World Of Celebs

Aishwarya Rai in a Soft Porn controversy.

2009-05-27T23:21:00.000+05:30

Of all the murky controversies Aishwarya Rai has been dragged in, the latest one where her name has been
used as the title of a soft porn movie, is making her fume and frown. The lissome beauty’s name
that has been a part of many renowned lists has now been used in the title of a C-grade
film called ‘Aishwarya- Based On True Rumours’.

What’s in a name? It’s often asked. Apparently, there is enough for Ash to see red.
Though the plot of the story is not known, the posters, which shows a woman in her
essentials getting intimate with a man, have been enough to irk the stunning beauty.

Though the Bachchan family has chosen to stay mum on the issue, Aishwarya’s spokesperson told a news daily,
“ People have brought this to our notice and she thinks it’s disgusting. How can people stoop to such disgraceful levels
to use a senior actresses respected name for such trash? We are not taking action because we think that it does
not even deserve that much attention."

Going into flashback, this isn’t the first time that a celebrity’s name has been used in such a sleazy manner.
A few years back, Bipasha too was hit by such a controversy. The flick named ‘Bipasha- The Black Beauty’
was made with a Bips look alike. The plot of the film showed as to how a girl after being filmed
having sex ends up becoming a sex worker.

Neethu Chandra Lesbian Photoshoot

2009-05-25T08:41:00.001+05:30

Sada Tamil actress

2009-04-16T18:09:00.000+05:30

Akshay Kumar may be arrested by police

2009-04-10T08:30:00.000+05:30

Troubles are far from over for Akshay and his wife Twinkle Khanna . The couple kicked up a controversy after Twinkle unbuttoned Akshay’s jeans during the Lakme Fashion Week, prompting social activist Anil Nair to file a complaint against the couple and the show’s organisers for obscenity in public.

Now, reports have it that the Mumbai police might arrest Akshay, Twinkle and the organizers.
We’ll make the arrests soon and then take their statements,” Assistant Commissioner of Police Arvind Mahabdi is quoted as saying by HT.

Akshay’s spokesperson, however, said they haven’t yet received any summon from the police.

Though the charges put on Akshay and Twinkle are bailable but if the couple is found guilty in the court of law they may have to spend some time behind bars. However, that seems very unlikely at this stage, even though pressure is building up from more fronts.

An advocate in Meerut has filed a case in the court of Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate Rajesh Kumar against the star couple's ‘unbutton act’ during LFW. The case will come up for hearing next week.

Kareena Kapoor MBBS

2009-04-10T08:29:00.000+05:30

We all know that Kareena Kapoor plays the role of a supermodel in her upcoming magnum opus opposite Akshay Kumar - Kambakht Ishq.

Now the latest news is that she also plays a doctor in the flick who juggles between her two professions.

A source says, “Kareena has a dual career in the film. She is a supermodel and a doctor, who juggles both careers.”

SRK feels he is less intelligent than Aamir

2009-04-10T08:27:00.002+05:30

SRK is always known to make people laugh with his jokes, his humour is not only directed at others but the dimpled actor also mocks himself for entertaining others. When the power Khans of the industry SRK and Aamir came together for a meeting with Mulitplex owners, SRK was at his usual witty best.

When the media asked weather the two Khans will be seen together soon, he replied, “It’s nice to sit on the podium together, it’ll be nice to sit in a car together, it’ll even be nice to do a film together.”
When a journalist asked SRK weather he got together with Aamir only for this cause, he said, “We’re mature, intelligent people, I’m a little less intelligent than Aamir, but our camaraderie is really a non-issue right now. There are bigger things that need attention.”

Sonam has no rules for SRK

2009-04-10T08:27:00.001+05:30

Sonam Kapoor is two films old and is now associated with meaninful flicks and not commercial flick, while she rocked in Saawariya she did a great job in Rakeysh Om Prakash Mehra’s Delhi 6 and now she is eager to work with King Khan SRK.

She says,� “He is another man for whom I will be so very willing to ignore my rule book. I would be more than happy to go ahead and sign a film if Shah Rukh happens to be my hero.”
“There are exceptions that one makes about the size and content of the role when it comes to working with legendary actors; De Niro and Shah Rukh just fit the bill.”
However her rule books comes into consideration if she has to work with others, she says, “I don’t intend to do films where all I am required to do is to dance in four songs and enact a couple of emotional scenes. By no means am I looking at that kind of cinema.”

Preity: IPL to get bigger

2009-04-10T08:26:00.000+05:30

Preity Zinta is one of the owners of IPL team King XI Punjab, who were the runner ups last season is pretty excited about the about IPL’s move to South Africa. Check out her interview below:

Was it a shock to you when the IPL was relocated to South Africa?

The option was to either have it outside India or not at all. No one is happy to shift from home ground. That thrill of playing across our own country at domestic tournaments is gone. Going to various cities with the matches is a high. However, people can still watch it on TV. That’s still there.

But an Indian event shifted to South Africa?

I know. But we’ve to be optimistic. Last year when the IPL started everyone thought it would flop. It became the biggest hit ever. Likewise the shift to South Africa could make the IPL bigger. What else can I do except be hopeful?

But it’s being translocated to a new culture and environment?

Of course, it is! But what can we do? I’ve always believed whatever happens in life happens for the best. The timing of the IPL crisis was unfortunate. My most challenging film, ‘Heaven On Earth’, is on release. I’d have liked more time nurturing it. You know I did ‘Heaven On Earth’ for myself. Lots of times I’ve done things for this reason and that. But this time it was entirely for me. I just needed to connect more with my inner self. This film made me do that.

Tell me about your preparation for the role.

I’ve worked quite a lot with battered women. I’ve studied so many kinds of mental disorders. Domestic violence comes much after other forms of disorder. Every scene in ‘Heaven On Earth’ rings true. I had a hundred notions on how to play the role. But when I met abused women I decided it has to be very real. I’m very proud of it. Let’s see how audiences in India react.

So the IPL moving out of India is like uprooting a national event?

Exactly. It’s like asking an actor to perform in a theatre where nobody knows him. But we’ll make sure that the quality and profile of the game don’t change. Only two percent of the audience watches the game in a stadium. Most of them watch the game on television.

But there’s that vibe when the game happens on home ground. That spirit can’t be captured anywhere. Having said that I don’t want to sound whiny and petty. I want to thank South Africa for agreeing to host the IPL games. They’ve gone out of their way to accommodate us, flung their fields open to us. I think South Africa will make a beautiful home for the games.

Wasn’t the choice between South Africa and England?

Yes, there were several options. But it finally came down to choosing between those two countries. We didn’t want to go into a place where there was too much rain. I think South Africa will be fun. Who knows, they might even allow me to play. That’s my secret fantasy. Miracles do happen, you know.

Is it just elections that ousted IPL from India. Or was there a security scare after what happened to the Sri Lankan cricket team in Pakistan?

I refuse to believe India is scared about the security. Does the country shut down because we can’t get enough security? I think we need to vote even more carefully. We must put proper people in places of power. I don’t think we should vote for anyone who has got criminal records. See their track records and then vote.

How will you be ready with the IPL in South Africa in time?

We Indians don’t only exist in chaos. We thrive in it. Even last year when IPL happened for the first time we grappled with all odds. I know I’m going to have sleepless nights. But that’s a different story. I can’t pretend I’m not disappointed by the relocation. But South Africa is a terrific country.

I’ll have lots to do besides cricket. In Punjab it was difficult for me to move out. Preity Zinta will have a blast shopping in South Africa. Preity Zinta, the team owner, is worried. We’ve no players from South Africa. Neither does Shah Rukh (Khan).

Are the boys demoralized by the relocation?

Their choice was between no IPL and IPL in South Africa.

Arjun Rampal gifts saree to Nicole Kidman

2009-04-10T08:21:00.000+05:30

Arjun Rampal recently shot for an ad with Hollywood star Nicole Kidman and gifted her a beautiful saree designed by ace Indian designer Tarun Tahiliani when she was about to leave.

A source says,”The shoot was very hectic due to Nicole and Arjuns already busy schedule. Nicole initially didnt know that Arjun was a Bollywood star till she saw fans asking for his autographs and taking pictures. Since they had very little time due to the packed schedule, Nicole, who wanted to shop, barely got the chance to do so. Realising this, Arjun asked his wife Meher to get her a sari designed by Tarun Tahiliani. It was a sheer Italian metallic chiffon with tiny swarovski sprinkled on it, a typical Tarun sari.”
Arjun also confirmed this news,”Yes, it is true and Nicole loved it and was very happy about it. She is a complete professional and we did a very good commercial together.”

Namitha “Indra Vizha” sizzling photos

2009-03-16T12:51:00.001+05:30

Indira Vizha has Srikanth as hero along with Namitha, Vivek, Malavika, Jagathy and Hema Malini in crucial roles. K Rajeshwar directs Indira Vizha. K. Rajeshwar has given hits like Idhayathai Thamarai, Amaran, Seevallaperi Pandi.

Here is the hot looks photos ( photo-shoot ) of Namitha in new film “Indra Vizha” directed by K Rajeshwar.

Bikini babes of Bollywood

2009-02-07T20:11:00.002+05:30

Tanushree Dutta covers Maxim

2009-02-07T20:04:00.003+05:30

Item Girls Of South

2009-02-04T11:55:00.002+05:30

Triumph Lingerie show

2009-02-04T11:52:00.001+05:30

Mughda Godse Photo Gallery

2009-02-04T11:36:00.001+05:30

We are ordinary people. Big B

2009-01-26T22:46:00.000+05:30

Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan wants to dispel myths about his "high and mighty" image, saying that he would prefer to be known just as the son of Teji and Harivansh Rai Bachchan.

"I never believed that I was special. I am just blessed. I would like to be known as the son of my father Harivansh Rai Bachchan and mother Teji Bachchan. I respect my parents for bringing me up the way I am," Bachchan said while speaking at the Jaipur Literature Festival Friday.

The superstar, who has given the country the maximum number of hits and blockbusters like "Zanzeer", "Deewaar" and "Don", said he has "never consciously tried to project my star image. It is an epithet created by the media."

"I have not contributed to the fact that I am a star. My son Abhishek and I want to do away with the word star. We are ordinary folks. My relationship with my son is personal and domesticated. Even before Abhishek was born, I had made up my mind that if I ever had a son he would be my friend. Abhishek is as balanced and down-to-earth by nature as I would expect anyone from our family to be.

"While acting, we do not follow any particular routine or concepts - we both leave it to the director. In fact, Abhishek had a very normal upbringing. Jaya and I have never tried to do anything special for him. We did not produce any movie to secure him a toehold in the industry. He has never felt propped up - all that he has done has been on his own," Bachchan said.

Further listing the virtues of his son, Bachchan said Abhishek possesses sharp powers of observation and reaction.

The audience - numbering around 500 - comprised over 165 writers, an equal number of delegates and an army of media representatives both from home and abroad.

Bachchan feels the love of millions of Indians has helped him become the "phenomenon" that he is today.

"The love and affection of the people of the country, my fans who prayed for me each time I fell sick, have helped sustain my journey over the last four decades that began in 1969," said Bachchan.

The actor, who has worked with almost every generation of directors in the country - from Prakash Mehra, Ramesh Sippy, Manmohan Desai, Yash Chopra to Tinu Anand and the youngsters like R. Balakrishna and Sujoy Ghoshe, says he has grown up watching Dilip Kumar and Waheeda Rehman.

"I was their fan and also loved watching Guru Dutt movies. 'Kagaz ke Phool' starring Guru Dutt was my favourite. Now that I have an opportunity to speak about all the directors I have worked with, I hope one of the youngsters in Mumbai grows up to be a Dilip Kumar or Guru Dutt," he said.

Father Harivansh Rai still remains the star's obsession.

"I am not an avid reader, but now whenever I have time to spare, I read my father's poetry and his autobiography. I try to bring out snippets from his works in my blog. And in the process I learn more about my father," he said.

The superstar, who recited "extracts" from his father's seminal work "Madhushala", signed off with a message for the audience: "Yadi man ka ho to accha, agar man ka na ho to aur bhi accha. (If things go the way you want, it is good. And if it does not, it is better)."

2009-01-26T22:44:00.000+05:30

"I did my first film with Sanjay Leela Bhansali and my second film 'Delhi-6' is with Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra. These are big names and I am on top of the world. I am not at all an underdog. I am Anil Kapoor's daughter. I was born with a silver spoon in my mouth,” Sonam told reporters here Friday.

Sonam was speaking at a press conference for the 54th Idea Filmfare Awards 2008. She was here to promote her forthcoming film "Delhi-6", releasing next month.

Sonam maintained that though “Saawariya”, which was released in 2007, failed to click at the box office, it brought her critical acclaim and she “got whatever she needed from the film”.

The 23-year-old actress stressed that she is very much in the league of young actors like her "Saawariya" co-star Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone, who debuted same year with hit movie "Om Shanti Om".

In fact, Deepika walked away with the Filmfare award for best female debut last year.

“Awards are important and it was important for me to win one for 'Saawariya'. I was quite upset that I didn't get the award,” she said.

Sonam, who has recently signed a comic caper “Come On Pappu” with Akshay Kumar, finds comparison with Deepika unfair.

“I can't compare myself with Deepika. She is doing mostly commercial roles and I am not. She is signing more films, but I want to do one film at a time. It takes nearly a year for a film to be made and that's why I am being seen lesser than her,” said Sonam.

Sanjay Dutt In Luck

2009-01-26T22:40:00.000+05:30

A thin handle bar moustache, a small goatee and three triangular side-burns on each cheek - that's Sanjay Dutt's new look for Soham Shah's forthcoming movie "Luck". The actor is very happy with the look.

"Soham Shah is a very talented filmmaker and he has a very creative outlook. We both sat and discussed the look and I'm very happy that Hakim Aalim has styled me exactly as we envisioned," said Sanjay.

Celebrity stylist Aalim gave him this new look on Monday and is pretty satisfied with his work.

“This is one of Sanju's (Sanjay) most daring and dashing looks. It's a very different side-lock with three triangles adjacent to each other. He can carry off anything larger than life. He is looking really cool and sexy and will set a new trend,” Aalim said.

Dhilin Mehta is producing “Luck” under his banner Shree Ashtavinayak Cine Vision Ltd. It is the launch vehicle of Kamal Haasan's daughter Shruti and also stars Imran Khan, Mithun Chakraborthy, Danny Denzongpa, and Ravi Kishan.

