Rakhi Ka Swayamvar, which had audiences captivated on a week-on-week basis, has crossed yet another milestone in Television history by achieving the highest rating by any non-fiction show in the past 2 years. According to TAM data, Rakhi Ka Swayamvar- Faisle Ki Raat registered a huge 8.4 TVR with a peaking slot rating of 10.6 TVR. It was also the No. 1 TV show on Indian Television for the recent week. The final of this unique show was telecasted LIVE on NDTV Imagine on August 2nd.
The much-awaited Imagine presentation, Fem Presents Rakhi Ka Swayamvar had lived up to euphoria since its launch, scorching TV screens right from the opening week. Rakhi Ka Swayamvar opened at 4.1 TVR, making it the biggest non- fiction launch in over 15 months, aggregating higher eyeballs than any established reality show in India.
Shailja Kejriwal from Imagine said, “Rakhi Ka Swayamwar has smashed all recent TV viewing records. The show was truly a unique concept and the numbers more than substantiate the show’s huge fan following. Imagine promises to continue entertaining and delighting viewers, and our next big reality show to watch out for is Pati Patni aur Woh, which will take reality TV to the next level.”
Over 25 million viewers viewed the finale of Rakhi Ka Swayamvar across the country. It was also equally popular across the country and amongst all age groups.
Close on the heels of the success of Rakhi ka Swayamvar, Imagine has also announced its new groundbreaking reality show- Pati, Patni Aur Woh. This new show will remove 5 unique celebrity couples from their glamorous lives and thrust them into a simulation of the “real’ world where they will become parents and live life in fast forward!
High drama can be expected, as one of the celebrity couple is Rakhi Sawant and Elesh Parujanwala. The show is already getting a lot of publicity from Rakhi as she is heard scandalizing the media with statements like, “Mein bin bayahi Maa ban gayin hoon.”
This certainly is great news for Rakhi Sawant as finally she finds a platform where she is welcomed!
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Rakhi Sawant becomes a hot property for TV!
Shabana Azmi, Priya Dutt bond for a cause
It’s two women from illustrious backgrounds out to do a good deed. When actress-social activist Shabana Azmi had to invite someone to hand over the keys of homes of a large rehabilitation project, she didn’t have to think twice - she called MP Priya Dutt. “This was the fourth phase of our housing scheme. It is the largest rehabilitation project in Asia. And we requested Priya Dutt to hand over the keys. It was quite touching to see us two daughters carrying on the legacy of our fathers,” Shabana said. Shabana chose Priya for this occasion because of their mutual commitment to social welfare. “My NGO Nivara Hakk has given 12,000 homes for free to slum dwellers ousted from Borivali National Park. It’s tripartite pact among the government of Maharashtra, the private builder Sumer Corporation and Nivara Hakk,” Shabana said. “And it was very nice to have Priya along. She is the MP of the area and shares our vision of what needs to be done for the upgradation of slums. It’s a huge project and we wish to build alliances with like minded people like Priya,” said the actress. Shabana received the coveted Gandhi Foundation International Peace Award 2006 for her noteworthy two-decade struggle for slum dwellers through her movement Nivara Hakk. Known to be an outstanding public speaker, Shabana was impressed by Priya’s oratorical skills. “I heard Priya speak in public for the first time. I was very moved. She sounded as sincere and honest as Dutt saab.” Earlier, Sunil Dutt and Shabana had been jointly involved in various projects in their political and non-political capacities. Shabana and Priya have, in fact, formed a new bonding of like-minded sisters who are unified in their penchant for social causes that they’ve inherited from their father Kaifi Azmi and Sunil Dutt, respectively.
I will stick to comedy, says Rajpal Yadav
Rajpal Yadav, known for his antics in films like “Bhootnath”, “Mujhse Shaadi Karogi”, says he doesn’t have any plans to move away from his favourite genre. “Comedy and comic roles should not be taken for granted as big Bollywood stars like Salman Khan and Akshay Kumar are doing comedy,” he added. Rajpal was in the capital Wednesday to promote his film “Yeh Mera India” with actresses Smilie Suri, Seema Biswas, Sarika Ghatge and Perizad Zorabian. Releasing Aug 28, the film is directed by N. Chandra. It shows what is Mumbaikars’ perception about migrants from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh and how majority of the population sees Muslims as terrorists. “The film is an attempt to explore the real stories behind the headlines flashed on TV channels revolving around violence…,” said Chandra.
“I will stick to comedy as along as I can… I’m not allergic to serious role. But comedy is the need of the hour… it works as a pain reliever and as a stress buster,” he said.
Rahman to stage ‘peace’ concert in Australia
Music maestro A.R. Rahman has offered to hold a peace concert in January next year in Australia where many Indian students have been target of alleged racial attacks. The Oscar winning composer said the concert will be an attempt to “reunite culturally and spiritually” in view of the racial vibe. The concert, Rahman hoped, will create a “bridge of understanding and love” and break down “cultural misunderstandings”. Premier Nathan Rees of New South Wales has congratulated Rahman for the offer, the statement said.
The concert will be held at Parramatta Park in Sydeny Jan 16, 2010, said a press statement Thursday.
Actor Shiney Ahuja formally charged with raping maid
Mumbai Police Thursday filed a charge sheet against Bollywood actor Shiney Ahuja in a court here, accusing him of rape and wrongful confinement of his domestic help. The 36-year-old actor was arrested June 15 after his teenaged domestic help accused him of raping her. She told police that the actor called her into his room saying that he needed water and then locked her and raped her. The actor will now continue to be in judicial custody till Aug 13 and is currently in the Arthur Road jail. A Mumbai court had earlier rejected a bail application filed by Ahuja.
The 109-page charge sheet contains medical and forensic evidences, reports and witness statements, an official told IANS on condition of anonymity.
FESTIVAL SPECIAL: This Janmashtami sing along with Bollywood
To sing in joy and remember God on important devotional occasions has been a part of our films since ages. Lord Krishna’s birth marks the festival of Janmashtami or Gokulashtami in India. And if we peep into the past we will discover the strangest thing- although the festival is not touched upon by many filmmakers, but the essence of songs featured on super-stars earlier are still fresh in the memories of Indians. Janmashtami or Gokulashtami is around the corner; so here we are enlisting the famous ever-green songs, which showcase the fondness of B-Town for the festival of Janmashtami.
