Happy Birthday Preity Zinta!

Preity Zinta shared her birthday on January 31 with Amrita Arora. Preity was also the surprise guest at Amrita's theme party on the night of Jan 30. The two Aquarian girls even cut a cake together.

Says Preity, "Amrita is a really sweet girl and she has been inviting me every year in order to celebrate our birthday together. This year I said I had to go. Besides it was a theme party…wigs and hats. And I love hats. I am a very hat person. So I went in one of my favourite hats. Thank God I didn't wear the big blonde wig as I was planning to. Because the whole industry was there. How would I've looked?"

The fun-loving Aquarian side to Preity remains predominant. "All us Aquarians are gregarious and hassle-free. Maybe Abhishek, Urmila, Amrita, and I can have a collective birthday party next year. We are all chatterboxes. But I'm now learning to listen more carefully." Preity remains intact although she's now, in her own words, a better listener. "I have to be. I'm in all these board meetings for my cricket deal. And there I better shut up and listen. There's so much to learn."

Preity was in fact in a series of meetings on the eve of her birthday. "But on my birthday I've just decided to chill out. I'm at home watching a DVD, relaxing sleeping. Last year was a sad birthday for me. My dog had died. This year I've lots to look forward to. And I'm happy. The only thing that irritates me is the constant reference to my age from media persons."

Subash K Jha, Bollywood Hungama

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Akshay on a roll!Akshay on a roll!

The year 2007 clearly belonged to Akshay Kumar and 2008 promises to be no different.

But while last year witnessed Akki at his funniest best in comical avatars, this year will see the superstar reclaim his Action King status. It’s a homecoming of sorts for the Khiladi who’s back to his forte of beating up baddies and performing his signature death-defying stunts after a hiatus of almost four years.

And the actor’s fans have more reasons to rejoice as Akki has not one, but almost four action films under his belt, including Kambaqth Ishq, Rohan Sippy’s Chandni Chowk to China, Vipul Shah’s Singh is Kingg and Yash Chopra’s Tashan.

Talking about the break from his action image, Akshay says, "I just wanted to explore all aspects of the spectrum, right from comedy to emotions and not be slotted in a particular image. What I want to do is entertain. But action is always closer to heart. After all, action does speak louder than words, doesn’t it?"
So, did he miss doing action in all the years? "No, my son made sure I get enough of it," laughs Akki referring to son Aarav who keeps his ‘daadaa’ on toes. On a serious note he adds, "I keep myself fit as action needs a very high standard of concentration and strength, so I have not really been away from it. But, of course, sometimes you miss being the tough guy who can dishum dishum the world."

And though the actor confesses that being a family man does make him think twice before performing any stunt, he’s not wary of going in for any daredevilry. "It’s action that has made me what I am today and the show must go on. We are entertainers after all, right?" he quips. Was it difficult getting back to action? "Nah, not really! Don’t forget my middle name, before King was Khiladi. Action is in my blood," says the actor. "Action may have evolved manifold, but at the core it still remains the same!"

Talking about the sea change he’s witnessed in the past few years, Akki says, "The boys are men now and this is where the tough get going. So you need to be really fit to pull of daredevil stunts. We are being watched and compared to the best, so we better be up to it." And what does he find more difficult making people laugh or doing scary stunts? "A stunt is when you compete with yourself. You are in control, but in comedy, your performance depends on your audience, so I would say comedy is more difficult." Are there any actors he looks up to? "Tom and Jerry! They’re good at both action and comedy. I don’t think anyone can beat them," pat comes the reply.

Aakanksha Naval Shetye, TNN

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Kareena Kapoor to focus on her career for now!

Recently Kareena Kapoor unveiled the latest issue of Filmfare, at an event that featured the undisputed Queen of Bollywood on its cover. Kareena was also found sporting a huge diamond solitaire on her left hand, which led to a lot of speculation of her engagement to Saif Ali Khan, amongst a section of the media.

But a friend close to her clarifies "Bebo always had the ring and had been wearing it for some time now. And Kareena is in the best phase of her career and has exciting projects on hand. And she has no intention of getting married for the next five years. Both Saif and Kareena are enjoying and focusing on their respective career and have no intention of settling soon."

Kareena is considered as the undisputed claimant for the mantle of numero uno Actress in Bollywood with her slew of her forthcoming films like TASHAN with Yash Raj, AGENT VINOD, GOLMAAL RETURNS, KAMBAKTH ISHQ, film with John Abraham and a film with Karan Johar, etc.

Besides her films which will consolidate that position, 'Brand Kareena', like 'Brand SRK & Big B, is also known as the 'Endorsement Queen' in the endorsement bandwagon. Kareena's high profile endorsement brands consists of Globus, ICI Paints, Head & Shoulders, Boro plus cream, Citizen watch etc.

Kareena is truly riding the high waves of Bollywood!

Bollywood Trade News Network

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Karishma on a new high!

Karisma Kapur’s hubby Sunjay is a polo player, but Karisma herself finds the game a little "scary".

Looking as svelte and natty as ever, the lady was at a polo match in the city named after her daughter, Samaira. Was she there to add the glam quotient to the event? "No, I’m not here to add glam," she replied quickly. "I’m here because it’s a family event." But her already-famous little girl wasn’t accompanying her. "I’m flying back to Mumbai this evening," she said. "My daughter’s there, so I have to get back. She’s almost three now," she added.

She calls her daughter her greatest gift. "I think motherhood is something that changes every woman. It is a very good feeling. I enjoy every little moment with my daughter. Samaira is too young to follow either films or sports, but she loves to be around horses." Karisma laughed, "And she is an avid artist. Just give her a paper and colours and she goes on and on."

Usually reticent in public, Karisma was in a different mood there, making sure that every question was answered and every shot perfect. "I like polo, and I’ve seen so many matches now," she said with a smile. "But I also find it very scary. It’s a dangerous game, with the players riding very fast on horses that are also getting tired during the game," she explained. Someone asked her if she would be interested in playing the game herself joining a ladies’ team, perhaps? "Oh no!" she laughed. And what’s her sport of choice? "Well I used to swim a lot," she answered after a pause. "I never competed, but I used to do it quite a lot, so I guess that was my sporting activity."

She steadfastly refused to answer questions about Saif and sis Kareena, moving away with a polite ‘thank you’ every time one came her way. "It is an intensely private matter for both of them and I don’t think I should say anything," she explained.

And what about a comeback to movies? "I do receive a lot of offers, but I can’t just do any film. It has to be a good story, a good script something that really touches my heart," she said.

TNN

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Tashan pics leaked! Take a look

Its not rocket science that the whole of Bollywood is eagerly waiting for Tashan, Yash Raj Films' trump card of 2008. And there are more reasons than one for this eager anticipation. The first being the glamorously glam avtaar of all the lead stars. Then there was news about Kareena's bikini sequence in the film.

If these weren't enough, a leading city tabloid got an email from a certain Rozza (here's requesting you to run your imaginations wild like us figuring out who this Rozza could be) about some highly confidential snaps of Kareena and Saif which were shot while they were in Greece…shooting for the film, but of course! We wonder as to who this miscreant is who tagged them along all the way till Greece, only to shoot them shooting?

Photo leaks or no photo leaks, we are firmly placing our bets on Tashan and would also advise you also to do the same, as we are sure that it is nothing short of a 'Saif' bet! What say Kareena?


Image Courtesy: Mid-Day | Source: Bollywood Hungama

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'I'm not getting married for the next five years'

Known for his Casanova image Saif has been completely bowled over by his ladylove Kareena and has decided to become one-woman man. The duo is so much in love that they aren't too conscious of even their public display of emotion.

Last night when Kareena was invited for the Filmfare cover launch at Vie Lounge, Juhu, she was accompanied by boyfriend Saif Ali Khan, who dropped her and came to fetch her once the event was over.

The couple pulled over in Saif's black BMW, and post the event headed to a suburbian 5-star hotel.

As usual, Kareena was comfortable dealing with personal questions posed to her by the media. When asked about her marriage plans, she said, "I am not getting married for the next five years."

An industry insider informs us that Saif is very possessive about Kareena. "He is madly in love with her and can go to any extend to prove his love. He also wants to express his commitment and marriage plans later on this year. But Kareena is on career high, and wants to enjoy her career and success."

Bebo chose to keep silent about her back stage meet with Shahid at the Star Screen Awards. She was also not comfortable talking about Saif's son, Ibrahim, whom she has been spotted with very often these days. After the launch and speaking with media she waited for Saif to fetch her. Exactly after twenty minutes, Saif arrived like a prince from a fairy tale book to take back his princess in waiting.

Reshma Kelkar, Indiatimes Movies

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Is Salman marrying this year ?

