Curiosity over the Neha Dhupia and Ritwik Bhattacharya bond is peaking

Is it flourishing or has it hit Splitsville? Curiosity over the Neha Dhupia and Ritwik Bhattacharya bond is peaking… after Dhupia, the only B Town actress to have attended the prickly Sania Mirza and Shoaib Malik wedding, made a late entry minus her sportsman beau.

Dhupia, who will be spotted in Vipul Shah’s ’Action Replayy’, did show up with Ritwik in tow for event promotions and screenings as he’s an avid cinegoer too. Though, she turned charmingly evasive when it came to to talk regards matrimony.

A close source, however, has a different tale to tell, stating, "Neha has not split with Ritwik, and she has always been very open about it. Why would she keep anything under the wraps?"

Actor Salman Khan's generosity tales continue to enthrall his fans

Salman Khan’s generosity tales continue to enthrall his fans. Case in point: the actor’s recent act of benevolence at Wai, whilst shooting for ’Dabbang’.

During the filming, thronging hordes of fans would show up to have a dekko at the star, including a sizeable percentage of aged men and women. Khan interacted with many of them politely and often invited them over for lunch too. During his talks with them, he realized that most of them were ailing from poor vision or sore eyes.

Pronto… the star swung into action, had a Mumbai eye specialist summoned to Wai and conducted an eye camp on the sets!

Since a large number of them were ridden with cataract problems, Salman had them operated upon at Pune and also arranged for their post operative care.

Says a close source, "When first checked it was found that 26 aged people were suffering from cataract problems. Salman accompanied them to Pune for their surgeries. The following week he took another 22 old folks to Pune and had their cataract surgeries performed too."

Super star. Superb heart.

Nandita Das has moved to Mumbai after living in the national capital for years

"What difference does it make whether you call it Bombay or Mumbai?" asks actress-filmmaker Nandita Das, who has moved to Mumbai after living in the national capital for years.

The main reason she shifted base this year, she says, is for the sake of her love - husband Subodh Maskara.

"I never wanted to shift to Mumbai, but as they say `never say never` and I shifted for the right reason. I didn`t shift for my acting or direction, but because I fell in love and you are where your heart is," Nandita, who is visibly in the family way, told reporters.

The multi-lingual actress, who also made her mark as a director with "Firaaq", says she would love to learn Marathi.

"I have no resistance to learning Marathi. I have done a Marathi film too," said Nandita, who was here to deliver the Silver Jubilee lecture at Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU).

The actress spoke on "Identity and the notion of the `Other`".

"What difference does it make whether you call it Bombay or Mumbai? I still call it Bombay and in Hindi we still call it Bambai. I recollect that Karan Johar even had to apologise for using Bombay in `My Name Is Khan`.

"Cosmopolitan multi-lingual people have contributed to Bombay, coming from all different parts. Everybody is as much a Mumbaikar as Maharashtrians are," she said.

Nandita Das says her statement is not directed against anyone and says she is against people who say Mumbai "belongs to a certain community. I am completely against this kind of divisive politics".

Asked if she wasn`t afraid talking so candidly, she said: "If we continue being afraid of anything, that`s how they are gaining momentum. They are playing on our fears. Like for `My Name Is Khan`... it was just the people of Bombay who went and saw the film. We just have to outnumber them."

The sequel to ‘Dhamaal’ is no longer an all boys affair

Do you remember ‘Dhamaal’, one of the biggest Box Office comedy capers of the year 2007, which starred Sanjay Dutt, Ritesh Deshmukh, Arshad Warsi, Ashish Chowdhary and Javed Jaffery?

Well, news has it that the sequel to ‘Dhamaal’ is no longer an all boys affair, for ‘Dhamaal 2’ includes two actresses.

Early this year, when director Indra Kumar and producer Ashok Thakeria announced the sequel to ‘Dhamaal’, it was declared that ‘Dhamaal 2’ wouldn’t have any female stars. However, just three months before ‘Dhamaal 2’ hits the floor, the filmmakers have changed their mind and have added two actresses.

Talking to a news daily, producer Ashok Thakeria said, “We’d never made a policy decision not to have girls in ‘Dhamaal.’ It just so happened that the film had no women characters. For the sequel too, we initially thought we would carry forward the same trend. However, as the script developed, there was room for the girls too. So we have added roles for two heroines.”

It is believed that Sanjay Dutt and Arshad Warsi were keen to have females in the film. Bipasha Basu and Sameera Reddy might be the female leads in ‘Dhamaal 2.’

The 1970s glamorous actresses were the toast of Hindi cinema

Fame is fickle. Sadhana, Nanda and Nimmi, who were the toast of Hindi cinema, are long forgotten now and lead secluded lives in a city that once worshipped them. Others like Parveen Babi, Nadira and Suraiya died lonely and unloved.

Parveen was considered one of the most glamorous actresses in the 1970s and was often seen playing modern, unconventional women in films like "Deewaar", "Amar Akbar Anthony", "Shaan" and "Kaalia".

The actress had much talked about affairs with Kabir Bedi and Mahesh Bhatt but never married. She was said to be suffering from a delusional disorder and in her last days, addiction to drugs and alcohol left her to lead a secluded life. She was found dead in her apartment in 2005 due to complications from diabetes.

Something similar happened to Nadira. Often cast as a vamp, she made her name with "Shree 420" and "Dil Apna Aur Preet Parai". She even won the best supporting actress Filmfare Award for portraying the dilemma of a mother whose daughter gets pregnant out of wedlock in "Julie".

Though Nadira was a successful actress, her personal life was not so happy. She was married twice. Her first marriage to Urdu poet and filmmaker Naqshab ended unhappily. She then tied the knot with a man who turned out to be a gold-digger. After that, Nadira chose to live alone and breathed her last in February 2006 at the age of 73 following a prolonged illness.

Legendary singer-actress Suraiya, who ruled the screen in the 1940s and 1950s with hits like "Pyar Ki Jeet" and "Dillagi", was another actress who chose to walk into loneliness after being in the limelight for years.

