Aamir Khan blogs his heart out about the Terror attacks

Aamir Khan has blogged about the terror acts in the city on his website Pouring his thoughts out, he writes....

SHOCKED HEARTBROKEN HELPLESS ANGRY

Have been watching television since yesterday and to see various locations in Mumbai turn into a war zone is shocking and heart breaking to say the least.

My heartfelt condolences to the families of persons killed and taken hostage. I was feeling sick in the stomach when the fire broke out at the Taj. What would the people caught inside be going through? The fire-fighters were doing their best but my imagination was running wild and I was feeling helpless watching other people trapped in the rooms adjoining the fire.

My heartfelt condolences to the family of the brave officers of the Mumbai Police who lost their lives leading from the front to take on these terrorists. Especially Hemant Karkare of the ATS, who in the recent past was being targeted by various political parties for the work that he was doing. When will these politicians realise and admit that terrorists HAVE NO RELIGION. Terrorists are not Hindu or Muslim or Christian. They are not people of religion or God. They are people who have gone totally sick in their head and have to be dealt with in that manner. Hemant Karkare is an example of a brave officer who gave his life in the line of duty.

At this moment, I pray that the brave officers of the Mumbai Police, the Indian Army, Navy, the NSG and the various other security forces dealing with the situation are able to end this crisis as soon as possible.

If it had just been a matter of simply fighting the terrorists the security forces would have dealt with it sooner, but here, of course, the situation is extremely complicated with many innocent lives at stake. The fact that the locations are huge hotels with multiple floors, hundreds of rooms, many corridors, staff quarters, work spaces, entries, exits etc, and have innocent guests still in there, have made the task very difficult and delicate.

I dread to think of how various political parties are now going to try and use this tragedy to further their political careers. At least now they should learn to not divide people and instead become responsible leaders. An incident such as this really exposes how ill-equipped we are as a society as far as proper leaders go. We desperately need young, dynamic, honest, intelligent and upright leaders, who actually care for the country.
Faith.

Jai Hind.

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Amitabh Bachchan's blog airs his view against the terror attacks

"My pain has been the sight and plight of my innocent and vulnerable and completely insecure countrymen, facing the wrath of this terror attack. And my anger has been at the ineptitude of the authorities that have been ordained to look after us. And of course I have had the greatest pride in those from the forces that have and continue to fight for our freedom. Brilliant officers and police personnel have laid down their lives for us. I can only but salute them and respect their sincerity in the call of duty.

I have been at the receiving end of a million calls and an equal number of sms's the whole day to come live on TV or on the print media to express my views on the current situation and am being lured by words such as 'we need you to speak to express solidarity and for the people to maintain their calm'.

This is disgusting !! I will NOT do that. TELL ME AND ORDER ME INSTEAD THAT WE REQUIRE FOR EVERY INDIAN TO GET UP AND WALK INTO THE FACILITIES WHERE THE ACTION IS ON AND I WILL BE THE FIRST TO WALK.
But, please do not ask me to come and make sloppy statements that will do nothing more than create viewer interest in said particular channel ! I respect what the media is doing in serving the nation with its continuous information bulletins and I admire the brave and diligent manner in which they have devoted themselves to the cause. But what they expect me do I find against my ethics and want to be excused from it.

And for God's sake, let us stop reiterating that cliched "Sprit of Mumbai" retort. Yes Mumbai is strong and resilient and shall not be cowed down by any such occurrence. But let us not conveniently use it as our cover sheet, pull it over our heads and go off to sleep. Because that is what has been happening every time.
Incidents of grave disaster have continued to be camouflaged with 'oh, this is Mumbai, we have a great spirit, we will spring back'. Fine, we will, of course. But who is assuring us that the disaster will not !!

As an Indian, I need to live in my own land, on my own soil with dignity and without fear. And I need an assurance on that.

I am ashamed to say this and not afraid to share this now with the rest of the cyber world, that last night, as the events of the terror attack unfolded in front of me I did something for the first time and one that I had hoped never ever to be in a situation to do.

Before retiring for the night, I pulled out my licensed .32 revolver, loaded it and put it under my pillow. For a very disturbed sleep."

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Riya Sen talks about friend Ashish Chowdhury's loss

Riya Sen and Aashish Chaudhary have been buddies ever since they starred together in Harry Baweja's Qayamat in 2003. It was his first film and Riya, his first co-star. Their friendship has been special. Though they may not talk to each other everyday, they connect each time they meet.

The terror attacks in Mumbai that claimed the lives of Aashish's sister Monica and her husband Ajit Chhabria has left Riya numb.

"It is not right for me to say anything at this juncture. What can I say? I can well imagine what Aashish and his family are going through," says Sen about her pal.

It is learnt that Monica and Ajit Chhabria were residents of Basant Apartments, Cuffe Parade. Both were in their late 30s. The couple was at the Trident dining at the Kitchen restaurant that fateful night.

Riya has cancelled all her appointments and has been sitting glued to the television set since Wednesday night.

"I got to know about Aashish's sister through a common friend. I tried calling him and even sent him a couple of messages. I have never met his sister. But the news comes as a big shock. His wife Samita is pregnant. I can well imagine what they are all going through."

The actress adds, "It is shocking to know what has happened and the way the administration has handled the situation. They should have been prepared for such things. Mumbai is India's financial capital. The intelligence agencies should have known," says the actress exasperatedly.

They haven't won
Says Celina Jaitly, another close friend of Aashish, "I was constantly in touch with Aashish and last spoke to him on Friday. He said, 'I really want to find my sister.' I had been praying for him and his family. When I got to know the horrid news, I couldn't believe it. His family's grief must be unbearable. I can only say what happened to us; to our country? These terrorists think they have won, but God has no place for cowards who destroy His own creation."

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Ashish Chowdhry Loses His Sister & Brother In Law To Terrorism

After two days of uncertainly actor Ashish Chowdhry’s worst fears have come true. His sister Monica and her husband are no more. Not surprisingly, Ashish and his wife Shamita (who is pregnant) remained unavailable for comment.

But good friend Celine Jaitley who is in Rajasthan could not get over the tragedy. She says, “Almost everyone in that restaurant Tiffins at the Trident-Oberoi including his sister and brother in law was gunned down. It was the first venue of mayhem for the terrorists when they entered the Oberoi”.

However, Ashish and his family remained hopeful. Celina says, “One girl from his sister’s dinner group had run out and somehow fled from the attack out of the hotel. However, she was heavily sedated and Ashish could not get any information from her and kept hoping against hope”.

Apparently, on Thursday Ashish ended up getting the wrong information from the Helpline service. She says, “Poor Ashish. He rushed to the hospital, only to see it was not his sister. His hopes were even more dashed as hours turned in to days”.

With the confirmation coming in a pall pf gloom has descended on Ashish’s household. The actor’s mother has taken the only daughter’s death very badly. Celina says, “I did not know Ashish’s sister that well. But I know that they all dotes on her and her husband. What a terrible tragedy. Where will all this end?”
Exactly the question being asked by everyone.

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What's with the accent Priyanka

She's said to have put on one in Dubai

Priyanka Chopra is normally pretty cool so we are rather amused by the news of her “fake” accent at the recent Atlantis opening in Dubai.

Reportedly, on seeing foreign crews and Hollywood celebrities, Priyanka starting talking with an accent. Now, that was totally not needed!

Interestingly, during the Femina Miss India training, the beauties are taught to talk with an accent at international beauty contests. A former Miss India, Priyanka probably put this training to use at the Dubai event.