Govinda Aala Re Aala Re: The song featured on the super stars of different eras makes it more special. The super-energetic Shammi Kapoor in Bluffmaster and mind-boggling Sanjay Dutt in Vaastav breaking “dahi handi’ in the respective songs, are etched in the memories of many avid film-goers. The eternal music has come a long way since Bluffmaster days and Vaastav rejuvenated the essence of the song giving it a new dimension.
Yashomati Mayya Se Bole Nandlala: Sensuous yet graceful Zeenat Aman in Satyam Shivam Sundaram lip synching to the voice of nightingale Lata Mangeshkar brings life to this beautiful song, especially on the occasion of Janmashtami. Boiled down to the list of bhajans, this song can be heard in all the auspicious places where people sing-along to the tunes and lyrics of the ever-beautiful song.
Main Nahi Makhan Khayo: This beautiful narration of Lord Krishna proving his innocence to his mother- he did not steal butter (makhan) by Anup Jalota, mesmerizes many hearts even today. Not many know that this song has been featured in a Bollywood flick named Bhajan Sandhya.
Jeetega wahi jisme hai dum: Again this song picturised on Ajay Devgan in the film titled Sangram did not have larger audiences to hear it out. However, the song featuring a sort of competition among the boys– as to who will break the “dahi handi’ is worth a watch.
Chandi Ki Daal Par Sone Ka More: Last but definitely not the least, is the peppy number from Salman-Rani starrer Hello Brother. “Chandi Ki Daal Par Sone Ka More’, still gets one to step into their dancing shoes, and groove to go on and break the Handi yet again this year.
On that note, we wish everyone a happy and auspicious Janmashtami.
Shahid does not fear Swine Flu
Besides pandemic effect of Swine Flu, film industry will now suffer add on brunt of the deadly flu. As a precautionary measure government has decided to shut down multiplexes for three days. It is done with a view to control the spread of the fatal disease.
Shahid and Priyanka starrer “Kaminey’ was to release all over the country coming Friday. Alas Vishal’s ambitious film will be restricted to Mumbai audience. After “Kismat Konnection’ falling flat on the box office, Shahid too was looking forward to the film.
“We respect the government’s decision to shut down multiplexes. We are releasing Kaminey in other parts of the country this Friday itself, as we have received very positive advances for it. And we hope that by Sunday everything will be back to normal in Mumbai and Pune as well,” Says Shahid Kapoor.
Scare of Swine Flu is so intense that it will barely disappoint Shahid-Priyanka fans, who would rather wait for the slick flick.
Salman’s Kickin’ Independence
Salman Khan has definitely found a new friend in Ranbir Kapoor. The hunks got along well, while shooting for their films Veer and Rocket Singh: Salesman of the Year, respectively at Mehboob Studios, apparently they didn’t just have a casual chat over lunch. Sources have it that Salman invited Ranbir to join him for a football match this Independence Day while they were chatting at Mehboob Studio. Ranbir, who is a huge football fan, is obviously very excited.
The actor who plans to spend the day playing football with his friends has also asked younger brothers, Arbaaz and Sohail to invite their friends. Expected to join the Khans are Ranbir, Dino Morea, Ashish Chaudhary, Vatsal Seth and music directors Sajid-Wajid. Many more people are expected to join the list. The venue of the match is still unknown but according to sources, it will be held at one of the Bandra grounds.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Govinda plays womaniser in ‘Life Partner’: Tusshar Kapoor
Tusshar Kapoor is happy with Govinda’s presence as co-star in the forthcoming Abbas-Mustan movie “Life Partner” and says the comic actor adds as much value to the comic caper as Salman Khan did in “No Entry”. “‘Life Partner’ tells the story of two young men played by Fardeen Khan and me. And then there is Govinda who keeps coming in and going out of the scene, just as Salman did in ‘No Entry’,” Tusshar said. “In ‘No Entry’, the story revolved around Anil Kapoor and Fardeen Khan, but no one could deny the importance of Salman in the film. Same is the case in ‘Life Partner’ too where Govinda is an integral part of the plot,” says Tusshar who is also working with Govinda in “Run Bhola Run”, a comedy. Directed by Rumi Jaffery and produced by Abbas-Mustan, “Life Partner” is releasing Friday. Talking about the three male protagonists in “Life Partner”, Tusshar said: “The best of the enterprise is the conflicting view that each of us has around marriage. Fardeen is quite flamboyant and believes in love marriage. He has a girl friend (Genelia D’Souza), is very westernised in appeal, just as he is in real life too and has a free side to him. We both play best friends in the film.” “While I play someone who believes in an arranged marriage and gets hooked up with Prachi Desai, Govinda doesn’t believe in marriage at all. In fact he plays a womaniser. As a divorce lawyer, he keeps advising Fardeen and me against the so-called evils of marriage. He loves putting a spoke in the wheel even though at heart he is still full of ‘masti’. Whenever he comes on screen, there is bound to be excitement amongst the audience,” said Tusshar. Tusshar, who featured in last year’s big hit “Golmaal Returns”, wasn’t inclined to reach out to the makers and get his role increased in “Life Partner”. “Honestly speaking, I didn’t have any such inclinations. The roles required to have the kind of length that they have due to the way they were written. Anyone’s role being increased or chopped would have compromised the characters. “The film shows conflicting point of views of three guys and to show the right contrast amongst them, you can’t play around with their screen time. It is very important to see that each marriage in the film is important. One has to enjoy all the characters otherwise the whole fun of watching the film would be lost.” Even though the film is currently carrying good vibes and is releasing over the Independence Day weekend, Tusshar is cautious before jumping the gun and calling “Life Partner” a sure shot success way in advance. “See, there is nothing like success formula. Till a few months back everyone said that since the comic genre is succeeding, let’s make a comedy and we would have a hit in hands. Then we saw so many comedies also failing left, right and centre. You can’t be sure about anything. One can mainly concentrate on making a good film, promote it well, get a branding in place and leave it for the audiences to decide. Saying anything else in advance would be making an announcement too soon.”
