Daily Bollywood NEWS

Jacqueline Fernandes Emraan Hashmi kissing photos

2011-07-05T07:11:00.000+05:30

All about Jacqueline Fernandez, wallpapers, pictures, photo gallery, Jacqueline Fernandez news, events & parties, videos.

Sexy Jacqueline Fernandes Photo Gallery

Hot Jacqueline Fernandes Wallpapers

Jacqueline Fernandes with Emraan Hashmi

Emraan Hashmi kissing Jacqueline Fernandes

Emami to rope in Hrithik Roshan to endorse Zandu Balm

2011-03-02T07:46:00.003+05:30

New Delhi, Mar 1 (PTI) Kolkata-based consumer goods firm Emami Ltd is close to signing up Bollywood actor Hrithik Roshan as the new brand ambassador for its pain relief brand Zandu Balm.

Emami that had recently roped in ''Munni'' Malaika Arora Khan, has approached Hrithik to endorse Zandu and is expected to ink the deal soon, according to sources.

When contacted, Emami Director Harsh Agarwal, declined to confirm the development and said,"We can not comment."

Other popular names that are currently cheering for the product include cricketers Virender Sehwag, Amit Mishra, Dinesh Karthik and film celebrities like Malaika Arora, Junior NTR and Suriya.

Zandu balm is currently a Rs 190 crore brand for Emami, that does an annual turnover of Rs 1,100 crore.

On the other hand Hrithik is at present seen endorsing Hero Honda bikes and ''Hide n Seek'' biscuits.

The term of the actor''s contract with Emami and endorsement fee are not known yet.

On the silver screen, Hrithik was last seen in director Sanjay Leela Bhansali''s Guzaarish opposite Aishwarya Rai Bachchan.

Ranveer overtakes Shahrukh, Salman on Facebook

2011-03-01T06:13:00.002+05:30

Actor Ranveer Singh of Band Baaja Baaraat fame has overtaken Shahrukh Khan and Salman Khan for the India's first Annual Facebook Movie Awards. The Facebook has organised a poll, where in its users will vote for their favourite movie stars for the year 2010.

This award will be purely on the basis of the voting done by the movie buffs throughout the globe through this social networking site. The FBMA polls will close by the end of the June month.

It is also reported that Ranveer has also been roped in as brand ambassador of the market leader in cold drinks, Cola. The drink will be relaunched with Ranveer Singh's new face. Looks like Cola is busy roping in all the Bollywood Ranveer's (Ranbir) as it's ambassador.

Source: oneindia.in

Bodyguard remake not My Love Story: Salman @ Entertainbuzz

2011-01-21T10:51:00.000+05:30

The Hindi remake of Malayalam hit 'Bodyguard' with Salman Khan and Kareena Kapoor in a leadership role is set to go on the plants before the movie and co-producer Atul Agnihotri has rejected the reports entitled "My love affair '.

Upcoming Dil to Bachcha Hai Ji Bollywood Movie

2011-01-21T10:44:00.002+05:30

Bollywood actors Ajay Devgan and Emraan Hashmi released the first image of 'Dil to Bachcha Hai Ji ' here this weekend.

Directed by Madhur Bhandarkar, the film stars Ajay Devgn, Amisha Patel, Emraan Hashmi, Jiah Khan and Omi Vaidya.

Bhandarkar said he had walked away from filmmaking seriously and this time he has tried his hand at comedy.

"'To Dil Hai Bacha Ji" is a slice of life, different films. My cinema has always been strong and real. This is also real, but the comedy too. The gender of the whole movie is a comedy. This is a sector of life and everyone associated with this issue, "said Bhandarkar.

Devgan described the film as a romantic comedy, adding that people of all ages connect with him.

"It's a nice romantic comedy (and the romantic comedy) that you believe that all young people and people of all ages are identified. Is a relative of comedy, what happens in real life for all, but do not laugh at it. Therefore, I think it's a different kind of genre, "he said.

'Dil Hai To Bacha Ji' is a story of three men and their encounters with love.

Hashmi said that the theme of the film is appropriate as it shows that men usually do not grow and remain immature.

"The motto of" To Dil Hai Bacha Ji 'from the movie emphasizes that men usually do not grow. It is an apt phrase for the film. In general, men do not grow. I think women mature at an early stage. Men grow to the age of 30-35, but they are still immature, "said Hashmi.

"Therefore, it is an apt phrase. The story is based on three men in the age group of 30, 35 and 39, but still struggling with love, their relationships," he added.

Pritam Chakraborty has composed the music for the film.

The film is scheduled to hit theaters on January 28.

Dia Mirza ANDpersand Magazine Photo Shoot

2011-01-01T08:05:00.000+05:30

Dia Mirza’s new look with mixture of sexy and glamour’s Photoshoot For ANDpersand Magazine. Dia Mirza photos from ANDpersand Magazine.

Sayali Bhagat Marathi Indian actress former Miss India

2010-12-31T09:16:00.000+05:30

Sayali Bhagat (Marathi: ????? ??? ; born 1 January 1984) is an Indian actress and former Miss India.
you may have seen video of Sayali Bhagat which was been shooed For The Man Magazine. Sayali bhagat become famous by showing her Cutey legs at her latest Photoshoot. Her nice collection was Sayali Bhagat wearing a pink bra and exposing her Backets. here we have also a nice pic from sayali bhagat where we can see her on The Cover of Trends Magazine.

Rani Mukherjee is my favourite actress- Vidya Balan

2010-12-30T16:00:00.001+05:30

Whenever you see Vidya Balan perform, you tend to believe that she does nothing by the book. Five years on, Vidya's star has risen yet further, and it is a mark of how untouched she is - how real, if you like - that nothing has changed. Whatever it was, those formative experiences served her well in her chosen career as an actress. Those murky corners where pain, discord and ambiguity are rife have always attracted Vidya, and it's really the truth if I may exaggerate, that Balan is swallowed by Bollywood and it will be an understatement if I again stress on the fact that Vidya's portrayal of diverse and distinguished roles is a testament of quality, excelling in range, power and versatility.

Her forthcoming role of Sabrina Lal from No One Killed Jessica is just a few of the many more we will be a witness to in the days to come and in the near future. And as we come to an end of this exhilarating chat with one of India's finest, I ponder and deliver - 'What would possibly go wrong if Cleopatra had actually met Vidya Balan?' I mean, ever wondered how Cleopatra would've looked if she was draped in a Sabyasachi's saree? Our correspondent brings you part two of the exclusive chat with India's very own - symbol of sexy and simplicity.

"When you talk about Jessica Lal, you talk about Sabrina"
Cinema is all about stirring emotions. For me, that happened in No One Killed Jessica. It was also about an emotional journey of Sabrina who was the face of the case, besides the media. When you talk about Jessica Lal, you talk about Sabrina because it was her bravery that got her sister justice.

"Raj Kumar Gupta saw me in my costume on day one and said, 'That's my Sabrina'"
I asked my director why he offered me the role of Sabrina and not the media person played by Rani Mukherjee. It's an important question for me. He informed me that he needed an emotional graph of a woman and that I was the only one who could pull it off. This is one film that I've spoken very less about but yet I want to go on and on about it. The first day I did my costume trial and when my director saw me, he said, "That's my Sabrina".

"The promos never favoured Rani Mukherjee"
The promos never favoured Rani Mukherjee. The story is about these two people, played by me and Rani. The purpose of both these women were the same - to give justice, but their approaches were very different. Sabrina is about quiet strength and she looks very timid. Sabrina is almost like a wall flower. The promo can't have too many silent moments. It has to have frenzy.

"Sabyasachi said that from a sexually aggressive character I've turned into an asexual unattractive one"
Sabyasachi went with Rani Mukherjee to London to shop for her clothes for No one Killed Jessica. He is such a designer that he doesn't see films as a showcase for his clothes. Sabyasachi clothes characters. What took me by surprise is the fact that he came from London and said, "I got your clothes too". So when I asked him why he didn't take me along with him to London, he said, "I wanted clothes which were larger and not your size". He gave me tees that were over sized and completely asexual. He told me, "From the sexually aggressive Krishna in Ishqiya, comes an asexual lady who ain't pretty". That was how real Sabyasachi wanted me to be in the film.

"I have pushed my schizophrenia to an unbelievable limit"
Words like 'commercial cinema' and 'art house cinema' are redundant in today's time. Categories don't exist anymore because I feel that a good film will always work. It could be anything. The scale of a film may differ but a good film that recovers its money is a hit. It could be a five crore, fifty crore or a hundred crore hit. Personally, every film I've acted in has given me something different to do and I have pushed my schizophrenia to an unbelievable limit (laughs).

"Zeenat Aman is a kind of sexy that is graceful sexy"
With the kind of clothes Zeenat Aman wore, she carried it with so much elegance. You never looked at Zeenat Aman and said 'cheap'. She was an epitome of 'sexy'. She is the kind of sexy that is 'graceful sexy'. Even when you see her in her bellbottoms, she looked classy.

"My director stripped me of all the excesses"
Raj Kumar Gupta is someone who is very instinctive. Ever since I have made my debut, I've seen directors vision change and how. One in terms of treatment they give to their scenes. It's real and not conventional. Directors like Abhishek Chaubey, Raj Kumar Gupta and Sujoy Ghosh are unconventional but very passionate and very high on conviction. That's why they have the courage to make the types of films they want to make. Secondly, the new directors strip you of all the excesses. When I watched something of NOKJ, I asked myself, "Is that really me?"

"Rani Mukherjee is my favourite actress amongst my immediate seniors"
It's exciting to work with a good actor and Rani Mukherjee is someone who I've always liked. I've liked her in Bunty Aur Babli, Raja Ki Aayegi Baarat and Black. Rani Mukherjee is my favourite actress amongst my immediate seniors. Like I said, acting is about reacting and when you work with an actor like Rani, its great fun. We don't have too many scenes together in the film but we have worked together for a few days. We got along very well.

"I love the song 'Aitbaar' which talks about Sabrina's journey
Amit Trivedi's music and Amitabh Bhattacharya's lyrics complement each other. The first time I heard the song 'Dilli Dilli' I thought that it had some kind of weird energy about it. There is another favourite track of mine called 'Aitbaar' which is really about Sabrina's journey and there is a crazy song like 'Saali'. Three diverse songs which has everything to do with the film and its characters - Delhi, Sabrina and Rani's character.

"One of the newspapers carried a headline - No one killed Jessica, and that became our title"
The title is very ambiguous but it has a deeper meaning to it. The day after the initial court case of Jessica Lal, when everyone got acquitted and the witnesses turned hostile, the conclusion was seen in the next day's newspapers with a headline saying 'No One Killed Jessica'. I like this title because it says a lot about the film and yet says nothing. I loved the titles Ishqiya, Dabangg and Lage Raho Munnabhai, not because it had Munnabhai but because it had 'Lage Raho'. It was simple. I loved Parineeta too without sounding biased.

source: oneindia,in

About Tees Maar Khan By Akki

2010-12-13T10:41:00.002+05:30

Tees Maar Khan is a clean film: Akki

The raunchy item number 'Sheila ki Jawani' might be the highlight in the promotions of 'Tees Maar Khan' but actor Akshay Kumar says the film is a clean family entertainer. "Tees Maar Khan is a simple comedy, not one with double-meaning or innuendoes, and a wholesome family entertainer.

I am hopeful it will connect with the audience," said Akshay. The 44-year-old actor, who is also the co-producer of the film, said that he did not have to take any added responsibilites as director Farah Khan handled it all well.

"With Farah as the director I did never have to wear the producer's hat. Farah instead had many responsibilities as the director, choregrapher and man manager. And I am happy to have her as the director," said Akshay, who was in the city to promote the film releasing on Christmas eve.

The superstar recollected his days in Kolkata when he used to work in a travel agency in the early 80s, saying he was hopeful about the film doing well in this city whose pulse he knew so well.

"I used to work from that office in New Market area in 1980-81. A lot has changed, back then I used to walk along the street alone and now I am threatened with so many lenses and cameras. But the passion remains the same."

Kumar, who has had two successive flops Khatta Meetha and Action Replayy recently, would rather dwell on the positives and assert he only keeps working harder.

"I keep working and striving hard for each and every film. Everybody looks for a big hit and it is left to the audience. But my character in this film is certain to warm up to people, they would be able to relate to him who brags about killing 30 people but actually have ended up killing less than 10 mosquitos."

When asked whether the film would be as successful as this year's top grosser Dabangg, Akshay said, "There is no competition. I am happy Dabangg ended up becoming a superhit film. It was very well made. I am equally hopeful about Tees Maar Khan."

He said he will continue to work in quality films which are entertaining with a sound script as an actor. Akshay also complimented his co-star Katrina Kaif for her performance.

"I have had a wonderful experience with Katrina and I am happy that her dance number in the film is being compared with pop star Shakira and not with Munni in Dabangg as was being done frequently wherever we went earlier," said Akshay.

By hindustantimes.com

Imran Khan is the new face of Bollywood romcoms

2010-11-24T17:30:00.000+05:30

Your character Abhay in Break Ke Baad is said to be very similar to you. Is this true?

Yes. I felt an immediate connect with the character. His thoughts, motivations and actions in the films are quite like mine. As Deepika Padukone and Danish Aslam got to know me on sets, they started telling me that I am actually like Abhay.

Is Abhay a contrast to your character in I Hate Luv Storys?

The character in I Hate Luv Storys is something I loved to play. He was just hilarious. On the one hand, it was fun to play him because he is so different but then I needed to understand him better. On the contrary, I inherently understood Abhay.

Right from the start of your career, you have been working with actors and directors who fall in your age bracket. Are you more comfortable with them?

I love to work with people who have a similar mindset as me. But the most important factor is how much a director excites me with his script. How interested can he make me in a story. If he can interest me, he can interest the audience as well. Most first timers have this burning desire in them. They want to prove themselves and that is infectious.

Most actors in their early years want to be associated with established directors. Don't you want to do that?

I meet anyone who calls me and anyone who gets me fired up I work with them.

With two back to back romcom releases and two more to go (YRF's Mere Brother Ki Dulhan and Dharma Productions' next), aren't you getting typecast in the genre?

In India, we are very quick to typecast. But the second someone moves away, we are ready to pounce on him too. Akshay Kumar started off as an action star, and then he did one comedy film and everyone thought he was very funny. Typecasting is not a concern for me. I know the minute you do something good, people will appreciate that as well. Anyway, my next film Delhi Belly is as far removed from all this. It is an offbeat English language film.

Jaane Tu...Ya Jaane Na was a dream start for you. Do you think it has been a struggle to repeat the feat?

That struggle will never go away. Throughout an actor's career you will have to struggle through hits and flops. There are people who have been stars for 20 years but a single flop and they are written off. You have to prove yourself every time.

So how do you propose to deal with criticism?

You have to be ready for it. These are the terms and conditions of our industry. If you cannot deal with failure and criticism, go home. Likewise, you have to know how to deal with success too.

How similar are you to Aamir Khan when it comes to work?

I don't know how Aamir mamu works, since he keeps his work separate from his personal life. For me, it varies with each film. For instance, Kidnap demanded a lot of work from me, but BKB was not hard on me at all.

Post BKB, will your wedding preparations start in full swing?

The day BKB releases, I leave for Las Vegas to shoot Dharma Productions' next with Kareena Kapoor. I am back in December for my next schedule of YRF's MBKD. I have got three to four days off in the first week of January. I have just about sandwiched my wedding in on January 8.

Source: Yahoo NEWS

Shahrukh Bola Khoobsurat Hai Tu - Review

2010-11-22T09:58:00.000+05:30

When someone with an eye for talent and with a grip on the written material attempts a film [Makarand Deshpande], you expect the celluloid experience to be an invigorating and enlightening journey. But Shahrukh Bola Khoobsurat Hai Tu comes across as a disjointed and incoherent effort which appeals in bits and spurts. Clearly, the fault lies in the written material [screenplay].

To start with, the very first sequence of the film - an obsessed lover stabbing a woman because SRK has said, 'khoobsurat hai tu' - falls flat after you've watched the film in entirety. Sure, people do commit heinous crimes in a fit of rage, but there's no solid reason for this person to take this extreme step, in this case. At least it doesn't come across as strongly in the narrative. Besides, the goings-on vacillate between interesting and boring moments constantly, which makes this one a lackluster affair.

Laali [Preetika Chawla] is a die-hard Shahrukh Khan fan. She sells flowers on the street to earn livelihood. While selling flowers one day, a car stops and she hears a voice asking for flowers. She realizes that the person in the car is none other than her idol Shahrukh Khan. SRK just says, 'khoobsurat hai tu' and that makes Laali go crazy. The film begins with a person, John, stabbing Laali because she doesn't reciprocate his love. The remainder of the film is about Laali, John and the assorted people in the basti.

It's common knowledge that a majority of films fail because the writing is sketchy and sloppy. Shahrukh Bola Khoobsurat Hai Tu is no different. The viewers are introduced to several characters in the film, which attempt to take the story forward. But barring the lead pair, the character sketch of the remaining characters is half-baked, which explains why the film appeals in bits and pieces.