The entire team has just left for a 10-day schedule to Cape Town.

'Slumdog...' title not offensive

2009-01-26T22:38:00.000+05:30

Simon Beaufoy, the screenplay writer of Danny Boyle's Golden Globe winning “Slumdog Millionaire” Wednesday said the title of the film was only a “metaphor”.

"There was absolutely no sense I wanted to insult anybody. I just liked the idea of the metaphor (Slumdog)," Beaufoy told reporters here.

“As a part of my research, I was wandering in the slums. I was very intrigued by the cats and dogs wandering around there, who dared to be asleep in the sunshine. Though they do look carefree from the outside, they are watching everything from the rims of their eyes,” he said.

“It is like somebody who is apparently not worthy of an existence but is actually looking at everything and eyeing everything out - just like the boy in the game show who knows everything not through intelligence but through experience. So, I just made up the word,” he added.

Loveleen Tandon, the film's co-director, echoed the same sentiment and said: “ 'Slumdog' is the way the protagonist of the film is referred to. It's actually an English translation of the way we refer to a man from the street or a slum."

“He's looked upon as someone who wants nothing, and in order to say that, it's expressed in this kind of harsh way to make him feel like nothing. It's not that the film is trying to say that a man living in the slums is a dog,” she explained.

Patna-based social worker Tapeshwar Vishwakarma, general secretary of the Jhuggi Jhonpdi Samyukta Sangharsh Samiti, earlier dragged "Slumdog Millionaire" to court, contending that the sensibilities of the slum dwellers have been offended by the movie title.

“I don't feel I've written a film about poverty. That never occurred to me. What I genuinely felt in my heart was the (slum) people's massive spirit and massive determination to overcome terrible troubles. That's how I approached it. 'Slumdog Millionaire' is a fairytale,” said Beaufoy, who was here with Boyle, producer Christian Colson and the main cast of the movie.

Set in Mumbai, the film is about a slum boy who wins a TV quiz show and stars debutante Dev Patel, Frieda Pinto, Anil Kapoor and Irrfan Khan. The film has bagged four Golden Globe awards and 11 BAFTA nominations.

Having already raked in $43 million at the US box office and making a mark in the US Top 10, it is releasing in India Jan 23.

Hot Wallpapers

2009-01-21T16:50:00.000+05:30

SRK Funds Two Orphans

2009-01-21T16:49:00.000+05:30

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has committed to bear all the expenses for the treatment of two Kashmiri orphan children who suffered severe burns during a terrorist grenade attack in Srinagar, doctors said Tuesday.

"He has made it clear - 'no limits' - to the expenses for treating Mudassar and Amina," Ali Irani, the head of department, physiotheraphy & sports medicine at Nanavati Hospital, Vile Parle, told IANS.

A little over two months ago, the home of the two kids in Jammu and Kashmir's summer capital Srinagar was attacked by terrorists. Mudassar and Amina's parents were killed in the grenade attack, while the children suffered burn injuries.

The children suffered some grenade shrapnel injuries and severe - more than 30 percent - burn injuries and they were shifted to a local hospital in Srinagar, Irani, a physiotherapist, said.

When Irani visited the hospital under the auspices of the Indian Association of Physiotherapists, his attention was drawn to their plight.

In turn, Irani suggested that they could be shifted to Mumbai for getting the best treatment, at the Nanavati Hospital - where the children were brought to in December.

Although it would have been easy to get completely free treatment from any doctors, there would be many other expenses of the children to be handled, and Irani requested Shah Rukh Khan for help.

Not only did Shah Rukh readily agree to the suggestion but he also visited the two orphans at the hospital and has promised to take them to his home in Bandra to play with his children, Aryan and Suhana.

"Mudassar suffered severe burns on his face, while Amina's arms and hand have been burnt - but there will not be permanent damage," Irani said.

The two children have already undergone four surgeries which were performed by Atul Shah and L. Dhami - "We don't know how many more surgeries they will required or when they can be discharged," Irani said.

This is not the first time that 44-year-old actor has contributed to a noble cause - according to Irani, he has been doing it for nearly the past nine years.

"He has requested that this must be kept completely confidential, but the information somehow leaked out. There is no count of the number of children that he has helped so far," Irani said.

A few years ago, Shah Rukh had donated Rs.5 million (Rs.50 lakhs) to the children's ward of the hospital in memory of his mother, Lateef Fatima Khan, who died 18 years ago.

Luck By Chance - Juhi

2009-01-21T16:47:00.000+05:30

Juhi Chawla has coloured her hair blonde for her role in Zoya Akhtar's directorial debut "Luck By Chance".

Juhi, last seen in Ravi Chopra's "Bhootnath", will play veteran actor Rishi Kapoor's wife in the film.

"Playing Minty was so much fun! And moreover I got to colour my hair blonde, which was something I had never done before," said Juhi.

"When Zoya offered me the role I was extremely thrilled. Even though I was told it was not a big role, I didn't mind as it was different from all the other characters I have played before, and that was the most exciting part," she added.

"Luck By Chance", releasing Jan 30, stars Farhan Akhtar and Konkona Sen Sharma and has a much-hyped guest appearance by superstar Hrithik Roshan.

Doctorate to Honour Dilip Kumar by Urdu University

2009-01-21T16:43:00.003+05:30

Thespian Dilip Kumar will be conferred with honorary doctorate by Maulana Azad National Urdu University here next month.

Kumar, one of the greatest actors of Indian cinema, will be conferred the honour at the annual convocation of the university to be held on Feb 21.

India's former ambassador to the United States Abid Hussain, eminent Urdu writer and scholar Gopi Chand Narang and well-known Urdu novelist Jeelani Bano will also receive the honorary degrees, said a statement issued by the university here Tuesday.

Sukhadeo Thorat, Chairman, University Grants Commission will be the chief guest and will deliver the convocation address while Syeda Saiyidain Hameed, the chancellor of Urdu University will preside over the convocation.

The Urdu University was established in 1998 by an act of parliament as a central university to promote and develop the Urdu language, provide higher, technical and vocational education in the Urdu medium and to provide focus on women's education.

Who will be Benegal's Carmen?

2009-01-21T16:36:00.000+05:30

Now that Shyam Benegal has decided to revive his costliest project "Chamki", a desi version of French musician Georges Bizet's 1875 opera "Carmen", the question is who will play the title role of a free-spirited fiery-tempered gypsy in the movie?

According to sources, Priyanka Chopra more than Kareena Kapoor is the natural choice to play Chamki since the role requires a trained dancer.

When contacted, Priyanka told IANS that she was open to the offer. "But I read the script ages ago. The whole project now has to be evaluated afresh. And who wouldn't want to work with Shyam Benegal?"

"Chamki" has been pending for a while. Earlier, the project was with Sanjay Gupta. Now, Big Pictures is producing the film.

In the past too, both Priyanka and Kareena were approached for "Chamki", but they opted out for various reasons.

"Kareena was excited to begin with. She was supremely charged by the role and what Benegal had done with her sister Karisma in 'Zubeidaa'. But then she opted out - as she often does from offbeat challenges like Deepa Mehta's 'Water' and Rituparno Ghosh's 'Raincoat' - pleading it was too early for her to attempt something so unconventional," said a source close to the project.

"Then came Priyanka who was quite kicked about the part, but she and the film's then producer Sanjay Gupta had a fallout after Priyanka said no to his 'Musafir'. The 'Chamki' role then went to Urmila Matondkar, who had monetary issues with the producer."

With the film changing producers, it is understood that money is no longer an issue.

While Priyanka is still interested in the project, Kareena's views were not yet known.

"Kareena continues to have reservations about non-mainstream cinema. Barring Pritish Nandy Communications' 'Chameli', she has never returned to non-mainstream cinema," said the source.

'Chamki', set in Rajasthan, is being re-designed as a big broad epic musical with choreography and lavish songs by Javed Akhtar and A.R. Rahman.

"No expense will be spared to make 'Chamki' a big blockbuster," added the source.

Priyamani Hot Sizzler

2009-01-21T16:35:00.000+05:30

BYLONA....She Boiling Hot Baby

2009-01-20T19:06:00.002+05:30

John & Katrina Barred from a Night Club

2009-01-20T18:48:00.001+05:30

John Abraham and Katrina Kaif’s idea to celebrate after a hectic schedule turned out to be a spoiled effort when they were not allowed to enter in to a New York night club. What was more embarrassing was that the bouncers did not pay heed to their celebrity status and stuck to the demand of ID proof.According to a source present at the venue, “A crew member wanted to celebrate his birthday. He invited everybody to a new nightclub in New York. After a hard day’s shoot, the entire gang left for the night club”.

The source further added, “While the crew members went ahed in one car, John, Katrina and Kabir Khan followed in another. When they were stopped at the nightclub, they tried to reason with the bouncers that they were well known and respected people from India. John and Katrina told them that they were film stars from India but the bouncers only stared at them.

The bouncers had no clue what John and Katrina were talking about. The called the crew members, who were inside but they too were of no help”.Katrina and John along with their director Kabir Khan back geared to their hotel where they left their ID proof but by the time they returned to the club, the party was almost over. They covered one hour ride from the night club to the hotel to acquire their IDs proof.

Sexy Nayantara

2009-01-19T22:06:00.001+05:30

Hot Cleavages

2009-01-19T21:31:00.001+05:30

Reply To Big B from Directors

2009-01-19T21:29:00.000+05:30

From Shekhar Kapur to Kunal Kohli, Sriram Raghavan to Bhavna Talwar - all leading Indian filmmakers disagree with Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan's off-the-cuff remarks slamming Danny Boyle's Golden Globe winning underdog drama "Slumdog Millionaire" for exposing India's "dirty underbelly".

"A film is made by a filmmaker's vision and sensibility, not nationality. Any film that tells a compelling human story and moves an audience will be appreciated by all. Human emotions are universal, be it an Indian or Western audience," Bhavna Talwar, who directed critically acclaimed "Dharm", told IANS.

Shekhar Kapur, internationally acclaimed Indian filmmaker, echoes the same feelings.

"Let's get it right - 'Slumdog...' is an Indian film. It is easily the most successful Indian film ever. So what if it [sic] the funds came from outside India. The funds for 'Bandit Queen' came from the same source and it is considered an Indian film. The funds for 'Chandni Chowk to China' came from Warner Brothers, but it is considered an Indian film," Kapur noted on his blog.

"Except for the director, screenwriter and one of the producers, everyone else of the 100-odd people that make a complete film unit were Indian. The film is also based on book by an Indian author," he added.

Bachchan, who has since backtracked, slammed the film on his blog. "'Slumdog Millionaire' projects India as Third World dirty under belly developing nation and causes pain and disgust among nationalists and patriots."

"Audiences do not judge a film on the basis of its maker, but how the film is made. Since 'Slumdog...' is such a good film, it would have got such a reaction even it were made by any director whether Indian or Westner," said Kunal Kohli.

Sriram Raghavan, of "Johnny Gaddar" fame, said: "A really good film made by and Indian will sure appeal world wide. And we do have films like 'Bandit Queen' and 'Monsoon Wedding', which have won raves reviews all over."

A crew-member from "Slumdog Millionaire" said on condition of anonymity: "The story of 'Slumdog...' is about hope and optimism and it is not highlighting the harsh reality of Indian poverty. That way we also have films like 'Chandni Bar', but they don't hit under the belt.

"'Slumdog...' has got nothing to do with a Western making the film. We also have a lot of talented here but they are scared to take the jump. We are half-hearted in our approach because we make films for money and so we are not honest in our projects. Danny Boyle being a Britisher believed in his project."

Based on Indian diplomat Vikas Swarup's bestseller "Q&A", "Slumdog Millionaire" have become the cynosure of all festivals around the world and won four Golden Globe awards apart from bagging 11 nominations at the forthcoming BAFTA awards. It is tipped to a big draw at Academy Awards too.

Swarup too argues the film does not portray the "underbelly" of Indian poverty.

"What it shows is that stories from India are finding increasing resonance in the world. There is a huge hunger about to know about India," Swarup, currently India's deputy high commissioner to South Africa, told IANS in an interview last week.

"The novel strikes a chord with ordinary people because it's about endless possibilities of life - anything is possible. The themes the novel explores like love, friendship and fate, are universal," he added.

Bachchan seemed to have overlooked and brushed under the carpet Indian filmmakers who did get global recognition.

Film maestro Satyajit Ray was conferred with the Lifetime Achievement Oscar and Bhanu Athaiya bagged the coveted trophy for the best costumes for "Gandhi".

Moreover, Mehboob Khan's "Mother India", Vidhu Vinod Chopra's short film "An Encounter with Faces", Mira Nair's "Salaam Bombay", Ashutosh Gowariker's "Lagaan" and Ashwin Kumar's short-film "Little Terrorist" won Oscar nominations.

Mast Girl Of Bollywood- Raveena

2009-01-19T21:22:00.001+05:30

Known once as the "Mast Mast" girl of Bollywood, Raveena Tandon has been on a long sabbatical from movies after marriage and motherhood. She now faces the arc lights for Revathy's "Just Aap Ke Liye" and says she will accept films only if the roles suit her age.

"I am very realistic and do a reality check always. So, I want to do something that suits my age because now I cannot see myself doing some silly stuff," Raveena told IANS in an interview.

"I do not want my kids to feel embarrassed. I have to make them proud and that is why I want to do only selected movies," added the National Award winning actress who was in the capital for the inauguration of a kids carnival that started Friday.

She refused to divulge anything about "Just Aap Ke Liye".

Raveena, 34, has joined the bandwagon of actresses like Kajol, Juhi Chawla and Madhuri Dixit, who are full-time moms but don't mind facing the camera if the role is good enough and suits their age.

"Thanks to the changing scene of the film industry, there are no more clichés attached to you being married. Now characters are churned out in such a way that if you fit the bill, you can prove your mettle irrespective of your age and marital status," Raveena said.

"The media too deserves credit for this because they do not allow us to hide and are always interested in knowing about our whereabouts. This helps us in connecting with our fans, who want to see us back on screen," she added.

Raveena bid adieu to filmdom after tying the knot with film distributor Anil Thadani in 2004. She is a proud mother of three-year-old Rasha and one-and-a-half-year-old son Ranbir. She says the two take all her time and running around them keeps her fit and slim.