Many say she never got over her broken relationship with Dev Anand. The actress owned an apartment on Marine Drive, one of the most posh locations in Mumbai, and lived there all on her own until her death in 2004 at the age of 75.

Another yesteryear actress who remains single is Asha Parekh. Legendary director Bimal Roy`s discovery, she entered the movies as a child artist with "Aaasmaan" in 1952.

Seven years later she turned into a full-fledged heroine with "Dil Deke Dekho". After that there was no looking back for Asha who was an excellent dancer. Some of her hits include "Jab Pyar Kissise Hota Hai", "Love in Tokyo", "Do Badan" and "Teesri Manzil".

There were rumours at that time that she fell in love with director Nasir Hussain, but Asha never commented on that.

Once asked if she misses a family, she said: "I don`t think so. There was a time when I did want to get married. I used to love children, I still love children. But now I feel that I am happy I am not married and don`t have kids because I don`t think I would have been able to cope up with them."

Asha now has a small but faithful group of friends that includes Waheeda Rehman, Vyjayanthimala, Nanda, Sadhana and Shammy. They keep meeting whenever they get time.

Her colleague Nanda recently made a rare public appearance in Mumbai at the screening of Ravi Jadhav`s Marathi film "Natrang".

Known for her roles in films like in "Hum Dono", "Kanoon", "Jab Jab Phool Khile" and "Gumnam", Nanda has avoided public life ever since her fiance, director Manmohan Desai, committed suicide in 1994. They had got engaged in 1992.

Nimmi, a prominent heroine of the 1950s who rose to fame with films like "Barsaat" and "Aan", is hardly seen. The actress married screenwriter S. Ali Raza, who died in 2007 following a heart attack. She now lives alone in her Juhu apartment in Mumbai.

Even Sadhana decided to retire from acting, saying she wanted her fans to remember her as a young, beautiful leading lady. The 1974 movie "Geeta Mera Naam" was her last outing as an actress and after that she was never seen in any public event.

Legendary Bengali actress Suchitra Sen has become such a recluse that she even refused to step out of her solitary confinement to accept the Dada Saheb Phalke Award.

The ever-so gracious Rekha too has been living alone with her secretary Farzana in her Bandra home for years. Known for her roles in films like "Khubsoorat", "Silsila", and "Umrao Jaan", Rekha was linked to her co-stars Navin Nischol, Vinod Mehra and Amitabh Bachchan.

In 1990, the actress surprised everyone by marrying Delhi-based businessman Mukesh Aggarwal, but he committed suicide a year later. She still has an active film career and is often seen at functions and events.

She once said, "Well loneliness is still a part of me, but being alone is not necessarily being lonely."

Actress Minissha Lamba is keen on doing a period drama

Bollywood actress Minissha Lamba, who has donned both glamorous and non-glamorous roles, said that she is keen on doing a period drama like `Jodhaa Akbar`.

"I do not have any particular genre that I would like to do. I just want to entertain people. But I want to do a period drama like Jodhaa Akbar. I loved the film and wished I was a part of it," the 25-year-old actress told reporters adding she is interested in history than anything else.

Minissha started her journey as an actor from the critically acclaimed film, `Yahaan`, alongside Jimmy Shergill in 2005. She was later seen in `Corporate`, `Bachna Ae Haseeno` and with her ultra-glamorous look in `Kidnap`.

"It has been a great journey. There were disappointments and happier times as well. These things are part and parcel of every industry...and of everyone`s life. I am grateful for where I am today. There is a lot more that I need to do," she said.

When asked how the industry reacts to new comers like her and who do not have a filmi background, the actress said, "I did not face any problem. I think the industry is warm and encourages new comers."

"If you have a filmi background people know you better...your network is good. But the industry recognises talent and appreciate it, be it for a filmi or non-filmi actor," the actress said.

Minissha, who is currently shooting for `Hum Tum Aur Shabana` by Sagar Bellary of `Bheja Fry` fame, said 2010 is her year of comedy.

"My both the films of 2010 are a kind of comedy. `Well Done Abba` was a political satire and `Hum Tum Aur Shabana` is an out-and-out comedy," she added.

Director Karan Johar scariest movie he has ever watched

Bollywood director Karan Johar hit out at filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma here Wednesday, expressing hope that the latter`s third instalment in the scary franchise `Phoonk` is never made.

"I have heard that Ram Gopal Varma has said that the scariest movie he has ever watched is (my) `Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna`...

I haven`t watched `Phoonk` and `Phoonk 2` but I hope `Phoonk 3` is never made," Johar told reporters in his signature tongue-and-cheek fashion.

Salman Khan is quick to say ‘no’ to play a chocolate boy

He might be performing some kick-ass action stunts and giving actors half his age a run for their money but ask Salman Khan to play a chocolate boy and the actor is quick to say ‘no’.

While his peers like Aamir Khan and Shah Rukh Khan are still playing collage boy roles, Sallu is in mood to follow their footsteps as he has decided to do roles that match his age and justify his form. And not only this, the macho Khan even suggests that younger heroes should play such roles.

Believe it or not, but the superstar was recently approached by Ahmed Khan’s assistant Abhishek Dogra for a film. But since he felt that he was way too old to play the role offered he decided to step back.

Confirming the news a source said, “Abhishek met Salman at his residence at Galaxy Apartments, Bandra to narrate the story of his film. The meeting lasted for an hour-and-half. After Abhishek finished his narration, Salman said he wouldn’t do his film and suggested that he cast a younger actor instead.”

Talking about his meeting with Salman, Abhishek said, “I’m earnestly looking forward to work with Salman one day. But I must say I don’t know how to thank him enough for his extremely valuable input to my script.”

Well, for this one we can just say - ‘honest Salman’!

Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone handled their break-up very maturely

Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone, who were once the hottest couple in the B-town, handled their break-up very maturely. They did not play blame-games or called up a press-conference relating their side of the story or wrote a memoir, instead, they just kept quiet and let it pass.

However, here is a chance for the viewers to know what they went through as the ex-lovers are set to portray their painful experience onscreen in their respective films.