That’s the strong buzz doing the rounds. Apparently before the year ends, Sallu miyan will get married to his sweetheart Katrina Kaif.

Finally, he has complied to the pleas and demands and made an earnest promise to his family, especially his mother Salma and dad Salim, that he is willing to sacrifice his bachelorhood at the alter this year.

If the insider informed us right, Salman’s parents have made a final peremptory plea to the actor saying they want to see him happily married with kids. And man! Sallu acceded without much fuss.

Marriage and Salman have always seemed poles apart so it won’t be a surprise if he changes his mind again, some say. “He promised his parents that he will marry this year. Hope he doesn’t change his mind. Knowing him, anything is possible,” says the source.

Even if it is a good news for his well-wishers, it certainly isn’t going to go down well with his female admirers. And why not? With one of the good-looking bachelors in Bollywood giving up his bachelorhood, it’s certainly going to be a disappointment for the girls!

TNN

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I never knew French people also knew me: Shah Rukh

Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan, who was conferred the 'Officer of the Order of Arts and Letters' title by the French government yesterday, admitted that he did not know he was popular in France.

"I came to know that people in UK knew me after I travelled there. But I never knew people in France also knew about me," Shah Rukh Khan said, prior to the function in a suburban hotel where he was awarded the title last night.

"I am proud we have taken our culture and identity to France through the medium of our films," the superstar said.
The title was conferred to Khan by Jerome Bonnafont, French Ambassador in India, at the inaugural ceremony of a four-day French film festival.

Admitting to having a French connection, Khan said he used to go to the French Cultural Centre in Delhi to watch their movies since he was told it was the best cinema. "But I also used to watch it for the lovemaking scenes," he quipped.

The star also said he had not thought about acting in foreign films as he had not been offered any yet.

The actor, who had a good year in 2007 with runaway hits 'Chak De! India' and his home-production 'Om Shanti Om', was conferred the award in recognition of his 15-year-long career in the Hindi film industry.

The 'Order of Arts et Lettres' is one of the four Ministerial Honours of the French republic and was established
In 1957 to reward artists who gained fame for their works in the field of arts and literature and have promoted these fields.

Hindustan Times

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Winners of Max Stardust Awards 2008

STAR OF THE YEAR - MALE
Akshay Kumar (Heyy Babyy / Namastey London)

STAR OF THE YEAR – FEMALE
Kareena Kapoor (Jab We Met)

EDITOR'S CHOICE AWARDS FOR BEST ACTOR
Shahid Kapoor (Jab We Met)

BEST FILM AWARD
Jab We Met

THE DREAM DIRECTOR AWARD
Farah Khan (Om Shanti Om)

STANDOUT PERFORMANCE OF THE YEAR
Vivek Oberoi (Shootout At Lokhandwala)

ACTOR PAR EXCELLENCE
Dharmendra

BEST ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE
Irrfaan Khan (The Namesake)

BEST ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE
Tisca Chopra (Taare Zameen Par)

BEST ACTOR IN A NEGATIVE ROLE – MALE
Arjun Rampal (Om Shanti Om)

SUPERSTAR OF TOMMOROW - MALE
Ranbir Kapoor (Saawariya)

SUPERSTAR OF TOMMOROW - FEMALE
Sonam Kapoor (Saawariya)

HOTTEST FILM PRODUCER
Anil Kapoor (Gandhi My Father)

HOTTEST YOUNG FILM MAKER
Shimit Amin (Chak De India)

BREAKTHROUGH PERFORMANCE – MALE
Shreyas Talpade (Om Shanti Om)

BREAKTHROUGH PERFORMANCE – FEMALE
Kangana Ranaut (Life... In a Metro)

THE NEW MENACE
Shilpa Shukla – (Chak De India)

STANDOUT PERFORMANCE BY LYRICIST
Sandeep Nath – Saawariya ('Yoon Shabnami Pehle Nahi Thi Chandni')

NEW MUSICAL SENSATION – FEMALE
Anoushka Manchanda – Cash (Aye Chori)

NEW MUSICAL SENSATION – MALE
Krishna & Salim Merchant – Chak De India (Maula Mere)

STANDOUT PERFORMANCE BY A MUSIC DIRECTOR
Monty Sharma (Saawariya)

Bollywood Hungama

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Madhuri dixit feels proud and honoured for Padma Shri

Bollywood actor Madhuri Dixit today said she was proud and happy to be honoured with the ‘Padma Vibhushan’ award.

Her secretary Rakeshnath alias Rikku said ‘’she was extremely happy to receive the news in Denver in US, where she is settled”.

”Madhuri told me that her entire career, beginning as a struggling teenager in the film industry till she attained superstardom came as a flash in front of her eyes when she heard of the news,” Rikku informed.

He said Madhuri will definitely come down to India to receive the award.

The actress, after marriage, made a comeback in Yashraj films’ ‘Aaja Nachle’ in 2007 but the film flopped at the box office.

UNI

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SRK joins the league of Celine Dion, Leonardo Di Caprio

What would you get when you combine the Brand Ambassador of Romance and the God's very own Kingdom of Love? The answer is 'Rendezvous'! This is exactly what had taken place at the Grand Hyatt, Mumbai, when the French Embassy, in collaboration with Unifrance inaugurated the 1st Rendez-vous with French Cinema.

The USP of the event was undoubtedly the 'Brand Ambassador of Romance' Shah Rukh Khan himself, who was conferred the prestigious 'Insignia of Officer in the Order of Arts & Letters'. With this, the King Khan joins the league of the previous awardees like Arundhati Roy, David Bowie, Celine Dion, Bob Dylan, Leonardo Di Caprio, Robert Redford to name a few. Also, present on the occasion were Verenioque Cayla, Managing Director-CNC, Jerome Seydoux-Chairman of Pathe.

Even though the event was nothing short of a visual treat, but what really took the cake was the Q & A round with the King Khan. Needless to say that SRK was in his elements and was ready with an answer (read 'repartee') to every question, even before the question would have popped up in the person's mind. When asked about his take on the French cinema, SRK said "It's just a beginning. I feel too humble for this huge honour. I feel that I am taking the Indian Cinema much beyond as a career." He also drove home a few examples to explain that cinema is cinema, irrespective of the language. Not only that, SRK also got nostalgic about his first ever visit to France (which was for Devdas) and the second time for Veer Zaara. When asked about his popularity in France and his acceptance, he resembled a personified version of humbleness and modesty, as he said that "It's not me who is popular in France. It's the Indian Cinema which is popular and I am just a part of the Indian Cinema!" He also did not rule out the possibility of a French film, but with a right script and at the right time!

Echoing SRK's sentiments and statements was His Excellency Jerome Bonnfont, the Ambassador of France in India, who said "We want to marry the Indian and the French cinema, which will take some time, but, will happen for sure!" He also added that this kind of 'Rendez-Vous' will happen every year.



Bollywood Hungama

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Bollywood diva Madhuri named for Padmi Shri

Bollywood actress Madhuri Dixit, who won many hearts with her million-dollar-smile and returned to the silver screen with Aaja Nachle after a five-year hiatus last year, has been named among the Padma Shri awardees this year.

The ravishing actress has several hits to her credit, including Tezaab, Dil, Dil To Pagal Hain and Devdas.

Though her comeback film, after marriage to a US-based doctor and two kids, proved to be a dud at the box office, Madhuri remained unfazed. "I have never been a part of number game and we are not the racing horses who should be numbered. Either the work you do is good or bad. I have come back not because I miss the media archlights or being written about... it's secondary. I missed my craft!" she was quoted as saying.

Madhuri forayed into filmdom with Abodh in 1986 and was catapulted to fame with the hit dance number Ek Do Teen... in Tezaab (1988).

There was no looking back for Madhuri who went on to give a string of hits like Dayavan and Ram Lakhan. She bagged the Filmfare Best Actress Award for her performance in Dil, in which she starred opposite Aamir Khan. She once again walked away with the coveted award for her role in "Beta".

Madhuri's electrifying dance number Choli ke peechche... in Khalnayak proved a huge hit and her fan following simply soared.

She repeated the success story in Bollywood blockbuster Hum Aapke Hain Koun, where she shared screen space with Salman Khan and bagged yet another Filmfare. Her powerful performance in mega hit Dil To Pagal Hai won her a fourth best actress award.

The dancing diva also charmed renowned Indian painter MF Hussain, who cast her in his film Gaja Gamini.

In 2001, Madhuri was awarded the National Citizens Award, which recognises excellence in various activities affecting national life. The very next year she starred in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's mega-budget Devdas with Shah Rukh Khan and Aishwarya Rai. Not only did her acting earn rave reviews, she also bagged a Filmfare Award for best supporting actress.

