Last Saturday was a very special and auspicious day in the life of Love Sex Aur Dhokha director Dibakar Banerjee.
For he and wife Richa brought home an adopted daughter that day thus ending months of paper work, interviews and cross-checking before a reputed orphanage in Mumbai allowed the couple the right to adopt a child. Yesterday, Dibakar said, “We’ve named her Ira.We switched off completely from the world over the weekend to get to know our daughter.”
Dibakar has, in fact, been grappling with the long and winding procedure for adoption while making the quirky and well received LSD. He was in and out of the orphanage practically every day even while doing post-production work on his film during the night. “It has been a stressful time,” admitted the director, “but everything has worked out finally.”
With LSD proving to be a success, it truly is the beginning of a new ‘Ira’ for this avant-garde director. Incidentally, Dibakar is the second director to adopt a child. Two years ago Nikhil Advani adopted a baby girl Keya. Subhash Ghai, too, has an adopted daughter.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Vikram,Sush's spooky reunion
Vikram Bhatt directed Sushmita Sen in her very first film Dastak. What followed was a tumultuous relationship followed by a rather amicable breakup. Vikram never really lost touch with Sushmita and has admitted she holds a very special place in his life to this day.
It therefore comes as no surprise that Vikram is set to cast her in his most expensive and ambitious project to date. After three back-to-back supernatural thrillers, Vikram is ready to make India’s first 3-D horror film, to be titled Yama Dwar.
Says Vikram, “How long can I go on tapping the genre in its given format? So I’m doing a 3-D horror film. The concept of the door to the other word is a part of Hindu mythology.
I’m ready to tackle the subject on cinema - it has never been done before. But it has to be done on a lavish scale.” The technical expertise, says Vikram, will have to be imported.
As for the casting, Vikram says, “It is an out-and-out female-centric film. I need a strong, assertive, beautiful actress who is in touch with her spiritual side.”
It therefore comes as no surprise that Vikram is set to cast her in his most expensive and ambitious project to date. After three back-to-back supernatural thrillers, Vikram is ready to make India’s first 3-D horror film, to be titled Yama Dwar.
Says Vikram, “How long can I go on tapping the genre in its given format? So I’m doing a 3-D horror film. The concept of the door to the other word is a part of Hindu mythology.
I’m ready to tackle the subject on cinema - it has never been done before. But it has to be done on a lavish scale.” The technical expertise, says Vikram, will have to be imported.
As for the casting, Vikram says, “It is an out-and-out female-centric film. I need a strong, assertive, beautiful actress who is in touch with her spiritual side.”
Akshay sinks teeth into Kat
Katrina Kaif’s health problems just don’t seem to end. After several health scares, including a recent one when she fainted on the sets of Tees Maar Khan, on Friday evening Katrina was injured on the film’s sets when Akshay Kumar’s jaw accidently hit her head while shooting a dance sequence at Malshej Ghat.
A source said, “It was a ballet-like dance sequence and Katrina’s head bumped into Akshay’s jaws and his teeth hurt her head badly. Katrina immediately realised the gravity of the injury as director Farah Khan rushed towards her. Since it was a head injury, Katrina felt dizzy for a few minutes but immediate care was taken to make her feel better.
When Akshay saw that Katrina’s head was bleeding due to the impact, he told her that she will have to take at least four stitches. The very thought that she would need stitches made Katrina all the more scared and she almost started crying when Farah stepped in and told Akshay to not scare her anymore.
A doctor was called to the sets to have a look at Katrina’s injury before she left for the day. Akshay couldn’t help but joke that though he is an action hero, it is Katrina who keeps getting injured. First she fainted on the sets, and now this injury.”
Farah Khan remained unavailable for comment as she was shooting in a no network zone in Malshej Ghat. However, the spokesperson of Tees Maar Khan confirmed and said, “Yes, Katrina did get injured badly after which Akshay kept pulling her leg. Katrina is fine now and has resumed shooting.”
A source said, “It was a ballet-like dance sequence and Katrina’s head bumped into Akshay’s jaws and his teeth hurt her head badly. Katrina immediately realised the gravity of the injury as director Farah Khan rushed towards her. Since it was a head injury, Katrina felt dizzy for a few minutes but immediate care was taken to make her feel better.
When Akshay saw that Katrina’s head was bleeding due to the impact, he told her that she will have to take at least four stitches. The very thought that she would need stitches made Katrina all the more scared and she almost started crying when Farah stepped in and told Akshay to not scare her anymore.
A doctor was called to the sets to have a look at Katrina’s injury before she left for the day. Akshay couldn’t help but joke that though he is an action hero, it is Katrina who keeps getting injured. First she fainted on the sets, and now this injury.”
Farah Khan remained unavailable for comment as she was shooting in a no network zone in Malshej Ghat. However, the spokesperson of Tees Maar Khan confirmed and said, “Yes, Katrina did get injured badly after which Akshay kept pulling her leg. Katrina is fine now and has resumed shooting.”
Sunday, March 28, 2010
I'm here for Nandita:Dino
Dino Morea made for an encouraging audience member at ex-girlfriend, designer Nandita Mahtani's debut show at the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week Sunday, as he cheered for her, fuelling rumours that the two have got back together once again.
Though he was spotted enjoying the music and her designs on the ramp, Dino started cheering rather loudly for Nandita when she took to the ramp for the ceremonial bow after her show. When asked by a reporter as to what he came to WIFW for, he said: "Of course, I am here for Nandita." Looking handsome and charming in black shirt and trousers, Dino sat in the first row for his lady love with whom he has been sharing an on and off relationship over the years.
For her debut show at WIFW, Nandita displayed an evening wear resort line in colours ranging from black and olive to brown, tan, skin and a dash of white. A lot of sequins, chains and stones were used on an assortment of dresses, ultra short skirts, hot pants, vests, jackets as well as flowing long dresses. "My collection is edgy and glamorous with simple and sexy silhouettes," she told reporters after the show.
Kangana's female fantasies
Kangna Ranaut, who is a huge Sridevi fan, also likes two other Bollywood beauties. One is Madhuri Dixit Nene, whose secretary Rikku Rakeshnath is now looking after Kangna’s work.
And the second is the ethereal Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. Says Kangna, “The reason I like Madhuri and Aishwarya is because they are female superstars.
Not only do they hold their own on screen even if the biggest hero is around, in many cases their star-power dwarfs many heroes.” Kangna wishes that she is someday in the enviable mould of a Madhuri or Aishwarya who she feels are evergreen beauties.
A lullaby for Vivek
Blame it on the fresh new Kurbaan accent or just his sweet charm, Vivek Oberoi is a popular guy with girls overseas.
Recently the effervescent lad was unable to sleep in the night. So he put out a status message on a popular networking site, saying that he was unable to sleep and hoped someone would sing him a lullaby.
And while many fans commented on his wish, one resourceful teenager from London decided to be more proactive. Instead of writing a comment on the site the girl immediately recorded a lullaby and uploaded it online and asked him to hear it.
So touched was Vivek with this simple gesture that he now refers to this fan as his ‘Choti Rajkumari’! Why Rajkumari, Vivek? Your fans are hardly royalty man!
Hrithik also sings
He was a bundle of nerves about the idea but Bollywood heartthrob Hrithik Roshan finally agreed to turn singer for his highly-anticipated film 'Kites' after prodding by director Anurag Basu.
"I was nervous to make my debut as a singer considering I come from a family that is well known in the world of music, but for this very reason my chacha (Rajesh Roshan) and Anurag were most certain that I could sing," Hrithik said.
The 36-year-old actor's debut song, 'Kites in the Sky', composed music by Rajesh Roshan would be released tomorrow along with other songs of the film.
"I have given this song my best and honest shot, but I still don't consider myself a professional singer," Hrithik said. Basu spotted Hrithik's singing talent when they were casually jamming one evening after dinner.
"After that when I told him to sing for 'Kites', he wasn't too sure initially but he agreed to give it a try," Basu said. Praising Hrithik's potential as a singer, Basu even suggested that the actor has an alternative career in the world of music.
"He is a natural singer and has the talent in his genes. I only did my job by tapping it. Hrithik has a good career ahead as a singer," he said.
Produced by Rakesh Roshan, the romantic saga 'Kites', which also stars Mexican actress Barbara Mori, Kangana Ranaut and Kabir Bedi, would hit the silver screen on May 21.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Dimpy gets massage from Rahul
Post a muscle pull, Dimpy did get a massage from Rahul; the latter’s only too proud of his wife’s popularity and doesn’t rule out featuring together on television. No April Fool’s joke, this! The newly-married couple reaches Kolkata on April 1 for a grand reception..
Detractors can take a hike! The telly bonding of Rahul Mahajan and the now, Dimpy Ganguly-Mahajan, is growing from strength to strength. The duo, back from their honeymoon in Maldives, is setting foot in Kolkata. It’s no April Fool’s joke that they will be coming down on April 1 to attend the reception hosted by the bride’s family. Marriage is bliss, they say.
For starters, Rahul says he enjoyed every minute, far from the madding crowd. “We were secluded from the rest of the world. That helped us understand each other better. There were no cameras, nobody speculating our relationship, 24x7,” he explains. The best part, he says, was when Dimpy, a non-vegetarian would have a simple meal of dal-chawal with him and Rahul, in turn, would go fishing with his bride. “That was some experience. Locals in Maldives would ask for Dimpy’s autographs first. She even got 6,700 friend requests on a social networking site. Tell me, which man wouldn’t be proud of his wife’s popularity?”
Dimpy, on her part, admits that she has never been abroad and that the experience was breathtaking. “Everything was so beautiful. I kept wondering whether this is for real! Fourteen days passed in a jiffy. We were so engrossed in each other,” she smiles. So, did Rahul give her the much-promised massage? “I did a full course in scuba-diving. In fact, I’m a certified scuba-diver now. When I sprained my back, Rahul did give me a massage,” she giggles, adding that it was a great feeling, not just walking together, but even swimming together, underwater.
Even though the couple arrives on April 1, Rahul will be flying back on April 4. Kolkata’s newest jamai says his relationship with the city goes back a long way. “Earlier, I had shot in the city for a programme, in places like Tollygunge Club and Lahabari. A frequent flier, Kolkata is also my fave stopover.” A concerned husband, he talks about the need for Dimpy to spend time with her family. “She has just not been able to do that. It’s obvious for her family to have some expectations.”
On April 2, the couple will be visiting Dakshineswar Kali temple in the morning before gearing up for the reception at a city hotel in the evening. “We couldn’t invite all our friends and family to the wedding since it was happening at a restricted area. My mom will be flying in with me,” Rahul adds. For the reception, the bride plans to wear a Sabyasachi or a Neeta Lulla sari, even though Rahul is yet to make up his mind. The menu will have both Bengali and Chinese fare since Dimpy says, “I like both. There’s going to be paturi and chingri for sure.”
And what about career decisions now that the celebrations are going to be over soon? “Both of us are getting a couple of offers. We aren’t ruling out the option of working together,” Rahul says.
With all made-for-each-other bites, one can’t help but jump to one conclusion: marriages, in today’s times, can definitely be made on television!
Detractors can take a hike! The telly bonding of Rahul Mahajan and the now, Dimpy Ganguly-Mahajan, is growing from strength to strength. The duo, back from their honeymoon in Maldives, is setting foot in Kolkata. It’s no April Fool’s joke that they will be coming down on April 1 to attend the reception hosted by the bride’s family. Marriage is bliss, they say.
For starters, Rahul says he enjoyed every minute, far from the madding crowd. “We were secluded from the rest of the world. That helped us understand each other better. There were no cameras, nobody speculating our relationship, 24x7,” he explains. The best part, he says, was when Dimpy, a non-vegetarian would have a simple meal of dal-chawal with him and Rahul, in turn, would go fishing with his bride. “That was some experience. Locals in Maldives would ask for Dimpy’s autographs first. She even got 6,700 friend requests on a social networking site. Tell me, which man wouldn’t be proud of his wife’s popularity?”
Dimpy, on her part, admits that she has never been abroad and that the experience was breathtaking. “Everything was so beautiful. I kept wondering whether this is for real! Fourteen days passed in a jiffy. We were so engrossed in each other,” she smiles. So, did Rahul give her the much-promised massage? “I did a full course in scuba-diving. In fact, I’m a certified scuba-diver now. When I sprained my back, Rahul did give me a massage,” she giggles, adding that it was a great feeling, not just walking together, but even swimming together, underwater.
Even though the couple arrives on April 1, Rahul will be flying back on April 4. Kolkata’s newest jamai says his relationship with the city goes back a long way. “Earlier, I had shot in the city for a programme, in places like Tollygunge Club and Lahabari. A frequent flier, Kolkata is also my fave stopover.” A concerned husband, he talks about the need for Dimpy to spend time with her family. “She has just not been able to do that. It’s obvious for her family to have some expectations.”
On April 2, the couple will be visiting Dakshineswar Kali temple in the morning before gearing up for the reception at a city hotel in the evening. “We couldn’t invite all our friends and family to the wedding since it was happening at a restricted area. My mom will be flying in with me,” Rahul adds. For the reception, the bride plans to wear a Sabyasachi or a Neeta Lulla sari, even though Rahul is yet to make up his mind. The menu will have both Bengali and Chinese fare since Dimpy says, “I like both. There’s going to be paturi and chingri for sure.”
And what about career decisions now that the celebrations are going to be over soon? “Both of us are getting a couple of offers. We aren’t ruling out the option of working together,” Rahul says.
With all made-for-each-other bites, one can’t help but jump to one conclusion: marriages, in today’s times, can definitely be made on television!
Hollywood can wait: Priyanka
She might be one of the most ambitious actresses in Bollywood today, but Priyanka Chopra knows what her priorities are.
While most of our Bollywood actresses would never miss a chance to star in a Hollywood film, Priyanka recently refused to star in Dawn of War. And it wasn’t because she didn’t like the script. The only reason Priyanka turned down the offer was because she chose to star in Vishal Bhardwaj’s Saat Khoon Maaf instead.
A source said, “The dates of Dawn of War and Saat Khoon Maaf were being worked out at the same time and Priyanka was asked to allot her dates in early April.
Left with no choice but to choose one of the two projects, Priyanka didn’t think twice before agreeing to star in Bhardwaj’s film. Priyanka was given a copy of the script of Dawn of War while she was shooting in the US for Siddharth Anand’s Anjaana Anjaani.”
After Priyanka refused the offer, director Tarsem Singh signed Freida Pinto to star opposite British actor Henry Cavill. Priyanka is currently shooting in Gulmarg and Srinagar for Saat Khoon Maaf and remained unavailable for comment.