But we would say Priyanka need not put on an accent as she otherwise speaks perfect English.

Interestingly, our desi actors are so impressed by the Atlantis event that we have heard that many Bollywood stars are upset that they were not invited to the big party in Dubai.

And guess what? It’s been said that Hrithik Roshan touched Robert De Niro's feet when he met him there while Farhan Akhtar was in complete awe of the Hollywood legend. He has now sent DVDs of his movies to De Niro.

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Some more body show by John

John Abraham's body show in “Dostana” has become such a rage that now the producers of his under production film “Freeze” are cashing on it by getting John to repeat the act.

John will be shaking his booty in a club song to be picturised on him, Bipasha Basu and Neil Nitin Mukesh.

Not many may know but John and Neil are good pals, so one can expect a riot on the sets. The two stars became friends when they had gone for a script reading of Kabir Khan's “New York”.

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Katrina on Vogue India cover

But she doesn't look her usual self

Though her year will be ending with the miserable failure of “Yuvvraaj”, Katrina Kaif is the cover girl of Vogue India’s December issue, which is hailing her as “2008’s Surprise Hit”.

She has been photographed in a Versace silk dress in purple, the colour of the season. She wears drop earring by Bvlgari.

Priya Tanna, Editor of Vogue India, has said: "The mood of the month is celebratory and Katrina embodies it best right now. A winning combination of stunning good looks and box office success she has truly been the surprise hit of ‘08 and we caught her in a jubilant and vivacious mood in New York."

However, the cover photo fails to capture this upbeat mood and Katrina looks far from her usual dazzling self. Missing most notably are the twinkle in the eyes and the sparkling smile. In fact, we feel it may be even hard to recognise her if one looks at the picture fleetingly.

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Arjun Rampal turns 36 today

Officially, there are no plans for a party

It’s been a good year for model-turned-actor Arjun Rampal. It started with the success of “Om Shanti Om” and he followed that up with the hit “Rock On”, which also got him acclaim for his performance.

Personally, he started moving around in the league of the A-listers. From cheering Shah Rukh’s cricket team in the IPL matches to attending last week’s opening of Atlantis in Dubai, Arjun is now seen in the company of Bollywood’s elite.

With his stack of flop films and struggling days behind, Arjun has every reason to be upbeat and positive, especially today, as he celebrates his 36th birthday.

Though he plans to have a quiet birthday dinner with family and close friends tonight, he’s working on hosting a grand bash to make wife Mehr’s birthday on November 30 a truly special one.

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John plans a home expansion

John Abraham, who lives on the eighth floor of Sea Glimpse Apartments, is now extending his home. The apartment below his place is now being readied for the actor.

The seventh floor space is being designed in Bandra, jointly by his father, brother and cousin sister.

Talking about it, John says, "I come from a family of architects my father (Abraham), brother Alan (who got married this year) and cousin sister Anahita are all architects. My brother is there 24/7, and together with my cousin, is designing my flat. Though I always had the seventh floor apartment, the penthouse terrace apartment on the eighth has always been my home. I am uncomfortable in large spaces."

John adds that though he had bought the seventh floor apartment, he never shifted into it as his penthouse apartment suited his basic needs. It was so functional that it didn't have a proper bed but a futon, which functioned as one. John smiles and says, "Now this apartment has a bed. My apartment on the seventh floor looks like a home while the terrace one never did though it fitted my description of a home. But now, I want a proper home. My family and I got together, took a collective call and decided to get it designed."

John is very enthusiastic about Alan's designs. He says, "My brother has some brilliant plans. I am very much a wood and glass person and the interior design is amazing. It's a reflection of my tastes. Its very today's architecture and some of Alan's ideas are real head-turners. The ideas he's shared with me are unbelievable! For me, every step of architecture and interior designing is a learning process. When dad and Alan talk, I just listen. They are functional and when I sometimes go wild with my ideas, they bring me down."

John says the concept and design of his home is along basic minimalistic lines. "I will be having stuff like wooden flooring and lots of open air spaces. My tastes are very simple, basic, earthy and not overtly done up yet exude a positive energy. I take a final call on everything. I am very close to nature and love plants, so my new home will have lots of greens too. Everything will look real and not posh. I feel uncomfortable with too much sophistication."

The shifting will take time, says John. "It will take about six months and we have just started breaking stuff.

The society people have been very gracious, tolerant, cooperative and a big help to us."

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Bill Clinton wants Big B

Former US president Bill Clinton has been trying to convince Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan to attend the annual Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) meeting to be held in Hong Kong next month.

"Bill Clinton writes in to ask me to join their global conference for the betterment of the world in Hong Kong," Amitabh posted in one of his recent blog entries.

The latest update on the same from Amitabh has been that Clinton called him up "to request" him to come for the event.

The veteran actor has mentioned about the CGI more than once on his blog.

In one of the posts, he wrote, "I need to prepare also for the CGI - Clinton Global Initiative. Global warming, solar energy, lighting villages…."

The CGI was established in 2005 by Clinton to bring together global leaders from various backgrounds to devise and implement innovative solutions to some of the world's most pressing challenges.

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I'm the female Akshay: Deepika

Actress Deepika Padukone had her tryst with action in the forthcoming film Chandni Chowk To China. Deepika who was at the MTV Roadies press meet says that she is now on her way to becoming the next female Akshay Kumar.

MTV Roadies is back with a bigger better and more adventurous journey in its sixth season, Roadies — Hell Down Under is gearing for a ride to Australia with 20 roadies and a price money of Rs 10,00,000.

And while the show has tied up with Rohan Sippy's Chandni Chowk To China, it was Deepika Padukone who seemed to be going the Roadies way by doing some action in the film.

Deepika was all praises for the stunts she's done in the film.

"I'm sure I have gone through a lot of death defying action in the film. But I was prepared for it when I signed the film," she said.

Sporting a new look Deepika also shared her moment of action with Khiladi Kumar and learnt a few tricks for survival as well.

"Akshay taught me lots of action. He said that action is like dancing so you have to be very graceful while doing it," she said.

"I like to believe that main next female Akshay Kumar hoon (I'm the next female Akshay Kumar)" she added.

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Karan Johar features in the November issue of People

Kuch toh 'log' kahenge, logon ka kaam hai kehna...

Well, the ironical part is that the abovementioned famous yesteryear's song has just been proved right (repeatedly) by the super-cool magazine 'People'. Looking at the way they are 'breaking' stories, it won't be surprising to see the leading dailies' editors breaking the heads of their journos!

The latest issue has Karan Johar...even before you get any kind of ideas about his 'confessions', then let us play the spoilsport by saying NO...Karan has not spoken on his sexual preferences. And even though 'People' tried to take up the forbidden route, the normally calm Karan suddenly becomes 'Current Johar' and answers, "That's not for you to know and not for me to reveal. My personal life will always be my personal life". Not just that, you can find the ever-so-charming Karan share his views on his family, his background (how he had almost landed up in France and what made him stop), his very closet friends and of course, the icing on the cake...you guessed it right...the one and only SRK!

Overall, after reading this issue, one would surely be forced to rename May 25 (Karan's birthday) as Friendship Day, as we certainly believe that there cannot be a greater friend, philosopher and guide than Karan!