"I am a full-time mother and the whole day is spent running after my kids. This, in fact, has helped me get rid of my pregnancy fat. They are so active and full of energy that sometimes it gets very difficult to match their energy levels," she said.

"It is a pleasure watching them grow and see their smiles and answer their out-of-the box questions," she added.

Raveena also maintained that being a parent has taught her all those things that her parents used to preach.

"Now I realise the import of what my parents used to tell me when they would say that I will realise the importance of being a parent only when I become one.

"Being a responsible and a good parent is a tough job, but I am sure we will be able to teach them what our parents taught us, and impart all the values that can keep them grounded," she said.

Last year, Raveena was the judge of the TV reality show "Chak De Bachche" on 9X, but right now she is taking it easy.

Do you miss the fun-filled life of Bollywood?

"Not at all... because most of the time then I was juggling between shoots and the studios, and dancing in leather pants under the hot sun," she said.

The actress has worked in movies like "Andaaz Apna Apna", "Satta", "Ziddi" and won the National Award for her performance in "Daman".

Asin The tamil Beauty

2009-01-18T12:30:00.001+05:30

With several Bollywood projects in hand, southern beauty Asin Thottumkal moved to Mumbai from Chennai but says she has no plans to stay in the city permanently.

"This is not a permanent shift from south Indian film industry to Bollywood, it's just that I had two exciting projects, so I came here," Asin, who was adjudged the best newcomer at Nokia Star Screen Awards for her performance in Aamir Khan starrer "Ghajini", told IANS.

The 23-year-old actress, who was also in the Tamil version of "Ghajini", will be next seen in Vipul Shah's mega budget film "London Dreams" with Salman Khan and Ajay Devgan.

Deepika Padukone Not A Celebrity

2009-01-18T12:28:00.000+05:30

She made her first big screen appearance with superstar Shah Rukh Khan, in her second film she worked under the prestigious Yash Raj banner and her third release saw her teaming up with Akshay Kumar, and yet Deepika Padukone doesn't consider herself a celebrity.

"I don't consider myself a celebrity. I believe that I've had a fantastic upbringing and I believe my parents have kept me really grounded and rooted. I hope that success never gets to me," said Deepika whose "Chandni Chowk To China" has just hit the screens.

"I've seen my father (badminton champion Prakash Padukone) handle success really well and I hope I continue in the same way because I believe that fame and money are secondary things. The main thing is to enjoy your work," she added.

The 23-year-old was applauded for her performances in her maiden venture "Om Shanti Om" followed by "Bachna Ae Haseeno".

She is currently working in Imtiaz Ali's "Production No. 1".

Three Idiots

2009-01-18T12:27:00.000+05:30

He doesn't have to travel so he gets enough time to play and sleep. Bollywood perfectionist Aamir Khan says he is having the time of his life while shooting for Rajkumar Hirani's "Three Idiots" at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) campus here.

“I am having a great time shooting at IIM Bangalore (IIMB). Since, I am staying on the campus, I save on travel time and as a result I am finally getting to sleep. I can't tell how happy I am,” Aamir posted on his blog www.aamirkhan.com/blog Friday.

“Raju is an absolute delight to work with and so are the rest of the cast and crew. I'm really enjoying playing badminton, tennis and chess with the students here,” he added.

Produced by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, the film is based on Chetan Bhegat's bestseller “Five Point Someone” and also stars Sharman Joshi and R. Madhavan in the lead apart from Aamir.

Posting for the first time after the release of his worldwide grosser “Ghajini” that raked in around Rs.2 billion worldwide, the star also thanked his fans for their support.

“I am so happy that the film has gone down so well with audiences. I am thrilled with the big opening that the film got and the kind of history it created at the box office. I am touched and deeply moved by the faith you have shown in me. Thank you,” he wrote.

The actor is also catching up on the times of yore as he is reading Ramchandra Guha's “India After Gandhi”.

Isha Sharvani- Diva of the Dancing World

2009-01-18T12:20:00.001+05:30

She is known as the diva of the dancing world; the other rules the beat. But prolific dancer Isha Sharvani thinks no one can match actor Hrithik Roshan when it comes to shaking a leg.

Isha waltzed with the actor in Parle's Hide and Seek biscuit ad and she once again teams up with the actor in the forthcoming film "Luck By Chance".

"It was such an amazing experience to perform with Hrithik again. He's such a great performer. I remember, for the 'Hide and Seek' ad, our practice session lasted for three days and one should see him practise. No one can match his steps. He is so full of energy and is so much fun to work with," Isha told IANS over phone from Mumbai.

Apart from Hrithik, Isha assures that "people will get to see a little bit of dancing" from her too in the film.

Directed by debutante Zoya Akhtar, "Luck By Chance" is a menagerie of characters and activities about making it big in Bollywood. Produced by Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar, the film is releasing Jan 30.

Farhan plays the main lead and the cast also has Konkona Sen Sharma, Dimple Kapadia, Rishi Kapoor, Juhi Chawla and an ensemble of almost everyone in Bollywood in walk-on parts.

Throwing light on her character in the film, the 23-year-old said: "This is a whole film about making it big in Bollywood and I am a part of that struggle. I play the daughter of a diva played by Dimple Kapadia."

Rumours are also rife that "Luck By Chance" is Bollywood's next "Om Shanti Om", considering its behind the scenes portrayal of the film industry.

But Isha slammed all such speculations and said: "The film is very different from 'Om Shanti Om'. The plots of both the movies are very different. 'Om Shanti Om' was much more of a musical. While 'Luck By...' has a different take on Bollywood. It's much more real.

"I think Zoya has really put together a fantastic script and characters in the movie. The film is unique in its approach."

Isha considers her getting a role in "Luck By Chance" as a matter of "luck".

"My getting this film is totally a matter of luck. I had no idea that Zoya would sign me for the film. I feel so lucky that I got to work with her in her maiden venture," she said.

However, the actress also had some sore moments while shooting for the film.

"When I was doing a ring sequence in the film, I was suspended from a hook in the air and the costume I was wearing had a lot of diamonds on it. As a result, I ended up being completely scratched because of the diamonds but I am glad the sequence came out really lovely," she said.

Isha forayed into Bollywood with Subhash Ghai's dud "Kisna" in 2005 and has since been seen in lesser-known and back to back flops like "Darwaza Bandh Rakho", "Rocky: The Rebel" and "Good Boy, Bad Boy" in 2006.

In 2008, she featured in Ajay Devgan's directorial debut "U, Me Aur Hum".

She doesn't have any other films in her kitty at present, but is concentrating on a new dance show for smal screen with her mother, renowned dancer and choreographer Daksha Seth.

"It's based on martial arts. We are thinking about a name right now for the show as we haven't zeroed in on anything yet. However, the show will be aired from April 3 onwards," she said.

On being asked if she has any plans of stepping into her mother's footsteps - that is, choreography - she said: "I am not interested in any activity other than dancing and acting. So, no choreography or anything else for me in the future too.

"I am a dancer and an actress and I am game for just the two as both are really and equally important to me," she said.

The actress is not bogged down by the pressure in Bollywood and tries to balance dancing and acting.

"I always think one should balance one's time and I think I am being able to do that between both my dancing and acting."

Busy Schedule For Aishwarya

2009-01-18T12:17:00.001+05:30

It is going to be a very busy year for Aishwarya Rai. She not only has Mani Ratnam's gruelling "Ravan" with husband Abhishek Bachchan to complete, she also begins work on Sanjay Leela Bhansali's next movie, with Hrithik Roshan, to be shot in Goa.

But before that she goes into filmmaker Vipul Shah's next film with Akshay Kumar in the lead. Both Vipul and Akshay, who are co-producing the film, were very keen to get Aishwarya for what they describe as a genre-breaking drama.

Aishwarya has also signed up Excel Entertainment's untitled thriller to be directed by Abhinay Deo, who is currently busy shooting his directorial debut "Delhi Belly".

For the film, Aishwarya will once again team up with hubby Abhishek.

Confirming the news, Ritesh Sidhwani of Excel Entertainment said: "It would be a very stylish thriller to be shot entirely in Greece, Thailand, Istanbul and London.

"My director Abhinay Deo and I want a particular look for the film. We're trying to get the DOP (director of photography) of the new Nike international commercial. If not, there's Jason West who shot our 'Rock On!'. He can capture that subtle sleek look which the subject demands. We want the film's visual quality to be something never experienced by our audience."

The film would be Aishwarya's second with Abhishek after "Ravan".

2009 Kingfisher calendar Hottest Photo

2009-01-18T12:06:00.002+05:30

I'd love to play Lord Krishna: Aamir Khan

2009-01-16T10:01:00.000+05:30

Aamir Khan talks to Paarul Vats of India Syndicate about the success of Ghajini, '3 Idiots' and his dream project, 'Mahabharata'. Q. How come you are sporting a new and lean look?

My body is my instrument. I have to keep changing it according to the character’s demand. When I was trying to get eight-packs, I thought it was the most difficult job in the world. It took a lot of conviction to go through the training sessions. I now have to shed the eight packs for a lean look, and I feel becoming lean is more difficult.

Q. Can you tell us something about '3 Idiots'? In '3 Idiots', I play a college guy. I am working for the lean look to look like a college student. I am trying to model my character in '3 Idiots' on Murugadoss (Laughs).

Q. How do you feel post the success of 'Ghajini'? It feels great. I am not a number person, and I am completely ignorant about the business aspect. The appreciation is overwhelming. The entire team of ‘Ghajini’ has worked hard for the success.

Q. You had rejected 'Ghajini' when it was first offered to you. I never rejected it. I liked the Tamil version of 'Ghajini'. I felt Salman Khan or Akshay Kumar was more suited for the action hero role. I talked to Surya about the role. He said, "Nobody would be able to do this as good as you can". I took on the role and the rest is history.

Q. What are your criteria for selecting a movie? Main us ghode pe baithta hoon jo teda ho. I take the risk of choosing different scripts. When I did 'Taare Zameen Par', I never knew it would be such a big hit. When I saw the Tamil 'Ghajini' for the first time, I was on the edge of my seat throughout the movie. I felt happy during the sweet love story, sad when the lead actress dies, excited during the action sequences. I went through all the emotions, and that is what a good movie is all about. The emotions should be conveyed by the narration of the movie.

Hollywood action director doubted Akshay Kumar's stunt abilities

2009-01-16T09:59:00.000+05:30

Hollywood-based action choreographer Huan-Chiu Ku was doubtful about Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar's ability to perform the gravity-defying stunts in the forthcoming action-comedy "Chandni Chowk To China".

"I had doubts if Akshay could do the stunts, but he did it very well. Whatever stunts I asked him to do, he agreed to do it without any hesitations - be it sky diving from the platform of the building or any other stunt," Huan, who is also known as Dee Dee Ku, said in an email interview with IANS.

"When I asked him (Akshay) whether he had done this kind of stunts earlier, he said no. I think he is very good," he added.

Throwing light on a scene that he found it difficult to put together in the film, Huan said: "The hardest part in the film was when Akshay had to fight with a seven-foot-tall guy who was very strong and weighed somewhere around 200 pounds. When a huge guy tries to punch you, you try to get back to avoid the punch and Akshay would react very fast - I had to tell him to move slow."

Co-produced by Ramesh Sippy Entertainment, People Tree Films and Hollywood studio Warner Bros, "Chandni Chowk To China" is an action-comedy helmed by Nikhil Advani and is releasing Friday.

Rubbing shoulders with Akshay as his lady love in the movie is Deepika Padukone. Huan has also trained Deepika, who is already being touted as the 'Catwoman' of India for her fearless wielding of the nan chaku and agile movements in the film.

"We started training her in the beginning of the film. We trained Deepika for two weeks and she was very good at the fight scenes. I have seen some rushes and she has done a good job. She had tried hard for it and the sequences look very powerful," said Huan.

"After two days of doing the stunts, I saw her (Deepika) walking very slowly. She was hurt, but still she was too graceful while doing the scenes," he added.

Huan also shared that though scheming action sequences for an Indian film was "not much of a difference" for him, he was left bamboozled by certain aspect of Bollywood filmmaking.

"There was singing and dancing in the film, which was very different for me. For me, an action film has only actions and they (the producers) have incorporated comedy in the action film, which is rarely seen," he said.

Huan has been in the stunt business for almost 27 years and has worked as part of acclaimed Chinese martial arts choreographer and film director Yuen Woo Ping's team since 1991.

He has choreographed action sequences for films like "Iron Monkey", "Fist of Fury", "Romeo Must Die", "Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon" and Stepen Chow's latest film "CJ7".

Star Screen Award Winners List

2009-01-15T14:46:00.000+05:30

Hrithik Roshan was crowned Best Actor at the Nokia 15th Annual Star Screen Awards with Priyanka Chopra winning Best Actress..

Best Film
Jodhaa Akbar

Best Director
Ashutosh Gowarikar - Jodhaa Akbar

Best Actor (Male)
Hrithik Roshan - Jodhaa Akbar

Best Actor (Female)
Priyanka Chopra – Fashion

Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Male)
Arjun Rampal - Rock On

Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Female)
Shahana Goswami - Rock On

Best Actor in a Negative Role (Male/Female)
Akshaye Khanna – Race

Best Actor in a Comic Role (Male/Female)
Tusshar Kapoor - Golmaal Returns

Best Music
A. R. Rahman - Jodhaa Akbar

Best Playback Singer (Male)
KK - Khuda Jaane (Bachna Ae Haseeno)

Best Playback Singer (Female)
Shilpa Rao - Khuda Jaane (Bachna Ae Haseeno)

Best Lyrics
Anvita Dutt Guptan - Khuda Jaane (Bachna Ae Haseeno)

Most Promising Newcomer (Male)
Farhan Akhtar - Rock On

Most Promising Newcomer (Female)
Asin Thottumkal – Ghajini

Best Story
Neeraj Pandey - A Wednesday!

Best Screenplay
Shiraz Ahmed – Race

Best Popular Actor Award
Akshay Kumar - Singh Is Kinng

Lifetime Achievement Award
Sanjay Khan

I'm not going to risk my life for any film: Bipasha Basu

2009-01-15T14:02:00.003+05:30

Bipasha Basu, who abruptly left the shooting schedule of "Lamhaa" in Kashmir last year, says she left in a huff because a certain security she had been promised wasn't provided at the location.