While most of our Bollywood actresses would never miss a chance to star in a Hollywood film, Priyanka recently refused to star in Dawn of War. And it wasn’t because she didn’t like the script. The only reason Priyanka turned down the offer was because she chose to star in Vishal Bhardwaj’s Saat Khoon Maaf instead.
A source said, “The dates of Dawn of War and Saat Khoon Maaf were being worked out at the same time and Priyanka was asked to allot her dates in early April.
Left with no choice but to choose one of the two projects, Priyanka didn’t think twice before agreeing to star in Bhardwaj’s film. Priyanka was given a copy of the script of Dawn of War while she was shooting in the US for Siddharth Anand’s Anjaana Anjaani.”
After Priyanka refused the offer, director Tarsem Singh signed Freida Pinto to star opposite British actor Henry Cavill. Priyanka is currently shooting in Gulmarg and Srinagar for Saat Khoon Maaf and remained unavailable for comment.
Stop hair oil ads: Shatru to Big B
Taking an apparent potshot at megastar Amitabh Bachchan, actor-turned-politician Shatrughan Sinha wondered why the veteran appeared in candy and hair oil advertisements.
"I do not understand the need for him (Amitabh) to appear in endorsements and ads for things like 'Hajmola' and various hair oils. I would advise him to refrain from this," Sinha said here at a function yesterday.
The BJP MP was in the city for the promotion of his son Luv Sinha's Bollywood debut vehicle 'Sadiyaan', starring yesteryear actors like Hema Malini, Rekha and Rishi Kapoor.
On the Bandra-Worli sealink opening row, Sinha however, said Amitabh's presence at the function showed his "simplicity and large-heartedness" despite the invitation arguments.
The leader also took a dig at Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan, who said that he was unaware of Amitabh's presence at the event and that he would not have attended it if he knew about it.
"He (Chavan) appeared to be in awe of Amitabh on the dais but later changed his stance owing to the fracas," Sinha said.
Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Sushma Swaraj was also present in the function.
"I do not understand the need for him (Amitabh) to appear in endorsements and ads for things like 'Hajmola' and various hair oils. I would advise him to refrain from this," Sinha said here at a function yesterday.
The BJP MP was in the city for the promotion of his son Luv Sinha's Bollywood debut vehicle 'Sadiyaan', starring yesteryear actors like Hema Malini, Rekha and Rishi Kapoor.
On the Bandra-Worli sealink opening row, Sinha however, said Amitabh's presence at the function showed his "simplicity and large-heartedness" despite the invitation arguments.
The leader also took a dig at Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan, who said that he was unaware of Amitabh's presence at the event and that he would not have attended it if he knew about it.
"He (Chavan) appeared to be in awe of Amitabh on the dais but later changed his stance owing to the fracas," Sinha said.
Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Sushma Swaraj was also present in the function.
Friday, March 26, 2010
Neil, Asin 'good friends'
After splitting with his childhood sweetheart Priyanka, Neil Nitin Mukesh is thankfully not doing a Devdas number.
His idea of getting over heartbreak is rather simple: seek the company of beautiful women to take his mind off the break-up. A few days ago, he went with Deepika Padukone to watch a film at Juhu. Last Friday, he was spotted in a suburban five-star restaurant (in Santacruz East) with Asin.
A source says, “The two looked very, very comfortable with each other. They came together, they left together.” Talking to us from Bangkok, where he is shooting for two commercials, Neil confirmed that he had gone out with Asin. He said, “Asin and I are friends. We’ve been wanting to go out for dinner for some time now. Last week, everything fell into place and it just happened.”
Is he dating the Ghajini girl, we asked? “No, baba. I am not dating anybody. I am single and enjoying my single status.”
And how does he know Asin so well, considering that he hasn’t worked with her yet? Neil replied mischievously, “Oh, come on. In Bollywood, you don’t need to work with someone to be friends with them. It’s a small world, yaar.” Talking about his outing with Deepika, he said, “She is a good friend and a co-star in Pradeep Sarkar’s film. She and I went to see Karthik Calling Karthik, where she plays the female lead. Big deal, man!”
His idea of getting over heartbreak is rather simple: seek the company of beautiful women to take his mind off the break-up. A few days ago, he went with Deepika Padukone to watch a film at Juhu. Last Friday, he was spotted in a suburban five-star restaurant (in Santacruz East) with Asin.
A source says, “The two looked very, very comfortable with each other. They came together, they left together.” Talking to us from Bangkok, where he is shooting for two commercials, Neil confirmed that he had gone out with Asin. He said, “Asin and I are friends. We’ve been wanting to go out for dinner for some time now. Last week, everything fell into place and it just happened.”
Is he dating the Ghajini girl, we asked? “No, baba. I am not dating anybody. I am single and enjoying my single status.”
And how does he know Asin so well, considering that he hasn’t worked with her yet? Neil replied mischievously, “Oh, come on. In Bollywood, you don’t need to work with someone to be friends with them. It’s a small world, yaar.” Talking about his outing with Deepika, he said, “She is a good friend and a co-star in Pradeep Sarkar’s film. She and I went to see Karthik Calling Karthik, where she plays the female lead. Big deal, man!”
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Salman cares for hair
Salman Khan continues to surprise. This Bollywood superstar may look like he doesn’t care about anything in the world but he has a lot of gyaan.
He was recently discussing women’s hair-dressing secrets with one of his aides. And he had details on everything from relaxing to re-bonding.
And even the latest smoothening hair tactics. He actually surprised a female assistant by telling her, “Why don’t you get yourself a Brazilian blow dry? That is the latest hair trick. These girls -Katrina, my sister Arpita and all of them have got it done. It’s a hair smoothening treatment that is better than even the re-bonding.”
He was recently discussing women’s hair-dressing secrets with one of his aides. And he had details on everything from relaxing to re-bonding.
And even the latest smoothening hair tactics. He actually surprised a female assistant by telling her, “Why don’t you get yourself a Brazilian blow dry? That is the latest hair trick. These girls -Katrina, my sister Arpita and all of them have got it done. It’s a hair smoothening treatment that is better than even the re-bonding.”
Akshay is the original Khiladi: Priyanka
Bollywood actress Priyanka Chopra, who is all set to replace actor Akshay Kumar as the host of reality show 'Khatron Ke Khiladi', insists she can never step into his shoes.
"I can never step into his shoes because they are very big shoes to fill. Akshay is the original 'Khiladi'. He is super good at what he does," Priyanka said. "He has taken the show to a different level and my effort will be to take it forward from there. He has already made my job easier," she added.
The actor was the host for the reality show in 2009, which had 13 women - models and actresses - taking part in it. Akshay popularised the show with his daring stunts, which is an Indian version of the US reality show 'Fear Factor'. Now Priyanka will be anchoring the special IPL Edition of the show on Colors, which will have 13 Indian and international cricketers competing with each other.
The 27-year-old actress had made her Bollywood debut opposite Akshay in 2003 film 'Andaaz' and also went on to star with him in films including 'Aitraaz', 'Mujhse Shaadi Karogi' and 'Waqt: Race Against Time'. The national award-winning actress, who was in the capital to launch four new body wash variants from Lux, has three films in the pipeline. "My next film 'Anjana Anjani' will release in July or August. I am also starting work on 'Saat Khoon Maaf' with Vishal Bhardwaj and once 'Khatron..' is finished, I will start shooting for 'Don 2'," said Priyanka.
"I can never step into his shoes because they are very big shoes to fill. Akshay is the original 'Khiladi'. He is super good at what he does," Priyanka said. "He has taken the show to a different level and my effort will be to take it forward from there. He has already made my job easier," she added.
The actor was the host for the reality show in 2009, which had 13 women - models and actresses - taking part in it. Akshay popularised the show with his daring stunts, which is an Indian version of the US reality show 'Fear Factor'. Now Priyanka will be anchoring the special IPL Edition of the show on Colors, which will have 13 Indian and international cricketers competing with each other.
The 27-year-old actress had made her Bollywood debut opposite Akshay in 2003 film 'Andaaz' and also went on to star with him in films including 'Aitraaz', 'Mujhse Shaadi Karogi' and 'Waqt: Race Against Time'. The national award-winning actress, who was in the capital to launch four new body wash variants from Lux, has three films in the pipeline. "My next film 'Anjana Anjani' will release in July or August. I am also starting work on 'Saat Khoon Maaf' with Vishal Bhardwaj and once 'Khatron..' is finished, I will start shooting for 'Don 2'," said Priyanka.
Roshans accept son-in-law
On March 18, we broke the story of Sunaina Roshan’s (Hrithik Roshan’s sister) secret marriage to Mohan Nagar. The Roshans were livid but blood is thicker than water and the strong family ties could not keep the family members away from each other for long.
Sunaina had earlier told Mumbai Mirror that she would convince her parents to accept the new man in her life. “They’ll come around in the next few months. I will convince them,” she had said. And she managed to do just that.
Rakesh and Pinky Roshan have finally accepted Mohan as part of their family. The reunion took place early this week. Sunaina and Mohan, who now stay in Lokhandwala, were seen visiting the Roshans at their Palazzio residence in Juhu, early this week.
A source says, “Pinky and Rakesh welcomed them with open arms. Hrithik also met them. Pinky and Rakesh have been very close to Sunaina, and though they were upset because of her sudden marriage, one always knew that it was just a matter of time before they reconciled. They are delighted to see that Sunaina is very happy with Mohan.”
Sunaina confirms the news. “We are one big happy family now. My parents couldn’t have asked for a better son-in-law. Koi problem nahi hai abhi,” she says.
Sunaina had earlier told Mumbai Mirror that she would convince her parents to accept the new man in her life. “They’ll come around in the next few months. I will convince them,” she had said. And she managed to do just that.
Rakesh and Pinky Roshan have finally accepted Mohan as part of their family. The reunion took place early this week. Sunaina and Mohan, who now stay in Lokhandwala, were seen visiting the Roshans at their Palazzio residence in Juhu, early this week.
A source says, “Pinky and Rakesh welcomed them with open arms. Hrithik also met them. Pinky and Rakesh have been very close to Sunaina, and though they were upset because of her sudden marriage, one always knew that it was just a matter of time before they reconciled. They are delighted to see that Sunaina is very happy with Mohan.”
Sunaina confirms the news. “We are one big happy family now. My parents couldn’t have asked for a better son-in-law. Koi problem nahi hai abhi,” she says.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Rahul’s swayamvar cheap: Payal
She usually goes with a ‘no comments’ response when enquired about Rahul Mahajan’s wedding on reality TV, but for once, Payal Rohatgi is ready to call a spade a spade. And she calls this one a “cheap show.”
“I understand reality shows are the flavour of the season, and Bigg Boss got me the kind of publicity that nothing else did. But you have to have limits to how far you can go to get what you want. This swayamvar on television looks like a very desperate bid to get money and fame,” says Payal. “The next reality show on TV will be what? A honeymoon or a child’s delivery?” she asks, apparently disgusted at the thought, and then adds, “I wouldn’t want to jeopardise my career by being part of something like this.”
That, of course, doesn’t mean that Payal has had enough of reality TV. She almost agreed to do another reality show - one being made on the backdrop of a village - but backed out later. And she’s now training her sight on Bollywood. “I know television is a strong medium today but I want to grow as a film actor,” she says. “Also, doing TV is very strenuous. It takes a toll on you. I did one show in 2008 (Bigg Boss Season 2) and spent the whole of 2009 recouping from it,” she laughs. “On the other hand, movies have their own pace and time, you know, they have more substantive roles to offer to an actor.”
And the movie she will be giving her time to requires her to get into the shoes of a television journalist. Payal doesn’t want to say too much too soon and would rather wait for the movie to go on the floor before talking about it, but she does tell us that the film is being made around 26/11 and shows “how journalists need to control their emotions even at such precarious times and yet work to secure TRPs for their channels.”
And while she doesn’t feel she needs to do too much homework - having seen enough TV journalists in her life - for this role, she does take acting seriously. And there’s reason to believe that. With some free time on hand, she has signed up for theatre workshops with Quasar Padamsee - Dolly and Alyque Padamsee’s son. “I thought it would help me improve my acting skills,” she shares.
“I understand reality shows are the flavour of the season, and Bigg Boss got me the kind of publicity that nothing else did. But you have to have limits to how far you can go to get what you want. This swayamvar on television looks like a very desperate bid to get money and fame,” says Payal. “The next reality show on TV will be what? A honeymoon or a child’s delivery?” she asks, apparently disgusted at the thought, and then adds, “I wouldn’t want to jeopardise my career by being part of something like this.”
That, of course, doesn’t mean that Payal has had enough of reality TV. She almost agreed to do another reality show - one being made on the backdrop of a village - but backed out later. And she’s now training her sight on Bollywood. “I know television is a strong medium today but I want to grow as a film actor,” she says. “Also, doing TV is very strenuous. It takes a toll on you. I did one show in 2008 (Bigg Boss Season 2) and spent the whole of 2009 recouping from it,” she laughs. “On the other hand, movies have their own pace and time, you know, they have more substantive roles to offer to an actor.”
And the movie she will be giving her time to requires her to get into the shoes of a television journalist. Payal doesn’t want to say too much too soon and would rather wait for the movie to go on the floor before talking about it, but she does tell us that the film is being made around 26/11 and shows “how journalists need to control their emotions even at such precarious times and yet work to secure TRPs for their channels.”
And while she doesn’t feel she needs to do too much homework - having seen enough TV journalists in her life - for this role, she does take acting seriously. And there’s reason to believe that. With some free time on hand, she has signed up for theatre workshops with Quasar Padamsee - Dolly and Alyque Padamsee’s son. “I thought it would help me improve my acting skills,” she shares.
Shahid saves Anushka
Shahid Kapoor averted a major mishap on the sets of Badmaash Company when a chandelier crashed inches away from co-star Anushka Sharma
Chandeliers have been a regular prop in Bollywood. People have periodically swung off them or the really ornate ones are used as embellishments to add to the already opulent décor. Anushka Sharma will always remember the prop with a shudder. On Sunday evening, Anushkha, who was shooting a music video for Parmeet Sethi’s Badmaash Company, escaped a chandelier catastrophe at MT Studio in Andheri (East).
Shahid and Anushka, under the supervision of choreographer Ahmed Khan, were moving towards a pre-decided spot almost underneath a huge chandelier. To everyone’s shock, the chandelier suddenly came crashing to the ground. It would have gravely injured Anushka if it hadn’t been for Shahid’s quick reflexes - he managed to push the utterly petrified Anushka out of harm’s way.