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Wishing Arjun Rampal a Very Happy Birthday

In India, the way we worship Lord Ram, Hanuman and others, devotees in Greece worship our Birthday Boy for today: Arjun Rampal! The reason? Because he is a Greek God! Well, life could not have got better for this model-turned-actor dude with an extremely down-to-earth attitude!

How many of us have the fortune of being 'discovered' while you are partying away your blues! Well, for Arjun, his visit to a disco paved his way to superstardom, as he was discovered by none other than the ace designer Rohit Bal himeslf. Arjun took to modelling the way a fish would take to water. What followed after that were assignments galore that established him as one of India's premier and niche' supermodels! And for this man, Bollywood was just a stone's throw distance away! He said 'Cheese' to the tinsel cameras for the first time with his debut film Pyaar Ishq Aur Mohabbat. Even though the film did not work at the Box-Office, it gave directors like Khalid Mohammad, Farah Khan, Farhan Akhtar and likes their 'Salim Mirza', 'Mukesh Mehra', 'Joe Mascarenhas' respectively.

Friends, please join Bollywood Buzz in wishing the one and only Arjun Rampal by posting your wishes below:

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Karan Johar confirms DOSTANA collections

"DOSTANA has collected 28 crores at the end of first week from India alone", comes an official statement from Karan Johar even as different figures continue to float around ever since the first week came to a close.

Though there have been speculations around 25–26 crores being the final billing for DOSTANA in India, Karan's statement should set all speculations to rest considering it comes from the head honcho himself.

"Dharma Productions as well as Yash Raj Films, which has distributed the film, are extremely happy with the way DOSTANA has worked at the box office", adds Karan Johar who now is the man behind Bollywood's first hardcore commercial film with two men playing gay characters, even though by faking it.

With YUVVRAAJ not opening to a good response and no other biggie in the sight till the arrival of RAB NE BANA DI JODI, is he fathoming chances of DOSTANA turning out to be a big money spinner?

"I have been informed that the film has done well in the second weekend as well though I am waiting for the official numbers to come in. I am not surprised though since audience is watching it the second time around as well", says Karan hours before boarding flight for New York.

With YUVVRAAJ all set to be a loser at the box office and relatively smaller movies arriving in weeks to come (there are as many as 10 of them though in the fortnight leading to RAB NE BANA DI JODI), DOSTANA is destined to earn mega bucks at the box office. Though 40 crores is now very much within the reach, it would be interesting to see if Abhishek and John manage to get a 50 crores film to their name.

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Bips charges a bomb to shake her booty for New Year's eve

While the world may be going through a economic slow down things are sure not slowing in India as actress Bipasha Basu has been approached by Hotel Sahara Star to dance for the New Year Eve. It is believed that Sahara Star has paid Bipasha a whopping Rs. 1.5 crore ($ 300,000) for her to perform at their Hotel in Mumbai on 31st December. While Bips confirmed that she would be dancing at Sahara Star, the actress shied away from disclosing the amount that she has received.

Actress Katrina Kaif who has had successful year 2008 will be putting a perfect closure to the year as she will grooving at JW Mariott in Juhu Mumbai. Sources confirm that Katrina has been paid a whopping Rs. 1 crore ($200,000) for a one hour dance act on New Year's night. One thing is for sure that in the Bollywood babe 'Race' Bips has defeated Katrina.

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Priyanka Chopra features in the November issue of music magazine Blender

When the 'King Khan of Bollywood' calls someone as 'The Sexiest Indian Actress', then she better be someone who is out of this world. The lady in question is not just 'merely' out of this world, but she is a Miss World herself. Well, ladies and gentlemen, please put your hands together for the one and only Priyanka Chopra, who has beaten, not just the 'blacks', but also the 'blues', to be the 'Numero Uno' artist in the newly launched supercool music magazine 'Blender'!

All this while we had known Priyanka as the actress and the heart-warming eye-candy. But the super-enthusiastic guys at 'Blender' have portrayed her as a performer and this 'portrayal' has put Priyanka Chopra in the top spot, thus surpassing greats like Metallica, Kareena Kapoor, Mariah Carey and Amy Winehouse (it's a global compilation, you see).

With the recent back-to-back smash hits like Fashion and Dostana, can life get any better for this chic? Sometimes, we wonder if Lady Luck herself must be jealous of Priyanka's Luck! Way to go, Priyanka!

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Aamir Khan's haircut session to get the 'Ghajini' look

Aamir Khan truly believes in keeping the best for the last. He ended last year (2007) with probably the best film of the year, Taare Zameen Par, and this year too he has the much awaited Ghajini all set to release in the last week of December (Dec 25). Right from the time the film was first announced it has been in the news for one reason or the other. First it was Aamir Khan's hairstyle which became the talk of the town and then his beefed up look which made everyone sit up and take notice of this film. As the film nears release, we bring you a behind-the-scenes glimpse of what went behind the making of the hairstyle which has now become a fashion statement of sorts.

Aamir has been known to experiment with his hairstyles to get into the skin of the character. Be it his cool dude look in Dil Chahta Hai, his lover boy look in Fanaa or his rebellious look in Mangal Pandey- The Rising, Aamir has given it all for his characters. Noted hair stylist Avan Contractor (of b:blunt fame) has been styling Aamir's hair since Dil Chahta Hai and she is the one responsible for Aamir's new cropped look in Ghajini. In this pic, Aamir looks on pensively as Avan gets ready to go snippety snip on Aamir's locks. Also seen in the picture are ace photographer Avinash Gowarikar and well known cinematographer Ravi K Chandran.

Avan is seen carefully observing Aamir's head as she knows that when it comes to Aamir, everything has to be Perfection Personified. As for Aamir, he seems pretty relaxed and is patiently waiting for the hair cutting session to begin

As Avan runs the razor through Aamir's hair, the actor looks at the mirror and seems to be wondering 'Hair today...Gone Tomorrow'. Not just Aamir, even the lucky few present in the room can't wait to see Aamir's brand new look

Voila...He's done it...Aamir has finally cropped his hair for his character in Ghajini. The look has been modeled on the lines of the look which actor Surya sported in the Tamil version. Avan has not given him just a plain cropped look but has even given him linings on his plate which is the demand of the character. Aamir's character in the film gets beaten by the goons and hence the scars on his head

The hour and a half long hair-cutting session is done, but Aamir is making sure that the scars on his head seem alright. Known for his penchant for detail, Aamir wants to get it completely right this time and hence seems to be making a point to hairstylist Avan who is listening to the superstar attentively. Now you know why they call him 'The Perfectionist Khan'!!!

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Exclusive images of Hrithik & Barbara during Kites shoot in Mexico & Vegas

Hrithik Roshan's eagerly awaited next film Kites is definitely worth watching out, for he plays a Salsa dance instructor who falls in love with Latino sensation, Barbara Mori. Kangna Ranaut plays a rich girl who falls in love with her dance teacher. Director Anurag Basu has canned several sequences during the outdoor schedule in Las Vegas and New Mexico and is looking forward to the last schedule in Film City, Mumbai. Yes, there will be lots of breathtaking break-free dance moments that you guys would love to devour with baited breath. Hrithik is working with Flexy, a choreographer from New York who has worked with him in a few of his ads. In this special feature we bring you our interpretation in the form of short poems of these exclusive pictures (courtesy http://kites-themovie.com). Two of the pictures are from the location while three others are from the event where Hrithik and Barbara were being honoured by the Sikh Community representatives in New Mexico - Bibiji Inderjit Kaur (on behalf of New Mexico Governor) and Tejinder Singh (in blue turban) respectively.