Kareena looking forward to Kurbaan
With her recent release Kambakkht Ishq commanding a record breaking opening worldwide, Kareena Kapoor is very excited about her next, Karan Johar’s Kurbaan.
Our source says, “With Kurbaan, Kareena proves that she is the most versatile actress around. The subjects of Kambakkht Ishq and Kurbaan are as diverse as chalk and cheese and Kareena has done justice to both, said an insider from the industry. Sources inform that her role in Kurbaan is very strong and Kareena has really worked hard on her performances, as well as the look in the film. It may also be known that the actress has always maintained a fine balance between the roles she does. If on one hand we had teeny bopper romantic Mujhe Kuch Kahna Hain, then we also had a Chameli. If there was a Jab We Met, there was also the hardcore Omkara.”
The source adds, “Apparently she is more excited because she has been paired opposite Saif Ali Khan in the movie. Kurbaan is a politically-relevant film about international terrorism. Rensil D’Silva (Rang De Basanti) is directing it. It is after a long time that Kareena will be seen in an absolutely different role. The film shows the difference between fundamental terrorist and modern Islam. It makes a comment on people who kill other people; people who don’t belong to any god. It’s a very entertaining thriller with some wonderful Sufi music.”
Asin’s philanthropic side
There is more to Asin than being a film actress. The beauty with talent who won Bollywood fans’ hearts with her debut film Ghajini also has a philanthropic side. Our source close to the actress reveals the talented beauty is actively associated with various NGOs in Kerala and Chennai.
“Whenever she finds some time, Asin secretly visits these NGOs and loves being actively involved with all the charity work that they do,” our source further reveals.
“She personally looks after the disabled and the needy in these NGOs. However, unlike other stars she prefers to remain mum about it and not make it a self publicity exercise. These are things that are not meant to be spoken about, she feels. She has been doing this for years now and has been a regular visitor to various institutions in Chennai and Kerala. Being philanthropic is Asin’s second nature and she puts her heart and soul in it,” our source further adds.
AR Rahman plans free music concert Down Under to relieve racism tension
Oscar winning music composer AR Rahman is planning a free concert Down Under in a bid to relieve the ongoing tension between India and Australia following racist attacks. The composer, who won two Academy Awards for his work on the Slumdog Millionaire soundtrack, was devastated to hear of a series of violent incidents involving Indian students studying in Sydney and Melbourne over the past two months. He’s hoping to improve international relations with music and is set to organise a free concert in Sydney in January (10) as part of the region’s cultural festival. “Considering the recent hassles that have created a bad vibe, I thought this concert would be a statement of peace. I hope it will do what ever it can to reunite culturally and spiritually,” the Daily Express quoted Rahman as saying. “This show is very important to me. I hope it creates a bridge of understanding and love,’ he added.
Hello, I’m Not Twittering- Asin loses her sense of humor!
“Hey There Asin Thottumkal Is Using Twitter,” declares the latest social networking website, and then goes on to give us gems like “I want to act in Tamil movie” from the actress.
There’s just one problem. Asin is not on Twitter…or any of the social networking websites. And she can’t laugh off the impersonations any longer.
Asin has a very serious problem. She has impersonators on all the major social-networking websites. “I was ready to overlook these fake IDs using my name as long as they weren’t harmful. But now the problem is getting out of hand.”
The other night a colleague had a whole long conversation with “Asin’ and called up the next day to share her excitement about what an intimate conversation they had.
“I nearly fell off my chair. I won’t name this actress. But she said we shared our most intimate secrets on Facebook. I nearly fell off my chair and asked her whom did she share her secrets with. Because most certainly, it was not me. Two days ago, a journalist came to interview me and said she got all the information on me from what I had written on Twitter. For the record, I’m not on any of the social-networking websites. Apart from my own website, I am not on the Internet for any other purpose.I started blogging even before Aamir did in August 2005,”Asin declares proudly.
Asin is aghast. “I was clubbed with Chetan Bhagat and Shashi Tharoor, and put on a social networking website. But I’m not on Orkut, Facebook or Twitter. Apparently there are lots of fake profiles.”
The lies about Asin don’t end at virtual reality. “It’s been ages since I have had non-vegetarian food. For all practical purposes I’m a vegetarian. But I read this horrible report about how I love all kinds of exotic meats. I haven’t been approached by PETA. But that doesn’t mean I’ve to go the other way.”
Big B’s blog to be compiled into book?
Ever since his blog was launched in April 2008, Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan has been regularly updating it. From movies to his arguments with the media to social issues - he has written at length on various subjects. And now it may be compiled into a full-fledged book. The sexagenarian says he has received some very thought provoking responses and that is why he would like them to be included in the book if it ever takes shape. “I have found that during this long journey of ours there have been incredible inputs from those that have so liberally contributed to every blog of mine. Many among them have had a most lasting effect on me… I’m sure they must have on you as a reader too. “Some of the discussions and points of view have been so engrossing and valuable that it would be a pity if they are left out to dry. It would have to be a mix of several different categories - serious, intellectual, humorous, indifferent - so that there is an opportunity for some democratic fairness in their representation,” he explained on his blog. Amitabh, who shares his thoughts with his fans regularly, refers to bloggers as his extended family.
“During one of my meetings with BigAdda.com the people that matter said that they have a desire to convert the blog and my posts into a book and release it. I would find that terribly embarrassing, but if they were to persevere, I would want to suggest that the book also contain some of the responses from fans,” Amitabh wrote on his blog www.bigb.bigadda.com.
Shahid avoids getting clicked
Shahid Kapoor seems to be under strict instructions from Aditya Chopra to not to expose his new look for his upcoming next with Yash Raj Films. Otherwise how could one explain his odd behavior, when photographers saw him coming down a FM Radio station in Mumbai on Monday, August 10th evening.
Our source present there revealed, “Shahid was not aware that media persons were present there in the FM Station campus in Mumbai’s Lower Parel area. The media had assembled to cover Fardeen Khan and Genelia D’Souza’s promotions for their upcoming release Life Partner at the radio station. When Shahid was walking down the stairs the present photographers therefore caught him off guard. But instead of waiting even for one second to pose he dashed off to his waiting car, keeping his head down and avoiding giving a front angle look to any photographer present.”
Why has Priyanka gone for minimal make up look in KAMINEY?
