Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Public was a bit harsh on Ekta Kapoor’s Mahabharat: Swapnil Joshi



January 13th, 2009

Swapnil Joshi is returning to fiction after 3 years with NDTV Imagine’s sitcom Ghar Ki Baat Hai, a slice of life take on every day affairs of a normal family. He denies that its a copy of Yeh Jo Hai Zindagi, “you can’t compare shows. What matter finally is that the public should like the show?” Swapnil who has done several sitcoms such as Had Kar Di, Dil Vil Pyar Vyar, accepts that one of the reasons for staying away from fiction for so long was the lack of interesting stuff. He felt that his last comedy show, Kadvee Khatee Meethi on Star One did well within its limitation. “Unfortunately that show did not percolate to the masses, which I am sure Ghar Ki Baat Hai will do,” speaks Swapnil.

In between this Marathi mulga, had been bit by the reality bug. He had won SET’s Mr and Ms Television, along with Purbi Joshi. He had also anchored a marriage show along with Nausheen Ali Sardar. But his moment of fame came with Comedy Circus 1, where he and partner VIP finished runner up. On certain jokes being below the belt, a defensive Swapnil says, “such things are very subjective. What may appear offensive to me might be okay to you. But on the whole we try to make sure that the audience does not get offended.” He accepts that the Comedy Circus (he took part in the recent Kante Ki Takkar version as well) journey has helped him to hone his comic timing, “the format is a combination of theater and television as you have to perform your gags live and then get instant feedback from the judges “. He is also part of the latest version of Comedy Circus, Chinchpokli to China “This is interesting in the sense that there is no completion; rather you have an ensemble cast of celebs who come and perform,” says Swapnil.

Swapnil who entered the TV scene as Ramanand Sagar’s Sri Krishna feels, “there is not much difference in mytho content over the years, for you can’t change these text, but yet I have noticed that the presentation and costume are quite up-market these days”. He further adds that the public was a bit harsh on Ekta Kapoor’s Mahabharat.” Had she succeeded in her attempt to think out of the box, she would have been praised big time, but alas that was not to be,” shares the actor.

Swapnil says that one of the reasons that he is not always in the news since he prefers to let his work speak, “I am not like others, who party a lot, or boast about their Kashmir trip or cry about their dog dying. I am contented known that I have always had work for that past 10 years and that’s important enough for me”.

Asin Looked Beautiful - Ghajini Success Bash Photo



January 14th, 2009

Aamir Khan, Asin, A.R. Murugadoss and Jiah Khan attended the Ghajini success bash. Aamir Khan’s recent box-office-bombshell Ghajini has crossed the 200-crores mark, in little less than 2 weeks!.

Kanav Puri Bharat Sahni Gay Couple?



January 13th, 2009

Ridhima Kappor's husband Bharat Sahni and Amisha Patel's Beau Kanav Puri are allegdly Gay since last eight years. There are also news that Kanav's Ex Girlfriend Priya Sachdev caught him Red handed with bharat leading to their break up.

Priyanka Chopra Kissing Scenes in Kaminay with Shahid Kapoor



January 13th, 2009

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

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

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

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

Sajid Khan Ghajini Spoof at Star Screen Awards




January 13th, 2009

The Screen Awards 2009 (January 14) promises to be one of the entertaining and controversial ceremonies this year with Sajid and Farah Khan and Sheyas Talpade hosting the event.

One thing that won't go down well with Aamir Khan, though, is Sajid's take-off on the Ghajini actor. Says a source involved with the awards, "Sajid has planned to bring a dwarf (bald and with a scar on his forehead) on stage. Then he will ask him to remove his shirt, which will expose various tattoos.

The one on his chest will read, 'I don't attend awards' while on his back will be tattooed 'รข€¦except the Oscars.'

It's a hilarious take-off on not just Aamir Khan's height but his condescending and hypocritical attitude towards our film awards. Aamir's always pulling some Indian awards down while running off to woo the Oscars for his home productions."

Akshay Deepika Upcoming Films / Movies Together

January 13th, 2009

Akshay Kumar is probably the only actor is B-Town who gives as much importance to the script of the film, as he does to his leading lady.

A lot of thought goes into his female co-stars. No wonder he has had hit jodis with many actresses like Shilpa Shetty, Raveena Tandon and Priyanka Chopra.

AK believes in changing his leading ladies after a point. Even though the Akki-Katrina jodi is the hottest right now, the actor is thinking ahead and is replacing her with a younger, fresher face like Deepika Padukone. Akki and Kat will be seen later this year in De Dhana Dhan, their last film together on paper.

However Deepika and AK will be seen again in 2009 (after Chandni Chowk To China) in Sajid Khan's Houseful. And the pair is also in talks for another film for a big production house. It might be Come On Pappu directed by David Dhawan's son Rohit Dhawan.

Kareena Kapoor declines international endorsement offer


January 13th, 2009

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

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

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

The new dream of Anupam


January 13th, 2009

Anupam Kher's acting school Actor Prepares with its branches in Mumbai, Ahemadabad, Chandigarh and United Kingdom is today considered as one of the most reputed acting schools in India.

The school till now has imparted the knowledge and prepared many trainees into fine actors who have been able to get a good foothold in the film industries.

Now the actor has set his eyes on making able and better citizens out of the underprivileged children.

He has named the new project that he has envisaged to be carried out under the Anupam Kher Foundation as "The School Of Life".

The new programe aims not only to educate the children but also to make them strong and matured so that they will be able to face and find solutions to the different challenges that have to deal with in their everyday life.

Anupam Kher says "We are calling it "School O f Life" because we want to show kids how not to get frustrated with the knocks of life, how to deal with poverty, humility and rejection and other negative forces in life. We want to prepare our children to combat abuse in every guise so that there would be no child abuse and no children growing up as victims of alcohol and drug abuse".

The veteran actor wants this project to eventually spread its wings and reach out to the maximum number of poor children across India.

Hats off to you, Mr. Kher for finding time and using your ability and influence to make a difference in the society.