According to our sources, Deepika is doing a film called ‘Break Ke Baad’ alongside Imran Khan while her ex-beau Ranbir Kapoor is currently working on Imtiaz Ali`s next titled ‘Rockstar’, which is based on heart break.

Reports say that Deepika’s ‘Break Ke Baad’ deals with a couple, desperately trying to make their relationship work. On the other hand, Ranbir’s ‘Rockstar’ is about a young man dumped by his girlfriend for being too ambitious. The story shows how the young man copes up with his heart break, although being in the media glare worsens things for him.

It is strange how sometimes life and work get mixed-up and lead you to same kind of experiences.

Shilpa Shetty still manages to maintain her energy and cool

The svelte beauty Shilpa Shetty’s IPL team might not be doing that great but she still manages to maintain her energy and cool.

She had given her best in films and then the transition to Business happened. Her approach towards work is to give her best shot.

Life post marriage has definitely changed for her. She has learnt from her mom how to achieve balance between work and home and she is trying to achieve the same.

Shah Rukh Khan’s MNIK has been the No. 1 grosser in the UK

Shah Rukh Khan’s MNIK has been the No. 1 grosser in the UK. Karan Johar and Fox Studios are planning to release a re-edited version of the film in 25 countries with SRK dubbing his lines in English.

Karan Johar said that it’s very pleasing to hear positive feedback about the movie from across the world. He also feels lucky to have made such a memorable film with Shah Rukh Khan.

The Hindi films releasing Friday have a common thread

`Apartment`, `City of Gold`, `Bird Idol`, `Kuchh Kariye` and `Muskurake Dekh Zara` - all the Hindi films releasing Friday have a common thread. All of them have Mumbai as the backdrop for themes varying from the space crunch in the city to organised crime and even an animation flick.

In `Apartment`, director Jagmohan Mundhra portrays a "contemporary story, set in today`s Mumbai" where people share room with complete strangers "because of the space crunch and the steep real estate prices". The movie stars Rohit Roy, Tanushree Dutta and Neetu Chandra.

`City of Gold` is a no-holds-barred look at the birth of the city`s underbelly and organised crime. Director Mahesh Manjrekar, who also plays an important role in the film, highlights the plight of Mumbai mill workers who sacrificed a lot so that the 21st Century Mumbai of swanky malls and glittering multiplexes could be built.

`Bird Idol`, on the other hand, is an animated laugh-riot where the birds of Mumbai are as human as the people who inhabit it. Director Jyotin Goel, who made Sanjay Dutt-starrer `Safari`, narrates how birds go to school, watch TV, go out on dates and enjoy reality shows, especially a musical show known for making overnight stars.

`Bird Idol` has voice-overs by Juhi Chawla, Shaan and Kailash Kher.

`Kuchh Kariye`, produced and directed by Jagbir Dahiya, deals with the current socio-political scenario. It`s the journey of a man meeting his destiny and coming to terms with himself in Mumbai, after he is forced to leave his hometown. The film also marks the debut of singer Sukhwinder Singh as an actor.

It also stars Vikrum Kumar, Rufi Khan, Shriya, Surendra Pal and Mukesh Tiwari.

`Muskurake Dekh Zara` is the story of a young man who drives from his hometown to Mumbai after an embarrassing incident. And he finds love in the city. A story of emotions and disappointments in love and life, the movie is about winning back one`s zeal with an upright attitude and ability to put people in their place after moving away from home.

`Muskurake Dekh Zara` is produced and directed by Som Shekhar, who has been an executive producer of movies like `Rangeela`, `Satya` and `Company`. The film is the launch pad of debutants Gashmeer Mahajani and Twinkle Patel.

As far as the casting goes, Friday seems to be missing out on films with big stars. What is to be seen is if the five movies manage to set the ticket windows buzzing.

Actor Riteish Deshmukh feels the richer content of Marathi films

Bollywood actor Riteish Deshmukh feels the richer content of Marathi films enables them score over Hindi movies.

"Just watched two Marathi movies back to back - both of them were very good. `Jogwa` is simply outstanding, Rajeev Patil (director) is simply superb. Upendra Limaye and Mukta Barve, the lead actors are unbelievable," Riteish posted on his Twitter page.

"Marathi films with much lesser budgets are richer in content than Hindi films. Maybe the regional audiences are more receptive towards bolder subjects," he added.

Riteish has earned a name for himself in the Hindi film industry with projects like `Bluffmaster`, `Heyy Babby`, `Do Knot Disturb` and `Rann` among others.

He is yet to do a Marathi project.

Udaan is the only Indian movie to be screened at the Cannes Film Festival

Vikramaditya Motwane`s directorial debut "Udaan", featuring popular TV actors Ronit Roy and Ram Kapoor, is the only Indian movie to be screened at the 63rd Cannes Film Festival being held May 12-23.

Set in Jamshedpur, Bihar, "Udaan", about a father and son, will be screened in the Un Certain Regard Section of the festival.

Motwane was the co-writer of "Dev D" and worked as Sanjay Leela Bhansali`s assistant.

"Udaan" has been produced by Anurag Kashyap and Sanjay Singh.

Ram Gopal Varma threw a challenge watch Phoonk 2 to get Rs.500,000

Director Ram Gopal Varma has claimed that `Phoonk 2` is scarier than his earlier venture `Phoonk`. He threw a challenge that anyone who could watch the film without getting scared would win Rs.500,000 - and none of the contestants could sit with a steady heart through the horror flick.

Among the five bravehearts shortlisted from different parts of India, Hitesh Sharma from Mumbai got the opportunity to finally take the hot seat.

`The bottom line is the challenger has lost and we won. I am very happy,` Varma told reporters at FAME cinema where Hitesh was shown the film alone and his heart beat was monitored with an ECG machine.

There were screens outside the hall to monitor his heartbeats and facial expression. After watching the film for 45 minutes, Hitesh took away his face from the screen and waved saying he couldn`t take the scares anymore.

Coming out of the hall, Hitesh admitted, `There were many scenes, which were really scary but I was controlling myself. Then came a scene which I couldn`t bear any more, so I gave up.`

Directed by debutant Milind Gadagkar, `Phoonk 2`, releasing Friday, is a sequel to `Phoonk` which was directed by Ram Gopal Varma.