Makarand Deshpande is a gifted storyteller and those who've seen his work on stage swear that he's supremely talented. A viewpoint I endorse completely. But Makarand, sadly, hasn't been able to recreate that magic on screen. Experimenting with new stories and narrating them with flourish has always been his forte, but the expertise doesn't come across strongly here. The execution of the material is a shade better, but what's the point if the film stands on a shaky foundation [screenplay]?

Amongst the plusses, Makarand succeeds in giving the film a realistic look, which must've been tough since the film has been shot at actual locations. The music is functional, although I'd like to single out the Jagjit Singh track, which is soothing and easy on the ears.

The cast comprises of new faces largely and each of them delivers pure, unadulterated performances. Especially the actress who enacts the role of the hooker. Preetika Chawla has the makings of a fine actress. Nagesh Bhosale and Makrand Deshpande, both well-experienced actors, are efficient. SRK makes a brief appearance in the film.

On the whole, Shahrukh Bola Khoobsurat Hai Tu is more of an experiment that will go unnoticed.

Director: Makrand Deshpande

Cast: Shahrukh Khan, Pritika Chawla, Sanjay Dadheech, Makrand Deshpande, Nagesh Bhonsle, Kay Kay Menon, Choyoti Ghosh

Source: oneindia.in

Ramaa - The Saviour Review

2010-11-20T13:05:00.000+05:30

We often grumble that we don't make films targeted at kids unlike the West where this genre has cut across barriers and reached out to not only kids, but also teens and adults. Ramaa - The Saviour tries to go into a zone where no Hindi film has visited in the past: Video gaming.

But a terrific idea is no guarantee for a terrific film. Everything depends on how gripping and absorbing the screenplay is and how deftly the director executes the subject material. Ramaa - The Saviour has some attention-grabbing moments, but they are few and far between.

It's a story of six kids - Rohan, Riddhi, Kunal, Komal, Sameer and Saanjh. The kids play a newly launched video game - The Last Battle - and while playing the game, they suddenly find themselves on an isolated island. The children, while exploring the island, run into trouble. Riddhi is attacked by a giant, Vali [Khali], but is rescued by Ramaa [Sahil Khan], who lives in this jungle all alone. Danger arrives in the form of a boat commanded by Kali with a small army of mercenaries and a scientist-assistant Samara [Tanushree Dutta]. The rest of the tale depicts the fight between the good and the evil.

It's a tough call to cast the right faces when you set out to attempt a kiddie film. They need to look the parts, but most importantly, live the parts as well. The kids in Ramaa - The Saviour pass the test with good marks.

But it's the writing that plays a spoilsport and doesn't do justice to the concept and the efforts invested in the project. Let me explain. To start with, there should have been some detailing on the protagonist [Sahil Khan], who comes across as a mix of Tarzan and Conan The Barbarian. He has the ability to connect via telepathy with humans and animals, we're told, but what is he doing in the secluded island-jungle? Besides, what's Vali's [Khali] connection with Ramaa? Also, why were they fighting in the first place? Is Vali human or demon or spirit? Tanushree's character isn't well penned either. She belongs to the evil camp, but crosses over to Ramaa's side without any valid justification.

Director Haadi Abrar deserves marks for opting for an innovative plot, but the writing lets him down. The action scenes [action: Peter Hein] are the mainstay of the enterprise. The fight on the river in particular is fantastic. Sejal Shah's cinematography captures the forests with expertise. Amongst the songs [Siddharth-Suhas], the one filmed on the kids, 'We Don't Need', is truly energetic.

Sahil Khan exhibits his physique to the optimum, but the screenplay doesn't offer him scope to exhibit histrionics. Tanushree surprises in action scenes. She's wonderful. The new villain, Taleb, looks ferocious. Khali is okay. The kids, all of them, are super confident.

On the whole, Ramaa - The Saviour isn't convincing.

Director: Haadi Abrar

Cast: Saahil Khan, Tanushree Dutta, Khali, Ishita Panchal

Source: Oneindia.in

Aamir Khan's next to be a suspense drama

2010-11-16T10:28:00.000+05:30

The audience has been caught unaware, the trade is surprised, the industry is amazed and the detractors shocked. Aamir Khan, whose last release (3 Idiots) was close to a year back, hadn't signed a film for ages. In fact work on 3 Idiots had begun more than two and a half years ago and ever since then, there were speculations galore around what would he do next. The feelers were from all over in fact. There were talks about Yash Chopra, Karan Johar and Vidhu Vinod Chopra lining up projects for him to pick and choose. And we are talking only about top of the top brass here.

However, Aamir ended up opting for the one film old Reema Kagti who had found critical appreciation as well as reasonable commercial success with her debut outing Honeymoon Travels Pvt. Ltd, a quirky comedy. With Aamir Khan though, she is taking an altogether different route by scripting a suspense drama.

Says a veteran insider, "Now that's a first for Aamir because in his career spanning over two decades, Aamir has never - that's right, never - worked in a suspense drama. Known mostly for his romantic or at times dramatic or action ventures, Aamir has been rapidly switching genres in the last five years. After playing a college student in 3 Idiots, working in a mature dramatic outing with an element of suspense to it sounds like quite a move by Aamir."

This wasn't the first script that Reema had presented to Aamir though. She in fact had an altogether different subject in mind and had approached Aamir to work on it a few months back.

"When I first got into a conversation with Aamir, it was for a different subject altogether", reveals Reema who meanwhile also wrote Hrithik Roshan-Katrina Kaif starrer Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara for close friend and colleague Zoya Akhtar, "It was then decided to pick a different subject and build it on further. It definitely sounded interesting and I bided my time, got this script in place for the new subject, and approached Aamir again."

Given the fact that Aamir is known for his 'active contribution' to the projects that he consents to; did the famed 'improvisation' affect her script as well? After all there are still a few more weeks to go and there could be possible changes in script that could come her way.

"No, Aamir didn't suggest any changes there. In fact what I presented to Aamir stays the way it was designed", Reema confirms.

She goes on add on a parting note, "Whatever few changes that have actually come in, they are entirely based on what I thought would make the drama more tout. The script has only become far more firm and crisp now."

A joint production of Farhan Akhtar-Ritesh Sidhwani and Aamir Khan, this yet untitled film would commence shooting in February 2011 and would be ready for release by year end.

Source: http://entertainment.oneindia.in/

Ajay Devgn in Rohit Shetty's next film

2010-11-06T10:26:00.000+05:30

After directing successful comedies like the Golmaal series and All The Best, Rohit Shetty will change tracks for his next venture and return to the action genre. Rohit's next after Golmaal 3 is an action-packed film, which is a remake of the 2010 Tamil smash-hit film Singam.

While the Tamil film starred Surya in the lead role, the Hindi remake will star Rohit's best friend Ajay Devgn. The film is being produced by Reliance Big Pictures which had also co-produced the Tamil version.

Confirming the same, Rohit said, "Yes my next film is the remake of Singam and stars Ajay Devgn. Right now, I am too busy with the release of Golmaal 3 and have not finalised on the actress and other cast."

Considering Rohit's debut film as a director was an action film Zameen, it will be interesting to see how Rohit tackles this genre after a long hiatus.

Source: oneindia.in

Do Dooni Chaar carries a Nobel message: Neetu Singh

2010-10-07T21:14:00.000+05:30

Do Dooni Chaar is all set to release this Friday (October 8). The promos of the film, so far, have been quiet impressive and pleasant. The film unfolds the tale of a middle class family from Delhi. The film marks a come back of the yesteryear Bollywood couple Rishi Kapoor and Neetu Singh after 30 years. In Do Dooni Chaar, the duo are seen as a middle class couple.

The promos of the film suggests it to be comedy flick, while, Neetu Singh insists that the film carries a noble message also, but, in a subtle way.

"The best part about Do Dooni Chaar is that you will never get bored at all. It will make you laugh at the right places but then the film is not just a comedy per se. It has a heart to it and eventually has been designed as a noble film that also conveys a message. The way (writer-director) Habib has written the film, you would see that he hasn't thrust upon anything on the audience but conveyed it all in a subtle manner", says Neetu Singh who was last seen in a blink-and-you-would-miss appearance in Love Aaj Kal.

Quite impressed with the way the film has turned out to be, Neetu Singh praises the director of her comeback film with a heart full of content. "When Habib was narrating the story, he made me rehearse some dialogues from the film", she smiles, "He made me concentrate on some really small things such as mouthing words like 'Saturday' or 'Twenty' in a particular accent. He wanted me to shed off that upper class mentality and get into the garb of a middle-aged woman of a middle class family of Delhi. I was really impressed with what he brought to the table. Also, he made me and Rishi go through quite a few look tests before we finalized on the look of the Duggals, the characters we play in the film."

Once on board, she did have a few nervous moments before she actually gave her first shot in front of the camera. "See, at this age I can't remember all my lines so quickly as I used to in the 70s", she makes a candid confession, "Really, I was very nervous but then that feeling was there only for the first day. Ek baar jab meri jhijhak kjhul gayi (As soon as my hesitation was over) then I was all okay. From second day onwards, it was business as usual. It was back to the old times."

Aamir Khan wins over the west

2010-01-04T15:00:00.001+05:30

If you thought Indian movies could not sell abroad as Aamir Khan starer 3 Idiots seems to have broken this myth. The entire nation is going gaga over the fact that the Raj Kumar Hirani directed movie has grossed over 100 Crores in just 4 days. But what's more interesting is the performance of the movie win the overseas market traditionally thought to be a Shahrukh Khan-Karan Johar domain due to their lavish shooting in foreign locations.

In US alone 3 Idiots has grossed Rs. 10 Crores surpassing all records set by SRK and KJo. Same is the case with UK and Australia and where the movie has releases. 3 Idiots has earned 30 percent more than Ghajini which held the record for collections in the opening week. In Australia is had slowed down James Cameron's magnum opus Avatar which was made at a budget almost 80 times that of 3 Idiots. This surely is the finest hour of Aamir Khan's career.

Topics: aamir khan, 3 idiots, raj kumar hirani, won over west, shahrukh khan.
Source: entertainment.oneindia.in

Kat's painful Christmas celebration!

2009-12-25T09:46:00.001+05:30

Katrina Kaif has decided to join her family in London for the annual Christmas-New Year vacation, in spite of being in pain after her minor surgery last week.

The healing process after the surgery is not even half-complete. But the actress, who was recovering quietly at her Mumbai home, flew out of the city early Wednesday after getting a reluctant go-ahead from her doctors at Breach Candy hospital.

Wincing in pain, she said a few hours before departure: "The pain will remain for a while. But the process of healing is on. I got my doctor's consent in Mumbai and I've another doctor in London who's fully aware of my condition. The doctors said the pain will be the same in Mumbai or London. And as long as I'm very careful about not exerting myself I'll be fine. So I'm off."

Katrina was depressed earlier in the week, thinking she wouldn't be able to join her siblings in London because of her medical condition. But later she decided to go for the vacation.

Said Katrina: "I can't exert myself, can't dance around or be boisterous. But that's okay, because our family is in any case not the dancing type. I just want to be with my sister's little boy, take him to the toy stores in London and buy him everything he wants."

Katrina returns to Mumbai in the first week of January, hopefully fully healed. "Luckily I've a doctor in London who knows how to look after me. So basically I'm just moving into a happier state of mind by being close to the people I love. That would help me heal quicker...Wish me luck."

Source: hindustantimes.com

"I've stripped every bit of Celina" - Celina Jaitley

2009-12-23T14:40:00.002+05:30

Her cat eyes draw you in her world of fame and fortune. Then you begin to understand how unfortunate you are not to have her in your life. Then your eyes open up and you see the reality that you're still interviewing her. Then you start to go red in fury, but for Celina Jaitley, she's been busy painting the town red after she won her first Best Actress Award at the Cairo International Film Festival. And it's a fact that the colour red has indeed proved lucky for her, thanks to her film Red, she got her first overseas agent, then went on to get her first English film and then again winning the Best Actress Award.

With her striking good looks and talent, Celina has become Bollywood's most glamorous actresses. But not any more. For her latest film, Accident on Hill Road, due to release on the last day of this year, the leading lady has gained weight, cut her hair short looking completely de-glam and goes on to say, "People will now look beyond my glamour image and take me seriously as an actor." We got to chat with the lovely Celina on the challenges in portraying the real life characters on screen, her new hairstyle, her rapport with co-stars Farooq Sheikh and Abhimanyu, her instant international fame and her confidence that 2010 will bring her even more success and good luck than 2009.

First thing's first, your first ever award for an English language film as the Best Actor Female at the Cairo International Film Festival. Still in a state of shock?
Now comes the after shocks (laughs). I think there couldn't have been a better beginning than this. This is completely justifiable. The award is a proof of the fact that hard work does pay off at the end of the day, someday (laughs).

How important is it to be 'just' to your character in a film based on a real life incident?
The thing about real life stories is that you cannot act them out. You have to be it. Being true to the character was the most difficult part which, by the way, was American but has been re-adapted to India. Yes, there were a lot of issues to it but I feel that it is important for an actor like me to dabble in a diverse cinema and Accident on Hill Road is one of those films which is going to be a new genre all together. For me, this film is an entertaining experiment and I hope people enjoy it as much as I loved being a part of it.

Even your hairdo makes you look different and de-glam.
Thank you. Yes, some actors have a glamorous image for so long that they can live in that image for the rest of their lives. I can also do that. But the actor in me wasn't satisfied and it was very difficult for me to prove myself. The only way I could do that was if I stripped every bit of Celina from me. That's what I did for this film. I stripped every bit of Celina in me, including my hair. The director of course, suggested that and I instantly agreed to do a different hairdo.

And you do seem to have put on a bit of weight too.
(laughs) Yes. Good observation. I've even put on a lot of weight for this film. I completely stopped working out two months before this film so that I didn't look muscular, toned, and just looked like a next door girl. I did everything I could to make this real life story come to life. It's been a difficult and an endearing task to make Accident on Hill Road.

How does it feel to be the senior most actor in the entire cast along with Mr Farooq Sheikh? And how much of a rapport did you share with your new co-star Abhimanyu?
It feels great. Abhimanyu, my co-star in the film is relatively a new comer but I feel he is one of the most talented actors we have today. He proved that in Anurag Kashyap's Gulaal. Actors like him don't need to prove themselves at all. I felt that the best thing about this film is that both, me and Abhimanyu and Farooq saab are three different identities. We're people who've made their identities in the film industry in a totally different way. In a film like this, all this works so well.

You're pretty optimistic about bringing in your New Year, 2010, with a success smile from Accident on Hill Road?
I pray for that...and a lot of people are telling me that 2010 is going to be even better for me than 2009. I am really looking forward to it. At the end of the day, it's about appreciation, whether the film does well or not. This is one of those films where I believe that I'll receive appreciation for my work.

After A.R. Rahman and Resul Pookutty, it's Celina Jaitley on the international podium receiving an award. Do you think that your flight has finally taken off now?
All I know is the fact that my flight was always in air. People refuse to acknowledge it, which is fine with me because I'm ready to work over and over again till I prove myself. As an actor, I've started making my mark. People will now look beyond my glamour image and take me seriously as an actor, thanks to the Cairo International Film Festival.

You best performance you once mentioned came out from the film Red. With your latest release, here's wishing you 'Paint the town red Celina'.
Thank you so much. But to be honest with you, Red was a commercial attempt to a parallel cinema and though it may not have done well at the box office, it gave me my first English film, it's the film which got me my overseas agent. Sometimes, lessons come in disguise of failure. I don't know what the box office result of Accident on Hill Road is going to be but I'm sure people are going to love everyone's work in the movie.

Tags: celina jaitley, accident on hill road, abhimanyu, farooq sheikh.

Source: entertainment.oneindia.in

Katrina Kaif advised complete bed rest

2009-12-14T15:32:00.000+05:30

Bollywood actress Katrina Kaif, who was diagnosed with jaundice and low haemoglobin count recently, is in danger again with her health deteriorating each passing day. People close to her are worried about her health.

She was taken to a suburban hospital again Yesterday (December 13) for further tests, as her hemoglobin count continued to fall despite the treatment. It took almost a day to complete all the complicated medical tests. Now, she has been advised complete bed rest by the doctors.

Sources said that Katrina's health took a dip after attending two consecutive nights on Friday and Saturday for the sangeet and wedding of her boyfriend Salman Khan's close family-friend Krishan Narayan’s daughter.

It is said that the doctors have not found out the cause of the fall in the haemoglobin count. However, Katrina said that she would be fine and all she needed is rest.

Well, we wish her speedy recovery!

Tags: katrina kaif.

Katrina Kaif says no to Hrithik Roshan

2009-12-14T09:13:00.000+05:30

Bollywood hunk Hrithik Roshan has acted with almost every actress in the film industry but not with the hot and happening Katrina Kaif, who has a string of hits under her belt. It would be a treat to see these talented actors together on the big screens but that's not going to happen soon, as Katrina has refused to act with Hrithik.