Warner Bros first mass-marketed Bollywood film was shot in India, China and Thailand; is being released nearly simultaneously around the world



January 16, 2009 will mark Chandni Chowk to China as the widest U.S. release ever for a Bollywood film. The movie, stars Akshay Kumar and Deepika Padukone in the lead roles. This movie is being released by Warner Brothers to open on more than 125 screens in more than 50 markets.

Warner Bros first mass-marketed Bollywood film was shot in India, China and Thailand; is being released nearly simultaneously around the world

It is described as `the first-ever Bollywood Kung fu comedy.

Chandni Chowk to China:

  • The first Bollywood film distributed by Warner Bros.
  • The first Indian production to be shot in China.
  • The first movie allowed by the Chinese government to shoot on the Great Wall of China.
  • The first Bollywood film for powerhouse martial arts choreographer Huan-Chiu Ku (Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, Kill Bill).

Karishma Kotak, the new girl in Yuvraj Singh's life




January 13th, 2009

Meet Yuvi's new girl

Karishma Kotak, the new girl in Yuvraj Singh's life, speaks about the special moments she shares with the cricketer.

Love is in the air for cricketer Yuvraj Singh. The buzz is that he has lost his heart to Karishma Kotak, a successful model and a Telegu film actress.

A source from the film industry said, "Yuvraj Singh has been seeing Karishma Kotak for a while now. The two are often seen together at suburban hangouts and five-star hotels. They make no bones about being spotted together and are pretty cosy in each other's company. Their relationship is going strong and both seem extremely happy with each other."

Knowing that it is a common practice among celebrities to brush off their budding relationships as 'good friendships', we first inquired with Karishma about her stay in Mumbai, since she is from London. Karishma said, "I am born and brought up in London, and have been staying in Mumbai for the past two and a half years. I have made some interesting friends among which there are several actors and one cricketer."

Biting the bait, we pressed her further as to which cricketer she was taking about. Karishma replied, "I can't reveal his name, but yes, he's a close friend of mine."

When we told her that she has often been spotted with Yuvraj Singh, Karishma laughed out aloud and said, "I knew this would happen; that someone would call me. Of late, we have been hanging out a lot. We met a few months ago through a mutual friend but I can't tell you where. We are just friends and I care a lot about him. He is a really sweet and nice guy."

On being egged further, Karishma admitted that she looks forward to spending time with Yuvraj. She confessed, "We try and see each other whenever I am back from my shoots. And we don't just go partying, it's dinners as well."

Asked about Yuvi's professional life, Karishma said, "I haven't seen any of his matches as I have been travelling a lot. But I definitely plan to witness a live match very soon. He has been playing well and I am very happy for him."

Karishma Kotak is currently shooting UTV's Season's Greetings and she will host a show called The Spa Diaries. She has been a Kingfisher calendar model and has done a lot of commercial ads. She has also worked in a Telegu Film, Shankardada Zindabad, where she was paired opposite Chiranjeevi. The film was directed by Prabhu De


Have Aamir and Faisal Khan patched up?



January 13th, 2009

It seems like finally the two warring brothers Faisal and Aamir Khan have decided to patch up. It can be recalled that there was a case filed by Faisal Khan against Aamir Khan. Also Faisal had left no chance to malign Aamir’s reputation by holding press conference in the media against him. But things seems to have changed now.

Faisal reveals, “I met Aamir after Ghajini released and told him I loved his role and the film. We both hugged each other and there is no bad blood between him and me. I will always wish the best for him, he is my brother after all.”

Faisal further adds, “I am in the process of making my own film and hope to get it on the floors very soon.”

Does he intend to take his brother’s help for the same?

“Thats upto him to decide” concludes Faisal.

No, partying is not my thing: Deepika Padukone



January 13th, 2009

You have a phenomenon 2009 ahead of you and life seems too good to be true. But did you have any resolutions this New Year’s eve?
No resolutions really, every year I hope that the following year is as exciting as the previous year and I am very happy with the way my professional life is going and I just hope that this year is the same for me. I always hope that I remain happy because I think happiness is very important.

You celebrated your birthday some days ago. How does it feel to turn And if reports are anything to go by, you visited a temple in Mumbai. Did you party at all?
No, partying is not my thing, I preferred spending time with my family and yes I did visit a temple in the morning, that’s generally how I start my day on my birthday and generally do things that I enjoy doing, so I spent time with my family and also worked a bit, so I managed to balance out both.

Any birth-day wishes?
Well…what better way to start the year with a big film? My film Chandni Chowk To China is going to release soon, so I hope that it does really well.

Chandni Chowk to China was your first action movie. Was it tough to film?
Yes, it was tough, but I am glad that I went through the extensive training – physically and mentally it was important. So I was well prepared.

What training did you undertake prior to filming?
I trained for six months. My trainers came down from Hong Kong and trained me in all the cable work and wire work and all the sword fights and all those things.

The trailers of Chandni Chowk to China seems very promising. What made you choose this venture?
This project was offered to me before “Om Shanti Om” released. And the fact that I was always very keen to do an action film and the fact that is sounded like a very big and exciting project , the fact that Nikhil Advani was directing it and it was opposite Akshay Kumar and the fact that I have a double role, so what more could I have asked for?

You are playing a double role once again. (After OSO). Do you think opting for double roles gives you more scope to exercise your acting prowess?
I would have considered myself very lucky to have got to do the opportunity of a double role again. It just gives me that much more confidence that my directors and the audience believe that I can carry off different kinds of looks in different kinds of roles. And obviously as an actor it is a lot more challenging doing two roles in the same film. It’s definitely not easy and is quite challenging.

You look phenomenal yielding all the sticks, the magical umbrellas … How difficult was it to pull off all the stunts?
It was quite difficult because I had to train for about six months; I used to train for about eight hours a day. But I think it’s all paid off, it was something that I had to do because of the kind of action that was required in the film. And my trainers came down from Honk Kong to train me for the action sequences in the film. I think it has really all paid off very well. The action sequences were all ready before we even started shooting for the film. Once we started shooting everything was all in place and I didn’t waste any time learning.