It was after Devdas that she decided to take a break from Bollywood and devote more time to her family in the US.

Hinsutan Times

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Rajinikanth to woo Tabu

In 2008, Rajinikanth will be seen in a new bilingual film titled Kuselan. The film is being made in Tamil and Telegu. Rajini’s co-actor in the Tamil version is Pasupathy. Jagapathi Babu will be his co-star for the Telugu version.

K Balchander is producing the film in Tamil. But the female leads are still to be finalised. Currently Tabu and Simran have been short-listed. . The final decision will be taken very soon as the film will go on the floors in February. The shoot is expected to be completed by June.

(With inputs from Galatta.com)

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Ness & I are fine: Preity Zinta

The break up rumours about Preity Zinta and Ness Wadia got a huge set back when the duo won the franchisee right for the Indian Premier League team from Mohali in Punjab for $76 million.

The perky actress is currently concentrating on changing her image in bollywood, she has now moved to doing more serious roles as she has reached a different stage in her career.

However there have been rumours that Preity has lately been very busy with work and hence she hardly has time for boyfriend Ness Wadia.

Some sources had claimed that the couple, who has been together for three years, had a spat on the sets of Zinta’s new film Heaven On Earth when she was shooting in Toronto. But Preity claims "Ness and I are together, thank you very much. We are happy. There are no problems between us"

“I don’t know where these stories originate from. A few months ago, it was said that Ness and I were getting married and now it’s being said that he and I have split.” She sarcastically adds.

Preity is making a conscious decision to move away from her glamorous roles right now. She is currently doing a strong role in Deepa Mehta's film where she plays a battered Punjabi wife.

Santabanta

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Aishwarya Rai launches Lux's new soap Provocateur

'Lux Provocateur' Hindustan Unilever's latest offering, is all set to capture women's unfettered imagination. A fairyland glitzy and fun event marked the launch of the 'Lux Provocateur' in the city today at the hands of Bollywood's reigning queen, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. Lux Provocateur is a seductive bathing bar with a bold fragrance that reminds one of black roses and violets!

The black, fragrant soap, encased in bold and shiny black met its ideal match in Lux Ambassador, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan where the tantalising aroma of the unusual black bars complemented the mysterious and remote beauty of Aishwarya. Launching the 'Lux Provocateur', Aishwarya said that the black soap bar was reminiscent of a bygone era of delicate, elusive scents, and women who seductively commanded attention by their mystery.

Constructed on a 'Fairyland' theme, the launch was redolent with the fragrance of black roses and violets seeped into the airy setting even as India's first black soap took guests by surprise. Even the dance recital by Sandeep Soparkar and Jesse Randhawa could not attract attention away from this.

Speaking on the occasion, HUL Marketing Manager for Skincare Products Mr. Srikanth Srinivasamadhavan said, "Lux has always focused on providing something unique to its consumers. The launch of 'Lux Provocateur' is another leap in that direction. Provocateur is a special creation, a product that calls for attention by its uniqueness in content, fragrance and colour."

Bollywood Hungama

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Aamir's virtual presence at Star Screen Awards

Aamir Khan is known for his firm beliefs as far as work is concerned and is also famous for not attending award functions because he feels that they're all rigged. At the recently held Nokia 14th Star Screen Awards, the organizers placed a huge cut-out of Aamir Khan's from his film, Taare Zameen Par, to make up for his absence at the function.

Host Sajid Khan also ended up making a dig at the actor's non-appearance during the award ceremony. In fact, when we spoke to Sajid about this, he said, "I only kept the cut-out of Aamir Khan amidst the audience" in his trademark humorous style. Aamir's latest release Taare Zameen Par bagged 17 nominations in the award function. Conspicuous by Aamir's absence, the organizers still wanted the audiences to feel his presence and hence each time his name was announced, the camera would move to Aamir's cut-out placed in the audience for his virtual presence.

The highlight of the evening was also the announcement of 'The Best Director Awards'. For the first time at an award function, 'The Best Director Award' went to not just one, but two well-deserving people, Aamir Khan for Taare Zameen Par and Shimit Amin for Chak De India. Well, one rare sight this must have been, what with a virtual Aamir Khan making his presence felt in the audience.

Bollywood Hungama

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SRK's dig at BCCI

He's got the IPL's Kolkata team to himself - and a victorious Shahrukh Khan has now taken a dig at the BCCI.

The 'Badshah' says no one should have objections if he goes to watch a match now.

Vintage Shahrukh was at his best as he took a potshot at the Indian cricket board yesterday, when it became apparent that Khan was still smarting from his run-in with the BCCI a few months ago when the board had implied that Shahrukh's attendance at cricket matches including the T20 final was a rather clever attempt to promote his film 'Om Shanti Om'

A furious Shahrukh had at that time anounced that he knew where he wasn't welcome.

"I would like all those who play cricket or football or hockey to not watch my films. I do not like it. This is a spectator sport - I think I was invited by the BCCI itself and I was very happy I went - but now I am a little sad," SRK had reacted on November 21, 2007.

But now, the proud owner of the Kolkata IPL team seems to be getting his come uppance and is enjoying every second of it.

"The one thing I hope that does not happen is that people think I am watching a cricket match to promote my film. I will be supporting my team," said SRK on Thursday evening to the press.

The Badshah of Bollywood certainly has a way with words, and if he has his way cricket, is all set to get a lot more entertaining whether the BCCI likes it or not.

Timesnow.tv

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SRK chucks Hockey, selects Cricket

Shah Rukh Khan surely hit a six straight out of the ground yesterday (Jan 24) when he bagged the ownership of the Kolkata team in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for a staggering $75.9 million (approx Rs. 296 crores).

King Khan who is an ardent sports lover, created a solid impact through his power-packed performance of a hockey-coach in the smash-hit Chak De India and brought our very own National sport hockey back into the reckoning. However, Shah Rukh soon shifted his loyalties towards the more popular sport cricket when he was seen cheering the 'Boys in Blue' as they created history winning the T20 World Cup in South Africa last September. He even made fleeting appearances at a few other One-day matches with his Om Shanti Om co-star, Deepika Padukone, and soon tongues started wagging that SRK is using cricket to promote his films. Before you could say SRK, he distanced himself from anything to do with cricket and even denied any intention of bidding for teams in IPL.

However, after much speculation and deliberation, Khan sprung a surprise when he was in the bidding process for cricket teams for the forthcoming IPL. What's more he along with friends Juhi Chawla and her husband Jai Mehta even bagged the ownership rights of Kolkata team for nearly Rs.300 crores yesterday.

Now with cricket back on King Khan's mind would hockey take a backseat? Your guess is as good as ours. In fact, as the artist of the above picture depicts, King Khan seems to be literally torn apart between Cricket and hockey even as he clearly makes his choice obvious.

Image Courtesy: Mid-Day
Source: Bollywood Hungama

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Saif's Tattoo tale

Saif Ali Khan finally revealed his love tattoo, although a bit reluctantly.

Saif has decided to wear his heart on his sleeve, and immortalise his three-month old relationship with Kareena Kapoor. He has been at pains to hide the tattoo, done in the Devanagiri script, a la David Beckham’s ‘Victoria’ tattoo.

But ahead of his jamming session with Parikrama at Bangalore, we got a sneak peek at it. The moment his jacket came off at the do – the proof of love was there. Kareena, who reportedly bullied him into getting the tattoo done, must be really proud!

TNN

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Shahid and SRK's hairy tales

Shahid hates being compared with SRK, simply because he thinks he has a long way to go before someone can even compare him to the King Khan. But there's still something common between them. And guess what the common thing between them is? Their common hairstylist, not many know that both of them share the same hairstylist.

In-fact once SRK had remarked that he is growing his hair simply because his hairstylist was on maternity leave and the same thing happened with Shahid. Their common hairstylist went on her second maternity leave and Shahid patiently waited for her return to cut his hair.

"I guess that's the only thing we have in common between us. Anyways, I love Shah Rukh Khan's hairstyle," he grins. And he finally got his chance before leaving for Australia.

Hairy tales, huh?

Indiatimes Movies

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Kareena in a Bikini

After Ash and Bipasha's hot and sizzling act in Dhoom 2, another Bollywood babe is getting ready to sizzle and set the screen on fire with her dare to bare act. And this time it's Bebo, she's unstoppable and how! For the first time, the Kapoor girl is getting ready to 'sizzle', 'fizzle' and 'rocked' in her new sexy avatar. Any guesses what is it? Well, guys, hold your breath... our sources from Greece where Kareena is currently shooting with her boyfriend Saif for Yash Chopra's Tashan reveals that say recently she did a shot a scene in a bikini.