Ladies and gentlemen, a curvaceous assassin is on the loose
Kill with a bullet or the champagne eyes, whatever you choose
If all the killers were in such good shape;
Less crime, forget everything and just gape.

When you have me for company, why talk long distance
Let the ballooning dreams fly in hot air defying all sense
I wouldn't let the clouds of despair hover around
How 'bout Salsa in mid air, hey play some rockin sound

This one's bigger than all the limelight awards
Hard work is worth-it for such solemn rewards
We may live distantly but our heart-beats together
So much affection, hope it stays like this forever

Black suits me for fair achievements
Thank you for showering me with compliments
Radiant persona is the reason for my success story
Naam to suna hoga...its Barbara Mori

Respect for elders isn't culture specific
Moist eyes, warm hugs, what a pic
Smiles, stronger than biggest of mountains
Immense love pouring out of millions of fountains

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Kareena says no to British PM for KJO

Kareena left on Sunday night to shoot in the below-freezing temperature in Philadelphia. Kareena Kapoor is so excited about shooting this film produced by Karan Johar that she has said no to a special invitation from the British Prime Minister Gordon Brown.

"It was a huge honour. I was the only invitee from Bollywood and it always feels great to represent our country. It was an invitation from the British House Of Commons to visit the Prime Minister. But if I had gone Karan Johar's dates would've suffered."

"What to do?" sighs the overworked Diva as she gathered her wits and clothes for her imminent departure. "I don't have the time. Besides, the invitation came too late....my fault. They couldn't access me, so they finally had to get to me through my father. By then, it was too late for me to accommodate a flying visit to the House Of Commons for this uncommon honour. So sad!"

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Emraan loses 10 kgs to get the lean look for Raaz - The Mystery Continues

There is no denying the fact that Emraan Hashmi is the Bhatt camp's blue eyed boy. The actor, who is on a high post the stupendous success of Jannat, is now awaiting the release of his next film Raaz- The Mystery Continues. Produced under the banner of Vishesh Films and directed by young Mohit Suri, Raaz- The Mystery Continues has Emraan playing the role of an artist.

Known for getting into the skin of the character completely, Emraan lost 10 kgs for Raaz- TMC and is looking very lean. What's more? Epitomizing the creative spirit, he's also spiked his hair, grown an arty beard, kohled his eyebrows, and loaded up on junk jewellery.

It was director Mohit Suri who wanted Emraan to shed some of that extra flab and get completely into the character. Emraan crash dieted and completely cut off bread, pastries, cheese and any kind of junk food from his diet. He switched to sugar free desserts, from aata to nachni rotis and even minimized his salt intake. The results are there for all to see- he was 76 kgs and is now much leaner at 66 kgs.

Speaking about this effort Emraan says "It's not so difficult, if you're serious about it. And the results are the biggest motivator encouraging me to stick to the schedule. Along with the change in diet, I walk every day for an hour and drink lots of water. Also, I've begun having dinner 3 hours before I sleep, and whenever I have a day off, I go for a run before breakfast, because you supposedly burn more of fat that way. I saw the biggest difference in a week after cutting off bread from my diet."

The big question however is, Will he continue with this diet plan? "Sure" he says, "I've got used to this discipline and am enjoying this new leaner feel."

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Hrithik Roshan has a message for kids with disabilities

It was a hugely emotional experience for Hrithik Roshan when he inaugurated the Audio and Speech therapy wing at Mumbai’s Nanavati Hospital and donated Rs.2 million for the treatment of special children. The actor met his old doctor, Ramesh Ojha, who treated him for his speech impairment.

"All the memory of my past difficulties came spilling out at Nanavati. When I met my doctor who treated me at age 14 for stammering I could barely control my emotions. It's not easy to be a special child," Hrithik, who inaugurated it Sunday, told IANS.

"You may be called 'special' to make you feel less troubled about your disability. But only a child who goes through the physical or psychological disability knows the trauma," said Bollywood superhero Hrithik.

Sharing his own trauma at Nanavati was a cathartic experience.

"As someone who has a certain standing I feel it's my duty to tell kids with disabilities to chill. 'It's okay, guys. I got over it. So will you.' I think it's very important for me to convey this message far and wide and I want to do it more often.

"When I stood there at Nanavati thinking of all those kids who would benefit by the facilities provided by my money, I felt very good about myself. It's all very well to look after your own immediate family and care for friends. But I believe money should also be used for the larger good. That's what I realised Sunday evening.

"I feel charity is a very selfish thing. I feel so good after doing it. I'm sure those who will benefit from my donation wouldn't feel as good about life as I do."

The wing has been named after his grandmother Ira Roshan.

"I shared some great times with my daadi (grandmother) during my childhood and growing years. Today, seeing my name and hers being associated with such a project, she must be smiling down," said Hrithik.

Right now, Hrithik is busy shooting for his next home production "Kites".

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Kareena to visit Saif's ancestral Pataudi village

Bollywood beauty Kareena Kapoor seems set to take her relationship with beau Saif Ali Khan to another level. She'll soon be visiting his ancestral village Pataudi in Haryana.

"Yes, Kareena has been invited to Pataudi. It'd have been earlier, but it was too hot. Winter is when our family reunions happen every year. And Kareena is now part of the family. My parents are extremely fond of Kareena," Saif, who worked with her in "Tashan", told IANS.

Saif, who started dating Kareena after breaking up with ex-girlfriend Rosa Catalano, is quite happy with their relationship and says he is looking forward to marrying her.

"This relationship is 'IT' for me. Today I feel very settled and very happy. Though a bit lonely. And when I've bad days, I feel I'm being ungrateful. I'm now looking forward to settling down with Kareena. Our marriage will happen very shortly as soon as we both have a little less work on hand and we can give the marriage quality time. Also, her family has to be ready for our marriage," he said.

The actor says he enjoys a good rapport with Kareena's parents - Babita and Randhir Kapoor.

"We're very close. She has been really gracious in inviting me into her family. She's made sure I'm part of her family. I've also met Daboo uncle (Randhir) a few times, shared friendly drinks with him. As for Karisma, I think she's the sweetest girl ever in the world. I'm deeply fond of both Karisma and her husband Sanjay (Kapoor). They're truly wonderful people. Kareena's family has taken to me as warmly as my family has taken to her," Saif said.

The actor, who suffered a mild heart attack in 2007, says his lifestyle has now changed completely.

"My lifestyle has changed completely after the heart attack. Looking back it's hard to believe I went through such a health scare. If it wasn't for that life-changing experience, I wouldn't be in a relationship with Kareena right now. I hardly drink. Don't even look forward to drinking any more. I don't smoke or party."

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Raveena refuses to play Ajay Devgan's mom

Prakash Jha's "Rajneeti" was to be Raveena Tandon's dream comeback but the actress quit the project once she learnt that she would have to play Ajay Devgan's mother.

"You can't blame me for saying no to playing mother to an actor with whom I co-starred in so many films. But I had a bigger reason for my refusal. The film required me to leave Mumbai for two months at a stretch. Both my children are too young to be left behind for such a long time, especially since they don't even go to school yet," Raveena told IANS.

Raveena was expected to play the role of an all-powerful politician in director Prakash Jha's "Rajneeti", inspired by late prime minister Indira Gandhi's life and times. Raveena was to play Ranbir Kapoor's mother. And Ranbir's role resonated the life of Rajiv Gandhi.