Do you always identify with the roles that you take up on screen? And more importantly, will we see you in a non-glamorous avatar any time soon?
Sure, as an actor I would definitely like to do different kinds of roles and different kinds of cinema.

Can you tell us about some interesting anecdotes while shooting for the CC2C?
For me the most interesting part would be shooting at the “Great Wall Of China.” I had always thought that I would end up there as a tourist, but it was a greater experience actually shooting there, and I think with the first film to have ever been shot at the Great Wall Of China.

How was it working with Akshay Kumar? (We hear that you were in awe and a bit intimidated while performing stunts alongside him). How do you rate his stunt quotient?
I wouldn’t say intimidated because then that would be taking away credit from him. He’s some one who has made me feel extremely comfortable, whether it was on the sets, whether it was scene or whether it was an action stunt. He’s made me feel absolutely comfortable and also I give my director credit for that and I would also give myself a little bit of credit for that because I had trained really hard for it. No, I wasn’t intimidated. I am just some one who really admires the way he’s groomed himself over the years and the way he has evolved as an actor and the kind of cinema that he’s doing, I think he’s some one who we can all really learn a lot from.

You are considered to be one of the most beautiful/promising faces to hit Bollywood in a long time? Do all the sky-high expectations bog you down?
No, it doesn’t. I am here to enjoy my work. I think enjoying my work is extremely important and that’s the reason I am here.

Who is your worst critic?
I think myself and my family. I think my family would be most honest with me.

When you see yourself on screen, do you cringe or do you analyze it to pieces?
I do a little bit of both.

How would you best describe Deepika Padukone - the person and the Deepika Padukone - the celebrity?
I don’t consider myself a celebrity, I believe that I’ve had a fantastic up bringing and I believe my parents have kept me really grounded and rooted and my family keeps me rooted. And I hope that success never gets to me. I’ve seen my father handle success really well and I hope I continue in the same way because I believe that fame and money, all of that are all secondary things. The main thing is to enjoy your work.

With the economic downturn, do you think it’s feasible to plan magnum opuses? As an actor, how do you plan to tackle the downturn?
I’ll tackle it when I have to; I haven’t really faced the situation yet.

You seem to be very picky about choosing roles? Do you consult anybody from the film fraternity before signing on a venture?
Obviously the final decision is mine, but I do have my parents who I always consult before I do a film and I take their advice.

Will we ever see you in a Hollywood venture?
If some thing exciting comes up, why not?

How do you de-stress after a day’s hard work and what’ the mantra that keeps you going?
I enjoy doing simple things. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, eating simple home food

Tell us something that nobody else knows about Deepika Padukone - the actress
Nothing in particular. I like to believe that I am a very simple person. I like doing simple things, I like spending time at home with my family and friends. And I am extremely fond of chocolate.

Does it rile you up about your personal life being discussed till the cows come home? Are you on/off with Ranbir, are you on/off with XXX, what is your take?
All I can say at this point is that I know it’s a part of your profession to be written about your personal life and people are going to keep speculating which is fine as long as I know what is happening in my life and I am very secured any happy in my relationship.

How does it feel to be a part of Imtiaz Ali’s next venture Production No 1? Were you aware of the tug of war between Saif Ali Khan and the director over who should be cast?
That’s really none of my business and decision. I think if Imtiaz has approached me for a film and if he thinks I fit the role then… It was offered to me and obviously I agreed to do it. It’s a great script and a great role and I think certain roles are written with certain people in mind. So that’s really the director’s decision. I am no one to really comment on that.

You won several awards for your role in Om Shanti Om. How has the film changed your life?
It’s changed my life in a lot of ways. The fact that I got to debut with Sharukh and Farah, they gave me such a huge launch. Apart from that I am completely great full to the industry and the audience for accepting me and the fact that I have got such fabulous roles and opportunities to be a part of such good films.

You used to play badminton, like your father. What made you change your career path?
I always wanted to be a model and wanted to be in the glamor field. So it’s something that I always wanted to do.

You famously criticized the media for publishing stories about your romantic link-ups. Has this affected your private life and how you conduct interviews?
To me it really doesn’t matter; I understand that it’s the job of the media to get as much as they can. I understand that it’s also a part of the profession that I am in. I know that people appreciate my work and that’s the most important thing. I really don’t react to these kinds of things when they are written.

What are your hopes for 2009?
I hope that my films that release do really well.

Who or what is your biggest inspiration?
My parents are my biggest inspiration.

How do you like to relax?
By spending time with my family.

Lara Dutta’s item number for Luck



January 13th, 2009

After doing a special appearance in Shah Rukh Khan’s Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi Lara will be seen in an item number along with Imraan Khan for his forthcoming film Luck.

It is known that Lara who worked with Soham in his first film Kaal shares a good rapport with Soham. He too has always been full of praises for Lara. However when it came to an item number Soham couldn’t think of anyone except Lara. He requested her and Lara who has completed shooting of most of her films agreed to do it.

According to a unit hand Lara has done this song only for Soham. She will be seen shaking leg with newcomer Imraan Khan. Luck is an action packed film that introduces Kamal Hasan’s daughter Shruti Hasan opposite Imraan Khan. it also stars Sanjay Dutt, Mithun Chakraborty, Danny Denzongpa, Ravi Kissen and Rati Agnihotri in prominent roles.

Lara’s item number Aisa Jadoo Daala Re from Khaaki was very popular earlier.

‘Slumdog Millionaire,’ India take One Production proud to be INDIAN



January 13th, 2009

Music maestro A R Rahman, who became the first Indian to win the prestigious Golden Globe Award, dedicated it to the “billion people of India,” as British Director Danny Boyle’s Mumbai-based saga ‘Slumdog Millionaire’, bagged four prizes at the ceremony on Monday.

One name which holds thanks is “India take One Production” for making of the film.