"The scene was kept under wraps and not many were aware of it. But Kareena was preparing for it for months end. She was on a special diet and power yoga to lose weight. And the result was a new sexy Kareena. When she appeared wearing the bikini, jaws dropped on the sets," says a unit member from Greece.

We wonder how Saif reacted to it? "He's cool about it and was happy for Kareena, she has never looked so sexy and hot. The scene is going to be the main USP of the film," informs our source. The single shot shows Kareena in her bikini coming out of a swimming pool.

The heat is on and we are sure it will be a visual treat for all Kareena fans!

Gautam Buragohain, Indiatimes Movies

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SRK dances, charges a bomb

The King Khan may have got Hrithik and Rakesh Roshan to do OSO for free. But when the Roshans approached him for a cameo in their film, Krazzy 4 he didn't think twice before charging them a bomb.

And given Shah Rukh's popularity, Rakesh had little option but to shell out the amount.

Sources insist that Shah Rukh had demanded a little over a crore to be part of the song. Though no one is ready to confirm the figures it looks like Rakesh has had to cough up the dough.

The song has already been shot at Yashraj studios and took five days to be picturised. Composed by Rajesh Roshan, the breezy track is sung by Vishal Dadlani

Krazzy 4 is being directed by Raja Sen who has been Rakesh Roshan's assistant for a long time.

Unlike 2007, this year does not have any full-fledged Shah Rukh Khan releases. Bhoothnath and Dulha Mil Gaya of which he is a part are not exactly centred around him.

But then again to make crores even without a single release you have to be Shah Rukh Khan, don't you?

Johnny Vaz, Buzz18

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Ash replaces Deepika in Robot

If my sources are to be believed, this could well be the casting coup of the decade. It seems Deepika Padukone has been replaced in Shankar's magnum opus, Robot. And the coveted role is all set to go to Aishwarya. It happened like this. Shankar, I am told, did consider Ash for the part, but since Shah Rukh Khan was in the picture, Aishwarya was indecisive.

News about Deepika Padukone being seriously considered for the same have been doing the rounds for some time. But it seems that after Shah Rukh opted out of the project, Deepika's name dropped out too.

So Rajni stepped in. And being a good friend of the Bachchans, he approached Amitabh all over again. And a few meetings later, Ash was finally convinced.

Whew! As for Rajini and Ash fans, if this actually works out, Robot will definitely be the film to watch out for. For Ash, this heralds a homecoming of sorts of the actress post-Iruvar. And now, let's wait and watch for the real story and all the spicy details of this coup to emerge, shall we?

Buzz18

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Akshay Kumar: The highest paid actor in India!

Can you believe this? After churning out four hits in a row during 2007, Akshay Kumar is now charging over Rs 20 crore for a film!

Similarly, Akshay hit films during 2007 - the maximum by any actor in Bollywood - include HEYY BABYY, NAMASTE LONDON, BHOOL BHULAIYA and WELCOME. And, according to industry sources, Akshay has hiked his price and signed the next film by Venus Records for a whopping Rs 22 crore.

Although Akshay is far behind Amitabh Bachchan or Shah Rukh Khan as far as status value in the industry, success has not gone to the lad's head and he is neither interested in any competition with Big B or King Khan. On the other hand, sources close to Akshay say that he is inspired by Rajnikanth who has been charging Rs 16 crore per film following the runaway success of 'SHIVAJI - THE BOSS'. And Akki himself says that he is not too interested in past performances, but is working hard to give more hit films this year.

Akshay's consistency in delivering hit films has already earned him the title of 'Hindi Film Hit Machine' in Bollywood circles. If the films Akshay is doing now are any indication, the year ahead will see him doing a lot of action on celluloid. In fact, last year, most of Akki's movies were comedies.

Akshay's next film is Nikhil Advani's big budget adventure flick 'CHANDNI CHOWK TO CHINA' which depicts a part of the actor's life and is estimated to cost a whopping Rs 100 crore making it one of the most costliest films made so far! We sincerely, hope that the New Year will see Akki rising to greater heights in all regards.

Sampurn, Bollywood Trade News Network

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Aamir - SARFAROSH sequel viable!

In the age of remakes, actor perfectionist Aamir Khan has his own 'different' point of view on the subject, as always. The actor does not believe in remakes at all and gives a very valid reason for that; repetition! Aamir does not like to repeat himself or even copy other actors, however great their performance might have been in the original!

However, Aamir does not rule out the possibility of a sequel to one of his own films. He gives sequels a new terminology- Taking the story forward. As per the actor, producer and now director, the story of one of his favourite roles, that of ACP Rathod, in the hard hitting, SARFAROSH (1999), is still incomplete. The story ended at a point where Rathod was still alive and so were the other lead protagonists, and therefore he feels that the story can be developed and taken forward.

Interesting, one must say. Is the director of SARFAROSH, John Matthew Mathan listening?

Abid, Bollywood Trade News Network

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Kareena in a sexy avatar

After Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Bipasha Basu’s hot and sizzling act in Dhoom 2, another Bollywood babe is getting ready to sizzle and set the screen on fire with her dare-to-bare act.

And this time it’s Kareena Kapoor, she’s unstoppable and how! For the first time, the Kapoor girl is getting ready to sizzle and rock in her new sexy avatar. Any guesses what is it? Well, our sources from Greece where Kareena is currently shooting with her boyfriend Saif Ali Khan for Yash Chopra’s Tashan reveals that say recently she shot a scene in a bikini. “

The scene was kept under wraps and not many were aware of it. But Kareena was preparing for it for months end. She was on a special diet and doing power yoga to lose weight. And the result was a new, sexy Kareena. When she appeared wearing the bikini, jaws dropped on the sets,” says a unit member from Greece. We wonder how Saif reacted to it? “

He’s cool about it and was happy for Kareena, she has never looked so sexy and hot. The scene is going to be the main USP of the film,” informs our source. The single shot shows Kareena in her bikini coming out of a swimming pool. The heat is on and we are sure it will be a visual treat for all Kareena fans!

Gautam Buragohain, TNN

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Shahrukh Khan In Salman Kareena Starrer

Shahrukh Khan has agreed to do a guest appearance in the Salman Khan and Kareena Kapoor starrer Mr and Mrs Khanna.

It is reported that that Shahrukh Khan has not charged for the role. Preity Zinta and Deepika Padukone may also be making guest appearances in the film.

Mr and Mrs Khanna is being jointly produced by UTV and Sohail Khan while the director is newcomer Prem Soni. The film is expected to be released in December 2008.

Mohit Sharma, Boxoffice India

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Most Awaited Films Of 2008

The most eagerly awaited films of 2008 are Tashan, Jodha Akbar, Made in China, Untitled Aamir Khan starrer directed by A. R. Murugadoss and Singh Is King.

All these films are expected to do great business but as usual we will get the shocks as biggies fail and surprises as smaller films do well.

At the same time last year the hottest films due to release in 2007 were Om Shanti Om, Jodha Akbar, Jhoom Barabar Jhoom, Saawariya and Salaam-E-Ishq.

These films did not yield good results as only Om Shanti Om worked. Jodha Akbar did not make it in 2007 and the rest were losers. Hopefully the five big films of 2008 will yield much better results.

Mohit Sharma, Boxoffice India

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Salman Khan meets his Wax Replica

"The hair is thicker, no eye bags, no double chin, arms are bigger and the nose is sharper". Those were the exact words of Salman Khan when he came face to face with his wax replica at the world famous Madame Tussauds Museum in London. Well, who else could have understood his look-alike better than the actor himself?

He further added, “I always wanted some competition and now I have it" setting the crowd into laughter, like he always does. Sallu bhai is well known for his taunting comments, wacky answers and shocking replies to his critics, fans and media. So when asked why his family didn't travel with him, he tactfully replied, “The whole family back home is really excited but since London was so cold, they wouldn't travel."

Salman came to the venue in a white Bentley. Accompanying him was his younger sister Arpita, Bobby Khan and producer Sajid Nadiadwala. Khan himself wore a long brown leather over-coat with his famous torn jeans (he was the one who started the trend of torn jeans in the Hindi Film Industry) and white glittery t-shirt. In short, he was looking dapper in this outfit with his light brown hair and clean-shaven look.

Salman circled his wax figure by looking at it from top to bottom, when suddenly one of the journalists asked him whether his wax replica was the exact depiction of him in every department. The reply that came from Salman shocked everyone. “I still haven't looked properly. I mean inside his jeans." He was just himself today – ‘bindaas’. Salman Khan revealed that apart from his lucky bracelet and favorite Harley Davidson jacket, there wasn't anything else he donated to the wax figure.