Raveena, who had earlier played a politician in "Satta", had several meetings with Jha and both of them were excited about it.

Raveena had to age from 20 to 60. Her makeup, saris and styling were all finalised. Until she realised the role required her to play not just Ranbir's mom but also Ajay's mother.

That's when the National Award winning actress decided to back out, thereby halting her spectacular comeback plans.

"Prakash Jha offered me the role in 'Rajneeti'. And what a role! I've the highest regards for Prakash. And when I met him for this part, I realised he's even bigger a visionary than I thought.

"He's meant to not just make films but be a national leader. He's absolutely the right person to direct a subject like 'Rajneeti'. I'd have given anything to return to cinema with this project, specially since he insisted I was his first and best choice," the actress said.

Raveena, who was last seen in the 2006 dud "Sandwich", is ready to return to the big screen. But she will only do a film that requires her to shoot in and around Mumbai. The actress is best remembered for her hits like "Mohra", "Andaz Apna Apna" and "Bade Miyan Chote Miyan".

As for the role of the female politician in "Rajneeti", Jha is now thinking of casting either Tisca Chopra or Mrinal Kulkarni.

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Celebration time for Abhishek, John & Priyanka

Abhishek Bachchan, John Abraham and Priyanka Chopra’s friendship has proved fruitful at the box office, not just in India but overseas as well.

In UK the opening weekend collections are 330 thousand pounds. The Friday and Saturday figures in USA at $442 thousand have beaten Race ($397 thousand). In UAE the movie has registered $597 till Saturday. That happens to be the biggest opening for any Indian movie in UAE this year. In fact it has even exceeded the first week collections of Singh Is Kinng. The press abroad too has only good things to say about the movie.

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Aishwarya Rai faces a barrage of questions

Questions flew fast and furious at Aishwarya Rai, as the Longines brand ambassador launched the new Admiral watch at a fashion show and presentation at the ITC Grand Central in Parel yesterday.

The nation's most famous bahu made all the correct noises about the association of Longines with elegance and then took questions, answering most with the trademark Ash charm. She even ribbed journalists when they rolled two and three questions in one saying: "Tricky. The girls are being very clever with their questions these days."

A question about hubby Abhishek and John Abraham's kiss in Dostana was dismissed by Ash with a counter question, "Did you like the movie?" she asked the journalist who asked her what she thought about it. When he said yes, she said, "Well, then, that is all there is to it."

Ash said that the "fun and fantastic" Dostana, "Was offered to me initially. It would be the first film after my marriage. But, I turned down Karan (Johar) because, we wondered whether the audience would expect a love story between me and Abhishek and finally she goes off with the other guy..."

Laughing at the next question of what her New Year plans are going to be, 'Right, as if I am going to tell you," she told the journalists that, "It would be the little window of time, Abhishek and I have together since we are working so much right now."

On a question about her getting only a minuscule amount of publicity in the Pink Panther promotions, Ash admitted she had been inundated with questions about that one, saying. "Thanks for your support and patriotism but I have never questioned or dictated about how I am projected in a promo. That is because I am innately secure and confident. I simply loved doing the role in Pink Panther."

A few questions later, Ash posed willingly for the photographers and then, with a wave of her hand, Ash, the consummate professional was gone, trailed by a phalanx of photographers and exploding flash bulbs. The actor who spoke about her "happy" nearly one-year-old marriage looked so much at ease in front of the cameras she has been wedded to for 12 years now.

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Carmen Electra to arrive in Mumbai in February to shoot with Akshay

American model, pin-up star, entertainer and performer Carmen Electra will arrive on February 10, 2009 in Mumbai to shoot with Akshay Kumar for Sajid Nadiadwala's Kambakht Ishq.

Carmen, who is known for her skin show in Baywatch and horror spoofs like Scary Movie and Meet The Spartans, has been roped in at a price, unheard of among desi item girls.

Carmen, it is reliably learnt, will be shooting with Akshay Kumar in Mumbai on February 10 to a song that is being specially composed for the occasion.

Producer Sajid Nadiadwala says, "It's too early to talk about this. But yes, we're shooting a promotional music video with Akshay Kumar and a foreign female celebrity.

At the moment we've wrapped up the entire shooting of Kambhakt Ishq. It's by far the most expensive film I've ever produced. But when I look at the action scenes featuring Kareena Kapoor, Akshay Kumar and Sylvester Stallone, I'm more than happy."

When Carmen comes in on Feb 10, she and her entourage will be provided the top–most amenities and security. Preparations for her arrival have already started.

She'll be the second international pin-up girl to come to India early next year. In January 2009, Barbara Mori will come down to Mumbai for Hrithik Roshan. In February, it's Carmen Electra for Akshay Kumar.

"Are we in for one major international sizzler for every month in the calendar next year?" jokes the source, confirming Carmen's presence in Mumbai on Feb 10.

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"Despite recession, Dostana has performed well globally" - Karan Johar

Karan Johar is indeed a happy man. His Dostana has worked and how. Defeating the stereotype, going completely unconventional, boasting of hot bods and eventually making a statement, though in its own subtle manner and humorous undertones, Dostana is now being branded as the first ever hardcore commercial film that has explored relationship between two people of the same sex.

Joginder Tuteja gets into an exclusive conversation with Karan as the film completes its successful first week run and is all headed for quite some bountiful in days to come. Here Karan talks about the success of the film, it's prospects in days to come with Yuuvraaj being a biggie to compete (he dislikes the very essence of competition here though) while also defending the mixed response that the two halves of the film and Bobby's presence has got from audience as well as media.

The trend of a Dharma Production doing particularly well in cities has continued with Dostana too, right?
I have great faith in my audience and even while making Dostana, we knew that the film is mainly looking at big cities business. We understand the kind of demographics we were catering at. This is why in the overseas too it has been such a big success. I am particularly gladdened by the fact that despite recession, the film has performed globally. All those talks of economic meltdown affecting film business as well have been evaporated with the collections of Dostana which has taken one of the best opening weeks in last so many months.

But did you actually see such success coming?
The responses I received on Day One made sure that Dostana was headed in the right direction. Of course every movie comes with feedback which represents two sides of the same coin. Even in case of Dostana, there was positive as well as negative feedback. Some loved it but some hated it too. That's ok, its show business and this is why we are here for. What is overwhelming is that those who loved the movie far surpassed the ones who didn't. The collections for the films only convey the same!

So how much does the success of Dostana eventually mean to you?
It absolutely means a lot to me because first and foremost it is a validation of all the hard work from the team. Also, the brand image that Dharma Productions stands for has been taken care of after Dostana. I had to maintain a quality of production house and I am glad that the film has only added on to it.

Beyond the obvious drool factor, did you actually believe that John would be able to deliver as an actor as well?
My film is about a gay couple. The two men had to be macho and yet come with a great sense of humor. John just fitted the bill since beneath a great body, he also has a good comic timing. I had seen him in Garam Masala and knew that he would fit in well. Priyadarshan did tap his comic side slightly but I wanted him to go full on. I knew from my heart that John could be very funny. I just told Tarun that 'hey, let's go and get on John. He can pull on comedy.' The next thing we knew, he was on board!

Bobby's presence in the film has met with a mixed response though.
I respect your point of view but then as a filmmaker you can't always cater to everyone's sensibilities. If you ask me, it was a tough role for Bobby to play and he pulled it off rather amazingly well. He was so sincere and his dedication showed. He brings in a certain dignity to the proceedings.