As per Pravesh Sahni’s India take One Production has managed production for Slumdog Millioniere. Till date we have managed production for commercials, Features, Video, TV Show some of their work includes Mistress of Spices (Spice Productions Ltd.), Bride and Prejudice (Bride Productions), Looking for Comedy in The Muslim World (Warner Bros.), SlumDog Millionaire (Celador Films UK), Alexander (Intermedia), MTV Wildboyz (MTV) and the list goes on.

As per Tabraz durrani of take one Production said that we are very happy and excited that ‘Slumdog Millionaire’ bagged four prizes and we are the associated with this big film.

Pravesh said we are very thankful to director Danny Boyle that he had mentioned our name after getting the best director award. And this is the great achievement for us.

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I hope my next movie breaks Ghajini’s records: Aamir Khan



January 13th, 2009

Aamir Khan along with the entire star cast of Ghajini celebrated the second success party of the film on the occasion of the film crossing a total worldwide gross of Rs.200 crore. In a brief tete-a-tete Aamir revealed to us the success story of Ghajini.

What according to you are the reasons for Ghajini’s success?
The film did well across the country and also overseas. It had the potential to entertain the audience all over. People from different social backgrounds like the film and appreciated it. Marketing played a huge role in the release of the film. Perhaps a good action film has not been made for a long time. The effort put by the director was equally important.

Ghajini has been appreciated all over India and overseas, according to you what is the potential in Ghajini?
When I see a film I see it as an audience because I react like an audience. I was moved, excited and on the edge of the seat when I was watching the film.

After the success of Ghajini don’t you think the pressure on you has increased?
Yes off course, the audience will expect more from me from my next film now. I hope it breaks more records. I hope my next film breaks Ghajini’s records. I will be happy but it will make Murugadoss sad.

Did you feel that you were the right choice for the role?
When I was offered the role I felt I was not the right choice for the role. It was a role meant for actors who are doing actions roles like Salman and Akshay they also had the physique for it. I spoke to Surya who did the Tamil version. I told him I was not suitable for the role. In return he told me that no one will be able to do it as I can. I got the confidence from him.

The villains name in the Tamil version of Ghajini is Laxman what made you change it to Ghajini?
Phonetically Ghajini sounded very nice. When the heroine dies she takes his name and the hero remembers this name very well as he has short term memory loss.

What is the credibility when you sign a film?
I had no idea that Taare Zameen Par would be such a huge success. I just followed my heart and I think that’s how films have been made for ages. I am thankful to people who have faith in my work. It does a have strong part in my success.”

Ghajini has been released and received well in Pakistan too. It was the first film to release after the 26/11 attacks.
Oh, I wasn’t aware of that but I am happy about it. There is a lot of warmth amongst the people of Pakistan. When we won the last cricket match they were cheering the Indian team. It is important for societies to have relationships. There have been terror attacks in Pakistan as well. I would appreciate if the Indian leaders would put some pressure on the Pakistan leaders to put an end to terrorism. We should be consistent and strong about this issue.”

SRK is truly ‘The King’ at the Golden Globes



January 13th, 2009

King Khan is transcending boundaries now. Quite literally!

Well, looks like as of now he can forget all about the competition from Kinng Kumar and the others.

He was introduced as the ‘King of Bollywood’ at the Golden Globe awards recently.

The self-proclaiming superstar must have been on top of the world as the applause came in front of a global audience.

Khan was in Los Angeles at the ceremony as a presenter making him the first Indian actor to make it to the Golden Globes as a presenter.

The 43-year-old actor attended the ceremony along with good friend Karan Johar and wife Gauri Khan.

He was joined on stage by ‘Slumdog Millionaire’ actress Freida Pinto who wore a golden gown.

King Khan wore a black suit with an open collar and paired it with a sequined tie on a red carpet, dominated by the traditional favorites black and blue.

Other big names on the presenter list were Johnny Depp, David Duchovny, Megan Fox, Eva Longoria, Sting and Mark Wahlberg.

Good old Bollywood has really taken him places.

Madhuri Back to College



January 13th, 2009

The dancing diva of Bollywood is the chief guest at the Sixteen Nine International Film Festival of Usha Pravin Gandhi college in Vileparle, Mumbai.

Madhuri would be coming to distribute the awards on 13th of January which is the final day of the two day festival as confirmed by the source from UPG.

Along with her other bollywood stars who would be giving away the awards include cute actor Imram Khan,producers Sanjay Gupta and Ravi Chopra,director Goldie Behl and veteran actress Shabana Azmi according to official website of the festival. Talented directors Anurag Kashyap and Aziz Mirza will inaugurate the festival. Hard Kaur ‘move your body’ fame will perform at the finale.

Aamir khan was the chief guest of this festival last year and he gave away the awards in different categories. He said he doesn’t attend award ceremonies but as this one was done by the students and he could’t say no to it also because he was the ex student of Narsee Monjee college at Ville Parle. He promised to keep himself free for this year as well but he couldn’t make it because of the busy shooting schedule of his forthcoming film 3idiots in Bangalore. He would be coming to Bombay today for a few hours to attend ghajni’s success party and to wish nephew Imran whose birthday is on 13th of this month.

Madhuri dixit is currently in town with her family and she was also the guest of honor at the International Kite Festival held at the club in Andheri, Mumbai on Sunday.

Juhi Chawla goes blonde for Luck by Chance



January 13th, 2009

Juhi Chawla is doing few and selected roles which are coming to her way. Interestingly she has reached to the stage of her career where she can choose her own characters. It is believed that though the length of her character in Zoya Akhtar’s Luck By Chance is not so big she chose to do it for its look.

Apparently she got an opportunity to do something which she hasn’t done before. Juhi has gone blonde to play the role of Minty Rolly (the producer’s wife) in Luck By Chance. She agreed to do the film even though her role was not big. We heard Juhi just loved the script and more than her character she fell in love with her look.

Her blonde look has been designed by B Blunt’s Avan Contractor. Well, it seems dream came true for Juhi.

Arjan Bajwa loves Dilli ki sardi



January 13th, 2009

Winters in Delhi can be quite harsh but fun too especially during the wedding season. The temperatures might be going down by the minute but the festivities are just increasing…and one person who can vouch for both is Arjan Bajwa.