Said choreographer Ahmed Khan, “Sasha (Shahid) didn’t push Anushka away. He pulled her towards himself just in time. Actually, it was partly my fault. My instructions went a little awry. Anything could have happened. I hope we finish the song without any more problems. This is the third mishap on the sets.”
For her part, Anushka said, “Shahid reacted very quickly. Luckily no one was injured.”
But the real-life hero played down the incident. “It was nothing major,” said Shahid.
Incidentally, this is the second time within a year that Shahid has come to his leading lady’s rescue. During the shoot of Vishal Bhardwaj’s Kaminey, Priyanka Chopra was driving a scooter with Shahid as the pillion rider when she lost her balance and fell. She could have sustained a major face injury if Shahid had not buffered the fall with his hands.
“It’s what anyone would have done, given the situation,” said Shahid.
Chandeliers have been a regular prop in Bollywood. People have periodically swung off them or the really ornate ones are used as embellishments to add to the already opulent décor. Anushka Sharma will always remember the prop with a shudder. On Sunday evening, Anushkha, who was shooting a music video for Parmeet Sethi’s Badmaash Company, escaped a chandelier catastrophe at MT Studio in Andheri (East).
Shahid and Anushka, under the supervision of choreographer Ahmed Khan, were moving towards a pre-decided spot almost underneath a huge chandelier. To everyone’s shock, the chandelier suddenly came crashing to the ground. It would have gravely injured Anushka if it hadn’t been for Shahid’s quick reflexes - he managed to push the utterly petrified Anushka out of harm’s way.
Said choreographer Ahmed Khan, “Sasha (Shahid) didn’t push Anushka away. He pulled her towards himself just in time. Actually, it was partly my fault. My instructions went a little awry. Anything could have happened. I hope we finish the song without any more problems. This is the third mishap on the sets.”
For her part, Anushka said, “Shahid reacted very quickly. Luckily no one was injured.”
But the real-life hero played down the incident. “It was nothing major,” said Shahid.
Incidentally, this is the second time within a year that Shahid has come to his leading lady’s rescue. During the shoot of Vishal Bhardwaj’s Kaminey, Priyanka Chopra was driving a scooter with Shahid as the pillion rider when she lost her balance and fell. She could have sustained a major face injury if Shahid had not buffered the fall with his hands.
“It’s what anyone would have done, given the situation,” said Shahid.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
I’m like a mature 45: Kangna
Five apparently is her lucky number. Or so the curly-haired temptress, Kangna Ranaut has been told by leading numerologists.
She wants to believe that her 23rd birthday (adding up to 5) today will take her several notches up, professionally. She has ten films on hand, and is romancing Hrithik Roshan (Kites), Abhishek Bachchan (Crooked), Ajay Devgn (Once Upon a Time in Mumbai) R Madhavan (Tanu Weds Manu) and Akshaye Khanna (No Problem). But, of course, it isn’t all roses for this mountain beauty who still feels like a little girl lost in Mumbai.
“I’m guessing this will be an extra special birthday,” says Kangna. “Professionally I’m rocking. There’s so much work happening that I barely have time to hear myself think. I want it that way because this is the time for work,” she says, pointing out that the shelf life of Bollywood heroines has shrunk to around six years. “Bollywood plays by its own rules. It is never about your talent here. It is always about which hero is romancing you on screen. I’m super-confident about my talent but if you judge me only by which heroes I’m working with, then you may argue that I’m not even in the race. However, as far as I’m concerned, my career has gained momentum. And, I’m making the niche I need to,” says the National Award winning actress.
But at the same time, Kangna laments she’s got no personal life. “I believe that if one has to have emotional growth then he/she needs a personal life. I’m currently single and not about to mingle. In this mad race for stardom, I sometimes feel I’m missing out on what I would say are life’s essential moments. I’m not in a relationship but the thought is always there at the back of my head. I wonder if lack of a personal life will stunt my growth as a person. But these are fleeting thoughts. As I hop from studio to studio, my love life is put on the back-burner,” she says.
The actress admits that she may be 23 but in her head, she’s as mature as a 45-year-old. And as she reflects on her life today, she realises that her goal for the moment may be superstardom. But she sometimes fears she is chasing a hollow dream. “If I want to be actually enlightened, like I do, I need to set a larger goal for myself. I want to turn director someday, I need to make place for a permanent relationship. I need to look for the rainbow. Perhaps these are the things that will complete me. Who knows? But I’m looking.”
She wants to believe that her 23rd birthday (adding up to 5) today will take her several notches up, professionally. She has ten films on hand, and is romancing Hrithik Roshan (Kites), Abhishek Bachchan (Crooked), Ajay Devgn (Once Upon a Time in Mumbai) R Madhavan (Tanu Weds Manu) and Akshaye Khanna (No Problem). But, of course, it isn’t all roses for this mountain beauty who still feels like a little girl lost in Mumbai.
“I’m guessing this will be an extra special birthday,” says Kangna. “Professionally I’m rocking. There’s so much work happening that I barely have time to hear myself think. I want it that way because this is the time for work,” she says, pointing out that the shelf life of Bollywood heroines has shrunk to around six years. “Bollywood plays by its own rules. It is never about your talent here. It is always about which hero is romancing you on screen. I’m super-confident about my talent but if you judge me only by which heroes I’m working with, then you may argue that I’m not even in the race. However, as far as I’m concerned, my career has gained momentum. And, I’m making the niche I need to,” says the National Award winning actress.
But at the same time, Kangna laments she’s got no personal life. “I believe that if one has to have emotional growth then he/she needs a personal life. I’m currently single and not about to mingle. In this mad race for stardom, I sometimes feel I’m missing out on what I would say are life’s essential moments. I’m not in a relationship but the thought is always there at the back of my head. I wonder if lack of a personal life will stunt my growth as a person. But these are fleeting thoughts. As I hop from studio to studio, my love life is put on the back-burner,” she says.
The actress admits that she may be 23 but in her head, she’s as mature as a 45-year-old. And as she reflects on her life today, she realises that her goal for the moment may be superstardom. But she sometimes fears she is chasing a hollow dream. “If I want to be actually enlightened, like I do, I need to set a larger goal for myself. I want to turn director someday, I need to make place for a permanent relationship. I need to look for the rainbow. Perhaps these are the things that will complete me. Who knows? But I’m looking.”
Is it Sallu or Ranbir for Katrina?
Strong reports suggest that when Salman Khan boarded the flight for Chennai on March 21 to participate in the IPL bid, his steady girl Katrina Kaif accompanied him.
Now there are reports saying that Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina will tour different parts of India to promote their film Rajneeti. In fact the makers are getting added mileage out of this plain and simple promotion tour. That be as it may, Bollywood is neither interested in the cricket or in the Rajneeti politics. What every curious bystander wishes to know is — who is Kat with in her personal life. Is she with Salman her mentor or is she with Ranbir as the gossip mills suggest. Some insiders suggest that this will be a closely contested match and no, it will not be played out in a cricket stadium. Who bowls this maiden over is something one will have to wait and watch. In the meantime the industry is busy hedging their bets on the two Bollywood superstars.
Now there are reports saying that Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina will tour different parts of India to promote their film Rajneeti. In fact the makers are getting added mileage out of this plain and simple promotion tour. That be as it may, Bollywood is neither interested in the cricket or in the Rajneeti politics. What every curious bystander wishes to know is — who is Kat with in her personal life. Is she with Salman her mentor or is she with Ranbir as the gossip mills suggest. Some insiders suggest that this will be a closely contested match and no, it will not be played out in a cricket stadium. Who bowls this maiden over is something one will have to wait and watch. In the meantime the industry is busy hedging their bets on the two Bollywood superstars.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Akshay wants Holi with Ash
Akshay Kumar is apparently sulking with filmmaker Vipul Shah. He wanted very badly to play Holi with his heroine Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in their film Action Replayy.
But despite Vipul’s best efforts, he couldn’t come up with a Holi song that justified Akki and Ash together.
Instead, it was Neha Dhupia who got a chance to colour Ash red in the song. Aishwarya had a rocking time shooting for the Holi song.
Akshay apparently was complaining that he didn’t get to participate in the song that he liked so much, nor did he get a chance to dance with Ash. But this time his complaints fell on deaf ears. Vipul was adamant about not changing his original sequence.
But despite Vipul’s best efforts, he couldn’t come up with a Holi song that justified Akki and Ash together.
Instead, it was Neha Dhupia who got a chance to colour Ash red in the song. Aishwarya had a rocking time shooting for the Holi song.
Akshay apparently was complaining that he didn’t get to participate in the song that he liked so much, nor did he get a chance to dance with Ash. But this time his complaints fell on deaf ears. Vipul was adamant about not changing his original sequence.
I’m rooting for SRK: Kangna
She neither follows sports news, nor has ever watched a T20 game. So, what made Kangna Ranaut go to Eden Gardens to watch SRK’s knights flight Dhoni’s kings?
You were recently spotted at Eden Gardens cheering SRK’s team on against Dhoni’s boys. What prompted you to go to the stadium?
The IPL fever is high and having never seen a T20 game before, I was quite interested in experiencing this myself. The event organisers had invited me to come for the match. I had the evening open. So, I decided to go.
How much of a cricket buff are you? Do you read the sports pages of a paper or rather follow the articles on sportstars that are published in the entertainment sections of newspapers?
Honestly, I’ve never been a sports person. My interests were always more inclined towards the arts — dancing, music, drama. I don’t follow sporting news either. But, I must say the match was very interesting and I found myself praying hard for Shah Rukh’s team, who I am really rooting for.
Do you understand the technicalities of the game? Can you tell between a third man and gulley?
I understand the game broadly and so can follow it. I understand how a batsman gets out, how runs are scored and the eventual goal of the game. But, the finer nuances are not something I’m so familiar with. I did really enjoy the match though I wish Team Kolkata had won!
With stars buying IPL teams, how difficult is the choice of deciding which team to root for?
I’ve not been following the matches per se or taking sides. But, I’m definitely cheering for Team Kolkata at the moment. And they’ve been playing so well this season. It’s early days yet, so fingers crossed!
Are IPLs also increasing the feelings of camps in Bollywood? Isn’t being present on the grounds for a particular star owner of an IPL team also an indication of who you are aligned to?
I have not experienced this really. I would definitely try and attend any event a friend invited me to if I did not have a prior commitment like a shoot or something.
There are matches being played in Himachal Pradesh. Do you plan to go there too? Have you ever played cricket as a child?
I have never played cricket, but I have heard that the Himachal grounds are stunning. I am shooting for six movies that release this year. So, it is an exceptionally busy time. I don’t think I will be able to attend those matches, but I would love to if I was free.
Cricketers today have a very hectic schedule with a lot of travel. Would you be game being in a relationship with someone with such hectic travel schedules? Or would you prefer someone who is more stationed since your own profession requires you to travel a lot and long distance relationships sometimes don’t work?
I don’t think you can choose who you are going to fall in love with. Each relationship has its own great aspects and challenges. So, I will take that as it comes and when it does.
If you are offered to do a film on women’s cricket, would the idea excite you?
I’d be interested in doing any good script with a good director, cast etc. It would really depend on the story. So, if it is a good script, sure why not?.....!!
You were recently spotted at Eden Gardens cheering SRK’s team on against Dhoni’s boys. What prompted you to go to the stadium?
The IPL fever is high and having never seen a T20 game before, I was quite interested in experiencing this myself. The event organisers had invited me to come for the match. I had the evening open. So, I decided to go.
How much of a cricket buff are you? Do you read the sports pages of a paper or rather follow the articles on sportstars that are published in the entertainment sections of newspapers?
Honestly, I’ve never been a sports person. My interests were always more inclined towards the arts — dancing, music, drama. I don’t follow sporting news either. But, I must say the match was very interesting and I found myself praying hard for Shah Rukh’s team, who I am really rooting for.
Do you understand the technicalities of the game? Can you tell between a third man and gulley?
I understand the game broadly and so can follow it. I understand how a batsman gets out, how runs are scored and the eventual goal of the game. But, the finer nuances are not something I’m so familiar with. I did really enjoy the match though I wish Team Kolkata had won!
With stars buying IPL teams, how difficult is the choice of deciding which team to root for?
I’ve not been following the matches per se or taking sides. But, I’m definitely cheering for Team Kolkata at the moment. And they’ve been playing so well this season. It’s early days yet, so fingers crossed!
Are IPLs also increasing the feelings of camps in Bollywood? Isn’t being present on the grounds for a particular star owner of an IPL team also an indication of who you are aligned to?
I have not experienced this really. I would definitely try and attend any event a friend invited me to if I did not have a prior commitment like a shoot or something.
There are matches being played in Himachal Pradesh. Do you plan to go there too? Have you ever played cricket as a child?
I have never played cricket, but I have heard that the Himachal grounds are stunning. I am shooting for six movies that release this year. So, it is an exceptionally busy time. I don’t think I will be able to attend those matches, but I would love to if I was free.
Cricketers today have a very hectic schedule with a lot of travel. Would you be game being in a relationship with someone with such hectic travel schedules? Or would you prefer someone who is more stationed since your own profession requires you to travel a lot and long distance relationships sometimes don’t work?
I don’t think you can choose who you are going to fall in love with. Each relationship has its own great aspects and challenges. So, I will take that as it comes and when it does.
If you are offered to do a film on women’s cricket, would the idea excite you?
I’d be interested in doing any good script with a good director, cast etc. It would really depend on the story. So, if it is a good script, sure why not?.....!!
Friday, March 19, 2010
SYNOPSIS of film trump card releasing on 12th march 2010
haider khan
mansi.JPG)
pankaj.JPG)
pankaj 
pankaj and mansi.JPG)
urvashi chaudhary, mansi and yashicaTrump Card is a Suspense Action Thriller in which people are murdered for a specific cause. Everyone is disillusioned and clueless trying to find who is the killer and for what is he getting the murders done one after another?? Is the motive MONEY?
Rahul, Raj & Veer are their college friends who get 300 Crores each from Rani Yashodhra Devi’s ‘Will’ but there’s a clause which states that if one friend is missing the amount will be divided into two but if 2 are missing then the entire amount of Rs. 900 Crores would go to the only Survivor & if all the 3 are not found then all the amount would be transferred to Mr. Malhotra’s N.G.O. “AKSHAR”.
The Question arises as to why Rani Yashodhra Devi gave such a big chunk of her wealth to these 3 College Friends and not to any one of her relatives. Its quite Strange?