The grapevine is abuzz with the news that Katrina refused to act opposite Hrithik in the sequel of the hit film Krrish. The reason she gave was that its shooting schedules clashed with that of Karan Johar’s Dostana sequel.

Sources said that Rakesh Roshan decided to go for Deepika Padukone after Katrina turned down his offer. Well, Katrina's loss is Deepika's gain!

Tags: katrina kaif, hrithik roshan, krrish.
source:http://entertainment.oneindia.in/bollywood/gupshup/2009/katrina-hrithik-krrish-sequel-121209.html

Bipasha to perform at New Year eve bash

2009-12-13T21:06:00.001+05:30

Mumbai, Dec 13 (IANS) Actress Bipasha Basu and singer Sudesh Bhosle will add glitz to the New Year eve celebrations at the Sahara Star Hotel here, says an official.

'Bipasha Basu will perform in our hotel on New Year eve,' Vivek Kumar, CEO of hotel, told IANS.

He, however, refused to reveal how much Bipasha was charging for her performance.

'She is priceless. We do not attach any price to art, but yes, there are certain commitments that will be fulfilled,' said Kumar, and added that Sudesh Bhonsle would also perform.

Asked about other performers, he said: 'We are in very advanced talks with some other celebrities and I think it will be confirmed very soon who else are going to be there.'

Kumar informed that they have designed various packages and priced them differently for those who want to enjoy the New Year eve extravaganza.

'There are different packages. The food and beverage package will cost Rs.11,500 per head. There are other packages for those who book a room in the hotel for that night.'

Bipasha's manager confirmed the news to IANS, saying: 'Yes, it's true (that she is performing).'
Indo Asian News Service

Dare-to-bare Deepika Padukone says yes to Bikinis

2009-12-09T17:41:00.001+05:30

Another actress to join the bikini babes club is Deepika Padukone who is ready with her dare-to-bare act in Sajid Khan’s ‘Housefull’.

Earlier, it was Lara Dutta and Jiah Khan who were supposed to wear bikini in the film, but Sajid Khan had a sudden change of mind and decided to have all the three actresses of his film don bikini.

While, Lara Dutta and Jiah Khan have donned bikini before, but seems like ‘Housefull’ will be the first for Deepika.

Well seems like this one won’t be tough to pull, as Deepika has a fabulous bod to carry the bikini with ample grace.

Hmm… Looks like it is going to be a bikini fest with Lara, Jiah and Deepika scintillating audience in ‘Housefull’.

'Rocket Singh' short but sweet album

2009-12-07T17:15:00.000+05:30

Film: 'Rocket Singh'; Music Director: Sulaiman and Salim Merchant; Lyricist: Jaideep Sahni; Singers: Benny Dayal, Vishal Dadlani and Salim Merchant; Rating: ***

'Chak De! India' director Shimit Amin is back with 'Rocket Singh - Salesman Of The Year'. If the Shah Rukh Khan-starrer had six original tracks, the album of his new film has only three songs. But they are definitely worth a hear.

The music of 'Rocket Singh', which has Ranbir Kapoor in the lead, is by composer brothers Salim and Sulaiman Merchant and the soundtrack has eight bonus tracks from old Yash Raj Films.

The first song 'Gadbadi hadbadi' is sung by composer Salim himself. It is full of punch and is an energetic number. The song has a rock feel owing to its orchestration. It gets an edge when it slows down in between and then again gains momentum.

Next is a beautiful number 'Pankho ko' crooned by Benny Dayal. The song has a certain raw appeal and the lyrics are insightful and intriguing. The strumming of the guitar makes it soft and soothing to the ears. The track holds the interest of the listener right till the end.

Finally, we have the title track that is doing the rounds of TV channels. 'Pocket mein rocket' has Vishal Dadlani behind the mike and is a fun song. The foot-tapping number will be liked by many.

Other than these, the album has bonus tracks like 'Chak de' ('Chak De! India'), 'Chhaliya' ('Tashan'), 'Dance pe chance' ('Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi'), 'Dil haara' ('Tashan'), 'Haule haule' ('Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi'), 'Jogi mahi' ('Bachna Ae Haseeno'), Khuda jaane' ('Bachna Ae Haseeno') and 'Lucky boy' ('Bachna Ae Haseeno').

The album might have just three original songs but they are appealing and quite interesting.
Ruchika Kher

Salman and Aishwarya in Ajab Hai Ishq?

2009-11-27T08:40:00.001+05:30

Lyricist cum director Javed Akhtar might have just done the impossible of casting Aishwarya Bachchan and Salman Khan for his upcoming movie. Tentatively titled Ajab Hai Ishq, Javed has already cast Salman will be playing the lead role. There is buzz around the B-Town that Javed is trying to rope in Aishwarya to star opposite Salman in the loves story.

Salman and Aishwarya had starred together only once in their career in Sanjay Leela Bhansali directed Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam. The movie which was shot when Salman and Aishwarya were going around with each other went on to become one of the biggest hits of their career. The couple split two year later after Aishwarya alleged being physically abused by Salman.

Tags: aishwarya bachchan, salman khan, ajab hai ishq, hum dil de chuke sanam, javed akhtar, subhadeep bhattacharjee.
source:http://entertainment.oneindia.in/bollywood/gupshup/2009/salman-aishwarya-together-251109.html

Vidya Balan on being abusive!

2009-11-22T15:59:00.000+05:30

The actress talks about delivering slangs for her character in Ishqiya

Mouthing expletives for her role in Ishqiya embarrassed Vidya Balan as she says she never uses foul language in real life.

"Oh! I was very apprehensive while using those slangs. I have never used them in my real life but I had to because the script demanded. When you will see this movie, you will understand that it is justified. The movie belongs to a certain terrain where slangs are part of their lingo," said Vidya.

The actress also revealed that she never rehearsed on the sets because of the heavy dose of slangs in the dialogue.

"I never rehearsed on the sets as I used to feel awkward. So I used to come prepared on the sets and once the director used to say action, I used to forget everything and everyone.

"All my inhibitions used to go away and I used to deliver my dialogues perfectly. This is what happens to me when the camera starts rolling," said Vidya.

Set in eastern Uttar Pradesh, Ishqiya is a tale of romance between individuals caught in a web of crime, suspense, passion and deceit. Directed by first time director Abhishek Chaubhey and produced by Vishal Bharadwaj, the film also stars Arshad Warsi and Naseeruddin Shah.

Review:Kurbaan

2009-11-21T20:32:00.000+05:30

New Delhi, Nov. 21 -- No police. I'm gonna deal with them myself," says Vivek Oberoi's Ayaaz, I suspect, to his audience's gentle snigger. This gent, who can slip in and out of an American accent at free will, is a TV reporter. And evidently, part-Rambo in his head as well. He gets a fine lead into a major case: massive mid-air bombing of a UN plane, which had carried with it his girlfriend (Diya Mirza). The huge American security establishment could benefit from this inside info, unearth a crucial terror network. Ayaaz, for some reason, doesn't trust the FBI. He's no one's moll (unlike Neil Nitin Mukesh's character in a similar but much superior film New York, earlier this year). He launches himself instead into a secret, self-funded, one-man mission; plants himself within a sleeper terror cell; becomes one of them; almost kills another man to preserve his identity. This movie is actually not so much about this lunatic move.

It could then be about a well-educated professor of Psychology (Kareena Kapoor) at a New York university, who's just moved back from India. She's married to one (Saif Ali Khan, mid-age showing) who turns out to be a terrorist himself. The two had met as colleagues at an Indian college. He had wooed her for her US passport alone: a rather poor one of the many possible plans to sneak into America. The girl's father had disapproved of their inter-faith marriage initially.

This father has a terrorist for house-guest. The daughter's an upwardly mobile woman of the world. A few text messages to the right sources, contact with friends and acquaintances, or calls to colleagues at work, could help ease her problem. She largely remains locked up mute; prefers the occasional well-executed snog with a husband she never had.

The script, with hardly a seamless quality, seems pretty much, what they call 'man ghadant' (a perennially reworked spinning a yarn of sorts). The lead couple lives in a Muslim neighbourhood in suburban New York. Each of the neighbours in this 'Arlington Road' - Afghans (Kirron Kher), Pakistanis (the gray-hero Saif) - has a bone or the other to pick with Americans. There is some honesty in the picture's wordy purpose: to put into some perspective the junoon (passion) for jihad. But it's merely the speeches that are political; their pains are personal, not a work of indoctrination. Their grand plans don't seem associated with any larger global outfit either. They appear at best a rag-tag cottage firm out to bomb and bleed America to death. There's a reason America hasn't witnessed even a half-scale attack within its shores since September 11, 2001: the date being an anomaly to world history. That's because it's all never as simple as this film makes it seem: Saif's Riyaz escaping crackling street shootouts with FBI; relentless crossfires inside trains; bombs being disposed off at various corners of New York City; hardcore exchange of fire at tube stations. This, when for the most part the film retains its quiet, somber tone; each frame sensitively lit and tightly photographed to a near calm, visual perfection. What you may brave through then is a flick neither real or serious enough to be a meditation on global terror, nor sweetly suspended and adequately brain-dead to be Die Hard. It's hard to be both. The hardship shows. mayank.shekhar@hindustantimes.com Health

Hindustan Times

Paa Amitabh is an incredible human being: Aishwarya

2009-11-21T20:26:00.002+05:30

The Bachchans just can’t ask for a better bahu than Aishwarya Bachchan. The former Miss World has been totally committed to the Bachchan family besides shooting films and commercials without break. She is equally excited about the Family banner ABCL’s Paa, though she is not part of the cast.

The fact is that she is supporting the film by taking up the responsibility as its marketing head. This is her way of reviving the family banner, which went bankrupt a few years ago following a series of flops and incurring a huge loss from organizing the Miss World contest in Bangalore in 1998.

Ash is all praise for her father-in-law and said that he is an incredible human being and a thorough professional. She added that she didn’t need to say these words but the fact is that he is leading an extremely busy life with lots of commitments.

She said that she met Auro, the character played by her father-in-law. She added that she dropped into the sets of Paa and couldn’t believe her eyes that the person sitting next to her hubby Abhishek was paa (Amitabh Bachchan).

Well, the much-hyped film Paa starring Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, Paresh Rawal and Vidya Balan is scheduled for release on December 6.

Tags: aishwarya bachchan, amitabh bachchan, paa, abhishek bachchan, vidya balan, raymond ronamai
source:http://entertainment.oneindia.in/bollywood/news/2009/aishwarya-amitabh-paa-211109.html

Katrina rubbishes marriage claims

2009-11-11T23:17:00.000+05:30

A marriage certificate in Indore (supposedly approved by the Municipal Corporation there) suggests that Katrina Kaif is married to local BJP MLA Ramesh Mendola. It also claims that the actress married him on December 2 last year. While the Indore Municipal Corporation has already issued a statement that the marriage certificate is totally fake and has not been issued by them, the actress is irritated with the news of her "marriage."

Katrina says, "Obviously, it's a fake certificate! I have never been married in my life and neither do I know this guy at all. It's stupid and illegal what he has done and the police have already filed a case against him. The cops called me to say that this man had issued a fake marriage and they are taking action against him. I guess the more famous you get, the more people do such silly things. I was in New York on December 2 shooting for New York — the day this man claims to have married me."

She continues, "We have all kind of crazy fans and people out there. Juhi Chawla's staff who now work with me tell me that even she used to face the same thing. And after a point, she stopped clicking pictures with fans because she had no control over where they would pop up or how they would be misused. I guess we all have to learn to handle such weird people sometimes. It's part of the life of a celebrity."

On a positive note, Katrina has reason to smile. Her last release Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani is doing good business, "The success of the film is really unexpected. Ajab will always be one of my most special films. It's a sweet and simple film that brought a smile to my face when I saw it and I have seen it three times till now. I feel I am blessed and this is God's special kindness to me. It's a love story between a a boy and a girl. Yashji (Chopra) had explained to me the importance of doing love stories."

Tags: katrina kaif, ramesh mendola.
source: http://entertainment.oneindia.in/bollywood/news/2009/katrina-rubbishes-marriage-111109.html

5 reasons to watch Tum Mile

2009-11-11T23:14:00.000+05:30

Bhatts are back with their latest offering ‘Tum Mile’. In trademark Bhatt style, the film might seem small in star-value but is big in content. We give you five Bhatt brand reasons on why to look forward to Tum Mile.

Storming successfully

The major USP of the film is that this is the first film to have the 26 July 2005 rain deluge as its backdrop. On that disastrous day, rains played havoc on Mumbai bringing the undying spirit of the city to a sudden standstill.

Kunal Deshmukh, who debuted with the surprise-hit ‘ Jannat ’ last year, has used 26 July as the backdrop to this sublime love story. Lovers trapped in natural disaster – that gives an interesting touch to the romance.

The entire thunderstorm sequences were recreated in huge sets erected at a studio at the outskirts of Mumbai. Some scenes will just blow you away with its intensity and remind you of Titanic.
source:http://movies.indiatimes.com/Features/5-reasons-to-watch-Tum-Mile/articleshow/5215169.cms

Kareena Kapoor to Represent Sony Vaio's 'Size Zero' Laptops

2009-11-07T19:53:00.000+05:30

We have all heard of size zero models but size zero laptops? Yep, you better believe it folks! Sony Vaio is coming out with a new series of super thin "Size Zero" laptops and who better to represent the brand than super thin Bollywood beauty Kareena Kapoor?

The "3 Idiots" star is no stranger to endorsing products. She is already the face of Garnier shampoo and Globus fashion, and now she has moved on to computers! And being a size zero is not something that Kareena is ashamed of. She said that "I think in India, size zero means being slim. Every girl wants to be really slim and I think I am quite slim. India's size zero is associated with me and I am proud of that."

So we guess it only makes sense for the "Kurbaan" actress to sign a deal with Sony Vaio’s for the tiny laptops! "I only lend my name to a brand that is suitable to my personality type. Vaio X is slim, stylish and sexy, something that I easily relate with," she insisted.

Do you think Kareena Kapoor is the right person to represent Sony Vaio's "Size Zero" laptops? Drop us a line.

Kareena Kapoor & Saif Ali Khan in Kurbaan

2009-11-06T22:40:00.000+05:30

Kareena Kapoor & Saif Ali Khan in Kurbaan - its a new movie being

No chaddi ads for Saif, no non veg brands for Kareena

2009-11-02T09:38:00.001+05:30

New Delhi, Oct 31 (IANS) Kareena Kapoor is clear she will never endorse food chains like McDonald's or Burger King, known for their beef burgers and the like, while co-actor and boyfriend Saif Ali Khan says he can't think of doing an underwear ad.

'I will not endorse non-vegetarian products like McDonald's or Burger King. I won't endorse alcohol or tobacco. This is the policy I always follow because if I don't relate to such things, I should not advocate them either,' Kareena said at the HT Leadership Summit here Saturday.

'Endorsing a brand is not only fun but it does add to the bank balance. Apart from that endorsing a good brand helps you in connecting with your fans. Given this, I have to be very choosy about my endorsements because they also help a lot in branding,' she added.

Kareena is the face of many leading brands like Kurkure Desi Beats and Vivel soap among others.

Saif, who promotes several brands including Head and Shoulders and Asian Paints, says it is important for him to connect with the brand he endorses.

'For me, brand name is very important. I feel I should represent a brand that I can connect with. This also helps me to reach out to my fans because they can associate with me through that brand. I won't endorse something I don't connect with... like underwear ads. I can do a baniyan (vest) ad, but no chaddis for me.

'It's not the finances always. When a brand approaches us, they do a lot of research before they come to sign us. And when they come to sign, that means you represent something. It also helps visibility,' he added.
Indo Asian News Service

No chaddi ads for Saif, no non veg brands for Kareena

2009-11-02T09:38:00.000+05:30

We are in no rush to get married: Saif-Kareena

2009-10-31T21:35:00.001+05:30

STAFF WRITER 14:31 HRS IST
New Delhi, Oct 31 (PTI) Bollywood superstars Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor have no plans to get married soon as they believe that this might impact their career.

The Bollywood stars, who have been constantly surrounded by wedding rumours since they started dating two-years ago, said that they are happy to be in love and would like to focus on their career and relationship at this point of time.

"We have not really addressed that issue (marriage).

We do talk about it but right now I think Saif wants to set up his production house and I want to do some more great roles," Kareena said, while speaking at the HT Leadership Summit.

Khan, who debuted as a producer recently with 'Love Aaj Kal' backed his lady love on the topic of marriage, saying, "There is no rush to get married.
source:http://www.ptinews.com/news/356053_We-are-in-no-rush-to-get-married--Saif-Kareena

Masand's movie review: London Dreams is a foolish film

2009-10-31T21:18:00.000+05:30

Cast: Ajay Devgan, Salman Khan, Asin

Direction: Vipul Shah

London Dreams, directed by Vipul Shah, is a frustratingly foolish film about foolish people.

It's the kind of film whose central conflict could be instantly resolved if the characters concerned simply sat down and had a chat. Ajay Devgan plays Arjun, an aspiring pop-artiste obsessed with performing before a cheering crowd at London's Wembley Stadium. He becomes jealous of his devoted best friend and band-mate Manu, played by Salman Khan, who is evidently more talented than him, but nowhere near as focused or ambitious.