"Too much was made out of the whole thing. 'Lamhaa' is a difficult film. There was bound to be ups and downs. The producer and director knew why I left. A certain amount of security was promised. The first seven days were absolute chaos - nothing was organised and there was a lack of security.

"Yes, my work is my life. But then I've a life beyond work. I'm not going to risk my life unnecessarily for any film. Who comes to hold your hand when you're in pain? Let's be optimistic," Bipasha told IANS.

Bipasha has now returned to Kashmir to shoot for "Lamhaa", with the assurance from the producer Bunty Walia and director Rahul Dholakia of beefed-up security.

After last year's incident, Bipasha's security is of special concern and her co-star Sanjay Dutt, in fact, proceeded to Kashmir a day ahead of her to ensure the atmosphere is conducive for the actress to resume shooting.

Walia has met a senior police official in Kashmir, who has assured security to the cast and crew while the film is shot.

"This time hopefully we'll shoot without any trouble. Let's be sensible about it. 'Lamhaa' is a sensible film," Bipasha said.

Bipasha has dropped plans of learning the language and behaviour of the local Kashmiri girls.

"It'd be difficult for audiences to follow. At the end of the day we're making a commercial film," she said.

The actress, who starred in last year's first big hit "Race", says she thoroughly enjoyed her cameo in the song "Phir milenge chalte chalte" in "Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi".

"It was like Mumtaz-meets-Sadhana. I loved it! I got a chance to work with Shah Rukh Khan, nothing else matters. Like millions, I had seen him on screen. Then I met him for a show and I was very impressed.

"I didn't do 'Rab Ne...' in the hope of doing a full-length role with Shah Rukh and Aditya Chopra. That one day of shooting with Shah Rukh was memorable. He's the nicest superstar I've ever met and irresistibly charming. This was my chance to dance."

Bipasha hasn't signed any films after Dholakia's "Lamhaa".

"Before that I only have 'Aa Dekhe Zaraa' with Neil Nitin Mukesh. I just don't feel like signing anything until I'm convinced about it. With 'Lamhaa' it was an instant affinity to the role. And I love working with Rahul Dholakia.

"He's fun and funny. We've a strange equation. He looked at me at the start and asked if I am a method actor. I liked that. It showed the director had enough respect in me to first find out what kind of an actress I am," she said.

I'm not going to risk my life for any film: Bipasha Basu

2009-01-15T14:02:00.002+05:30

I hope Deepika does not beat me: Akshay Kumar

2009-01-15T14:02:00.001+05:30

Action hero Akshay Kumar says he helped co-star Deepika Padukone match his action skills in their forthcoming film "Chandni Chowk To China" but made sure she came "second best" to him.

"She (Deepika) once said she wants to be the female Akshay. I hope she doesn't beat me. She has done a good job in the film and I helped her here and there. That way I made sure she always came out second best to me," Akshay told IANS in an email interview.

Though Akshay was slightly apprehensive in helping Deepika considering "how good women are at picking up skills", he was quite sure he wouldn't be "outshone" by his leading lady.

"Chandni Chowk To China", slated to release Friday, features the two actors in a story of an Indian cook, Sidhu, played by Akshay, who goes to China and is mistaken for a martial arts expert.

The film is apparently based partly on Akshay's own life as he was also born in Chandni Chowk in Delhi and grew up to go to Bangkok to work as a chef.

About his character in the film, he said: "I love my character. It's so much like me. Come to think of it, Sidhu is a man I was once in Bangkok. Though the purpose of the journey is different but the drama is definitely the same. I have fought as many villains in this movie as I have in my career."

"Chandni Chowk..." is being talked about for its aggressive promotional activities as well as for the association of international names like renowned Chinese actor Gordon Liu and action choreographer Dee Dee Ku.

For Akshay, training under Ku, who has worked for films like "Kill Bill", "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" and "Matrix" among others, was like "squeezing blood from a stone".

"He is super quick. Whenever he would have crazy stunt ideas, one couldn't figure if he was serious or joking. He is incredible in his field. And I trusted him with my life.

"If I would have met him before, my life would have been different. He has only worked with the best. So pleasing him was like squeezing blood from a stone. When he used to say 'Akshay the take is okay', that used to be a huge compliment coming from him," he said.

Sharing screen space with Gordon Liu was like a childhood dream come true for the actor.

"You know how fans react when they see Aamir Khan and how they run behind him. That's how I see Gordon Liu. I have admired him and his martial arts since the beginning. It was superb working with him," said Akshay.

"Chandni Chowk..." also holds the credit of being the first Indian film to be shot at the Great Wall of China.

"We had a fabulous experience shooting at the legendary monument of the world - the Great Wall of China. It was spiritually breathtaking and probably the highlight of our shoot," he shared.

A part of the film has also been shot in Chandni Chowk. Akshay has a lot of fond memories of the popular market place.

"Shooting in Chandni Chowk was a unique experience. I was born there. I thought it was sheer madness to shoot there in the narrow lanes but people there were overwhelming. I am an expert regarding the food available there so I used to treat the unit of the film to the best delicacies there," he said.

'Ghajini' producer presents gold statuette to Aamir Khan

2009-01-15T14:00:00.000+05:30

Madhu Mantena, who co-produced the super hit film "Ghajini" with Allu Arvind, has presented an Oscar-sized gold statuette worth Rs.8 million to Aamir Khan.

It was designed specially to resemble the star's look in the action thriller, "eight-pack-abs included", said Mantena.

The statuette has reportedly cost the producer close to Rs.7-8 million. Mantena gave it to Aamir earlier this week, at a party held to celebrate the film's success.

"It has a certain amount of other metal to make it mouldable. Solid gold wouldn't allow the identical 'Ghajini' shape. But the idea was to create an Oscar-sized statue exclusively for 'Ghajini'. Aamir knew he was getting a trophy. But he didn't know it would be golden and with his 'Ghajini' look. He was overwhelmed," Mantena told IANS.

Director A.R. Murugadoss was given a statue too.

Slumdog Millionaire Review

2009-01-15T13:59:00.000+05:30

'SlumdogMillionaire' - a stifling look inside Mumbai's slums (IANS Film Review)

Rating: **

Danny Boyle's stiflingly and oppressively visceral film "Slumdog Millionaire" is above all about the realisation that most slum dwellers in Mumbai have no hope whatsoever of escaping their wretched existence. In the end, the movie seems like one giant heap of rotting and fetid urban squalor from which emerges a momentary ray of hope in the form of its protagonists - Jamal Malik (Dev Patel) and Latika (Freida Pinto).

Even though the movie's denouement comes with Jamal wining Rs.20 million on the Indian version of "Who Wants to be a Millionaire?" as well as his childhood love Latika, you get a sinking feeling that the rest in their world have no prospect of unshackling the iron grip of misery on their lives.

It would be stating the obvious to evoke Dickensian parallels while watching the irredeemably cruel world of vicious adults preying on unsuspecting children and turning them into beggars. I was particularly struck by the clever use of the famous devotional song by the great poet Surdas "Darshan Do Ghanshyam Naath" while blinding a child singer's eyes by pouring acid to make his begging much more effective.

Overall "Slumdog Millionaire" works exceptionally well as a frenzied and largely heartless narrative of Mumbai's slum life if one disregards some contrivances. The sudden burst of anti Muslim rioting, which is always a possibility on the streets of some Indian cities, came across as gratuitous and distinctly out of place.

It is understandable that capturing the relentless onslaught of cruelty of life in Mumbai's slums is a huge challenge for any director, particularly for one who had no idea about it prior to this movie. But the lives of Jamal and those around him are so bereft of anything even remotely edifying that one cannot but question Boyle's approach.

Having observed Dharavi, Asia's largest slum in the heart of Mumbai, which is obviously the inspiration for the movie, I do not really blame Boyle if he hurls a plate full of decaying entrails at you.

Not having read Vikas Swarup's book "Q & A" on which the movie is based, I am not quite sure if the book is so stark and unsparing of Mumbai. For Boyle to make it work for his primary audiences in the West, he had to light every tail on fire in a manner of speaking.

As if the lives in Mumbai's slum is not harrowing enough in itself, Boyle has a scene of Jamal as a little boy inside a ramshackle toilet hearing of a helicopter carrying Indian cinema's biggest icon Amitabh Bachchan landing in the vicinity. The toilet's keeper, another young boy, locks up the toilet out of sheer cussedness. The only way out for Jamal, who for some strange reasons carries a picture of Bachchan's with him to the toilet, is to escape by jumping into the pit below full of faeces. He does jump into the pit and comes out sodden with excrement and runs to Bachchan for his autograph. So foul and horrendously dirty he looks that the other screaming fans are forced to let him through the mob. There was tragic humour in there somewhere, but it took me a while to smile.

The plot is quite brilliantly crafted by Simon Beaufoy although I am not sure how much of Swarup's structure is faithfully retained in the final product. I really wonder if either Boyle or Beaufoy would know about "Darshan Do Ghanshyam". They had to have roped in some Indian intelligence on that. Jamal's journey from the degrading slums to the winner of "Who Wants to be a Millionaire" is replete with so many examples of cruelty, greed, viciousness and inhumanity that one might be forced to wonder whether all that can happen to a single human being.

Unfortunately, it happens to hundreds of thousands of them on a daily basis in such slums.

The film's cast works exceptionally well. Dev Patel, a British actor of Indian heritage, brings a charming callowness to his performance that may not work elsewhere. The young Jamal played by Ayus Mahesh Khedekar also brings a powerfully engaging rawness.

Madhu Mittal as Jamal's adult older brother Salim and Azharuddin Mohammed Ismail as the child are outstanding as characters who have fallen on the wrong side of the divide. Frieda Pinto and Rubina Ali as the adult and child Latika, respectively, measure up quite well.

Irrfan Khan, regarded as one of India's finest actors, as a police inspector is reliably credible as always. Anil Kapoor, one of the biggest Hindi cinema stars, as a self-absorbed and swaggering host of the TV show is an absolute delight. He gives the impression that he just walked into the role without any problems at all.

A.R. Rahman's music, as always, defies classification, which is a good thing. The film's conclusion with a song and dance number with a thousand extras at Mumbai's VT station (now Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus) seemed odd since I saw the film after the wrenching terror strikes there Nov 26.

Anthony Dod Mantel's cinematography, although not my favourite style, gives the movie that visceral feel that may not have worked with pretty and well structured frames. This is a personal weakness and I am not finding faults with Mantel's work, but it was a pity not to see even one memorable shot in the entire movie.

Of course, Mantel's brief from Boyle ought to have been to capture the sheer heartlessness of slums. However, it would not have hurt to produce a couple of brilliant shots, especially while filming scenes at the Taj Mahal.

Chris Dickens' editing too had to keep pace with the mood of the film and it does. Once again, it is a matter of personal taste. I did not quite like it. All this is nitpicking in a movie that wallops you in the face with an unvarnished piece of log that could well be floating in one of the cesspools in the slum.

'Slumdog' author Swarup does 30 media interviews in two days

2009-01-15T13:55:00.002+05:30

Indian diplomat and author Vikas Swarup has done at least 30 interviews in just two days in Britain after the runaway success of "Slumdog Millionaire", the film based on his novel.

“This is just crazy. I am completely overwhelmed. I know now exactly what it means to take part in a media circus,” Swarup, Indian Deputy High Commissioner to South Africa, told IANS Wednesday.

Since arriving in London, Swarup has been inundated with calls from around the world, especially after the movie swept four awards at the Golden Globe in the US this week.

The author of "Q and A", which has been translated into 36 languages, has been interviewed by every major British newspaper, as well television and radio channel, including a large number of regional radio stations.

“It was supposed to have been a fairly easy-paced programme, but since the Golden Globe awards, the phone just hasn't stopped ringing. I'm getting calls from all over the world with requests for interviews,” said Swarup.

Although flattered by the attention, the diplomat scotched one little rumour that has reportedly been doing the rounds in India.

“I'm not a dollar millionaire! Nowhere near it,” said Swarup.

“People have an exaggerated notion of things and tend to confuse the world of films with that of books,” he said.

“While the book has done well, I'm not exactly in the league of ["Harry Potter" author] J.K. Rowling, you know,” he added.

'Taare Zameen Par' out of Oscars race

2009-01-15T13:55:00.001+05:30

Aamir Khan's directorial debut “Taare Zameen Par” failed to make it to the short-list in the Foreign Language Film category of the Oscar nominations for the 81st Annual Academy Awards 2009.

The Oscar selection committee announced Tuesday a list of nine movies out of which five will make into the final competition out of a total of 65 entries with each country choosing one film.

According to a press statement released on Oscars' official website: “Waltz with Bashir” (Israel), “3 Monkeys” (Turkey), “Revanche” (Austria), “The Necessities of Life” (Canada), “The Baader Meinhof Complex” (Germany), “Departures” (Japan), “Tear This Heart Out” (Mexico), “Everlasting Moments” (Sweden) and “The Class” (France) have made it to the second round.

The five nominees will be announced Jan 22.

Earlier, Aamir missed an Oscar opportunity when Ashutosh Gowariker-directed “Lagaan” made it to the nominations in the foreign language nominations, but failed to bag the award.

Priyanka justifies her first kiss

2009-01-15T13:51:00.000+05:30

Priyanka Chopra and Shahid Kapur's first kiss (o-n-s-c-r-e-e-n!) for the film 'Kaminey' has been the talk of the town for sometime now. While she shed all her inhibitions for 'Fashion' and all (well, almost) her cloths in 'Dostana', this is the first time ever that Ms Chopra has performed a full-fledged kissing scene for any film. When we caught up with Priyanka recently, we wondered aloud how her 'Kaminey' director, Vishal Bharadwaj, could convince her for the lip-lock and some real steamy scenes.

"I can't really give you all the details, but yes I have done a little bit more than usual in this film. I do have a kiss scene and a few lovemaking scenes with Shahid. Well, this was the demand of the script. So I agreed to do it," admitted Priyanka matter-of-factly.

Surprising that Priyanka, who had asked director Madhur Bhandarkar not to go overboard with her lovemaking scenes with Arbaaz Khan in 'Fashion' and had refrained from any mushy, intimate scenes with real life beau Hurman Baweja in 'Love Story 2050', has actually bent her rules for Shahid.

We couldn't resist, but ask why such a (step) 'brotherly' treatment even to Hurman. The query got Priyanka completely cheesed off. She shot back, "Please, I never like to discuss any of my personal matters. You better ask me something else. I think you should respect each one's personal life."