Recently back from the Delhi he says, “I was there for one of my close friend’s wedding and even though it was so cold that even my bones were chattering it was still amazing fun. The angeethees, the hot yummy rich food, and the over-coats…it was all so incredible.”

He continues, “Even though the visibility had become close to nil, yet we made the most of it. I am a Delhi boy but since I have been in Mumbai so long that the cold did affect me and I have come back with a chill. But now that I am back I miss the love and warmth of the people and am waiting for my next visit.” He signs off.

Rahul Bose roots for the Mumbai Marathon 2009

January 13th, 2009

Rahul Bose feels that the Mumbai Marathon is the best community event to happen in the society today especially after the recent terror attacks. He feels that even after the recent attacks the city should not let its spirit die and infact come forward more aggressively to show their support and demand for better governance which we actually and truly deserve. He feels that this is the only opportunity that we have to come together and let all the differences melt away. The city should come together to show and share the spirit of oneness. is not surprising to see street girl without shoes running along with an actress wearing designer shoes. A Muslim shares water with a Hindu. This is the only time when we can demand governance we deserve. We can demand to have a cleaner and a corrupt less Mumbai,” he said. Rahul said that the Marathon was an event that did not demand any investment. “It just demands a heart.” The actor also said that in times where the atmosphere seemed uncongenial we needed to think in terms of WE. “I want to leave my niece Aalia a city that is a community of million minds and ideologies, aspirations and opinions, but a community all the same.”

Chandni Chowk’s.. paid previews take a terrific start



January 13th, 2009

Till about a couple of years back not much was heard about the concept of paid previews in India. Then came a few films that decided to take the plunge and saw a single late night show being run at select multiplexes a day before the official release of the film. However, GHAJINI completely changed the dynamics of paid previews as it saw number of paid previews being run at practically all multiplexes across the country a day before the release, something that not just helped the film gain additional moolah but also some terrific mileage and word of mouth prior to the official release.

Of course, a step like this comes with it’s risks since there are chances of the move backfiring in case of the film being bad but then GHAJINI was super confident about it’s equity and went ahead to take the plunge. Now CHANDNI CHOWK TO CHINA, the biggest and the widest release of 2009, has also shown such confidence and has decided to take a full-on approach with a late evening release on Thursday, 15th January. With huge demand for the film which is showing an exponential rise practically every day, the film will be shown on as many as 650 paid preview shows across the country on Thursday.

Says a source attached to the film, “Paid previews have opened just a couple of days back and the advance booking is already on the same scale as that of GHAJINI. We won’t be surprised if these shows fetch us better collections than what GHAJINI did during the paid previews. In fact at FAME chain of theaters, there would be 45 shows on Thursday night.”

Apparently, the film’s prospects are not just restricted to multiplexes since single screen theaters too are showing great demands. At Jodhpur, Thursday paid previews are said to be sold out for the entire theater that comprises of 1000 seats. “When a film is so strong at single screens, it is but natural that it would do well all over”, says the source hopefully.

Who is the real Devdas?



January 12th, 2009

Our new Devdaas Abhay Deol is a dedicating actor be it his role, film or film promotion. Just like our King Khan who believes in right marketing and promotion of the film. Not only that, Abhay’s aware of the fact that his fans have already started comparing him with Shah Rukh.

And why not Shah Rukh played Devdaas in Bhansali’s film! We asked this stunning actor about the comparison part. “Yes I am aware of the fact that I will be compared but it’s not that I will indulge in too much. I was compared to my family when I entered so I am used to being compared to the people in the industry. It’s not something necessary I like but also not something that I focus on either.”

He continues, “If I was compared to my brothers yesterday tomorrow I will be compared to Shah Rukh Khan so what’s the difference. That’s why I am not here to be compared and see how I rate. I am here to work.” Well that’s a smart answer Abhay.

Akki now to enter Patiala House



January 12th, 2009

Akshay Kumar looks set to repeat his Singh Is Kinng act again as he will be the male lead in the big budget venture Patiala House. Reprising his Sardar act, Akshay will be seen in the film which is about a huge joint family of sardars headed by Dara Singh. The film will be shot in Punjab later this year. The film is expected to be completed in one start to finish schedule. The heroine hasn’t been finalized yet but sources claim, it will most probably be Akki’s lucky mascot, Katrina Kaif. The film is being produced by the Chandni Chowk To China team of Nikhil Advani and Mukesh Talreja. Other details are to be finalized.

Salman’s big Valentines Day plan for Katrina Kaif



January 12th, 2009

Valentines Day is a month away but Salman Khan is already getting ready to shower an expensive gift on girlfriend Katrina Kaif.

Though there are rumors of a rift, things still don’t seem to be over for the two.

The buzz is that Salman has painted her many times while she’s been visiting the sets of his films and accompanying him on some of his mid-night adventures and has even rode an auto rickshaw with him.

Now Sallu’s big plan is to surprise her with a lavish Valentine’s Day gift.

He has chosen a plush apartment in Bandra and plans to gift it to her on Feb 14.

The flat’s location and its architecture go with Salman’s taste. He’s thinking of roping in Suzanne Roshan, Hrithik’s wife, to do the interiors.

The flat has a spacious living room space for paintings and portraits. It has two balconies overlooking the city in different directions. Apparently Salman wants to decorate the flat with some of his paintings before handing over the keys to Katrina next month.

Well, keeping in mind things like that, it seems all’s well in Sal-Kat’s paradise. So should we say, all the talks about Sallu being laid astray by Asin and the like are just rumors?

Salman Khan’s dream house plans for Katrina now on hold?



January 12th, 2009

All plans of Salman Khan to build a lavish bungalow were shattered when the construction rules forced him to change his plans. According to sources, Salman was interested in buying the plot where Starlet building stands on Carter Road. So he bought most of the flats by offering all the people staying there a very good price. But amongst them all those staying on the ground floor were not ready to move creating problems for quite a few months now.

It is said that Salman also had plans to gift a flat to Katrina in the new building which he was going to construct.