Arjun decides to sabotage Manu when the latter's popularity threatens to outshine his own. Now here's where a heart-to-heart might have helped. Had Arjun explained what this Wembley fixation meant to him, Manu would have graciously backed off and let Arjun fulfill his childhood dream, and we'd have been spared the agony of watching the rest of this uninspiring drivel. But director Vipul Shah and his writers are in no mood to do us any favours.

London Dreams is packed with unintentionally hilarious gems like that back-story involving Arjun's grandpa who committed suicide out of shame for getting stage-fright at a packed Wembley concert. Or the ridiculous incident at a show where Manu must take over vocal responsibilities after a blast of confetti practically chokes Arjun into silence.

The idiocy, however, doesn't end there. In his attempts to shame Manu publicly, Arjun uses his connections to get Manu hooked onto drugs. A buxom groupie urges Manu to down a couple of tequila shots with her but replaces his salt with cocaine. Before you know it, Manu has acquired quite the appetite for the addictive white powder, practically chomping it down like dinner.

If that isn't silly enough, there's a crude scene later in which Manu chases after the said girl to find out who she's been taking orders from. The pursuit ends in a dark London alley where the girl gets down on her knees pretending to do the unmentionable so as to mislead Manu's girlfriend who's been secretly following after them.

Wait, there's more! Expect to howl hysterically when Arjun snaps off his belt and whips himself mercilessly to banish all thoughts of romance or lust towards the band's lead dancer Priya (played by Asin) because nothing and no one must distract him from his musical goals.

Too generously inspired by Milos Forman's Amadeus for it to merit any comparison with last year's Rock On!, Vipul Shah's latest is a clunky melodrama that's as loosely directed as it is scripted. The film goes for broad humor, over-the-top emotions, and basically chooses loudness over subtlety. That works for Manu's character, with Salman Khan playing him all loutish and lovable, but in the case of Arjun, Ajay Devgan comes off too passive with a performance that is mostly internalised.

When Arjun does reach boiling point however, it results in an awkward pre-climax scene in which he lectures a packed concert hall and is understandably pelted with plastic bottles as punishment. Of the remaining cast, there's not a kind word I can say for Asin, who practically lit up Ghajini with her ebullient charm, but disappoints here with unnecessary over-acting in a thankless role.

Ranvijay Singh and Aditya Roy Kapur, reduced to mere sidekicks in the band, show up at regular intervals, usually to utter some inane dialogue like, "We'll rock it dude!"

For its dim-witted writing and sloppy direction, London Dreams is ultimately a tiresome watch. I'm going with two out of five and at best an average rating for director Vipul Shah's London Dreams.

If you must, watch it for Salman Khan who's turned buffoonery into a bonafide acting style. It's the only thing that'll make you smile in this sad, sad film.
source:http://ibnlive.in.com/news/masands-movie-review-london-dreams-is-a-foolish-film/104300-17.html

Kareena, Shahid no longer in touch

2009-10-30T23:21:00.000+05:30

When Kareena Kapoor dated Shahid Kapur, she boldly accepted and like other actresses she did not name their relationship as friendship and now that she has broken up with him and dating Saif Ali Khan, she declared the world that she is in love with Saif. She is a woman who speaks her mind out and never feels hesitate to share her feelings to the world.

But when news is doing the rounds that Shahid Kapur’s father Pankaj Kapur is penning a script keeping Kareena Kapoor in mind, Bebo openly declared that she is no more in touch with Shahid. But added that in the past she had shared a wonderful relationship with Shahid and not in touch with him now. She also said that though they drifted apart but they could wish each other well. She always makes sure that she asks him about his well-being.

Kareena cuts off with Shahid personally but professionally she wished to link up with him. Commenting in acting on Pankaj Kapur’s script, she said, "If they have a good script and a good role and ask me to do it, I see no reason why I shouldn’t."

Hrithik gets cosy with another woman

2009-10-30T23:15:00.001+05:30

Though Hrithik is paired opposite Aishwarya Rai in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Guzaarish, it's Monikangana Dutta who will get to perform all the intimate scenes with the actor.

Monikangana Dutta plays Hrithik's former love interest in Guzaarish and Bhansali wants to establish a sizzling chemistry between the two. So expect oodles of intimate scenes. The newcomer of course is quite nervous and has been talking to Sussanne Roshan to ease her nerves.

Who can forget how Hrithik Roshan's cosy chemistry with Barbara Mori became talk of the town. And we wonder, if rumourmongers will leave the very married man and his lady out of unnecessary gossip sessions.

The intimate scenes will be shot during the film's next schedule in January in Goa.

Review: Aladin has special effects, and many defects

2009-10-30T23:11:00.001+05:30

Aladin is not really Aladin. Is that too confusing? It shouldn't be. It's simple. This film is not what it's meant to be. Director Sujoy Ghosh and company may like you to believe that the inspiration for the film is the popular Arabian tale, but in reality they have lifted the plot straight out of a children's series we know as Harry Potter.

Picture this: Aladin's parents were killed when he was a kid during a tussle between a good genie, Genius (Bachchan) and an evil genie, Ringmaster (Dutt). Just before dying, Aladin's mother made a wish to Genius to ensure that Aladin is safe. Years later, when Aladin's all grown up, Genius has to protect him from Ringmaster. And why does Ringmaster want to kill Aladin? Because only one among the two is destined to live - the other has to die.

If that description makes you feel that Aladin is similar to Harry, Genius to Dumbledore, Ringmaster to Voldemort and Aladin's mom to Lily Potter, you aren't wrong. So why call it Aladin you say? That one's difficult to answer.

Of course there's Jasmine (Fernandes), who Aladin has to woo. He wastes his three wishes in doing so, even though she's clearly interested in him anyway. "I should warn you that you are not utilising your three wishes well," says Genius to Aladin. You want to tell him the same.

Meanwhile, you secretly wish for three things yourself. In the first half you wish for the interval, in the second half you wish for the film to end, and when the film still doesn't end, you once again wish for it to end.

Sadly, this one takes forever to wrap up. Sujoy Ghosh may have had an ambitious plot - a SFX-laden fantasy like this needs a big scale, which it has - but his treatment bores you to death. Some of the scenes seem so pointless, you fervently pray for some 'magic' to make the drama livelier.

In stead, you get scenes like the one where Jasmine is walking away from Aladin and Genius tells him, "Agar woh palat ke tumhe dekhe, iska matlab hai ke woh tumse pyar karti hai." Even as you are amazed at the 'originality' of the dialogue, he goes, "Palat." Now where have we seen that scene before!?

To watch Amitabh mouth the dialogues is even more painful. The only few minutes of the film that interest you a little are when Amitabh entertains you with his antics, but a lot of them irritate you too. Most Bachchan disasters in the last few years have been with young directors who want to explore an image that Bachchan so popularly displayed in the 70s, when they weren't around themselves.

While there has been some success in Sarkar and Khakee, others like Ram Gopal Varma Ki Aag and Ek Ajnabee have been disasters. This one seems to follow the same path. Ghosh, in his over excitement of having the legend in his film, has almost forgotten that the central character of the film should have eventually been Aladin. In stead, Aladin is a mere bystander, while Bachchan gets to do it all, even 'kill' Ringmaster in the end, although Aladin is supposed to be the 'chosen one.'

Riteish is alright in the title role. Jacqueliene, in her debut film, looks promising. Extremely good looking, she has good screen presence and a sweet smile. Acting will follow, hopefully.

Sanjay Dutt has five scenes in all. If the character doesn't make an impact, it's only because it's half baked. He, however, has some interesting dialogues. "Kitna bore karoge Genius," he tells Amitabh at one point. You couldn't agree more.

Now, Kareena's ready to sell time!

2009-10-27T21:13:00.000+05:30

Bollywood stars may be the most unpunctual set on earth but they can be very good at selling time.

Kareena Kapoor is the latest star, who has been roped in as the brand ambassador of a new Italian watch called Chronotech.

The actress shot for the Chronotech commercial in two sizzling get-ups -- a Cat Woman and a Mermaid look.

While we wait for Kareena to tell us the time, Italian style, here are the others who have endorsed it in their own style.

Image: Kareena Kapoor

Katrina kaif , Karina kapoor; KK LOVES KK!

2009-10-25T11:44:00.000+05:30

A certain Ms. Turquotte really is an admirer of a certain Ms.Kapoor! No no, this isn’t the latest gossip from your local kitty party. The women involved just happen to be the highest paid hotties of Bollywood Katrina and Kareena.

After long speculation of whether the beauties were having a cold war or not, Katrina has apparently laid the unsavory rumors to rest. She was heard gushing that Kareena is a fantastic performer and that she really admires the strong willed, independent and multi faceted Bebo. If that seems a little too sweet and generous to be genuine, then fans across the country agree. In the dog eat dog world of Bollywood, no one does anything without a reason. Maybe catty Kat has just found a new way to rub it in the faces of all the other actresses. She is showing them that she can afford to be good to them as she is fast becoming the undisputed queen of the box-office where remunerations and endorsements are concerned.

She was declared by Google to be the ‘Most Searched Celebrity of 2008’ and Mattel is all set to fashion it’s latest Barbie doll on her lithe frame and pretty face. That indeed is a formidable repertoire of achievements and the glam girl isn’t going to sit quiet about it. Only time can tell which actress will be her next target. Now that is a valuable lesson to be learnt from the politically correct Katrina Kaif. Maybe RAJNEETI is fast wising up the ex-supermodel where media intrigues are concerned.
source;http://www.newspostonline.com/entertainment/katrina-kaif-karina-kapoor-kk-loves-kk-2009102572380

Akshay will romance Katrina in Blue sequel

2009-10-25T11:27:00.001+05:30

It seems Akshay Kumar cannot get away from his lady luck Katrina Kaif. He may possess oodles of talent but when it comes to cast heroine opposite him, the first name that strikes him is of Katrina Kaif. He just cannot get away from her. She is his lucky mascot. Kat is again paired opposite Akshay in ‘Blue’ sequel.

Akshay and Katrina’s on-screen chemistry always sizzles. Their list of hits crossing the chart, Hum Ko Deewana Kar Gaye, Namastey London, Welcome, Sing Is Kinng and the recently released Blue. In Blue Kat has been paired opposite Zayed Khan and Akki was left without any lady but in the sequel titled, ‘Aasman’, he will star opposite Katrina.

Three new names is added to the sequel, John Abraham, Sonal Chauhan and Neha Uberoi. Zayed will romance Neha Uberoi, John will have Sonal and Akki as usual Katrina.

On looking at the box office record, director Anthony D’Souza and the producers became keen on making its sequel. The film will start off from sea adventure and then move to the sky.

Amrita Rao | Hot Amrita Rao Photos, Amrita Rao Wallpapers

2009-10-24T08:50:00.000+05:30

Amrita Rao’s birthdate is on the 7th of June. She was born in 1981 in Mumbai. she is an Indian model and Bollywood actress. Her father is Deepak Rao who runs an advertising agency. She belongs to a Brahmin family in Mangalore in Karnataka. She speaks Marathi, Hindi, English and her mother tongue, Konkani. She studied at C.G. High School and later graduated with a degree in Psychology from Sophia College.

Amrita’s Philosophy of life is Life is short and sweet, so make others happy and never let anyone down. Amrita Rao’s younger sister Preeta Rao is a journalist/columnist and a movie critic.

Akshay Kumar first in the run race: Salman, Sanjay, Ajay all left behind

2009-10-21T16:11:00.000+05:30

By Gillian
Mumbai: Akshay Kumar’s Blue, Salman Khan’s Main aur Mrs Khanna and All The Best which starred Sanjay Dutt and Ajay Devgan were released last week.

akshay-kumar-first-in-the-run-race-salman-sanjay-ajay-all-left-behind

With three releases on the same day, heat was turning up and competition was red hot.

According to trade analysts it is said that Blue is first in the run race, followed by All The Best in the second spot and Salman’s film is far behind in the race at the third spot.

Seems like Akki is able to cash in with his ‘lucky charm’ Kat in the film.
source:http://www.duniyalive.com/?p=69766

Sa Re Ga Ma Pa to end with London Dreams

2009-10-21T15:48:00.000+05:30

While the world waits with bated breath to find out the winner of the popular title of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Little Champs (on Zee TV), the team of London Dreams, going the whole hog on the film's marketing, is gearing up to make it an event to remember!

Salman Khan, Asin and director Vipul Shah will be present at the grand finale on Saturday 24th October to bless the contestants. The much talked about show will see its entertaining culmination in a larger than life LIVE telecast from the historic India Gate in Delhi. Not only will two of the stars of London Dreams interact with the contestants but are likely to perform impromptu to their hit track Mann Ko Ati Bhaave from the same film.

Commenting on the association, Vipul Shah stated, "Sa Re Ga Ma Little Champs is an immensely popular show and showcases rare talent. What can be a better opportunity for the kids
to meet Salman Khan. Salman is very excited at the prospect of being on the show and having fun and interacting with his fans and audience! Watch out for some great action from the team at the grand finale!"

Tags: sa re ga ma pa little champs, london dreams, salman khan, asin thottumkal.

Related Movies: London Dreams (salman khan, Asin Thottumkal), London Dreams (Salman Khan, asin thottumkal)
source:http://entertainment.oneindia.in/television/top-stories/news/2009/sa-re-ga-ma-pa-london-dreams-211009.html

I know I am desirable: Amrita Rao

2009-10-18T07:36:00.001+05:30

Press Trust Of India
Mumbai, October 16, 2009

Actress Amrita Rao, who has shaken off her girl-next-door image with a sexy makeover, is the latest covergirl of the men's magazine Maxim and believes that she is one of the most desirable actors in Bollywood.

The 28-year-old actress who played the coy beauty in films like Vivaah and Ishq Vishq went for a glamorous makeover for Shortcut and she continues to sizzle on the cover of the magazine's October issue.

"Gracing the cover of India's largest selling men’s magazine was a fantastic opportunity and it just goes to show that I am one of the most desirable actors in tinsel town," said Amrita Rao in a press statement.

The actress who had reportedly gone under the knife to boost her assets, was photographed wearing a curve-hugging white mini said that she was happy with the cover as it made her look sexy without baring it all.

"Maxim represents the sensual woman, the woman within, who reveals her darkest, sauciest secrets. I loved the cover a lot as it portrayed me as natural and sexy without baring everything," said the actress.

The magazine is known for it's daring covergirls like Minissha Lamba, Neetu Chandra, Sheryln Chopra and Jiah Khan.
Source: http://www.hindustantimes.com/I-know-I-am-desirable-Amrita-Rao/H1-Article1-466076.aspx

Diwali fever grips nation

2009-10-18T07:28:00.000+05:30

NEW DELHI: Adorned in new clothes, Delhiites on Saturday began their Diwali celebrations with firecrackers, greetings, sweets and prayers for prosperity.

Many thronged temples, distributed sweets and sent "Happy Diwali" greetings to friends and relatives, with SMS messages going to and fro all the time.

After people had cleaned and decorated their homes with colourful rangolis and flowers on doorsteps, prayers floated in the morning air. Goddess of prosperity Lakshmi was invoked in many homes.

Radhika Mishra, a marketing professional, said: "I got up early and went to the temple with my family. We also picked flowers and like every year my sister and I will decorate the courtyard with rangolis and diyas."

Boxes of sweets were exchanged, and firecrackers and diyas (earthen lamps) were readied for the evening festival of lights.

In the evening, millions of lights from tiny earthen diyas to dazzling strings of electric bulbs will light up homes, factories and offices.

Homemaker Shuchi was busy cooking up a storm. She said: "I like to make the sweets myself and don't buy from the market. After the sweets are ready we will visit our relatives and friends, carrying gifts."

Sanjay Singh said he "didn't want to miss out on the festivities and fun" and purchased firecrackers worth Rs.2,000.

Expecting brisk business from last-minute buyers, confectioners opened early.

Many people have extended their Diwali weekend and taken a small vacation.

"I took the opportunity to go to Jodhpur with my wife. She was eager to see how the festival is celebrated in Rajasthan," Prateek Shah, an engineer, told IANS.

Delhi Police beefed up security in all major markets on the occasion of the popular festival. Additional police personnel have been deployed to keep vigil. The fire service department too has geared up by mobilising its entire fleet.

Festive mood gripped Bangaloreans as the three-day Diwali celebrations began with lights, colours and a bit of caution.

Hundreds of homes across the city were decorated with strings of small bulbs of various colours while over the next three nights, traditional diyas will add a touch of tradition to the festival of lights.

"I am going to enjoy Diwali fully. I know the state has been stuck by tragedy as floods have ravaged north Karnataka, but I want to forget all the sad incidents of past and want to welcome a new beginning for all by celebrating Diwali," Santosh Nair, a techie, told IANS.

Echoing Santosh, BPO employee Soma Saha said Diwali is a festival of lights when one prayed for happiness of all.