However, that wasn't enough for the 42 year old film Bollywood actor. He said, “Even though I came in slightly later than Amitabh Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai and Shah Rukh Khan, I still think they all are following me. After today, I don't think there is any Bollywood actor who is worthy enough to be standing next to me in Madame Tussauds." Don't worry guys! Our Sallu bhai was just kidding; after all, we are well versed with his sense of humor. He then added, “I think on a more serious note, Aamir Khan should have been the first one to be standing in Madame Tussauds."

One thing is for certain, January 15, 2008 will be best remembered as Salman Khan's day. Unfortunately, the weather was so bad that he could not even take off his T-shirt. Jokes apart, this will indeed be a proud day for all the Bollywood fans across the globe and the Indian Film Industry.

Images Courtesy: Devansh Patel and Rory Gilder

Bollywood Hungama

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A sneak peek into Dabboo Ratnani's 2008 Calendar

“I didn’t want it to be glamorous. The 2007 Calendar was mostly of bright happy day light pictures. Here we kept it little more dark, warm and with high density,” said celebrated photographer Dabboo Ratnani about his superlative 2008 Calendar featuring 24 hottest Bollywood hunks like Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Akshay Kumar, Saif Ali Khan, Arjun Rampal, Abhishek Bachchan, Amitabh Bachchan, Bobby Deol, Vivek Oberoi, Shahid Kapoor etc. We at Bollywood Hungama have chosen eight out of these twenty four brilliantly artistic pictures in this exclusive photo feature. Hope you have a great time shining with the stars.



Shahrukh Khan

Dabboo-Speak: I reached the location and saw the bright blue sky behind me. I placed the mirror and said I want Shahrukh to wear blue & white because there is a white wall and there is blue sky so we will stick to blue & white in this picture.

What-We-Feel: SRK is the flying eagle who knows his destination. There’s style in that flowing white shirt and denims are always in fashion. The stretched hands say…Only I can touch myself, no one can come close to where I am…perched right at the Top.



Neil Mukesh

Dabboo-Speak: It’s a John Woo meets James Bond kind of look. John Woo often uses two guns in most of his action sequences and the look, the styling was very James Bond. I just gave this idea to Neil. He has got an international look about him. I thought he fitted the concept beautifully.

What-We-Feel: The killer cool dude attitude rests lightly on Neil’s shapely shoulders. There’s panache, poise and determination in those hungry eyes. Bollywood…here I came…(by the way…I don’t mind digging into some Hollywood stew either!)



Ranbir Kapoor

Dabboo-Speak: The look is from the movie Cobra starring Sylvester Stallone. We had decided a very very cinematic kind of picture. I told him just imagine that you are in a middle of a chase sequence and you know you leave the steering and you get out of the window and you are trying to fire at the people who are following you. He followed the theme completely. We put up lamp posts, we put up traffic signal, we had car zooming by so we got all the sticks of the lights in the car, the reflection of the car. It was pretty much the largest set up ever done for my calendar pictures. We’ve only seen him in Saawariya. He is one film old. He was a complete lover boy and I thought he could pull of an action sequence really well.

What-We-Feel: We’ve seen him drop (almost) that famous white towel. Now, it’s the turn to see the grungy dirty white vest with a heavy gun resting on that power chest. Rambo-Shades, worker’s faded jeans and a hard, two-day-stubble, in short this fierce look gives Ranbir Kapoor the perfect makeover that the prospective filmmakers would love to latch on to. Now….taste my fire!



Hrithik Roshan

Dabboo-Speak: We used his shoulder, the blades of his shoulders and shoulder balls where he is on the ground, his head is closed. It’s an unusual angle for Hrithik. We’ve never done this before and the whole cracked look in the fore ground and the whole make up was very gold. It’s a January page so when you open, it’s like a warm nice picture and it hits you in Jan.

What-We-Feel: Chiseled in Gold, this emblem of perfection shocks you with sheer intensity and handsomeness. Laidback seductive eyes are smouldering with ambition and intensity. This one’s a precious metal…And maybe you can’t fix a price on extra special entities. Isn’t it?




Salman Khan

Dabboo-Speak: With Salman we shot in a farm house. The thought was exactly Marlboro country. Even the treatment of tones that we have used is very warm gold and he is sitting on his own. It’s like a cow boy kind of a setting Marlboro country. Salman fits it beautifully because the whole check shirt, that cowboy hat, that attitude, Salman has it all.

What-We-Feel: While the others try too hard to get noticed by doing something sizzling-n-flashy, this superbly good looking dude can find priceless treasure in a haystack. It’s time he is offered something radically different for this look is worth preserving on celluloid. For the time being he is in a mood-to-chill while the laidback wind sings….Country roads take me home…



Shahid Kapoor

Dabboo-Speak: People have always used him like a chocolate boy kind of look. I didn’t want to do what people expect so I didn’t want to do like a happy smiley picture. I wanted to do a little more rugged look with him where he is in this whole setting of the painter. He has painted the room black & white and he has got a moment off and he is looking down roller in his hand, the painter’s brush all around him. So the idea was to make him look tough, make him look cool. It has a very grungy element to it.

What-We-Feel: It’s a hard life and one need not always have the brightest of shades to paint emotions. The boy in Shahid has matured into an impressive young man who has that impish boyish charm and yet has a tinge of sublime sensibility way beyond his age. Sometimes I find Mauja hi Mauja in doing quiet things under the confines of closed walls.



Rahul Bose

Dabboo-Speak: I was shooting with Saif and I saw a room where there was a bulb. I looked at the bulb and said I could use this in a different way. People use bulb in picture but I wanna use it like you know the burning filming the tungsten showing and some one’s face really close to it, something really intense. Rahul was my choice because he is unusual for a calendar. You never see Rahul Bose in a calendar. I got him really close to the light bulb. He said should I just lick it? I said great idea let’s try it and he put his tongue on a hot bulb. When I clicked I knew this is the frame and I knew I don’t want any other picture.

What-We-Feel: Rahul Bose dares to be different. When you look at the picture its not as if he is licking danger, rather it seems he is licking Pleasure. The picture has an astoundingly erotic quality to it and that earthy rawness gives it a startling Real feel. Let the ‘fire’works begin…



Vivek Oberoi

Dabboo-Speak: It’s after a fight club kind of scene where Vivek has been through his street fight. He has got blood, grease, it’s dirty all over but he doesn’t care. He just picks up a cigarette, lights it up there. I prefer him with his whole grungy rugged beard long hair. Vivek was one of my first shoots that I did for the calendar because he was traveling to Turkey for his film shoot for three months. When I did the shoot of Vivek, I pretty much was clear that ok this is what I wanted to do and I am going to take this root for the calendar and I wanted it to be dark.

What-We-Feel: Vivek loves to live-on-the-edge. Blood rests easy on his chest-n-shoulders while the unkempt smoke flakes scatter ceaselessly. Somehow he looks best in this grungy, masculine look rather than the clean-shaven mould. These eyes-of-the-tiger are only gunning for success….romance can wait!

Faridoon Shahryar For Bollywood Hungama

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A busy year ahead for Kajol ?

The year 2008 has brought with it a busy schedule for Kajol. Besides doing U, ME AUR HUM with hubby Ajay Devgan, Kajol will also be seen with Shah Rukh Khan in Karan Johar's next film MR KHAN. And now, the actress has bagged the female lead in Rajkumar Hirani's next film IDIOTS. In all, it seems to be a very busy year ahead for Kajol.

According to reports, IDIOTS is based on Chetan Bhagat's story - 'Five Point Someone' - dealing with three IIT students. The film also has Aamir Khan in the male lead and it is learnt that Hirani has approached Saif Ali Khan and John Abraham for different roles in the film that is to begin shooting in a few months' time.

Sampurn, Bollywood Trade News Network

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The wait’s over, Salman Khan heads for London

Mumbai, Jan 14: Bollywood heartthrob Salman Khan left for London, early Monday morning, for the unveiling of his wax replica at the prestigious Madame Tussad museum. Bollywood's inimitable and irrepressible bad boy, the actor’s wax figure is worth £ 200,000 (roughly Rs 1.62 crore). He was accompanied by his family, including girlfriend Katrina Kaif.

Those who have seen the statue say that Salman’s wax figure, which took 12 weeks and five artistes to create, has a remarkable resemblance to him. A special wax and silicon-like materials have been used to give the macho star’s six-pack abs and biceps a realistic look. The sculptors worked overtime to develop the accurate shape and size. However, to the disappointment of his fans, the Salman’s wax replica will not be showcased bare-chested.

Madame Tussaud officials also revealed the brawny star’s wax work will be placed in the New Bollywood area along with three other Bollywood superstars- veteran actor Amitabh Bachchan, Sallu’s ex flame Aishwarya Rai and his close friend Shah Rukh Khan.

