Hindi version of south blockbuster 'Chandramukhi' Released today

Post the release of Jodhaa Akbar on Friday, Feb 15, there hasn't been any popular release in Bollywood and the situation is likely to be the same till March 7th, when Subhash Ghai's Black and White hits the theatres.

In the interim, a lot of new Hollywood releases, some C-grade Hindi films and even some dubbed films are being released trying to cash in on the open weeks. However, what took us by surprise was when we saw this poster of the Rajinikanth starrer Chandramukhi which is lined for release this week. Apparently, this super-duper hit Tamil movie which released a couple of years back is now dubbed in Hindi and releases across cinemas today (Feb 29th).

Chandramukhi directed by P.Vasu stars Superstar Rajinikanth playing an eccentric psychiatrist along with south sensation Jyothika and Sonu Sood (who was last seen as Ash's brother in Jodhaa Akbar). The movie which has won 5 National awards is a spooky supernatural thriller. For the benefit of all those who came in late, last year's smash hit Bhool Bhulaiyaa starring Akshay Kumar, Vidya Balan and Shiney Ahuja had a story very similar to Chandramukhi. Interestingly, Chandramukhi itself borrows its premise from the Malayalam film Manachitratazhu starring Shobhana.

So, to add a twist to your movie watching experience, check out the south blockbuster Chandramukhi starring Rajinikanth and Jyothika do the 'Bhool Bhulaiyaa' in Hindi.

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No Ranbir in Mani Ratnam's film

The rumour that Ranbir Kapoor will be joining the cast of Mani Ratnam's new Hindi venture has everyone associated with the film in a puzzle. "We've no idea where that started, or what it means. Ranbir doesn't feature in the cast of Mani's film at all" says a source close to the project.

The source further adds, "There is another male lead required in this Abhishek-Ash love story. But it must be someone older than Abhishek So, Ranbir is ruled out."

Could it be the old Mani favourite Madhavan who has done five films with the Tamil maverick? Maddy shoots down this rumour. "No. I'm certainly not a part of Mani Sir's new film. He hasn't asked me and I wouldn't be able to even if he did, because I've no dates from September when he shoots his Hindi film." A sense of disappointment that Mani has switched favourites? "Not at all!" Maddy laughs. "Mani and I have done five films together. He needs to work with other actors and I need to look at other directors."

Subhash K. Jha, Bollywood Hungama

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Kajol officially refuses Hirani's project

One of the most talked about projects in the pipeline is the iconic Munnabhai series director, Rajkumar Hirani's next venture with Aamir Khan. While Hirani has gone on record umpteen number of times saying that the movie is not based on Chetan Bhagat's paperback bestseller and is basically about the Indian education system. However, ill-informed media sources continue to refer it as being the screen adaptation of ' Five Point Someone -What Not To Do At IIT'. While old habits die-hard and despite this piece the same reference will continue. Here is the latest about the project, in fact it is a confirmation of what we had hinted at last week in our news item - Ajay's advice to Kajol regarding SRK.

Kajol has now gone on record to say that she has turned down the project, which was earlier turned down by her co-star and friend Shah Rukh Khan, for obvious reasons. She has reportedly allocated the same dates to Karan Johar's next. News is that Kareena Kapoor has accepted Kajol's reject, due to her long time desire of working with the perfectionist Khan.

Well, whichever movie Kajol chooses or has chosen, we are sure that she will do full justice to her role, and meanwhile we are looking to see her back on screen this April with hubby Devgan's U, ME AUR HUM.

Abid, Bollywood Trade News Network

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Saif and Deepika to say Merry Christmas

It's Saif all the way.

In real life, he has been having a great time with Kareena Kapoor. Meanwhile on screen in RACE he has much to look forward with his 'Touch Me Touch Me' girl - Katrina Kaif. Well, this is not all, as his eyes would soon be set on another beauty -Deepika Padukone - as he gets ready to face the camera for his next film, which would be directed by Imtiaz Ali of JAB WE MET fame.