"Let us pray for a better future for all," said Soma during her last minute shopping for Diwali at Brigade Road, Bangalore's popular shopping hub.

As people, particularly youth look forward to bursting crackers in the evenings, experts have advised the revellers to stay away from firecrackers as much as possible.

The advice is not only because of possible burn injuries but also due to the high levels of pollution the city is suffering from.

According to Karnataka State Pollution Control Board, Diwali celebrations in Bangalore during 2008 led to a high level of Respiratory Suspended Particulate Matter (RSPM).

Bangalore generally has RSPM level of 73 mg/m3. However, Diwali 2008 saw it rise to 159 mg/m3.

In order to deal with any emergency health related cases, several helplines have been opened by various hospitals in the city.

As eye-related cases see a rise in the city during Diwali, Narayana Nethralaya, a leading eye hospital, will remain open 24 hours for the next three days.

Bengalis in the city are adding to the cultural scene by bringing in wandering minstrels - the Baul-Fakir singers - to enthrall Bangaloreans Saturday evening.

Source:http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Diwali-fever-grips-nation/articleshow/5134311.cms

No problems with Sanjay Dutt, says Akshay

2009-10-18T07:06:00.001+05:30

Akshay Kumar is tired of replying to queries about his so-called rivalry with Blue co-star Sanjay Dutt. Setting the record straight, he says this is a figment of someone's imagination and they don't have any problems whatsoever with each other.

"Please, in this forum, let me state this for perhaps the last time ever - 'There are no problems between Sanjay Dutt and me," Akshay told IANS.

Since the shooting of Blue commenced around a year ago, there was talk of tension between the two stars.

"Yeh sab bekaar ki baatein hain (all this is ridiculous talk). People can imagine something and start writing about anything that comes to their mind. We live in times when such unnecessary gossip makes headlines.

"In fact, I went for Mata Ki Chowki (prayer function) at his place. Would I have done that had there been any problems between us?" asked the actor who is currently shooting for Houseful.

Akshay and Sanjay haven't worked in a film together for a long time. Their last release was director Raj N. Sippy's Amaanat, which had incidentally released on October 14 in 1994. Now, after exactly 15 years, the two actors are seen again in Blue.

What took them so much time to patch up?

"What patch up?" asked Akshay in an exasperated tone. "Rani Mukerji has been around for 13 years. Her first film was Raja Ki Aayegi Baaraat (1996). Still, both of us have never worked together. Does it mean that we were having a rivalry of sorts and hence would require some kind of patch-up to prove to the world that everything is fine between us?"

He is also happy to declare that Sanjay is the hero of the film and he is the villain.

"That's the fact. He is not just a hero but also has a heroine (Lara Dutta) opposite him. On the other hand, I have sharks as my leading ladies. I don't mind though. It's still better than having none at all. Remember, in Hera Pheri, Suniel Shetty had Tabu while I was without a heroine," joked Akshay.

Isn't he bothered about the fact that he won't be hogging all the limelight?

"It is not always the matter of footage. It's about how far you can indeed go in the role that you get to play in the film. You can be a villain and still make an impact. I have just followed Tony's vision here. Whatever he asked me to do, I did it. If Blue works (and I am positive it will), all credit goes to Tony. He has done a tremendous job."

Also starring Katrina Kaif and Kylie Minogue, Blue is releasing Friday.

Will Blues end for Bollywood?

2009-10-18T06:51:00.000+05:30

MUMBAI: Even for a Diwali feast, the platter has never been so full of choice—Salman Khan, Akshay Kumar, Ajay Devgan, Sanjay Dutt, not to forget Kareena Kapoor, a sizzling Lara Dutt and Bipasha Basu and even Katrina Kaif with a special appearance by Kylie Minologue thrown in for the festive spirit. Phew! Three releases and much debate, will they work the box-office magic? Is three, company or competition? With close to Rs 200 crore riding, not a celebratory year so far, a nail-biting climax to 2009 is what everyone is expecting from Bollywood.

Ashtavinayak’s Blue with its huge reported cost of production (COP) of Rs 85 crore was, of course, the high risk one.

Followed by Ajay Devgan’s All the Best, at Rs 40 crore, and Sohail Khan’s Main Aur Mrs Khanna, also at Rs 40 crore. Add print and publicity, which in layman’s terms means ‘hype’ , and the numbers just skyrocket by crores, specially Blue, which is believed to have spent close to Rs 15-18 crore in creating the buzz.

So what are the Friday soothsayers saying? First the plexes, which collectively contribute above 60% of all opening figures. The buzz spend on Blue looks like its worked with a reported 85% opening across screens. While Ajay Devgan has managed to tickle the funny bone of viewers and also got a decent opening of 50%, Salman and Kareena have managed to woo an average 35% as well.

“Since all three films are from different genres , we’ve given them an equal number of shows. Each film has 150 shows across our 76 screens,” says Devang Sampat, senior vicepresident , Cinemax, who agrees Blue’s has worked for now.
Yet, the sweat on the brow is for Blue, with close to Rs 100 crore invested can Dhillin Mehta, chief executive officer of Ashtavinayak Cine Vision recover his money?

For one, IDBI, his bankers who have lent the highest they have to any film (Rs 40 crore) have been given back their money. But the risks all lie with Mr Mehta. His two distributors-PVR who have picked up North and UP and Shemaroo which has picked up International have struck a deal of advance payment.

This means if Blue draws viewers, then whatever their losses they will be paid back by Mr Mehta unlike a minimum guarantee where the risks is shared. Mr Mehta though is not scared. He is, in fact, confident with the response of 1800 print and 2,250 screens cashing in big for him. “Cash flows are not a problem in Diwali and the response has surpassed our initial expectations. All morning shows on Friday have been running to full houses across the country,” says a confident Mehta who had just come out of a meeting with his distributors.

While Mr Mehta’s calculates half his net return from theatrical revenue and also sees a big chunk coming from satellite, the industry opinion is divided, with Blue not really being a satellite audience movie.
Adding all revenues, Mr Mehta’s supporters see his big budget gamble possibly break even with some Luck thrown in, while industry sees at least a Rs 20-25-crore loss.

Shemaroo Entertainment, which holds the international distribution rights for Blue, is making sure they go all out. “For such a big-budget film where the stakes are high you need to go all out which we are doing,” says Hiren Gada, director , Shemaroo.

The film saw a day and date release in over 20 countries and also a Tamil and Telugu release.

For Salman and Ajay meanwhile, the risk factor is less and the genres have been tried and tested. Sohail Khan has already netted in Rs 11 crore from music and home video rights of Main Aur Mrs Khanna. With a decent opening, looks like both All the Best and Main Aur Mrs Khanna will do a decent collection.

BLUE Movie Review

2009-10-16T08:35:00.000+05:30

BLUE, the most awaited movie of the year, with its canvas as huge as the ocean, comes alive on the Hindi screen this Friday. Like every biggie, this one also comes with the baggage of monumental expectations. With tremendous hype surrounding it, the inescapable question that crosses your mind is, will BLUE live up to those colossal expectations?

It requires courage, willpower, fortitude, vision and of course, the financial backing to accomplish a project of this magnitude. And debutante director Anthony D'Souza puts his skills and the financial resources to best use. BLUE is not merely a stunning looking film, it's also a well structured film. Most importantly, it's a solid entertainer that packs in so much in those 1.58 hours.

Final word? Go, grab a ticket, if you haven't booked one yet. This under-sea treasure hunt is a kickass film. A must-see for all those who love adventure flicks.

BLUE is set in the sun-soaked white sand beaches of Bahamas. Sagar [Sanjay Dutt] is a simpleton, while his friend Aarav [Akshay Kumar] is a rich, ambitious businessman.

Sagar's brother Sameer aka Sam [Zayed Khan] has inadvertently managed to rankle the mafia in Bangkok [Rahul Dev]. He flees Bangkok and arrives in Bahamas. But the dangerous men reach Bahamas too. Sagar is the sole person who can bail him out from this crisis, but to save his brother, Sagar has to wrestle with the ghost of his dead father.

If you're a die-hard moviegoer, you'd draw parallels with a lot of international projects [especially THE DEEP] that were set in the ocean. In Bollywood, flashes of the Dharmendra - Jeetendra starrer SAMRAAT cross your mind instantaneously, but comparing the two is akin to comparing chalk and cheese.

BLUE grabs your attention from its opening titles itself. The marine life, which you may've watched on National Geographic Channel or Animal Planet, comes alive in all splendour at the start itself.

The story is uncomplicated and Anthony D'Souza garnishes it beautifully. If the aquatic life keeps your eyes wide open, the action sequences are sure to make your jaws drop to your knees. The bike chase at the start, yet another chase subsequently, the chase soon after the interval [atop a running train] is simply astounding.

Anthony's expertise comes to the fore in several sequences. One sequence that needs to be singled out is when Sanju narrates the tragic past, how he was responsible for his father's death. It's simply incredible!

Major portions of the film have been filmed in the ocean and you can't stop admiring and appreciating the enormous contribution of the underwater cinematographer [Pete Zuccarini]. The lighting in those sequences deserves special mention. Also, the underwater sequences, which feature aquatic life like puffer fish, stingrays and sharks, hold tremendous appeal. Cinematography [Laxman Utekar] is gorgeous.

On the flip side, the climax could've been more impactful. The villain's track looks cliched, but you tend to overlook the minor aberration since the film never falls prey to mediocrity.

Anthony D'Souza is a director to watch. This film has style as well as substance. Also, it requires courage and conviction to think out of the box and most importantly, execute the material with panache. There's not much scope for music in an action thriller, yet A.R. Rahman's score suits the requirements. The Kylie Minogue track - 'Chiggy Wiggy' - is already popular. Sanju and Lara's romantic track - 'Aaj Dil' - is sensuous. The song at the end credits - 'Fiqrana' - has a lot of energy.

Sound design [Resul Pookutty] is fantastic. Action scenes [James D. Bomalick and R.P. Yadav] are a treat and, in fact, one of the mainstays of the film. Dialogues [Mayur Puri] are effective, while the screenplay [Anthony D'Souza and Jasmine D'Souza] is well thought-out, especially towards the second hour.

Sanjay Dutt carries his part well, although he looks very well-fed in some scenes. Akshay Kumar steals the show with a sterling performance. This would easily classify amongst his best works. Zayed Khan is highly competent. This, despite the fact that he's sharing the screen space with two hugely experienced actors.

Lara Dutta has never looked so good before. Though the story revolves around the guys, you can't overlook Lara's small but significant contribution to the film. Katrina Kaif [sp. app.] looks gorgeous and performs exceedingly well. The feminine charm [at the start specifically] would send the youth in a frenzy. Rahul Dev is first-rate. Kabir Bedi is hardly there.

On the whole, BLUE has style as well as substance. The film has everything going in its favour, right from its incredible star cast to the superb action scenes to the hitherto unseen marine life to the tremendous hype and hoopla. At the box-office, BLUE will strike like a hurricane in the festive week. It should set new benchmarks in days to come. In short, the business will be humungous.

Wake up… it’s Sid on the house!

2009-10-12T21:56:00.001+05:30

On a particular day and time this week, anyone named Siddharth can watch Wake Up Sid for free. Conditions apply.

Adding novelty to marketing gimmicks, Karan Johar has planned a unique free show of Wake Up Sid. If your name is Siddharth, then you and a friend can watch Wake Up Sid for free.

This all expense paid show will be held this week. The modalities of this free show will soon be in place. The day, date and name of the multiplex will soon be known.

Karan Johar confirmed and said, "We are going to have a free show in all the metros in the country. Be it Pune, Bangalore, Mumbai or Kolkata, there will be a screening for all the Siddarth’s and one companion. Wake Up Sid is all about Siddarth becoming Sid and I think we owe that much to them. The show will be held at the same time on the same day in multiplexes. I am in the process of finalising the details."

The film’s director, Ayan Mukerji said, "I think it’s a great idea by Karan. When I was growing up Raj and Rahul were the names of guys around that age. However Siddarth is an old traditional name, but it is also new at the same time. It’s a cool name and a cool idea.”

Every Siddharth will need to have photo id for proof of his name.

Priyanka Chopra at inauguration of Global Cinema Festival 2009

2009-10-10T10:17:00.000+05:30

"Priyanka Chopra at inauguration of Global Cinema Festival 2009"

Kangana Ranaut in love with Barbara’s brother

2009-10-09T22:11:00.000+05:30

Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut is not one to cry over her broken relationships. After parting ways with boyfriend Adhyayan Suman, she wasted no time in finding a new love. It is said that she is madly in love with Kintaro Mori.

So, who is Kintaro Mori? Well, he is the brother of Barbara Mori, the heroine of Kites starring Hrithik Roshan. Interestingly, Kangana also acts in Kites. It is said that her closeness to Kintaro is the one of the reasons for her break-up with Adhyayan.

Kangana has been trying to keep her new relationship low following heart-breaking splits with Aditya Panscholi and Adhyayan in the past but it came into limelight at Hrithik Roshan’s birthday bash. They were also spotted together at various hotspots and nightclubs. It is also said that Kangana is helping out her boyfriend in Mumbai, who is trying to make it big in singing.

Well, Kangana seems to have moved on!

source - http://entertainment.oneindia.in

Acid Factory Movie Review-Acid Factory is worth a dip

2009-10-09T12:09:00.000+05:30

Movie -Acid Factory
Director - Suparn Verma
Cast - Fardeen Khan, Dia Mirza, Irrfan Khan, Manoj Bajpai, Dino Morea

Sanjay Gupta's back and yet again with a Hollywood film rip-off.

Taken from Hollywood’s 2006 psychological crime-thriller Unknown, Acid Factory too begins with the protagonists trapped in a chemical factory.

Admittedly, the plot arouses interest: you have six people trapped in an acid factory, and here's the best part—they don’t remember a thing.

Suffering from temporary amnesia, all six have forgotten their identities and how they got there. They get their clues from phone calls made by a mob boss (Irrfan Khan) and wonder who among them is their friend or the foe.

A cop (Gulshan Grover) is following Irrfan Khan’s lead and keeps losing trails blaming the criminals for being "bloody clever or bloody smart" without admitting he's bloody dumb.

The film then takes the predictable course – the six understand that a kidnapping has happened and try identifying the kidnappers from the hostages. This is the most interesting portion in the film that you wish was further exploited.

Had the makers delved into the suspicions, insecurities and hapless condition of the protagonists, the film could've made for a gripping brain-teaser.

Meanwhile, a hundred chases happen, cars get blown up, and people get killed. The ending gets wrapped up all too abruptly even delicately hinting at a sequel.

In true-blue Sanjay Gupta style, there's an item song that borders on soft porn, and the world of crime is portrayed as being inhabited by beautiful, rich, quirky people who travel in limousines and dress sharp.

Stunts, chases and fights take over the better part of the film. Also like in many Hindi films based abroad, all the protagonists are Indian right from the crime boss to the cop honcho.

The cast does exceedingly well. Manoj Bajpai adds humour as the eccentric but dangerous wheeler-dealer; Irrfan Khan makes for a spiffy crime lord; and Dino Morea is great fun as the wise-cracking loudmouth.

Dia Mirza, the only lady among the lads, acts her part perfectly even excelling in the stunts that one hears she performed herself.

Danny Denzongpa is dependably good. In the central roles, Fardeen Khan and Aftab Shivadasani are fairly good, though the rest of the cast proves to be the scene-stealers.

Music credited to five composers (Shamir Tandon, Manasi Scott, Gourov Dasgupta Bappa Lahiri, Ranjit Barot) is interesting and the background score is trippy fun. Technically the film is adept right from the action (Tinu Verma), editing (Bunty Nagi) to the sound (Resul Pookutty) and styling (Shantanu, Nikhil, Shaheed Aamir).

Director Suparn Varma (scriptwriter of films like Ugly Aur Pagli, Janasheen and Qayamat) had earlier made Ek Khiladi Ek Haseena in 2005. In Acid Factory, he attempts to add his own inputs while retaining the Sanjay Gupta approach of storytelling. To an extent, Acid Factory works as a gimmicky thriller but loses direction once the novelty wears off.

Verdict: Two-and-a-half stars

Tags: Acid Factory Movie Review, Acid Factory, Movie Review, Acid Factory sify review, Acid Factory review

Hot Amrita Rao Maxim India October 2009

2009-10-08T20:21:00.000+05:30

Amrita Rao – Maxim India (October 2009). Finally girl next door on the cover of Maxim India which was expected since her image make over attempt with Shortkut The Con is On. Amrita Rao dressed as per her latest image. She looks good in this type of dress but if you really ask me my opinion she is bit thin to don bikini , Minissha did this successfully now waiting to check if Amrita has the figure to look nice in bikini. I will post inside scans of Maxim soon. Till them enjoy, Amrita Rao on the Cover of Maxim magazine.

Click for Hot Amrita Rao Wallpaper

Kareena scared of Kajol!