Currently Salman has to build a five storied building there because the sea facing area comes under the jurisdiction of the Coastal Regulation Zone and Environment Notification Act of 1996. According to this act, no construction activities should harm the environment or upset oceanographic Eco-systems.

But according to Salman’s spokesperson who denied all such rumors of Salman constructing a building he also said that Salman’s family already has flats there and they are going to get back the flats once the building is renovated.

Riya Sen on a weight losing spree



January 12th, 2009

Riya Sen started young, almost 12 years back and has tried all this while to gain an honorable position in Bollywood. But alas, that hasn’t been possible.

Not that she didn’t look sexy and glamorous at times. But Bollywood fame has always eluded her. She made news only for the wrong reasons.

As a model and as a brand ambassador of many renowned brands, she didn’t do badly. But acting never seemed her cup of tea.

Currently the actress has been obsessing about her weight.

She thinks she has gained much weight these days and is depressed about it.

That’s why she has become really crazy about attending spinning sessions and only eats health food.

But strangely she has been denying that she has gained weight and has been going around saying, “I’ve been size-zero all of my life. What’s the big deal about it?”

This babe really needs to try and understand that with zero acting skills a major change like that is not possible.

Working hard on her acting skills would be a much better idea.

Nikhil Dwivedi follows Akki mantra seriously



January 12th, 2009

Recently Akshay Kumar said that if I can make it big without a godfather, so can anyone. It seems like Nikhil has taken Akki’s mantra seriously. Ever since he made his modest debut in My Name is Anthony Gonsalves, Nikhil Dwivedi has always been tagged as a confident actor.

Not let down by the failure of his first film My Name Is Anthony Gonsolves, Nikhil still was very positive about his talent. No wonder he has won the coveted role of Lakshman in Mani Ratnam’s film Raavana. Buzz is that many actors were lobbying for the role which finally landed in Nikhil’s lap.

But when it comes to Mani Ratnam, it’s aptitude that matters more than anything else. Word is that Nikhil has already joined the team of Raavana in Orcha in Madhya Pradesh where they are shooting in complete secrecy till the end of this month. Nikhil will be sharing screen space with the likes of Aishwarya Rai, Abhishek Bachchan, Govinda and South star Vikram.

Celina Jaitley goes bold and brazen



January 12th, 2009

Ex Miss India Celina Jaitley has been trying hard for long to make it to the A-list in B-Town. But to avail.

All she’s managed is multi-starer films and unsubstantial roles.

But now we hear she’s trying to emulate Rani Mukerji. Considering the fact that Rani too is a passรฉ too now, it seems to be a rather odd decision though.

She’s supposedly playing a role, which is a mix of glamour and realism, very similar to Rani’s character in ‘Laaga Chunari Mein Daag’.

She will go fully bold and play a stripper in a flick titled ‘Showman’.

She says, “I play a half-English and half-Indian girl, who comes from very poor family in London. She grows up to be a stripper in a nightclub and a con-artist.”

We wonder how that’s similar to Rani’s character in ‘Laaga Chunari Mein Daag’. Well, the fate of the film and the movie seems to be already out in the open.

Aap Ki Kacheri rules the TRP charts



January 12th, 2009

Breaking all previous records, the common man’s ‘lok adalat’ on the television screen Aap Ki Kachehri Kiran Ke Saath gets the vote and rules the charts in the 10.30 p.m. slot among all Hindi GECs. STAR Plus presents its viewers with yet another innovative and path breaking show on Indian television. Today STAR Plus announces the extension of Aap Ki Kachehri Kiran Ke Saath by another 52 episodes on popular demand. Proving all the industry cynics wrong, the show is among the five top-rated Hindi general entertainment programmes, according to the latest data released by TAM Media Research.

Launched on December 1, 2008, Aap Ki Kachehri is the biggest weekday prime time launch of 2008. Different from the viewership history of this slot, Aap Ki Kachehri Kiran Ke Saath has a with a well-rounded audience profile with 47% viewership coming from a male audience. It has a 43% audience share in the Hindi GEC markets of the North and has delivered a whopping 7.5 TVR average in Delhi. The show has created ripples with markets like Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Rajasthan delivering phenomenally well. STAR Plus commands a lion’s share of television viewing during Aap Ki Kachehri - It is the leader in the slot with a 37% channel share, twice that of its closest competitor in the same slot.

Aap Ki Kachehri Kiran Ke Saath features real people, real cases and real situations with an aim to educate and entertain. It gets disputing parties on the small screen to discuss their issues, examine probable solutions and solve matters amicably, while educating viewers on the legal aspects of such situations. A unique format of a reality show, Aap Ki Kachehri Kiran Ke Saath, has provided television viewers in India a sneak peak into what life would be if there was an out-of-court arbitrator to solve day to day disputes that people find themselves involved in. This ‘lok-adalat’ format brings to our society a trusted and respected counsel in Kiran Bedi, and has proved that such platforms will be a huge success in India if replicated circumspectly outside of the television screen.

Speaking on Aap Ki Kachehri’s success and the extension of 52 episodes, Keertan Adyanthaya, EVP & GM, STAR Plus said, “The response from the viewers reaffirms that STAR Plus knows the pulse of its viewers and that the channel can act as a harbinger of social change through its content. At the time of launch of Aap Ki Kachehri Kiran Ke Saath, we went against the established ‘norms’ of what kind of show would work at this slot, but we strongly believed that as a nation we are ready to experiment with intellectual content set within the boundaries of our everyday lives. We are happy to say that our phone lines have not stopped ringing with people hoping that Kiran Bedi will be able to resolve their disputes – this along with the rising TRPs is proof that STAR Plus has presented exactly the kind of show viewers were waiting for.”

Siddhartha Basu, Producer - Big Synergy, says, “This is ‘Ghar Ghar Ki Kahani’ (every household’s tale) with the difference that nothing is fake or scripted, yet it touches many chords as the human interest is high. This is real life courtroom drama of conflict and resolution, dealing with common disputes and dilemmas that everyone can relate to. At the same time, it is an eye opener for many on relevant laws, rights, duties, and issues of balance, harmony and equity.”