So we veered back to Vishal and the film and the actress resumed the talk. "Although Vishal is known as a serious filmmaker, it was great working with him. I think the story justifies whatever has been shot. I am not in the least upset about it," signed off the gutsy actress. From bold to sober to being bold again in her films, looks like someone has taken the number game quite seriously.

Amitabh blasts 'Slumdog Millionaire' on blog

2009-01-15T13:50:00.000+05:30

Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan has slammed Danny Boyle's Golden Globe award winning underdog drama 'Slumdog Millionaire' for showing India in poor light.

'If 'Slumdog Millionaire' projects India as Third World dirty underbelly developing nation and causes pain and disgust among nationalists and patriots, let it be known that a murky underbelly exists and thrives even in the most developed nations,' Amitabh said in a posting on his blog www.bigb.bigadda.com Wednesday from Paris, France.

'Its just that the 'Slumdog Millioanire' idea authored by an Indian and conceived and cinematically put together by a westerner, gets creative global recognition,' he added.

The 66-year-old also talked about the changing trend in recognition of Indian cinema.

'The commercial escapist world of Indian cinema had vociferously battled for years, on the attention paid and the adulation given to the legendary Satyajit Ray... and not a word of appreciation for the entertaining mass-oriented box office blockbusters that were being churned out from Mumbai.

'Ray portrayed reality. While, the other - escapism, fantasy and incredulous posturing. Unimpressive for Cannes and Berlin and Venice (film festivals),' he explained.

He further wrote: 'But look how rapidly all that is changing. Dedicated TV channels running Hindi cinema on prime timings. Premieres at Leicester Square (referring to 'Chandni Chowk To China'), the home of all Hollywood royalty, thronged by hundreds on the street in cold biting weather.'

Indo Asian News Service.

Jiah Khan in new PETA ad Photo

2009-01-14T13:02:00.000+05:30

Actress Jiah Khan is supporting what some might consider a slightly unusual cause - she wants a ban on glass-coated manja (string) used for kite flying to avoid hurting birds.

"Glass-coated manja (string) is a public health hazard and causes an excruciating death for birds. We're asking participants of kite flying competitions to immediately stop using it and to conduct their sport in a way that isn't deadly to humans and wildlife," Jiah said in a press statement.

Jiah will be seen in a People For the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) ad, dressed as a wounded bird wrapped in kite string. The tagline of the ad is "Cut the glass-coated manja (string), not birds' wings".

Ace photographer Farrokh Chothia shot the ad and its release coincides with the festival of Makar Sankranti, when kites are traditionally flown.

British born Jiah debuted in Bollywood with Ram Gopal Varma's controversial movie "Nishabd" opposite megastar Amitabh Bachchan. Recently, she shared screen space with Aamir Khan in the hit film "Ghajini".

Other celebrities who have been part of PETA campaigns are John Abraham, Gulshan Grover, Rahul Khanna, Yana Gupta, Rakhi Sawant and many more.

No Chinese premiere for 'Chandni Chowk To China

2009-01-14T13:01:00.000+05:30

There was an impressive line up of Hollywood personalities at the Los Angeles premiere of Nikhil Advani's “Chandni Chowk To China”, but the much-expected premiere of the action comedy starring Akshay Kumar and Deepika Padukone in China has not materialised.

Apparently the Chinese government has not given permission to release the movie, which was extensively shot there.

"What can I say? China only allows 20 international films to be released every year. Anyway, the film will be out on pirated DVDs in China so the people there will see how much we've done to honour the country," Advani told IANS.

Interestingly, Advani saw his own film for the first time on Tuesday.

"I've to say at two hours 32 minutes it's much shorter than my last film 'Salaam-e-Ishq'. In fact, after I saw the film I edited out three minutes of playing time," said the director.

John Landis, Rob Cohen and McG, who has just finished “Terminator 4”, were some of the topnotch Hollywood directors who turned up for the Los Angeles premiere of “Chandni Chowk To China” Wednesday night at the posh Steve J. Ross theatre right inside the Warner Brother premises.

Before he jetted off with his cast to New York for the next premiere, Advani said: "We couldn't stay for the LA premiere for more than 35 minutes because we had to leave for the New York premiere. But I could see the audience which included directors John Landis, Rob Cohen and McG plus top brass from Warner Brothers were laughing at the right places and for the right reason and in an emotional scene they all went silent."

"We didn't know what the exact turn-out at the LA premiere was going to be. The RSVPs kept coming till the last hour. Over here the biggest of stars let you know if they aren't coming. It's Warner Brothers' prestigious Bollywood product and they're releasing it on a par with any Hollywood film with 50 prints in the US," said Advani.

After the LA premiere the cast and director attended the New York premiere Thursday, followed by the Toronto premiere Friday.

"We then proceed to London on Jan 10. On Jan 12 is the London premiere at the Empire Theater at Leicester Square," said Advani.

And Akshay's best friend, Toronto-based tycoon Ajay Virmani, lent his luxury 17-seater jet to his friend and his team of “Chandni Chowk To China” for their whirlwind four-city premieres in North America.

Apparently, Akshay was overwhelmed by his friend's gesture.

"I really don't want to say much on this. But yes, Akshay did get very emotional when he saw what I had done to my jet. I think 'Chandni Chowk To China' is a very special film and lending one of my jets for the purpose is a very small token of my happiness.

“Out here in Toronto where I've my main business the film is so strong. People have been constantly calling to ask for passes to the premiere. I've been with Akshay from the time he was the 'Khiladi'. I'm very proud of him," said Virmani.

The 17-seater jet, which is part of Virmani's 30-plus fleet of private aircrafts, is a luxury aircraft meant for long-distance travel.

After the film's Indian release Advani will go to Hong Kong and Dubai for the screening there.

Shilpa Shetty to star in India-China film

2009-01-14T12:59:00.000+05:30

Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty has been roped in to star in an India-China joint film venture.

Tentatively titled "The Desire", the film will show Shilpa rubbing shoulders with Chinese superstar Xia Yu, who is considered the Shah Rukh Khan of China.

The film is being co-produced by Sharad Hegde and Tracy Shiyun and directed by R. Sarath.

"It is a very prestigious project for us. We have tried to go beyond the boundary of land as well as shackled emotions in the film. It deals with the sensibilities of creative people in the most sensitive manner," said Hegde in a statement released here Friday.

"The Desire" revolves around Goutami (Shilpa), an accomplished Odissi dancer and a talented artist Jai Leang (Yu) and follows the journey of their respective lives until they are separated and brought together again by destiny.

With a background score from Indian music maestro A.R. Rahman, other actors in the film include Jayaprada, Anupam Kher, Sachin Khedekar, Sheetal Menon and Nakul Vaid, apart from Shilpa and Yu in the lead.

Sarath, who is working with Shilpa for the first time is gaga over the actress and thinks her to be the "perfect" choice for the role.

"'The Desire' is a passionate film mainly dealing with dance, music, art, culture and emotions and Shilpa is perfect for the role as she is talented, beautiful and a very graceful dancer. She completely fits the role," Sarath said.

The film goes on floors Jan 11 in Kerala.

However, Yu is not the first Chinese actor to star alongside a Bollywood actor.

Gordon Liu, veteran Chinese martial arts film actor, will be seen in Nikhil Advani's much-awaited action comedy venture "Chandni Chowk To China" releasing Jan 16.

'Chandni Chowk...' set to make largest Bollywood splash in US

2009-01-14T12:06:00.001+05:30

Warner Bros' first Bollywood production "Chandni Chowk to China" makes the largest-ever opening of any Bollywood film in US and Canada Jan 16 with its release on more than 125 screens in over 50 markets.

In addition, the Akshay Kumar starrer will also be released in 40 international markets, opening day-and-date with North America in 25 markets, according to Dan Fellman, President of Domestic Distribution, Warner Bros. Pictures. The other markets will open the film in the weeks ahead.

The first-ever Bollywood kung fu comedy, "Chandni Chowk to China" follows one man's passage from simple cook to kung fu fighter, on a thrilling, madcap journey from the by-lanes of Chandni Chowk in Delhi to the grandeur of the Great Wall of China and beyond.

At a press conference in New York Thursday to mark the premiere of the film in the US, Akshay Kumar described "Chandni Chowk..." as a "pure Bollywood story".

"If you are fans of Manmohan Desai, this is that kind of a film," he said. "I am anxiously waiting to go back to India and show the film to my son. My grandmother is also waiting to see the film. So it's a film for all ages."

Akshay was joined at the press conference by his 22-year old co-star Deepika Padukone and director Nikhil Advani.

Padukone plays a double role in the film - Sakhi, an Indian woman, and Meow Meow, a Chinese woman, who is also a martial arts expert.

Padukone spent six months training in martial arts. "It was a tough experience, but when Nikhil described the character to me I knew I had to learn martial arts," she said.

Akshay was all praise for the young co star. "If you watch how she kicks in the film, it's hard to believe that she learnt martial arts just a few months ago," he said.

"I'm really lucky to have worked with Akshay," Padukone said. "I grew up watching his films."

Director Nikhil Advani of "Kal Ho Na Ho" fame said "Chandni Chowk to China" will also open in nearly 80 theatres in Britain - another record for a Bollywood film.

"We got a huge level of support from Warner Bros," Advani said. "They made it possible for us to shoot at the Great Wall of China, which is a first for a Bollywood film. And they were so professional to work with."

The film also features stunts choreographed by veteran martial arts stunt coordinator Huen Chiu-Ku, whose credits include "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon", "Kill Bill: Vols. 1 and 2" and "The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor".

After the press conference at Manhattan's Essex Hotel, Akshay Kumar stepped out on Central Park South, followed by a huge entourage of photographers and television camera crew.

He stood by a yellow taxicab parked outside the hotel waving and posing for pictures. Then suddenly the actor stepped up, and the next thing he was standing on top of the cab, smiling, with his fist in the air, reminiscent of his "Singh is Kinng" character.

Wet Bollywood Beauties

2009-01-14T11:20:00.001+05:30

Rehman's Golden Globe win Congralutes Bollywood

2009-01-14T10:46:00.002+05:30

The whole of Bollywood, including the Bachchans, Gulzar and Javed Akhtar, have reacted with joy to A.R. Rahman winning the coveted Golden Globe awards for his musical score 'Jai Ho' in 'Slumdog Millionaire' and they feel this is just the beginning for many more international awards to come for the talented composer.

Aishwarya Rai: This is absolutely fantastic news. Superb in the superlative. Heartiest congratulations to Rahman. He's truly blessed. An incredible talent, a wonderful soul and has always been and will be the pride of our country.

Pritam Chakraborty: Wow! I was kind of expecting this. Congratulations to him. It's a proud moment for any Indian specially the music fraternity. I pray that it's just the beginning for him.'

Amitabh Bachchan: Congratulations. A reward most deserving.

Abhishek Bachchan: What a glorious moment for him. He continues to make us proud. I'm very lucky to have worked with him in 'Yuva', 'Guru' and 'Delhi 6'. My congratulations to him.

Gulzar: It's the horse that has won the race. The one riding the horse was Rahman. My lyrics for 'Jai Ho' were just the lagaam (rein) for the horse. Rahman has always been a clutter-breaker. He broke the antara-mukhda-antara (stanza-intro-stanza) mould in Hindi film songs. Now he has broken into the international arena. I'm working with him on the new Mani Ratnam project 'Ravan'. As always it's a pleasure. All I can say for Rahman is, 'Jai ho'.

Bappi Lahiri: It's a great honour for Bollywood. We're all proud of Rahman. God bless him.

Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra: I guess on the way to the Oscars he has picked up a Golden Globe. The best thing about his music in 'Slumdog Millionaire' is that his work in the film is so revolutionary and potent, he made the jury's job easier. God bless Rahman for bringing India back on the cultural world-map. This will pave the way for bigger things from him and from our country.

Javed Akhtar: I'm thrilled, happy and proud, but not at all surprised. It's inevitable for a genius like Rahman to get international acclaim.

Shekhar Ravjiani: Rahman is a genius. The music of 'Slumdog Millionaire' is outstanding. It deserves every award on this planet. I'm extremely happy for him.

Udit Narayan: I've had the pleasure of working with Rahman many times. In fact, I had sung for 'Lagaan' that had his music. He's a fine human being and composer. I always say good things happen to good people. This honour that he has brought to the country proves it. Today when I have cut down on my singing, but he's one of the composers I'd want to sing for even if I would stop singing.

Ashutosh Gowariker: Rahman and I have worked together in 'Lagaan' and 'Swades'. We're now doing 'What's Your Raashee'. In one word he is fantastic! He's a trailblazer. I'm so very proud of him and too thrilled. And his speech at the Golden Globe ceremony was superb, short, sweet and full of gratitude for his fans. Wow! I'll exhale only when I meet him.

Sunidhi Chauhan: When I heard Rahman saab had won a Golden Globe, it didn't register for a while. It took me time to understand what he has done. I'm too too happy to say anything. I haven't sung too many songs from him. Recently, I sang a Hindi song for him in an English-language film. Singing a Rahman composition is a privilege. I'm glad the West is realising his worth.

Shreya Ghosal: I'm extremely happy and thrilled to hear this. It's a huge achievement. I'm very proud of Rahman sir. This is just the beginning for him.

Farhan Akhtar: I'm very happy for him. The recognition is truly deserved. Congratulations to Rahman and Danny Boyle.

Vishal Bharadwaj: Things just won't stop here for Rahman. The genius shall now bring an Oscar for us.

Bipasha Basu: He's an absolute genius. He deserves every award. And the applause he's getting globally is richly deserved. I feel immense pride.

Anand Raj Anand: He deserves it. He's the only music director who got opportunities to work with big banners and super talented directors. I wish him many many more achievements.

Sameer Anjaan: It's a proud moment for every Indian. I'm lucky to have worked with him. He deserves much more.

Himesh Reshammiya: He deserves it. He's my favourite.

Kunal Ganjawala: This is just the beginning of many more international awards to come for Rahman.

Source: Indoasian news

Priyanka’s intimate love and kissing scenes with Shahid

2009-01-13T12:43:00.000+05:30

Priyanka Chopra is now busy with her new film of Vishal Bharadwaj. Priyanka has high regard for Vishal’s work and is elated to be working in his film. The film is titled ’Kaminay’.

