Bollywood Stories

The tune was done in twenty minutes - Dhanush

2011-12-29T03:04:00.000-08:00

Last Week Dhanush performed live in Mumbai, his first stage performance. Says the actor shyly, "Earlier I had sung a song for my brother filmmaker Selvaraghavan's audio release. That's my only live performance so far. I wasn't nervous about performing this time. If I was a professional singer, I'd worry. But I'm an amateur, so it didn't matter if I went off-key."

Now this week Dhanush took Kolkata by storm. Says Dhanush humbly, "Kolkata was a great experience. It was an overwhelming experience."

Next, Dhanush will perform live in Delhi. Says the actor, "God has been very kind to me. I had a great year. I couldn't have asked for more. Now I'm just going to focus on shooting the song for my wife's film. Let's see where it goes from there. It will be shot in the first week of January."

Dhanush's wife, Aishwarya, is directing him in 3. And the song 'Kolaveri Di' is already a big hit. "It seems the song has become bigger than the film. But the film has a solid and novel script. Once people see the film, they'll see the song as just a part of the narration."

Dhanush is refreshingly matter-of-fact about 'Kolaveri'. "It's just a song, just a phase. It will pass. I am one of those people who don't know how to speak proper English. But I manage. Speaking the English language was initially a huge problem for me, so I knew how to connect with people like me. I knew what words to choose so that they connect with people who are not fluent in English."

Dhanush has no illusions about the quality of the lyrics. "It's not poetry. Whatever silly words came to my mind I used it in the song. It's just like any composition, nothing special. A group of us gen-next kids me, Shruti Haasan, my wife Aishwarya and the composer Annirudh were open to ideas. The tune was done in twenty minutes. As soon as I heard the song, the words simply came to my mind spontaneously. I wanted the words to be understood by everybody regardless of whether they know English or not."

tranformar-3

2011-06-30T06:28:00.000-07:00

Shoaib-Sania's reception in Pakistan

2010-04-27T02:32:00.000-07:00

Uninvited guests and security mismanagement marred Sania Mirza and Shoaib Malik's reception in Sialkot, Pakistan, forcing the hassled newly-weds to leave the function before it was ove

Raavan Music Launch

2010-04-27T02:27:00.000-07:00

Aishwarya shared her story of filming in Tamil. "This movie has really boosted my confidence in speaking Tamil. But learning Tamil dialogue on the sets and understanding the meaning of the lines was quite scary," she said.

Raavan Music Launch

2010-04-27T02:25:00.000-07:00

Despite all the trouble they had, they insist Ratnam is the best. "Once you work with him, you will be in awe of him because of the talent he brings to the table. The minute he says cut, he turns into a dear friend," says Abhishek, who plays Beera, whose nickname is Raavan.

Raavan Music Launch

2010-04-27T02:20:00.000-07:00

Aishwarya has agreed to come along," says Abhishek, looking dapper in a black suit. His star wife looked elegant in an intricately designed Sabyasachi sari. However, the spotlight was on Mani Ratnam's Raavan, arguably the most awaited release of 2010.

Raavan- Music Launch

2010-04-27T01:57:00.000-07:00

Abhishek and Aishwarya Bachchan were in Mumbai on Saturday, just for a day. The stopover - before flying to Greece - was for the music launch of their upcoming film Raavan.

Katrina is upset

2010-04-13T03:20:00.000-07:00

Kat's supremely upset over pen pushers pitting Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and her as 'warring contenders' over brand endorsements, since Kat has been signed up for some of the pricey labels which Ash had earlier advertised for.

Katrina is upset

2010-04-13T03:15:00.000-07:00

Katrina Kaif is far from happy. Sharp media attention over her fainting on the Malshej Ghat sets of Farah Khan's 'Tees Maar Khan' has rankled Kat, since she describes the unfortunate swooning as 'a one off incident.' An irked Kaif blasted the media citing "constant negativity" as her prime grouse against the scribe tribe

Aishwarya Rai Empress of 2010

2010-04-13T03:08:00.000-07:00

Then comes the big budget sci-fi film Endhiran, starring Southern Superstar Rajinikanth. The film is said to be made at a budget of Rs. 125 crores. Endhiran, directed by Kollywood's master filmmaker S. Shankar, is also is special for its choreography by Prabhu Deva. Lyrics by Vairamuthu, art direction by Sabu Cyril and cinematography by Ratnavelu comprise a regular Shankar team. The stylish director has also roped in Oscar winner Resul Pookutty for sound effects; it is also said that a unique sound effect has been created for the film. The story of Endhiran is set in the future, when new and bizarre fashion fads would come into existence. Music is by Oscar winning A.R. Rahman.

Aishwarya Rai Empress of 2010

2010-04-13T03:04:00.000-07:00

First comes Raavan, Mani Ratnam's most ambitious bilingual project. Raavan, said to be the modern adaptation of the epic Ramayana, revolves around Ravana, the ruler of Lanka, who kidnapped Sita. The story culminates with Sita taking the side of Ravana instead of Rama, who suspects her chastity after having spent so much time in Ravana's custody. Vikram plays the villain. Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai are the lead pair in Hindi, while Vikram will play the lead opposite Aishwarya in Tamil. Music is by Oscar winning A.R. Rahman.

Saif -Bebo at Padma Awards

2010-04-13T02:39:00.000-07:00

President Pratibha Patil with actors Rekha Ganeshan, Saif Ali Khan Pataudi and Kareena Kapoor during Padma Awards 2010 function at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on Wednesday. PTI Photo by Subhav Shukla

Priyanka's big day at awards

2010-04-13T02:35:00.000-07:00

Priyanka Chopra created a mini stampede at Vigyan Bhavan on Friday. The Bollywood star was in the Capital to collect her Best Actress National Award from President Pratibha Patil.

Amid the chaos, the real reason for the function - giving away the National Award for Cinema for 2008 - took a backseat.

The silly season award

2010-04-13T02:27:00.000-07:00

Preity Zinta

TABLOIDS hailed her as 'the only man in Bollywood' after she revealed guts by testifying against the mafia. But the dimpled diva cut a rather girly picture at the Indian Premier League by calling Yuvraj Singh - the star player of her IPL team, Kings XI Punjab - her 'younger brother'. This came when the grapevine was busy linking her to Yuvi. Was it Preity's new mantra to inspire Yuvi in the absence of energetic hugs that seemed to work somewhat in IPL 2 last year? Amidst all the on-field, off-field drama, we wonder if the 'younger brother' comment lead to Yuvraj's lack of form. Yuvi, it is learnt, blasted Preity's bhai-behen rishtedaariby stating that 'she's like an elder sister and mother to many people but not me.' Ouch!

The silly season award

2010-04-13T01:02:00.000-07:00

Abhishek Bachchan

RECALL the tagline of Karan Johar's multistarrer Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham: 'It's all about loving your family.' Now, the filmmaker can attempt a sequel of his hit film taking a cue from his Dostanastar Abhishek Bachchan's bigheaded statement. 'We don't deserve a talent like Amitabh Bachchan' in India. Abhishek declared as much on Twitter.com, funnily after watching the Big B's super-dud Rann. Come to think of it, all along the Bachchans have been promoting each other blatantly but Junior B's statement stands out for its sheer arrogance. It didn't go down well with everyone as fans criticised heavily on Twitter, though Abhishek stuck to his words. On second thoughts, Abhi can attempt a sequel of Family, another recent dud starring the Big B

The silly season award

2010-04-13T00:59:00.000-07:00

Akshay Kumar

WHEN you hear Akshay Kumar laughing irritatingly in a mobile company ad in between IPL match telecasts, you can't stop wondering if he's going all out to hide his pain of delivering back-to-back flops over the past year or so. You can actually feel his pain of box-office rejection in the never-ending laughter attack. The commercial has clearly boomeranged, so the cellphone company in question has pulled off the campaign now. It is high time Akshay realises that his novelty as a buffoon hero has waned. His 'unique' laughter worked when it did in a few nonsensical comedies, but with ticket windows seeing near-zilch collections for his films, it's time for Akki to redefine himself. And get rid of the laughter.

The silly season award

2010-04-13T00:44:00.000-07:00

Bollywood babes and babas are upto off-screen antics to garner limelight. Here are the most ludicrous ones.

It's pure love for SRK, Hrithik

2010-04-01T02:58:00.000-07:00

It took a decade for two of Bollywood’s biggest heroes to put their egos behind them and strike up a friendship based on “pure love”.

In 2000 when Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai and Mohabbatein released, reigning actor Shah Rukh Khan and one of the most talked about newcomer Hrithik Roshan most certainly didn’t see eye to eye. In fact, the media had a field day playing up their differences. Sources say that even when Karan Johar brought them together for his film Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, the two were just about cordial with each other.

However, things are quite different now. The last year and a half has seen a 180 degree turn in the equation between Shah Rukh and Hrithik, who are now best friends. Hrithik says, “We have our wives to thank for this. Gauri and Sussanne are very very close. And yes, in a way they have brought Shah Rukh and me closer.”

Pondering over their now thick as blood relationship, Hrithik says, “Shah Rukh has always been extremely warm even when we were not so close. I have come to respect him for that.”

“We have become very close and have partied together so often. We have celebrated each other’s successes and also each other’s failures. Shah Rukh and I are just happy friends and we look for every little excuse to spend time with each other,” adds Hrithik.

Hrithik says that while the world sees just the two of them being friends, SRK and he are part of a much larger group. Karan Johar, Uday Chopra, Sanjay Kapoor, Arjun Rampal, Chunky Pandey, Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar also hang out with them.

“All of us usually go out together,” says Hrithik. ``It is nice to have people who care for you and are there for you especially in an industry where it is very easy to get entangled in ego clashes.”

He sums up his equation with SRK saying, “Shah Rukh and I have a relationship where there is no competition or jealousy. There is nothing but pure love.”

Bebo, Saif want Date Night

2010-04-01T02:45:00.000-07:00

After Kurbaan, fans have been eagerly awaiting to see more of the sizzling chemistry between Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor. While they still have Agent Vinod to look forward to, sources close to the couple have indicated that they are scouting for some more interesting projects to work together on. Inside sources say that they had approached a Hollywood studio to let them see the film Date Night starring Steve Carell and Tina Fey. Apparently, Saif was keen on doing a remake with his girlfriend and therefore wanted to show the film to Kareena to seek her opinion. However, after a screening organised by producers, they were having second thoughts about it as they felt that the roles would better suit someone more senior and mature looking. A recent media report has hinted that Ajay Devgn and Kajol may do it.

No kisses for Katrina

2010-04-01T02:25:00.000-07:00

Whatever the producer, director and stylist respectively come up with, they realise has been done before with Priyanka Chopra in Dostana... right from beachwear to sarees. Dostana 2 moves completely away from Miami and shifts to London. That’s another issue. London has been done to death by Bollywood. Practically every second film from Vivek Agnihotri’s Goal to Abbas Tyrewala’s 1-800-Love has been shot there. There is not a spot in London that Indian moviegoers aren’t familiar with. The third issue facing Dostana 2 is Katrina’s no-exposure, no-kissing clause. Since the film won’t go anywhere near beaches, the actress needn’t fear exposure. As for kissing, the kiss is again between Abhishek and John!

Mauli Dave Maiyya Maiya 2007

2010-03-21T00:03:00.000-07:00

A.R.REHAMAN

2010-03-20T23:49:00.000-07:00

IPL 2010 much about cricket

2010-03-15T06:36:00.000-07:00

Shane Warne never loses his temper on the field. I think that comes from the fact that he is a very good poker player. We have implicit faith in how he brings the team together. And, he is a very strict captain.

IPL 2010 much about cricket

2010-03-15T06:31:00.000-07:00

The Rajasthan Royals are the cheapest team in the IPL. Have you seen any profit so far? When you talk about us being the cheapest team, automatically, the profits that we look at are much higher, in terms of revenue making. Because we have paid the least on the books, I think itâ€™s extremely profitable for us. And as co-owners, Raj and I have paid much more to be part of the Royals. But I think we take it as a compliment because after we came onboard, we not only increased the valuation of our team, but also the sport. We have already made money on the books as co-owners. I think the Royals have done pretty well financially this year and we are a well-marketed team.

IPL 2010 much about cricket

2010-03-15T06:24:00.000-07:00

It is said that Shah Rukh Khan peps his team up with motivational smses. How do you communicate with players? I don't interfere in the daily nitty-gritty of the team. I look after the marketing aspect. I think we have got people who handle that job exceptionally well in the Royals. In all humility, I am not in a position to advice people on cricket. I don't know that much about the game except that I love my team and love watching cricket. I was recently in Jaipur when the final team was being picked. And though we gave our inputs, the final call was Shaneâ€™s. And Warnie has assured me that this is the best squad in terms of form. That is some kind of an assurance for us owners because he knows best and he is involved in the day-today running of things when it comes to the teams.

I don't know much about cricket

2010-03-15T06:21:00.000-07:00

The concept of a home and away jersey... sounds innovative, but do you like it? (Chuckles) Frankly, I liked the previous one (team jersey). But there are certain changes that we had to make because everyone was making changes. The home and away thing is a new concept and it will probably take some time to catch up. I really think that we at the Royals like to do things that are more internationally acceptable, and, that's why we are even trying for a dynamic association with teams from all over the world. I know it's kind of a continuity jerk, but the Knight Riders also have a complete changeover in terms of colour. I hope it bodes well for our sponsors and the team as well.

don't know much about cricket

2010-03-15T06:13:00.000-07:00

Sexy, savvy and smart, she is one of India's best-known Bollywood divas. She is also co-owner of one of the two teams that has won an IPL crown. On the eve of the Rajasthan Royals' opening clash with the Mumbai Indians, the newly married Shilpa Shetty opened up on life on the tour, her maverick skipper Shane Warne and lots more in an exclusive, freewheeling chat. Excerpts.