Second half v/s first half debate has been on as well. It has been unanimously acknowledged that first half is a riot though things are just not the same in the second half.
There have been point of views and there will be point of views. I respect them all. At the end of the day, the whole package is meant to entertain you and in this context, Dostana has succeeded, isn't it? Look at it this way. The film is about life, love and friendship and while between the two halves of the film, each of these elements had to make their presence felt. This is why I stand by every frame of the film. After all, creativity follows its own process, right?

Though you sound confident about the film's prospects in weeks to come as well, this weekend would be crucial considering Yuvvraaj is coming. How much of it is a competition by the way?
I am hoping that both the films do really well. I know for sure that Yuvvraaj too is touted to be heavy on multiplexes. I really hope and pray for Subhashji that it works as well as Dostana continues to keep entertaining the audience. I don't even want to be competitive when it comes to these two films.

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B.O. update: 'Yuvvraaj' 40% - 60% start, 'Dostana' 1st wk nett 28 cr.

Subhash Ghai's ambitious fare YUVVRAAJ started well in the morning shows. The shows in parts of Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and NCR were almost packed, but the noon shows showed a decline as the film performed in the 40% - 60% range. The film picked up during the evening shows, but it remains to be seen where it tilts on Saturday and Sunday. YUVVRAAJ is crucial for both, Ghai and Salman Khan, who've been facing rough weather professionally.

Meanwhile, last week's DOSTANA was rock-steady on Friday, the first day of its second weekend. The trade is hopeful that the business will be strong on Saturday and Sunday as well. The first week nett [India] is approx. Rs. 28 crores [as per Dharma Productions]. Fantastic!

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Priyanka Chopra Named 'Goddess of Atlantis'

Uber sexy Priyanka Chopra is riding high after the success of her latest films, ‘Fashion’ and ‘Dostana’ and the accolades keep coming as Miss Chopra has been named the ‘Goddess of Atlantis’ to represent the new resort Atlantis, The Palms in Dubai! Priyanka was decked out as a goddess to introduce ‘Atlantis Rising,’ a grand fireworks display to unveil the resort last night.

And get this – the fireworks show was created by the same people behind the ones at the Beijing Olympics!

At the grand gala Priyanka was joined by tons of VIP guests from Hollywood including, Denzel Washington, Robert De Niro, Lindsay Lohan, Gerard Butler, Janet Jackson, Lily Allen and Michael Jordan! That’s not all; Aussie pop tart Kylie Minogue performed and Lindsay Lohan’s girlfriend Samantha Ronson hosted a special segment at the unveiling.

Plus some of India’s richest families were present for the festivities including the Ambanis, Moranis, and Hindujas. Dubai’s not known to be one of the richest cities in the world for nothing! The whole shebang set the resort back $40 million! If the party itself cost that much, we wonder how much Priyanka got paid!

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Bachchans, Hrithik, Preity & 'Rock On' team at Live Earth India concert

On July 7, 2007 (07/07/07), Live Earth, the concert for the crisis in the world climate, became the largest global entertainment event in the history, with simultaneous concerts being conducted in New York, London, Sydney, Tokyo, Shanghai, Rio de Janeiro, Johannesburg and Hamburg, and reaching an estimated audience of 2 billion people worldwide. This year the Live Earth India concert is expected to see a star-studded line up of the best performers from India and abroad.

Live Earth organizers announced an extensive list of superstars who will be participants during the upcoming Live Earth India concert scheduled to take place in Mumbai on December 7, 2008. Joining Live Earth India spokesperson, Amitabh Bachchan, and American rockstar Bon Jovi are the global list of superstars that includes Roger Waters, Will.i.am, Anoushka Shankar, Abhishek Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Hrithik Roshan, Preity Zinta, Bipasha Basu, Shiamak Davar, Farhan Akhtar, Arjun Rampal, Purab Kohli, Hard Kaur, Vishal-Shekhar, Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, Sunidhi Chauhan, Sonu Nigam and Shaan.

Globally produced by Control Room and in partnership with India promoter and producers, Wizcraft International Entertainment, the concert will feature never-seen-before collaboration of western and Indian artists, a variety of musical genres from Indian to hip-hop to American rock. Appearances and messages from former U.S Vice President, Al Gore, IPCC Chairman and Director General TERI India, Rajendra K Pachauri, environmental advocates and celebrities are expected as well. Live Earth India will highlight personal and policy solutions to the climate crisis, offer support for India's more important environmental issues and causes, and provide a platform for India to consolidate its leadership role on climate issues.

"Live Earth's mission is to leverage the power of music and entertainment to focus the world's attention on the most pressing environmental issues of our time and then actively affect change. The addition of these celebrated and influential artists will increase the force of our event and shine a spotlight on the challenges and opportunities surrounding climate change issues in India. This is why Live Earth India is supporting TERI's 'Light a Billion Lives' campaign to provide solar lighting to millions of rural households and The Climate Project India's educational campaigns," said Kevin Wall, Live Earth founder.

The Live Earth India concert will reach millions of viewers worldwide through a simulcast on three channels of Star TV: Star Plus, Star World and Channel V.

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Yuvraaj - Movie Review

Every step you take, every move you make... we'll be watchin' you. Have altered the lines of a famous song. For, this one's applicable for Subhash Ghai, a proficient storyteller, one of the most successful stories from this side of the Atlantic. Irrespective of how his films are received at the ticket window, Ghai's movies are always under scrutiny. You watch every film with a magnifying glass.

YUVVRAAJ is no exception!

Ghai's forte has been drama. Recall the dramatic moments in KARZ, VIDHAATA, MERI JUNG, RAM LAKHAN, KARMA, SAUDAGAR. He re-visits the genre with YUVVRAAJ. Besides, YUVVRAAJ is his most opulent work thus far. It has a sweeping effect, the film makes a stunning visual statement.

Honestly, YUVVRAAJ isn't Ghai's best work, but post YAADEIN, KISNA and BLACK & WHITE, YUVVRAAJ salvages him, even redeems the storyteller.

The story [Ghai] mirrors a universal truth. Greed leads to disputes and in turn, ruins all relationships. A fact you've heard or witnessed time and again in real life. While the story is captivating, the screenplay doesn't really do justice to the thought. Also, Rahman's music acts as a soothing balm, but the problem is, it takes time to grow on the listener. And that could be a deterrent.

Yet, in all fairness, YUVVRAAJ is a notch above the commonplace. If you intend spending your hard-earned money on it or devoting 3 hours of your precious time on Ghai's new outing, chances are you won't regret it.

Deven Yuvvraaj [Salman Khan] is a chorus singer, in love with Anushka [Katrina Kaif]. Her father Dr. Banton [Boman Irani], however, is dead against this relationship. Things take a turn when Deven's father passes away and he returns to London to stake claim on his father's wealth.

He meets his two estranged brothers Gyanesh Yuvvraaj [Anil Kapoor] and Danny Yuvvraaj [Zayed Khan] after almost twelve years. But things aren't hunky-dory between them...

Ghai has an eye for visuals and every frame of YUVVRAAJ seems like a painting on celluloid. Unmistakably, that's the first thing you notice as YUVVRAAJ unfolds.

It takes time to absorb YUVVRAAJ. In fact, Ghai doesn't open all his cards at the very outset. It's only when the father [Javed Shaikh] passes away and Mithun Chakraborty, the Executor of the Will, enters the scene that the wheels start moving.