During a recent interview Salman, in his characteristic manner, took a light hearted collective dig at other Bollywood stars who were honored with a wax replica before him. "After Mahatma Gandhi and Indira Gandhi, I think I am the third most deserving in the museum," he joked.

Khan beat nine other Indian stars, including Madhuri Dixit and Abhishek Bachchan, to be immortalised in wax after a public poll was conducted in August last year. Over 10,000 votes were received, and Salman emerged the clear winner.

Salman Khan, who debuted almost two decades back in the runaway hit ‘Maine Pyar Kiya’ has always a sizeable fan following in the UK .

Despite his conterversies and irrespective of hits and flops, Salman Khan has managed to remain an undisputed star amongst the top ranking Bollywood heroes. One of Bollywood’s biggest draw, his films still command the biggest box-office openings, along with Shah Rukh and Akshay Kumar.

His forthcoming projects include first timer Rimi Jaffery’s comic caper ‘God tussi great ho’, Prabhu Deva’s ‘Pokkiri’ and Subhas Ghai’s musical extravagenca ‘Main Yuvraaj’. With yet another feather added in his cap, the 42 year old’s 2008 couldn’t have started on a better note.

Zee News

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Bindass SRK charms the audiences at his concert

UTV' s entertainment channel for the youth Bindass had its first concert called the 'Airtel Bindaas India' concert yesterday at the MMRDA grounds in Mumbai and the top draw at the event was none other than the presence of the Baadshah of Bollywood Shah Rukh Khan.

The concert gave the die-hard SRK fans an opportunity to interact and get up, close and personal with their favorite matinee idol. The show hosted by Sajid Khan had opening acts by Rakhi Sawant, Mouli Dave, Neeti Mohan, and Kunal Ganjawala, enthralling the audiences. However, the temperature actually started soaring when actors like Dia Mirza, Dino Morea, and Priyanka Chopra took centre-stage dancing to some of their popular tracks.

But the frenzy reached its maximum when King Khan made an entry. The stylish look, the well-toned physique, and his much-loved dimpled smile sent the crowds in a tizzy. Shah Rukh kept his act interactive for most part. He first called on two winners of the 'Dance with SRK' contest and gave tips on how to woo a girl even as his chartbuster 'Aankhon Mein Teri' from OSO played in the background. Next up was a performance on Don with SRK teaching yet another winner some mean tricks. Last but not the least a young girl from Jaipur had an unforgettable time as King Khan flirted around with her while swaying to the tunes of Pretty Woman from Kal Ho Na Ho.


As it was time to say Good-bye the winners were given gifts like a certificate, a copy of Shah Rukh's biography SRK- Still Reading Khan and a large size cut out of the star which he himself autographed.

Even as the show ended, people were waiting near the VVIP car-park to get one last look at their favorite superstar. One thing is for sure when it comes to super-stardom and mass fan following there is no one to beat Shah Rukh Khan.

Bollywood Hungama

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Nokia 14th Annual Star Screen Awards 2008 - Winners

Aamir Khan's Taare Zameen Par bagged six key awards at the Nokia 14th Annual Star Screen Awards on Thursday, January 10, Mumbai.

Aamir Khan shared the best director award for the film with Shimit Amin for Chak De! India. He additionally won awards as Best Supporting Actor and for Best Dialogs.

The three other awards won by Aamir’s film were - Best Story (Amol Gupte), Best Child Actor (Darsheel) and Best Lyricist (Prasoon Joshi).

Shah Rukh Khan was adjudged the best actor award for his performance in Chak De! India.

The best actress award went to Kareena Kapoor for her spirited performance as Geet in the Imtiaz Ali directed film Jab We Met.

AR Rahman's musical score for Guru earned him the award for the Best Music Director.

Shah Rukh and Deepika Padukone were named as the Best Pair onscreen in Om Shanti Om

Deepika was additionally adjudged the Best Newcomer (Female) beating Sonam Kapoor

More predictably Ranbir Kapoor walked away with the Best Newcomer (Male) Award.

Shah Rukh Khan performed the ‘Dard-e-Disco’ number from Om Shanti Om at the event.

Others who performed included Shahid Kapur, Katrina Kaif, Urmila Matondkar, Riteish Deshmukh and Dia Mirza.

Other winners at the awards were:
Irfan Khan Best Comedian Award for Life…In a Metro
Anurag Basu Best Screenplay Award for Life…In a Metro
Soham Best Playback Singer (Male) in the film Life…In a Metro
Priya Ghosal Best Playback Singer (female) for Guru
Pankaj Kapoor Best Negative Role
Chak De girls Best Supporting Role (female)
Manoj Kumar Star Screen Lifetime Achievement Award

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What it takes to be a hero?: Nikhil

The question most frequently asked of Nikhil Dwivedi, who makes his debut in My Name is Anthony Gonsalves this Friday, is: How did he ever think of getting into films?

Nikhil, who wants to be an actor, and who is your average-looking Mumbaiite, will not be deterred by every cynical moviegoer who puts this question to him. Instead, he counter-questions, “What’s the qualification for an actor? If just good looks are the benchmark, then every good-looking guy and model ought to be a superstar. When chocolate heroes were ruling, Amitabh Bachchan stood out. Likewise Mithun Chakravorty, Shah Rukh Khan and Ajay Devgan made their presence felt in Bollywood. They didn’t conform to any rules. But they dazzle on screen.” Then, with a confident smile, Nikhil adds quietly, “When I stand before the camera, I see a hero.”

People like him depend on their hard work to make inroads into Bollywood. And why not? Luck is always known to favour the brave. Nikhil has as much a chance of making it big in Bollywood as, say, good friend Shah Rukh Khan.

“It’s about being in the right place at the right time. If years ago, Armaan Kohli hadn’t walked out of Sajid Nadiadwala’s Deewana , and Salman Khan hadn’t disapproved of Baazigar , Shah Rukh Khan would not have got a chance to display his immense talent. Both these films made him popular with the audience. I believe in just working hard and leaving everything to destiny, it determines us,” Nikhil keeps reminding himself.

He plays the title role in My Name is Anthony Gonsalves which has been directed by E Niwas. In the film as well, Nikhil’s character dreams of making it big. Anthony Gonsalves’s trials mark his journey to stardom. Does he identify with the role? “I have come so far on my own, I am sure I can go further,” Nikhil smiles in reply. Is he, like, an SRK clone? “Not true,” he answers defensively, “Shah Rukh Khan’s energy and hard work is infectious. He is so cultured that it’s inspiring. I am not on backslapping terms with him. I look upto him but I worship Amitabh Bachchan.”

Painfully shy when talking about girls, Nikhil is reluctant to divulge that he is single. “I am uncomfortable talking about this,” he admits. One film old only, but does he have a favourite heroine? “Not really, but if you want to know which heroine I find talented, I would say Priyanka Chopra and Amrita Rao.”

And why would an MBA working in a corporate house want to get into Bollywood? “I was unhappy with what I was doing. I knew films were my calling. So I decided to follow my dream,” he smiles again.

Afsana Ahmed, TNN

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Farah Khan in hospital

Meanwhile, Farah Khan we heard has got herself admitted at the Jaslok hospital. No her due date is still far, but she wants to escape the trouble of driving down everyday from the suburbs to town to her hospital.

She finds it very tiresome and that’s why she has got herself admitted to the hospital for her routine check up. And she’s kicked out moving to town as she will be able to order food from all her favourite restaurants in town,” says one of her close friend. Now this is one die-hard foddie.

TNN

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Ranbir Kapoor gets pricey

Ranbir Kapoor may be a newcomer but he sure can drive a hard bargain. Shortly after Saawariya, this debutante embarked on his signing spree. And Yash Raj films was one of the first people to offer him a role. Now we all know dahlings, YRF is famous for paying its actors far less than their market price. In fact what Ranbir was offered less than half his market rate.But apna Ranbir refused to buckle down. He did take a slight cut on his market rate (maybe ten percent less than what he commands these days), nowhere near the piddly amounts Yash Raj has been used to doling out so far. Well, it fits. Today Ranbir's equity is on the ascent but 2007 has been a bleak year for YRF. Way to go Ranbir!

Buzz18

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Shilpa the world's sexiest Yogi

Shilpa Shetty, the actress who has always been termed 'the best bod in Bollywood', has now released a special edition of a DVD called 'Shilpa's Yoga' targeted at the European market. Here, she reveals her fitness secrets to create a lean and toned body while retaining all the feminine curves.

"Shilpa is the sexiest yogi the world has ever seen," quips her publicist Dale Bhagwagar. "In 'Shilpa's Yoga' she demonstrates simple techniques against the stunning coastal backdrop of Kerala.

She explains how to transform mind, body and soul, with unique ways to build stamina and get revitalised, while discovering inner peace," he adds.