After playing full-on glamorous roles in films like FASHION, DOSTANA and LOVE STORY 2050 last year, Priyanka Chopra has gone for a minimal make up look for KAMINEY. As per the actress, this was a conscious decision since the character of Sweety that she plays in this Vishal Bhardwaj directed film is such that it doesn’t warrant extra time to be spent in front of the mirror.
“Just imagine, Sweety is someone who comes from a lower middle class family, lives in a chawl and is a college going 22 year old girl. There was no way that we could have justified her as a glamorous personality when her background and upbringing was completely on the contrary”, says Priyanka who would next be seen in 12 different looks for Ashutosh Gowariker directed WHAT’S YOUR RASHEE which arrives late September.
As per Priyanka, there is a certain way in which young college going girls behave and she has adapted those mannerisms to go with the character of Sweety.
“Where is the time for someone so young to be sitting in front of a mirror and get all dolled up”, questions Priyanka who is paired opposite Shahid Kapoor in the film, “Most of such college going girls are usually in so much in hurry. Sweety is just one of them who takes hardly any time in getting dressed him, puts on a ‘choti’, rushes to college and has only one agenda in life- Get a boyfriend! She is content when she gets one!”
Playing a hardcore Maharashtrian girl, it was quite a task for Priyanka to actually put on the mannerisms that go well with her background and upbringing.
“Being a Punjabi, it was really very difficult”, says Priyanka, “I had to work extra hard since I had so many friends belonging to Maharashtra and I had to make them feel proud of me when they see me on screen.”
Since she has been a part of the industry for quite some time now, Priyanka has been put up in Mumbai for 7-8 years now. Was it still such a difficult task considering the fact that one expects a person to have adapted to the atmosphere by now?
“Adapting is one thing and playing someone who belongs to the region is different”, explains Priyanka, “I had to go through 1.5 months of training to get the Maharashtrian milieu and language right. I guess I have done a good enough job though I still look forward to all the feedback coming my way once audiences see me on screen.”
Tanushree ka JAVA-b nahi!
Passion, Obsession, and Necessity- these are few words to deal with computers. Yes this mean machine, which has become an essential part of our lives, has got one more die-hard follower in its kitty.
None other than our sultry beauty Tanushree Dutta, who is busy these days, learning new programming languages like JAVA to get herself updated with this mania.
She explains “I m really fond of learning new things. It’s everywhere in form of different applications, which we use daily. So, whenever I get some spare time I just call my computer programmer who sits with me, and I am able to learn new things. After all they say a dog is a man’s best friend; the next in the same context today seems to be the computer!” She smiles.
Samuthirakani refuses Ram Gopal Varma’s deal on ‘Nadodigal’
Possibly, director Samuthirakani should’ve changed his plans after watching “Ram Gopal Varma Ke Aag’. Recently, sources had revealed that filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma had planned to acquire remake rights of his “Nadodigal’ in Hindi. Although, close friends of Samuthirakani advised to sell the remake rights, he hasn’t let his mind towards such decisions.
“Samuthirakani has no plans on selling the rights as he will remake the film and soon will finalize the deal with reigning stars of Bollywood” says a closer source. Meanwhile, Samuthirakani has now planned to host a private screening for Bollywood celebrities in Mumbai.
The Telugu version of “Nadodigal’ will start rolling by next month.
15 August Ke Din MAX Ke Saath- Jai Ho!
Watch the saga of Jamal and Latika in Slumdog Crorepati, on August 15 at 8 pm only on MAX!
Continuing to deliver on its promise of providing world class entertainment, MAX, the Premium Movies and Special Events channel brings to its viewers a special Independence Day feast with Slumdog Crorepati, on August 15 at 8 pm. Adapted in Hindi from its English version, “Slumdog Millionaire’, the Oscar winning film captures the strident life in Mumbai’s slums- the begging mafia, juvenile crime, prostitution, gang wars- even as its main protagonist Jamal takes on question after question in an attempt to win a television game show.
To make it a special MAX experience, the channel has shot exclusively with the actors and the other talent that were a part of the internationally acclaimed film. So tune in to catch Ayush Khedekar and RubinaAli (youngest Jamal and Latika) singing and dancing to the tunes of Jai Ho in exclusive promos shot especially by MAX! As a part of the programming line up, MAX will be showcasing actors Tanay Chedda and Tanvi Ganesh (middle Jamal and Latika), Irfan Khan, Sauravh Shukla, Lovleen Tandon, Sukhwinder Singh and Oscar winner Resul Pookutty (Best Background Score) in a half hour special to be aired at various intervals between August 8 and August 15, with the actors sharing their on-set experiences and swapping shooting stories. Viewers can also catch interesting anecdotes and scene specific trivia shared by the cast and crew in a special and exclusive wrap-around show between every break during the telecast of Slumdog Crorepati, ONLY ON MAX!
In a poignant portrayal of life in the streets of Mumbai, the film follows three-slum children- Jamal Malik (Dev Patel), Salim (Madhur Mittal), and Latika (Freida Pinto) who team up and are living together in a trash heap when they are “rescued’ by a begging mafia. The children plan an escape, in which the boys succeed while Latika is re-captured. The boys grow up in different places, getting by through illegal means while Latika is brought by up the mafia to be a prostitute. Life brings them together time and again, only to drive them apart. The mutual love that Jamal and Latika share is the force that pushes him to find her every time they get separated. Will Jamal ever be united with Latika? Will Latika be able to break free of the forces that bind her? Why is Jamal, the illiterate chaiwalla, on the gameshow if he doesn’t want the money?
Salman terrorized by Swine Flu!
Our B-town celebs are panicking over the latest syndrome of Swine Flu that has hit India. Earlier it was Karan Johar and now, Salman Khan seems to be fretting over swine flu! Apparently, Sallu miya does not want to take any chance with the dreadful disease. So, Salman along with the other star cast and crew of Wanted canceled the venue of the press conference, which was scheduled at Amby valley on Aug 12.
Reliable sources reveal, “Amby valley is close to Pune, which is largely hit by the swine flu. So, Salman took the decision keeping in mind the consequences of the situation.” The sources go on to add, “Now, the press conference will be held in Mumbai.”
Salman has proved his over-concern every time, and this time yet again, he is going over-board by canceling his scheduled meets due to swine flu scare.