Veer’s friend Ruby wanted to warn them that their life is in danger but before she could spill the beans, she was murdered.
In the end the Mind Boggling mystery is disclosed and the TRUMP CARD is revealed to everyone’s SHOCK…
Rahul, Raj & Veer are their college friends who get 300 Crores each from Rani Yashodhra Devi’s ‘Will’ but there’s a clause which states that if one friend is missing the amount will be divided into two but if 2 are missing then the entire amount of Rs. 900 Crores would go to the only Survivor & if all the 3 are not found then all the amount would be transferred to Mr. Malhotra’s N.G.O. “AKSHAR”.
The Question arises as to why Rani Yashodhra Devi gave such a big chunk of her wealth to these 3 College Friends and not to any one of her relatives. Its quite Strange?
Veer’s friend Ruby wanted to warn them that their life is in danger but before she could spill the beans, she was murdered.
In the end the Mind Boggling mystery is disclosed and the TRUMP CARD is revealed to everyone’s SHOCK…
Smita Thackeray Forum Rally at juhu
sarika
yukta mukhi
hema serdesai
alka yagnik and poonam dhillon
poonam dhillon
alka yagnik
Smita Thackeray
Smita ThackeraySmita Thackeray choose 6th march as Pre Women's Day and to announce her forum.She invited all the relatives,friends and different NGO'S from Maharashtra to participate in this event at juhu.She started walking from Juhu beach to Jamnabai Narsi school ground,juhu with media and ladies from different NGO'S.Her bollywood friend came to wish her all the very best for this new effort.Some of them who came for the event were Poonam Dhillon,Hema Sardesai,Kamini Khanna,Yukta Mukhi,Tanuja Chandra,Sarika and Alka Yagnik.Smita Thackeray told media and guest that she will speak in hindi only as she is Indian and she will not talk in marathi being a from a marathi family.She told the media that her forum will help all the ladies who want help in any situation.Hema Sardesai sang two songs for Women's Day.Smita Thackeray told the ladies in the meeting that they should become brave to solve their problems.
FILMALANI AWARDS
The FILMALANI Awards were announced and presented at a fun filled joyful evening on 7th March 2010 at Mhada, Andheri in a Dance Studio. The Award was Something Special as for the first time in the History of Film Awards, a Star does not take home the award, instead a Fan takes home the Star (i.e, the Award) And the Award - Memento is not a Black Lady or a Golden Lady, but it is a DVD of a latest Hindi Film. So, in a way, a FAN takes home the STARS. The Awards were presented in a small gathering, that cheered up to everything... lete lete... awards le gaye! The arrangement for the audience was Not of a Rock Show (standing), nor of an Pin drop silence (Seated) or nor like a Gentleman (Across the table).. It was relaxing.. lete lete....in the bed! With Drinks and Chips to go by, Enjoy the evening on the Bed (talk, gossip, sms, facebook or you want, you can sleep too)... The Winners of the Filmalani Awards were the Fans, who turned to be Stars collecting the Awards.
POORA PAISA VASOOL (100% ENTERTAINMENT)
Film of the Year: 3 IDIOTS
Best 'THREE' STAR Films: 3 IDIOTS (Aamir, Maddy, Sharman)
Best TRIANGULAR Starrer Films: DEV D (Abhay Deol, Kalki, Mahi)
BEST ACTRESS (in Comedy Role): ARUNDHATI NAG (Paa)
BEST ACTOR (in Comedy Role): JOHNY LEVER (All The Best)
BEST GUEST SURPRISE STAR: SALMAN KHAN (Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani)
BEST STAR APPEARANCE - ITEM SONG of the year: KAREENA KAPOOR (Marjani - Billu)Best CHILDRENS Film of the year: LITTLE ZIZOU
Best THRILLER/HORROR FILM of the Year: 13 B
BEST EK KA DO ROLE: SHAHID KAPOOR (Kaminey), ZARA HATKE
Film of the Year: QUICK GUN MURUGUNWOW...OOH LA LA ... SHE's HOTTT!!!
Babe of the year: RAMBHA (Quick Gun Murugun)
NEW ENTRY ON HINDI SCREEN - FEMALE: SHRUTI HASSAN (Luck), KALKI KOECHLIN (Dev D)
NEW ENTRY ON HINDI SCREEN - MALE : OMI VAIDYA (3 Idiots)
BEST ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE (MALE) : SHARMAN JOSHI & R MADHAVAN (3 Idiots)
BEST ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE (FEMALE): DIVYA DUTTA (Delhi 6)
BEST NEGATIVE ACTOR: RAVI KISSEN (Luck)
BEST MUSIC DIRECTOR OF THE YEAR: AR RAHMAN (Delhi 6), PRITAM (Love Aaj Kal)BEST DEBUTE DIRECTOR OF THE YEAR: PRABHU DEVA (Wanted), RENSIL DSILVA (Kurbaan)
BEST ENTERTAINING ACTOR (FEMALE): RANI MUKHERJEE (Hadippa), PRIYANKA CHOPRA (Rashee)
BEST ENTERTAINING ACTOR (MALE): SALMAN KHAN (Wanted), RANBIR KAPOOR (Wake Up Sid)
BEST ACTOR (FEMALE): VIDYA BALAN (Paa), KAREENA KAPOOR (Kurbaan)
BEST ACTOR (MALE): SHAHID KAPOOR (Kaminey)
OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE OF THE YEAR: AMITHABH BACHCHAN (Paa)
BEST DIRECTOR: RAJKUMAR HIRANI (3 Idiots)
BEST FILM: 3 IDIOTS, PAA, KAMINEY
The celebrities who were there to give away the award were: Stand up comedian Navin Prabhakar (Pehchaan Kaun?), RJ and Director Anirudh Chawla (Balls hai Kya?), Bhojpuri Actor Sunil Upadhyay, Pop Singers Nic n' Nicole, Roadies Winner, Producer Vipul Shah to name a few.
Launch of Rakhi Sawant Beauty Lounge at Lokhandwala,Andheri
Rakhi Sawant
Jonny Lever, Rakhi Sawant & Afzal Kapadia
Rohit Verma & Sidharth Kannan
Rakhi Sawant, Gaurav & Afzal Kapadia
IshQ Bector
Jaya Sawant
Sonu Kakkar
Amar SidhuRakhi Sawant started her first beauty lounge with partner Afzal Kapadia in Lokhandwala,Andheri west.She came in black dress for the launching where she invited all her friends and relatives.Siddarth Kannan and Jaya Sawant were the first to come for the launch of Lounge.She introduced all her products to media and guest.Rakhi Sawant told the media that Botox cream is the highlight at her venue.Other guest who came for the launch were Sonu Kakkar,Amar Sidhu from USA,Jhonny Lever,Ishq Bector,Gaurav,Amit Tandon,Rohit Verma,Sanjay Nirupam.All the best to Rakhi Sawant for her new business.
MF Husain longs for India: Amrita Rao
Amrita Rao is muse- turned-friend for artist Maqbool Fida Husain. In fact, she spoke to him just days before he gave up his Indian citizenship.
But he never discussed the issue with her. Says Amrita, “Our conversations are not really professionally inclined. We discussed art and cinema, and what films he’s watching. He never really told me anything about his citizenship.”
But, Amrita says she’s known him closely enough to understand how he feels. She says, “Because I’ve known him so closely now, because of being his muse since Vivah, I know how strongly he feels for this country and how much he loves it. I know how much he wants to come back.” In fact, she adds, “Whenever I’m there in Dubai and he comes to see me off at the airport, he looks with longing eyes as to when he’ll be able to pass that channel and come to India. That really makes me cringe.” Amrita says that he’s continuously thinking about merging cinema with art, which is his biggest dream. “In fact, he still talks about making movies, and keeps making notes about ideas that he could utilise. At 96 years of age, not many of us could be the best at doing what we did in our prime. I really admire that about him.”
It’s Amrita’s character Poonam from the flick, Vivah, that first enchanted Husain when he decided to paint her. “You know,” she says, “When he painted me, it was as Poonam. Every painting he has done of mine has a full moon, which literally signifies Poonam, which was my name in Vivah, and that is the character that attracted him towards me. So, in every painting of mine that he has done, you will see a full moon in the background.”
And Husain now wants to do another series, depicting Amrita as the quintessential Indian woman, adopting different cultures that India has to offer. Even though Amrita is excited about this series, her favourite work remains the first painting he did of her. She says, “The most precious is the first one that he did. I’d insisted that I wanted him in the painting with me because I had heard that he’s great with self portraits. You can see him painting me in the painting, which is what makes it so special.”
But he never discussed the issue with her. Says Amrita, “Our conversations are not really professionally inclined. We discussed art and cinema, and what films he’s watching. He never really told me anything about his citizenship.”
But, Amrita says she’s known him closely enough to understand how he feels. She says, “Because I’ve known him so closely now, because of being his muse since Vivah, I know how strongly he feels for this country and how much he loves it. I know how much he wants to come back.” In fact, she adds, “Whenever I’m there in Dubai and he comes to see me off at the airport, he looks with longing eyes as to when he’ll be able to pass that channel and come to India. That really makes me cringe.” Amrita says that he’s continuously thinking about merging cinema with art, which is his biggest dream. “In fact, he still talks about making movies, and keeps making notes about ideas that he could utilise. At 96 years of age, not many of us could be the best at doing what we did in our prime. I really admire that about him.”
It’s Amrita’s character Poonam from the flick, Vivah, that first enchanted Husain when he decided to paint her. “You know,” she says, “When he painted me, it was as Poonam. Every painting he has done of mine has a full moon, which literally signifies Poonam, which was my name in Vivah, and that is the character that attracted him towards me. So, in every painting of mine that he has done, you will see a full moon in the background.”
And Husain now wants to do another series, depicting Amrita as the quintessential Indian woman, adopting different cultures that India has to offer. Even though Amrita is excited about this series, her favourite work remains the first painting he did of her. She says, “The most precious is the first one that he did. I’d insisted that I wanted him in the painting with me because I had heard that he’s great with self portraits. You can see him painting me in the painting, which is what makes it so special.”
That’s my girlfriend: Yuvraj
Atta boy Yuvraj! Soon after Team Punjab’s match against Team Bangalore the other day, the Punjabi munda was spotted with his current squeeze, model Aanchal Kumar (who was in a relationship with Anupam Mittal, a wedding portal’s CEO), dancing away at the IPL bash in Bangalore.
So is this serious for Yuvi, who’s been linked with various B’town beauties? For now, the Punjabi bonding between the two looks more than casual, going by the body language. His hands firmly rest on the er ... shapely hips of the model, and he doesn’t leave her side even as he dances the night away.
Looks like the Bollywood connect is firmly to stay for the cricketer with a roving eye. After his long relationship with starlet Kim Sharma broke, Yuvraj has been linked to a bevy of actresses, including Deepika Padukone. Nevertheless, the sultry model – (her only claim to Bollywood fame has been a few-seconds appearance with Abhishek Bachchan in the title song of Bluffmaster) – better keep an eye on her man. For, when she moved away, the compulsive ladies’ man was quickly seen turning his attention to another woman (fan?), while showing off his moves on the dance floor.
For now, she can take heart that Yuvraj has declared her his ‘girlfriend’. When our photographer tried to click the two, Yuvi firmly opposed – ‘Please don’t click us, she’s my girlfriend’. But, wasn’t he seeing Vivek Oberoi’s ex-girlfriend, Grace recently?
Meanwhile, at a private party across town, the winning team’s owner Siddhartha, son of liqour baron Vijay Mallya, was again cozying up with actress Deepika Padukone. Siddhartha had earlier declared Deepika his team’s lucky mascot after their victory against Punjab.
So is this serious for Yuvi, who’s been linked with various B’town beauties? For now, the Punjabi bonding between the two looks more than casual, going by the body language. His hands firmly rest on the er ... shapely hips of the model, and he doesn’t leave her side even as he dances the night away.
Looks like the Bollywood connect is firmly to stay for the cricketer with a roving eye. After his long relationship with starlet Kim Sharma broke, Yuvraj has been linked to a bevy of actresses, including Deepika Padukone. Nevertheless, the sultry model – (her only claim to Bollywood fame has been a few-seconds appearance with Abhishek Bachchan in the title song of Bluffmaster) – better keep an eye on her man. For, when she moved away, the compulsive ladies’ man was quickly seen turning his attention to another woman (fan?), while showing off his moves on the dance floor.
For now, she can take heart that Yuvraj has declared her his ‘girlfriend’. When our photographer tried to click the two, Yuvi firmly opposed – ‘Please don’t click us, she’s my girlfriend’. But, wasn’t he seeing Vivek Oberoi’s ex-girlfriend, Grace recently?
Meanwhile, at a private party across town, the winning team’s owner Siddhartha, son of liqour baron Vijay Mallya, was again cozying up with actress Deepika Padukone. Siddhartha had earlier declared Deepika his team’s lucky mascot after their victory against Punjab.
Katrina drops in on Ranbir
Bechari Katrina Kaif. Wherever she goes, controversy follows. (Or should we say our ‘spies’ follow?). One of our ‘reporters’ allege that they saw Ms Kaif drop by at Film City — on, hold your breath — Ranbir Kapoor’s sets.
And no, they weren’t shooting together. Katz was on the sets of her own film (Farah Khan’s Tees Maar Khan) with Akshay Kumar, and Ranbir was shooting a commercial at the sprawling Film City on another set. But the courteous Ms Kaif dropped in to exchange pleasantries with the heartthrob. And it was all very fine and well-meaning, we thought. Until one of our sources informed that supposedly, Katz wasn’t really required on the sets of her own film at all that day. And that she had simply dropped in to meet Farah ‘just like that’. We hear that the smirk and look on Farah’s face had to be seen to be believed. But we say ‘pah’ to such casual gossip, darlings. Of course, Katz was merely being professional and friendly and all that. Don’t believe us? Let’s ask Ranbir boy.
And no, they weren’t shooting together. Katz was on the sets of her own film (Farah Khan’s Tees Maar Khan) with Akshay Kumar, and Ranbir was shooting a commercial at the sprawling Film City on another set. But the courteous Ms Kaif dropped in to exchange pleasantries with the heartthrob. And it was all very fine and well-meaning, we thought. Until one of our sources informed that supposedly, Katz wasn’t really required on the sets of her own film at all that day. And that she had simply dropped in to meet Farah ‘just like that’. We hear that the smirk and look on Farah’s face had to be seen to be believed. But we say ‘pah’ to such casual gossip, darlings. Of course, Katz was merely being professional and friendly and all that. Don’t believe us? Let’s ask Ranbir boy.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
I can marry tomorrow: Priyanka
She’s back from the States after a shooting schedule of three months, and even if there is still a bit of jetlag, Piggy Chops isn’t showing any of it. The actress was in Delhi to cheer for the Indian Hockey team, all energy and enthusiasm. “I was very excited to at least try and attend one match,” she said.
