumdog Millionaire` the worst film he has ever seen.

Karnad, a towering, multi-faceted creative personality in the field of theatre, literature, acting and academics, was speaking at a lecture on `Colonialism and Culture` at the DD Kosambi lecture series, organised by the government of Goa in Panaji.

"I have never seen anything worse than `Slumdog Millionaire`," Karnad said during a question-answer session which followed his lecture.

He also said the movie had completely failed in India. India`s hunger for Oscars showed "our own inferiority complex", he added.

"I don`t know why we are obsessed with the Oscars or the Grammy (Grammy awards)," Karnad said, adding that the Indian film industry was perfectly healthy in every sense of the word.

Released in 2008, Danny Boyle`s "Slumdog Millionaire" swept the 81st Academy Awards by winning eight Oscars. Out of the eight awards, three were won by Indian artistes - Resul Pookutty, AR Rahman and Gulzar.

Technorati Tags: GirishKarnad Slumdog

Del.Icio.Us Tags: GirishKarnad Slumdog

Shahid Kapoor and Deepika Padukone are Jilted in love

Just when you thought that Shahid Kapoor has been linked to every single dame in B-town, the stunner is said to be dating the sultry Deepika Padukone. Jilted in love, the twosome are said to be the new ‘IT’ couple of Bollywood, trying to get over their heartbreak as they look for comfort in each other. Believe it or not, but sources state that the gorgeous duo is taking forward their affair slow yet steady.

From going pub-hopping to visiting each other’s pad, the two are said to be nearly inseparable. And sources state that when the two are not partying together, they can be found at each other’s home. “Shahid’s car was parked outside Deepika’s Bandra residence a few days ago,” says a source.

Talking about their relationship, a source told a daily, “Shahid and Deepika - both are quite headstrong and have moved on from their failed relationships. They are only concentrating on their career at the moment. They want to have a strong foothold in the industry and think alike, which is the main reason why they have clicked together.”

And it’s not like our filmmakers are ignoring this new affair. Buzz has it that the two are so much in love that they are now approached to star together in a film. Talking about the film, the source stated, “One of Shahid’s close friend is trying to work on the project. Deepika and Shahid are vaguely aware of the project and are definitely keen on working together since both of them are in-demand.”

And in love, is what it seems!

Technorati Tags: DeepikaPadukone love

Del.Icio.Us Tags: DeepikaPadukone love

Films normally are for entertainment-Shah Rukh Khan

It has some religion, a bit of politics and it`s set in the backdrop of a world shaking event, but for Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan his latest venture is not so much about Islam post-9/11 as it is entertainment.

"The film is mainly entertainment," Shah Rukh said in a lengthy interview from New York on a trip last week to promote his new film, "My Name Is Khan" (MNIK), releasing in the US February 12.

"If some issue is taken back home, I always tell people if they can take back a little more than an empty pack of popcorn, that`s interesting...that`s an added advantage to an entertaining film."

Shah Rukh, who plays a Muslim Indian with Asperger`s syndrome living in the US, finding his marriage to a Hindu single mother (played by Kajol) crumbling post-9/11, wouldn`t agree that it`s the Islam angle that is grabbing the most attention in the US.

"A film normally deals with lots of issues, comedy, or it`s a tragedy or a serious film or a dramatic love story like `...Khan` is meant to be," he said. "If one starts talking or deciding on issues before a whole film is seen, it`s kinda not right to do, specially as a filmmaker.

"Normally, a film is more than the sum of its parts. It`s not like it`s a love story, it`s got a Karan Johar touch to social cinema, it has an angle of religion, it also has a part of politics, it has a world-shaking incident as a backdrop, it also has a lot of sweet songs. It combines all that.

"To me as a filmmaker, or part of a film, any aspect of the film can only be decided once one has seen the whole film. But there`s no denying that there is an aspect of religion in the film."

Nor would Shah Rukh look at this and other recent Bollywood films about the fate of Indian Muslims in the US post-9/11 as an effort to redress any negative images people may have formed about Islam over the last nine years.

"Films normally are for entertainment. One doesn`t really make a conscious decision to make a statement with it. Within entertainment, if a statement gets made, it`s really nice for a filmmaker.