Reaching out to over 66 million viewers every week, STAR Plus has always strived to create content which is engaging and entertaining while creating subtle themes for social change, helping our viewers improve their lives and of those around them. Aap Ki Kachehri airs on STAR Plus at 10.30 pm, every Monday to Thursday and now promises an extended viewing pleasure with many fresh cases and a fair, unbiased verdict that informs and entertains.

Rituparna Sengupta performs Muhurat for two Music Albums



January 12th, 2009

Famous and well known star of Hindi and Bangla films Rituparna Sengupta was the chief guest at the Muhurat function of two music albums, Gustakh Dil and Rab Janata Hai, at the Mumbai Country Club. These music video albums are being produced by R.S.Picture Production. Muhurat Puja was performed by Rituparna.

Rituparna Sengupta is busy doing more Hindi films than Bangla movies. Naturally she stays more in Mumbai and was able to take some time out from her busy schedule to attend this function along with her PRO Ashok Bhatia on the invitation of Producer Asha Singh. Rituparna wished success to these music video albums before talking about her upcoming films, Mittal vs. Mittal and SRK.

Producer of these albums Asha Singh belongs to Jaipur and this is her first venture being produced with her associate producer Vedprakash Yadav. Initially she had plans for a single album but when she saw the performance of Music Director Vishnu Narain and Lyricist Riri Azad she decided to produce another album simultaneously. She is in touch with Venus for marketing of these albums.Venus has recently launched a successful album, Tere Nam, by Riri Azad. Singers of these albums are Md.Salamat Khan, who has also sang for Dil De Chuke Sanam and Devdas, Krishna, Tarannum, and Sadhna Sargam.

These albums are being filmed on Sanjna Singh and Imran Khan. Sanjna has also worked in Zami se Asma tak while Imran Khan in Orh Le Chunariya, Ghav, and Veer. Many well known personalities of Bollywood graced the occasion. The programmed was conducted by Ashok Bhatia, who is also the publicist of these albums.

54th Filmfare Awards 2009, Filmfare Awards 2009 Nominations, 54th Filmfare Awards Predictions, Winners

January 11th, 2009

Filmfare Awards 2009: a 'calculated' Prediction on Bollywood Awards 2008

This time in 2008 Bollywood awards, SRK's fantastic act in Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi has intense competition from his favorite rivals: Hrithik Roshan and Aamir Khan. Hold on to your seats, get the popcorn out, and go through Filmfare Awards 2009. Though it is a tad early, here is a calculated prediction on the Filmfare Award 2009 and many other awards that will precede or follow it. You are free to argue on our choice of Filmfare Awards and other Bollywood awards.

Shakeel Ladak Amrita Arora Latest News



January 11th, 2009

Shakeel Ladak wants Amrita Arora to stop doing stage shows

This is as serious as it can get. Amrita Arora's fiance Shakeel Ladak whisked away her for a romantic getaway to Dubai in the last week of December.

The actress has been performing at New Year's Eve shows for the last four years. This year, though, she decided to spend it with her man.

Since the duo are gearing up to get hitched soon, she now wants to cut down on her shows. Shakeel doesn't approve of his girl gyrating at public shows.

Most actresses do shows because it is quick money. But Amu's rich beau feels there is no need for her to do shows. Like her best friend Kareena Kapoor, Amrita is also bowing down to the diktats of her boyfriend.

So this year, the Arora girl took a break instead and brought in 2009 with cousins in Dubai with a few friends.'


Kareena Kapoor star Screen Awards BackOut | Not to Perform at Star Screen Awards



January 11th, 2009

Kareena Kapoor has backed out of the grand finale of the Screen Film awards. The act titled Five Divas had Bebo along with Priyanka Chopra, Bipasha Basu, Katrina Kaif and Deepika Padukone performing.

An insider reveals that Bebo had agreed to participate, but when she heard the names of the other female stars performing with her, she backed out.

"Kareena feels that Deepika is a newcomer, while Katrina still has a long way to come up to her level. So she cannot perform with them. She doesn't want to be seen in the same bracket as these actresses."

Another reason why Kareena decided against performing as part of the five divas is on her sister Karisma's advice. "Lolo asked her to stay away from group acts, and also cut down on stage shows. Kareena takes her advice very seriously and made up her mind after discussing it with her," adds the source.

Bebo was offered a huge amount for the finale but she didn't budge from her decision. The source continues, "The organisers were very keen on getting Kareena as they felt that the diva act wouldn't be complete without her. However, she asked them how Deepika and Katrina were qualified to be in the same league as her. After they refused to give her a solo act, Kareena decided not to participate."

Akshay Kumar Earnings in 2008 | Akshay IT Return

January 11th, 2009

Akshay Kumar Earned around 90 Crores in 2008 financial year and has paid tax of around 19 Crores , more than any bollywood star. He has left shahrukh khan behind in terms of earnings and tax paid.

2009 Golden Globe Awards Nominees/Nominations for TV (the 2009 Golden Globe Awards Winners for TV will be highlighted as announced)

January 11th, 2009

Best Television Series, Drama

* Dexter
* House
* In Treatment
* Mad Men
* True Blood

Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series, Drama

* Sally Field, Brothers & Sisters
* Mariska Hargitay, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit
* January Jones, Mad Men
* Anna Paquin, True Blood
* Kyra Sedgwick, The Closer

Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series, Drama

* Gabriel Byrne, In Treatment
* Michael C. Hall, Dexter
* Jon Hamm, Mad Men
* Hugh Laurie, House
* Jonathan Rhys Meyers, The Tudors

Best Television Series, Comedy or Musical

* 30 Rock
* Californication
* Entourage
* The Office
* Weeds

Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series, Comedy or Musical

* Christina Applegate, Samantha Who?
* America Ferrera, Ugly Betty
* Tina Fey, 30 Rock
* Debra Messing, The Starter Wife
* Mary-Louise Parker, Weeds

Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series, Comedy or Musical

* Alec Baldwin, 30 Rock
* Steve Carell, The Office
* Kevin Connolly, Entourage
* David Duchovny, Californication
* Tony Shalhoub, Monk

Best Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television

* A Raisin in the Sun
* Bernard and Doris
* Cranford
* John Adams
* Recount

Best Performance by an Actress in a Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television

* Judi Dench, Cranford
* Catherine Keener, An American Crime
* Laura Linney, John Adams
* Shirley MacLaine, Coco Chanel
* Susan Sarandon, Bernard and Doris

Best Performance by an Actor in a Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television

* Ralph Fiennes, Bernard and Doris
* Paul Giamatti, John Adams
* Kevin Spacey, Recount
* Kiefer Sutherland, 24: Redemption
* Tom Wilkinson, Recount

Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role in a Series, Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television

* Eileen Atkins, Cranford
* Laura Dern, Recount
* Melissa George, In Treatment
* Rachel Griffiths, Brothers & Sisters
* Dianne Wiest, In Treatment

Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in a Series, Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television

* Neil Patrick Harris, How I Met Your Mother
* Denis Leary, Recount
* Jeremy Piven, Entourage
* Blair Underwood, In Treatment
* Tom Wilkinson, John Adams

2009 Golden Globe Awards Nominees/Nominations for Film (the 2009 Golden Globe Awards Winners for Film will be highlighted as announced)

January 11th, 2009

Best Motion Picture, Drama

* The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
* Frost/Nixon
* The Reader
* Revolutionary Road
* Slumdog Millionaire

Best Motion Picture, Comedy

* Burn After Reading
* Happy-Go-Lucky
* In Bruges
* Mamma Mia!
* Vicky Cristina Barcelona

Best Actor, Drama

* Leonardo DiCaprio, Revolutionary Road
* Frank Langella, Frost/Nixon
* Sean Penn, Milk
* Brad Pitt, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
* Mickey Rourke, The Wrestler

Best Actress, Drama

* Anne Hathaway, Rachel Getting Married
* Angelina Jolie, Changeling
* Meryl Streep, Doubt
* Kristin Scott Thomas, I've Loved You So Long
* Kate Winslet, Revolutionary Road

Best Actor, Comedy or Musical

* Javier Bardem, Vicky Cristina Barcelona
* Colin Farrell, In Bruges
* James Franco, Pineapple Express
* Brendan Gleeson, In Bruges
* Dustin Hoffman, Last Chance Harvey

Best Actress, Comedy or Musical

* Rebecca Hall, Vicky Cristina Barcelona
* Sally Hawkins, Happy-Go-Lucky
* Frances McDormand, Burn After Reading
* Meryl Streep, Mamma Mia!
* Emma Thompson, Last Chance Harvey

Best Supporting Actor

* Tom Cruise, Tropic Thunder
* Robert Downey Jr., Tropic Thunder
* Ralph Fiennes, The Duchess
* Philip Seymour Hoffman, Doubt
* Heath Ledger, The Dark Knight

Best Supporting Actress

* Amy Adams, Doubt
* Penรฉlope Cruz, Vicky Cristina Barcelona
* Viola Davis, Doubt
* Marisa Tomei, The Wrestler
* Kate Winslet, The Reader

Best Director

* Danny Boyle, Slumdog Millionaire
* Stephen Daldry, The Reader
* David Fincher, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
* Ron Howard, Frost/Nixon
* Sam Mendes, Revolutionary Road

Best Screenplay

* Simon Beaufoy, Slumdog Millionaire
* David Hare, The Reader
* Peter Morgan, Frost/Nixon
* Eric Roth, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
* John Patrick Shanley, Doubt

Best Foreign Language Film

* The Baader Meinhof Complex (Germany)
* Everlasting Moments (Sweden)
* Gomorrah (Italy)
* I've Loved You So Long (France)
* Waltz With Bashir (Israel)

Best Animated Feature Film

* Bolt
* Kung Fu Panda
* WALL-E

Best Original Score

* Alexandre Desplat, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
* Clint Eastwood, Changeling
* James Newton Howard, Defiance
* A.R. Rahman, Slumdog Millionaire
* Hans Zimmer, Frost/Nixon

Best Original Song

* "Down to Earth," WALL-E; music by Peter Gabriel, Thomas Newman; lyrics by Peter Gabriel
* "Gran Torino," Gran Torino; music by Clint Eastwood, Jamie Cullum, Kyle Eastwood, Michael Stevens; lyrics by Kyle Eastwood, Michael Stevens
* "I Thought I Lost You," Bolt; music & lyrics by Miley Cyrus, Jeffrey Steele
* "Once in a Lifetime," Cadillac Records; music & lyrics by Beyoncรฉ Knowles, Amanda Ghost, Scott McFarnon, Ian Dench, James Dring, Jody Street
* "The Wrestler," The Wrestler; music & lyrics by Bruce Springsteen

Akshay Invites Amitabh | akshay Kumar has invited Amitabh Bachchan for CC2C Premiere

January 12th, 2009

Akshay has from the start had a high regard for the Big B. He was the one who recently said unequivocally that Amitabh is the real king of Bollywood no matter what other stars go on proclaiming.

Now, Akshay wants Big B to be present at the London premiere of 'CC2C'. Akki personally called Big B to invite him. And since Amitabh is presently in London for make-up tests for his forthcoming venture Pa , it makes easy for him to attend the premiere.

Big B wrote on his blog: "Akshay called at 5.30 a.m. and said, 'CC2C is premiering at Leicester Square, London, on January 12. I shall be honoured if you could come and join us.' I told him I shall."

However, Akshay also cautioned Big B: "Just don't bring your brains and thinking cap along."

True indeed. 'CC2C' is a madcap comedy about a Chandni Chowk cook who is taken to China after being mistaken as the reincarnation of a warrior.

The film has already premiered at Los Angeles, New York and Toronto. London is the fourth destination of the grand international premiere. After this, the film will be showcased in Dubai and Bangkok. A Chinese premiere has been canceled.