And any plans for the IPL? “Not yet, I’m just focussing on hockey. I love cricket as well, I hope to catch some of the matches if I can.” Ask her which team she’d be rooting for, and she says hastily, “Oh, I don’t pick, a lot of my friends are on these teams, so I’m not picking any teams, at all!” Does that mean she’ll be cheering for everyone? “I’ll be cheering for the game.” Clever reply, we have to say. “Every time I watch a game, I’ll say ‘hmmm, so which is the team I’d like to pick today?’” So what will help her decide, which team has cuter guys, maybe? “Errr.... umm... well as a single girl I could say yeah.” Hold it, did she say single? “Yeah, definitely, you can hold me up to that,” she laughs, “But no, I always go with the stronger side baba, I like to play it safe! I like to be on the winning side, always.” Would Priyanka perform at any of the matches, or post match ceremonies? “Not yet, but it would be fun I think, to do it,” she says.
She was recently in the news for being contractually forbidden by producer Sajid Nadidwala to tweet about her next with Ranbir Kapoor, Anjaana Anjaani; what does she have to say about that? “Actually, that’s not happened, and I don’t know where that one’s come from. Because if you see any of my tweets, I never speak about my film, only about my experiences. The contract hasn’t happened, I’ve only read about it myself,” says PC.
Speaking of Twitter, and she’s pretty active on it herself, what does she think of the whole ‘living online’ phenomenon? “Well, I think there’s always those phases of everything, you know. And it’s such a fast world at the moment, that people really don’t have time for other people. And this is a way of being in touch. It’s made the world a smaller place for sure; speaking to friends and family abroad, they know what I’m doing in my life. So, in that way, I think it’s a great thing to have happened. But yes, the actual touch and feel of real people, the mystique of not knowing, you miss out on all those things.”
But hasn’t that also reduced the charm of stardom, that quality of being removed from the real world... Earlier, there used to be this aura and mystery surrounding a star, fans would wait for hours outside a shooting location just to get a tiny glimpse, but now they get live updates right from their living rooms... “But I don’t think that has anything to do with Twitter, or Facebook, or being online,” Priyanka chips in, “I think that’s an era which had kind of died off a few years ago. I think it’s because of the fact that stars are a lot more available, like I’m talking to you in an interview right now because I’m in Delhi, or I’ll be doing five commercials – I’m in your bedroom.”
Actors earlier wouldn’t do all that, it was just about a film. It was never really about a brand, it was never being associated with so many other things, doing IPL and TV and brand endorsements, conferences and conclaves... today, an actor is an active part of many, many things – a celebrity. There’s a lot more celebrity to it all, than just being an actor. I think that’s a change that has happened in, I think, not just Indian actors, actually, but actors abroad as well.”
But abroad, people know all about stars anyways – the paparazzi culture is much worse... “It’s not really about the paparazzi,” Priyanka opines. “It’s how much the actors are willing to put out about themselves. And today, I think, I would much rather people know me for the human being that I am. After all, I’m a normal person.”
So the whole process of demystifying the star, bringing them closer to people, has that happened for good? “I think that’s a good thing,” she says emphatically. “Because then people know the reality of who I am, rather than the projection of a certain image because of what the media has written, or some rumour they’ve heard. See, I come from a very normal background, I’ve never known films besides what I’ve learnt since I’ve been in them. So for me, my approach to films and cinema is not really that thought out. It’s just how it would be for a normal person – it’s like a job.”
So the old concept of a ‘star’ doesn’t really hold water for her? She explains, “If I were only a movie star, then I think this would be a bad thing, because then there’s no point, you’re losing the mystery and the enigma. But I’m not just a movie star, I’m in your drawing room every single day, you see me 25 times a day in 20 commercials that I do. If you find out I’m doing an event, you just have to drive up there and see me. So you have to move with the times, and I think that is why it works today.”
Coming back to the paparazzi, Bollywood today is much better, compared to Hollywood... “Thank God, yeah!” Priyanka exclaims. But she’d said it depends on how much the actors want to put in front of the paparazzi, does she really think it’s the celeb’s fault, or that the paparazzi is truly intrusive? “It definitely shouldn’t come here. My God, imagine somebody sitting outside my house with a telescope! Not that I have anything to hide, but it’s just your own privacy, and that’s highly intrusive. I think actors also need some downtime. But you do share as much as you want to. I mean, it’s your job to ask the question, it’s my job to see if I want to answer it or not.”
But isn’t it easy now also to create celebrity, generate controversy to be in the news always? She disagrees, “I don’t think it would survive, na. I’d give some credit to the audience’s intelligence, that they really wouldn’t give credibility to that, because it wouldn’t be associated with talent. You might be in the news, because of various other things, but if you’re not talented, you won’t sustain it. After your controversy, then what? Build another one, create another one; I think it’s exhausting.”
In her next film for Vishal Bhardwaj, Priyanka plays a character who murders seven of her husbands. What’s easier, playing the pretty face, the seductress, the siren, or the murderer? “I just don’t like it easy, I think,” comes her quick reply, “The more it challenges me, the more it excites me. I think I like to mix the bag a little bit. I’ve done Kaminey, Dostana, and I’ll be doing Don, and Vishal’s film; I like jumping from one to the other.”
Having being linked with so many of her co-stars, does she want to settle down, set the rumour mills straight? “You know, it’s not really planned. I can’t just say, ‘Okay, I want to get married tomorrow.’ There’s a technical problem – I’ll need to find a guy!” she chuckles. “Whenever I’ve had a plan, God’s said, ‘Uh oh, I’ve something else planned for you!’ I’m single at the moment, and the link-ups, they’re a part of your job. You have a nice conversation with a guy, and they say, ‘Ooh!’ When it’s a tad here and there, it’s fine. But when it’s stretched for a long time, I get very affected. I find it embarrassing that my dad would pick up the paper in the morning; sometimes I hide the paper and stuff! People forget that I’m also a daughter, or my brother might read it.”
We did a little quick Q&A session with PC, And here’s what we got:
Sexiest B’wood actor – Shah Rukh Khan
Favourite co-star – Umm, tough pick, oh my God, I have a lot of favourite co stars. Well... since Shah Rukh Khan’s my favourite actor, I kind of get dumbfounded when I work with him, I still do, so he wins!
Sexiest heroine (you can name yourself if you like) – I’d say besides myself, if I had to pick someone, I think Deepika and Bipasha. Very sexy bodies, very fit, toned, beautiful, besides myself (laughs).
Best actress – Kajol, for sure. Wackiest person, the most fun,
completely crazy – Me, really, I’m definitely the most fun to be with.
Favourite chill out place – My friends’ houses. I’m not a very party person. I’m a Cancerian na, so I’m very homely.
Love to pig out on – Everything. But junk food’s my favourite cuisine. I’m so grateful it doesn’t show!
Favourite outfit – Saree. I wear a lot of dresses because it’s more convenient, but if I was getting the opportunity I would wear sarees everywhere. I wear them to a lot of formal events.
And any plans for the IPL? “Not yet, I’m just focussing on hockey. I love cricket as well, I hope to catch some of the matches if I can.” Ask her which team she’d be rooting for, and she says hastily, “Oh, I don’t pick, a lot of my friends are on these teams, so I’m not picking any teams, at all!” Does that mean she’ll be cheering for everyone? “I’ll be cheering for the game.” Clever reply, we have to say. “Every time I watch a game, I’ll say ‘hmmm, so which is the team I’d like to pick today?’” So what will help her decide, which team has cuter guys, maybe? “Errr.... umm... well as a single girl I could say yeah.” Hold it, did she say single? “Yeah, definitely, you can hold me up to that,” she laughs, “But no, I always go with the stronger side baba, I like to play it safe! I like to be on the winning side, always.” Would Priyanka perform at any of the matches, or post match ceremonies? “Not yet, but it would be fun I think, to do it,” she says.
She was recently in the news for being contractually forbidden by producer Sajid Nadidwala to tweet about her next with Ranbir Kapoor, Anjaana Anjaani; what does she have to say about that? “Actually, that’s not happened, and I don’t know where that one’s come from. Because if you see any of my tweets, I never speak about my film, only about my experiences. The contract hasn’t happened, I’ve only read about it myself,” says PC.
Speaking of Twitter, and she’s pretty active on it herself, what does she think of the whole ‘living online’ phenomenon? “Well, I think there’s always those phases of everything, you know. And it’s such a fast world at the moment, that people really don’t have time for other people. And this is a way of being in touch. It’s made the world a smaller place for sure; speaking to friends and family abroad, they know what I’m doing in my life. So, in that way, I think it’s a great thing to have happened. But yes, the actual touch and feel of real people, the mystique of not knowing, you miss out on all those things.”
But hasn’t that also reduced the charm of stardom, that quality of being removed from the real world... Earlier, there used to be this aura and mystery surrounding a star, fans would wait for hours outside a shooting location just to get a tiny glimpse, but now they get live updates right from their living rooms... “But I don’t think that has anything to do with Twitter, or Facebook, or being online,” Priyanka chips in, “I think that’s an era which had kind of died off a few years ago. I think it’s because of the fact that stars are a lot more available, like I’m talking to you in an interview right now because I’m in Delhi, or I’ll be doing five commercials – I’m in your bedroom.”
Actors earlier wouldn’t do all that, it was just about a film. It was never really about a brand, it was never being associated with so many other things, doing IPL and TV and brand endorsements, conferences and conclaves... today, an actor is an active part of many, many things – a celebrity. There’s a lot more celebrity to it all, than just being an actor. I think that’s a change that has happened in, I think, not just Indian actors, actually, but actors abroad as well.”
But abroad, people know all about stars anyways – the paparazzi culture is much worse... “It’s not really about the paparazzi,” Priyanka opines. “It’s how much the actors are willing to put out about themselves. And today, I think, I would much rather people know me for the human being that I am. After all, I’m a normal person.”
So the whole process of demystifying the star, bringing them closer to people, has that happened for good? “I think that’s a good thing,” she says emphatically. “Because then people know the reality of who I am, rather than the projection of a certain image because of what the media has written, or some rumour they’ve heard. See, I come from a very normal background, I’ve never known films besides what I’ve learnt since I’ve been in them. So for me, my approach to films and cinema is not really that thought out. It’s just how it would be for a normal person – it’s like a job.”
So the old concept of a ‘star’ doesn’t really hold water for her? She explains, “If I were only a movie star, then I think this would be a bad thing, because then there’s no point, you’re losing the mystery and the enigma. But I’m not just a movie star, I’m in your drawing room every single day, you see me 25 times a day in 20 commercials that I do. If you find out I’m doing an event, you just have to drive up there and see me. So you have to move with the times, and I think that is why it works today.”
Coming back to the paparazzi, Bollywood today is much better, compared to Hollywood... “Thank God, yeah!” Priyanka exclaims. But she’d said it depends on how much the actors want to put in front of the paparazzi, does she really think it’s the celeb’s fault, or that the paparazzi is truly intrusive? “It definitely shouldn’t come here. My God, imagine somebody sitting outside my house with a telescope! Not that I have anything to hide, but it’s just your own privacy, and that’s highly intrusive. I think actors also need some downtime. But you do share as much as you want to. I mean, it’s your job to ask the question, it’s my job to see if I want to answer it or not.”
But isn’t it easy now also to create celebrity, generate controversy to be in the news always? She disagrees, “I don’t think it would survive, na. I’d give some credit to the audience’s intelligence, that they really wouldn’t give credibility to that, because it wouldn’t be associated with talent. You might be in the news, because of various other things, but if you’re not talented, you won’t sustain it. After your controversy, then what? Build another one, create another one; I think it’s exhausting.”
In her next film for Vishal Bhardwaj, Priyanka plays a character who murders seven of her husbands. What’s easier, playing the pretty face, the seductress, the siren, or the murderer? “I just don’t like it easy, I think,” comes her quick reply, “The more it challenges me, the more it excites me. I think I like to mix the bag a little bit. I’ve done Kaminey, Dostana, and I’ll be doing Don, and Vishal’s film; I like jumping from one to the other.”
Having being linked with so many of her co-stars, does she want to settle down, set the rumour mills straight? “You know, it’s not really planned. I can’t just say, ‘Okay, I want to get married tomorrow.’ There’s a technical problem – I’ll need to find a guy!” she chuckles. “Whenever I’ve had a plan, God’s said, ‘Uh oh, I’ve something else planned for you!’ I’m single at the moment, and the link-ups, they’re a part of your job. You have a nice conversation with a guy, and they say, ‘Ooh!’ When it’s a tad here and there, it’s fine. But when it’s stretched for a long time, I get very affected. I find it embarrassing that my dad would pick up the paper in the morning; sometimes I hide the paper and stuff! People forget that I’m also a daughter, or my brother might read it.”
We did a little quick Q&A session with PC, And here’s what we got:
Sexiest B’wood actor – Shah Rukh Khan
Favourite co-star – Umm, tough pick, oh my God, I have a lot of favourite co stars. Well... since Shah Rukh Khan’s my favourite actor, I kind of get dumbfounded when I work with him, I still do, so he wins!
Sexiest heroine (you can name yourself if you like) – I’d say besides myself, if I had to pick someone, I think Deepika and Bipasha. Very sexy bodies, very fit, toned, beautiful, besides myself (laughs).
Best actress – Kajol, for sure. Wackiest person, the most fun,
completely crazy – Me, really, I’m definitely the most fun to be with.
Favourite chill out place – My friends’ houses. I’m not a very party person. I’m a Cancerian na, so I’m very homely.
Love to pig out on – Everything. But junk food’s my favourite cuisine. I’m so grateful it doesn’t show!
Favourite outfit – Saree. I wear a lot of dresses because it’s more convenient, but if I was getting the opportunity I would wear sarees everywhere. I wear them to a lot of formal events.
Who's that girl, Aamir?
It was quite a sight for Bandra-ites to see Aamir Khan zipping around on a bike with a very happy young lady riding pillion. And wife Kiran Rao, seemed more than happy to see them go.