Priyanka Chopra is doing a couple of kissing scenes in the film. Shahid Kapoor is the hero. Vishal was able to convince Priyanka to do the kissing scenes as well as some intimate love making scenes.

Priyanka had in the past refused to do intimate and kissing scenes in Love Story 2050 and Madhur Bhandarkar’s Fashion. So it is surprising that she is now doing them in Kaminay.

Priyanka’s fans are eagerly awaiting the completion of her new film. Keep glued in for more on the film and Priyanka Chopra.

Namitha - The Most Googled Actress of The South

2009-01-13T12:18:00.002+05:30

Sexy Namitha (aka Namitha Vankawala) has emerged as the topmost south Indian actress in Google's 2008 India's Top Searches on Mobile list. She beat down her competitors like Shriya Saran, Trisha and Nayanthara who are also quite popular in the south, but apparently don't expose as much as Namitha does on and off screen. In Google's top search list, only two Indian actresses are listed – Katrina Kaif at number six and Namitha at number 9.

The hottie Namitha had won the Miss Surat crown in 2000. She stood fourth in the Miss India Competition in 2001, the same year when Celina Jaitley won the crown. Instead of trying her luck in Bollywood, Namitha migrated to the south. She has acted in Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam films and is famous for her daring s-exposure in all of them. Her only Bollywood film till date has been an adult comedy Love Ke Chakkar Mein (2006), also starring Rishi Kapoor.

'Indians aren't Bollywood-centric"

2009-01-13T12:15:00.002+05:30

Upcoming Bangalore based Hindi band Swarathma feels that people in India are not Bollywood-centric in their music tastes and are 'open to good and new music'.

'I don't think that people in India are Bollywood-centric. In fact, I believe that now people have become more open to good and new music. It doesn't matter whether the song is part of a film or by a band. They just want to listen to good sounds,' said Jishnu Dasgupta, bass guitarist of the band.

Swarathma was the winner of Radio City 91.1 FM's RC Live - from amongst 125 bands. The competition took place last year. They were recently in the capital to launch their album.

By winning the competition, the band bagged an album contract from EMI backed by Radio City 91.1 FM. The album has been produced by Amit Kilam from the band Indian Ocean.

'As a drummer, working with Amit Kilam was very enriching,' said Montry Manuel who is on drums and percussions.

'He helped us a lot and took our music to another level,' he added.

It is said that the interference of music companies often force artistes to compromise on their individual styles but members of Swarathma feel otherwise.

'When we were recording the songs, creative inputs came only from the band members. EMI music broke the myth of labels being creatively confining and interfering. They just told us to go in and do our best,' Dasgupta said.

The band doesn't want to confine their music to a particular genre that contains interplay of different influences including folk, Carnatic, classical, rock, blues and jazz in their songs and said that creating music for their album was the most enriching experience ever.

The band members comprise of Manuel, Dasgupta, Vasu Dixit (lead vocals, Rhythm guitar), Pavan Kumar (percussions, Backing vocals), Sanjeev Nayak (Violins) and Varun (Lead guitar).

Source:Indioasian News

Kareena Kapoor declines international endorsement offer

2009-01-13T12:15:00.001+05:30

Bollywood actor Kareena Kapoor, who is fast turning into an advertisers' delight, has declined to endorse an international cosmetic brand because her hands are full.

'The international brand is a trademark to reckon with. Any other actress in Kareena's place would have jumped at it,' said a source who refused to reveal the name of the brand.

'Kareena is endorsing brands like Anne French, Globus, Lux, Boroplus, Vivel and Kurkure and clients are very happy with her. Their product sales have shown a rise so it is obvious that they want Kareena to continue to endorse their products,' added the source.

Shah Rukh's craze for video games

2009-01-13T12:14:00.000+05:30

Shah Rukh Khan loves video games so much that he has built an entire floor for gaming gadgets in his house.

The superstar revealed it on NDTV Imagine's talk show 'Oye! It's Friday!', which is being hosted by filmmaker-actor Farhan Akhtar.

'He also spoke of his favourite video game - soccer - and said he is best at it,' said a source from the channel.

'Shah Rukh also said that he used to compete with Farhan in the soccer video games when they were shooting for 'Don: The Chase Begins',' added the source.

The episode will air Friday at 10 p.m.

Tusshar Kapoor sports a moustache

2009-01-13T12:13:00.000+05:30

Tusshar Kapoor is following in the footsteps of Shah Rukh Khan. While the superstar was seen with a moustache in his recent hit 'Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi', Tusshar sports one in his forthcoming film 'Life Partner'.

'I am playing a married man for the first time. My character of a Gujarati NRI requires me to sport a moustache,' said Tusshar.

'I've been paired opposite Prachi Desai who is a Gujarati. She was a huge help in terms of learning the acts and behaviour required for my character. She also helped me a lot in speaking the language with the proper accent,' he added.

The film is Abbas-Mustan's first production, which is being directed by Rumi Jafry.

Interview : Asin

2009-01-13T12:08:00.000+05:30

Aamir Khan's perfectionist attitude often sends jitters down his co-stars' spines. But southern beauty Asin, who is set to make her Bollywood debut with Aamir in 'Ghajini', says she had no issues matching up to the superstar as she too always settles for nothing but the best.

'People often call Aamir a perfectionist and a tough taskmaster, but I didn't have any problem matching up to him because I'm also quite a workaholic. We gelled quite well as far as the demand of perfection was concerned. Even I like things to be the best,' Asin told IANS over telephone from Mumbai.

Just like any other girl her age, 23-year-old Asin has been a huge Aamir fan.

'I have always admired Aamir and have enjoyed his movies 'Lagaan' and 'Dil Chahta Hai' and also loved 'Taare Zameen Par'. I have danced a lot on 'Dil Chahta Hai' songs with my friends,' she said.

After working with the superstar, she says he is unlike what the media and industry project him to be.

'Shooting with Aamir was great fun. He isn't as serious as he is projected to be. He is highly dedicated to his work but is very cool and easy to work with. He's a simple person, very genuine and frank about his opinions despite having such a good stature in Bollywood,' said Asin.

The actress, who was brought up in Kerala and debuted in Sathyan Anthikad's Malayalam film 'Narendra Makan Jayakanthan Vaka' in 2001, also starred in the Tamil version of 'Ghajini' released in 2005. It was in this film that she received her second South Filmfare Award for best actress.

Asin has been kept away from the promotions of the Hindi remake thanks to Aamir's knack for keeping his cast away from the media prior to the release. But she is nonchalant.

'I have not felt overshadowed by Aamir's publicity at all. Actually, I'm not used to all this really because we don't have it in the south film industry. The marketing team for 'Ghajini' has its strategy to promote the film in the right manner. If Aamir is promoting the film in the north, I am doing it in the south,' she said.

Besides, Asin believes publicity is something that would only bring people to the theatres. Liking or not liking the film is in the viewers' hands, she said.

According to her, though audiences down south have already seen and appreciated the original 'Ghajini', they would surely revisit theatres for Aamir's charm.

'Aamir has got a huge fan following and he is the highlight of the film. In fact, since a lot of people down south have seen the Tamil version of the film, they will now probably come to theatres just to watch Aamir.

'I have no issues about that as 'Ghajini' is the story of Sanjay Singhania, played by Aamir. So the fact that his presence is being highlighted is completely justified,' said Asin.

As of now, the actress is 'excited but anxious' of how her 'new audience' will react to her performance when 'Ghajini' hits theatres worldwide.

Her next Bollywood release after 'Ghajini' would be Vipul Shah's 'London Dreams' in which she stars alongside Salman Khan and Ajay Devgan. She is also a part of Walt Disney's multi-lingual project '19 Steps' and would be sharing screen space with south Indian superstar Kamal Haasan and Japanese actor Tadanobu Asano.

Source: Indo Asian News Service

`Ghajini` outstrips ‘DDLJ’

2009-01-10T14:56:00.000+05:30

Aamir Khan starrer "Ghajini", which released to packed houses December 25, is on its way to create history by taking over the mantle of the biggest domestic earner so far, leaving behind "Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge".

"Ghajini", a romantic action thriller that explores the life of a rich businessman who suffers from short-term memory loss following a violent incident, has earned Rs2 billion (USD41 million) in less than two weeks from its release.

The film has grossed Rs1.62 billion in domestic markets and Rs390 million have come from overseas markets till end of second week. The film is still running to packed houses and may cross more milestones.

"Ghajini", a film that introduced Asin to Hindi cinema opposite superstar Aamir, was released with 1,200 prints in the domestic market and in a lot of small towns where films are not often released in the first week.

In the overseas market, it is now second only to Karan Johar`s hit film "Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham" which collected Rs440 million.

Kajol Covers M- Magazine - Picture

2009-01-09T23:15:00.000+05:30

After Priyanka Chopra and Tabu, Now it’s Kajol’s turn to appear on the cover of M, a lifestyle and luxury magazine for men.

She will be seen on the cover of M Magazine’s January 2009 edition.

The Hot Indian Collection

2009-01-09T23:13:00.000+05:30

Sexy Wallpapers Katrina Kaif - Collection

2009-01-09T23:01:00.001+05:30

My Lips are Reserved - Sneha Ullal

2009-01-09T22:59:00.000+05:30

Sneha Ullal, better known as the look-alike of the pretty Aishwarya Rai is back with a bang after a long period of hibernation after Aryan with the film Kaash Mere Hote.

When I met her for this interview in the suburbs, Sneha categorically stated that it was a conscious decision on her part to let acting take a back seat after Aryan because she felt that she was too young and wanted to be mature enough to take her plunge in films. "I did not even know how to talk to the media."

Sneha hastens to add that the reason that she decided to take up the offer to act in Kaash Mere Hote is that she desperately needed to act in a Hindi film to show that she is interested in working and is back in films.

In fact Sneha has absolutely no qualms to confess that the film is a vehicle to launch Kumar Saahil and Sana and music director Shrawan who has produced the film wanted her to be a part of the project because he felt that she would be able to lend the film a better face value.

"I am confident that my role in Kaash Mere Hote will take me to greater heights as an actress. I play the role of Radhika in Kaas Mere Hote.I play the role of Saahil's girl friend who is bothered by Sana who keeps on trying to seduce Kumar Saahil. The character that I play in the film is like me-easy going and simple and straight forward and hence I did not need to prepare at all for the role of Radhika," Sneha quips.

Sneha confesses that though personally she does not feel bad when she is compared to Aishwarya professionally she does not like the comparison. "Though I like it personally because she is beautiful, it is unfair to me professionally.I feel that had I made my bow without Salman Khan in a film, other than Lucky, I would not have been compared to her. The comparison did not help me as an actor though I should admit that it gave me a lot of recognition".

Sneha asserts that she worships work and does not regret at all having appeared in Aryan opposite Sohail Khan after having made her debut with Lucky opposite Salman Khan, though she concedes that she does not think that she should have got launched with Lucky because she was very young at that time. To add to my woes, a lot of directors have an issue with my voice not at all reeling that my voice in Lucky was projected that way to make me sound like a kid to suit my role in Lucky."

Besides Kaash Aap, Sneha has also films like Click, Dard E Disco and Green Park up her sleeves besides her films in the South."Sangeet Sivan called me up and offered to cast me in Click opposite Shreyas Talpade. It is a very interesting role that I play in Click. I play Shreyas's friend who is raped by his friends. I kill myself and come back as a ghost to take revenge on the rapists".

In Ashok Tyagi's Dard E Disco, Sneha has been cast opposite Akshay Kapoor. "I play the character of a bubbly young ad glamorous girl. The film has offered me an opportunity to tell every one in Bollywood that I am no longer a kid that I was in films like Lucy and Aryan"Sneha is quite excited about her role in Green Park too. "I love my role in Green Park because I love talking in English and it is a film in English with Anupam Kher playing the role of my father.

I play a very modern young girl belonging to a very Westernized family settled in USA, who falls in love with an American. The film was meant to start in 2009. We have shot just the climax of the film in Goa and I am looking forward to shoot the rest of the film in the USA next year".

Sneha is practical when it comes to exposing herself. I am ready to expose as long as I look sexy and not vulgar. In my second film, I showed nothing but my mid-riff but yet I was shown at my glamorous best in the film. I am game as far as wearing swimming costume is concerned but n bikini for me, please."

Sneha has drawn a line as far as kissing is concerned. "Though I am now single and ready to mingle, I am not a prude but I am not game at all for kissing lip to lip in films, because I feel that you should save some thing for the bedroom.I am an animal lover and hence promote vegetarianism and hence want my man also to be a vegetarian. I do not care about his physique but he should be presentable and quite understanding and not be a male chauvinist."

The Qualities of a Man

2009-01-09T22:54:00.000+05:30

What qualities must a man have to catch Katrina Kaif’s eye? Definitely more than just brawns! Good looks and six pack abs can impress Katrina Kaif only to some extent, but no further. What can, however, win her heart is a man’s intrinsic kindness and good nature.

While speaking to an Indian daily, Katrina disclosed: "What a girl looks for in a man are not his six-packs, his looks, or his age difference - it's just his kindness and his charm that win women over." Katrina, who is 24 now, is in a steady relationship with Salman Khan , who is 43 and an avid body builder. He has inspired many stars of Gen Next to hit the gym and develop muscular body.

But more than Salman’s penchant for pumping iron, it’s his good nature that has won the gorgeous lady.Katrina, who is always eloquent with words, candidly accepted that Salman has a heart of gold.As for a man’s brawns, she diplomatically admitted that today every hero has good body and all of them look good because it’s the requirement of their job, even though it is hard to maintain a good body for long.

She also mentioned that Akshay Kumar is her favourite co-star and he has the “finest lean” tough body in B-Town. She even admired Aamir Khan for his newly acquired beefcake for Ghajini .Yet none for Katrina manages to match the charm of Salman.

Pyar Impossible for Priyanka

2009-01-09T22:49:00.001+05:30

Priyanka Chopra is set to romance two failed heroes of Bollywood in a movie called Pyaar Impossible . Quite an apt title, actually.A Yashraj Films project, the movie is basically viewed as the production house’s bid to re-launch Uday Chopra.

The Chopra scion. Barring the second fiddle roles in Dhoom and Dhoom 2 , Uday has pretty much been a flop hero with his films like Neal 'N' Nikki taking severe beating at the box-office.