Actor Darsheel Safary will take up acting as a career

Darsheel Safary, who impressed both critics and the audiences alike by playing a dyslexic child in "Taare Zameen Par", says he isn`t sure whether he will take up acting as a career.

"I don`t know whether I will be an actor or not, but I want to make a different identity for myself," Darsheel told reporters.

Asked how different was it shooting for "Bumm Bumm Bole" to "Taare Zameen Par", the 13-year-old said: "It (`Bumm Bumm Bole`) was very fast and very quick. He (Priyadarshan) used to explain everything very fast and the sets were all ready."

Releasing May 7, "Bumm Bumm Bole" is a poignant story of two siblings, their dilemmas and how they fight their way to overcome them.

He will also be seen in Walt Disney`s "Zokkomon" as a superhero. Debutant Satyajit Bhatkal has directed the film. "I have completed shooting `Zokkomon`, it was real fun."

Darsheel doesn`t let his studies take a back seat. "I do all the shootings during my vacations and sometime in the weekends."

Saif Ali Khan and Bipasha Basu selected as brand ambassadors

It was an unSaif rumour. Or so, assert the duo. Though, Saif Ali Khan and Bipasha Basu were allegedly reported to being thick in the midst of a romantic link during the filming of ’Race’.

Bips was reportedly disheartened when she learnt that she was chucked aside in favour of the Junior Nawab’s current love interest Kareena Kapoor for Abbas Mustan’s ’Race 2’.

The saucy two, though, will join forces… as they’ve both been selected as brand ambassadors for a leading handset brand.

Reportedly, their sizzling cine chemistry was the decisive factor in the brand roping in the hot(tt) stars. What’s next? A hotline for the hotties… perhaps?

Milind Soman performs most of the action sequences by himself

Akshay Kumar and Aamir Khan often cast aside body doubles and insist on doing their eye popping stunts themselves. Another addition to this brave club: Milind Soman.

Actor Milind soman plays a cop in an action thriller ’27-13.20 Nakshatra’, Milind performs most of the action sequences by himself without the aid of any body double.

In spite of having met with an accident recently on the sets of the same film, wherein he injured his thigh, Milind yet continues to enjoy the thrill of performing the dare-devil acts himself.

A sports enthusiast and a fitness freak, Milind is gearing up to be the next action hero.

Lahore has been sought by US studio Hollywood Gang for a remake

Sanjay Puran Singh Chauhan’s debut Lahore has been sought by US studio Hollywood Gang for a remake and the director says he is "not surprised" considering the global appeal of the film.

"Lahore is an international subject with a global appeal and has been made keeping the western sensibilities in mind just like in Hollywood. So I am not surprised when they [Hollywood Gang] approached us," an elated Chauhan said.

"Scott Carr, the director of development of Hollywood Gang mailed Sai Om Films [producer], the rights holder of Lahore, about a week ago that they were noticing our film since long and they wanted to purchase the rights of the same," he said.

"The Intellectual Property Rights of the film are mine and I said yes on condition that they don’t tinker with the story except for any surface changes... the core story should be the same. It is very important for us that the structure of the film is kept the same in the remake," he explained.

Hollywood Gang has to its credit movies like 300, Everybody’s Fine and upcoming films Xerxes (2011), Immortals (2011) and a remake of Excalibur (2012).

Asked if he would be wielding the megaphone for the Hollywood version too, Chauhan said: "I am open to direct it and [will be ok] even if anyone else does it."

"However the director, cast, etc. is yet to be decided as right now everything is just at the preliminary stage. The contract is going to be signed soon," he added.

Released in India on March 17, Lahore is now going for a phased release in the US and Canada followed by Europe and East Asia.

Set against the backdrop of competitive sports (kick-boxing) in the international arena, it already has a multiple international connect with the likes of Rob Miller as sports consultant who also worked on Chak De! India, Tony Leung as action director, Wayne Sharpe as background music composer and Avatar vocalist Lisbeth Scott as singer.

Lahore stars Nafisa Ali, Farouque Shaikh, Ashish Vidyarthi, late Nirmal Pandey, Sabyasachi Chakraborty, Saurabh Shukla, Sushant Singh, Kelly Dorji, Shraddha Das, Shraddha Nigam and Mukesh Rishi. Actor Aanaahad made his debut with the film.

Distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures India, it has also won an international award - the jury award for the Best Feature Film at the 42nd WorldFest International Film Festival, Houston, Texas, where the world premiere was held on April 20 last year.

Lavish preparations have been done for newly wed Sania Mirza

Lavish preparations have been done for newly wed Sania Mirza’s elaborate ‘mehendi’ ceremony.

The blushing bride Sania Mirza is looking forward to the ceremony, which is an intrinsic ritual of a Muslim wedding.

Sania Mirza and Shoaib Malik entered matrimony at a much-hyped ‘nikah’ ceremony yesterday at the Taj Krishna hotel in Hyderabad.

Sania’s spokesperson Richa Naik informed the media outside the Taj Krishna. “Please pray for the couple’s happiness. There is also a mehendi ceremony on Tuesday and sangeet on Wednesday”, she added.

Ironically, the couple made the solemn oath at the same hotel where Sania had got engaged to her childhood friend Sohrab Mirza on July 10 last year amid much fanfare. The tennis ace had called off the engagement on January 28 this year citing `incompatibility`.

At the wedding, Sania was wearing the same red saree, which her mother had worn at her own Nikah 25 years ago. On the other hand, Shoaib was seen wearing a black sherwani designed by renowned designer duo Shantanu and Nikhil.

Earlier, Kazi Ahmetullah Pasha had said that the Nikah would take place on Friday, April 9, at 6:30 pm in the evening. However, the marriage could not be performed as Shoaib reportedly could not submit necessary documents like passport and clearances with regard to closing of the criminal case filed against him.

However, things apparently sorted out when Shoaib Malik gave divorce to Ayesha Siddiqui after initially refuting claims that the two had got married.