The actor, who celebrated his 45th birthday on March 14, was just staying true to his resolution of spending more time with his family. While he's more often seen with his son Junaid, this time Aamir’s daughter Ira got a zippy treat from her dad while on the way back home after watching a special screening of the Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief.
Aamir had booked a preview theatre in Bandra for Junaid and Ira and was accompanied by Kiran and some close friends. There’s word that Kiran, an avid painter, gifted Aamir a painting she had made of Aamir and herself.
The actor, who celebrated his 45th birthday on March 14, was just staying true to his resolution of spending more time with his family. While he's more often seen with his son Junaid, this time Aamir’s daughter Ira got a zippy treat from her dad while on the way back home after watching a special screening of the Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief.
Aamir had booked a preview theatre in Bandra for Junaid and Ira and was accompanied by Kiran and some close friends. There’s word that Kiran, an avid painter, gifted Aamir a painting she had made of Aamir and herself.
Bhagat Singh's kin sue Kings XI
Team Punjab, it seems, is not having a very good publicity run.
The IPL season I saw a showdown between the Mohali police and Ness Wadia over smoking in the stands, Season II was all about the Slapgate between Harbhajan Singh and S Sreesanth, and now, they are in the news for an ad featuring their team in a Chandigarh newspaper.
The advertisement, which appeared on March 13, read, “The stadium was silent. Chandrashekhar Azad, Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru had just walked into the stands. Are you the wildest Kings XI fan in the stadium? Then you are fan of the match...” This ad led to some NGOs moving court, and also some protest demonstrations in and around the stadium. Now, Bhagat Singh’s grandson, Abhey Singh Sandhu, has submitted a written complaint to the Mohali police, and has also filed a suit in court in Chandigarh, which is set for a hearing today.
We spoke to Team Punjab chairperson, Preity Zinta. “It was not our intention to hurt anybody’s sentiments. I have been informed that the recent ad has hurt some people’s sentiments, which was not what we wanted. I have the utmost respect for leaders of past who made sacrifices for the country. We apologise to the people. The advertisement will be recalled with immediate effect.”
Team senior vice president (operations) Col (retd) Arvinder Singh said, “We have already apologised and we will do it again. I am meeting the senior police officers in this connection. It will be premature to say anything else as some people have taken legal recourse. The ad has been withdrawn and we are hopeful that the matter will be resolved soon.” Talking about Sandhu’s and Global Human Rights Commission lawyer Arvind Thakur’s complaint, Mohali SSP GPS Bhullar said, “I have marked an inquiry into the matter.” SP (detective) Varinder Pal Singh, who’s conducting the probe, said, “I have summoned team management and have asked them to join the probe. We have also recorded some statements.”
Thakur said, “This amounts to hurting the feelings of millions of Indians. How can someone use the names of freedom fighters for commercial gain? We have made Ness Wadia and Preity Zinta parties in this issue.” Wadia and co-owner Mohit Burman refused to comment.
The IPL season I saw a showdown between the Mohali police and Ness Wadia over smoking in the stands, Season II was all about the Slapgate between Harbhajan Singh and S Sreesanth, and now, they are in the news for an ad featuring their team in a Chandigarh newspaper.
The advertisement, which appeared on March 13, read, “The stadium was silent. Chandrashekhar Azad, Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru had just walked into the stands. Are you the wildest Kings XI fan in the stadium? Then you are fan of the match...” This ad led to some NGOs moving court, and also some protest demonstrations in and around the stadium. Now, Bhagat Singh’s grandson, Abhey Singh Sandhu, has submitted a written complaint to the Mohali police, and has also filed a suit in court in Chandigarh, which is set for a hearing today.
We spoke to Team Punjab chairperson, Preity Zinta. “It was not our intention to hurt anybody’s sentiments. I have been informed that the recent ad has hurt some people’s sentiments, which was not what we wanted. I have the utmost respect for leaders of past who made sacrifices for the country. We apologise to the people. The advertisement will be recalled with immediate effect.”
Team senior vice president (operations) Col (retd) Arvinder Singh said, “We have already apologised and we will do it again. I am meeting the senior police officers in this connection. It will be premature to say anything else as some people have taken legal recourse. The ad has been withdrawn and we are hopeful that the matter will be resolved soon.” Talking about Sandhu’s and Global Human Rights Commission lawyer Arvind Thakur’s complaint, Mohali SSP GPS Bhullar said, “I have marked an inquiry into the matter.” SP (detective) Varinder Pal Singh, who’s conducting the probe, said, “I have summoned team management and have asked them to join the probe. We have also recorded some statements.”
Thakur said, “This amounts to hurting the feelings of millions of Indians. How can someone use the names of freedom fighters for commercial gain? We have made Ness Wadia and Preity Zinta parties in this issue.” Wadia and co-owner Mohit Burman refused to comment.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Vivek lost first love at 18
Actor Vivek Oberoi says he lost his childhood sweetheart to cancer when he was 18.
"When I was just 18, I lost my first love. My childhood sweetheart since the age of 13 died of cancer," he wrote on his Twitter page.
The actor, who is the brand ambassador of Cancer Patients Aid Association (CPAA), says by helping those who cannot afford treatments he feels he's honouring his late girlfriend.
"Every time I help CPAA, spend time with the patients going to the hospitals on Rose Day or celebrate my b'day with terminally ill children, I feel I am honouring her memory," he added.
"I was devastated when I lost her, but by helping save the ones who can't afford the treatment and medicines, I feel she's alive in their smiles.
"My mother taught me - the best way to honour the memory of someone you've loved and lost is to reach out and ease someone else's pain and misfortune," wrote the actor who is associated with the CPAA for eight years.
The actor is now looking forward to the release of "Prince", which is his first solo hero movie in five years.
"When I was just 18, I lost my first love. My childhood sweetheart since the age of 13 died of cancer," he wrote on his Twitter page.
The actor, who is the brand ambassador of Cancer Patients Aid Association (CPAA), says by helping those who cannot afford treatments he feels he's honouring his late girlfriend.
"Every time I help CPAA, spend time with the patients going to the hospitals on Rose Day or celebrate my b'day with terminally ill children, I feel I am honouring her memory," he added.
"I was devastated when I lost her, but by helping save the ones who can't afford the treatment and medicines, I feel she's alive in their smiles.
"My mother taught me - the best way to honour the memory of someone you've loved and lost is to reach out and ease someone else's pain and misfortune," wrote the actor who is associated with the CPAA for eight years.
The actor is now looking forward to the release of "Prince", which is his first solo hero movie in five years.
Abhi gets Kela award
Abhishek Bachchan is a happy man after having won at least one award for his work in Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra’s Delhi 6, even if it was for the worst accent.
The actor was declared the winner of the Dara Singh Award for worst accent at the Golden Kela awards, a spin-off on Hollywood’s Razzies, recognising the worst in cinema.
AB’s baby is possibly the first and only star who has acknowledged his Kela win. “Another milestone in my career. I won the Golden Kela award for worst accent in Delhi 6. Chalo at least Delhi 6 won something. I’m overjoyed!” tweeted Abhishek.
The actor was declared the winner of the Dara Singh Award for worst accent at the Golden Kela awards, a spin-off on Hollywood’s Razzies, recognising the worst in cinema.
AB’s baby is possibly the first and only star who has acknowledged his Kela win. “Another milestone in my career. I won the Golden Kela award for worst accent in Delhi 6. Chalo at least Delhi 6 won something. I’m overjoyed!” tweeted Abhishek.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Ranbir's with SRK on Sena
Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor praised superstar Shah Rukh Khan for standing up against Shiv Sena during the controversy surrounding the release of 'My Name Is Khan', saying that the bullying of artistes by political groups needs to stop.
Shiv Sena had demanded that the superstar apologise for his remarks favouring inclusion of Pakistani players in IPL and threatened to halt 'MNIK's release.
"I think Shah Rukh was absolutely right, he did not bow down to anyone. He was not wrong in his belief and did not apologise to anyone. I would like to believe that I would have stood up against the Thackerays if something like that would have happened to me," said Ranbir, who was a speaker at the India Today Conclave here.
The young actor had faced a similar situation with MNS and Raj Thackeray during the release of his film 'Wake Up Sid' for using the word 'Bombay' instead of 'Mumbai' in the movie.
"We used the word 'Bombay' in the film and the MNS party opposed that. But the film is fiction and this is a part of somebody's vision. I so many times say Bombay and not Mumbai and because I've grown up with the word," he said adding that the the arm-twisting of artistes should stop.
"Yes, it is bullying, it is something that has to stop. I don't know how to stop it as there is a lot of power that is involved and I am too small to stand up against such power," Ranbir added.
Shiv Sena had demanded that the superstar apologise for his remarks favouring inclusion of Pakistani players in IPL and threatened to halt 'MNIK's release.
"I think Shah Rukh was absolutely right, he did not bow down to anyone. He was not wrong in his belief and did not apologise to anyone. I would like to believe that I would have stood up against the Thackerays if something like that would have happened to me," said Ranbir, who was a speaker at the India Today Conclave here.
The young actor had faced a similar situation with MNS and Raj Thackeray during the release of his film 'Wake Up Sid' for using the word 'Bombay' instead of 'Mumbai' in the movie.
"We used the word 'Bombay' in the film and the MNS party opposed that. But the film is fiction and this is a part of somebody's vision. I so many times say Bombay and not Mumbai and because I've grown up with the word," he said adding that the the arm-twisting of artistes should stop.
"Yes, it is bullying, it is something that has to stop. I don't know how to stop it as there is a lot of power that is involved and I am too small to stand up against such power," Ranbir added.
Dimpy, Rahul will break up: Rakhi
For someone who wanted to choose her husband through a swayamwar on TV, Rakhi Sawant seems unusually perturbed at Rahul Mahajan’s wedding.
Poll vault: “How can one marry by choosing his or her soul mate through a public voting system?” wonders Sawant, probably harking back to her own short-lived engagement with Elesh Parujanwala, chosen via public votes in the last season of the same TV series that Rahul participated in.
Dimpy dumped? “Dimpy bali ka bakra ban gayi hai. There is a huge age difference between Rahul and Dimpy. I am sure that this will lead to differences between them. Also Rahul’s temperament is very volatile and everyone cannot tolerate that. In fact, Rahul should have thought twice before marrying Dimpy because of these reasons. Very soon, you all get to hear that Rahul aur Dimpy ka separation ho gaya hai,” she says.
Pyaar Impossible! “As I earlier said that it is really difficult to choose a life partner through a public poll. I thought of only getting engaged with Elesh instead of marrying him so that I could get more time to decide. But as time passed, I started feeling that he was not the right person for me. He just wanted to marry me because he wanted be part of my glamorous life. Things got so bad that now I really hate him,” informs Rakhi.
Next pit stop – Parliament: Rakhi might have had done a lot of films but somehow she has failed in proving herself as a serious actress. “I have really worked hard for building my image in the industry and this I have done without having any godfather to promote me. Being a full time actress is not something I aspire to. You never know, one day people will see me in parliament. The benchmarks of success are different for me. I started as an item dancer and today I have turned a businesswoman by launching a beauty salon and by establishing a studio. I am happy with what I am doing,” says Rakhi.
Poll vault: “How can one marry by choosing his or her soul mate through a public voting system?” wonders Sawant, probably harking back to her own short-lived engagement with Elesh Parujanwala, chosen via public votes in the last season of the same TV series that Rahul participated in.
Dimpy dumped? “Dimpy bali ka bakra ban gayi hai. There is a huge age difference between Rahul and Dimpy. I am sure that this will lead to differences between them. Also Rahul’s temperament is very volatile and everyone cannot tolerate that. In fact, Rahul should have thought twice before marrying Dimpy because of these reasons. Very soon, you all get to hear that Rahul aur Dimpy ka separation ho gaya hai,” she says.
Pyaar Impossible! “As I earlier said that it is really difficult to choose a life partner through a public poll. I thought of only getting engaged with Elesh instead of marrying him so that I could get more time to decide. But as time passed, I started feeling that he was not the right person for me. He just wanted to marry me because he wanted be part of my glamorous life. Things got so bad that now I really hate him,” informs Rakhi.
Next pit stop – Parliament: Rakhi might have had done a lot of films but somehow she has failed in proving herself as a serious actress. “I have really worked hard for building my image in the industry and this I have done without having any godfather to promote me. Being a full time actress is not something I aspire to. You never know, one day people will see me in parliament. The benchmarks of success are different for me. I started as an item dancer and today I have turned a businesswoman by launching a beauty salon and by establishing a studio. I am happy with what I am doing,” says Rakhi.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Sushmita bonding with her ex
Can lovers remain friends after breaking up? Apparently, it's possible. Sushmita Sen and her ex-love, ad filmmaker Manav Menon, are bonding again. Sushmita and Manav have been spotted together at various places in Mumbai recently.
A few days ago, Sushmita and Manav were seen at a suburban restaurant in Khar. An eyewitness said, “Both looked very comfortable in each other's company. They were discussing something very animatedly.”
Incompatibility had forced Sushmita and Manav to part ways in early 2007. But clearly, the situation has changed since then. Post Manav, Sushmita was dating Mudassar Aziz who directed Dulha Mil Gaya starring Fardeen Khan and Shah Rukh Khan (in a cameo), besides Sushmita herself.
Sushmita, who has been very frank about all her relationships whether it was Vikram Bhatt, Sanjay Narang, Randeep Hooda, Manav Menon or Mudassar Aziz, said, “I always try to remain friends. Sometimes I succeed. But I am very single. If I wasn't, you would not have to figure it out.”
A few days ago, Sushmita and Manav were seen at a suburban restaurant in Khar. An eyewitness said, “Both looked very comfortable in each other's company. They were discussing something very animatedly.”
Incompatibility had forced Sushmita and Manav to part ways in early 2007. But clearly, the situation has changed since then. Post Manav, Sushmita was dating Mudassar Aziz who directed Dulha Mil Gaya starring Fardeen Khan and Shah Rukh Khan (in a cameo), besides Sushmita herself.
Sushmita, who has been very frank about all her relationships whether it was Vikram Bhatt, Sanjay Narang, Randeep Hooda, Manav Menon or Mudassar Aziz, said, “I always try to remain friends. Sometimes I succeed. But I am very single. If I wasn't, you would not have to figure it out.”
Yuvraj is valuable: Preity
Preity Zinta, co-owner of the Indian Premier League (IPL) team Kings XI Punjab, Thursday said her team has "strong will" and "enough fire" to win the third edition of the T-20 tournament that begins Friday.