And if Uday’s presence was not enough, another struggling actor, Dino Morea – who has struggled ever since one can remember has reportedly been roped in for the project.It’s the films film with YRF for both Priyanka and Dino. The duo were last seen together in Dharmesh Darshan’s Aap Ki Khatir .Here also Dino is going to play her love interest.

‘Pyaar Impossible’ is said to be inspired from superhit Hollywood movie ‘Notting Hill’ which starred Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant in the lead. But don’t think that Dino is going to play the role of Hugh Grant, a humble bookshop owner. It’s Uday who gets to play that role. After all, he’s a Chopra, you see!The movie is set to roll in February this year. It’s still not clear who will direct it.
Well, we root for Aditya Chopra .

Deepika and Ranbir's Love a Memory

2009-01-09T22:46:00.000+05:30

Has Deepika and Ranbir Kappor love become a thing of past? Yes it seems that the two new stars on the horizons have split from a year long relationship. This much be a sad news for the admirers of the new kids on Bollywood horizon.

Their break up looks unfortunate. The two till just sometimes ago had been saying that the two were inseparable. And everyone believed them, despite Deepika being linked up to many people including Indian cricket captain MS Dhoni in the past.

While heaping praise on Deepika, Ranbir sometimes ago had said, “We have been dating for the past couple of weeks. “She has simple needs, she is caring. And she respects her family. I really like that”. He went on to add, “She has achieved so much in so little time. I am so happy to be part of her life.

Deepika too was all is love with Ranbir going to town claiming that she was deeply in love with the star of Sawariya. But these things seem a thing of past now, and Deepika who debuted with Shah Rukh Khan’s Om Shanti Om having found a new soulmate.

Recently Deepika Padukone was spotted with another man while Ranbir Kapoor was out of town for a film shoot. Deepika Padukone was seen watching the film, Ghajini at a suburban multiplex with another guy. Suspicions arose when the film got over and the two hurriedly got into their car and drove away to avoid public glare.

Deepika after pursuing a successful career in modeling branched out into acting. She started by starring in the music video for the song Naam Hai Tera from the independent pop album Aap Kaa Surroor by Himesh Reshammiya.

Prediction For 2009

2008-12-27T15:39:00.001+05:30

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Numerologist Sanjay B Jumaani predicts what 2009 holds for our top Bollywood stars and how their movies will work at the box-office.Check what he has to say about them:

Shah Rukh Khan
The Badshah of Bollywood may not have a great year health-wise. He’s in his 44th year, which adds up to 8, representing Saturn (Shani). Unfortunately, it doesn’t augur well for King Khan as 8 has not worked well for him in the past.

Hrithik Roshan
Hrithik is in his 35th year and will soon be 36. However, 9 is not one of his best numbers. In fact, 9 of Mars can make a person impulsive and accident-prone, so he better watch out instead of playing superhero! A very potent combination rules him, so he should avoid multi-starrers and take up work that has him in the lead. He and his father should make more films together as all their three films were huge hits.

Salman Khan
He is governed by number 9, the fiery Mars (Mangal), the planet of energy, which makes a person impetuous, accident-prone, stubborn and inflexible. His comeback vehicles – Tere Naam and Partner – add up to 9. His girlfriend Katrina’s destiny number is 9. She’s a water sign (Cancerian) and he’s an Earth sign, and these signs usually go well together. So, he should lie low this year as he could be subject to defamation, scandal and false accusations. In 2010, he’ll be 45, one of his best years, and marriage could be on the cards. But if he marries Katrina, she should brace against his fiery outbursts.

Saif Ali Khan
Saif is in his 39th year, adding to 3, which is Jupiter, planet of wealth. Though his girlfriend Kareena (a number 3) hasn’t married him yet, Saif can still expect to have a fortunate year, especially after his 40th birthday as 4 is one of his luckier numbers.

Akshay Kumar
The Khiladi will remain in his 42nd year till September 9 next year and it will be an eventful year. His name as well as the year 2008 adds to 28, which was also why it was so good for him. Chandni Chowk To China is expected to do well too, along with 8+10, which gives us 9 again.

Abhishek Bachchan
Junior AB is currently in his 33rd year and 6 is among his favoured numbers. However, on February 5, he’ll enter his 34th year (7), which is neither good nor bad for him. Delhi 6 is spelt so instead of Dilli 6 on our behest and adds to 6 too, so it should do him well. We’d always maintained that ABCL won’t do well under Big B as his numbers are not conducive to business; however, it stands a better chance under Abhishek.

Katrina Kaif
Katrina is a number 7, ruled by Neptune and the Moon, planets that endow imagination and creativity. She is doubly influenced by these planets as they govern Cancerians. The flipside is they can make her restless and moody. She’s now in her 25th year (7). So, this could be one of her best years.

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan
Her name adds to 50 or 5, which is the same as AB Baby’s. So, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that she rules him! In Mani Ratnam’s Raavan, she can expect to get rave reviews, and maybe even outdo Abhishek. She can make a good brand ambassador for India. After she turns 37, her entry into politics could also not be ruled out. Aishwarya should try to focus on doing foreign films; Hollywood is a good option too.

Ghajini Movie review

2008-12-27T15:35:00.000+05:30

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Ghajini is a very powerful film despite all its flaws. It is a powerpacked blend of a solid concept and script along with strong film-making and of course the knockout performance of Aamir Khan - the very USP of the film. So all you people out there if you have even an iota of doubt whether Aamir Khan is No. 1 in India… Watch Ghajini. He is unmatched in the film. He leads the league of extraordinary actors in India. I would even go on to say that he is the Robert Di Niro of India.

There are several flaws in the script and the film but you would be too busy in the riveting story of the film, gripped by the suspense and thrill to notice them.”This is a breathless, exciting story, heart-breaking and exhilarating at the same time,” confirms critic Taran Adarsh. The film has resemblance in concept with Christopher Nolan’s Momento only in terms of the short-term memory loss of the protagonist. But the refreshingly different story-telling of master mind director A.R Murugadoss is what makes all the difference. He rejects the linear mode of story-telling and adopts the flash-backs technique to keep the viewer on the edge of his seat and his eyes hooked on to the screen.

Cinematography and screenplay are just brilliant throughout the film. All the action scenes have been brilliantly written and executed and so are the songs. I loved the way Behka was picturized and Guzarish is brilliant too.

Now coming to the best part of the film - Aamir Khan’s performance. There aren’t many adjectives in my vocabulary to describe how brilliant Aamir Khan is through out the movie. Can’t believe he is our same old chocolate boy of Qayamat se Qayamat tak. He is one actor who emotes with his eyes and body language more than his dialogues. The pain on his face when he cant remember things during acute short-term memory loss, the anger on his face and the blood in his eyes as he takes on the baddies in the film. Many critics believe this is Aamir’s career-best performance as he plays both vulnerable and hard with elan.

Debutante Asin, is fresh. She looks beautiful on screen and does her bit with sincerity of a debutante although she is a big star down under in South India. She has a bright future in Bollywood. Jiah needs to add more effort on her dialogue delivery. She needs a better stylist too. Pradeep Rawat is brutally brilliant in his villanous role although it is a bit old fashioned in today’s time.

Just dont miss this film guys…Its a worth watch. I watched it for Aamir Khan more than anything else. It worked for me. A must-watch for all the Aamir Khan fans out there.
Rating: 4/5

Aishwarya Rai in Pink Panther

2008-12-24T17:02:00.001+05:30

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Dressed in a trench coat and metallic Christian Louboutin peep-toes, Aishwarya Rai films scenes for Pink Panther 2 in Paris on Monday.

Rai plays one of the detectives alongside Alfred Molina. The pair joins forces with French police detective Jacques Clouseau, played by Steve Martin, to catch the thief who has been stealing artifacts around the world.

During film breaks, Aishwarya, 33, hung around the set with hubby-of-four-months Abhishek Bachchan.

Slowly by surely, Rai is making her way through Hollywood. She has an even bigger role in her next film Singularity, a war drama co-starring Brendan Fraser.

2008-12-24T16:57:00.001+05:30

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Bollywood’s Glam doll Jiah Khan back in the news with recent magazine cover shoot. We seen her in this month Maxim photoshoot. Now she is seen on the cover of Femina “Whattowear” December 2008 Edition. “Whattowear” first comes in the light and it is distributed as complimentary along with Femina Magazine of the month.

Ten top songs of Bollywood

2008-12-24T16:54:00.001+05:30

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Top Ten Songs of this Week

1.Guzarish - Ghajini

2.Haule Haule - Rab Ne bana di jodi

3. Maa Da ladla Remix - Dostana

4. Sinbad the Sailor - Rock On

5. Tu hi meri dost hai - Yuvraaj

6. Chandni Chowk to C… - Chandni Chowk To …

7.Kuch Khaas - Fashion

8.Bachna Ae Haseeno - Bachna Ae haseeno

9.Maahi - Raaz

10.Nazrein milana - Jaane Tu Ya Jaane…

Anushaks Is Great

2008-12-24T16:47:00.000+05:30

Anushka Sharma made a dream debut opposite King Khan and has managed to impressed him as her co-star. Shahrukh Khan is mighty impressed with this young girl and this is what he had to say about her -

“Anushka in a certain way has helped me a lot with this film. I had to react to this girl who’s so fresh and different. So as an actor, I would say she has kept me on my toes and I think she has done a wonderful job.

I feel responsible for her career because she is starting off with me. I hope she does a fantastic job. She kept me on my toes, not just by virtue of being fresh and new, by being taller than me also.

I truly from the bottom of my heart pray for her and I hope this film does really good for her and she does some amazing amount of work, so we can feel proud that we started her career on celluloid,” said Shahrukh.

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Bikini tops for Priyanka, shorts for John!

2008-11-17T22:54:00.001+05:30

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Karan Johar's films have always been stylish, thanks to the ace designers he ropes in. And Dostana is no different. In fact, truth be told, the producer has outdone himself. The cast comprising of Priyanka Chopra, John Abraham and Abhishek Bachchan never looked so eye-poppingly good as they did in the promos doing the rounds.

And it is all thanks to designers Akki Narula and Manish Malhotra. Read on as they tell Nithya Ramani how they worked their magic. Excerpts: Priyanka's sexy look -Designer: Manish Malhotra -As the movie is based in Miami, a place full sun, surf and sand, we decided to go with the holiday look. Priyanka's character is a fashion editor, hence her clothes need to be stylish and chic.

When it comes to colours, Priyanka always prefers grey, black and white. But for Dostana, we decided to experiment with bright solid colours like the ones in the citrus family. Keeping her chic look in mind, we decided to tone down the accessories. You will notice that none of her dresses have any embroidery or designs either. All her outfits are mainly in satin, chiffon and georgette.

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'Gaddar' boy Neil to go behind bars!

2008-11-17T22:53:00.002+05:30

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The handsome 'Gaddar' of Bollywood Neil Nitin Mukesh will go behind the bars! No not because for any crime (as you must have thought so) but for research purpose. Apparently Neil who is all set to star in realistic filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar's forthcoming venture JAIL is planning to do some rummage around on prisoner's life and how the life looks from behind the bars.

And it was none other than our prolific filmmaker Madhur's idea to have some research done beforehand, who keeps a very realistic approach towards his films and prefers his actors also follow that. Madhur had reportedly asked Neil to watch some of the renowned Hollywood films set in prisons and very obediently Neil followed it. After going through various movies on prison life now the actor will soon visit some of the prisons to get a practical exposure of the same. Meanwhile all we can do is wait for this Gaddar to move in JAIL!

Priyanka Chopra's encounters with gays

2008-11-17T22:53:00.001+05:30

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Actress Priyanka Chopra is no doubt a beauty with brain. Many of her counterparts would back off projects that have gay characters but she seems to love working with them if her last two films are any indication..

Priyanka encountered with many gay characters in the recently released Fashion. Even Mugdha Godse, one of the female lead actors in the film, is married to a gay. As if that was not enough, Priyanka has to deal with gays in the film Dostana, which is releasing today.

The news is doing the rounds that lead actors John Abraham and Abhishek Bachchan are playing gay characters in Dostana produced by Karan Johar and directed by Tarun Mansukhani.

Kareena To Be Amrita's Bridesmaid

2008-11-17T22:52:00.003+05:30

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The buzz is that the 'Khan'daan hanger-on Amrita Arora is fed up being in the forever struggling mode (only doing movies with family and friends like Kareena) and is set to get married soon.

Close friends of the actress has claimed that this time it's for real and unlike the short term serial dating she did with the likes of Kamaal Khan, Ashmit Patel, Upen Patel and Usman Afzal.The object of Amu's affection is Hyderabadi businessman Shakeel Ladak this time round.

The big fat wedding is supposed to take place in March 2009 but she's not willing to confirm or deny the news. She maintains that she'll divulge things when everything is fine. Maybe she's getting superstitious and too possessive about the whole thing.

The word is that banquet halls are being hunted for. There is supposed to be a grand reception in Mumbai, while the marriage itself will be a beautiful church wedding in Goa – something that Amrita has always wanted.There is a strong chance that best friend Kareena is set to turn bridesmaid at the Goan do.This one is sure to be a true blue filmi shaadi!

Anil Kapoor is Oscar bound

2008-11-17T22:52:00.001+05:30

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Slumdog Millionare, a Hollywood production starring Anil Kapoor and Irrfan Khan, directed by Danny Boyle of Trainspotting fame is being touted as a possible contender for the Oscars next year. The film is based Indian diplomat Vikas Swarup's novel Q & A.

The movie has already won the people's choice awards at the Toronto Film Festival. Made with a modest budget of 15 million dollars, the film tells the gritty story of a slum dweller, who wins a TV game show - an indian version of Who Wants to be a Millionaire.

Actor Anil Kapoor plays the TV show's host and Dev Patel essays the role of the slum dweller. The movie also stars Irrfan Khan.Slumdog Millionare hits the screens internationally today.

Lara Dutta writes a script for herself

2008-11-17T22:51:00.004+05:30

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Not happy with uninspiring roles being offered by filmmakers these days, actress Lara Dutta has now written a script for herself!"What prompted me to write a script for myself? Scriptwriters in Bollywood aren't writing anything in depth for a woman. Invariably the scripts glorify the hero while the heroine is the love interest. And the women-oriented films are half-baked attempts at feminist statements. Both to me are uninspiring," Lara said.