Big B to be with ailing pal Amar Singh until recovery
Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan is currently in Singapore to stand by his ailing pal Samajwadi Party general secretary Amar Singh. Singh’s both kidneys had collapsed and he was admitted to a hospital in Singapore for a transplant. Expressing his concern for the politician, Bachchan said that he’s going to be with Singh until he recovers completely. “Amar Singh ji has been a most sincere, steadfast and incredibly caring friend,” Bachchan said. “I consider him to be a part of my family and I shall be with him till he has sufficiently recovered to return back home. “It will be the least that I shall be able to do for him,” he added.
Sunny Deol can’t do without A.C
Sunny Deol’s on-screen short-temperedness has earned him laurels from one and all. His off-screen temperament doesn’t show any signs of anger too, for the kind of patience he has shown with the famous radio station, until the latter crossed limits says it all.
Wonder, what is the reason behind his cool behavior? If sources are to be believed, Sunny Deol is A.C freak. The source reveals, “Sunny paji can’t do without A.C. the habit is so weird that during the shoot of a dance sequence for his forthcoming venture The Man, Sunny Paji was sitting in the middle of 16 tonnes of A.C with 8 tonnes on each side, on an open location.”
Wah Sunny Paji, you have proved that you are real Punjab-da-puttar in every manner. Wot say Sunny?
Suresh Menon teams up with Anil Kapoor
Suresh Menon has no problems in life. Well we mean it quite literally, as he is doing Anil Kapoor’s home production film “No Problem’ which is an out-and-out comedy.
Aneez Bazmee directs this film and it has the ensemble cast of- Anil Kapoor, Sanjay Dutt, Akshay Khanna, Sushmita Sen, Neetu Chandra, Kangana Ranaut and Paresh Rawal. Besides the huge star cast, stand-up comedian Suresh Menon also has a substantial role to play.
“I can’t divulge much about the film. All I can say, is that I am playing a cop, with Anil Kapoor. As of now, we are busy shooting for the same in Cape Town,” he updates about the film. Recently, director of the film proclaimed that the film would attain the same branding like that of “Golmaal’.
So guys its time to lose yourself again in the gloom of theater with No Problems on mind.
Priyanka Chopra urges youngsters to save environment
Do your bit to save the environment even if it is a tiny step, urges actress Priyanka Chopra who is working for a greener tomorrow as the brand ambassador of NDTV-Toyota’s “Greenathon II” campaign. “Youngsters often ask - ‘What can we do?’ But I believe it is only the simple things we can do that can bring about a change. Get involved in such initiatives, spend a weekend doing something good for the environment and you will feel happy… let’s make the earth a better place,” she added. The first edition of “Greenathon”, a campaign initiated by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) in association with NDTV and Japanese auto giant Toyota, aimed to raise funds for the ‘Light a Billion Lives’ project. The aim was to take solar lanterns to rural communities. The campaign ended up raising Rs.20 million and lit up 55 villages across India.
“This is a fantastic initiative. I’m a part of the young generation who questions almost everything. But we need to understand that it takes little things for something to become big,” Priyanka told reporters here Tuesday.
‘Dostana’ to kick start iView film fest in New York
Director Tarun Mansukhani’s hit movie “Dostana”, a light-hearted take on homosexuality, will open the iView Film Festival starting Aug 28 in New York. Abhishek Bachchan and Priyanka Chopra, who were also in the film, won’t be able to join them due to their shooting commitments. The three-day festival will be held at the world famous Lincoln Center and will also showcase other Indian films like veteran filmmaker Shyam Benegal’s critically acclaimed 1983 film “Mandi”, Rituparno Ghosh’s “Bariwali” starring Kirron Kher and Mira Nair’s “My Own Country”. While Zoya Akhtar’s directorial debut “Luck By Chance” will be the closing film of the festival.
The director, who said to have brought homosexuality and gay talk out of the closet and into mainstream cinema with the film, will attend the festival along with actors John Abraham, Kirron Kher and Boman Irani.
Imtiaz Ali to launch ‘Kanden Kadhalai’ audio
Imtiaz Ali– well renowned filmmaker of Bollywood who delivered continuous blockbusters like “Jab We Met’ and recent “Love Aaj Kal’ will launch the audio of “Kanden Kadhalai’. The audio launch will take place on August 14 at Satyam Cinemas with famous celebrities of Kollywood gracing over the occasion.
Tamil Nadu film producers’ association president Ramanarayanan, producer Kalaipuli S Dhanu, directors Cheran, K.V. Anand, Samuthirakkani, Vikram Kumar, Pandiraj, Susindhran and many others will be present.
The film has Bharath and Thamannah in lead roles with “Silandhi’ fame Munna performing a prominent role. Vidhyasagar has scored music while “Jayam Kondan’ fame Kannan, once an associate of Mani Rathnam has directed the film.
Kailash Kher sets Delhiites grooving at Rahman’s concert
Delhi music aficionados were left wanting for more at the A.R. Rahman Unplugged concert here Tuesday evening with no solo performance by the maestro. But their pulses were set racing by singer Kailash Kher who literally made them jig with an electrifying performance. Crooning songs like “Nachle”, “Arziyan”, “Swades”, “Rang de basanti”, “Tauba tauba”, “Teri deewani”, “Dunia ut patanga”, the singer charged the Siri Fort auditorium with an electrifying energy while casting a dig at politicians. Information and Broadcasting Minister Ambika Soni was present at the concert, organised by public broadcaster Doordarshan to celebrate its golden jubilee on Sep 15. The audiences shouted for Rahman’s hit “Jai ho” and “Maa tujhe salaam” but the Oscar winner tested their patience. He just made two mark-my-presence appearances to only take on the piano in the end with singers Hariharan, Sadhna Sargam and percussionist Sivamani for songs like “Tuhi re”, “Bheeni bheeni”, “Dreams on fire”, “Ay hairathe” and “Bharat humko”. Thirty students from Rahman’s K.M. Music Conservatory in Chennai also performed in a choir at the event, co-organised by Phat Phish Records.
Kher kicked off the event with his band Kailasa with “Mangal mangal” from Aamir Khan starrer “Mangal Pandey: The Rising” setting the mood with backbeat percussions, thumps of drums and his high-pitched echoes.