2009-10-07T02:26:00.000+05:30

Though Kareena Kapoor and Kajol had once shared screen space in ‘Kabhie Khushi Kabhie Gham’, Kareena is still feeling shaky in acting alongside versatile Kajol in ‘Stepmom’. She in taking acting lesson quietly with the director of the film Siddharth Malhotra. Kareena also feels that the character that she is going to portray is very difficult and she needs proper taining.

"The last time I rehearsed for a part was for Vishal Bharadwaj's Omkara. But that was a more unconventional film and role where I had to get into a milieu and character I knew nothing about. But Stepmom is urban and very contemporary. I play a very normal metro-centric working girl," said Kareena.

The film is inspired by director Chris Columbus hit drama Stepmom and Kareena Kapoor is going to play the role which Julia Roberts had portrayed.

The shooting of the film will start from October end.

'I will mimic Big B in Bigg Boss'

2009-10-07T01:50:00.002+05:30

Stand-up comedian Raju Srivastav who is a housemate on Bigg Boss 3, is planning to entertain his viewers by imitating none other than the show's host, Amitabh Bachchan.

"Bigg Boss gives me the best opportunity to mimic Big B. Whatever he will do outside the Bigg Boss house, I will repeat it inside," Srivastav, whose most popular act is a spoof of Big B's superhit film Sholay, said.

"Years ago, I started my career as an Amitabh mimic. I have a lot of love and respect for Bachchan sahab. He is such a personality that neither I will get bored nor the public will be bored of watching me impersonate him," said Srivastav whose housemates include actress Shamita Shetty, item girl Sherlyn Chopra and Rakhi Sawant's mother.

The third season of the reality show grabbed headlines long before it hit the screens by roping in none other than the 'Shahanshah of Bollywood' to play pop philosopher who decodes the emotions and motives of the contestants.

The show has 13 celebrities locked up in the house for about 84 days under the surveillance of cameras, with each vying to win the show.

The result is plenty of intrigue, backbiting and backstabbing, but Srivastav is unperturbed. "All the politics doesn't bother me much. I will continue to make the audience and my housemates laugh through the show," Srivastav said.

Insisting that he loves doing household chores and would co-operate with his co-contestants, the comedian said, "I am good at doing kitchen work also. I like hygiene and cleanliness. I am even ready to clean the toilets."

When asked why he chose to be a part of the show, the 45-year-old said it would give him relief from his present hectic lifestyle. "It would be a change for me from my current lifestyle. I have been working very hard since the past few years, so it would be a sort of rescue for me from the day to day problems. I will rest in peace till I am evicted out," he said.

Abhishek and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan charged 25 crore

2009-10-04T09:30:00.000+05:30

New Delhi, Oct. 1 -- Bollywood is abuzz with rumours that golden couple Abhishek and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan have charged a whopping Rs 25 crore to appear in an ad for a beauty soap that Ash already endorses.

Father-daughter duo Anil and Sonam Kapoor have apparently charged Rs 15 crore for their very first ad together for a pen brand. Advertising gurus, however, have shot down the figures as "impossible" in the current economic situation.

Adman Prahlad Kakkar says, "25 crore! Ash charges Rs 4.5 crore for international brands and Rs 2 crore for Indian ones." He adds, "If they're getting Rs 25 crore for an ad, it better be steamy - both need to be in the same bath tub, minimally dressed, and Abhishek needs to wax his chest.

The ad should lead to a debate in Parliament and the country should come to halt for a month." Celeb manager Sonu Lakhwani says, "This figure is exaggerated given the state of the ad industry.

For a one minute ad, no brand would pay such an amount, no matter who the celebrity is." Though Anil is basking in the glory of Slumdog Millionaire, experts say he still can't get Rs 15 or even 10 crore for an ad, even if paired with his daughter.

Lakhwani says, "Sonam charges around Rs 1.5 crore for an ad and even if we add Anil's Slumdog charm, it still wouldn't touch 10 crore.".
Hindustan Times

Celina has close shave with death while on shoot

2009-10-03T19:42:00.000+05:30

Celina Jaitley certainly has an angel protecting her

For just recently, she found herself almost in Davy Jones’ locker. In this case, it’s the camera assistant, whose quick thinking and deft actions came to her rescue.

Recalling the incident, Celina says, “I escaped severe injuries by falling into shallow rocky seas from a great height. While shooting, the camera buggy was supposed to go past me while I was standing near an outcrop. But it swung out of control and I toppled, barely managing to grab a buggy rung. I lost my grip on that too but the camera assistant Ram Gopal Mishra grabbed me and that saved me.” All of this happened in just a few seconds. We hope Celina stays away from heights from now on!

Do Knot Disturb Review

2009-10-03T19:26:00.003+05:30

David Dhavan and Govinda have always formed a formidable box-office team. Movies like Shola aur Shabnam, Aankhen, Coolie No 1, Saajan Chale Sasural, Bade Miyan, Chhote Miyan and many others drew endless sniggers from the allegedly sophisticated but their manic energy certainly wowed the masses.

Film: Do Knot Disturb (Comedy)
Cast: Govinda, Sushmita Sen, Riteish Deshmukh, Lara Dutta, Ranvir Shorey, Rajpal Yadav, Sohail Khan, Rituparna Sengupta.
Director: David Dhawan
Duration: About two and 30 min

Theirs were honest, if lowbrow, fun. Even in recent times, the duo has produced the occasional box-office winner such as Partner (2007).

But everything in the world of films has a shelf life. And Do Knot Disturb, a bedroom farce that's only occasionally funny, gives you a feeling of old wine in new bottle.

Story goes like this: Hen-pecked Govinda is having a roaring affair with Lara Dutta. But to mislead the detective that his rich and suspicious wife Sushmita Sen has set upon him, he pays Riteish Deshmukh to pretend that the latter is actually Lara's lover. It's a perfect situation for farcical comedy. Dhawan tries his best to recreate the magic of old. Plenty of street-smart dialogues are woven around the similes of mobile phone, dvds and television to explain the pati, patni aur woh relationship: "Never attach your own tv to another person's dvd," for instance. But the movie never becomes the zany comedy it's supposed to be.

Like the director, Govinda tries hard too. And his loyal single-screen fans might still enjoy the way he says, Dolly, Dolly¸ Dolly, every time he sees the stunning Lara Dutta. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said of the movie's other beauty queen Sushmita Sen. The real scene stealer is Rajpal Yadav. Getting slapped was never funnier.

Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Sexy Priyanka Chopra in Saree

2009-10-02T10:29:00.000+05:30

Priyanka Chopra Looks so Hot and Sexy in This Saree. This is new fashion of pary wear saree. Take pally @ 100% left side and make right side free. It's Dostana Style.

Watch More Wallpapers of Priyanka Chopra

Katrina Kaif is an expert in performing stunts

2009-09-30T10:26:00.003+05:30

If you are impressed with the delicate beauties performing daring stunts at Akshay Kumar’s ‘Fear Factor- Khatron Ke Khiladi’, let us inform you that our lovely Bollywood actress Katrina Kaif is not behind in any way in performing daring stunts.

This hidden side of Katrina was revealed on the sets of Rajkumar Santoshi’s ‘Ajab Prem Ki Gazab Kahani’ where during a shoot in Goa, Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina Kaif had to get off from a jet ski onto a ladder hanging from a 200 ft overhead bridge. Where this Barbie Doll of tinsel town completed her stunt at an amazing speed, Ranbir was struggling with the same. In fact, Ranbir was so amazed and surprised by Katrina’s ability to do the stunt that he nicknamed her as ‘Rambo ki sister Sambo’.

“Katrina was so good in the action scenes that I actually named her ‘Rambo ki sister Sambo,” said Ranbir.

Ranbir Kapoor believes in quiet celebrations

2009-09-30T10:11:00.000+05:30

As Ranbir Kapoor turns 27, he has double reasons to celebrate as his birthday week will also see his much-awaited film ‘Wake Up Sid’ hit the screens. However, Ranbir does not believe in partying hard for his B’day and he intends to keep the celebration very quiet and subtle.

Elaborating on his birthday plans, Ranbir said, “I will be having a quiet dinner with my parents. My sister Riddhima and my brother-in-law Bharat are traveling this year. I’m a shy guy and I normally like having an intimate celebration rather than something ostentatious.”

He adds, “I’m not one of those guys for surprise parties. I feel awkward. I have no idea what Deepika has planned for me. I haven’t seen her for a few days because I have been in Bhopal and she was in Mumbai. However, I hope it isn’t too big a surprise because even she knows how reserved I am.”

Of course, he does not forget to mention his forthcoming release and says, “The best gift I can ask for this year is that everyone goes to see my film. I don’t know how to hardsell myself or my film but I can surely request people to see it.”

We wish all the luck for the birthday boy and hope that everyone ‘wake up’ for ‘Sid’!

Priyanka Chopra in White Dress

2009-09-28T13:03:00.000+05:30

From One of the website, i found this zakkas foto of priyanka chopra, looks so so so cute in this pic, so i post it here.

Priyanka Chopra | India Youth Icon Awards 2009

2009-09-28T12:07:00.000+05:30

Priyanka Chopra named the Videocon Youth Icon for Entertainment. She collected her award at a glittering ceremony held in New Delhi on 25th Sep 2009.

About Priyanka Chopra | Priyanka Chopra is one of the best actress in Bollywood. she looks good, gorgeous, sexy and glamorous. Specially my friend like priyanka chopra so i could not stop my self to post these pics. Atchually i also like priyanka chopra but my first choice is Preety Zinta.

Priyanka Chopra | Photo of Priyanka Chopra

2009-09-26T22:15:00.000+05:30

One of my best and Cute friend likes priyanka chopra too much, she use this photo of priyanka chopra in her social profile often. I have posted it here.

Sallu and Kat refrain from professing love

2009-09-26T09:12:00.000+05:30

Bollywood hottie Katrina Kaif visited Sallu in jail and Salman too has thrown birthday bashes for her. But still somehow the couple has always maintained a distance in public.

The duo has never been known for public display of their affection for each other. But recent incidents make us wonder if all's well between them.

The couple was not even seen talking with each other recently at Priyadarshan's party. Katrina mingled with fashion designer Rocky S while Salman was seen with other friends. Though they were seen together in a group of people but still not once were they spotted alone together. Also when they left the do, they went separate ways. They didn't leave together.

Salman apparently refused to acknowledge Katrina's presence at the Eid party that she had hosted for him. At this party also Salman and Katrina didn't talk much.

Media speculation is rife that the couple is drifting apart. We'd like to believe otherwise, but these latest incidents are food for thought, for sure!

Wann See Hot Katrina Kaif Wallpapers

Tum Mile is a perfect date album

2009-09-26T08:47:00.000+05:30

After London Dreams, here's another album without a female vocalist. But that is a small detail, as you may find it easy to be impressed by Pritam's latest offering.

Pritam has been hard at work, as is obvious form his recent repertoire. After the fire and brimstone All The Best, now you have Tum Mile -- an uncomplicated, accessible and candy-floss album.

Tum Mile, the title track comes in three versions, sung by three different artistes -- Neeraj Shridhar, Javed Ali and Shafqat Amanat Ali.

Shridhar's version, light-as-air frothy pop, sounds straight out of a girl band set. It is the kind of song you'd play on your first date, with chocolates and candies, satin ribbons and heart shaped balloons. Javed Ali's version is more glam-rock with very 80s' guitar solos, and tailor-made for a boy band. But what was that Last Christmas-inspired sax solo doing in the middle of it all? If you expect Shafqat Ali's rock version to get off on a fiery, pacey note, you're in for a surprise. It is slow, simmering, with all the requisite distorted guitar sounds one has now begun to expect from Pritam. Ali retains some of the classical flourish in this rock number, giving it an interesting twist. All three are hummable, and work like instant pick-me-ups.

Dil Ibaadat, by KK, is the kind of song that is easy to visualise on Emraan Hashmi [ Images ]. It has a bit of drama, a lot of style, hip with very slick productions values. As a bonus you get a catchy melody led by piano sounds and a bit of Afro-style vocals thrown in for coolth. KK does a rock version of the same song later, this time the guitars simply let go during the solos.

For Tu Hai Haqueeqat, Pritam moves to the very 'in' musical fad- new-age garage rock, characterised by repetitive power chord riffs. But Mohit Chauhan [ Images ] is as Indian as you can get and he does take on a very challenging number that tests both his range and dexterity.

A little slow, mellow but a little weak is O Meri Jaan by KK, which you may want to skip or sample on a rainy day depending on your mood.

Tum Mile is signature Pritam, urban, glamorous and unfussy. While we don't know if this can be clubbed with his all-time bests, it certainly has potential to hover somewhere near.

It does make for the perfect date album, especially if you still view the world through your rose-tinted glasses.

Lara, Sush patch up before Do Knot Disturb release

2009-09-26T08:24:00.000+05:30

They might be saying Do Knot Disturb on the big screen, but off screen they are just a laugh riot themselves. Promoting their upcoming movie, the Bollywood's comedy combo of David Dhawan and Govinda not just kept poking fun at each other, but even made bêtes noires Sushmita Sen and Lara Dutta crack some jokes too.

If Govinda was enacting David, then the latter literally gave a demonstration of the film's title - Do Knot Disturb - fun behind closed doors.

If the Jodi No 1 was at its entertaining best, it was time to clear some controversies too as Sushmita and Lara took this opportunity to clear the air about the 'cold vibes' that they did not share.

Sushmita, who won the Miss Universe title six years before Lara did it in 2000, dismissed any rift with the latter. In a lighter vein she said that had there been any differences between them they would have pulled each other's hair.

"We had a great rapport, we have a lot in common," Sushmita said.

Lara grabbed the opportunity to cement the ties further. "It is the first time two Miss Universes are coming together in the world," she said.

Sushmita went on to say, "I hogged chocolate fudge. I had to come back to being me. Aap logon ne meri bahut tareef ki (You people have praised me a lot). Thanks! David, you put me through a lot of fun."

It seemed the film crew not just had fun shooting it but was also ensuring a healthy platform for a wonderful release on October 2.

Source: indiatoday.intoday.in

What's Your Raashee? epic-size failure

2009-09-26T07:58:00.000+05:30

Cast: Priyanka Chopra, Harman Baweja

Director: Ashutosh Gowariker

There is no easy way to say this. Ashutosh Gowariker's What's Your Raashee? is an excruciatingly painful film to watch. For the most part humorless and misguided, the film lumbers along for an unforgivable three-hours-and-thirty minutes, during which even the most patient viewers might contemplate suicide.

Harman Baweja stars as Yogesh Patel, an unmarried Gujarati boy working in Chicago, who is desperately summoned home as the last rescue for his debt-ridden family in Mumbai. He will inherit his grandfather's property on marriage, and hence his folks persuade him to tie the knot immediately so they can pay off their loans. Despite his reluctance, Yogesh succumbs to the emotional blackmail and says yes to be married in ten-odd days, after agreeing to meet a dozen prospective brides, one each from the 12 zodiac signs or raashees.

Using what is unquestionably an interesting plot device, the director casts Priyanka Chopra as each of the dozen girls. Within the film, however, the resemblance between the prospective brides is justified by using a ridiculous explanation offered by Yogesh's grandfather.

The encounters between Yogesh and each of the girls get repetitive soon enough, and the screenplay slips into something of a cyclic mess, with each meeting-scene between boy and girl predictably followed by a song.

It takes extremely skilled writing and superlative acting to create 12 distinct characters using the same actor; and while Priyanka Chopra throws herself into the challenge, she is let down by a poor script. Apart from a few characters that stand out because they're sharply written and convincingly performed, most of the girls appear as clones of each other because the only thing separating them is a single quirk and their costume.

So you have a gawky small-town college girl, a sexy microbiologist from Kampala, a die-hard romantic raised on the movies, an honest middle-class girl hoping to rebuild her life after a break-up, a dominating businesswoman looking for a contract marriage, a kooky damsel who's convinced she knows Yogesh from a previous birth - and at this point, you still have six girls left to go…

As if this story wasn't tiring enough already, Gowariker squeezes in two pointless sub-plots - one about Yogesh's philandering uncle and a detective hired to track his movements; the other about a loan-shark's henchmen stalking Yogesh's brother to return the money he's borrowed from them. The humor in What's Your Raashee is of the broad, juvenile variety, the kind that might amuse six-year-olds.

If you survive the film's plodding pace and make it to the final act, you're expecting to be gratified by a smart ending. After all, which girl does Yogesh Patel eventually choose? Prepare to be disappointed by a cop-out climax that clearly indicates the writers had no idea how to clean up this mess they made.

In sharp contrast to Madhu Rye's novel, Kimball Ravenswood from which it is adapted, What's Your Raashee is a regressive, old-fashioned picture that suffers on account of too many silly jokes, too many unlikable characters, and way too many songs. Even the references to such social evils as child marriage and dowry are fleeting and appear gratuitous.

Despite the earnest efforts of Priyanka Chopra, the actress can't pull off the impossible task of making every single one of these characters a credible, flesh-and-blood person. Truth is, I'm not sure anyone in her place could. Harman Baweja, meanwhile, is endearing in a role that doesn't demand much.