Hottest colour trends of 2010

2010-03-10T05:41:00.000-08:00

This green dress won Kat a lot of praise for two reasons! One - She looked astounding in it. Second - She didn't throw a tantrum when she found someone else wearing the exact same dress in a different shade of green!

Hottest colour trends of 2010

2010-03-10T05:38:00.000-08:00

Rani sports her new toned figure with this body hugging number, interestingly very similar to Katrina's dress in the last slide. But she looks ravishing nonetheless.

Hottest colour trends of 2010

2010-03-10T05:36:00.000-08:00

Is it the Rocky motif that's giving Kareena Kapoor that extra leap to her step? The minimalist makeup and simple hairdo give her a very fresh look.In the picture: Kareena Kapoor at a 3 Idiots event

Lakme Fashion Week

2010-03-09T00:44:00.000-08:00

Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone displays designers Shantanu and Nikhil's creations on the third day of Lakme fashion week

Holi celebrations in Bollywood

2010-03-06T03:50:00.000-08:00

Diya Mirza promoting Love, Tum Aur Ghost at Zoom Holi in Andheri, Mumbai.Colours and chaos reigned as celebs bombarded each other with almost every shade there is and more. Here are images of revelries at Riya and Raima Sen's and then later on at the Zoom holi event.

Holi celebrations in Bollywood

2010-03-06T03:45:00.000-08:00

The Sen sisters were out armed and ready to celebrate the festival as we caught the two and the pair of Arshad Warsi and Diya Mirza promoting Love, Tum Aur Ghost at Zoom Holi in Andheri, Mumbai.Colours and chaos reigned as celebs bombarded each other with almost every shade there is and more. Here are images of revelries at Riya and Raima Sen's and then later on at the Zoom holi event.

Big B shocked to see Shashi Kapoor in wheelchair

2010-03-06T03:42:00.000-08:00

Amitabh Bachchan was shocked to see Shashi Kapoor, his co-star of Trishul, Deewar and so many other hits, confined to a wheelchair at the Filmfare awards last week.Amitabh was supposed to present the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award to the 71-year-old actor, but could not attend.However, Amitabh saw pictures of the event later and was shocked - just like so many of his other fans."...the affable [Filmfare] editor Jitesh Pillai had asked me if I would give the Lifetime achievement Award to Shashi Kapoor and I had agreed. With great pleasure. I missed that more than the expectation of winning the best actor award. Seeing him confined to a wheel chair, was something I could never associate with Shashiji," the 67-year-old posted on his"Shashi Kapoor, that handsome gentle man. A smile on his face forever. A considerate calling on each meeting, now in this condition? Never," he added.Remembering the times they spent together, Amitabh wrote: "Film after film we did together, Shashiji and I, shared some of my most memorable times together in the Industry. He is now my relative. His elder brother, the great Raj Kapoor's daughter Ritu's son Nikhil is married to [my daughter] Shweta."I spoke to him on his birthday some days ago and then again when I wanted to invite him to the premier of Paa. He had sounded weak in voice and expressed his inability to come. ‘I am not well', he had whispered faintly and I told him I would arrange a special screening for him. But I had never expected him to be the way I saw him at the award function in the pictures a few days back," said Amitabh.The lifetime achievement award to Shashi was finally given by Shabana Azmi.

It's been a wonderful ride

2010-03-06T02:30:00.001-08:00

Farah is unique as a director and what she gives in her sense of glamour and presentation is something which I am very excited to be part of and I hope that we make a great film,' she added.

It's been a wonderful ride

2010-03-06T02:28:00.000-08:00

'Rajneeti', she will be seen rubbing shoulders with veterans like Nana Patekar and Naseeruddin Shah along with talented actors Ajay Devgn, Manoj Bajpai, Arjun Rampal and Bollywood's new sensation Ranbir Kapoor. Produced by Ronnie Screwvala and directed by Prakash Jha,

It's been a wonderful ride

2010-03-06T02:26:00.000-08:00

am excited about the part but I am not very excited about speaking Hindi because I spoke Hindi in my last 10 films. It's a great role and a great film and I certainly hope people enjoy it,' Katrina told IANS over the phone from Dubai. 'Rajneeti' is Katrina's first political thriller and she says she wants to keep her options open by not restricting herself to any particular genre.

It's been a wonderful ride

2010-03-06T02:11:00.000-08:00

It's a departure in every which way for this Bollywood actress on the ascendant. She is playing a deglamorised politician and the Hindi has to be perfect too, but Britain born Katrina Kaif says her role in 'Rajneeti' excites her more because she is now comfortable with the language.

Filmfare Awards

2010-03-03T01:39:00.000-08:00

Hosting the gala night were Bollywood actors Shah Rukh Khan and Saif Ali Khan, whose one liners had the audience in splits. Their on-stage chemistry was much appreciated by the Bollywood stars present at the ceremony at the Yash Raj Studios.

Big B, Vidya Balan claim top honours at Filmfare Awards

2010-03-03T01:35:00.000-08:00

Bollywood stars Amitabh Bachchan and Vidya Balan were cited as best actor and best actress respectively at the star-studded 55th Filmfare Awards ceremony here late Saturday

Celebrating Holi with bolliwood star

2010-03-03T01:28:00.000-08:00

The mark which fun-loving Juhi and tough Sunny created in the song 'Ang se Ang lagana' in the film DARR can be once again seen with Saifeena's pair. So, filmmakers are you listening

Celebrating Holi with bolliwood star

2010-03-03T01:25:00.000-08:00

Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan: The unabashed masti, the magical chemistry, the craziness, the noise, which Amitabh-Rekha had created in the highly popular Holi song 'Rang barse', who else can carry on the magic of Big B than beta with bahu

Celebrating Holi with bolliwood star

2010-03-03T01:20:00.000-08:00

All these years we enjoyed the Holi moments, matching the steps on various Holi songs, featuring some of our favourite Bollywood stars of olden days. Now it's the time for the young guns of Bollywood to sprinkle the screen with their vibrant colours. Following is the list of actors, whom we would love to watch, recreating the Holi Ki Dhamal on-screen.

Anil Ambani's star-studded party

2010-03-03T01:16:00.000-08:00

Hhithik Roshan along with his father Rakesh Roshan, mother Pinky and wife Suzzane.

Anil Ambani's star-studded party

2010-03-03T01:01:00.000-08:00

Anil Ambani hosted a star-studded party at Grand Hyatt in Mumbai last night where Bollywood biggies like Amitabh Bachhan, Rhithik Roshan and many others turned up. The biggest attraction was of course the Bachhans who were in news recently for boycotting the Filmfare awards! In this picture, Amitabh Bachhan is seen along with Aishwarya and Abhishek.

National award bagging actor

2010-02-19T02:38:00.000-08:00

National award bagging actor Konkona Sen Sharma, has stumbled upon a novel manner of passing her free time, between shots.

Filmfare nominies are...

2010-02-19T02:33:00.000-08:00

Aamir Khan for '3 Idiots

Bollywood's trophy husbands

2010-02-19T02:30:00.000-08:00

Manyata Dutt has struck gold with her marriage to Sanjay Dutt. While gossip mills churn out stories after stories about the couple, we know one thing for sure. With Sanjay's macho good looks and style, Manyata seems to have found her 'man of her heart'.

Bollywood's trophy husbands

2010-02-19T02:27:00.000-08:00

One of the better looking couples in Bollywood, Akshay Kumar and Twinkle are one of the reigning Hindi film industry's dynasties. Akshay is a true blood macho man. No wonder Twinkle is still smitten.

Bollywood's trophy husbands

2010-02-19T02:24:00.000-08:00

'Baadshah' of Bollywood. He has it all, the name, the fame, the money, the reputation. Gauri Khan sure is lucky to have him for a husb

Bollywood's trophy husbands

2010-02-19T02:21:00.000-08:00

Bollywood's super duper trophy husbands! Aamir Khan - He's cute, lovable, funny, chirpy! What more does a woman

Bollywood's trophy husbands

2010-02-19T02:18:00.000-08:00

Abhy as a "trophy husband." And what's better, Bachchan Jr amply proved it, of late. Reportedly, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan was committed to picking up a trophy at a rather prestigious women's publication event. The sinfully gorgeous Ash, laid down with fever and advised bed rest could not make it. Bingo! Abhishek Bachchan showed his true 'Colors'. He zoomed off on a two hour ride from a suburban studio to a South Mumbai hotel and reached in the nick of time... to bag his spouse's trophy. Just Ash she likes it!

And the Filmfare nominies are.

2010-02-19T02:15:00.000-08:00

nominations for the 55th Idea Filmfare Awards 2009. Best Male Actor - Amitabh Bachchan for 'Paa'

Movie Review: Road to Sangam

2010-02-17T01:26:00.000-08:00

One look at the promos of ROAD TO SANGAM and you realize that this isn't one of those films you watch every week. ROAD TO SANGAM, in fact, pricks your conscience and mirrors a reality.Wars have been fought and are still being fought in the name of religion. ROAD TO SANGAM tries to seek answers to the burning issue and in the process, also talks of partition and the Muslims in present-day India.Made with honest intentions, this one's targeted at connoisseurs of cinema.ROAD TO SANGAM tells the story of a God-fearing, devout Muslim mechanic named Hashmat Ullah [Paresh Rawal], who has been entrusted the job of repairing an old Ford engine, not knowing its historic significance.He is caught in a complex situation after a powerful bomb explosion rocks his town, leading to the arrest of innocent Muslim youths of his locality. A strike to work is called by the prominent leaders [played by Om Puri and Pawan Malhotra] of his community to protest against the unjust treatment meted out to those arrested youths by the police.Will he support the protest and abandon the repair of the engine or go against the wishes of his community A simple, thought-provoking story, ROAD TO SANGAM has some brilliant moments and also some sequences that you carry home. But what could've been told in a concise format seems stretched after a point. Also, besides moving at a snail's pace, there's also sermonising at times, which wasn't really required.Writer-director Amit Rai explains his point of view, but the screenplay could've been firm for a stronger impact. Otherwise, the director has succeeded in extracting wonderful performances from the principal cast.Paresh Rawal excels in this film. This is amongst his finest works. Om Puri is equally competent, although the length of his role is limited. Pawan Malhotra is efficient, as always. Javed Sheikh is good. The remaining actors enact their parts very well.On the whole, ROAD TO SANGAM is mainly for connoisseurs of cinema and also for the festival circuit.

'Toh Baat Pakki' - middle-class family's groom-hunting circus

2010-02-17T01:23:00.000-08:00

Tabu is back after a three-year hiatus to showcase an Indian middle-class family's perpetual search for a suitable groom for their daughter in the comedy "Toh Baat Pakki", which releases Friday.Marking the Hindi directorial debut of noted Marathi filmmaker Kedar Shinde, the movie also features Sharman Joshi, Yuvika Chaudhary and Vatsal Seth. It has been produced by Ramesh S. Taurani.The National Award-winning actress was last seen in a blink and miss appearance in Shah Rukh Khan-starrer "Om Shanti Om" in 2007. "With 'Toh Baat Pakki', you will witness a new side of mine," she had been quoted as saying.Tabu's confidence was enough to leave Sharman nervous."It was wonderful working with Tabu in 'Toh Baat Pakki'. She is a stunning actor, but I was very worried about how to break the ice with her initially. But she was very sweet and friendly, so all of us gelled very well on the sets," Sharman told IANS."Toh Baat Pakki" is about a middle class woman Rajeshwari (Tabu), who is obsessed with getting her younger sister Nisha married to a well-settled boy. How the choice of groom oscillates from Sharman to Vatsal and vice versa is what forms the rest of the story.The film is based in a small town and Rajeshwari exemplifies the quintessential Indian middle class woman who aspires to be part of the high society.Married to Vinay (Ayub Khan), a cashier in a bank, with two children, Rajeshwari's dream is to get her sister Nisha married to the best suitable guy within their Saxena community.As the story unfolds, Rajeshwari finds engineering student Rahul (Sharman) and offers him a place in her house as a paying guest. But when she learns he is not interested in marriage, she devices a plan to bring her sister closer to Rahul.Nisha's innocence and simplicity impresses Rahul and eventually they fall in love.When the marriage is set, the story takes a twist as another boy Yuvraaj (Vatsal) from the same community comes to Rajeshwari's house. He has his own business and is waiting for his house to be built...and he is potentially a bigger catch.So, Rajesjwari now tries to set up Nisha with Yuvraaj.Low on buzz and meant for a niche audience, the small-budget "Toh Baat Pakki" is succeeding Shah Rukh's "My Name Is Khan" at the box office.

'Click' to unravel the past in photographs

2010-02-17T01:18:00.000-08:00

Sangeeth Sivan's maiden attempt at horror "Sandhya" may have never been released but the director has re-attempted to chill audiences' spine with his upcoming horror outing "Click", releasing Friday. The movie deals with dark secrets in photographs.

Produced by Pritish Nandy Communications and RNA Play Entertainment, it stars Shreyas Talpade, Sneha Ullal, southern actress Sada, Rehan Khan and Chunky Panday. It will be distributed across the country by PVR Pictures.