Rani Mukerji is not getting along well with Sanjay Leela Bhansali

Rani Mukerji has refuted the reports that said that she is not getting along well with Sanjay Leela Bhansali. It was said that Rani was hurt because Sanjay had apparently chosen Aishwarya Rai-Bachchan over her for ‘Guzaarish’. However, Rani said to a news daily that the reports are just rumours and she has nothing against her friend Sanjay.

“Many things have been written about a discord between Sanjay and me. I can tell you one thing that if he calls me today to do a movie, I will do it immediately. That’s how much I trust and respect Sanjay and his vision. If I was fighting, would I be in a position to say all this?” Rani stated.

Rani added, “Sanjay is someone who trusted me with roles and I hope I have lived up to his expectations. He and I understand each other very well and I think it’s a matter of time when we will do something together. We just have to wait for Sanjay to think what he would want me to play.”

Talking about the number game and comparisons, She said, “No one remembers now if Nutan or Nargis was number one. No one asks if Rekha or Jaya Bachchan was number one. They simply love their movies because they feel they were the best actors who gave people some memorable movies.”

She ends saying, “All these comparisons and the number game is fine with me. I always chose quality over quantity. I know that 20 years down the line I will still be considered as one of the best actors ever produced by Bollywood.”

Wow, that’s some confidence Rani!

Deepika Padukone is working really hard her B-town innings

Post her unceremonious break-up with Ranbir Kapoor, Deepika Padukone is working really hard and is fully absorbed in her B-town innings. With almost half a dozen films in her kitty, Deepika is leaving no stone unturned to make a deep impact at the Box Office.

Recently, while talking to a news daily on her upcoming releases, a confident Deepika said, "See, if I am good at what I do, everything will fall in place. If I am honest to my profession, I will get all the right films, endorsements, and fan following and of course money."

It seems Deepika has learnt the lesson hard way, for the long legged beauty has always faced personal loss and professional criticism sportingly. However, the actress does not want to be a part of ‘number one star’ race as she quips, "Really, I don`t intend to get into the number business since my work should speak for itself. Having said, personally speaking, the best sense of achievement that I get is when my work is appreciated. I am making the best choices from the work coming my way and my instinct says that they should only consolidate my career further."

Deepika will soon be seen in ‘Housefull’, ‘Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Se’, Break Ke Baad’ and ‘Lafange Parinde.’

Priyadarshan unveiled the first look of Bumm Bumm Bole in Mumbai

Priyadarshan is famous with the stories,which surly tickle your funny bones but this time this ace director has come up with a children oriented film,called Bumm Bumm Bole.

The star cast of the movie unveiled its first look in Mumbai recently with child actors Darsheel Safary and Ziyah Vastani.

`Bumm Bumm Bole` is an innocent and poignant story of two siblings and the dilemmas they face in life and how they fight their way to overcome it.

Freida Pinto is flattered by rumours linking her to a role in 007 movie

`Slumdog Millionaire` star Freida Pinto is "flattered" by rumours linking her to a role in the new 007 movie but insists that she is not "beautiful" enough to play a Bond girl.

"It was very flattering. I don`t know if I would have done it. I am too young to be a Bond girl and you need someone more mature and beautiful than me," starpulse.com quoted Frieda as saying.

Frieda was recently reported to have signed up to play Daniel Craig`s love interest in the next James Bond blockbuster, which will be directed by Sam Mendes.

A representative for the actress dismissed the rumours, confirming that Pinto has "not been approached" by Bond bosses.

Sri Lankan beauty Jacqueline Fernandez got her true taste of Bollywood

Sri Lankan beauty Jacqueline Fernandez, who started in the Hindi film industry with `Aladin`, got her true taste of Bollywood while shooting for `Jaane Kahan Se Aayi Hai` where she had to imitate screen icons like Amitabh Bachchan and Dharmendra.

Till about a few months back, the only Bollywood personality that Jacqueline knew was Big B, Riteish Deshmukh and Sanjay Dutt, her co-stars in `Aladin`.

However, it took a `Jaane Kahan Se Aayi Hai` to make her aware about other major film personalities like Dharmendra, Mithun Chakravorty, Sunny Deol and Ajay Devgn amongst others.

"Who doesn`t know Amitabh Bachchan? After all he is an icon all over, including Sri Lanka. However, even after stepping into the world of Hindi films, I wasn`t really too aware about her other screen personalities. I am sure not many would mind though, I am still learning," she told reporters.

But she had her share of Bollywood celebrities while on the sets of `Jaane Kahan Se Aayi Hai`. In the film, where she plays a woman from planet Venus, Jacqueline is required to be a part of a hilarious sequence where she puts on TV and finds various actors staring from the screen channel after channel.

"Yes, this is a hilarious sequence where Jackie, who has just landed from Venus, gets her first taste of Bollywood medicine," said Milap Zaveri, the writer-director of the film.

"As she starts flipping channels, she comes across Himesh Reshammiya, Sunny Deol, Dharmendra, Mithun Chakravorty, Ajay
Devgn, Sridevi and Amitabh Bachchan. She is quite amazed on seeing their on screen antics and starts copying their trademark dance steps, dialogue delivery and kicks & punches,"
he added.

So what Jackie gets to see is Himesh Reshammiya coming up with a nasal rendition, Sunny Deol getting into the `Yaara O Yaara` (Jeet) jig all the way, Sridevi coming up with her historic `Nagina` act, Dharmendra with his `jat yamla` persona, Mithun`s disco-dancer act and last but not the least, Bachchan`s `Tiger` roar from `Hum`.

"Milap made me shoot this sequence on the first day of my shoot. I was so nervous. Here I was working in a comedy film with a new director and had to basically mimic these actors.

Worse, I had no clue who they were. I asked Milap and he told me that all of them were screen legends in their own rights,"
remembers Jacqueline.

After the failure of `Aladin`, Jacqueline has pinned her hopes on `Jaane Kahan Se Aayi Hai`, which hit theatres today.

She recently completed a commercial with Sanjay Dutt and Ranbir Kapoor and finished shooting for an item number in `Housefull`.