"You know, maybe `3 Idiots` talks about education, but it`s an entertaining film. Similarly `Chak De! India` talks about patriotism, but it`s a sports film.

"You can have issues related in a film, but when filmmakers of commercial proportions like Karan, myself and Kajol and all get together, it`s not to highlight an issue because it`s too expensive as a commercial venture to make a film about an issue and not entertain."

To Shah Rukh, "the most interesting part of the fact as an actor is that I`m playing a character who`s got Asperger`s. It`s also not in any which way to show it in a light which is not nice...but for an actor that`s a great thing to do, you know, to play a (person with a) disorder like this which very few people know about."

"Hopefully, I`ll be able to convince people about it when they see (the film). I don`t think at least commercial filmmakers from India really make a big-time film which is localised or even localised by an international issue," he said.

"Commercial we will only know once the film releases," said Shah Rukh when asked if MNIK isn`t one of Karan Johar`s least commercial offerings so far.

"...Yes, the only thing it has amiss is big set dance pieces, but we just felt with the disorder we were dealing with, it would look very unrealistic for the character Rizwan Khan to indulge in dancing of the order of we normally see in a Hindi film of Karan`s, or you might have seen earlier.

"Except for that, I think the venture is extremely commercial," he said.

"In the last five years, there`s a whole paradigm shift as to what people accept as a commercial film," Shah Rukh said describing it as "Karan`s evolution from making and keeping up with the trends of new commercial cinema in India and elsewhere".

On professional challenges he faced during its filming, Shah Rukh said it was a "very difficult" character to play. "If I was to just put it simply, it`s very seldom that I`ve really gone ahead and played a character which exists in real life.

"And whenever you`re dealing with a disorder or a near...atypical situation, the first thought is that the sort of parameters you have to set that in no which way you are derogatory or deriding the disorder.

"You have to make the protagonist very proud of what it is. The second part is you have to come as close to reality in depicting that characterisation and so one had to study a lot and one does get worried..."

But a couple of people affected with the same disorder who were shown the film had told them "...it`s a great portrayal, it`s very close to someone with this kind of disorder".

"Of course, having said that, I have taken a few cinematic liberties with it, because I`ve used three or four traits which may not exist simultaneously in one person and tried to create one character who has Asperger`s, called Rizwan Khan."

Del.Icio.Us Tags: Entertainment ShahRukhKhan

Technorati Tags: Entertainment ShahRukhKhan

Emma Watson is the highest paid female star in Hollywood in 2009

‘Harry Potter’ star Emma Watson was the highest paid female star in Hollywood in 2009.

The ‘Hollywood’s top 40’ earners list compiled by Vanity Fair magazine has the beauty, who earned 20 million pounds, at the top among the women.

According to the magazine, she was paid 10 million pounds each for the final two parts of series, `Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.’

The 19-year-old is also the also the youngest actress on the list, reports a news daily.

Meanwhile, Watson’s Harry Potter co-star Daniel Radcliffe was placed sixth in with an income of 25.6 million pounds.

‘Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen’ director Michael Bay earned the highest in Hollywood 125 million US dollars.

Del.Icio.Us Tags: EmmaWatson paid

Technorati Tags: EmmaWatson paid

Hollywood actress Milla Jovovich together with John Abraham

John Abraham’s sculpted physique and Greek-god like looks has not just swept Indian beauties off their feet, it has also floored international hotties. Believe it or not, but acclaimed Hollywood actress Milla Jovovich , who is one of John’s many fans, requested filmmaker Deepa Mehta to cast the hunk opposite her in her next film ‘Beeba Boyz’.

Buzz has it that Mehta had signed Milla in April 2010 for Beeba Boyz, a film on Punjabi gangsters. When Milla came onboard she expressed her desire to work with John, so Deepa decided to cast him. However with John’s jam packed schedule, Deepa could not get immediate time from the actor. But instead of hunting for another male lead Deepa decided to John’s dates. So now the director will first complete ‘Midnight’s Children’ and then return to ‘Beeba Boyz’.