"'Sandhya' (starring Jackie Shroff and Ashutosh Rana), my first horror flick, didn't see the light of the day, I went on to make comedies like 'Kya Kool Hain Hum' and 'Apna Sapna Money Money'. These films helped me establish myself firmly in Bollywood," Sivan said.

"I went a step ahead and roped in Bobby (Deol) and Nana (Patekar) for an action thriller 'Ek - The Power Of One'. Now, I thought of shifting to a different genre. The horror subject fascinated me and I decided to get the film ('Click') on floors," he added.

An unofficial remake of the Thai horror film "Shutter", which was made in Tamil as "Sivi" in 2007, "Click" is the story of a young photographer and his girlfriend.

He takes pictures and hides a secret from his past and when the secret is revealed, it threatens to ruin not only his life but also that of his family, friends and loved ones.

It is a secret that comes from a world that's different from ours.

A bit low on promotions and buzz, "Click" is releasing in the week following Shah Rukh Khan starrer "My Name Is Khan". Another Hindi movie "Toh Baat Pakki" is also releasing on the same day.

Rahman out of Oscar race

2010-02-17T00:38:00.000-08:00

A.R. Rahman's song "Na na" from the film "Couples Retreat" has failed to bag a nomination in the original song category for the 82nd Academy Awards. The news came just a day after he triumphed at the Grammys by bagging double Golden Gramophones.

Competing with 62 songs from eligible feature-length motion pictures for nomination, Rahman's "Na na" lost out to "Almost there" ("The Princess And The Frog"), "Down in new Orleons" ("The Princess And The Frog"), "Loin de Paname" ("Paris 36"), "Take it all" ("Nine") and "The weary Kind" (Crazy Heart").

"Na na" was penned by double Oscar winner Rahman, Blaaze and Vivian Chaix and crooned by Rahman, Blaaze, Chaix, A.R. Ameen (Rahman's son), Clinton and Dominic.

The 82nd Academy Awards event will take place March 7 in Hollywood, California.

Bollywood cheers as Rahman scoops double Grammys

2010-02-17T00:36:00.000-08:00

The Hindi film industry is elated after music maestro A.R. Rahman triumphed at the 52nd annual Grammy Awards by scooping two golden gramophones. From Gulzar and Javed Akhtar to Shyam Benegal and Subhash Ghai, all feel he has taken Indian music places and made the country proud.

Members of Bollywood praised the dedication of the 44-year-old, who is also a double Oscar winner. This is what they had to say.

Gulzar: We all are very proud of him. This magical musician has brought more honour to India, his family, fans, friends and his entire team. Such a young man has made his mark on the music map of the world. All of us should put him on our shoulders.

Javed Akhtar: He is great! Rahman has taken India's music places.

Imtiaz Ali: It fills me with pride. Also makes me think if he is getting this much accolade for 'Jai ho', wonder what the reaction of the West will be when they discover the rest of Rahman? I'm waiting to see the man go from strength to strength.

Shyam Benegal: Fantastic...Rahman is the greatest.

Subhash Ghai: I am proud of Rahman as a special friend and composer who made India proud in the world of music. It's his true dedication towards innovative music and his connection with divine energies. Bravo Rahman!

Sulaiman Merchant: I would like to congratulate Rahman for his consecutive wins at the Oscars and Grammys. He has taken Indian music into the international arena.

Javed Ali: I am feeling on top of the world. I think this is the best award and I have worked with him, that's why I think this is my award too.

Sukhwinder Singh: I am extremely happy for Rahman. As I have said earlier, I had been hoping for international recognition for him since 'Roja'. So I am not at all surprised.

Vishal Dadlani: Two Grammys for Rahman, congratulations! God is great and India is truly proud.

Sunidhi Chauhan: It's great news. He truly deserves it... heartiest congratulations to him.

Manoj Bajpayee: We all are proud of Rahman. He has opened doors for other music directors and we will be thankful to him for his contribution... I have no words to explain it. My best wishes to him.

Mallika Sherawat: Congrats A.R. (Rahman)...congrats India! Jai ho! (I'm) so proud.

Lara Dutta: Rahman congratulations! That's a fantastic achievement. We wish you many more. God bless.

Shreya Ghoshal: What great news to wake up to this morning - double Grammy. This is just the beginning, sir. So proud of you. Hearty congratulations.

Purab Kohli: Rahman's music has always been moving and inspiring. As Indians, we always knew that. It was only a matter of time that the world would notice. Congratulations to him. Jai ho!

Raghav Sachar: Heartiest congratulations, well deserved Grammys, besides "Jai ho", all the work over the years. And thanks for opening the world for India in music.

Asha Bhosle sings her first Kannada song

2010-02-17T00:30:00.000-08:00

Asha Bhosle sang her first Kannada song for the movie "Mandahaasa" and composer Veera Samarth, who convinced her to croon it, says it is the biggest turning point in his musical career."This is the biggest turning point in my musical career. I have been trying to get Asha didi to sing a song for a Kannada film for months. I sent her a musical track five months ago. She must have liked the track as she asked me to meet her. Then she heard the track again and said that she consulted her friends who know about the quality of Kannada lyrics," said Samarth.Written by Raghavendra Kamath, the song was recorded on Feb 2 at Mumbai's Spectral Harmony studio."Didi took just two-and-a-half hour to sing the song. And the rehearsal of the song was done a day earlier. Asha didi wrote the lyrics in Hindi in her own handwriting and what a song it was. I was in tears when she completed the song. I am sure it would be one of the most brilliant songs in Kannada," Samarth told IANS.Produced by Basava Reddy, "Mandahaasa" is Rajesh Nair's directorial debut. Nair worked with UTV as a chief executive in charge of production.In the 1070s, Asha's elder sister, Lata Mangeshkar had sung a song for the historical Kannada film "Sangolli Rayanna". Titled "Bellane Belagayithu", the song is still remembered despite the fact that the film wasn't a hit at the box office.

10 Albums to watch out for in 2010

2010-02-17T00:24:00.000-08:00

Whatever be the fate of Bollywood films year after year, there is always something consistent about the world of films and that happens to be it's music. 2009 saw quite a few good soundtracks hitting the stands and 2010 should be no exception with number of diverse films spread across genres. While 2009 was dominated by Pritam, 2010 is pretty much setting the stage for number of top line composers with Vishal-Shekhar and Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy also joining in. A.R. Rahman is expected to continue his good work; Rajesh Roshan would be back as well while Himesh Reshammiya is expected to churn out his yearly hit. Meanwhile, expect a few surprises from the likes of Salim-Sulaiman as well as new finds Sachin & Jigar. Joginder Tuteja brings to you 10 most anticipated albums of 2010 (in alphabetical order) that should see an all around popularity in months to come.

Action Replayy (Pritam)

Pritam is expected to carry forward the great run that he has been enjoying during last 3-4 years. Action Replayy is also special because it brings together the hit team of Vipul Shah, Akshay Kumar and Pritam together after Singh Is Kinng. Vipul has been known for roping in different composers for each of his films, whether it was Aankhen (Jatin-Lalit, Aadesh Srivastava), Waqt - Race Against Time (Anu Malik) or Namastey London (Himesh Reshammiya). However, after London Dreams (Shankar Ehsaan Loy), he has gone back to Pritam and in the process repeated a composer for the first time ever.

Anjaana Anjaani (Vishal Shekhar)

Vishal and Shekhar were quiet all through 2009 with Aladin (for which they composed a couple of years back) being their sole release of the year. However, it was for a reason since they were getting bigger things in place for entire 2010. The year should begin with Anjaana Anjaani and it has all the right reasons to be mighty successful. Reason being that in Siddharth Anand's Bachna Ae Haseeno and Salaam Namaste, they gave some real good melodies even though Ta Ra Rum Pum was a step behind. Now with Ranbir Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra forming the film's cast, it is but obvious that the composer duo would push themselves further for this Sajid Nadiadwala production.

Guzaarish (Sanjay Leela Bhansali)

He didn't quite make history with the music of Saawariya. However, the reputation that Sanjay Leela Bhansali carries ever since the days of Khamoshi, Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam and Devdas means that the man is expected to deliver goods in a big way with Guzaarish. Since he has himself decided to hold the baton for the music of this Hrithik Roshan - Aishwarya Rai starrer as the composer, the excitement is palpable. Expect the man with a vision of his own to surprise and reinvent filmmaking as well as music all over again with Guzaarish.

Housefull (Shankar Ehsaan Loy)

This is one 'houseful' affair waiting to happen. Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy may not have created a blockbuster score in 2009 but they did deliver good quality music all through the year. Sajid Khan directed Housefull is touted to be that BIG project for the composer trio where they are expected to go all out in getting a huge commercial soundtrack in place. With a huge star cast to boast of and Sajid's eye for mass appeal to vouch for, Housefull is expected to be the first musical success for Akshay Kumar in 2010.

I Hate Luv Stories (Vishal Shekhar)

Sheer volume of albums being churned out by Vishal-Shekhar in 2010 indicates that this could well be their year after a rather dull 2009. Not restricted to working in any fixed camps, the composer duo is smartly balancing work across different filmmakers. For this Karan Johar production, they are expected to create a peppy rom-com outing (going with the genre of the film). Coming together of Imran Khan and Sonam Kapoor is enticing enough and icing on the cake would be music by Vishal and Shekhar that should keep the flag high for them all through the year.

Kajraare (Himesh Reshammiya)

His Radio may have sunk at the box office but it's music was much appreciated right till it's release. As a composer he has not let down even once and there is no reason why Kajraare should be any different. Moreover, since he joins hands with Bhatts (who have a rather impressive track record as far as their musical outings are concerned), Himesh is expected to put in double the effort for Kajraare. This time around though, Himesh would certainly be hoping that his good luck with music rubs on his foray into acting as well.

Kites (Rajesh Roshan)

Hrithik Roshan. Rakesh Roshan. Rajesh Roshan. Need one say more about this combination? Their soundtrack for Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai may stay on to be their best while Krrish wasn't exactly the kind of outing that met sky high expectations of their fans and followers. Still, Roshans are a brand together and that should get wheels moving for Kites as well. Also, a fact that cannot be ignored is the involvement of director Anurag Basu whose taste in music won't raise any doubts. Remember Life In A Metro, Gangster and Murder?

Ra. 1 (Vishal Shekhar)

Ra. 1 may or may not release in 2010 but if it indeed does then this could well be a film to watch out for. Vishal and Shekhar have been known for their consistency and their penchant for doing limited but quality projects is helping them build a unique branding for themselves. With Shah Rukh Khan, they have made Om Shanti Om while with director Anubhav Sinha they have made some rocking tracks in Dus and much ignored Cash. Ra. 1 is just the kind of assignment that could redefine the musical scene as the first decade of the new millennium comes to an end.

Raavan (A. R. Rahman)

From a techno Ra 1, it's time to jump on to mythical Raavan with A.R. Rahman promising a lot for this Mani Ratnam directed modern day tale. From Dil Se to Yuva to Guru, Rahman has always delivered the best for Ratnam and expectations are gargantuan from this Abhishek Bachchan-Aishwarya Rai Bachchan starrer. The soundtrack is expected to be attached to the roots and set in a characteristic Indian backdrop. From the Oscar award composer, Raavan would be one of the biggest efforts to watch out for in 2010.

Tees Maar Khan (Vishal Shekhar)

Tees Maar Khan is all set to arrive by the end of this year. With Farah Khan joining hands with Vishal-Shekhar once again after Om Shanti Om and Akshay Kumar bringing on his star quotient and a strong music sense intact, Tees Maar Khan is a big project waiting to explode. Expect a 100% masala outing sans any pretence in the music of Tees Maar Khan that should keep the lovers of mass commercial Bollywood soundtracks happy.

India has dream run at Berlin film fest

2010-02-17T00:13:00.000-08:00

India has a dream run with eight feature films including "My Name Is Khan", "Peepli Live" and "Manthan" at the ongoing Berlin International Film Festival. Such a large selection is very rare at an A-list festival without an India focus.In its 60th anniversary, the festival has selected a wide range of Indian Bollywood and arthouse films in several languages. They are represented across different festival sections.There are also Indian films in the European Film Market that runs parallel to the Berlinale. No wonder there are nearly a 100 Indians at the festival.The eight features include Karan Johar's "My Name is Khan", Dev Benegal's "Road, Movie", Anusha Rizvi's "Peepli Live", Laxmikant Shetgaonkar's "Paltadacho Munis" (Man Beyond the Bridge, Konkani), Umesh Kulkarni's "Vihir" (the Well, Marathi), Kaushik Ganguly's "Arekti Premer Golpo" (Just Another Love Story, Bengali), Shyam Benegal's "Manthan", Satyajit Ray's "Charulata" and Madhusree Dutta and team's "Cinema City".Moreover, Indian film director Sridhar Rangayan is on the Teddy Queer Film Award Jury, which honours the best festival films in the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) context."My Name Is Khan" got a thunderous reception here. Dev Benegal's "Road, Movie" opened the Generation 14 plus section for young adults."I am thrilled that my film is in Berlin - I'm living the dream. But it is also historic, as it is the first Indian film to be picked up for international distribution by Fortissimo Films," Benegal told IANS.He is here with his cast, Abhay Deol, Tannishtha Chatterjee and Satish Kaushik."Peepli Live", produced by Aamir Khan, is a superb satire on farmer's suicides in India."Paltadacho Munis", produced by the National Film Development Corporation, is in the International Forum of New Cinema. It deals with the relationship between a forest guard and a mad woman.Amitabh Bachchan Corp Ltd's "Vihir" is a strong coming-of-age story of two young boys. "Arekti Premer Golpo" is a daring, sensitive, gay love story, with Rituparno Ghosh as creative director and lead actor.Benegal's 1976 critically acclaimed film "Manthan" shows in the Culinary Cinema, which explores food and politics. "Charulata" (1964) plays in the Retrospective section."Cinema City" compellingly explores the relationship between Mumbai and its film industry in Forum Expanded, which nestles on the border between cinema and the other arts.