A romantic tale which pairs the two much-in-demand actors for the first time ever, this yet untitled film would be shot in India as well as abroad. What makes it further special is the fact that the release plan for the film has already been base lined even before as the shoot is yet to begin.

As of now, Thursday, 25th December, is the D-day for the film to arrive. With the success of WELCOME, Christmas season has become hot favorite for popular films to arrive and with a combination like Imtiaz-Saif-Deepika, it indeed would be Merry Christmas for everyone involved with the project.

Joginder Tuteja, Bollywood Trade News Network

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Preity Zinta at the launch of National Geographic's 'Trapped'

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TASHAN promos from next week

The first promo of Yashraj Films' upcoming action extravaganza, TASHAN, was included in the reels of their last release, AAJA NACHLE. Just that single trailor (which we had discussed in detail), which concluded with Anil saying, "First impression is last impression", seems to have worked like magic and was enough to build a tremendous hype around the film. And if that was not enough, an unlikely source, the posters of the movie (in cinemas) are taking the curiosity to dizzying heights. A proof of that is the high number of enquiries at the theatres where these hoardings have been displayed. So what's the latest on TASHAN?

As per our trade and exhibition sources, Yashraj Films is all set to launch a publicity blitzkrieg for the film, with the tag line- 'The Ishtyle... The Good Luck... The Pharmoola' from the first week of March, followed by a quick audio release.

Vijay Krishna Acharya's TASHAN, forecasted/projected as one of the biggest openers of the year by the trade is all set to hit the screens on 25th April 2008 and is likely to be the only major release of the week.

Abid, Bollywood Trade News Network

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Beautilicious Babe-Oh!

Actress Kareena Kapoor has become larger than life. C'mon, she has made it to the covers of at least five magazines in the last one month, stories about her love life eat enough and more newsprint, and her pretty face along with her sexy bod is splashed on television celluloid. Her awards for her acting histrionics and her 'exorbitant fees' are being enviously talked about... Bebo simply describes this phase as a happy one. "I couldn't be happier. I'm walking in the clouds," she told me, jab we met on the sets of Golmaal Returns .

I walk into her vanity van, and make myself comfortable, courteously refusing the cuppa chai that's offered to me. Dressed in a cowgirl avatar - micro-mini , white shirt, hat and boots - Kareena is anything but the naïve Refugee . She today comes across as a street smart individual, who oozes confidence with as much ease as she does sex appeal. I get talking about her mini-skirt, her 'super-hot' role in the action-studded Tashan, and the supposed bikini that she has worn in the film. "I promise you it's nothing vulgar," she says, "It's a compliment of sorts if I can balance the well-covered Dolly in Omkara with wearing mini-skirts. It proves that I can be molded into any role. Actors should be like clay..."

So post her action stint, can Bebo kick ass now? "That, I don't know!" she says laughing. "But it has been fun shooting. For me, those action sequences were more of a challenge. I had to lose weight for my role. I worked out, was on a strict diet. But now that the film is over, I'm back to my normal routine. I'm eating everything although I make it a point to workout everyday."

Having upped her sexy quotient, would Kareena rather be called 'beautiful' or 'sexy'? Her eyes light up with greed, "Both!" she avers, "Every woman wants to be beautiful; every woman wants to be considered sexy as well. But the challenge lies in being beautiful and sexy when you are in your everyday clothes. I live in my track pants, and when I'm called 'beautiful' and 'sexy' when in them, sans any external embellishments, I feel good."

And how good does she feel having signed up a film with John Abraham - the hot guy whom Kareena described as an 'expressionless actor' on a talk show once? "The show is not to be taken seriously. It was a fun show. And besides, John, too gave me a six on ten for acting!" she explains, getting back, adding, "No, but it'll be interesting since it'll be our first time on screen together. It's a cute love story. I'm looking forward to having a nice conversation with John. I'm sure he's a cool guy. However, I'll definitely ask him one question at the end of the shoot: How much would you rate me on ten now?"

Will working with John mean burying the hatchet with his girlfriend Bipasha Basu? "Please! Bipasha and I fought when we were in school," says Kareena, rolling those light eyes. "It was that long ago. There's no problem between us now." And pigs can fly, but never mind! In stead of speaking of BB and her Beau, I turn to questions on Bebo's Beau!