"We have a very talented side and we have strong will to go and win the tournament," Preity said here. "Last time we had seven injured players which no one could help. I believe an IPL team is judged by the strength of strong domestic players and not the international players. We have three-four new domestic players and I hope they will strengthen the base," she added.
Preity was here to participate in a health event organised by UNAIDS. Yuvraj Singh led Preity's team in first two editions of IPL matches but this time Sri Lankan all-rounder Kumar Sangakkara is set to lead Kings XI Punjab. Asked about the change in captaincy, she said: "Many IPL teams are re-shuffling in batting, bowling and other departments. Sangakkara is a talented man (to lead the team). But Yuvraj is our most valuable player. In our team, I want to say, there is no place for 'I'. It's 'we'. We as a team will win or lose."
Commenting on important bowler Brett Lee's injury, Preity said: "He is recovering." She, however, said that they are keeping their fingers crossed and "praying" for a great show in the tournament.
"We have a very talented side and we have strong will to go and win the tournament," Preity said here. "Last time we had seven injured players which no one could help. I believe an IPL team is judged by the strength of strong domestic players and not the international players. We have three-four new domestic players and I hope they will strengthen the base," she added.
Preity was here to participate in a health event organised by UNAIDS. Yuvraj Singh led Preity's team in first two editions of IPL matches but this time Sri Lankan all-rounder Kumar Sangakkara is set to lead Kings XI Punjab. Asked about the change in captaincy, she said: "Many IPL teams are re-shuffling in batting, bowling and other departments. Sangakkara is a talented man (to lead the team). But Yuvraj is our most valuable player. In our team, I want to say, there is no place for 'I'. It's 'we'. We as a team will win or lose."
Commenting on important bowler Brett Lee's injury, Preity said: "He is recovering." She, however, said that they are keeping their fingers crossed and "praying" for a great show in the tournament.
Aamir on a break till 2012
When it comes to planning a filmi career, no one knows it better than Aamir Khan.
Many of our B-town beauties would hit the panic button if they didn’t have atleast one movie in hand, and even sign up for mediocre projects in desperation (no faults of theirs, blame it on the rat-race). But this Khan man has a strange way of planning his career. Well, call him an idiot if you please, we think he’d love that too. After enjoying one of the biggest successes of Indian cinema, Aamir has pulled the brakes on his career. Currently he is only focussed on his wife’s directorial debut, Dhobhi Ghat, and his next production Peepli Live. Soon after that all his attention will be on nephew, Imran’s Delhi Belly. So dearies, chances are that we won’t be seeing AK in a full-fledged role till 2012. Hmmm... suddenly ‘all izz not well’ with your fans, AK. C’mon, you can’t do this to them, yaar.
Many of our B-town beauties would hit the panic button if they didn’t have atleast one movie in hand, and even sign up for mediocre projects in desperation (no faults of theirs, blame it on the rat-race). But this Khan man has a strange way of planning his career. Well, call him an idiot if you please, we think he’d love that too. After enjoying one of the biggest successes of Indian cinema, Aamir has pulled the brakes on his career. Currently he is only focussed on his wife’s directorial debut, Dhobhi Ghat, and his next production Peepli Live. Soon after that all his attention will be on nephew, Imran’s Delhi Belly. So dearies, chances are that we won’t be seeing AK in a full-fledged role till 2012. Hmmm... suddenly ‘all izz not well’ with your fans, AK. C’mon, you can’t do this to them, yaar.
Sajid bans Ranbir, Priyanka’s tweets
Sajid Nadiadwala is the first film producer to actually take the much-needed step against stars putting up information about under-production films on social networking websites.
This especially applies to one microblogging site, which according to one producer, is the “souten of all confidentiality clauses in film contracts.”
While other producers and directors have only been talking about it, Sajid Nadiadwala has belled the cat. He has contractually forbidden his cast and crew from going on any social networking site to write about his new film Anjaana Anjaani.
This critical decision had to be taken after Nadiadwala saw a constant inflow of pictures and information being put up on the said site. Priyanka Chopra and Ranbir Kapoor are both on the site. The former is especially active on the network.
Sajid had a closed-door meeting with his director and decided enough was enough.
Says Sajid, “I actually took the decision to forbid my cast and crew from putting any information on websites after an incident that happened with Sajid Khan, my director of Housefull. We were doing a photo-session with the film’s stars. We weren’t even finished and Sajid Khan had already put one of the pictures on the site. I was horrified. That’s when I decided it was time to make the confidentiality clause a legal issue in all my contracts.”
Sajid Nadiadwala laments the lack of privacy among stars today. “I remember when my father produced JP Dutta’s Ghulami, we’d stand outside Dharmendra’s van for hours waiting for him to emerge so we could see what he wore, how he styled his hair, what watch he had on, etc. Today the stars volunteer all this information on the social networks even before the director takes his first shot. I think all of us need to make confidentiality compulsory for every film."
Sajid says the internet syndrome started to affect him during Kambakkht Ishq. “But then it wasn’t so bad because the fad hadn’t become an epidemic in our film industry. Kareena and Akshay Kumar were not on such sites,” observes Nadiadwala.
Needless to say, Priyanka Chopra’s ceaseless tweeting prompted Nadiadwala to take the decision to forbid his films from being discussed minute-by-minute on the internet.
This especially applies to one microblogging site, which according to one producer, is the “souten of all confidentiality clauses in film contracts.”
While other producers and directors have only been talking about it, Sajid Nadiadwala has belled the cat. He has contractually forbidden his cast and crew from going on any social networking site to write about his new film Anjaana Anjaani.
This critical decision had to be taken after Nadiadwala saw a constant inflow of pictures and information being put up on the said site. Priyanka Chopra and Ranbir Kapoor are both on the site. The former is especially active on the network.
Sajid had a closed-door meeting with his director and decided enough was enough.
Says Sajid, “I actually took the decision to forbid my cast and crew from putting any information on websites after an incident that happened with Sajid Khan, my director of Housefull. We were doing a photo-session with the film’s stars. We weren’t even finished and Sajid Khan had already put one of the pictures on the site. I was horrified. That’s when I decided it was time to make the confidentiality clause a legal issue in all my contracts.”
Sajid Nadiadwala laments the lack of privacy among stars today. “I remember when my father produced JP Dutta’s Ghulami, we’d stand outside Dharmendra’s van for hours waiting for him to emerge so we could see what he wore, how he styled his hair, what watch he had on, etc. Today the stars volunteer all this information on the social networks even before the director takes his first shot. I think all of us need to make confidentiality compulsory for every film."
Sajid says the internet syndrome started to affect him during Kambakkht Ishq. “But then it wasn’t so bad because the fad hadn’t become an epidemic in our film industry. Kareena and Akshay Kumar were not on such sites,” observes Nadiadwala.
Needless to say, Priyanka Chopra’s ceaseless tweeting prompted Nadiadwala to take the decision to forbid his films from being discussed minute-by-minute on the internet.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
I was offered Swayamvar: Bobby
Most actresses wouldn’t mind swapping places with Bobby Darling just for this role. She plays a superwoman in Aditya Dutt’s Will you Marry Me, co-starring Rajeev Khandelwal, Shreyas Talpade and Muzammil Ibrahim.
The film that went on the floors three months ago stars newbies as female leads. But it’s Bobby who gets to seduce the men. “I wear a burgundy wig with a blue body suit. I attract men with my superpowers. We’ll start the next schedule of the film in Bangkok,” reveals Bobby.
She’s also got Apartment, in which she plays Tanushree Dutta’s ‘cute’ neighbour who wants to move in with her, and Club 007, her first Hollywood film, which sees her play a transsexual pole dancer.
With so much happening on the career front, Bobby is delaying her sex change operation. “I’ll do that by the end of next year as I’m getting many offers now. So, I’m on hormones. But when I get my sex changed, I’ll call myself chiclet,” she says.
What’s taking her so long to find the man of her dreams? “Bhagwan shayed mere liye kuch special banaya hai,” she states. Why doesn’t she opt for a telly swayamwar like Rakhi Sawant? “Few know that Swayamwar was first offered to me. But I’ll do another reality show now,” she shares.
The film that went on the floors three months ago stars newbies as female leads. But it’s Bobby who gets to seduce the men. “I wear a burgundy wig with a blue body suit. I attract men with my superpowers. We’ll start the next schedule of the film in Bangkok,” reveals Bobby.
She’s also got Apartment, in which she plays Tanushree Dutta’s ‘cute’ neighbour who wants to move in with her, and Club 007, her first Hollywood film, which sees her play a transsexual pole dancer.
With so much happening on the career front, Bobby is delaying her sex change operation. “I’ll do that by the end of next year as I’m getting many offers now. So, I’m on hormones. But when I get my sex changed, I’ll call myself chiclet,” she says.
What’s taking her so long to find the man of her dreams? “Bhagwan shayed mere liye kuch special banaya hai,” she states. Why doesn’t she opt for a telly swayamwar like Rakhi Sawant? “Few know that Swayamwar was first offered to me. But I’ll do another reality show now,” she shares.
I'm a Shah Rukh fan: Akon
International R&B singer Akon, who is here to record songs for Shah Rukh Khan's film "Ra.One", says he is a big fan of the Bollywood superstar and that he will not only have shows in India during his world tour but would also do more work here soon.
"I am a big fan of Shah Rukh. I am very familiar with Shah Rukh's work. I am meeting Kareena (Kapoor) for the first time today," Akon told reporters in a press conference here Tuesday. He is not only singing but also composing song for "Ra.One". "I am also composing. You know, I will give him (Shah Rukh) a couple of versions of the song, the way I do it. And I will also integrate it with the traditional way the Bollywood films are done. I will give them options and they will decide, which one to use in the film," said Akon.
Produced by "Red Chilies Entertainment", "Ra.One" will see Shah Rukh playing a superhero. Asked if he is planning to do more work with Indian music directors, he said: "You will see me doing more things in India soon." The singer insists he finds African entertainment culture quite similar to what he sees in India. "You know the tradition in Africa is not different from India. There is same type of entertainment going on, the difference is only in language. I always wanted to expand my horizon, explore and enjoy," said Akon who will soon go on a world tour.
He is looking forward to performances in India as well. "The world tour is coming soon and India is one of my biggest market so I will do number of shows here," said Akon.
The singer dedicated two lines from his song "Beautiful" to actress Kareena Kapoor, who was present at the event. She plays female lead in "Ra.One".
"I am a big fan of Shah Rukh. I am very familiar with Shah Rukh's work. I am meeting Kareena (Kapoor) for the first time today," Akon told reporters in a press conference here Tuesday. He is not only singing but also composing song for "Ra.One". "I am also composing. You know, I will give him (Shah Rukh) a couple of versions of the song, the way I do it. And I will also integrate it with the traditional way the Bollywood films are done. I will give them options and they will decide, which one to use in the film," said Akon.
Produced by "Red Chilies Entertainment", "Ra.One" will see Shah Rukh playing a superhero. Asked if he is planning to do more work with Indian music directors, he said: "You will see me doing more things in India soon." The singer insists he finds African entertainment culture quite similar to what he sees in India. "You know the tradition in Africa is not different from India. There is same type of entertainment going on, the difference is only in language. I always wanted to expand my horizon, explore and enjoy," said Akon who will soon go on a world tour.
He is looking forward to performances in India as well. "The world tour is coming soon and India is one of my biggest market so I will do number of shows here," said Akon.
The singer dedicated two lines from his song "Beautiful" to actress Kareena Kapoor, who was present at the event. She plays female lead in "Ra.One".
Hrithik's a good companion: Barbara Mori
She’s being kept under wraps till such time as the full-blown publicity campaign for Rakesh Roshan’s Kites breaks.
But TOI managed a tete-a-tete with Barbara Mori. Yeah, the Mexican girl loves Mumbai and the movies we make.
How are you today?
I am really excited because Kites is the biggest film I have ever done. I never imagined that I would come to Bollywood and be a part of a film made for audience all over the world. Kites will be very important for my career because this is my first international movie. I can´t wait!
One hears that you have performed some daring stunts in the film? Were you scared? Tell us about some of the stunts...
I was not scared at all, because I like danger. I was really very impressed with the action director and with car crashes and explosions. Hrithik is so good at action, I was learning a lot from him. The action director kept dissuading me from doing my stunts because they were dangerous. But I went to Hrithik and told him I can do it. So he said okay and convinced the action director to let me do my own action stunts. We had a lot of fun. It was the best experience of my career!
Are you open to doing more films in Bollywood post Kites?
Of course, I would love to do more movies in Bollywood. It will be a pleasure for me.
Why have you stayed away from Mumbai for so long? Shouldn’t you be here to publicise your film?
I live in Mexico with my son and my family and I have been working so much in my country. Of course I will come to India soon. I’m looking forward to it.
Are you aware of the entire media circus around your teaming up with Hrithik Roshan?
Working with Hrithik was an amazing experience because he is a very good companion and now a very good friend. As co-stars, Hrithik and I got along really well, he gave me the confidence to do a few scenes that I was initially scared of like the underwater swimming scene.
There is also talk of physical intimacy between Hrithik and you in the movie...
I would not like to comment. Please watch the film.
But TOI managed a tete-a-tete with Barbara Mori. Yeah, the Mexican girl loves Mumbai and the movies we make.
How are you today?
I am really excited because Kites is the biggest film I have ever done. I never imagined that I would come to Bollywood and be a part of a film made for audience all over the world. Kites will be very important for my career because this is my first international movie. I can´t wait!
One hears that you have performed some daring stunts in the film? Were you scared? Tell us about some of the stunts...
I was not scared at all, because I like danger. I was really very impressed with the action director and with car crashes and explosions. Hrithik is so good at action, I was learning a lot from him. The action director kept dissuading me from doing my stunts because they were dangerous. But I went to Hrithik and told him I can do it. So he said okay and convinced the action director to let me do my own action stunts. We had a lot of fun. It was the best experience of my career!
Are you open to doing more films in Bollywood post Kites?
Of course, I would love to do more movies in Bollywood. It will be a pleasure for me.
Why have you stayed away from Mumbai for so long? Shouldn’t you be here to publicise your film?
I live in Mexico with my son and my family and I have been working so much in my country. Of course I will come to India soon. I’m looking forward to it.
Are you aware of the entire media circus around your teaming up with Hrithik Roshan?
Working with Hrithik was an amazing experience because he is a very good companion and now a very good friend. As co-stars, Hrithik and I got along really well, he gave me the confidence to do a few scenes that I was initially scared of like the underwater swimming scene.
There is also talk of physical intimacy between Hrithik and you in the movie...