Rohit Shetty announces official cast of Golmaal 3

2010-02-17T00:10:00.000-08:00

directing two super hit films in the Golmaal series, Rohit Shetty's third installment in the franchise Golmaal 3 is being awaited eagerly. In fact, during the past few days, there has been a lot of speculation about various names being part of the cast of this much awaited film. Hence, we decided it was best to verify with the man himself on who actually forms the principal cast.When we got in touch with Rohit Shetty asking him about the final cast of Golmaal 3, the talented director replied in his trademark humorous style, "There is so much speculation going around about the cast, it seems like I am making a Mughal-e-Azam". Speaking about the cast, Rohit said, "Let me clear all misconceptions once and for all. Golmaal 3 stars Ajay Devgn, Tusshar Kapoor, Shreyas Talpade, Arshad Warsi, Kunal Khemu, Kareena Kapoor, Mithun Chakraborty and Ratna Pathak Shah in principal roles. Besides some of my favorite actors like Johnny Lever, Murli Sharma, Ashwini Kalsekar and Sanjay Mishra also form the supporting cast."Speaking on some of the new members of the Golmaal family, Rohit says, "Yes we have Kunal Khemu, Mithun Chakraborty and Ratna Pathak Shah as new members of the cast. They are all new characters in the plot. Contrary to rumors, Mithun is not playing the character played by Paresh Rawal in the first part. It's a completely new character. Mithun and Ratna Pathak Shah's characters also end up getting married during the course of the film"We also asked him about the buzz doing the rounds that Arshad was not a part of the film. "No...Arshad is very much a part of Golmaal 3. In fact, we just finalized things with him today morning."Rohit begins filming Golmaal 3 with a 10 day schedule in Mumbai starting March 20 followed by a 50 day schedule at his favorite location Goa. Like his previous two films- All The Best and Golmaal Returns, Golmaal 3 too will have a grand Diwali release on Nov 5 this year.Besides Golmaal 3, Rohit is all set to direct his close buddy Ajay Devgn in an out and out action film. The film is apparently a remake of the 2009 Malayalam film Puthiya Mukham and is a solo hero film. In fact, the rights of the Malayalam film have already been acquired and in all probability Ajay Devgn himself along with Shree Ashtavinayak Cine Vision Ltd. will be producing this film. When we asked Rohit about this project, he did confirm the same but refused to reveal much at this stage.

Hrithik-Sussanne tweet love, admiration

2010-02-17T00:05:00.000-08:00

Bollywood star Hrithik Roshan and his wife Sussanne are a reclusive couple, but the duo has been quite vocal about their feelings for each other on social networking site Twitter."Friends, please welcome my wife, my friend, my lover, the coolest, the purest, the exotic Sussanne to Twitterland! Give love tweeple," Hrithik posted on his Twitter page.Sussanne, on the other hand, appreciated her husband's dedication to his work."So inspired when I see my Hrithik working.. (he) has the eye of the tiger.. no stopping till he gets it perfect and only because he loves you (the public) all too much," posted Sussanne, who is daughter of yesteryear actor Sanjay Khan.Hrithik was probably left embarrassed by his wife's shower of compliments and replied - "Stop it Sussanne, stop complimenting me in twublic! But thanks, felt good".The couple got married in 2000 after dating each other for long. They have two sons, Hrehaan, four and Hridhaan, two.

Ash visits Abhishek's grandmother despite illness

2010-02-17T00:01:00.000-08:00

Bollywood actress Aishwarya Rai, her relationships seem to score over everything - so much so that even though she was unwell, she travelled to Bhopal to celebrate the 80th birthday of her husband Abhishek Bachchan's maternal grandmother.According to a source close to Aishwarya, this was a commitment the couple had made to Abhishek's 'nani' (maternal grandmother) a while ago. And despite the high fever and sore throat that she has been suffering from since a few days, Aishwarya made sure she was there to fulfil her promise."Aishwarya is much much better, but still not 100 percent (fine). But she's my nani's favourite so she made the trip too. Should be back to fighting fit... in a day or two," Abhishek posted on social networking site Twitter.The actor says his grandmother's expression on seeing both of them was "priceless"."Made a surprise trip to Bhopal last night . Was my nani's 80th birthday! Her expression was priceless. All her grandchildren flew in from all over. My sister, our cousins all meeting after so long. Now everyone partaking in an old Indian habit, all sitting together... Eating, drinking and catching up!"My nani, of course, is back to being the matriarch! Making sure all her children are well fed and taken care of and doing what grandmoms do... feeding," he added.

Deepika features on cover of Maxim's 50th issue

2010-02-16T23:58:00.000-08:00

film Karthik Calling Karthik ready for release later this month, Deepika Padukone is here, there and everywhere. The gorgeous beauty features as the cover-girl in this month's issue of Maxim. The issue also happens to be Maxim's 50th issue and whom better than the super sexy Deepika as the cover girl for this special issue.In an exclusive interview with Maxim, Deepika talks about being surrounded by men right since her early days when she was a badminton player and then a model. She also gives some preferences on how she would want her ideal date to be. Last but not the least, the leggy lass also speaks about her current favorite movies.With some really hot pictures of Deepika from a brilliant photo-shoot, this issue makes a good read

'Mr.Bachchan is playing a reclusive,

2010-02-15T03:02:00.000-08:00

Mr.Bachchan is playing a reclusive, genius maths professor in the film. For his look, I first remembered how my teachers used to look. I visited various colleges to see how professors are dressed there. 'The first thing that I noticed was that all of them were very simple and they were not really bothered about their outward appearance. So for Mr.Bachchan's look I decided to go for authentic materials to make the character look close to reality,' she said.

Mr.Bachchan's reaction

2010-02-15T03:00:00.000-08:00

'After getting it, I was sceptical about Mr.Bachchan's reaction. I didn't know whether he would wear that watch or not. But he was completely fine with the idea,' said Punvani. The designer is all praise for Bachchan. 'Mr.Bachchan is such a marvellous person. He is such a huge personality and has an aura around him that you get scared when you first meet him. But he makes you so comfortable.

Mr.Bachchan to complete his look

2010-02-15T02:58:00.000-08:00

We paid a lot of attention on detailing. So much so that I had to get a watch for Mr.Bachchan to complete his look. He wears the best of watches, but I went to Mumbai's Chor Bazaar and got a very old watch from there that was not even automatic.

That was something a college professor

2010-02-15T02:55:00.000-08:00

That was something a college professor would wear ; so we zeroed in on that. Also, I didn't make the fit of the trousers very contemporary. I gave it a double pleated American-cut style - it makes the trousers look a little baggy,' she added. Directed by Leena Yadav, 'Teen Patti' features Amitabh as a mathematician trying to evolve a thesis on probability by relating it to the Indian card game of 'teen patti'. Also starring Hollywood veteran Ben Kingsley, the film is set to release Feb 26.

Big B's latest makeover

2010-02-15T02:53:00.000-08:00

'I was given the liberty to go to the biggest shops, but I instead decided to go to small markets to buy stuff. For Mr.Bachchan I created a look that had trousers, which were a mix of polyester, cheap material, around Rs.200 per metre along with checked cotton shirts

Big B's latest makeover

2010-02-15T02:51:00.000-08:00

Cheap cloth, ill-fitted trousers, checked cotton shirts and an old watch from Mumbai's Chor Bazaar - these are what designer Ameira Punvani used to create Amitabh Bachchan's look in 'Teen Patti' where he plays a reclusive mathematician. She says the megastar gave her enough freedom to experiment with his look.

YRF's next featuring Shahid and Anushka titled as Badmaash Company

2010-02-13T01:50:00.000-08:00

Yash Raj Films titled its next film directed by Parmeet Sethi as Badmaash Company.

The film stars Shahid Kapoor and Anushka Sharma, who are certainly a pair to watch out for. They are supported by Meiyang Chang and Vir Das.Badmaash Company is an extraordinary story set in the 90's, where in middle class of Mumbai, four young friends get together to start a company. Their business is an instant hit because they find a way to beat the system. By doing all the wrong things... the right way!

MNIK' releases in 13 Mumbai halls to huge response

2010-02-13T01:47:00.000-08:00

Tremendous response marked the limited release of Shah Rukh Khan-starrer "My Name Is Khan" in 13 cinema halls here Friday even as the Shiv Sena continued its protest against the film across Maharashtra.

Shiv Sainiks attempted to disrupt the screening of the film at all the 13 cinema halls here despite heavy security arrangements. The film was originally scheduled to be released in 63 movie halls in this metropolis.

Most of the cinema owners backed down after threats from Shiv Sena which is protesting Shah Rukh's comments seeking inclusion of Pakistani cricketers in this year's edition of the Indian Premier league (IPL).

Police baton charged Sena supporters at K-Star mall in Chembur and pushed back activists attempting to barge inside Fun Republic mall in Andheri West to disrupt the screening of the film Friday afternoon.

The movie opened to a full house in Fun Republic shortly after noon though its first scheduled show at 9.30 a.m. was cancelled.In Dadar, former Lok Sabha speaker and ex-chief minister Manohar Joshi was prevented from disrupting the screening of the movie. Similar scenes were witnessed outside all 13 cinema halls where the film finally released Friday after days of uncertainty.In a bid to boost public confidence and save the government's image, Chief Minister Ashok Chavan, state Home Minister R.R. Patil and Minister of State for Home Ramesh Bagwe purchased tickets and watched the movie at INOX cinema in south Mumbai.INOX cinema also got a house full response to the film.Taking a cue, other Congress leaders like Textiles Minister Naseem Khan, Mumbai North MP Sanjay Nirupam, several legislators and Municipal corporaters from the Congress and the Republican Party of India watched the movie in different cinema halls here.Actor Kabir bedi and his daughter Pooja Bedi, several TV stars and other Bollywood personalities also followed suit.Chavan, Patil and Bahgwe appealed to the people to come out of their homes, watch the movie and not get cowed down by threats "from a few unruly elements".In Nagpur, Sena supporters burnt posters and vandalised Panchsheel Cinema where "My Name Is Khan" was being shown. Now the movie is scheduled to be screened there later in the day.Shiv Sainiks also demonstrated outside cinema halls in Nashik, Ratnagiri, Sangli and Dhule.No cinema hall in Pune and Aurangabad released the film.Shiv Sena called for a shutdown in several parts of Mumbai Friday in protest against the release of the film.

my name khan movie is a hit in Mumba

2010-02-13T01:45:00.000-08:00

Shiv Sena protests against Shah Rukh Khan, thousands of Mumbaikars Friday trooped out to watch "My Name Is Khan" and were clearly awestruck.Movie buffs were unanimous in their opinion that the Shiv Sena had erred in questioning Shah Rukh's credentials as an Indian and said the megastar was being wrongly targeted."We are with Shah Rukh Khan. What the Sena is doing is absolutely wrong. In fact, Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray should apologise to him for creating problems for him," said a woman who came out of the Fun Republic cinema in the afternoon.Making similar demands for an apology from the Sena for attempting to disrupt the movie, other patrons challenged the Sena's right to question Shah Rukh's "Indian" credentials."Who are they to question his patriotism? He is an Indian, will always remain an Indian and we are all with him. Goondaism and terrorism will not work in this country. The Sena people should also go and watch this movie and they will learn a few lessons from it," said a young man, Bipin Singh, at Nariman Point.The movie "MNIK" has evoked a huge response among Mumbaikars, cutting across religious lines, and many wanted to catch it during the three-day holiday weekend.Though many people were deterred by the Sena activists' violent tactics, they expressed their intention to watch the movie at the first available opportunity.Others also questioned the Sena's tactics of threatening theatres and viewers."We have elected a government and it will protect us. The Shiv Sena has no right to prevent anybody from going to watch the movie or they will be again rejected by the people," said Sharadbhai Parikh in suburban Malad who could not watch the movie despite having a confirmed booking for his entire family this afternoon at Broadway Cinema in Kandivli.An executive with a multinational pharma company, Sunita P., wondered why the Sena was bent upon inconveniencing people with its violent campaign on "non-issues" and damaging multiplexes and cinema halls."It is high time the government does something to stop the party's unruly behaviour and prove that democracy is stronger than mobocracy," she said.Media personality Dolly Thakore also said that the movie has a strong, positive message for the people."I came despite the Sena threats since we must show that we are not scared of that party, that people will raise their voice against it without getting cowed down by their threats," Thakore said.This is the second time in one week that the Shiv Sena appears to have earned public ire over its aggressive policies.Last week, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi took on the Sena with a brief four-hour trip to Mumbai during which he pitted divisive politics against the concept of national unity.