So will she take to direction as well?"No I'm not ready to direct yet. And I can't wait to start my film. I've done two drafts. And I think it needs one more draft, then I'm ready," she said.But, interestingly, Lara hasn't written a woman-oriented film.

"It has equal space for the male and female protagonists. It's not one of those feminist, in-your-face women's films. The male lead will have a lot to contribute to my film.

The Kapoor 'Bahurani' Deepika Snubs Saif

2008-11-17T22:51:00.003+05:30

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We've heard of actors giving a limb for a role. But an eye? That's precisely what would have happened if she had tried to look any more Chinese for Chandni Chowk To China.

"I don't know how or why Nikhil Advani though of a South Indian with big round eyes to play Chinese. But he did cast me. I play a half-Chinese and half-Indian.. And to get my eyes to look less big and rounded and more slanted some special makeup artistes were brought in.

They suggested tapes to stick around my eyes."Deepika then consulted her doctors. "And they cut the idea down in time. My doctors said if I stick those tapes on my eyes for twelve hours a day the shape of my face would change forever and I'd end up looking Chinese for the rest of my life. So instead we got my makeup artiste Mallika Bhatt to do my eye makeup in such a way that my eyes looked slanted."

Kareena Kapoor hates Aishwarya Rai

2008-11-17T22:51:00.001+05:30

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Welcome to the mother of all tabloid hogging quotes - this one takes the cake, the cook, and the whole bakery.Waif Queen Kareena Kapoor let slip that she can't stand the sight, sound and the fragrance of Bollywood Queen Aishwarya Rai. Rowwrr! Who wants to see a cat fight?

So why is there no love lost between Kareena and Aishwarya? Now the first thought that flashes in the brain cortex is that Kareena didn't find it funny when Abhishek Bachchan broke her sister Karishma Kapoor's heart to begin with. And then along came Aishwarya Rai and became more famous than her. And then she went on to marry Abhishek! That (unmentionable)!And what do you know, Amitabh Bachchan and wifey Jaya Bhaduri Bachchan rubbed the large grains of salt in by mentioning that Karishma was NOT HOMELY ENOUGH for their likes. Ouch!

It doesn't help Kareena's temper that Aishwarya Rai is still the most beautiful woman in the world, and despite being older than Kareena, she is more popular, more bankable and arguably a better actress. And hold on to your eyeballs for this - Kareena Kapoor didn't turn down a role with Johnny Depp because of date problems, but because of Aishwarya Rai!What? How?? To answer that, here's an explanatory quote from from a source, "Three years ago, Gurinder Chadda who offered her this role, wanted Kareena for Bride & Prejudice.

Leaked: The Story of Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi

2008-11-11T14:26:00.000+05:30

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Aditya Chopra’s well guarded secret… the story of his forthcoming flick starring Shahrukh Khan and newcomer Anushka Sharma is finally out.Shahrukh Khan’s different look, that of an ordinary boring government employee has evoked quite some curiosity from people and now that the story is out, all curiosity will fizz out.

A source at the Yash Raj Films revealed on the condition of anonymity that RNBDJ is a romantic tale of an older man Shahrukh Khan his young teenage bride. The source says,

“There is a big age difference between them and they are not what you’d call a perfect couple. They are merely stretching their marriage with no real romance in between them. They are two very different people. There’s a reality dance show called Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi — which is the main backdrop of the movie. The show is on the lines of popular television show, Nach Baliye.”
The source continues, “Anushka wants to take part in the dance competition but she can’t because her husband is an old and not hip and happening. She fears that if she dances with him, she will lose the show and become the laughing stock among all her friends, who are taking part in the same. Shah Rukh over hears his wife’s problem and decides to go in for a makeover. He then watches some movies and changes his image completely and comes back to the show and woos Anushka off her feet. All the way through the dance competition, she keeps on falling in love with this new and improved Shah Rukh, without once realising that the man she is dancing with is her real husband.”

Priyanka Chopra In Bikini

2008-11-11T14:24:00.001+05:30

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Super Sexy former Miss World Priyanka Chopra who floored the audiences with her dare-bare performance in Fashion is waiting anxiously for audiences reaction to Dostana, which is her next release.The leggy lass has confessed working hard on her body for the film. She says,

“For Fashion, I had to put on six kilos and later had to shed chip by chip as the character progressed in the film. My body structure in Dostana is more toned than in Fashion as it is a completely beach film. I’ve worked very hard on my body.”
Since its a complete beach film, we would find Priyanka Chopra dressed chic and minimal clothes apart from bikinis.

Sushmita Sen To Play Benazir Bhutto

2008-11-11T14:22:00.000+05:30

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Sushmita Sen has been recently offered the role of Pakistan’s former lady Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto by two prominent Pakistani producers Zaid Aziz and Henna Rai.This film would be a bilingual film made in both English and Urdu and would be shot lavishly in Pakistan and England.

Apparently, Sushmita is working hard for her character. She is reading up extensively on the life of Benzir Bhutto and also working on her Urdu diction. (no wonder there was all that annoyingly excessive use of subhanallah and mashallah in Ek Khiladi Ek Haseena)

Sushmita earlier declared her love for historical character and period flicks. We hope atleast this film will soar her popularity in Bollywood.

007 Quantum Of Solace- Review

2008-11-08T10:43:00.001+05:30

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This film catches Ian Fleming's hero on the run, keeps him running, and zips along with a jolting, almost offensive velocity, catching its ragged breath in the rare opportunity for dialogue. Fans of the series who like to slow down and savour the scenery, enjoying a drip-feed of dodgy innuendo, may consider this a rude awakening - it's the shortest Bond movie to date, and easily the most terse.

It's briefly to London for some Paul Haggis-scripted soundbites about our changing planet, and then to Haiti, where we meet pouting Bolivian agent Camille (Olga Kurylenko) and villain du jour Dominic Greene (Mathieu Amalric), a petulant eco-criminal busily finessing the oil and water reserves of South America for his own gain. Amalric, who with every goggle-eyed smirk cements his credentials to star in a Roman Polanski biopic, brings a wickedly childish spite to this role, certainly proving a more interesting foil to Bond than his latest foxy-but-cross female sidekick.

James, of course, is still hung up over the betrayal and demise of Vesper in the last instalment, motivating a morose six-martini binge while he's flying across the Atlantic, as well as his avoidance here of any serious entanglements, save those in stray lengths of rope dangling from the roofs of Tuscan churches. He isn't alone: Camille, having had her family raped and burnt alive by a deposed Bolivian dictator, also has her mind on other things. Instead, there's a just-for-fun fling with MI6 emissary Gemma Arterton, who pitches up looking like a John le Carré strippogram in a trenchcoat, and exits in a homage to Shirley Goldfinger Eaton which had me reaching for bad oil puns. Crude? Unrefined? It's not exactly slick.

What's clever, and slick, and even a little ingenious about the movie, though, is how it postpones Bond's Vesper vendetta by submerging it beneath his present tasks - he gets an angry kick out of scuttling this international cabal of utility profiteers, who in the barmiest conceit get to negotiate through earpieces while seated for a state-of-the-art production of Tosca.

If there was any remaining doubt that the world is bartered and sold by people who can afford opera tickets, it's roundly dispelled, though how Amalric persuades his backers that Haiti, of all places, is some kind of model example for neocapitalist progress leaves us just a little foxed. "I don't give a s--- about the CIA," announces Judi Dench, inimitably, but it's not the best line in the movie: those are all the ones on Daniel Craig's face, particularly the deep vertical groove between his eyebrows when he's found yet another score to settle.

Quantum of Solace offers next to no solace, and the movie takes more part as a Drama, the story line drags at times and we cant hear the 007's Theme music at any time.

Rating : 2.5/5

007 Quantum Of Solace - Official Theatrical Trailer

2008-11-08T10:22:00.000+05:30

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SRK double dhamaka for Rab Ne..

2008-11-07T23:05:00.000+05:30

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SRK has confirmed the rumors that he is indeed playing a double role in his forthcoming Yash Raj flick Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi.

King Khan reveals, “When Adi narrated this story to me, I loved it. I didn’t think he wanted me for the lead role though, because he always narrated his stories to me, in spite of people thinking that we don’t get along. One of the characters, Surendra Sahni, is this normal man who is secure in his skin. He is an ordinary man who has an extraordinary story to tell. He is truly secure in his skin. I like such people.”

When Preity Zinta got slapped

2008-11-07T23:04:00.002+05:30

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Preity Zinta must have bagged the award for the best actress for her role as an abused wife in her flick Heaven on Earth, but she felt extremely humiliated when her co-star Vansh Bhardwaj, who enacted the role of her abusive hubby, mistakenly slapped her for real.

She says, “When we were shooting the film, there was a scene where my co-star had to slap me and, of course, it was a mistake as he took one step forward and actually went smack across my face.”
It was the most humiliating experience of my life because everyone saw me getting slapped.”

Bollywood actors have stage fright!

2008-11-07T23:04:00.001+05:30

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Far away in New York, Katie Holmes is winning hearts with her Broadway debut in Arthur Miller’s All My Sons, following in the footsteps of Julia Roberts and Al Pacino who have dominated the stage and screen with equal élan.

However, in India theatre directors are not too keen on having movie stars on stage. They feel Bollywood stars are ‘too indisciplined’ to fit into a stage actor’s shoes. Veteran theatre director, Alyque Padamsee rubbishes the thought that the presence of Bollywood actors can provide an impetus to an art form that commands only a niche audience.

He says, “The bar of good actors who can act well in both cinema and the stage has been set by stalwarts like Anupam Kher, Farooq Sheikh, Naseeruddin Shah and their likes. However, when film actors are just shoved into a play to try and get a hit, it brings a bad name to everyone associated with theatre.” He adds, “Blame it on the lack of discipline. Stage acting requires discipline that most Bollywood actors don’t have.”

Kareena Kapoor covers Hi Blitz

2008-11-07T22:34:00.003+05:30

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We are talking about none other than the gorgeous Kareena Kapoor who is probably enjoying the best phase of her life. Bebo, as she is fondly known as, also features as the cover-girl of fashion magazine 'Hi Blitz' in the November 2008 issue. Bollywood Hungama brings you some snapshots of the Kapoor babe who is surely the flavor of the season.

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Hrithik’s look for Kites

2008-11-06T19:48:00.001+05:30

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Hrithik Roshan from a long time has been sporting long locks, since his Krissh days, but the locks have turned auburn and seems like he has taken cue from good friend Abhishek Bachchan and is seen sporting a thick stubble these days.

Well the actor’s new look is for his film Kites. Some people are drooling over his new look and some think that he is suffering from some disease and hence the weak look.

However wife Sussane is completely bowled over by her hubby’s look.

Kangana Ranaut on her breast popping scene

2008-11-06T19:47:00.002+05:30

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Kangana Ranaut’s breast popping scene from her latest flick Fashion was the turning point in the movie for her as she goes in depression after the very same incident. The scene might have been blurred by the censor officials but it throws the right impact on the audience.

Kangana says, “The wardrobe malfunction scene, I am told made the audiences weep for me. I always knew from the beginning that ‘Shonali’s character was made for me. Madhur had told me, “‘Kangana, I don’t know where I would have gone if you wouldn’t have done the role of Shonali. I had no actress other than you in mind for Shonali.” I too always knew that Shonali’s character was made for me. I was guaranteed that the role belonged to me and I knew only I could do it, nobody else could. As far as the scene is concerned, it was like any other scene for me. I was not naked. I didn’t send anyone out as was reported by many publications.”

When SRK met Imran Khan

2008-11-06T19:47:00.001+05:30

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Well we are not talking about current heartthrob Imran Khan but the ex-Pakistani cricketer Imran Khan. The two Pathans had a whale of time as they attended the Cartier event together. Others attending the event were Yuvraaj Singh, Sophie Chaudhary and Minissha Lamba.

Priyanka Chopra doesn’t mind playing a lesbian

2008-11-06T19:45:00.003+05:30

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Priyanka Chopra is a hot property these days, forger about her last three misses, coz she has just hit the jackpot with Madhur Bhandarkar’s Fashion and then there is Dostana in the queue with hot men John Abraham and Abhishek Bachchan who are happy and gay(pun intended).

When quizzed is she would turn gay for a role, pat came the reply, “Why not? I would toy with the idea of playing a lesbian character if the role was well written and the script was rock solid. I’m all for equality and gay rights anyway.”
The hot Chopra girl also revealed about her hot gold swimwear for the flick, saying, “You see, I like playing different characters on-screen; in real life I try being as much ‘me’ as possible. The character, the film, the location – were all right. And in this case, it wasn’t so much the swimsuit being tailored for me as me being inspired by the swimsuit. Manish (Malhotra) got hold of this stunning gold swimwear and I was so floored that I worked at getting into it, the rest is history.I wore a swimsuit and rose from the sea ‘coz it was different too.”

Sneha Ullal- Aishwarya carbon copy

2008-11-06T19:45:00.001+05:30

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Sneha Ullal made her debut with Salman Khan in Lucky- No Time for Love, and ever since has been called as Aishwarya Rai’s look alike.

The actress( who is not well known on our blog) was recently in Delhi for the promotion of her upcoming flick , Kash Mere Hote and was visibly irritated when she was addressed as the world’s most beautiful lady’s look alike.

The actress after wrapping up the promotion, was walking back towards her car, when somebody shouted,‘Oh! She looks like Aishwarya!”

Singh is Kinng sequel in row

2008-11-06T19:44:00.002+05:30

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With the box-office success of Singh is Kinng , producer Vipul Shah has put on his thinking cap again and has decided to churn out a sequel for the movie

starring none other than the real Kinng, Akshay Kumar.

HE says, “After doing Waqt, Namastey London and Singh is Kinng, we had to do something that would take us into another zone. My next film with Akshay pushes the envelope even more. After that there’s the Singh Is Kinng sequel which I’d like Anees Bazmi to direct. But he’s very busy. So it depends on him.”

Celina Jaitely turns into a stripper

2008-11-06T19:44:00.001+05:30

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Celina Jaitely is always known for her daring acts more than her acting. And now the actress is getting to fulfill her wish of more skin show, with her upcoming movie, Showman where she plays a stripper.

The hot babe says, “I am playing this girl born to an English man and Indian woman. She unfortunately comes from a very poor family background in London. She has grown up to be a stripper in a night club and a con artist. Basically her main aim is to own a night club.”