Saif and Kareena Kapoor scouting around for a suitable film to do together

Ever since their film Agent Vinod got delayed, Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor have been scouting around for a suitable film to do together. Now a major project has fallen into their lap which seems just tailor- made for them.Fox Star Studios has approached the couple to star in a Hindi remake of the Tom Cruise-Cameron Diaz starrer Knight and Day.

The meeting in question happened few days back at a suburban five star hotel. A source reveals, “Saif was keen to do the remake of a Hollywood film for quite some time and was already in talks with the production house.

The production house held a screening of Knight and Day and both Saif and Kareena liked the film because its genre, action-comedy, was just what they were looking for. It’s a fast paced movie with lots of action.” The off-screen couple were last seen on-screen together in Kurbaan.

While Kareena remained unavailable for comment, Saif says,“We meet various people in the office - that’s what a production house does. But Kareena and I have not met Fox Star together for a film.”

But a source close to Fox Star says, “Yes, a meeting was called with Saif and Kareena.”

Talk show queen Oprah Winfrey show debuts in India

Talk show queen Oprah Winfrey is all set to repeat her phenomenal success with a new show that will also take her to India and China.

"Oprah’s Next Chapter" will take Winfrey to India, China and other countries, according to the Oprah Winfrey Network, or OWN, the Los Angeles-based cable TV venture she formed with Discovery Communications Inc, The Telegraph reported.

A network spokesperson said scheduling and details for the new series have not been finalised, but it is likely to be aired two to three times a week. The show debuts in late 2011.

A range of people from celebrities to politicians to newsmakers will be interviewed by Winfrey.

Winfrey announced in November that she would end her popular daytime show which has been running for 25 years because it "feels right".

The show had gone on to become one of TV industry’s biggest money-makers and helped Winfrey turn into a billionaire.

Priyanka Chopra and Akshay Kumar might be seen working together again

Six years after tabloids reported a supposed affair between Priyanka Chopra and Akshay Kumar, the actors might be seen working together again.

The talented duo, who was stated to be dating each other after working together in films like ‘Andaaz’ and ‘Aitraaz’, had sworn not to share screen space again to avoid gossips. But if Khiladi Kumar has his way then he would very much like to romance the dainty lass again on the silver screen.

Speaking about Priyanka, Akshay said, “Priyanka is a very talented actor and we have delivered a number of hits together. The biggest of them were ‘Andaaz’ and ‘Aitraaz’.
Then we also did ‘Waqt’, which was both critically acclaimed and also a Box Office success. Let’s not dwell in the past. We are both professionals. When the right script comes along, I won’t have any qualms in working with her again.”

And now the industry sources state that Priyanka is open to the idea of working with Akshay. In fact, it has even emerged that Priyanka had sent feelers to Farah Khan to be cast opposite Akshay.

But at that time, since Akshay was not so gung ho on the idea, Farah had little choice but to go for a newcomer. Neverthless, it now seems that Farah can go back to her original choice and cast Piggy Chops against Akshay.

Farhan Akhtar seems keen to return behind the camera for `Don 2`

After making a name for himself as an actor with `Rock On` and `Luck By Chance`, Farhan Akhtar seems keen to return behind the camera for `Don 2`.

The director-actor, who was recently seen in psychological thriller `Karthick Calling Karthik` with Deepika Padukone, is currently scouting for location for the movie.


"Hey guys! In Mumbai for a day... Flying away tmrw for 10 more days for `Don2` recce (sic)," Farhan tweeted.

The film will be a sequel to the 2006 movie by Farhan and will star Shah Rukh Khan and Priyanka Chopra in the lead.

The 35-year-old Farhan began his journey in cinema with cult hit `Dil Chahta Hai` in 2001.

Sushmita Sen has taken up the task of selecting the Miss Universe 2010

Former beauty queen-turned actress Sushmita Sen has taken up the task of selecting the Miss Universe 2010 representative from India through the `I AM She` contest and she has tied up with an FM station for it.

Sushmita said that through the contest they would select the next Miss Universe India, who will represent India at the global Miss Universe competition.

`I AM She` will be the preliminary of the Miss Universe contest,` Sushmita told reporters at the 92.7 BIG FM studio here Wednesday.


Talking about her association with BIF FM, she said: `BIG FM is an important partner of `I AM She`. They have the resources to reach across to people.`

Sushmita feels that the `I AM She` winner would be ensured of a better future.

`I believe that the winners of this contest would not only get glamorous prizes but they will also be awarded with scholarships,` said Sushmita.

Sushmita Sen won the Miss Universe crown in 1994.

`It`s (the Miss Universe title) definitely going to come back again. India has the most beautiful women in the world. The fact is we are beautiful inside-out and the whole world agrees to it,` Sushmita said.

Sushmita has bought the franchise for selecting the Miss Universe India, which was earlier with the Times of India Group.

Shah Rukh Khan probably let his tongue run away from him this time

Actor Shah Rukh Khan probably let his tongue run away from him this time. The actor who loves to be in the news, has just ensured that he is back in the spotlight, which where he was during the ’My Name Is Khan’ controversy.

The actor who is the owner of the Kolkata Knight Riders in the ongoing IPL, has just made an outrageous statement which has many up in arms, in protest, of course. The actor has stated that he would dance naked at the D.Y.Patil stadium in Navi Mumbai if Kolkata Knight Riders make it to the final.

Now, while everybody is debating on the kind of trouble this would land the actor into, one wonders, if too much is not being read into the statement. SRK is known for making all kinds of statements and he does not necessarily want to be taken seriously. After all, seeing the kind of form that KK are in, the prospect of SRK dancing naked is not even a distant possibility.

Paathshaala is highlighting macro issues of the education system at large

`Paathshaala` director Milind Ukey is tired of people constantly comparing his film with Aamir Khan`s `Taare Zameen Par` and says he is highlighting macro issues of the `education system at large`.

`People are comparing `Paathshaala` to `Taare Zameen Par`, but when they see the film they will realise both are very different,` Ukey told reporters.

` `Taare Zameen Par` was about one child suffering from dyslexia and my film talks about the education system at large. Our issue and scope are bigger,` he added.