Delhi gives thumbs up to 'My Name Is Khan

2010-02-13T01:39:00.000-08:00

"My Name Is Khan" opened to packed houses in about 70 halls in the capital and its suburbs Friday. The hype around the film, thanks to the Shiv Sena's stand-off with superstar Shah Rukh Khan, attracted curious cinemagoers in droves to watch the film.According to police, except for an incident of vandalism in west Delhi, the movie was released without any problem in the rest of the National Capital Region.Some drunken youths vandalised Satyam Janak Place cinema hall in Janakpuri where the movie was to be screened. They were not affiliated to any political group, police said However, the hall sold 80 percent of the tickets for the first show, its officials said.PVR Priya saw 80-90 percent occupancy and long queues of people who wanted to see the film."I was not scared about security when I decided to go for the film. First of all, there has been no problem in Delhi and secondly, there is police all round," Purva Mehta, who came to watch the film at PVR Priya, told IANS.It reaffirmed the fact that Delhiites are eager to watch the Shah Rukh and Kajol starrer, Mehta said.Kaveri Jha, a housewife, said the hype around the film has led to more people going to watch it."After so much hype has been created, it becomes a point that we come and watch it. It's out of curiosity that maximum people are coming to watch the film," she said.The audiences hailed the film saying it was worth the effort."I loved the movie. Kajol and Shah Rukh are looking amazing together. It's been a while since we saw them together. Quite refreshing to see them and plus they have done a good job," said Shobhita Sen, 18.Theatre owners are happy over the audience response."The response has been very good. We are seeing around 90 percent occupancy in most shows. Police have been deployed so there is no security hassle as well," Amit Awasthi, manager (programming and operations) of Spice Cinemas, told IANS.

Jayendra Banerji, vice president (operations) of Satyam Cineplexes, said: "The first show at 10.15 a.m. got about 80 percent occupancy which is very decent."Set in post 9/11 US, "My Name Is Khan" released with over 2,000 prints worldwide Friday. It has been in the news after Shiv Sena activists decided to "ban" the film in Mumbai.The decision came soon after Shah Rukh commented that Pakistani cricketers should be allowed to take part in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Even though the film is still witnessing problems in Mumbai, Delhi's response has been heart-warming.Of the 70 cinema halls where the film was released, 10 are single screens in the NCR region and the owners are content with the response."We had opened our bookings for the film on Monday. I can't give you the percentage of people coming for the film, but I can say it is good," said an official from Sangam cinema hall in R.K. Puram.Officials at Lajpat Nagar's 3C's had a similar story to tell."We were expecting a good response for the film and it has been true. Almost all shows are going house full," said a representative at the theatre.Security measures have been taken care of with police deployment outside almost every theatre in the capital.

Bollywood Box Office Update: 'My Name is Khan' opens to a deafening response

2010-02-13T01:35:00.000-08:00

MY NAME IS KHAN. The film had a deafening start at practically every centre, with practically every multiplex generating 100% collections, while single screens in mass-dominated centres opened to a 70% - 80% response, which is very, very good.At a major theatre in Delhi, the audiences heralded the arrival of the film with band-bajaa and by bursting crackers. Outside a theatre in Patna, a moviegoer distributed roses to cinegoers who had come to watch the film.The reviews from critics who matter are already out [every reviewer has praised the film to the skies] and the audience feedback is overwhelming. In fact, at several places, there has been a mad scramble to book the tickets and the film is expected to set theatre, city and district records at most centres.In Mumbai, the multiplexes had decided to open shows at one property each. Hence, the multiplexes didn't perform the morning shows, but commenced screening from 12 noon onwards. The screenings began at Fun Republic [Andheri], Inox [Nariman Point], PVR [Goregaon], Fame [Malad], Big [Wadala] and Cinemax [Kandivali]. The multiplexes have now started screening the film at other properties.Despite the Mumbai release getting affected, the film should have a solid, record-breaking Friday, in terms of box-office numbers.

German fans made us forget about crisis back home

2010-02-13T01:32:00.000-08:00

Shah Rukh Khan's innumerable German fans slept all night on the street outside the superstar's hotel in Berlin in minus 10 degrees cold and snow and kept singing "Om Jai Jagadish Hare" and the "Jana Gana Mana" in the hope of a darshan, says Karan Johar, the director of "My Name is Khan"."When Shah Rukh went and met them, they went home warm. And so did we. For that short while, when I saw all that love come towards us, I forgot about the crisis (back in India over the movie)," Karan Johar told IANS in an interview here.

Karan Johar is in Berlin with Shah Rukh and Kajol for the red carpet premiere of "My Name is Khan" at the Berlinale Palast. The film is in the official selection of the Berlin International Film Festival.Karan Johar was in a dilemma being at Berlin during the crisis in Mumbai over the film's release."We had an old commitment to be at Berlin. It is a credible festival and a great platform," said Karan. "Also, both Shah Rukh and I believe that when you disappoint people who really love you, there's bad payback. So we came here for the unconditional love of our German and European fans - you would be hard put to find such love outside our continent. We felt that though it is critical in Mumbai, we will manage."We shall overcome - like in my films."Hollywood major Fox, which is distributing the film, is hoping it will also appeal to an American, non-NRI audience.

"I did not plan the film specially to appeal to the US, I just hope they are interested in an issue that is relevant," Karan explains. "I don't know if I've got the syntax right, as they are used to a different kind of film in America. 'My Name is Khan' is in a cinematic space between two worlds. It is neither a standard Bollywood film, nor a big American studio film."After making films on solid family values, Karan Johar is sticking his neck out with a love story layered with politics and religion."There were two reasons for this. I wanted to challenge myself," Johar told IANS. "Secondly, I've always been labelled as a bubblegum, candyfloss, NRI filmmaker all my life, so I was feeling defiant. It's not good, because a film should be for art, and not to prove a point. But I'd be naive if I said I wasn't trying to prove a point."As Bollywood films go international and absorb more elements of world cinema, are they in danger of losing traditional Bollywood elements?"No. Our biggest overseas audience will always be the diaspora. The rest is cherry on the cake. But let's say we never ran away from the crust."In "My Name is Khan", Shah Rukh Khan goes on a journey in America to meet the president of America, to tell him 'My Name is Khan and I am not a terrorist".

MNIK opens in 119 theatres across US to mixed reviews

2010-02-13T01:27:00.000-08:00

Shah Rukh Khan starrer "My Name Is Khan" opened in 119 theatres across North America with an enthusiastic response from the South Asian community and a mixed reception from the press."At its best 'My Name Is Khan,' set mainly in America, is an affecting fairy tale about the perils of goodness," said The New York Times as the mainstream US press also took note of the "a firestorm surrounded the film's release on Friday" in India."The message of 'My Name Is Khan,' an effective exercise in Bollywood high emotionalism, is less political than movie-ish: there are two kinds of people in the world, good and bad, a distinction more important than any other differences, like those between Hindus and Muslims," the influential US daily said in a review published Saturday."'Khan'is one of a handful of Hindi films ("New York," "Kurbaan") about Indians living in a paranoid, post-9/11 America, and there's something fascinating about looking at this country through a Bollywood lens, even when the story is a kind of fairy tale," it said."Bollywood and Politics Collide in a Red-Carpet Standoff," said the Times in a separate news report from Mumbai about the film's release amid controversy."The fight over the film and the politics of its star, who angered the Hindu right over his comments about Pakistanis playing on Indian cricket teams, is a glimpse of the bitterly parochial politics that still divide India's most international city," the daily said.The film "examines the life of a Muslim man from India, living in San Francisco, who embarks on a remarkable journey across the United States, inspiring people while inviting debate and creating an accidental revolution," said The Washington Post in a brief notice.The New York Post carried a review from Reuters in India describing it as "a very average, ordinary film that goes haywire. Racial biases, the aftermath of 9/11 and the war on terror are dicey topics to handle in real life, let alone on celluloid, and director Karan Johar oversimplifies the issues.""Any film that underestimates its audiences and dumbs down its content is letting itself in for a failure. "My Name Is Khan" is a huge disappointment," it said.The Wall Street Journal reported about the film's premier in "Mumbai Friday amid tight security and on a much-reduced number of screens after right-wing protesters earlier this week damaged cinemas slated to show the new movie byBollywood star Shah Rukh Khan."Washington Post and the Los Angeles too carried agency reports from Mumbai about "Bollywood film sparks militant Hindu rage in India."

Even unconventional and non-formulaic films can work

2010-02-13T01:23:00.000-08:00

She was and has been the quintessential young woman next door whom an intelligent man would love to take to his mother. Playing a quintessential 'bhartiya naari', whether belonging to the classical mould (Parineeta, Bhool Bhulaiyaa, Eklavya - The Royal Guard) or the modern times (Paa, Lage Raho Munnabhai, Salaam E Ishq) with a brain of her own, Vidya Balan boasts of consistency as her hallmark.In fact a closer study of her filmography pretty much confirms that after Katrina Kaif, she easily has the best success rate amongst leading ladies today with at least one hit a year ever since her debut effort Parineeta (2005). No wonder, when Vidya moves from her 'maa' performance in Paa to a 'woman with desires of her own' (in her own words) in Ishqiya, she makes viewers look forward to what's new that she has to offer in the New Year. More so because in the film she makes men as diverse as Naseeruddin Shah and Arshad Warsi dance to her tune.

"This is the best time to be working in movies", declares Vidya who now has two back to back successes in her kitty with Ishqiya following Paa, "Earlier when any filmmaker even thought of making a non-formulaic film, it used to be slotted as an art film there and then. Soon after it would be considered as economical unviable and unfortunately there wasn't much progress that any of such brilliant ideas made. I guess there was an attempt in the late 70s and the early 80s but then ever since NFDC has stopped making films, all doors seemed to be shut. However, in the current decade we are back to making different kind of films. Yes, it's a slow but a steady journey for sure. At least now with movies like Ishqiya, we have started pushing the envelope a little more."

At the beginning of 2009, it was Anurag Kashyap directed Dev D that followed a non-conformist approach towards cinema. Circa 2010 and the year has begun well with Ishqiya. It appears like finally there is some trend in the making here with mainstream actors not feeling shy about lending their support to films that break commercial mould. After Abhay Deol, it is nice to see Vidya Balan too joining the fray.

"I think what is actually happening is that even audiences want to see different things today. This is why when a few experiments worked earlier, people just lapped it up. Movies like Bheja Fry pretty much paved the way for quality films in controlled budget to start making an appearance because once these films worked, more and more people from the industry were further encouraged to present different ideas. It was obvious that even unconventional and non-formulaic films can work if packed, marketed, promoted and presented well. Slowly there are steps being taken due to which audiences too are accepting varied subjects with open arms. Thankfully, there are better budgets being offered as well in spite of increase in experimental cinema", Vidya goes on to share her 'gyaan' on the advent of new age cinema.a She can't be blamed though if she is sounding all excited about the advent of a different kind of cinema. After all, she is one of the rare female actors who has agreed to play the role of a mother in two films (Paa, Heyy Babyy), someone who has psychological disorder (Bhool Bhulaiyaa), a woman suffering from an ailment (Guru, Salaam E Ishq) and now a widow who doesn't mind getting into an intense romance with love (Naseeruddin Shah) and lust (Arshad Warsi) as the driving force. With the 'Jessica Lal' based film already in her kitty and things looking promising with Gulzar's next seemingly quite close, Vidya sure is getting all her calculations right.

Shilpa and Raj Kundra play cricket with school kids

2010-02-13T01:18:00.000-08:00

Shilpa Shetty Kundra and hubby Raj decide to play cricket with school kids?The recently married couple, who are also the co-owners of former IPL champions 'Rajasthan Royals', visited a girls' school in Ahmedabad to promote sports amongst the students there.The duo also launched a corporate hospitality programme for their team at a press conference and later headed to Mt. Carmel School for some promotional activities.The school staff and kids welcomed the couple by releasing 100 blue & white balloons, the signature colours of the 'Rajasthan Royals'. Shilpa felicitated some students who had performed outstandingly well in school with the 'Royal Blue' turban and distributed autographed t-shirts.The couple then formed 2 teams with the school girls and played a cricket match of 2 overs. Looks like the Ahmedabadis had a 'field' day with perhaps the most interesting match of the season!

SRK apologises for 'giving stress' to fans

2010-02-13T01:16:00.000-08:00

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has apologised to his fans for putting them through stress over the controversy clouding his film "My Name Is Khan"."I thank you all for this... apologise for giving stress over the last few days... and now truly know the meaning of being humbled. Lov you all so much," Shah Rukh posted on his twitter.Wishing his fans, he wrote: "...a big thanks. Happy Birthday... best of luck for exams... and happiness. I am humbled by this show of love and kindness. So don't know what else to say. Overwhelmed and promise will make India proud with my hard work," he wrote.The film, which tells the story of a Rizwan Khan (Shah Rukh) coping with events in post 9/11 America, released Friday with over 2,000 prints.It opened amid uncertainty in 63 theatres in Mumbai following protests by the Shiv Sena, which has opposed the film to protest Shah Rukh's comments favourig the inclusion of Pakistani cricketers in the Indian Premier League."Am I gushing too much and regretting too often. Well, let me. It's the first time I am a fan of my audience... a huge hug. You all are rockstars. Will you all give me your autographs and pose for pictures with me... will keep it in my heart forever. My name is fan and I am not a star... you are."I promise will only make wonderful films from now on forever. All the ones that missed the mark and didn't please you... ooops ...sorry again."

Media needs to be responsible

2010-02-11T03:29:00.000-08:00

Deepika Padukone is all geared up for her upcoming film 'Karthik Calling Karthik' and has her hands full with 'House Full' and 'Khele Hum Jee Jaan Se'. In this Bollywoodhungama.com exclusive with Content Head (Broadband) Faridoon Shahryar, she talks about her apprehension over working with Farhan Akhtar, the alleged link ups with him and the occupational hazards of acting.