"Saif's a great guy. I'm happy with him. Sometimes articles in the papers about us take me by surprise, because there are so many things said and written that are untrue. People are forever concocting stories, opining, assuming things, but I can't waste time clarifying. I have work to do and a life to live!" We are out of her vanity van, now. As I walk out of the sets, she continues her walk... in the clouds!

Urvashi Ashar, Indiatimes Movies

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Hrithik Roshan in a new Coca cola ad

Keen to build a stronger connect with the young generation, global soft drinks major Coca-Cola India on Thursday announced the launch of its new campaign that will feature Bollywood actor and style icon Hrithik Roshan.Based on the theme Jashan Mana Le, the campaign has been designed to showcase the 'magical power' of aerated drink Coca-Cola.The new commercial is set at a quaint street where a group of youngsters land up late one night to grab a bite, only to find all the shops shut. What follows is a tryst with Hrithik and a magical ride, which leaves them in awe.

Set in the context of friends enjoying their food, the cold drink brings life to the moment and transforms it into an impromptu celebration."It feels great to be part of the Jashan Mana Le campaign. It reminds me of the time when I was in college, hanging out with friends, going out and having food together," said Hrithik in a press statement.

"The emotions captured in the campaign of togetherness and celebrations, being energized by a bottle of Coca-Cola are very real and identifiable. I am sure all including my fans, would find this campaign extremely appealing," he added.

Venkatesh Kini, vice-president (marketing), Coca-Cola India, said, "Having made thanda and refreshment synonymous with Coca-Cola, this year we have decided to take the brand communication to the next level. Our 2008 campaign focuses on how a bottle of Coca-Cola infuses a stream of fun, enjoyment and exhilaration into every moment of life. The idea of the new campaign is tell the audience how the magical power of the beverage brings celebration into the lives of its consumers. I am confident that the youth today will strongly identify with both the lingo and message of this campaign," he added.

It has been tentatively decided that the next campaign of the cold drink will feature its brand ambassador Aamir Khan.

IANS

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Mani goes shopping for actors

Mani Ratnam was recently in town for a reason. The director met up with top actors to start the casting for his next film. He has already finalised Aishwarya Rai and Abhishek Bachchan for the lead pair and is in talks with other actors for the supporting cast.

Topmost on Mani’s list is Saawariya star Ranbir Kapoor. Apparently, when Ranbir heard the director was in town he was keen to meet him. Says an industrywalla, “Mani was quite impressed with Ranbir.

He’s watched Saawariya and liked his work. He has a role in the film that’s perfect for Ranbir. He hasn’t signed him on yet, but the chances of it happening are very real.”

Even though everything is hush-hush about the project, it is learnt that Mani was scheduled to start this particular film before Guru. “It’s a love story with strong characters. Even though Abhi-Ash have verbally agreed, they still have to sign on the dotted line. He wants to go on the floor as soon as his cast is in place, since the script is already ready.”

Mallika Sherawat who did an item song in Guru is also in talks with Mani for the project. “Mani likes to work with people he’s very comfortable with. He loved what Mallika did with the Maiyya Maiyya track and is considering working with her as well.”

The film is yet untitled but is scheduled to be dubbed in Tamil and have a release in the South as well.

Author: Tushar Joshi | Image Courtesy: Mid-Day | Source: Mid-Day

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Dutt, Manyata withdraw marriage application

PANAJI: Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt and his wife Manyata have filed a joint declaration with South Goa's registration authorities seeking withdrawal of their marriage application.

South Goa's Salcette Sub Registrar's office said that both have filed a joint declaration stating that they do not desire to solemnise their marriage under the Portuguese Civil Code, 1867.

The duo in their affidavit said that they have been informed that marriage in Goa is governed by the Portuguese Civil Code, 1867. Both have declared that they intended to get married as per the Special Marriage Act, 1954.

"We are now informed that this Act is not extended to the state of Goa," the declaration reads.