I would not like to comment. Please watch the film.
Akon rocks with SRK for IPL
It’s indeed a treat to see international R&B and hip-hop sensation Akon belt out his chartbusting numbers live, and when Shah Rukh Khan joins him in doing a little jig, it just gets better!
All this and much, much more transpired on Monday night at JW Marriott at Shah Rukh Khan and the man behind XXX, Sachiin Joshi’s IPL bash. Akon was the cherry on the cake, the star performer of the night, and true to his fans, he gave a mind-blowing performance – despite having flown in from the USA barely two hours ago!
It all began when King Khan made a red carpet entry, blowing air-kisses to his fans gathered outside. The temperature got hotter as cricketers Wasim Akram, Sourav Ganguly, Ishant Sharma and Murali Kartik followed in quick succession. And then, at the stroke of midnight, you heard the familiar opening chord of Akon’s iconic number ‘Right Now (Na Na)’.
As girls screamed with hysteria, some jostling to touch the singer, others recording the moment on their cellphones, he rapped to his other popular numbers ‘Smack That’ and ‘I Wanna Love You’. Akon then dedicated ‘Beautiful’ to all the beautiful ladies in the crowd but it was when he began singing his current chartbuster ‘Sexy Bitch’ that the hysteria reached an all-time high. And if you thought it couldn’t get better, then it just did, for SRK joined Akon on stage for a delightful little jig! XXX promised to unleash raw energy, and that’s what Akon’s performance was all about! Electrifying, energetic and exhilarating. Yes, we did Xperience Xtreme Xcitement!
All this and much, much more transpired on Monday night at JW Marriott at Shah Rukh Khan and the man behind XXX, Sachiin Joshi’s IPL bash. Akon was the cherry on the cake, the star performer of the night, and true to his fans, he gave a mind-blowing performance – despite having flown in from the USA barely two hours ago!
It all began when King Khan made a red carpet entry, blowing air-kisses to his fans gathered outside. The temperature got hotter as cricketers Wasim Akram, Sourav Ganguly, Ishant Sharma and Murali Kartik followed in quick succession. And then, at the stroke of midnight, you heard the familiar opening chord of Akon’s iconic number ‘Right Now (Na Na)’.
As girls screamed with hysteria, some jostling to touch the singer, others recording the moment on their cellphones, he rapped to his other popular numbers ‘Smack That’ and ‘I Wanna Love You’. Akon then dedicated ‘Beautiful’ to all the beautiful ladies in the crowd but it was when he began singing his current chartbuster ‘Sexy Bitch’ that the hysteria reached an all-time high. And if you thought it couldn’t get better, then it just did, for SRK joined Akon on stage for a delightful little jig! XXX promised to unleash raw energy, and that’s what Akon’s performance was all about! Electrifying, energetic and exhilarating. Yes, we did Xperience Xtreme Xcitement!
Rani: Lonely in wonderland
Has the fall from stardom resulted in Rani Mukerji becoming a recluse? Sure seems like it as she is no longer the vivacious girl everyone knew and loved.
A source who was earlier close to Rani says, “Rani has stopped communicating with all her friends including Urmila Matondkar, Dia Mirza and Manish Malhotra. She hardly calls them up and at times, she doesn’t even take their calls. Instead, she prefers to spend a lot of time with her niece (Mysha).”
The only person Rani is in touch with from her friend circle is choreographer Vaibhavi Merchant, that too perhaps because she often bumps into Vaibhavi at Yash Raj Films. Vaibhavi regularly works for YRF whose scion Aditya Chopra has been dating Rani for nearly three years.
Why has Rani changed so much? Earlier, she used to attend important social functions particularly hosted by those who mattered to her. But recently, she even skipped Dr RK Agarwal’s daughter’s wedding, and consequently, shocked several of her friends from the industry who expected that she would definitely turn up for the occasion.
“The change in Rani’s behaviour is inexplicable. Her friends want her to be the old Rani again but all she wants is to be left alone. She has become a very, very private person,” adds the source.
Manish said, “I meet Rani. Yes, we haven’t interacted recently but that’s simply because she is shooting in Delhi and I have been busy with my shows and the ongoing fashion week.”
Seems like Aditya Chopra’s reticence has rubbed off on her too. Over to you, Rani.
A source who was earlier close to Rani says, “Rani has stopped communicating with all her friends including Urmila Matondkar, Dia Mirza and Manish Malhotra. She hardly calls them up and at times, she doesn’t even take their calls. Instead, she prefers to spend a lot of time with her niece (Mysha).”
The only person Rani is in touch with from her friend circle is choreographer Vaibhavi Merchant, that too perhaps because she often bumps into Vaibhavi at Yash Raj Films. Vaibhavi regularly works for YRF whose scion Aditya Chopra has been dating Rani for nearly three years.
Why has Rani changed so much? Earlier, she used to attend important social functions particularly hosted by those who mattered to her. But recently, she even skipped Dr RK Agarwal’s daughter’s wedding, and consequently, shocked several of her friends from the industry who expected that she would definitely turn up for the occasion.
“The change in Rani’s behaviour is inexplicable. Her friends want her to be the old Rani again but all she wants is to be left alone. She has become a very, very private person,” adds the source.
Manish said, “I meet Rani. Yes, we haven’t interacted recently but that’s simply because she is shooting in Delhi and I have been busy with my shows and the ongoing fashion week.”
Seems like Aditya Chopra’s reticence has rubbed off on her too. Over to you, Rani.
Remember the time, Shahid?
Everyone knows that Shahid Kapoor is a big star today and charges several crore for a film or endorsement.
However, few people are aware of his extra humble beginnings - he once stayed in a tenement in Andheri’s MHADA colony. Last week Shahid visited a small studio in the same locality and it was quite literally a walk down memory lane for him.
Shahid’s close companion Mamu, who has know his family for decades, was accompanying him when Shahid reached the area. He informed all of the actor’s old friends who live nearby, and they gathered at the studio to meet Shahid. Needless to say, it was an emotional moment for Shahid as well as Mamu.
Said Mamu, “I have known the family and been with them for over 30 years. There was a time when things were very bad and we stayed in the tenement for a brief period in 2000 and 2001 because we had no option. Shahid was learning dance from Shiamak Davar and the financial situation was quite dire. All this was before Shahid got Ishq Vishk and became a star.
Last week when we had gone there and Shahid was inside the studio, a couple of Shahid’s old friends came to know and told me they were keen to meet him, but they weren’t sure if he would be willing to meet them. I said of course he would, and Shahid came out to meet them.”
By this time, a huge crowd had gathered outside and everyone started singing Dhan te nan. Shahid got his pictures clicked with them and chatted with some of his old neighbours.
An emotional Mamu added, “I remember those times - during the rainy season, the roof leaked and I would constantly clean up to keep the place dry so the kids didn’t fall ill. I told Shahid that he has come a long way, ‘bachcha bada ho gaya hai’. When he lived here, no one gave him a second look. Now when we have left, the neighbourhood kids were running after his car. I am very happy for him.”
However, few people are aware of his extra humble beginnings - he once stayed in a tenement in Andheri’s MHADA colony. Last week Shahid visited a small studio in the same locality and it was quite literally a walk down memory lane for him.
Shahid’s close companion Mamu, who has know his family for decades, was accompanying him when Shahid reached the area. He informed all of the actor’s old friends who live nearby, and they gathered at the studio to meet Shahid. Needless to say, it was an emotional moment for Shahid as well as Mamu.
Said Mamu, “I have known the family and been with them for over 30 years. There was a time when things were very bad and we stayed in the tenement for a brief period in 2000 and 2001 because we had no option. Shahid was learning dance from Shiamak Davar and the financial situation was quite dire. All this was before Shahid got Ishq Vishk and became a star.
Last week when we had gone there and Shahid was inside the studio, a couple of Shahid’s old friends came to know and told me they were keen to meet him, but they weren’t sure if he would be willing to meet them. I said of course he would, and Shahid came out to meet them.”
By this time, a huge crowd had gathered outside and everyone started singing Dhan te nan. Shahid got his pictures clicked with them and chatted with some of his old neighbours.
An emotional Mamu added, “I remember those times - during the rainy season, the roof leaked and I would constantly clean up to keep the place dry so the kids didn’t fall ill. I told Shahid that he has come a long way, ‘bachcha bada ho gaya hai’. When he lived here, no one gave him a second look. Now when we have left, the neighbourhood kids were running after his car. I am very happy for him.”
Dimpy gets drunk like Rahul: Nikunj
Having watched Rahul Mahajan on Rahul Dulhaniya Le Jayega, you’ve probably wondered how any self-respecting woman would want to commit to a man who ideally should be committed himself ... to an asylum, preferably. For Rahul doesn’t come with a squeaky clean reputation: he talks to aliens, was allegedly a wife beater and was found in a bathtub, after an alleged drug overdose.
Yet, mysteriously, he seemed like great marriage material to besotted young girls (or they put up a very good act, at any rate). Nikunj Mallik, one of the three finalists, decided to stop looking at him through rose-tinted glasses and is now rather vocal about her dislike. She says, “I feel Dimpy is perfect for Rahul as both have similar habits and lifestyles, which is not very acceptable to me. Though Rahul was quite interested in me, which was quite evident, I realised he’s not the kind of person I’d like to spend my life with.”
A man never changes his spots, darling, so what possessed her to go for someone like Rahul? She says, “For the past two years, there has been no negative publicity about him. When at 35, a man wants to settle down and have a family, that worked for me. He is a nice man, but it’s obvious there is no visible improvement. It was the drinking, smoking and Casanova nature that bothered me.” Was there any drinking and misbehaving? She replies, “Was he drunk in the evenings? You can say that. But even when super drunk, he never misbehaved.”
And the drugs? She pauses and says, “I have not seen him taking drugs, so I would not like to comment on that.”
Cynics would say that it sounds like a case of sour grapes, but she says, “I would’ve appreciated if he’d chosen Harpreet, who is very well behaved as compared to Dimpy. Dimply is an antisocial element, who runs away from her house at every given opportunity, she ran away from the beauty contest. She gets drunk, sloshed and wasted.”
What about the fact that he kept touching women constantly? She says primly, “In our society, hugging and pecking on the cheek is acceptable. I always maintained my dignity and made him stay within his limits. If you let him do that, he will do it.”
So, did Dimply ‘let’ him? Pat comes the reply, “Obviously yes, in fact, she forced him. She attracted him and wanted him to do all that.”
Nikunj’s parents also did not approve of the prospective son-in-law. She says, “They verbally bashed him and said don’t bother my daughter with your behaviour.” After the home visit, Nikunj had hinted to Rahul that the marriage wouldn’t work.
After the show, what future is she looking forward to? She says, “I was there for the marriage, not the publicity. It has come my way wantingly or not wantingly (sic) and I will take up opportunities. I would not want to waste my qualification as a designer.”
Will the marriage last, in her opinion? With great disdain she concludes, “I hope it does. If you would’ve taken a national poll, Dimpy’s percentage of votes would have been few. He’s narrowed down his future as a politician by choosing her as his wife.”
Yet, mysteriously, he seemed like great marriage material to besotted young girls (or they put up a very good act, at any rate). Nikunj Mallik, one of the three finalists, decided to stop looking at him through rose-tinted glasses and is now rather vocal about her dislike. She says, “I feel Dimpy is perfect for Rahul as both have similar habits and lifestyles, which is not very acceptable to me. Though Rahul was quite interested in me, which was quite evident, I realised he’s not the kind of person I’d like to spend my life with.”
A man never changes his spots, darling, so what possessed her to go for someone like Rahul? She says, “For the past two years, there has been no negative publicity about him. When at 35, a man wants to settle down and have a family, that worked for me. He is a nice man, but it’s obvious there is no visible improvement. It was the drinking, smoking and Casanova nature that bothered me.” Was there any drinking and misbehaving? She replies, “Was he drunk in the evenings? You can say that. But even when super drunk, he never misbehaved.”
And the drugs? She pauses and says, “I have not seen him taking drugs, so I would not like to comment on that.”
Cynics would say that it sounds like a case of sour grapes, but she says, “I would’ve appreciated if he’d chosen Harpreet, who is very well behaved as compared to Dimpy. Dimply is an antisocial element, who runs away from her house at every given opportunity, she ran away from the beauty contest. She gets drunk, sloshed and wasted.”
What about the fact that he kept touching women constantly? She says primly, “In our society, hugging and pecking on the cheek is acceptable. I always maintained my dignity and made him stay within his limits. If you let him do that, he will do it.”
So, did Dimply ‘let’ him? Pat comes the reply, “Obviously yes, in fact, she forced him. She attracted him and wanted him to do all that.”
Nikunj’s parents also did not approve of the prospective son-in-law. She says, “They verbally bashed him and said don’t bother my daughter with your behaviour.” After the home visit, Nikunj had hinted to Rahul that the marriage wouldn’t work.
After the show, what future is she looking forward to? She says, “I was there for the marriage, not the publicity. It has come my way wantingly or not wantingly (sic) and I will take up opportunities. I would not want to waste my qualification as a designer.”
Will the marriage last, in her opinion? With great disdain she concludes, “I hope it does. If you would’ve taken a national poll, Dimpy’s percentage of votes would have been few. He’s narrowed down his future as a politician by choosing her as his wife.”
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Racy exit for Saif, Bips
It was supposed to be a starry conclusion to a high profile racing tourney, what with Bollywood stars Saif Ali Khan and Bipasha Basu arriving to give away the awards. All was well in the beginning as a smiling Bipasha and Saif were escorted to the VIP section from where they cheered for the horses.
When time came to reach the enclosure where the awards were to be given away, some youngsters in the crowd were so taken by Bipasha’s presence that some cat-calling started: ‘Bipasha, bidi jalay le!’, ‘Item girl!’
What could have easily been overlooked as harmless attention seeking, not an unusual feature when a Bollywood star is sighted, became an issue. A clearly irritated Bipasha left the venue soon after without giving away any awards. Saif followed her out of the venue and also left.
When contacted, Vivek Jain, the Chairman of the RWITC, said though he was present for the function, he was not aware whether or not Bipasha and Saif were supposed to give away any awards. “But they were there during the ceremony and in fact, I myself gave Bipasha a memento.” When asked why Bipasha and Saif didn’t stay back for the final awards in the paddock as is the norm, Jain said that for this once the ceremony was held on the main track instead of the paddock.
When we finally got through to Bipasha Basu, she said, “It was all good. And the race was really good. I did not face any problem. Saif was there too and he also was comfortable.”
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