Shah Rukh and I are connected to each other

2010-02-11T03:25:00.000-08:00

"My Name Is Khan" is going through a storm. However, in the midst of it all, Shah Rukh Khan and Karan Johar are standing by each other. The director strongly believes that they are connected to each other more as brothers than being business partners."'My Name Is Khan' is a film which is a strong emotional connect for both Shah Rukh and I. He and I co-producing the film has nothing to do with money," said Karan, whose Dharma Productions has made the film in collaboration with Shah Rukh Khan's Red Chillies Entertainment."We are too connected to each other and when it comes to a family, you don't question their close association. Do you question someone who is working with his brother in one assignment after another? Shah Rukh and I may be having different surnames but that doesn't take away from the strong sense of brotherhood that we both carry," he added.What makes him supremely confident about his life-long relationship with Shah Rukh? Specially when Farah Khan had to move from Shah Rukh to Akshay Kumar for "Tees Maar Khan"."See, its not just the matter of directing a film which would have him as an actor. Tomorrow, I may not be directing a film with him but the fact is that both of us will always be a part of each other's production house. In some way or another, in whatever capacity, we would be working with each other," said Karan.Releasing Friday, the film also stars Kajol and is set in the post 9/11 US.Clarifying yet another misconception about the film, Karan says "My Name Is Khan" is not an issue-based film."Please let me set the record straight that 'My Name Is Khan' is not an issue based film. Instead it's a human drama about a couple. The film will make you smile and result in tears in your eyes. It's a film which connects with you and is totally emotionally based."He also clarifies on the religious connotation saying: "By no means am I aspiring to take forward the baton of an issue. Instead I am just using it as a part of the narrative. The film doesn't have any religious or spiritual undertone to it but basically sends across the message of humanity, so let's watch the film for its worth."

"I'm scared of receiving a call from myself"

2010-02-11T03:02:00.000-08:00

I recall the day when Deepika Padukone walked the red carpet for the first time. It was ice cold outside the Empire Leicester Square. Om Shanti Om had its world premiere in London. Padukone was ready to paint the town red, and she did when she arrived in her beautiful red dress. Uff...that ada of hers I tell you! Anyway...to the current day. She is growing taller with every film of hers. Commercially speaking, you can't even get through her now-a-days. She is keeping so busy that not even the paparazzi can trace her. I mean, we got to give it to the lady...she is fast. Wearing that nine-acre smile all day long and still to not look fake is quite something. So we decided to call her the original babe of Bollywood as she embodies all the elements of originality. UK's Harrow Observer columnist and Bollywood Hungama's London correspondent had a quick word or two with the tinsel town's tallest beauty Deepika Padukone on her first thriller, new energies, the Kajra Re step, Farhan Akhtar and why after all the success, she still feels unsatisfied.How spooky can a thriller like Karthik Calling Karthik get Well, the film is a thriller and it can get very spooky, all the more so, because I've never been a part of any thriller so far.What sort of energy and newness do new comers like you and Farhan bring to the screen We both have complimented each other and have learnt from each other so much during the making of Karthik Calling Karthik. We both draw something from each others performances. And that was the same with all my co-stars, whether it was Shah Rukh or Ranbir.Was your Kajra Re step and the many others you've done impromptu Absolutely yes. The steps that I do in the song 'Uff Teri Ada' were completely impromptu. My director Vijay Lalwani said that it does look like a fun song and doesn't look choreographed. He thought that we were having a ball of a time.Deepika Padukone Every young actress entering Bollywood wants to become the next Deepika Padukone. You're being touted as the next big thing in the industry. Yes, it took me just two years to come this far but there was a struggle of almost ten years into it I guess. I'm extremely happy but I am also not completely satisfied with my achievements. I still think I have a lot left to achieve and prove. My hard work has paid off to some extent and I have reached the level that I wanted to and hopefully will continue doing the same kind of work to reach higher levels.Have you ever received any call from yourself Nope! I am quite scared of these things and I hope it doesn't. So sorry. No call from Deepika Padukone will be answeredProducers and directors have targeted you as a completely commercial entity because you give hit films. You know, I don't know about me being a commercial entity. I'm not really planning the kind of films that I want to do. For me, as long as it excites me, I do it. Then when I do it, it becomes a hit at the box office followed by critical acclaim. As long as that is working for me and I am enjoying the kind of roles I'm being offered, I'm not complaining.What does the media not know about Farhan Akhtar That he has a great sense of humour. But I'm sure everyone knows that. So I don't know how well or not well the media knows him. He is meticulous and very proper. Everything has to be in order for Farhan or else he gets upset.

"Tabu is a scintillating actor; what a brilliant performer she is"

2010-02-11T02:58:00.000-08:00

If you meet Sharman Joshi in person, you'd be left questioning - Why so Serious? Then you might have a laugh or two about how funny he is off screen. Sharman is a surprisingly simple, laid back and a straightforward person to talk to. So when asked whether Toh Baat Pakki will manage to be a big success at the box office, the actor got a bit unsettled. Unlike most actors who have a great comic sense and the ones who always seem "on" during an interview, Joshi felt no need to joke around or entertain with his answers. He was quite comfortable in being honest. What an actor! Now you can take this pun however you want, but we for sure believe that he is a great find in our larger than life film industry. UK's Harrow Observer columnist and Bollywood Hungama's London correspondent met Sharman Joshi who is about to get married on February 12...or is he? Whatever the results, we sure are going to be a witness to this lavish wedding. Let the groom take on from here.

You are married, so how well did you associate yourself to the film…
I associated myself in a way that I made the right decision on screen and off screen (laughs). Seriously, it's a film set in a small town on how an elder sister helps her younger sister to find a perfect match and how things go mismatch after the elder sister gives hope to not just one, but two boys for her sisters' marriage. It's a light hearted comedy.

How tough is it for a film like Toh Baat Pakki in times where big films with bigger budgets and the biggest stars are getting hyped?
No film in my opinion is big or small, whether it is the star cast or the director or the producer. A film is big or small only after the audiences see it. What you're asking is very speculative. We've made this film because we completely believe in it and we're sure that the audiences have something worth their time and enjoy themselves.

Working with Tabu is like working with Aamir Khan. She is the best of the best, isn't it?
Yes she is. Tabu is a scintillating actor. What a brilliant performer she is! I was a little tentative in figuring out how to break the ice with her during the first few days of the shoot. But she is an extremely friendly and a down to earth kind of a person. We got along very well, enjoyed our lunches on the sets, worked hard and post pack up we used to get together in each others room for more filmy gupshups. Toh Baat Pakki was a unique experience all together.

Sharman Joshi Nobody talks about the debutant directors now-a-days unless they make a film with big stars.
Kedar Shinde, the director of Toh Baat Pakki is a big name himself in Marathi stage. An actor's job is limited in a certain sense. Film, is a director's and a scriptwriter's medium. It's how they see the film. I am hoping that Kedar is happy with the work I've done in the film. We both are from theatre background and have seen each others work. We've also worked with each other on stage. So when I got to know Kedar was directing this film, I jumped on to it knowing that he will handle the affairs pretty well.

Industry has now become a one week wonder. Openings are more crucial than how the film will fare at the box office.
We aren't going through the worst phase. Yes, we were going through a bad phase last year but things are becoming better. Yes, openings have become vital only to gauge whether the audiences will accept a certain kind of cinema or not. When a good film is made, there are audiences who'll go and watch. 3 Idiots had its audiences. The potential of our films is tremendous. Audiences are prepared for more or beyond and the intellect they possess, which we assume, is far less. But that's not right. They are far more progressive then we are. Agreed, that Hollywood's success rate is much better than Bollywood but that's the truth. We make so many films that the time gap between two films is hardly there, and then the audiences split.

Are you careful in signing films now as you're a part of two cult films - Rang De Basanti and 3 Idiots. Are you in a different league all together?
My mantra is pretty much the same from the days I started acting. I do the kind of films that challenge me. First comes, the script and then the actor. That's the path I follow. I cannot credit myself alone for being in a film which is as successful as a Rang De Basanti or 3 Idiots is because there are so many factors that go into making a cult film. Those cannot necessarily be acting. But what you must do is to be a part of the film that excites you and take up the role of a lifetime.

Sharman Joshi Which is your next release?
There is a film called Allah Ke Bandey which is a redemption drama. It has Farooq Sheikh, Naseeruddin Shah, Atul Kulkarni as the principal cast and my director, Mr Farooq Kabir and myself are playing the lead roles. It's about two boys from the slums of Mumbai and their life story. It's a hard core drama with part real life story.

But would you ever imagine Sharman Joshi not smile?
(Laughs) Why do you say that? I did a film called Raqeeb which wasn't very successful. It was a serious thriller drama. Yes, I have been synonymous with light hearted comedy but I am not a comedian. I hate being tagged as an actor. I've been playing parts which are different from what I'm generally associated with. It's again exciting and challenging...not to smile

"You can't compare MNIK with 3 Idiots"

2010-02-11T02:55:00.000-08:00

My Name Is Khan is just a few hours away from release and the obvious question that comes to mind is around the box office outcome of the film. With 3 Idiots setting such high standards at the box office and breaking the ceiling, doesn't it put an additional pressure on MNIK to perform further well It seems like this was the only ammunition that was waiting to find a way on the battlefield because Karan gets all fired up at this juncture. "I don't know why write-ups around one film taking a bigger opening than another or whether MNIK would be able to reach the highest slot when it comes box office openings keep appearing without any rhyme or reason. The kind of films that we are seeing today are all different from each other. Veer was different from 3 Idiots, just like My Name Is Khan is different from Veer. You can't be comparing a Guzaarish with a Kites. Or you can't be picking up a Raajneeti and start drawing comparisons with 3 Idiots. This is why I don't like the entire comparing business because all films are different from each other."

Calming down, he further goes on to extend his logic around difference in expectations that one must have when looking at two major films, "First and foremost we should be cognizant of the fact that comparing two entities never helps. A film should be allowed to breathe in the way it deserves to. Yes, now if only I would have made a film in a campus with students as my heroes then perhaps I may have compared it with 3 Idiots. But then just like you could never compare a Lagaan with a Dil Chahta Hai, similarly you can't ever compare MNIK with 3 Idiots or any other film."Meanwhile, Karan is happy to be following the 'mantra' of making quality films without worrying much about their blockbuster fate."At Dharma Productions, we have great vibes amongst us", says Karan, "Everyone is quite passionate about filmmaking and we believe that we should always make films that we are proud of. Commercial success is important but not at the expense of something that would make us cringe later."No wonder, most of the first time filmmakers working with Karan are happy to be working in an environment that challenges as well as motivates them to make something worth remembering."I never ask my directors to give me a film that would fetch me 80, 100 or 120 crores. Once you do that, you only end up putting pressure on the poor guy. Instead, I want them to focus entirely on the subject in front of them and leave the box office in the hands of audiences. This is what Ayan Mukerjee did with Wake Up Sid and look how he passed with flying colours both critically and commercially. Similar was the case with Rensil D'Souza who ensured that there is definite quality component to Kurbaan", concludes Karan with a tone of appreciation.

Freida Pinto oozes out Valentine oomph on Elle cover

2010-02-11T02:50:00.000-08:00

She came, she saw, she made others see her and then... she conquered and how! Well, the 'she' in question is none other than Freida Pinto, the girl who made every Indian proud courtesy her million-dollar performance in the Oscar winning film Slumdog Millionaire.Well, despite the fact that the whole world is waiting with bated breath for her confession regarding her 'status' (single or otherwise), that has not stopped this PYT from inspiring others to love, love and love. And what better time it could be than the season of Love... when Love is in the air. Yes, you guessed it right. She is indeed the Valentine's Brand Ambassador... on the cover of the latest edition of Elle. Full marks to the photog for capturing this beauty like never before! In this issue, Freida talks everything from dime to a dozen, which includes brands, films, her life etc. Talking about brands, this gorgeous lady says, "Chanel has always been an effortless brand- their simple, clean cuts will have you look super fashionable. Karl (Lagerfeld) has been great. If I ever need something, he will make it happen." And about her personal life she opines in her own words that, "I realized that I'd gone straight from the craziness of Slumdog into my films, so, this is my time to relax."All this and mush, mush more...in the latest edition of Elle. Buy it as every day is not a Valentines Day does not fall! What say Freida!

Imran Khan makes debut in Coke ad

2010-02-11T02:47:00.000-08:00

Bollywood actor Imran Khan, who has stayed away from the endorsement segment, will now be seen in the new Coca-Cola advertisement as its brand ambassador."This is actually the first and the only endorsement I have signed over a year and a half since I have joined the film industry. This was the only endorsement that I wanted to sign before they ever came to me," said Imran."I think Aamir has been endorsing Coke for 10 years now and ever since I was a kid, I used to watch his ads. I have always considered Coca-Cola to be synonymous with refreshment and happiness. I am sure everyone will find the new Coca-Cola communication extremely engaging," he addedThe new campaign also features Kalki Koechlin, star of the movie "Dev D".Talking about the concept of the ad, Imran said: "The entire concept of the film is about how Coke breaks the ice between two characters who might not have been together, if Coke wasn't there."What is really interesting in the ad is that we have used an imaginary bottle."The new campaign has been conceptualised by the creative team of McCann Erickson.The ad, directed by Dibakar Banerjee, who has made award winning feature films like "Khosla Ka Ghosla" and "Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye!", is set to be rolled out in the last week of February.