Director Ashutosh Gowariker who's delivered compelling dramas previously, appears out of his depth here tackling urban comedy. Like his epic-sized victories, Lagaan and Jodhaa Akbar and even the well-intended, cult-favourite Swades, Gowariker's What's Your Raashee? is unfortunately an epic-sized failure.

I'm going with one and a half out of five for Ashutosh Gowaiker's What's Your Raashee? Here's hoping his next effort will erase the memory of this film forever.

Rating: 1.5 / 5 (Average)

What do you think? Write your own review here and win exciting prizes. Winning entry will be read by Rajeev Masand on his show on CNN-IBN next Friday. Do not forget to leave your contact details.

Main Aur Mrs. Khanna Music Launch

2009-09-25T21:12:00.000+05:30

Bollywood new Movie ‘Main Aur Mrs. Khanna’ music launched. Which movie directed by Prem Soni. And music composed by Sajid – Wajid. They have given music in mujhse shaadi karogi’, ‘maine pyaar kyun kiya’. The film stars Salman Khan, Sohail Khan and Kareena Kapoor done best roles in ‘Main Aur Mrs. Khanna’.

Directed by Prem Soni, ‘Main Aur Mrs. Khanna’ is yet another awaited comedy this year. The film stars Salman Khan, Sohail Khan and Kareena Kapoor in the lead roles. The movie also has Govinda in a special appearance and Preity Zinta in an item number. The music for this emotional and romantic drama has been composed by Sajid -Wajid, who have earlier given hits like ‘mujhse shaadi karogi’, ‘maine pyaar kyun kiya’ and the latest ‘wanted’ with Salman.

Though Salman and Kareena have done quite a few films earlier, but they haven’t managed to create much stirs onscreen as a couple as yet. Hope this Diwali, the cinegoers get to witness a sizzling chemistry between these two very talented and very stylish stars.

Meanwhile, check out the shots from the music launch of the flick.

Deepika Padukone dazzles the ramp at LFW 2010

2009-09-25T21:09:00.000+05:30

Lakme India Fashion Week 2010 saw the most beautiful of all beauties come to life when Deepika Padukone attired nothing less than an angel sashayed down the ramp on the day 4 of the fashion week, as the showstopper for designers Gauri and Nainika. Even the prettiest of angels looked down in jealousy as Deepika romanced with satin and frill in a vintage black-and-white gown in the hazy hues of the ramp.

The show also had Dia Mirza and Sameera Reddy sashay down the ramp. However, hot babes like Bipasha Basu, Katrina Kaif, Kajol and Genelia preferred the front rows rather than the spotlight of the ramp.

Kareena Kapoor Sexy Bollywood Celebrity

2009-09-24T10:40:00.000+05:30

Kareena Kapoor was born on September 21, 1980), often informally referred to as Bebo,is an Indian film actress who appears in Bollywood films. Born into a film family where both her parents, Randhir Kapoor and Babita, and her elder sister Karisma were actors, Kapoor faced the media spotlight from a very young age. However, she did not make her acting debut until the 2000 film Refugee, which earned her the Filmfare Best Female Debut Award. Her melodrama Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham became India's highest grossing film in the overseas market in 2001 and is her biggest commercial success to date.

After receiving negative reviews for a series of repetitive roles between 2002 and 2003, Kapoor accepted more demanding roles to avoid being typecast, and consequently was recognized by critics for displaying greater versatility between 2004 and 2006. Her portrayal of a sex worker in Chameli (2004) proved to be the turning point in her career and garnered her the Filmfare Special Performance Award. She later received two Critics Awards for Best Actress at the Filmfare ceremony for her performances in the critically acclaimed Dev (2004) and Omkara (2006).

In 2007, Kapoor earned a Filmfare Best Actress Award for her performance in the Imtiaz Ali directed romantic comedy film, Jab We Met. Although the box office earnings of her films have varied considerably, Kapoor has established herself as one of the leading contemporary actresses in the Hindi film industry. Kapoor's off-screen life is subject to wide media coverage in India with frequent press coverage of her and boyfriend, actor Saif Ali Khan and speculation of a possible marriage.

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Aishwarya Rai Bollywood actress and Miss World 1994

2009-09-23T09:34:00.000+05:30

Bollywood actress and Miss World 1994, Aishwarya Rai set on the cover page of Verve Magazine India for the month of June 2009, The Power Issue. She is wearing a red hot dress, looking She is in the list of India’s 50 most influential women.

Priyanka Chopra | Gorgeous Priyanka Chopra Wallpapers

2009-09-23T09:00:00.004+05:30

Gorgeous Priyanka Chopra Sizzles at Toronto Film Festival. Priyanka Chopra flaunts her curves as she reache Toronto Film festival 2009 in Canada to promote her upcoming movie What’s Your Rashee in which she will be playing record breaking 12 different roles with different looks. She looks stunning in black strapless dress. Check out Priyanka Chopra Curves press conference at TIFF 2009.

SRK pays surprise visit to Akshay at the sets of 'Blue'

2009-09-20T09:47:00.002+05:30

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan took everyone on the sets of 'Blue' by surprise when he walked in to meet Akshay Kumar.

The team of 'Blue' was shooting for a special number 'Fikrana' with Akshay and Zayed Khan at Floor number one in Film City in suburban Mumbai.

While the crew was in the middle of the shoot, Shah Rukh walked on to the sets to greet Akshay making the crowd go berserk seeing the two stars together.

The duo then stepped into Akshay's vanity van where they spent nearly 15-20 minutes.

An eyewitness present on the sets said, "We knew SRK was shooting nearby but no one expected him to come on the sets of 'Blue'. He surprised everyone including Akshay. They both even posed together for photographs."

"While we were shooting for Blue on Floor 1 at Filmcity, SRK was shooting on Floor 12 for an automobile commercial. Though the distance is considerably large, Shah Rukh actually walked down all the way to meet Akshay. That was simply incredible," a source from the production team said.

'Blue', an underwater action thriller directed by Anthony D'Souza is slated for a Diwali release and stars, Akshay, Sanjay Dutt, Lara Dutta, Zayed Khan, Rahul Dev and Katrina Kaif in a special appearance.

Source: screenindia.com

Cancer-stricken Lisa Ray signs film

2009-09-18T07:32:00.001+05:30

Lisa Ray who recently admitted to suffering from incurable cancer has given her nod to a film based on Charles Sobhraj biopic, opposite Sanjay Dutt.

Charles Sobhraj biopic was in the pipeline for quite some time, and is now being revived.

Director Prawaal Raman tells a Mumbai Tabloid, "Lisa is to play the Charles Sobhraj character's love interest. After I heard about her illness I was wondering if bringing up work would be wise. But she assures me she's on."

He goes on to say, "I'm in touch with her regularly. I'm sure she'll be able to shoot quite comfortably. We'll make sure of that. I can't even dream of replacing her."

That's the spirit Lisa!

Salman Khan turns witty

2009-09-18T07:19:00.000+05:30

Bollywood hunk Salman Khan who used to lose his temper at the drop of a hat it seems, is weighing options before reacting spontaneously. The hot actor is trying hard to shed his high temper image and is turning witty instead.

In a couple of recent incidents the old Salman would have lost his temper. But the new Salman threw one-liners to lighten the atmosphere.

The other day Sallu Bhai showed up at a blood donation camp in Mumbai, where the doctor by mistake introduced him as 'Shah Rukh Khan'! The audience started laughing but rather than walking out, Sallu took the microphone and said, "Achha hai ye doctor hai, wait karo Shah Rukh Khan aa raha hai".

In another incident, while giving interview, one of our reporters asked Salman to suggest style tips for Shah Rukh. Salman in his newfound placatory tone retorted: I would like to give you one advice, don't ask me such questions. Who am I to give Shah Rukh style tips.

Not bad Sallu Bhai!

Rani got cricket tips from SRK, moustache help from Aamir

2009-09-18T07:16:00.000+05:30

Rani Mukerji disguises herself as an aspiring Sikh cricketer in the upcoming film Dil Bole Hadippa!. And Bollywood's superstars were more than willing to help her get into the character's groove - while Shah Rukh Khan gave her cricketing tips, Aamir Khan helped her with wearing a moustache.

"Shah Rukh gave me a lot of tips on cricket and I was very happy to have him give me tips for my character in the movie," said Rani.

Aamir, with whom Rani starred in Ghulam, too did his bit to help her don the garb of a Sikh. "Aamir helped me with the moustache... I was shooting a song with Rakhi (Sawant) before I had the moustache on and he gave me tips on how I should put it with a little smile so that it doesn't hurt," said the actress.

Rani was in the capital with her Dil Bole Hadippa! co-star Shahid Kapoor at the Big Cinemas Odeon to promote the movie. Produced and distributed by Yash Raj Films, it is directed by debutant Anurag Singh. It also stars Anupam Kher, Dalip Tahil and item girls Rakhi Sawant and Sherlyn Chopra.

"It is a commercially entertaining and audience-friendly film. Everyone will enjoy it whether it is with family, kids or friends," said Shahid.

Kanagana Ranaut agreed to come | Tanu Weds

2009-09-17T07:49:00.001+05:30

The film 'Tanu Weds' Manu finally gets it female lead when Kanagana Ranaut agreed to come on board. Actor R Madhavan had already been signed on to play the film's hero in Aanand L Rai's movie which will be made under the Colour Yellow Pictures banner. (Text Courtesy- Movietalkies.com)

Dil Bole Hadippa in trouble for adult content

2009-09-16T13:21:00.000+05:30

By Raymond Ronamai

The moral police have come down heavily on the much-hyped film Dil Bole Hadippa, starring Shahid Kapoor and Rani Mukherjee. It can't reach out to the family audience, it has been issued an U/A certificate by the Censor Board for its adult content.

But how comes the Yash Raj Films, known for its clean family entertainers, get so cheap this time around? Is it Rani Mukherjee's bikini show that invited the wrath of the Censor Board? You may ask these questions. The truth is that the Censor Board is not happy with the excessive skin show from Sherlyn Chopra and Rakhi Sawant.

Vinayak Azad, Regional Officer Censor Board, revealed that Dil Bole Hadippa has been given an U/A certificate because of Sherlyn's hot outfits and Rakhi Sawant's raunchy dance number. He added that there are no high-voltage intimate scenes and kisses.

Following the censorship, the outspoken Sherlyn Chopra has blamed designer Manish Malhotra. She claimed that he dressed her in bikini tops and shorts that ultimately ooze sensuality. She added that her role demanded her to dress so, as she plays a super model in the film.

Dil Bole Hadippa, produced by Aditya Chopra under Yash Raj Films banner and directed by Anurag Singh, is set for release this Friday, 18th September. Watch out for the hot babes Sherlyn and Rakhi!

Tags: dil bole hadippa, sherlyn chopra, rakhi sawant, rani mukherjee, shahid kapoor, yash raj films, aditya chopra, anurag singh, raymond ronamai.

When dirty urchins swayed Patrick

2009-09-16T13:18:00.000+05:30

MUMBAI: Om Puri is a sad man today. The death of Patrick Swayze, his friend and co-actor from Roland Joffe's City of Joy (1992, shot largely in Kolkata), in Los Angeles on Monday came as a rude shock to him.

"I was saddened by the news of Patrick's death,'' Puri said on Tuesday. "I knew he was suffering from cancer for the last year and a half and spoke to him a few months ago when I requested him to write the foreword for my biography written by my wife Nandita Puri. He complied.''

Puri said Patrick had promised him that he would make a trip to India in November to release the book. "Now that remains an unrealized dream for both him and me,'' he added.

He also remembers Patrick telling him that he was intimidated by him (Om) because he reminded him of his own father in many ways.

He remembers his first meeting with the American actor on the sets of `City of Joy' in Kolkata. Puri played Hasari Pal, a rickshaw-puller in the film, and was asked by Joffe to give Patrick a ride in the rickshaw barely minutes after the actor had landed in Kolkata.

"Patrick was jet-lagged. He had flown 24 hours to get to Kolkata and, within a few minutes of his arrival, Joffe wanted me to take him around Kolkata. I asked him why he was insisting on it and wondered whether we should give Patrick time to settle down first. But Joffe said he wanted to give Patrick a culture shock; and so I took my rickshaw that was parked at the Oberoi Grand, dressed in a lungi and banian, put the ghamccha (a soft towel rickshaw-pullers wear) on my mouth and took Patrick around the small lanes of Kolkata.''

When an elderly gentleman man saw Patrick being pulled around by Om in the same spot twice he thought the actor was a corrupt rickshaw puller who was taking the white man for a ride; and he even admonished Om, who he obviously didn't recognise.

Om also recollected how the Hollywood actor, who was a huge draw way back in the '90s, was so simple and down to earth.

He says, "Patrick was touched by the poverty he saw in the slums. He was a follower of Buddhism and he wanted to reach out to the poor.''

The Bollywood actor also remembers how the `Dirty Dancing' star took two urchins for a swim to the Oberoi Grand.

"When the hotel staff objected because the boys were shabbily clad, Patrick personally went and bought them fresh new swimming trunks and took them back for a swim,'' he says.

Om Puri and Patrick Swayze travelled all around the world for the premieres of the `City of Joy'. "We went to London, Tokyo and Australia,'' says Om.

Apparently in Tokyo Patrick locked himself inside his hotel suite and refused to meet the media. "Neither the producers nor any of his staff had the courage to knock on Patrick's door and call him for the media interaction,'' recalls Om.

"So I mustered the courage and went up to his suite. I told him `Patrick please put aside whatever is bothering you for a few hours and let's meet the media'.'' The American actor agreed and Om and he struck a deep rapport.

When the Hollywood actor talked of flying to Australia on the following day, Om told him he wasn't invited.

"Patrick was shocked. He called the producer Jack Eberts and told him that he wouldn't fly to Australia unless I accompanied him.''

When the producer pointed out that it was a Saturday and I didn't have an Australian visa, Patrick actually got the visa office opened on a Sunday and ensured that I travelled to Australia with him.''

In Australia at the charity premiere, a slightly tipsy Patrick apparently told the waiting media, "Om Puri is terrific in `City of Joy'. If he doesn't win an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for this film, I will personally kill someone.''

Source: Indiatimes.com

Ekta Kapoor makes kissing mandatory for auditions

2009-09-11T12:03:00.000+05:30

New Delhi, Sept. 9 -- Television's saas-bahu specialist Ekta Kapoor recently shocked 200 aspiring actors when she asked them to kiss for the auditions of a forthcoming Balaji project.

While some participants left disgusted by the idea, others just had a good time. A brainchild of Vikas Bhatia, the creative head of Balaji Films, the auditions were organised for a youth-oriented project which might "turn out to be a film or a show".

"I just have a script in mind and I wanted the right people to enliven the characters so I organised an audition and Ekta agreed," said Bhatia. The selected candidates have signed a contract with Balaji Films, though they haven't been told what it is for.

Bhatia added, "The kiss wasn't scripted. Most of the candidates were theatre artists and were paired to perform a romantic scene where they themselves ended up kissing, while those who felt uncomfortable left.

".

Minakshi Saini, Hindustan Times

Shahid Rani Sweat it out with Salman!

2009-09-10T23:28:00.000+05:30

If Rani lost weight for Dil Bole Hadippa, then the even more professional Shahid Kapoor built his muscles for Kaminey. And while at it, Shahid jokes, and says on Salman’s Dus Ka Dum, “I did three four other films to use the good physique to the maximum.”

But Salman, who appreciates everybody who takes care of their physical health, advised him, “Never let go of this good habit!” and turning around to Rani advised: “You better watch out too. For if you give up now you will spread sideways! If we don’t like what we see in the mirror, how will the audience?” Valid point.

-Sampurn Media

You can now bite Kareena Kapoor!

2009-09-10T19:05:00.000+05:30

By: Subhadeep Bhattacharjee

Well before you run wild with your imagination let us clear the air you cannot bite Kareena but surely a pizza that has been named after her. Almost three months after Bollywood bombshell Mallika Sherawat laid it on thick by launching a milkshake named after her, Bebo has lend her name to a pizza. An international pizza chain has recently introduced a size zero pizza which has been aptly named the Kareena Kapoor Size-Zero Pizza.

The pizza will be available in medium and large sizes and is topped with finely diced chicken, red chillies, baby corn and is spiked with onions. But how does Kareena lend her name such a high calorie bomb? Well Kareena is putting on a few extra pounds for her upcoming Karan Johar movie. The Siddharth Malhotra directed movie will be produced by Karan's Dharma Productions and Shahrukh's Red Chilles Entertainment. The movie will also star Arjun Rampal and Kajol.

Tags: kareena kapoor, karan johar, arjun rampal, siddharth malhotra, subhadeep bhattacharjee.

Bipasha Basu in Raavan!

2009-09-10T18:58:00.000+05:30

By Moviebuzz | Thursday, 10 September , 2009, 09:27

The dusky bong beauty, Bipasha Basu has stepped into Mani Ratnam’s Raavan star cast.

She is playing Mandodari, a character that Nayanthara was approached to do earlier. This character is a pivotal role in the film and she has an item song and also a few scenes. Bipasha has given almost 20 days inspite of her busy schedule, as she was keen to be a part of a Mani Ratnam film.