Aamir Khan and Kiran lose their baby
Tragedy has struck the Khan household. Aamir Khan’s wife Kiran Rao has had a miscarriage due to which they have lost their baby.
Aamir had kept this tragic news hidden from everyone else for almost two months now. Finally revealing it in his latest blog entry, Aamir states, “I have bad news folks. Kiran and I lost our baby. Despite our best efforts we were unable to avert a miscarriage. The last 2 months have been a struggle for us and that is one of the reasons I was absent from the blog in more ways than one.”
Aamir further adds that he and K (that is what he calls Kiran) need some more time to heal and he won’t be active on his blog for a while now.
We pray to god to help the couple overcomes their personal tragedy soon and give them lot of happiness. Kiran who is Aamir’s second wife, had recently completed the shooting of her directorial debut film, Dhobi Ghat starring Aamir and Prateik Babbar in the lead. Its post production is in progress.
Aish-Hrithik display amazing rapport on Guzaarish sets
Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan’s first pairing up together happened with Yash Raj Films’ Dhoom 2 and their sizzling chemistry rocked the box-office. Ashutosh Gowariker’s mega epic Jodhaa Akbar saw them coming back together and taking their chemistry a step further. Now they are back together for the third time with Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Guzaarish and if our unit sources are to be trusted then these Bollywood’s hottest on screen pair displayed amazing rapport when they got shooting together again.
Though Guzaarish went on floors from July 31st, Ash just recently joined them after coming back from Mani Ratnam’s Ravana shoot. Our unit sources reveal, “There was instant chemistry between the two as they caught up with each other after a long time. From their first shot together, they were right on cue.”
It is learnt that all their shots, which were rather intense, were canned in the first take itself, much to the delight of the director. And as soon as a dramatic scene would be wrapped up, the two would be cracking up about something they said to each other. “It’s their personal rapport that makes their acting seem so effortless on screen,” our source added.
Apparently Ash had also brought homemade food for the entire unit and was instrumental in making the sets cosy for everyone.
Sushmita encourages Kangana to take up driving
Known in the industry circles for their independent personas, Kangana Ranaut and Sushmita Sen are doing a film together for the first time. The film is Anees Bazmee directed No Problem which is produced by Anil Kapoor. Presently the shooting for the film is on in South Africa with the entire ensemble cast present including Anil Kapoor, Sanjay Dutt, Akshaye Khanna, Sushmita Sen, Kangana Ranaut, Neetu Chandra and Paresh Rawal. Our unit sources reveal both Sush and Kangana have bonded so well that Sush is now seen encouraging Kangana to take up driving more seriously.
“Kangana is known to have driving phobia. Though the independent actress owns a car she hates driving and the reason is she doesn’t feel that she is confident enough to drive around the Mumbai city. When in South Africa, Sush came to know about this she started taking extra efforts in encouraging Kangana to try driving in South Africa as much as she can. She even started hoping into the car herself and sitting next to Kangana began giving her instructions as she drove short distances around their hotel there. Now this has begun to work wonders slowly and Kangana has started to enjoy driving.”
Well it’s a heartening thing to see that two actresses are bonding so well that they are helping the other to overcome their phobias that too on an outdoor shoot when in today’s time we only get to hear about cat fights and bitchy anecdotes whenever two actresses shoot together abroad for a film.
‘Daddy Cool’ doesn’t mock funerals: Director
Forthcoming laugh riot “Daddy Cool” is about a funeral gone wrong, but it doesn’t make fun of the solemn ceremony, says Hyderabad-based director K. Murli Mohan Rao who marks his return to Bollywood with the film. “The film is not just about the funeral…there are a series of underlying situations. It is a lighthearted family drama with a lot of laughter in it,” he added. Starring Aarti Chhabria, Ashish Chowdhry, Tulip Joshi, Aftab Shivdasani, Javed Jaffrey and Prem Chopra, the film is releasing Aug 28. Rao, who has so far directed 15 Telugu movies and 10 Hindi films, has returned to Bollywood after seven years with “Daddy Cool”. “I was busy with my personal life and some family problems. Also another reason to take the long break was that I didn’t want to jump at any opportunity that came my way. I was waiting for the right subject to make a film,” said Rao who started his career in 1983 with a Telugu film, “Sangharshana”. Rao’s last Hindi venture was “Kya Yahi Pyar Hai” that had Ameesha Patel and Aftab Shivdasani in the lead roles. He also made films like “Prem Qaidi” and “Kahin Pyar Na Ho Jaaye”, but says this is his first comedy. “I did not face any problems in directing ‘Daddy Cool’, even though this was my first comedy ever. It was like being on a picnic,” said the director. “Comedy is not my forte but one has to change with time. Now cinemagoers are mainly youngsters and they like watching lighter films. They want laughter and no burden attached. They want something that will entertain them completely. That’s why I ventured into this,” he added. But hasn’t the audience received an overdose of comedies in recent times? “I dont think people are overburdened with comedies. Comic capers do well, if they are made well. And I think people will never get bored of them. As long as you can make them laugh for the given two hours, audiences won’t complain,” he said. When asked whether he would like to venture into the same genre again, pat came the reply: “I’m a professional; so I am ready to dabble in different genres and new subjects. I will never confine myself to just one thing.”
“We have woven the story around a funeral in our comedy, but it doesn’t mock the serious occasion. It is not meant to hurt people’s sentiments at all. I’m sure once people see the film, they will not take it in a bad taste,” Rao told IANS over phone from Mumbai.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Ray’s classics to be screened at India fest in Los Angeles
Twelve Indian films, including Satyajit Ray’s “Pather Panchali” and “Agantuk”, and critically -acclaimed “Rudali” and “Salaam Bombay” will be screened at the 7th annual film festival of India at Atlanta from 21st August. The films have been chosen from the archives of the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) to be shown at the High Museum in Los Angeles. The High’s curator of media arts Linda Dubler partnered with A Agnihotri, director of the Indo-American Film Society, to choose the films represented this year, a statement said. The inaugural film of the festival is “Dance of the Wind.” Director Rajan Khosa’s first feature centres on Pallavi, a singer of classical Hindustani music who is unable to perform after the death of her mother. Ray’s last film was “Agantuk”, an amalgam of family drama and mystery and a commentary on Indian society, which will be the highlight of day two.