Akshay continues to do dangerous stunts, this time for Action Replay

2010-02-11T02:45:00.000-08:00

The day after Akshay landed in Mumbai after his back treatment he was doing some of the most dangerous stunts affordable to a star. Before he left for his back treatment, Akshay Kumar was unsure if he could ever return to normal health-related activities that he liked, let alone action sequences. In fact, Vipul Shah's action-laden climax for Action Replayy which was to be shot after Akshay's return, was seriously jeopardized. But after the hydro- therapy that he underwent in Germany last week, Akshay Kumar returned to work, more confident than ever before, ready and eager to shoot heart-stopping stunts for Action Replayy. When Vipul offered to change the climax, Akshay laughed and told him to stick to the original plan.Not only was Akshay seen hanging from cables doing stunts and flying through the air, he even cajoled his co-star Kirron Kher to try the aerial stunts. Speaking from Manori where director Vipul Shah shot Akshay's action sequences with action direct Allan Amin immediately after the actor's return from Germany, the director confided, "It's true we were very unsure about what shape Akshay's back would be in once he returned from his hydro treatment. The climax of Action Replayy required very complex and strenuous stunts on wire-cables. I offered to change the climax and do away with the cable stunts. After all, those are tough even for actors with normal healthy backs. Akshay told me to wait until his return before taking a final call."

The actor's recovery post his treatment has been far quicker and complete than imagined. Vipul just can't stop gawking at the actor's recovery level. "Why just me? The entire cast including Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Om Puri, Rajpal Yadav and others just can't believe Akshay's capacity to bounce back on his feet. Here we were thinking of doing away the cable stunts and somehow managing the climactic action without the planned aerial shots. But Akshay has been wired and suspended midair for almost a week now. Cable stunts are really tough on the back. But Akshay was super-confident on his return."Akshay was so kicked by the idea of starting afresh on his newly-repaired back that he even encouraged Kirron Kher to join him on the cables in Manori.Says Vipul, "A shot required her to join Akshay in the air. Kirronji was at first hesitant. But we ensured her it was fully safe to be suspended with cables. Akshay is so charged and enthusiastic, he will soon have the whole cast and crew on cables. We are shooting funny action sequences. But hanging midair from thousands of feet is as dangerous whether done for fun or otherwise."Akshay who sounded discernibly pained before his restorative trip to Germany is raring to go. "I'm back on my feet and doing action scenes for Vipul's film. The treatment worked fully and I have completely recovered."Apparently, Akshay has recommended the hydro-treatment to Sunny Deol who suffers a chronic back problem and has undergone to major surgeries to repair his back. For Akshay, surgery was never an option, even when his back had given way a decade back and he was laid up for six months.

Kings XI Punjab not sold: Preity, Hero Group

2010-02-11T02:42:00.000-08:00

he Hero Group has not acquired Kings XI Punjab, one of the eight franchisees of the Indian Premier League (IPL) T20 cricket tournament, the company as well as Preity Zinta, the co-owner of the team, clarified Wednesday."Hi everyone! Just want to clarify that we have not sold the team to Hero Honda! Another example of how the media can get it all wrong," Preity posted on her Twitter page Wednesday following TV channel reports that the team had been bought over."The reports are absolutely baseless. Neither has the group acquired Kings XI nor was it in talks for such an acquisition," a spokesperson for the Hero Group told IANS in the capital.Kings XI Punjab is co-owned by actor Preity and industrialists Ness Wadia, Karan Paul, and Mohit and Gaurav Burman. Kings XI Punjab is led by Kumar Sangakkara, while Tom Moody is the coach."It is not true -- totally baseless. We have not sold Kings XI Punjab to anyone. These are just speculations. We have no information regarding this," added Anil Srivatsa, the chief executive of the franchisee, said reacting to reports."I don't know from where this news has emerged. We are also verifying from where these reports have come," Srivatsa told IANS in Chandigarh.Hero Honda also re-affirmed its association with the IPL and Delhi Daredevils, another franchisee."Hero Honda's association with IPL as an associate sponsor and the main team sponsor of Delhi Daredevils team remain unchanged," it said in a statement.The $3.5-billion Hero Group, which started operations as a small component company for the bicycle industry more than 50 years ago, is the largest manufacturer of two-wheelers in the world today and has a 21-year-old collaboration with Honda of Japan.The group is a sponsor of several major sporting events, including a high-profile golf tournament and has set up the Hero Indian Sports Academy to recognise, build and award outstanding talent within the country.The third edition of the IPL begins March 12 with holders Deccan Chargers taking on Kolkata Knight Riders in Mumbai.

"I have a space for a National Award in my library" - Shahrukh Khan

2010-02-11T02:39:00.000-08:00

"We are all together in this. I have the support of my friends. Hopefully it will get resolved without any of us having to do anything untowardly," said Shahrukh Khan about the continued tension created by political groups on the release of My Name Is Khan. "It is not about gloating over being a brave person or a coward or anything. It is just a basic normal stance that I have and that's what I would like it to remain, Inshallah," Khan added while addressing the media at a Press Conference at the majestic Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi today prior to the world premiere of My Name Is Khan. Also present at the occasion were Kajol, Karan Johar and Fox Star Studios CEO Vijay Singh.On being asked why Abu Dhabi was chosen as the venue for the world premiere of MNIK, Vijay Singh said, "Middle East's revenue contribution is 25% of the international revenues. This is a very important market for us. The reason why we are doing our world Premiere here is because of the theme of the film, the importance of Abu Dhabi and this region we believe has a lot of potential."Shahrukh has been very active on Twitter and has a massive following. It is amazing how foreigners who don't even understand Hindi but yet they love him so much. What does he have to tell such fans? "I asked some people since you don't understand the language how come you like Indian films, especially my friends in Germany where we are headed tonight. A wonderfully beautiful lady I was chatting with in the night the other day said we have a button for everything for cars, escalators, for toasters, for microwaves but we didn't have a button for crying and your films provide us a button for crying. All the guys who write to me on twitter, I'd say I love you."On being asked as a producer what was the contribution Karan Johar was expecting from the lucrative Mumbai territory, Karan simply said, "Main bas dil se filmen banata hoon percentage agar mujhe pata chal jaaye to main kuch aur hota." Vijay Singh set the things in perspective by saying, "My Name Is Khan is going to be the widest release that any Bollywood film has had. A typical big Bollywood film comes with 350 prints in the international market. We are releasing 500-600 prints. The question of what is Mumbai's contribution is not important. This film is being released over a period of 4-5 months across the world in a phased manner. We are releasing in 40 countries in the first phase and another 25 in phase two."Shahrukh was asked if he was expecting a National Award for this film and he said, "Acting is a higher spiritual experience for me. I would like to believe Khan has been a higher spiritual experience. Whether I get any award for this or not I think I will be evolved and rewarded anyways in my heart, mind and soul. I have a space in my library for a National Award. And I promise you before I finish I'll keep one there or steal one."On the final note let's find out what Shahrukh had to say to everyone who has been trying to cash in on the present controversy: "I hope everything turns out well. I live on hope. And better sense prevails for everyone and hopefully the film will release and lots of people will watch it and everyone will like it."

'Item' Rakhi Turns

2010-02-10T03:50:00.000-08:00

Rakhi Sawant, the irrepressible spitfire: is firmly in… business. Ah, it's not the saucy 'item number' bit, though.After kickstarting a spa in suburban Mumbai, Senorita Sawant has purchased a 3000 sq feet plot too where she intends setting up a post production studio. Slated to be christened 'RS', the svelte entrepreneur asserts that it will have "all the state of the art equipment."Disclosing her plans to the media tribe, Sawant says, "It will have everything from a dubbing studio to a special effects division. I'm getting technology from abroad, coz' I have always wanted the best."Explaining her foray into the business bracket, sexy Sawant reveals, "I come from a background where people generally lack ambition and are used to leading a hand to mouth existence. I always dreamt of making it big and having my own enterprise. Venturing into business is just an extension of my own personality."

Las Vegas Overpowers Ranbir, Priyanka chopra

2010-02-10T03:32:00.000-08:00

The new hotties are on a gambling spree. And at Las Vegas, no less. Ranbir Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra have now come out of the closet! Er, rinse your thoughts, they're… no longer closet gamblers, that is.arently, the perky duo ('Anjaana Anjaani') have the devil's own luck at the tables and slot machines. Director Siddharth Anand and choreographer Ahmed Khan have also shown a remarkable proclivity for the risk, making it a quartet of cine gamblers.Producer Sajid Nadiadwala, though, hasn't forgotten to capitalise on this craze. He's feistily cannned some impromptu scenes which show his sexy leads gambling away to glory. Besides, B town has never been to Las Vegas, before

Ash Ages, Poses For 250 Fotos

2010-02-10T03:26:00.000-08:00

She garnered quite a bit of action for 'Action Replayy'. Director Vipul Shah wanted to film an integral part of 'Action Replayy' in which Aishwarya Rai Bachchan was to sport the "aged look" for the flick. And Shah was expressly clear that he didn't want the media or eager shoppers to have a sneak peek at Ash.Initially, Shah intended to cordon off the entire mall in order to guard Ash's 'look'. The considerate Ash, though, opined that he should only segregate the mall section they were shooting in.As the shoot progressed, and word got around, fans and admirers trooped into the mall. Ash covered her visage completely, in between shots. And once the scenes were filmed satisfactorily… a stunning Ash emerged to click keepsake snaps with her throng of fans.Reportedly, lucky fans were shot in close to 250 pics with "the most beautiful woman in the world."

Katrina makes Bhojpuri

2010-02-09T22:27:00.000-08:00

Filmmaker Prakash Jha launched TV channel Morya last week with a lot of glitz and glamour. His Raajneeti actors, katrina kafi Arjun Rampal, Manoj Bajpai and were present for the launch in Patna along with Bhojpuri stars Ravi Kishan and Manoj Tiwari. Jha requested Katrina to speak in Bhojpuri, the local language. A source said, “Considering that Katrina speaks Hindi with difficulty, she had goose bumps when she was asked to speak in Bhojpuri. However, Jha gave her three tutors - Manoj Tiwari, Ravi Kishan and Manoj Bajpai - all of whom can speak the language with great ease. Katrina was willing to learn. However, they could manage to teach her only one line as it was difficult for her to understand.” Confirming the incident, Manoj Tiwari said, “It was quite funny. Initially, Katrina was very excited about it, so the three of us (Ravi Kishan, Manoj Bajpai and him) coached her to address the crowd with ‘Ka haal ba Patna’. She diligently wrote it down on a piece of paper and mugged it However, instead of saying ‘haal ba’, she kept on repeating ‘halba’, which sounded like ‘halwa’. Bajpai and Ravi Kishan burst out laughing at this and kept pulling her leg. That’s when we explained to her the difference between halwa, a sweet and ‘haal ba’, meaning how are you. Although Katrina took time to learn the line, she repeated it quite confidently on the dais. The crowd went berserk on hearing her. In fact we were all impressed with Katrina’s determination and persistence.”

'Paa' is paramount. But Amitabh Bachchan

2010-02-09T01:06:00.000-08:00

'Paa' is paramount. But Amitabh Bachchan doesn't rest on past laurels. 'Rann', Ram Gopal Varma's trenchant take on the media spotlights Bachchan Senior in yet another remarkable role

Amitabh Bachchan is a wee bit tired. And a lot more exasperated! Should be, considering the repetitive and numerous assurances that he's been issuing to media sorts asserting that, "RGV's film is not about media bashing!"

Enacting a channel head honcho Vijay Harshvardhan Malik in the flick, Bachchan is reported to be in fine form. The rich baritone, classy attire, and topline histrionics have served to flesh out yet another memorable persona on celluloid. Bachchan, though, is swift to credit Varma for "constantly giving me film characters that excite me." Over to the reigning icon of Indian cinema…..

How would you define Vijay Harshvardhan Malik of 'Rann' in your own words?

Upright, honest and erudite. A person respected not just in the trade but all over. His integrity and his voice is the hallmark of the channel he owns and runs.

Is it true that your character has been patterned heavily along the lines of Dr. Prannoy Roy of NDTV ?

Did you agree to do this volatile subject because Ram Gopal Varma was the director? Would you have agreed to do 'Rann' had it been helmed by a new or unknown director?

It is not a volatile subject to start with and I would work for the story and the role and the person who would make it irrespective of who or what their standing would be.

To flesh out Malik onscreen, did you adopt certain mannerisms from real life channel personnel on your own?

No I did not. It was not required.

Having experienced the highs and lows of the media at length and at close quarters, did you identify with the incidents shown in 'Rann'. Reportedly, viewers will be able to easily identify with many of the characters shown in the film, since they're heavily borrowed from real life….

There are no such incidents that I could identify with. The story is inspired and fictional.

What really is Ram Gopal Varma's strongpoint as a director?

His passion and understanding of cinema.

In 'Sarkar' and 'Sarkar Raj', you had your illustrious son as a co star in Varma's films. Pity, he isn't in 'Rann'. Wouldn't you have liked Varma to cast him too in his path breaking film?

If there was a role for him and if RGV felt he was needed in it he would have been cast. There are no conditions that I impose when I accept a film.

Did you ever discuss having Abhishek cast in one of the pivotal roles in 'Rann'?

Reportedly, you've delivered a 13 minute long sequence in one perfect take for 'Rann.' Are such lengthy scenes a cakewalk for an actor of your calibre or do you still find them strenuous?

Nothing is ever a cake walk in life. Everyday is a struggle.

Channel wars, TRPs, truths, lies …. 'Rann' has an incendiary range. Ultimately, what is the film saying through your character?

That there will be poetic justice in 2hrs and 10 mins.

You've clarified that 'Rann' is not a media bashing movie and that you've been really proud to have done it….

Yes I have ….

Journalists are suspicious and speculation over 'Rann' is red hot, especially after that misleading video footage where a number of common people spoke against the media ….

Is that a question or a statement …?