Raavan unit is currently shooting near Mumbai and Bipasha will join the unit by September 15. The buzz is that the actress had agreed to do the film, a month back, but on Mani’s strict instructions, Bips was not allowed to talk about it.

So it remains a mystery why Suhasini called up Nayanthara who was shooting abroad for Aadhavan and ask for dates? Sources close to Bipasha says that her costumes are ready and she is very happy and looking forward to working in the film.

Cancer hasn't shaken Lisa Ray

2009-09-10T18:56:00.000+05:30

By: Subhadeep Bhattacharjee

Most people in the world would be shaken and taken to a corner upon hearing that they are suffering from cancer. But the sizzling Lisa Ray has proved that she is not just a bold actress on the screen but a bold person in real life too. The 37 year old actress who is suffering a rare bone marrow cancer has refused to bow down to her illness and is leading a life that may inspire many people suffering from the dreaded disease.

The Canada-born Indian actress who has already completed the first round of treatment is currently in Toronto to attend a 10 day Film Festively. Lisa isn't even interested in talking about her illness though she has given a complete insight on it in her official blog. “I can wrench the spotlight onto Myeloma and Cancer Awareness. I believe it can be cured. That’s the Dirty Realist in me” is what Lisa has posted in her latest blog.

Tags: lisa ray, subhadeep bhattacharjee.

Rani Mukherjee busy babysitting

2009-09-10T18:53:00.000+05:30

By Raymond Ronamai

If you think Rani Mukherjee has been hiding all these years, think again. The truth is that she was either busy working on her latest film Dil Bole Hadippa or babysitting for the last one-and-a-half year.

Rani must be banking on Dil Bole Hadippa to put her back on track. She said that she took professional training on cricket from a coach, as she plays the role of a cricketer in the film. She added that she started practising the game six months before the shooting begun.

But how about babysitting? Whose baby was she taking care of since she is not married? Well, she helped baby sit her niece Mayesha, daughter of her brother.

Rani is currently awaiting the release of her comeback film Dil Bole Hadippa where she acts with Shahid Kapoor. It is set for release next Friday, i.e. September 18.

Tags: rani mukherjee, dil bole hadippa, shahid kapoor, raymond ronamai.

Big B's puzzle with Bigg Boss 3 shooting

2009-09-09T19:38:00.001+05:30

By: Subhadeep Bhattacharjee

Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan is trying to figure out a way to shoot for Bigg Boss 3. Big B is currently in Singapore to take care of his friend, Amar Singh who is undergoing treatment for his prolonged prolonged illness. The actor thus has no plans to return to Mumbai which has put the Bigg Boss 3 producers in a little bit of fix. A source close to the production house has said that Amitabh will be flying in and out for the shooting of the shows.

This will be a second innings for Big B on the small screen after having hosted two seasons of Kaun Banega Crorepati whose success hasn't bee repeated by any other show since then. Big B not only ventured into the small screen but paved the way for many Bollywood stars to appear on the small screen and host the show. Amitabh replaces Shilpa who had hosted Bigg Boss [^] 2. Sources say Big B has been hired for hefty amount to host the third season of the show.

Tags: amitabh bachchan, bigg boss 3, kaun banega crorepati, shilpa shetty, subhadeep bhattacharjee.

Saif is not flamboyant: Kareena

2009-09-09T19:22:00.001+05:30

Bollywood actress Kareena Kapoor, who doesn't like to make her private life public, has opened up about beau Saif Ali Khan and says he is not as flamboyant in real life as he looks on screen.

"Saif is very different (from his on screen image). On screen I think he is very flamboyant, but in real life he is very understated and relaxed," said Kareena.

"He is very classy but he has an amazing charm about himself, an inherent charm which can be seen on screen. And I think that is what's there with him personally also," she told choreographer-director Farah Khan on the chat show "Tere Mere Beach Mein".

The episode featuring Kareena will be aired Saturday

My name’s Turquotte: Katrina

2009-09-09T05:15:00.001+05:30

Katrina Kaif is excited to receive the Rajiv Gandhi award.

She says, “Excited to receive the prestigious Rajiv Gandhi award that people like Shah Rukh Khan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan got previously!”

The actress is also looking forward to her next release Rajneeti, with co-star Ranbir Kapoor. “Rajneeti will hit the screens early next year; probably in February or March! Nothing is finalized as of now,” says the actress.

She also clears rumours of starring in a classic with Aamir Khan. She states, “The rumours that I'm in a remake of a classic with Aamir are completely baseless...There is still time for me to do such roles!”

There has also been news about her surname.. that it’s really Turquotte, and not Kaif as she claims. So, what’s her take on that? The actress tweets, “And for people wondering, yes, my passport name is Katrina Turquotte. I changed it because it'll be easier for people to call me. Nothing more.”

Well, that’s all for now, people!

Big B will be ‘voice of reason’ on Big Boss

2009-09-06T21:15:00.002+05:30

Indian television can’t get any bigger than this. As the channel Colors’ CEO Rjaesh Kamat puts it, “It’s Bollywood Ka Boss meets Bigg Boss.”

Amitabh Bachchan has agreed to play a very special role in the third season of Bigg Boss which begins in October.

This is the Big B’s second television appearance after the spectacular Kaun Banega Crorepati. And hence crucial. Negotiations between the Big B and Colors were frantically on until late this week.

Finally, on Friday, the Colors team headed for Singapore to announce the Big B’s presence on the show.

Says Kamat, “Why Mr Bachchan? You may well ask. After the success of Season 2 we needed to take Bigg Boss to another level. We went to the drawing board and concluded that the only way we could take the show higher was by introducing the concept of the Pop Philosopher. Earlier, we had the anchors commenting on the goings on in the Bigg Boss . Now the discussion would move to a dinner-table introspective level. Why were the contestants doing what they were doing... what were their motivations? Etc etc. We needed a prophetic voice that would be heard and taken seriously. Quite frankly if Mr Bachchan hadn’t agreed we’d have scrapped the concept of the pop-philosopher on the show.”

Filmmakers and scriptwriters are making a beeline for Singapore. But does the Big B’s second major foray after KBC after years of being offered fiction and non-fiction mean he’s now in the mood to lean towards the home medium for a while?

“Not at all,” says the Big B. “I finished my pending film assignments and then came here. My trip to Singapore was planned well in advance. The next lot of films are crystallizing. In the meanwhile I took on Bigg Boss because they thought I could be a convincing voice of reason on the show. I’m not the host or the anchor. I’ve a totally different function as a commentator who could connect with audiences without talking down to them.”

The icon surprises you by saying he’s nervous. “You’d think KBC was harder because that was my first time on television. But no. Every time I do anything new and that means starting a new film project too, I get butterflies in my stomach. I’m happy about this show because like KBC it has been conceptualized and created by the best minds and some of the finest psychologists. So I’m in safe hands.”

'Bigg Boss 3' will surpass last year's popularity: Colors CEO

2009-09-05T18:38:00.000+05:30

NEW DELHI: Though "Bigg Boss" is among the most watched reality shows on Indian television, the latest version featuring Bollywood megastar
Amitabh Bachchan will see the show surpassing last year's popularity, says Colors TV channel CEO Rajesh Kamat.

"After the tremendous success of 'Bigg Boss' last year, we want to take it to even higher levels this year - in ratings, in novelty and in appeal. With Mr. Bachchan on board, we strongly believe that 'Bigg Boss' this year has all the ingredients to surpass its last year's popularity," Kamat said in a press release.

Amitabh, 66, who created waves in the TV industry as host of superhit game show "Kaun Banega Crorepati", is making a comeback to the small screen after a gap of four years.

His role in "Bigg Boss" has been defined as that of a 'Pop Philosopher', which is a unique concept that will be one of the differentiators of this season.

In this role, Amitabh will bridge the gap between "Bigg Boss" participants and viewers through contextualising events, simplifying emotions as well as analysing developments that happen within the "Bigg Boss" house.

Talking of his association with the show, Amitabh said: "This is one show that has intrigued me immensely as a viewer - its format, its contestants and the psychological battle within the house. That intrigue, coupled with the unique concept that Colors shared with me for this season, excited me to be a part of 'Bigg Boss' this year."

"Bigg Boss" is the Indian version of popular British reality show "Big Brother".

It has celebrity contestants locked into a house under the surveillance of multiple cameras for a period of three months without any contact with the outside world.

In the third season of the show this year, viewers will get to decide who they want to see in the "Bigg Boss" house. Amitabh will be urging viewers through ads to send in their entries, on the basis of which a few celebrities will be approached.

The show will begin in October.

Three Love, Lies, Betrayal

2009-09-04T18:52:00.000+05:30

Fri, Sep 4 04:05 PM

Genre: Thriller

Director: Vishal Pandya

Cast: Ashish Chowdhry, Nausheen Ali Sardar, Akshay Kapoor Synopsis: Three is a story which is about the happenings in a house in a place called Purple Lake. The story revolves around Anjini Dutt, a violin teacher who is running the house with whatever she earns. Her husband, Rajeev Dut, who has not been able to earn much, lives in her house and on her money, which is the reason for his anger and frustration - something that is also very visible in their marriage. He pushes his wife away because of

an ego complex which has been growing in him over the years. Rajeev finally gathers the courage and asks her to sell her house and give him the money to invest in business, to which she gets furious as her house is her only connection with her parents who are no more. She decides to help her husband and give one portion of her house on rent so that her husband can use the money for his business.Is Sanjay's love for real? Is Anjini making a mistake? Will she have to pay for it with her house...or even her life?
HT

Most Popular Posts of August 2009

2009-09-03T18:31:00.005+05:30

Most Famous and Hot Tops of August 2009. Visitors like this posts.

Kareena Kapoor woos tops five Hindi film actors in 2009

2009-09-02T14:05:00.002+05:30

Story By: CHUMAN DAS
updated on: Sep 02, 2009

MUMBAI: Kareena Kapoor may have bagged all the awards last year for a superb performance of Geet in Imtiaz Ali's Jab We Met, but now she is all set to set a new record. The Kapoor lass has the privilege of having worked with all the top bracket actors including the four Khans in 2009. Prior to this Karisma Kapoor, Kajol, Madhuri Dixit to name a few have worked with the Khans, but never in one calendar year.

Kapoor started the year by dancing with Shah Rukh Khan in his home production, Billu. She soon started shooting for Raj Kumar Hirani's 3 Idiots with Aamir Khan and then in Prem Soni's Main Aur Mrs Khanna with Salman Khan.

To give the Kapoor due recognition, the biggest banners and the best of actors have always been associated with her. And to add to her success story, she has also worked with the box office favourite Akshay Kumar in Kambhaqt Ishq along with the legendary Sylvestor Stallone.

And to add to that, the actress will start working with the fourth Khan, beau Saif Ali Khan in Agent Vinod. And what does Kareena have to say about this? She tells Businessofcinema.com, "I am really happy to have all the four Khans on my side," with a huge smile on her face.

Kapoor has been growing in stature and has been recognized as a powerhouse performer in recent times. The oomph appeal has always been there, but the credit for her histrionics has been a tad muted, often being overshadowed by her high glamour quotient. But with the latest promos of Main Aur Mrs Khanna looking promising, the actress is once again in the news.

From awards for Jab We Met to her zero size figure, from acting with a Hollywood actor to romancing all the Khans in a single year Kapoor enjoys the attention on her. And with Cupid also keeping pace with her, Kapoor may just be singing the famous Carpenters' song, "I'm at the top of the world, looking down on creation…"

Source: businessofcinema.com

Shahid Kapoor gets pricey after Kaminey’s success!

2009-09-02T13:32:00.001+05:30

By Eugene Desiree
Mumbai: Rs. 15 cr per film is what this teen heartthrob is quoting after the success of his much critically acclaimed Kaminey. But that isn’t taken down so easily by the film fraternity.

Reportedly, Shahid has left film maker Subhash Ghai pretty upset with his new price. And lets just remember here, Shahid was a dance extra in Taal. Even Shahid has done 36 china Town with Ghai but he isn’t simply ready to lower his price. Obviously enjoying his success.

At the same time, Rani Mukherji who is ready to go to any extent to compete with younger actress that she is ready to bare.

After her bikini clad stints in Dil Bole Hadippa, she is flaunting herself in the lifestyle magazine.

Source: duniyalive.com

Marathi magic at the Ganpati awards

2009-09-01T00:08:00.000+05:30

MUMBAI: Local flavour pervaded the air during Saturday's round of judging for the Times of India Ustav Moorti Sanman contest. An impressive line-up of artistes, all native Maharashtrians, visited three of the shortlisted mandals. Actor Shreyas Talpade made heads turn when he arrived to pray to the GSB Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Samiti idol at Wadala. "I am touched to the core by the presence of this Ganpati. I had heard so much about it that I snatched the first opportunity from my hectic travel schedule,'' he said, explaining why he emotionally covered his face with his hands during the puja.

The next stop on the itinerary was the cosy Spring Mill Compound Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal at Naigaon. The Rajasthani mahal housing the idol was the most opulent structure in the decrepit mill-workers' colony. But a rare spirit lay waiting to be discovered. Lyricist Swanand Kirkire, who was guest of honour, listened in rapt attention as the mandal remembered its martyr, army jawan Ajit Gavkar, whose family still lives in this chawl.

Saving the sweetness for the last, singer Sadhna Sargam, whose talent was nurtured at Ganeshotsav competitions, performed a medley of devotional classics including Gajanana Shri Ganaraya before the 18-ft-tall standing Ganesh of the Tejukaya Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav at Lalbaug.

Wake Up Sid will cross the boundaries of multiplexes

2009-08-31T23:23:00.002+05:30

Promos of 'Wake Up Sid' have made an instant impression and urban audiences have already been sold to the concept, mood, treatment and the flavor of this Karan Johar production. While it is pretty much clear that with 'Wake Up Sid', Bollywood would be seeing Dharma Productions' first quintessential multiplex film, one wonders whether Karan Johar, director Ayan Mukerji and Ranbir Kapoor are also targeting single screens and smaller cities and towns for the film to make a wider impression.

"See, time and again, we kind of tend to make a generalization and divide, that so and so film is only for multiplexes or for that matter single screen audiences. Yes, definitely the film is about the angst of urban youngsters, is reflective of their lifestyle and of course comes with associated demography perspective as well. But then that's the world of Sid, so we have to present it that way. We have to show that in the promos and we can't fool the audiences, right", says Karan Johar who allowed Ayan Mukerjee a free hand in making the film.

As per Karan, the film is not just about the lead protagonist Sid but also his parents.

"The film also talks about the kind of dilemma that parents go through. They have a son at home who is almost grown up and neither can they take all decisions on his behalf nor can they allow him to be let loose. This brings in a quite a lot of emotional energy in the narrative of 'Wake Up Sid' as both sides of the stories are heard," details Karan.

Coming back to the original question around the film being targeted at multiplex audiences, Karan agrees that 'Wake Up Sid' is being perceived as a quintessential multiplex film but in the meanwhile is also hoping that it goes beyond that as well.

"I am not just hoping but also quite positive that the film would cross the boundaries of multiplexes audiences", he says, "The film has all the right ingredients of connecting with larger audiences. Yes, the visual content is such that 'Wake Up Sid' is being perceived as a multiplex film but the subject and the treatment is so strong that it would cut across all segments of audiences. All of us have been a Sid once in our growing up years and it won't be difficult to see a part of us in story which is told through this film."

Didn't he ever contemplate having a non-English or a different title than 'Wake Up Sid'?

Karan nods in agreement, "Yes, we did try to think of a title; something which could perhaps cater to a wider perspective. But then eventually 'Wake Up Sid' resonated with the world of Sid most and we stuck to it. We have it out in open now and it has to be seen how much it eventually manages to entice audiences once the film releases in theaters."

Tags: konkona sen sharma, ranbir kapoor, wake up sid, karan johar, ayan mukerji.

Bipasha Basu garners praises from her directors

2009-08-31T21:40:00.001+05:30

Bipasha Basu does not leave any stone unturned to come up with nothing but an unmatchable performance. She has always been the director’s actor, and has garnered praises for the same. And now, director Sudipto Chattopadhyaya of her forthcoming film Pankh has enlisted himself in the category.

Bips plays the role of a fantasy woman whom Maradona Rebello (a protagonist) conjures up in his head-a phantom who taunts him and fights with him, an alter ego who questions his every move.

The director Sudipto can’t withhold raving about Bipasha’s professionalism and exclaims, “Bipasha is an epitome of professionalism.” He recalls, “On the very first day of the shoot Bipasha was to do six minute single shot which has loads of complexity involved. I was amazed to see her conviction to perform such a complex shot, something which she has not attempted before as main-stream films have a maximum six second shot to perform. She welcomed the challenge and in co-ordination with the choreographer, her co-star and dancers, did justice to the scene.“

As far as her role goes in the film, interestingly, Bips' character loosely resembles to the character played by beau John Abraham in Tanveer Khan’s Madhoshi [^].

Tags: bipasha basu, sudipto chattopadhyaya, pankh.