The film gathers momentum after the interval. If the first hour has a few by-now-famous Ghai scenes, the second hour sees Ghai in form, with a number of sequences staying in your memory. The penultimate 20-25 minutes are the best. Watch Anil go through the handycam with disbelief, watch Anil and Salman's act during the concert, watch Salman's emotional outburst towards the end... also the titles [brings back memories of OM SHANTI OM].

On the flip side, the screenplay is erratic. There're constant highs and lows in this journey, the film works in patches. In fact, the screenplay falls prey to predictability and mediocrity at places.

Ghai handles the dramatic scenes with flourish. Rahman's music is soothing, but you expect more because Ghai's movies are embellished with lilting music that you recall even after 2 or 3 decades. Kabir Lal captures the striking beauty of Europe well. The output is superb. The sets [Omung Kumar] are truly majestic.

YUVVRAAJ belongs to Anil Kapoor, who towers above the entire cast and delivers a natural, believable performance. Salman's looks are inconsistent. At times the boyish look is intact, at times he looks bloated. Ditto for his hairstyle. His performance, however, is better, mainly towards the finale. Zayed tries hard and convinces in a few scenes. Mithun Chakraborty is fantastic in a brief role.

Katrina looks angelic. Despite the focus being on the three men, she registers an impact. Boman Irani is credible, especially in the scene when he steps out of the Operation Theatre towards the end. Aushima Sawhney is confident. Anjan Srivastava and the pack of villains/vamps look straight out of RAM LAKHAN and TAAL.

On the whole, YUVVRAAJ is interesting in parts, with the penultimate 20/25 minutes taking the film to an all-time high. At the box-office, the package [a mammoth cast, Subhash Ghai, A.R. Rahman, the stunning locales of Europe] should ensure a hearty opening and with no major opposition in the forthcoming week, it should keep its investors smiling.

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Kangna Ranaut features in the November issue of Seventeen

We are sure that you must be knowing 'What women want' like the back of your hand. Well, now its time to know 'What a girl wants'. And if the girl is the smashing and swish-buckling Kangna Ranaut, then you better know what she wants! Kangna features on the cover of the famous fashion magazine 'Seventeen' with her trademark (or should we say 'patented') Rapunzel-like tress, that beats everyone's stress!

Kangna, on her own admission, speaks (read 'confesses') that she was never a lazy child as she was always up to something. No wonder then, when she started acting, she just did not want to get settled as a mediocre actor. She also goes on to say that after 3-4 movies more, she might just take the plunge into direction and writing screenplays! This once upon a time wannabe-Prime-Minister-would be- Indira Gandhi, simply sweeps you by your feet as she says that the day she becomes the Prime Minister, she will change everything!

Her wisdom talks just do not end here. You can now read more about Kangna, only in the recent issue of 'Seventeen'!

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Sush will celebrate her birthday in Goa

Sushmita is turning 33 today. She talks about men, marriages and movies.

Actress Sushmita Sen, who will celebrate her 33rd birthday in Goa on Wednesday, says she isn’t looking for romance. Despite having a string of affairs behind her, she also says she doesn’t dump men.

“Let's just say I’m single and ready to mingle... does that sound too trite? I’m beyond that stage where I have to party and be with 500 people to feel special. Every moment is special and I need no endorsement for it from the outside. Just being with the people who really matter to me is celebration enough,” said Sushmita.

But why does she get tired of all her relationships? “You mean, do I dump the men? That’s not true. Initially, everything is hunky-dory in a relationship. Then there has to be some dori (thread) to hold the hunky guy in the relationship. If not, then move on.”
Talking about marriage, she says, “Marriage hasn't happened. It will happen when it happens. What guarantee is there that after getting into marriage and after 20 years of togetherness, I won’t discover it was the wrong move for me?”
Right now she is in Goa with her birthday entourage, which consists of 17 very close family members and friends, including, of course, daughter Renee who at the moment occupies centre stage in Sushmita's life.

Sushmita saw Madhur Bhandarkar’s Fashion and fell for it. “I’d say some of it is definitely authentic. I’ve been a part of that world. And I know it’s not easy to maintain your equilibrium. What really blew my mind were the performances of Priyanka Chopra, Kangana Ranaut and the new girl (Mugdha Godse). This is one film I’d have liked to be part of.”

Talk veers towards Dev Anand, who turned 84 recently. “I’m inspired by his zest for life. And more than that, his dignity. He deserves all the adulation. He is extremely charming. I don’t know whether I’ll live that long. But if I do, I want to be as charming as Dev saab . But it’s
impossible for me to go on that long. I’m on fast-burn all the time. As long as I live my life to the hilt, I'm fine.” The actress is currently busy with Rani Laxmibai which is being produced by her production house Tantra Productions.

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Bebo crashes!

An overworked Kareena finally laid lowKareena Kapoor might not make it for Golmaal Returns' success party tonight at Vie Lounge in Juhu. She's down with a raging fever and a throat infection.

On Sunday night, Kareena attended an event at Parel and collapsed after coming home. Says Bebo, "I am in awful shape right now. I am burning with a 101°C fever. I have a throat infection. After attending the event on Sunday, things became so bad that I collapsed after coming home. I was in such terrible shape that my mom had to call in the doctor. He's giving me injections so that I can at least stand on my feet."

Says Kareena. "I think my collapse has been caused by overwork and exhaustion. I have been working non-stop for the last 6 months round the clock. Even if I get half a day off, I am shooting for some ad or the other. I can't talk. I had to cancel Sajid Nadiadwala's (Kambakht Ishq) shoot yesterday. My body is acting up as I have constantly been working 20 hours a day. When mom heard I was going for the shoot yesterday, she forbade me from doing so. She's horrified and has been scream- ing at Zayed (Bebo's secretary) and me to stop over-stressing myself."

Will Kareena attend tonight's success party? "Not as of now. It all depends on my health. I am shooting for Kambakht Ishq at Afghan Church tomorrow but I haven't told mom as yet about it. If I tell her, she will scold me again. In fact we were to shoot an underwater sequ-ence at Film City, which will now have to shot later as I can't shoot underwater now."

Kareena says she's shooting so much that she doesn't have a break at all now. "I will have to go straight from my shoot to the airport for Karan's (Johar) film in USA on November 23. Saif is also there but I think we will take a break for a week in mid-December. I will come home for Christmas and New Year's Eve. I had been offered lots of money to perform for New Year's Eve but I have refused them as I think it's tacky."

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Mallika joins ranks with Hayek

She may keep a low profile here, but Mallika Sherawat is creating waves
abroad.

The diva is a recipient of the US-based Multicultural Motion Picture Association’s Diversity Awards and is flying to attend a star-studded gala dinner this Sunday in California.

Mallika, who will be presented the 2008 Renaissance Artist Award — given to artists of diverse creative talents worldwide, will join other international celebs from the film and television industry at the Universal Studios’ Global Theatre for the presentation ceremony.
The citation behind the award states it is bestowed for the recipients’ “distinctive on-screen persona that is uniquely their own and allows their character depictions to bring audiences from laughter to tears”.

A surprised Mallika told BT, “I thought it was a hoax! But then I said stranger things than an Indian actress getting an award in Hollywood have happened... like a handsome black man in the White House!”

Past recipients of the award include top Hollywood actresses like Salma Hayek, Halle Berry, and Monica Belluci. Mallika said modestly, “I’m certainly not in their league yet, but hopefully in ten years — when I’ve worked as long as they have, I’ll have a body of work that’s as good.”