Mallika Sherawat honored by the city of LA!
In what will be the first Special Recognition of a Bollywood film celebrity by the City of Los Angeles, Indian star Mallika Sherawat will be given a special honor by Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, former Mayor Richard Riordan, Councilmember Jose Huizar and the Los Angeles City Council on 14th August, the eve of Indian Independence day in a council presentation recognizing Miss Sherawat as an honorary citizen of the City of Los Angeles and present a resolution for her extraordinary career and charitable efforts.
Many special guests are expected to attend including a number of Miss Sherawat’s Hollywood friends such as studio film director Jay Chandrashakur, world famous composer Yanni, award-winning record producer Ric Wake, CAA superagent Emanuel Nunez, studio film director Jesse Dylan (son of musician Bob Dylan), Donovan Leitch, Digital Domain-ILM legend Scott Ross, Hip-Hop record producer Craig Nobles, WME agent Alexis Garcia, “Hisss” director Jennifer Lynch and producers Govind Menon and William Keenan of Nuclear Mango, among others.
The event will be open to the public and Mallika will also be signing autographs for fans before and after the event.
Mallika, who has been residing in Los Angeles during the post-production of her film “Hisss”, has been called a new Hollywood “It Girl” by members of the US entertainment industry there after becoming the recipient of the Diversity Award in Hollywood, the Arts Award given by the mayor of Jersey City, the first star from Asia to be invited to the Twitter headquarters, the first Bollywood star to have a Hollywood milkshake named in her honor, and a favorite on the Los Angeles social scene, charitable circuit and even rock-star parties. This fall in Los Angeles, Mallika will star in her first all-American project, playing a character inspired in-part by Kamala Harris (Attorney General of San Francisco).
Immediately following the Special Recognition, Mallika and the guests will be hosted for brunch.
Excerpts of the letter from the City of Los Angeles:
“Ms. Sherawat,
I invite you along with family and friends to join the Los Angeles City Council and Mayor in a council presentation recognizing your extraordinary contributions to our great City on August 14, 2009 at 10 am in Council Chambers.
In addition to recognizing you in council, we would also like to present to you a resolution honoring your career and contributions.”
From Haryana to LA this jatni is surely going places!
Mallika Sherawat on a verge to become LA honorary citizen
Mallika Sherawat will become the first tinsel town celebrity to be conferred with a tag of honorary citizen of Los Angeles. The Los Angeles City Council will do the honors on the eve of India’s Independence Day.
The sources reveal that Mallika’s connections with LA go down since she has been residing in Los Angeles at a penthouse apartment in one of the most expensive houses. And now LACC will not only recognize her citizenship, but also pay tribute to her career and charitable endeavors.
Dutt irked by Ajay’s decision to release their film on Diwali
Diwali" hspace="5" vspace="5" align="right"> There is a strong buzz going around in the industry circles that Ajay Devgan, who wants to release All The Best, is planning to shell out Rs 50 lakhs if he wants his film to hit the theatres on October 16, the same day as Aladin, Blue and Main aur Mrs Khanna. Even a few tabloids have reported this today. However, this decision has not gone down well with Sanjay Dutt who stars along with Ajay in the comic caper All The Best directed by Rohit Shetty.
Reveals our source, “Sanjay Dutt already has two major releases Blue and Aladin this year lined up on the same date, October 16th during Diwali. Now he is in no mood to have a third release on the same day too. He is very upset with Ajay Devgan and is discouraging him from releasing the movie on Diwali.”
Anthony D’Souza’s Blue will see Sanjay Dutt in an action role where as in Aladin he will be seen as the bad guy called Ringmaster. Both the scheduled films are big budget starrers and Sanjay Dutt does not want to take any chances with them. He has been banking on these films for quite some time now, especially after a hit-less two years.
Rakhi Sawant gives a miss to sasural’s wedding
The much awaited decision of Rakhi Sawant on whether she would be attending the wedding of her sister-in-law Vrinda in Toronto or not, is finally out Well she at last opened her mouth about her absence from the shaadi.
“Everything was arranged, but at the last moment I and Elesh were selected to do the new reality show on Imagine- Pati Patni Aur Woh (Desi version of Baby Borrowers) and thus, I won’t be able to attend the wedding,” says Rakhi.
On that Elesh replied, “She has to do all the shopping before we enter the show, where both of us need to take care of the baby given to us. For the first time, I will get time to spend with her, beside that we will need lots of things in the house too.”
“I have to go for shopping, as the shoot of the same is taking place somewhere in North India. So Elesh and I decided that he will attend to his duty, while I will be busy shopping for the necessities that we will need during our stay in the reality show,” she converse.
They are not even sure of getting married. “This is the best time for us to test each other and decide whether we want to get married or not. Though we are planning to tie the knot, but this show will definitely decide our fate,” conclude the duo.
Rakhi ka drama aur kuch din chalne wala hai…So viewers get back to your TV sets as she will be coming soon with her better half.
Kareena looking forward to Kurbaan
With her recent release Kambakkht Ishq commanding a record breaking opening worldwide, Kareena Kapoor is very excited about her next, Karan Johar’s Kurbaan.
Our source says, “With Kurbaan, Kareena proves that she is the most versatile actress around. The subjects of Kambakkht Ishq and Kurbaan are as diverse as chalk and cheese and Kareena has done justice to both, said an insider from the industry. Sources inform that her role in Kurbaan is very strong and Kareena has really worked hard on her performances, as well as the look in the film. It may also be known that the actress has always maintained a fine balance between the roles she does. If on one hand we had teeny bopper romantic Mujhe Kuch Kahna Hain, then we also had a Chameli. If there was a Jab We Met, there was also the hardcore Omkara.”
The source adds, “Apparently she is more excited because she has been paired opposite Saif Ali Khan in the movie. Kurbaan is a politically-relevant film about international terrorism. Rensil D’Silva (Rang De Basanti) is directing it. It is after a long time that Kareena will be seen in an absolutely different role. The film shows the difference between fundamental terrorist and modern Islam. It makes a comment on people who kill other people; people who don’t belong to any god. It’s a very entertaining thriller with some wonderful Sufi music.”