Speaking about John, Deepa said, “John was always my first choice for the part. Ever since we did Water, we’ve been waiting to work together again. Beeba Boyz is perfect for John. I need someone who will look menacing but attractive, sexy and earthy, speaking those Punjabi lines fluently.”

As for Milla’s admiration of John, Deepa said, “Milla asked about John the minute I offered her my film. I think she had seen John’s film and loved him in it.”

Confirming his involvement in the project, John said, “Yes, Deepa and I have met about the project with Milla. I’m doing it. We’ve sorted out the dates issues. I’m really fond of Deepa. I think we did something special in `Water`. We’ll do it again.”

Del.Icio.Us Tags: Hollywood JohnAbraham

Technorati Tags: Hollywood JohnAbraham

Shah Rukh Khan is hoping Shiv Sena ire against him

In the eye of a storm over his criticism of exclusion of Pakistani cricketers from a major tournament, Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan is hoping Shiv Sena ire against him would not be visited on his new film.

"If there is an issue with me you have to sort it out with me and talk to me about my ideology," he told reporters from New York where he was to promote his new film `My Name Is Khan`.

"As far as the film is concerned, that is an incidental thing. According to me, that`s not something they should take their ire against and hopefully they won`t and nobody will and it will release and, inshallah, people will like it," he said.

"I have nothing to respond," said Shah Rukh when asked about Shiv Sena`s threat to disrupt the screening of the film if he did not apologise for speaking against the exclusion of Pakistani cricketers from the Indian Premier League (IPL).

"I don`t even understand what `My Name Is Khan` has got to do with what I say," he said.

"You know `My Name Is Khan` is not only my film. It has got Kajol and Karan (Johar) and hundred and fifty other people whose livelihood depends on that."

"And if there is an issue with me you have to sort it out with me and talk to me about my ideology," said Shah Rukh, who owns the Kolkata Knight Riders team, while sticking to his guns on the issue.

"I have no take on anybody`s statement" he said referring to Shiv Sena leaders` criticism of his views. "I can only do a take on my statement. And what I say and what everyone believes in... what I say that we are Indians and we should have everyone like to live freely and happily and be good."

"And so there is nothing new, we learnt it in class three civics books till I finished my masters that this is what I was taught by my parents and my mom."

"And I don`t know what the issue is really. I mean what is wrong in saying what I say that everyone is welcome to my country and I welcome them with open arms, whether it`s art, culture, sport, politics... you know, whatever."

"Everyone has got the right to do what they wish to do in our country. That`s why it`s the biggest democracy apparently," Shah Rukh said.

Technorati Tags: ShahRukhKhan ire

Del.Icio.Us Tags: ShahRukhKhan ire

Manish Malhotra doesn’t meet up to Priyanka Chopra's high fashion standards

Priyanka Chopra is quite a ‘fashionista’! The stunner, who can be seen flaunting sexy outfits and designer gears in most of her films off late, has become very picky about how she is portrayed and styled onscreen. So much so is Piggy Chops fixated with her glamourous image that now even a ace designer like Manish Malhotra doesn’t meet up to her high fashion standards.

Buzz has it that Priyanka, who is being styled by Malhotra in her forthcoming film ‘Anjana Anjani’, is at constant loggerheads with the styling team. Be it her costume designs or their colours, the stunner is constantly complaining.

Confirming the news a source told a daily, “Manish Malhotra is styling Priyanka, who is shooting for ‘Anjaana Anjaani’ in the US. She has an extremely glam look in the film. While Priyanka likes the look Manish has given her, she has a lot of issues with the assistant stylist assigned to her by Manish. Priyanka isn’t happy at all with what the assistant stylist. She is finding the combination of colors and clothes given by this stylist very jarring.”

And even though Manish tried to explain to the dainty lass that the assistant was just carrying out his orders, Priyanka is still to be pacified. “It is practically impossible for Manish to reach every location. He has explained to Priyanka and has spoken to the assistant too. But each day passing day is proving more and more difficult for the stylist, because Priyanka seems to have an issue with everything she is giving her to wear,”adds the source.

Well, looks like ‘Fashion’ has left a deep impact on Priyanka!

Del.Icio.Us Tags: ManishMalhotra fashion

Technorati Tags: ManishMalhotra fashion