With a desire to revoke and withdraw their marriage application, the duo has said the documents annexed therewith be treated as withdrawn and cancelled.

Sanjay Dutt and Manyata had filed an application before Salcette Sub Registrar Chandrakant Pissurlekar on February 7.

The declaration, which was marred with controversy and allegation of forgery, was supposed to be confirmed within 90 days.

The authorities, who prima facie found that the Goa residence certificate given by Manyata was questionable, had kept the marriage registration on hold after suspending the certificate.

The Times Of India

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LG to drop Abhishek Bachchan as brand ambassador

PUNE: LG Electronics India, the local unit of the South Korean consumer durables major, is set to drop actor Abhishek Bachchan as its brand ambassador. LG’s agreement with Bachchan Jr, which was signed in 2006 for endorsing its range of home appliances, is scheduled to expire on February 29 and it is reliably learnt that the company doesn’t want to renew the pact.

“We had signed him for two years and it is unlikely that we will renew our association with him,” a senior LG official said on condition of anonymity. Although reasons weren’t specified, sources said the company isn’t too happy with Abhishek’s recent performances at the box office and isn’t confident he would give adequate mileage to its brand.

Abhishek has not given a single hit in the past year, after ‘Guru’ that was released in January 2007. He was seen in Yashraj’s Jhoom Barabar Jhoom (June 2007) and Laaga Chunari Mein Daag (October 2007), both of which were flops at the box office. He also had guest appearances in ‘Shootout At Lokhandwala’ (May 2007,) and in ‘Ram Gopal Varma Ki Aag’ (August 2007). Abhishek also played himself in a half-a-minute role in Shahrukh Khan’s ‘Om Shanti Om’, which was released in November 2007.

LG is now looking for a new brand ambassador and sources said it is thinking of tying up with a cricketer on the lines of its arch-rival Samsung that has roped in former Indian cricket captain Rahul Dravid as its brand ambassador.

Abhishek Bachchan had been appointed as LG’s brand ambassador as part of a move by the company to give its home appliance division a brand new identity, a youthful image and connect with the customer. It was the first time that LG had signed on a brand ambassador to get a new positioning and lend a differential appeal.

Interestingly, LG’s reasons at the time of signing on Abhishek were that Bachchan has a sophisticated image and of being a caring human being. LG had also said that Abhishek’s appeal transcends across all sections and demographics of the society, a vital element for a consumer durable company.

Meanwhile, close on the heels of mobile handset maker Nokia’s corporate level tie-up with Airtel for handset bundling, LG is also in talks with a cellular operator for a similar arrangement.

LG’s GSM business head Anil Arora said the partnership is likely to be announced in the first week of March. “We are working aggressively in that direction. I cannot confirm right now that we are on air with anybody, but we are at an advanced stage and close to announcing a partnership in the near future.”

The Economic Times

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KJo's new film is about terrorism

Karan Johar is all set to make his next film with his favorite stars Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol. It is believed that the title Khan which he has finalized for this film is with filmmaker Keshu Ramsay.

According to reports Karan Johar who wanted this title since a long time has finally managed to get it last week. When we asked Keshu Ramsay, he denied the reports saying that the title Khan is still with him. “The title Khan is with me and I have haven’t given it to anyone.”

He informs us that Karan is yet to talk to him about the title Khan. He is speaking though his people who are in negotiation with him. “I had registered this title a long time back. I have the script ready with me which demands the same title. I was not aware that Karan wants the same title for his film. He is yet to talk to me about this.”

When asked if Karan requests him, will he give the title? He replies, “Certainly, if Karan and Shah Rukh Khan feels that the title is apt for their movie then I don’t have any issue. I will surrender it to AMPTPP and after that whoever will apply for it, will get it.”

He also informed that he doesn’t have any objection over the title of Karan Johar. “I have no ego problem over the title. Before this I have given titles like Criminal and Bhagam Bhag to the respective producers.”

But what will happen to his film if it requires the same title? “I will scrap it and work on new.” Karan Johar plans to start his film by the end of October.

Reshma Kelkar, Indiatimes Movies

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Where were the Bachchans ?