Kareena looking forward to Kurbaan
With her recent release Kambakkht Ishq commanding a record breaking opening worldwide, Kareena Kapoor is very excited about her next, Karan Johar’s Kurbaan.
Our source says, “With Kurbaan, Kareena proves that she is the most versatile actress around. The subjects of Kambakkht Ishq and Kurbaan are as diverse as chalk and cheese and Kareena has done justice to both, said an insider from the industry. Sources inform that her role in Kurbaan is very strong and Kareena has really worked hard on her performances, as well as the look in the film. It may also be known that the actress has always maintained a fine balance between the roles she does. If on one hand we had teeny bopper romantic Mujhe Kuch Kahna Hain, then we also had a Chameli. If there was a Jab We Met, there was also the hardcore Omkara.”
The source adds, “Apparently she is more excited because she has been paired opposite Saif Ali Khan in the movie. Kurbaan is a politically-relevant film about international terrorism. Rensil D’Silva (Rang De Basanti) is directing it. It is after a long time that Kareena will be seen in an absolutely different role. The film shows the difference between fundamental terrorist and modern Islam. It makes a comment on people who kill other people; people who don’t belong to any god. It’s a very entertaining thriller with some wonderful Sufi music.”
Katrina plays leading lady in upcoming sequel of ‘Dostana’.
Finally the script and starcast for Dostana2 has now been finalised.It has been revealed two more actorshave been added with Katrina kaif to the existing cast of the flick. According to the sources Katrina has become leading lady of the film and also signed the deal. But along with her, the other actorswho have joined the list of ‘Dostana’ star cast are none other than Arjun Rampal and Riteish Deshmukh. Producer Karan Johar’s to the point to director Tarun Mansukhani said, “Go for it… I’ll produce it only if you come up with the right script.” And now Tarun claims to have done just that, and the sequel of will have as many as four men chasing the pretty lady. Reports revealed that “Katrina was chosen to play the female lead after much deliberation. Dharma Productions has auditioned dozens of new girls. Actually, they wanted a fresh face for ‘Dostana 2’. But finally, after a tedious Google search, they felt that Katrina’s ‘most hit’ status on the Internet makes it apt for her to play the role of the ‘most hit’ girl by the boys in ‘Dostana 2’.
Imtiaz’s New flick has Kareena-Akshay
A proud Director Imtiaz Ali has choose Kareena Kapoor and Akshay Kumar to star in is next flick. According to reports, Imtiaz has struck a deal with ‘Shree Ashtavinayak’ to make a film starring Akki and Bebo. Though the script for the movie is not yet complete but the star cast has been finalised. Kareena is seems to be on cloud nine for she is desperate to repeat her ‘Jab We Met’ success.Even she is desperate to work in “Love Aaj kal” but it does not happen.Finally she gets this new flick. Imtiaz seems to be wanting to cash on Akshay and Kareena’s ‘Kambakht Ishq’ popularity. With a sequence of hits of ‘Jab We Met’ and recently ‘Love Aaj Kal’in his bowl already, here’s hoping that Ali is able to strike gold this time too.
Katrina-SRK together in a Yash Raj film this bothers Salman?
It seems that there is nothing else that Katrina could have done to annoy overprotective boyfriend Salman more! Hard to believe the truth but the fact is Kat has reportedly gone ahead to the extent of signing a film by Yash Raj banner with none other than Sallu’s opponent Shah Rukh Khan. According to the latest news Yash Raj films has string of Kat and SRK for their film to be directed either by Aditya Chopra or Kabir Khan. According to our source, “Katrina definitely has it going for her. SRK, on the other hand, has remained in the safe zone — as far as heroines are concerned — for a long time. Be it Rani Mukerji or Preity Zinta, he has stuck to his regulars and has worked with them repeatedly. He needs to be a tad more adventurous about his co-stars, and that’s where Katrina comes into the picture.” Most probably Early next year film is going to hit the screen. What was Katrina thinking when she got herself tied up with the deadly Yash Raj-Shah Rukh combo? Guess that’s really going to bother Salman!
Shahid promises “Kaminey”is a movie for all age group
Shahid assures who is playing double role in Vishal Bharadwaj movie`Kaminey` has been given an `A` certificate it is not a film that will make viewers uncomfortable. The young actor also says that the film provides intelligent fare to the audience. Shahid says”Normally filmmakers ask viewers to leave their brain at home when they come to see their movies, but here I am advising them to bring their minds along. It is not a run of the mill movie, it actually stands out,” . According to information given by sources `Kaminey` is releasing Friday with 1,100 prints despite an `A` certificate.Shahid adds”It is given `A` certificate but it is a movie for all age group… it`s not a film that would make you uncomfortable while watching. `Kaminey` will be my widest released movie so far. Till date my biggest hit `Jab we met` was released in 927 prints but `Kaminey` is releasing with 1,100 prints,” Shahid with promising note says new things in the movie and present here to promote movie”`Kaminey` is certainly an important film for me as I have tried many new things in it. For the first time I am playing a double role and I am trying something different from a love story. In fact, this is also the first commercial film of Vishal Bharadwaj,” . Shahid co-star is priyanka choptra in the movie”I have seen the movie and also shown it to my family members. The movie has really come out well and we are getting good reactions,”. Explains his role briefly says “I am playing the role of Charlie and Guddu – two brothers – in the movie. They are entirely different characters and do not even match with my real life, therefore it was a challenging task for me to play the role to perfection.” One of the characters he plays stammers and to prepare for the role Shahid met many ENT doctors, speech therapists and people with stammering problems.He said”As the protagonist in the movie has some speech disorder, I met many experts as we did not want to make a caricature out of the characters. We have portrayed them very seriously and sensibly,” . Shahid comments about tittle are “When Vishal told me the title then I actually stood up in surprise. Even Priyanka and other star-cast were equally surprised. But when Vishal explained to us the plot, we realised that it is the most appropriate title as he wanted to communicate something that was really different.” Shahid, who has six-pack abs in the film, says he is more concerned about building physical strength. “I`m purely vegetarian and crazy about my fitness. My main aim is to increase my physical strength and not the body size. I do an amalgamation of cardio-vascular exercises, free hand and weight training for four-five days in a week,” he said.