Meanwhile, after The Myth with Jackie Chan, the actress is doing Hiss for Hollywood with Jennifer Lynch and Robert Kurtzman. “It’s going to shock the hell out of you, but you will be entertained,” Mallika promised.

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"I am tragedy queen"

Her car has more baggage in it than a mini department store.

But that’s home on the go for Katrina Kaif, who occupies the topmost echelon in Bollywood today. She’s just back from Goa where she was up all night shooting. “The best part of my day is when I’m alone in the car and I switch on my iPod and just chill out,” she reveals.

“I don’t take any calls. If I really like a song, I’ll hear that and only that for a week. Then the next week, what I’ll listen to will be light years away. The music of Yuvvraaj is like that. When Subhashji came into my van and gave me the album, I heard a song and my instant reaction was to hear it again. Rahmansaab has that quality in his music; it has many layers to it.”

She trained to mock-play the cello for Yuvvraaj. It would have taken her two years to master the real thing, Katrina accepts, but she had to maintain some sort of pretence while going through the motions on screen. When she did try to actually play the cello, the resultant noise, she says, was akin to stepping on a cat’s tail!

She grew up on Gene Kelly and Fred Astaire movies and loved that sense of grandeur and the song sequences with their coordinated movements. “They were very theatrical. And that’s why I wanted to be a part of Subhashji’s film, with its grand, sweeping visuals...” she trails off. “Subhashji doesn’t give you a bound script. He directs you through every scene and every shot. You have to trust him; it’s his vision and his baby and I just follow his guidance.”

From reel to real, Cancerians are supposed to be able to bring passion and drive to whatever they do... “That’s true. We’re also secretive, loyal and sensitive,” she adds, “... and a bit of drama queens... private drama queens. No, drama isn’t the word. Actually, it’s tragedy queens! Everything is a great big tragedy. You get your heart broken and it’s like the end of the world,” she says, rolling her eyes. “I think we take everything personally. We hate taking small decisions, we crave security, and

I don’t think we can ever NOT have an anchor in life.” And what of the Katrina with the tough shell? “That’s the side of me when I’m in a place where I’m not entirely comfortable, so that difficult exterior does go up. But when I’m comfortable, I’m having fun 90 per cent of the time. If I’m enjoying myself on the set and feeling good, I never see my van, unless it’s freezing cold or boiling hot.”

Speaking about showbiz, she admits, “Actors get almost schizophrenic after a while. There is the person they are, their nature and then there is the person they have adapted themselves to be in the limelight. When I’m away from the sets, I don’t wear makeup, I’m not bothered about my hair or my clothes. When I’m away from the films, it’s my downtime.”

And, coming back to Yuvvraaj... and Salman Khan, the yuvraj on screen and in her life. “My favourite scenes are definitely the ones between Salman and me. We are a romantic couple in the film and I was nervous about how that would come up. We have done two films together that were successful, like Partner and Maine Pyar Kyun Kiya, and I didn’t want anything to look forced. But the movements have been spontaneous, they have a certain amount of freshness to them, and that comes across. It was natural. I hope the audience agrees with me!” she says.

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India's Sexiest Dad Arjun Rampal

2008 has been a great year for Arjun Rampal. He's had two hits this year and he will be rubbing shoulders with Holly-wood stars, Robert Di Niro, Charlize Theron, Denzel Washington and Oprah Winfrey at the launch party of the Atlantis, The Palm hotel in Dubai on November 20. The cherry on the cake? He has snapped up the title of India's Sexiest Dad by Ok! magazine, from right under the nose of Hrithik Roshan. Over to the sexy daddy…

How does it feel to win the title of India's Sexiest Dad?
It feels great! If people think I am that, then I would like to thank them.

Do you feel old?
I am still young (laughs) so I don't feel old on being called India's Sexiest Dad. It makes it more special. My daughters are too young to understand what sexy means. When my wife showed the Ok! magazine to Mahikaa, her hands went up to her mouth and she looked at me strangely. She associated it with sex! I cracked up laughing because at that point you realise that sexy is a much-exploited term.

Do you think you deserve this title?
Of course, I deserve this title!

Who do you feel is the sexiest dad in the world?
Well, I don't look at men (laughs again) so I would have to choose a sexy mom. The world's sexiest mom according to me is my wife, Mehr.

A basic requisite of being a good dad.
Giving unconditional love. I always make it a point to take out time for our daughters, Mahikaa and Myra. Every summer, I take two months off so I can travel with them. I don't take on work at the time.

Are you an indulgent or strict dad?
I spoil them and indulge their every whim. Mehr is not strict but she's the disciplinary factor in their lives. She sets the routine, which is very important. Yet we both are friends with them. We want our children to be open and not hide anything from us.

What's your first, most special memory of Mahikaa?
Mahikaa must have been the youngest baby to travel and get double passports. She was three months old when I was traveling for my world tour with Hrithik. Mahikaa was this fat pumpkin when we were in Orlando in the middle of a hailstorm. Hrithik, Sussanne and I were running to protect Mehr and Mahikaa from the hail and had wrap-ped a big sheet around them. When we reached the hotel, we thought Mahikaa would be very nervous but in all that chaos, she fell fast asleep!

One value that you have instilled in your children.
To be real and honest. I don't want them to be pretentious.

Their favourite star?
I am their favourite star. They watch all my films, love them and know all my songs.

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Cold Times

Everyone knows about the John Abraham-Salman Khan dushmani, which began two years ago during the Rockstars tour. The actors haven't come face-to-face since.

The actors found themselves at a food award event on Monday. John was given the snub, not just by Salman, but also by the organisers. The only saving grace was the public, who rooted and cheered for him.

A source in the event reveals, "Salman was asked to attend the event by Subhash Ghai, the director of Yuvvraaj. Salman was to hand out trophies to the contestants along with other film personalities like Ajay Devgan, Kajol and Kareena Kapoor. Salman was the first person to reach the venue, followed by Ajay, Kajol and Kareena. They were all seated on a big table with Ghai."

John walked in a few minutes and settled down at a table far from Salman & Co.

"John doesn't like public scenes and he kept to himself. He didn't even look in the direction of Sallu's table, where all the actors were chatting and laughing. Then the announcer called Sallu, Ajay, Kajol and Kareena on stage to inaugurate the event. John was never meant to go on the stage. He was attending the event as a guest, but the members of the audience who spotted him, started to holler his name and the oganisers had no other option but to call him on stage too. Once on stage, John and Salman looked through each other. After giving awards, John stayed back at the event while Salman made a quick exit," concludes the source.

Salman's spokesperson says, "John and Salman were sitting very far from each other and as Salman was there only for a few minutes he couldn't have found the time to exchange pleasantries with many present at the event."

John Abraham however says, "The event organisers didn't give me the cold shoulder. I was specifically called by them to hand an award and I was even given a particular time to be there, which was way after the show had already started." On the reception he got from the crowd the modest actor says, "I think if you keep doing good work it has to pay off, right? I am very glad the audiences at the show were really nice to me and cheered me. It makes me really happy to know that people really appreciate good things."

Salman is not known to promote his films. The only reason he's doing it, is for Yuvvraaj, at the behest of the director, Subhash Ghai. At the event, after he handed out the trophies, he began looking here and there. Ghai asked him what he was looking for. Sallu excused himself to go to the loo. Ghai said okay and waited for the actor to return. But Sallu walked out of the hall, went straight to his car, and zoomed off.

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