After the 'Angry Young Man' of 'Deewar' … we can now look forward to the 'Angry Aged Man' of 'Rann'! Do you think it's likely to be the new 'title' that the Fourth Estate is likely to confer upon you?

Very unlikely.

Which is your favourite scene in 'Rann' and why would you chose it?

There are several. Difficult and unethical to narrate them till the film is released.

Most actors read their lines in Hinglish, but you prefer to read them in Hindi. Is it easier to make those words your own in dialogues coz'the films are in Hindi and your're supremely comfortable with the language?

I only know how to read a language I know in the way it is written.

What do you think your fans will take back from the film after they watch 'Rann'?

An intense sincere effort in portraying what could possibly be the dilemma's faced by an electronic channel.

You've taken a great love for blogging. Is it just fawning praise from admirers or has there been sensible criticism too from fans?

A bit of both.

Seems an oddity, "the new child sensation of the year" in 'Paa' goes on to bag 'Lifetime Achievement Awards!" Your take, please ….

Since the 'child sensation of the year' passed away by the end of the film, I guess the award was not too misplaced at all.

Would you consider directing a film under your own banner?

I do not know direction.

With Abhishek emerging as an actor in his own right, what is the kind of advice that you would like to give him today ….

Keep on working.

Simple To Seductive Vidya Balan,

2010-02-09T01:02:00.000-08:00

Vidya Balan didn't buckle under the label of being a "jinxed actress," with many of her South productions coming unstuck. Rather, she bided her time with music videos and ad films… till 'Parineeta' came along. Today, she's beaming with those countless laurels crowding her way for 'Paa'. And with 'Ishqiya', she's sure to shock the socks off audiences….

She's been the giggly, goody two shoes sort on celluloid. A charmingly simple child woman ('Parineeta'), glam gal ('Heyy Babyy'), high on Gandhigiri ('Lage Raho Munna Bhai') and tall on empathy ('Paa'), Vidya Balan has traversed her cinematic route with finesse, confirming her credentials as a performer of merit. But goodness gracious… good just got supremely boring. And Vidya turned vile with a vengeance!

Case in point: 'Ishqiya', which spotlights Balan in a stunningly different avatar… mouthing expletives, gulping booze, seducing two unsuspecting males and giving devious a new meaning.

The actress, who desires to choose roles that are deliberately diverse from one another, declares candidly, "I am almost schizophrenic." Excerpts from a free wheeling chat with the vivacious actress….

How would you describe Krishna Varma of Ishqiya? You've got this interesting dialogue in the film which goes,' Ishq mein sab bewaja hota hain….

Ishq mein sab bewaja hota hai!...haan hota hai! (laughs). In love you do things for no rhyme or reason. You just do it for the sake of love. That's what 'Ishqiya' is all about. It's about how three people who find love and how love takes them on separate paths. And yet, the path of love is just one. It's the entire trip of love that 'Ishqiya' is all about. Krishna, my character in the film is an extremely passionate woman. She loves as passionately as she hates when she is conned. Krishna does not take things lying down. She is very aggressive with a certain sexual aggression in her. She is unapologetic about sexuality and uses it to her advantage. I think Krishna is truly today's progressive woman who has the reins of her life in her own hands. She is in complete control and that's what I liked about the character. And through the film you are only trying to figure out what she is thinking, what she's doing and you don't understand her like any other woman.

You have worked with Arshad Warsi earlier in Lage RahoMunnbhai, while you're working for the first time with Naseeruddin Shah in this film. How would you describe the experience?

I may have worked with Arshad Warsi before, but we've not really shared screen space in 'Lage Raho Munnabhai'. He is, by far, one of our most versatile actors and is fairly under utilised. I hope people see him in a new light after 'Ishqiya' and put him to far better use as an actor. And about Naseersaab, what can I say that has not been said before? He is an institution. It was a pleasure to be working with him. What I really admire about Naseerbhai is that here there is a certain pressure to tow the line, to be a certain way. And although he's been here in Hindi films for about 25 to 30 years, or more, he is who he is and nothing ever changes that! Surely, he is this acclaimed actor but he does not behave in a manner that you would expect him to. In our industry, they are constantly trying to make you fit into a certain mould and he has resisted that. I think that's what I most admire about him.

What's your take on director Abhishek Chaubey who debuts with Ishqiya?

He's extremely intelligent, well read and focused, and so he knows how to put that knowledge to use. He knows what his story is and how he wants to tell it. Though he was open to suggestions, he was extremely clear on what he wanted. So that helps and it's admirable, especially when it is a first time director. Also, Abhishek Chaubey is a great people's person and 50 per cent of a director's job is to reap people's management. He's such a simple and unassuming person on the sets that everyone did not mind going that extra mile or working for a few hours more without a break, because they all loved him so much. Of course, he's very talented and I'm sure that he will go a long way. My wishes for him, though, are that he always remains the fine person that he is. I think that it will take him even further.

The phrase 'Chuttiyam Sulphate' has managed to create a rage. What was your reaction and did you ever expect that it would catch the fancy of people?

Honestly, I thought it was damn cool! (laughs). I know that the phrase is often used in the North. Krishna is basically a rough and aggressive woman who would use that kind of language. So it was not really a surprise for me that she spoke like that. As Vidya, I was a little uncomfortable initially, but as Krishna it came very naturally. And I knew that people would catch on to it in no time. Trust me, after watching the promos everyone seems to think that it is really the 'catch phrase of the decade'.

You have always managed to essay different kind of roles….right from Lolita of Parineeta to the recent Vidya Kumari of Paa and now Krishna Varma of Ishqiya and yet managed to get critical acclaim. Is it a deliberate attempt to try and get into different roles, which are non glamourous, yet are performance –oriented? What kind of challenges do you face while essaying such diverse characters?

I am really fortunate that I started my career with a film like 'Parineeta' and a character like Lolita that was so well textured and layered. It was an incredible role for a first film and that kind of set a precedent. My directors and the industry have shown great faith in me and I feel extremely grateful for the kind of work that I've got. There is a deliberate attempt to try and do something new every time because I have not set any limits for myself as an actor. I am almost schizophrenic. I want to be inhabiting different worlds, being different people at different points in time. So the more diverse it gets, the better it is for me. But I must add that Krishna is most different from any character that I have done so far. And I'm extremely thrilled to have got a chance to play her.

'I'm A Mad And Hungry Actor'

2010-02-09T01:01:00.000-08:00

Thirty years in the business of histrionics has not stemmed his greed for meaty roles. Anil Kapoor, confessedly, can never have enough of good cinema. 'Slumdog Millionaire' earned him global recognition and truckloads of acclaim. Now, the actor is readying to showcase his acting skills and production ventures with worthwhile movies in the pipelineHe's risen steadily from being "that new boy" in 'Shakti' who enacted Amitabh Bachchan's son and Dilip Kumar's grandson to earning the global spotlight for 'Slumdog Millionaire'. Anil Kapoor has traversed the path of cinema with dedication and finesse. Today, he's unanimously cited among the most outstanding actors of Indian cinema.

In a career spanning more than three decades, the actor has amply proved his calibre, passed every litmus test and emerged victorious. The passion to excel has made Kapoor synonymous with quality, but watch him at work preparing for the most insignificant scene and he gives the impression of being a newcomer who's taking his first prudent steps in the cine industry. It is this attitude of his, of being a dedicated and devoted student that has made him an actor in his own class today.Anil has also propogated a new way to ensure top class ventures in Hindi cinema by turning producer.'Gandhi , My Father' produced under his own banner, Anil Kapoor Productions, had earned international acclaim for the producer and actor. On the anvil are three big flicks, of which 'No Problem' with Sanjay Dutt, Ajay Devgn, Sushmita Sen and Kangana Ranaut is already on the floors. Besides, AK has also completed '24', a major TV serial in the West. Excerpts from a chat with the commendable actorLooking back, would you say that you were truly pleased with your role in Danny Boyle's 'Slumdog Millionaire I'd say, I was happy and not very happy too. I was happy because I have received the kind of international exposure which I had always wanted. The big time success of the film has given me a chance to show the world and tell them what kind of an actor I was. I was excited about the manner in which critics, the world over, had praised my performance. It was a great experience working with a director like Danny about whom I had heard so much. I'd already been introduced to his work much before I was formally introduced to him. Danny Boyle is one director who knows his job and it can be seen in every frame of the film that he makes. 'Slumdog' showed how he could extract the best work out of every artiste and technician involved with his film. I was not too happy because many of my fans in India did not react to the role in the same manner in which audiences and critics in the West reacted. I still have not found the reaction to this puzzling reaction.But many say that you could hardly have done anything worthwhile in your limited role …

All those who say that have not tried to understand the intricacies of the role. I'd say it was a difficult to play. I had to express all my feelings just through my expressions and the manner in which I spoke my lines. I found it much more difficult to play this role than any other role that I have done in the best of Hindi films. I have no regrets whatsoever about playing the role of what one English critic called "the loathsome anchor". That was what I was asked to play and if I was accepted in it, I'm happy about doing the role. I think 'Slumdog Millionaire' is a great film and I stand vindicated by the number of awards it won and the way it has still been breaking records in the U.S. and U.K. I'm fortunate to be part of a film which will always be a milestone in movie history and I have received countless calls and messages from all over, congratulating me on my work in the movie.Many Indians hated the depiction of inhuman poverty shown in the film, the fact that people abroad love to see poverty as a symbol of India. As an Indian, do you think it was rightIt is a very ticklish issue for someone like me to talk about. I know it does not look good when we see the ugly side of a face. It is much more painful to see the ugly side of your own country. But a creative artiste has the right to hold a mirror to the realities of life.But according to the writer Vivek Swaroop , Danny Boyle has patterned the film exactly as per his book 'Q and A'…I know they are not very good scenes to see as an Indian, but when the maker has to portray the reality he has no other way but to go according to what reality demands. Besides, the film had the approval of the Indian government and the censors. The scenes in the film have also been shown in other films, and even in our own Indian films and documentaries. One has to learn to face realities and take criticism without any pretentions.Will you continue working in films made in the West, especially in Hollywood I certainly will. I'm an actor and an actor is beyond all kinds of barriers and boundaries. An actor has no caste, creed or community. He belongs to everyone. I have always thought of myself as an actor who only goes by the merit of a role and how much the role challenges the actor in me. I am willing to play any role in any kind of film, made anywhere. Anil Kapoor, a true Indian actor is game to face challenges from any part of the world. I'm a mad and hungry actor, almost like a hungry tiger. I will take all the leaps and cross all the ravines and dark woods to find my prey. I will never give up. It is this spirit in me that has kept me young as an actor, after being more than thirty years in the business. I would have been nowhere if I had lost my hunger. I hope to keep this spirit alive till the very end. Anil Kapoor is a mad actor and I have accepted the truth about myselfWhat kind of offers have you received after the success of 'Slumdog

I've been flooded with some very good offers. It's a great feeling to know that you are wanted as an actor and that filmmakers trust you to deliver the goods. I hope to make the best out of every role that I accept. I also hope to see my production company among the leading ones in the country.Does the failure of a film affect you Believe me, flops make me stronger. I'm not saying this to make an impact or to forget failure. But the fact is that every time a film flops, I realize that it is time to work harder and make up for the opportunity I've lost. I have survived so long because of this ability to turn any kind of weakness or failure into a source of inspiration to work harder, to fight harder to be a better actor.Do you think that our film makers are still interested in youIt is not whether they are interested because it is going to be me who is going to make the final choice. I am in a position where I can dictate my own terms, specially when it comes to selecting my roles. I'm aware that I am no longer in the game to play the romantic hero or the full time action hero. To think of it, it is now the right time to prove myself as the actor I always wanted to be. I still receive at least two or three offers everyday and on my own terms. But I have decided to be very cautious. This is the time to select roles which will give me the scope to grow. I have played a very long innings, thank God. I now want to establish myself as an actor who will be remembered whenever great roles are remembered.How do you perceive the future of actor Anil Kapoor ?

Time will tell, my talent will tell and the final decision is in the hands of God and the people.

What about your production company?

I have always believed in taking every step carefully. It was the same as an actor. It will be the same as a producer. Quality has always been something precious for me. That is why I had made "Gandhi My Father", under my banner Anil Kapoor Productions, and it was a great experience. I have matured as a producer with just one film. I am observing the scene and making notes about the ways of making films and the kind of films that are being made. I have some big ambitions and interesting ideas

When do you intend to direct a film?

I don't think I have the ability to be a director and I will not do anything unless I know what I am doing.

Your daughter too is an actress today ….

All I can say is that she is a fine and hard working actress. I have decided not to interfere in her career, unless it is really necessary. She's a confident actress and I don't see any reason why she should not make it.

It will be a great year. A year of great ideas and great performances, which will mark the beginning of a new chapter in the history of Hindi cinema. I am not crossing my fingers, because I know it is going to happen in 2010.

Katrina, it won't just be challenging

2010-02-09T00:16:00.000-08:00

Though the likes of Kareena Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra have played fashion models in the past, getting into the garb of an item girl isn't something that many have dared to do in the past. This is why for Katrina, it won't just be challenging but also seemingly a lot of fun as she would be the first amongst her contemporaries to take a step in this direction

There isn't any Southall connection to Katrina's

2010-02-09T00:13:00.000-08:00

nothing like that", vehemently denies Shirish, "There isn't any Southall connection to Katrina's character in the film. Instead she came in primarily due to her overall appearance which just fitted in perfectly with the requirement of the character. We were looking for somebody like her and ultimately settled for her only."