The Shahid Kapoor-starrer, choreographer-director Ahmad Khan`s debut production venture, is primarily about the Indian education system and deals with contemporary and socially relevant issues regarding children.

Ukey worked with child stars like Swini Khare from `Cheeni Kum`, Ali Haji from `Fanaa`, Dwij Yadav from `Nanhe Jaisalmer` and Avika Gor of `Balika Vadhu` fame apart from others.

Talking about his experience of working with children, Ukey said: `Handling almost 100 kids every day was not a cakewalk. Managing their mood swings, their study routines, etc., was difficult but at the same time once we knew how to communicate with them we were able to handle them better and it became a pleasurable experience.`

`Paathshaala`, which is slated to release April 16 and was completed in 36 days, also stars Ayesha Takia.

Most of the shooting took place at a set covering an area of 20,000 sq ft in Filmcity. It encompassed all the facilities that a school contains.

When asked about reports that Shahid just has a guest appearance in the movie, Ukey said: `Shahid is not making a guest appearance in the film. I don`t know from where this rumour has surfaced. The film is narrated from his point of view and he is an integral part of the project.

`He is a wonderful person to work with. He is an intelligent and creative actor, who gets completely involved in the character he is playing, contributing that something extra to the character.`

So are stars important for a film even if the script is strong?

`I feel a star`s presence is important for a film; otherwise an important subject like this too gets lost. Stars help in getting the opening for the film and get the film people`s attention.`

After `Paathshaala`, Ukey is now working on the script of a film he is planning to make on the third war of Panipat.

`My next project will be a film of the third war of Panipat, which was one of the fiercest wars that ever took place. Once I`m done with the scripting, I`ll start working on the other aspects of the film, including the casting,` said the director, who earlier made forgettable movies like `Humne Jeena Seekh Liya` (2007).

Lara Dutta is ready with another laugh riot `Housefull'

She has done drama and action, but Lara Dutta is partial to comedies. And now she is ready with another laugh riot `Housefull` which she says is mad but not mindless. "It`s not a mindless comedy. It has a tight screenplay. So if you are not following because of all the confusion, you might lose the plot somewhere. It`s a big entertainer with great music with great comic talent. We hope we entertain," Lara told reporters.

Directed by Sajid Khan, `Housefull` revolves around Aarush (Akshay Kumar), who believes his bad luck will disappear if he finds true love. In his quest for love, one lie leads to another and different people from various walks of life come together adding more confusion and resulting in total chaos.

"It goes by the literary meaning of it. There is one house crowded with people. One person has three wives and children. These wives also have some complications. Time comes when all family members are together and confusion takes off, and that`s what the film is all about," said Lara.

After doing "Bhagam Bhaag", "Partner" and "Do Knot Disturb", why did she choose another comedy?

"I like doing comedy; so most of the films I do are comedy films. Comedy is something that works. Last year I did `Billu`, which was in a different space, `Blue` was an action film and `Do Not Disturb` was a comedy. You know you have to pick and find your balance somewhere," said Lara.

But now the actress plans to try other genres. She said: "I would like to take a break from comedy and do something else. I have already shortlisted what I want to do, but I haven`t signed any."

Lara said that she was tired of playing a Punjabi girl and that the role of a modern Gujarati woman in "Housefull" was a welcome change.

"We were tossing things around when we were in the initial stages of the script. We didn`t know whether she is going to be Parsi, Punjabi or Gujarati. I got bored of playing Punjabi characters and so I insisted that my character be not made a Punjabi," said Lara.

In "Housefull", Lara`s character works in a casino, meets someone, falls in love and gets married.

"The only aim of her life is that her father, who stays in Ahmedabad, accepts the man she has married. The funny part was they speak to each other through answering machines and in proper Gujarati. It was fun."

Apart from Lara Dutta, "Housefull" features Boman Irani, Akshay Kumar, Deepika Padukone, Riteish Deshmukh, Arjun Rampal and Jiah Khan.

The former beauty queen is mostly seen in multi-starrers but is happy that every character she portrayed has been indispensable for the film.

"You know I like doing comedy and most comedy films have many characters and therefore they are multi-starrer films. But at the same time every role that I have taken in the comedy films, they are very distinct roles. I genuinely feel that if you take away the character from that film then there would be something missing. The characters really added a lot to the films," said Lara.

Clash of the Titans the new rulers of the weekend Box Office

The gods of Mount Olympus are the new rulers of the weekend Box Office.

The ancient Greek action remake "Clash of the Titans" debuted at No. 1 with $61.4 million, according to studio estimates Sunday. Adding Thursday night preview screenings, the movie totaled $64.1 million.

Released by Warner Bros., "Clash of the Titans" features "Avatar" star Sam Worthington as demigod hero Perseus and Liam Neeson as his dad, Zeus, king of the Olympian deities.

Opening at No. 2 with $30.2 million was Lionsgate`s sequel "Tyler Perry`s Why Did I Get Married Too?", reuniting filmmaker Perry with Janet Jackson and other co-stars for another comic drama about eight friends and their relationships.

The previous weekend`s top movie, DreamWorks Animation`s Viking adventure "How to Train Your Dragon," ran a close third with $29.2 million, raising its 10-day total to $92.3 million.

Miley Cyrus` teen drama "The Last Song" premiered at No. 4 with $16.2 million. The Disney release raised its total to $25.6 million since opening Wednesday. Written by best-selling author Nicholas Sparks specifically for the "Hannah Montana" star, the movie casts Cyrus as a sullen teen spending the summer with her estranged father.

"Clash of the Titans" continued Hollywood`s hit run of 3-D movies, which has included "How to Train Your Dragon" and the blockbusters "Avatar" and "Alice in Wonderland."

With $8.3 million, Disney`s "Alice in Wonderland" came in at No. 5 for the weekend, raising its domestic total to $309.8 million and its worldwide haul to $722 million.

"If three out of the top five films doesn`t spell a mandate for 3-D, I don`t know what does," said Paul Dergarabedian, box-office analyst for Hollywood.com.