With careful and precise instructions, the DVD demonstrates specific sequences that enhance concentration, agility and flexibility.

The workout aims not only to strengthen and tone, but also to heal. 'Shilpa's Yoga' is designed to help improve posture through a series of calming poses which focus on slow movement and breathing control.

It outlines various benefits of yoga, including stress and tension release, increased energy and vitality, weight loss, improved circulation and digestion, and comes with a free audio-CD of chill out ambient music to help unwind and relax after practicing the yoga techniques.

"Go for it. It might even improve your sex life," says Bhagwagar.

The DVD is released at an exciting time for Shilpa. Her perfume S2 continues to top the sales charts in Britain, while the tour of her musical 'Miss Bollywood' has met with stupendous success in 16 cities across Europe.

Santabanta

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Happy Birthday Bipasha Basu

Bipasha Basu and Koena Mitra are turning a year older today on 7 Jan.

And they both have their own secret plans for the day. Bipasha brought in her birthday with beau John Abraham in Goa.

"I'll spend my day tanning on the sunny beach and trying to swim. I'll also be visiting the spa. And of course I'll be trying out the most delicious Goan food. The birthday is the high point of a divine holiday."

But Bipasha's celebrations don't end there. "We're coming back on the the 8th to celebrate the birthday again with my parents and close friends. Like she does on my birthday every year, Mom will cook all my favourite food that surely includes gajar ka halwa."

Koena Mitra is very much in Mumbai and looking forward to her friends making the day special for her. "I know Tanushree Dutta has planned something. But I don't know what it is," she giggles.

Tanushree seems enormously excited by Koena's birthday. "She's my best friend and naturally I've plans. Me and a few other friends will go to her house to bring in her birthday.

Then after our celebration we'll crash out at Koena's house. Then during the day we have little surprises planted for Koena all over the house."

Subash K Jha, Santabanta

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WELCOME: The biggest overseas grosser of Akshay Kumar

The Aneez Bazmee-directed comic caper, WELCOME, has recorded path breaking collections internationally, emerging as the No.1 film of Christmas 2007. The magnum opus was promoted, marketed and distributed overseas by the international arm of Indian Films - Studio 18.

WELCOME has grossed more than $ 4.5 million (INR 18 cr) at the international box-office in just two weeks and is going strong in its third week as well. With no comparable tent-pole release in the weeks to come, WELCOME is poised to create even bigger milestones in film history.

Of the total international two-week gross, $ 3.5 million has been mopped up from the three key markets alone - US, UK/Ireland & UAE, and the remaining from other European and Asia-Pacific markets.

In the US, WELCOME crossed $ 1 million on 63 prints at the end of its second week, much the same as the Gulf, where collections touched $ 1 million on 29 prints at the end of the second week and have held strong over the weekdays as well. WELCOME is reported to have beaten some of the biggest blockbusters in the UAE, including NAMASTEY LONDON, HEYY BABYY and BHOOL BHULAIYAA, making it the highest grossing film ever for Akshay Kumar in this territory.

In the UK/Ireland, WELCOME mopped up $ 1.5 million on 51 prints at the end of its second week, making it the highest fortnight gross for an Akshay Kumar title in this market. It was alongside Hollywood biggies at No.8 in the coveted UK TOP 10 in its opening weekend having bagged the second highest opening in 2007 after OM SHANTI OM. The box-office of WELCOME in two weeks in the UK/Ireland has overtaken that of films like GURU, CHAK DE! INDIA, TA RA RUM PUM, HEYY BABYY and BHOOL BHULAIYAA, and in the days to come, it is set to oust the likes of RANG DE BASANTI, PARTNER, NAMASTEY LONDON and LAGE RAHO MUNNABHAI in this region.

Bollywood Trade News Network

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SUPERSTAR Kunal Khemu in a double role

Kunal Khemu, who has been doing reasonably well for himself ever since he started doing film as a lead actor beginning with KALYUG, would be seen in the first double role of his career in upcoming SUPERSTAR.

Directed by Rohit Jugraj who made his debut with Ram Gopal Varma production JAMES (Mohit Ahlawat, Nisha Kothari), is back with a project after close to 2.5 years and is looking at making an impression in his second outing.

For Kunal too the film is special since he would be looking at aiming for yet another success to his name after KALYUG, TRAFFIC SIGNAL and DHOL. SUPERSTAR features Kunal in the dual role of a superstar and a 'tapori'. A Shree Ashtavinayak Cinevision Ltd production, the film also stars Tulip Joshi and Aushima Sawhney along with Reema Lagoo, Sharat Saxena and Vrajesh Hirjee.

Joginder Tuteja, Bollywood Trade News Network

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Aishwarya Rai is not upto the mark: Ashutosh

Ashutosh Gowarikar's Jodhaa Akbar has been in trouble from day one. The director, who was keen to release his film in the month of January, had to shift the release further. Now, it is heard, that the director has been suffering from severe back pain and is executing all his work lying on the bed.

If all this was not enough, Ashutosh, who was editing recently, realised that a scene he had shot with Aishwarya Rai was not upto the mark. Our unit source claims, "The director picturised a scene where Aishwarya is riding a horse in a fight sequence. The director wanted an aggressive expression on Ash's face, but, to his dismay, he realised later that Ash is looking frightened on the horse. With less time on his hands, he cannot re-shoot the entire scene and will have to morph her expression with advanced technology. He is now trying to figure out the technology with which he can rectify the situation. Ashutosh did not realise this when he was shooting or even later, when he was monitoring the scene at the set."

The source continues, "One doesn't know whether these small situations or sequences will further delay the film. Ashutosh is trying his best to do it in time as further delay will only hamper work on the project.

Indiatarget

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Saif Ali Khan got Kareena's name tattooed on his hand!

Saif Ali Khan is convinced he is made for Kareena Kapoor, or at least his left forearm is, because he has got her name tattooed on it! Now that should convince his former wife Amrita Singh and former girlfriend Rozza Catalino that this time around it is different.

Hopefully, it will convince Kareena Kapoor to put Saif's recent dalliances, before he hooked up with her, behind them.

Hmm We wonder if Shahid ever thought of getting himself tattooed for Kareena?

Kareena's name was inked in Devnagri on Saif Thursday morning at Hakim's Alim in Bandra, reports Mumbai Mirror.

Saif and Kareena left for Greece Friday, January 4, to savor the salubrious climate and food there for three days before other crew members of Tashan catch up with them for a shooting schedule there.

Tashan is sure turning out to be an unforgettable film for Saif and Kareena not just because of its exotic locales, that include Ladakh, Jaisalmer and now Greece , but also because the two first bonded on its sets and seeing the scorching pace of their romance could end up becoming life partners before its release.

It is clear that Saif is looking at marriage. He recently said he is 'extremely and completely committed' to Kareena Kapoor and would like to spend the rest of his life with her.

The tattoo now suggests that he may have an informal commitment from Kareena and a formal announcement may just be a matter of time.

Indiatarget

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Marriage on the cards for Deepika and Yuvraj?

This could turn out to be the love story of 2008. 'Mr Sixer' Yuvraj Singh is dating Bollywood's latest heartthrob Deepika Padukone, sources close to the families say. The sources, however, scotched media reports that the model-turned-actress had been invited to Australia by the cricketer, currently on tour Down Under.

Deepika, they insisted, was in Sydney shooting for Yash Raj Films' next venture being directed by Siddharth Anand of 'Tara Rum Pum' fame, in which she is paired opposite Ranbir 'Saa-wariya' Kapoor.

A friend of the Padukones said, "Deepika is in Australia in her own capacity and the India-Australia Test match just happens to be taking place around the same time. But one thing is sure � Yuvraj and Deepika are dating each other."

Meanwhile, a source close to the Singh family told TOI on Friday, "The two are very close to each other. In two years' time, if things go well, marriage could be on the cards. But right now, both of them are focused on their respective professions."

Incidentally, Deepika will be celebrating her 22nd birthday on Saturday, the crucial fourth day of the ongoing second Test match, and the pair is expected to be together for the occasion.

Earlier, Deepika's name had been linked with India 's ODI captain, M S Dhoni. He had even invited the actress for the one-off Twenty20 match against Australia in Mumbai last year.

But lately, she has been seen with the dashing southpaw. Deepika attended Yuvraj's birthday party at Enigma, J W Marriott, on December 12 and that was right after the India-Pakistan Test match in Bangalore, where Yuvi struck a crackling 169.

In November, they were also seen together after the last match of the India-Pakistan one-day series.

The southpaw has run up a string of low scores against Ponting's Australia . In fact, he looked both ungainly and out-of-sorts on Friday, and fell cheaply to Brett Lee for a score of 12.

After India had lost the first Test at Melbourne without much of a fight, Indian team manager Lalchand Rajput was quoted in the media saying that senior players were upset over Yuvraj's attitude. The comments were later denied, both by Rajput and the team management.

Indiatarget

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Salman and Ash closer in London!

Aishwarya Bachchan's former boyfriend will soon be a waxwork at Madame Tussaud's, London , just meters away from her. Abhishek Bachchan, take a deep breath as you read this. When Bollywood's bad boy, Salman Khan unveils his waxwork at the Madame Tussaud's museum at Marylebone Street in London on January 15, he will be just a few meters away from former love, Aishwarya Rai.

According to Madame Tussaud's, London , marketing coordinator Kieran Lancini, Salman's figure will be placed in the New Bollywood area along with the other three Bollywood superstars (Amitabh Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai and Shah Rukh Khan) already immortalized in wax.

Salman Khan though will not be part of the interactive section of the museum like Brad Pitt. Pitt's wax figure has a squeezable bum' where tourists can actually fondle his butt. There are no such plans for Salman, though, Lancini asserted, he will be part of the top English tourist spot for posterior-ity.

Indiatarget

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"I could be the next newsreader!" - Karan Johar

Your year was filled with celeb interviews and shooting ads.
I'd agree with that. In 2007, I directed no films. But did many ads including the latest Alfred Dunhill. I'm the ambassador for their clothes lines. Then there was ICI paint where I shot with Kareena and Brew, the coffee, which I've just tied up. And Timond watches.

Wow that's quite a lot of you being visible.
I am sure somewhere ads enhance your brand value. People look at you for things other than your core profession. You just have to balance it out and make sure you don't burn yourself out. I'm cutting down on my chat-show activity in 2008. However, I will continue to do live chat shows. I'm now the official interviewer for ‘Dubai Lifestyle’ where I interviewed Maria Sharapova recently. My journey from a director to a member of the media has been interesting. I like to be interviewed as much as I like to interview. Who knows, I could be the next newsreader?

You started the cult of celebrity directors in Bollywood.
I apologize for that. It started with me walking into people's homes with my chat show ‘Koffee With Karan’. Everything else was an offshoot of that. Now, I've a parallel existence besides a filmmaker, as a talk-show host. Everything else followed.

Has Koffee With Karan enhanced you as a filmmaker?
To even pretend that I've grown as a filmmaker because of ‘Koffee With Karan’ would be stupid. I've always been a people's person .I love talking to people. And it's great fun when you're paid for your hobby.

And now you are an integral part of a new entertainment channel
Yes, ‘NDTV Imagine’ takes off in January 2008. I'll be physically part of just one show ‘Say Shava Shava’ Otherwise the creative head Samir Nair is a very capable man. I'll be there whenever he wants me to step in.

Does the channel get the stars through you?
Why just me? There're lots of credible people, Prannoy Roy and his team, Samir Nair and his team. And then there's me. We definitely make a multi-star cast. I think everyone associated with the channel has the clout to get the biggest names from showbiz.

Did you miss making a movie in 2007?
Of course! But I've been so much part of brain-storming, structuring and planning that I had no time to miss my true vocation. My Dharma Productions will go into action in 2008. Tarun Mansukhani, our new blue-eyed boy at Dharma with a strong sense of loyalty, is directing our next production from March to be completed in July. He’s a rock-solid support to our production house. But my biggest support is my CEO who's also my best friend, Apoorva Mehta. He handles the entire financial structuring of my company. I wouldn't know what to do without him.

Please state more details about the Mansukhani film.
This film will star Abhishek, Priyanka Chopra and John Abraham. Bobby Deol has a very special role in the film. This will be our only release in 2008. During 2009-2011 we hope to release at least three films per year. 2009 will see the release of our first animation film Coochie Coochie Hota Hai and the film that I'll direct which starts at the end of 2008 but will also release in 2009.

Do you miss a larger support system?
I've a great support system. People who've been with from my father’s (Producer Yash Johar) time. But I don't think a single day passes when I don't miss having him with me. I can never be the man, producer and leader that he was. I just wish to follow in his footsteps. For him generating goodwill was far more essential than making money. The biggest hit for him was a unit that said we want to work with you again.

2009 looks like a busy year for you.
Yes, because Siddharth Malhotra who worked with Sooraj Barjatya on Vivah and also assisted on my production Kal Ho Na Ho and Renzel D'Silva who wrote Rang De Basanti will also direct films for us.

Your favorite films of 2007?
I was bowled over by Chak De India and Om Shanti Om. It has truly been the year of Shah Rukh Khan. I also liked Anurag Basu's Life In A Metro. And I loved Mira Nair's The Namesake. I felt a strong sense of catharsis watching it. I'll always be grateful to Mira Nair. I remember hugging her tight after seeing the film.

Do you think 2007 was a rewarding year for Bollywood?
I think 2006 was a watershed year. 2007 was a decent follow-up year. There're so many exciting things happening. New actors and filmmakers are born every week. I loved Ranbir Kapoor, Sonam Kapoor, and Deepika Padukone. When I saw then I couldn't believe it was their first film. They're masters of the craft already. I think in 2001 Hrithik Roshan raised the bar for newcomers.You just have to be brilliant in your first film. Daunting, but true.

Tell me about your next directorial venture?
I'll start around August 2008. It's a project that needs careful handling. There's a lot of conjecture….is it about 9/11 terrorism. But at heart Khan—that's what I want to call it—is a love story. For the first time I'm not writing my own film. Shibani Bhatija is. She co-wrote Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna with me. It's my story but her screenplay. I'm enjoying the experience of watching the plot evolve from the outside. Every day we discuss the characters.

What prompted you to get someone else to write this film?
I just felt I might bring too much of myself to the film. I'm totally passionate and excited about directing it. But if I had written it, the tough core of the plot might've been compromised.

Your last directed film Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna (KANK) seems to have made quite an impact.
When I look back on it, I feel all my films are accompanied by too much hype and hoopla. Audiences don't know what they're going for. KANK was too close their domestic reality and too distanced from the Karan Johar style. I can say with assurance it's exceptionally brave to make a 50-crore film like this. Even today, the maximum e-mails and smses come to me on KANK are from strangers. I get tons of letters on my website about how the movie has affected their lives. I did make mistakes in KANK. It's over-opulent and too lengthy. I made commercial compromises. But the emotional core connected. And when people said they couldn't STAND it they meant they were reacting to the characters.

So which film of yours are you the proudest of?
By far Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna. It has made the maximum impact. Being Karan Johar is both an advantage and a disadvantage. That very brand name comes in the way of people expecting something different from me. But I love the work I do, love the industry I live in. I feel privileged to be in Indian cinema. Where else can you laugh sing cry, dance, and still be at work.

What about marriage for you?
Of course, I hate walking into an empty bedroom at night. There're large lonely moments. Fortunately, I've the best relationship possible with my mother. That makes up for every relationship I don't have. She is my best friend and a reason to look forward to the next day. Of course, I'd love to be in a relationship. But it has to be the one I completely believe in. I am 35 and I am not here for frivolous fun. My mom doesn't badger me about a Bahu. I live so many lives as a filmmaker that I forget my own emptiness. Too busy creating so many lives on screen to create a relationship for myself.

The best thing and the worst that happened to you in 2007?
I've always said I wasn't a businessman at heart. In 2007, I realized I have to make Dharma Productions a banner to contend with. 2007 was the year of personal ambitions for me. Worst thing? Nothing. Even my little skirmishes with Ram Gopal Varma and Anurag Kashyap made me happy.

What do you mean?
My life is my work. I'm happy when I've a problem with someone. It's a diversion. I'm so busy being affable, amiable accessible. Every year I like to have one person bad-mouthing me. It entertains me. When I patched up with Anurag within seconds I was so disappointed. Can you please find someone to say mean evil and mean things to say about me in 2008?

Subash K Jha, IndiaFM

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SRK and Aamir together!

Khans are well known for ruling the Tinsel-town since ages now. Any Bollywood celebration without their presence is incomplete. Of late, the three most celebrated Khans, Aamir, Shah Rukh and Salman were seen at the lavish 15th anniversary celebration of the Zee Network at Taj Lands End on Saturday, January 5. Also, present at the occasion was the ever sizzling Rekha.

The above picture shows the two Khans- Aamir and Shah Rukh- in a very cheerful mood, probably congratulating each other for the success of their respective films released last year. Apparently, Aamir Khan had messaged SRK to fix a date to watch Taare Zameen Par. Nevertheless, Shah Rukh has promised to watch the film with his kids, now is he a true star or what! Appreciating other’s work was a quality he always possessed.

With the presence of the biggies of Bollywood, the Zee Networks party surely turned out to be a big event.

Image Courtesy: Daily News and Analysis

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