Like "Alice in Wonderland," "Clash of the Titans" was shot in 2-D format and converted to 3-D afterward. Critics gripe that such conversions provide lower-quality 3-D images, but audiences do not seem to mind.

"You can`t tell the difference. A super-technician, somebody who does this for a living, if they look carefully enough, they can find some differences," said Dan Fellman, head of distribution for Warner Bros. "I have to tell you, from my own personal experiences, I can`t tell."

"Clash of the Titans" played on about 6,500 screens at 3,777 theaters, with 1,810 of those screens - or 28 percent - showing it in 3-D. Yet the movie did 52 percent of its business in 3-D format, with fans paying a few dollars more than 2-D tickets cost.

"Why Did I Get Married Too" was Perry`s second-biggest debut, behind last year`s "Tyler Perry`s Madea Goes to Jail" with $41 million. Lionsgate, which has distributed all nine of Perry`s movies, had thought his latest might come in around $25 million for the weekend.

"Every time we do one of his movies, I wake up on Saturday and think, why do I always underestimate him?" said David Spitz, head of distribution for Lionsgate. "He`s unbelievable. He knows his audience."

Cyrus` "The Last Song" had modest results compared with the last Sparks love story, "Dear John," which opened with $30.5 million in early February, bumping "Avatar" down a notch after seven weekends at No. 1.

Chuck Viane, head of distribution for Disney, said "Dear John" opened in a less-crowded marketplace the weekend before Valentine`s Day, when women are more in the mood to see a love story.

"The Last Song" held its own among a flurry of other big releases, establishing Cyrus as a box-office draw without her "Hannah Montana" alter-ego, Viane said.

"It unquestionably proves that she can step outside the role and continue to wow them," Viane said. "She`s becoming a real actress. She`s going to be an important name in this business."

Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Hollywood.com. Final figures will be released Monday.

1. "Clash of the Titans," $61.4 million.

2. "Tyler Perry`s Why Did I Get Married Too?", $30.2 million.

3. "How to Train Your Dragon," $29.2 million.

4. "The Last Song," $16.2 million.

5. "Alice in Wonderland," $8.3 million.

6. "Hot Tub Time Machine," $8 million.

7. "The Bounty Hunter," $6.2 million.

8. "Diary of a Wimpy Kid," $5.5 million.

9. "She`s Out of My League," $1.463 million.

10. "Shutter Island," $1.462 million.

Madhavan wife can't stop raving about his look in his last film 'Teen Patti'

R. Madhavan has often got critical and commercial acclaim for his films but this time he has a new fan. The actor’s wife can’t stop raving about his look in his last film ’Teen Patti’.

Madhavan’s wife Sarita, who is a big Justin Timberlake fan, sings pop hit ’I’m bringing sexy back’ to him since she thinks his look in ’Teen Patti’ was very hot.

’Sarita keeps singing ’I’m bringing sexy back’ to Madhavan. It’s her way of sweetly teasing him. She absolutely loves his look in the film,’ said a source.

Madhavan played six characters in the film -- a casanova, an Italian, a high-end party goer, a slum dweller, a professor and a thug.

Akshay Kumar has proved to be a lucky mascot for many actresses

From heroins like Karisma Kapoor, Raveena Tandon and Shilpa Shetty in the 90`s to current beauties Priyanka Chopra and Katrina Kaif, actor Akshay Kumar has proved to be a lucky mascot for many actresses, delivering a number of hits with them.

No wonder, newbie Jiah Khan is hopeful about the prospects of a blooming career post her pairing with Akshay in `Housefull`.

"Well yes, it`s a fact that Akshay Kumar has been a lucky mascot for a lot of actresses over last so many years. However, personally I do believe that everything is not in my hand. I am very spiritual and religious person and so far have believed that God has aided in my journey. It is he (God) who would decide how my journey is going to be in the film
industry," Jiah told reporters.

"Of course `Housefull` is a great prospect for me as well. Akshay is such a huge star and I am one of his leading ladies in the film. Still, the thought of my career seeing a great push after the release of the film is a little scary," said Jiah, who is currently in London.

"Yes, in the past there have been a few things that have gone wrong for me but then I have always believed that this is how God wanted it. If `Housefull` brings me good work then that would indeed be great. But then I would rather wait for that to happen before making any tall claims," she added. For the 22-year-old actress, last three years have
been quite eventful in Bollywood. After making a beginning with none-other-than Amitabh Bachchan in Ram Gopal Varma`s `Nishabd` (2007), she went on to work along with superstar Aamir Khan in `Ghajini` (2008).

She apparently shot for a significant portion of the Ken Ghosh directed film `Chance Pe Dance` opposite Shahid Kapoor, but was later replaced by Genelia D`souza.

Now Jiah arrives in an out and out masala affair like `Housefull` which is set to hit the theatres on April 30.

"When I look back at the years gone by, I feel I have been truly blessed. I mean to have Big B, Aamir and Akshay as your co-stars in the first three films itself is something
that most actors can only dream of.

Akshay has been such a fantastic human being. Whether he is an action hero or a comedian or a serious character or a romantic guy; he is just so superb. I have learnt so much from him as well as Aamir and Amitabh Bachchan during all these
years," Jiah said.

It wasn`t an easy kick start for her though before she started shooting for `Housefull`. Since the Sajid Nadiadwala production is her first multi starrer, Jiah was a bundle of nerves working with the cast that includes Deepika Padukone, Lara Dutta, Riteish Deshmukh along with Arjun Rampal, Boman Irani, Chunky Pandey and Randhir Kapoor apart from Akshay.

"That`s true, I was really so nervous. I mean Akshay is such a huge star, Riteish has a standing of himself in the industry while Deepika, Lara and others have made a good
impact in the industry as well. I have admired them all and I was wondering if I would be able to gel well with them," Jiah said.

"However, all credit to them that they never allowed me to feel aloof or cut off. They were all so mature and professional and loved me to be around them," she added.

Since `Housefull` has been shot across the globe, it was one big all-expenses paid holiday for the actress.

"Really, I never felt that I was stepping out for work. It was just amazing; more so because I could see so many beautiful locations. Being with the crew was like being a part of the family," Jiah said.