While we heard some lah-di-dahs whisper, “It’s because Shah Rukh is hosting the event, and you know how rude he was to them last time, nah?”

Others attributed the absence to them not having bagged too many nominations.

The real reason, however, was that the First Family of Bollywood was in mourning. Amitabh’s mother Teji Bachchan passed away a couple of months ago, then close Amar Singh’s dad also passed away recently and the Bachchans aren’t in a celebrating mood.

Now that’s a ‘fair one’, ok!

TNN

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Hot Couple: Ranbir and Deepika

Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone have decided to go public with their relationship at last.

At the 53rd Fair One Filmfare awards function, we actually caught them saying ‘I love you’ to each other, backstage.

The couple came together backstage and stood huddled waiting for their entry. Probably to alleviate the
tension, Ranbir looked deep into Deepika’s eyes and whispered, “I love you”. Deepika smiled shyly and
whispered right back, “I love you too”. They thought no one had heard them. (They forgot that walls have ears.)

After the awards function, both of them headed for Farah Ali Khan’s party, where they held hands and snuggled up to each other through the night.

Later they even kissed each other with abandon, making no bones about their feelings for each other. They know that we all know about their love. And they don’t care. Way to go, Ranbir, Deepika.

The two got close during the shoot for Siddharth Anand’s film in Australia. Cupid hammered his final blow there. Since then, they’ve been pretty much together.

Incidentally, we’ve heard that Deepika ended her relationship with Yuvraj Singh on the phone.

TNN

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Deepika-Yuvi split!

Deepika Padukone’s long list of admirers will now have one name less. She is no longer with cricketer Yuvraj Singh. The OSO actress split with Yuvi a few weeks back and is now dating Ranbir Kapoor.

The reason for the split is Yuvraj’s possessive attitude. A close friend spills the beans. “Deepika was very serious about Yuvraj. In fact, the two were madly in love.

However, after the success of OSO, Deepika got busy and could not give Yuvi as much time. She got busy meeting producers and signing films. This pissed Yuvi who felt he wasn’t getting enough attention from her.”

They were also having other problems. Yuvi was giving her instructions on what to wear and with whom to party. “He was upset with the rumours of her growing proximity to Ranbir.

Before she left for her Australian schedule with Ranbir for the Yash Raj film, they had a huge showdown. She told him to back off and let her breathe, while he warned her not to get too close to Ranbir.”

Sources reveal that Deepika would avoid Yuvi’s calls while in Australia and that’s when he realised their relationship was over. “After getting back, she met him and called it off. Since then, Deepika has been thick with Ranbir and they are happy together.”

Ranbir and Deepika were seen holding hands at Farah and Aqueel’s party after the Filmfare Award night. “They want to keep it private.

They’ve dated in the past, but are extremely serious about each other now. In fact, they were also heard exchanging sweet nothings backstage on the awards night.”

Author: Tushar Joshi | Source: Mid-Day

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Kajol's dance stunt for U, ME AUR HUM

Everybody knows that Ajay Devgan and wife Kajol performed a lovely salsa for Jee le in U, ME AUR HUM but nobody knows that Kajol displayed heights of professionalism while shooting for the song, despite an injury!!!

Says a unit member, "We shot the song 'Jee le' on the cruise liner. Ashley Lobo has done the choreography. Once while performing the number in the evening Kajol had to leap down from the upper deck and during the leap she badly sprained her ankle and fell down injuring herself, thanks to her five-inch heels! But despite that, she took some pain-killers and shot the very next day for the same shot with full bravado!"

The source adds, "Kajol is very professional and always listens to the director. Plus Ajay too was very calm and composed and encouraged Kajol to give her best"

Ajay says, "I wanted a salsa for the song and the steps because that was the requirement of the script. It was an expensive shoot - more than 100 dancers and we had a crowd of about 600 people on the cruise. First we decided what the requirement of the script was and then Vishal made the salsa number. Once Kajol is convinced about the script and the screenplay you don't need to convince her about anything else. It was highly brave and professional of her to finish he shoot despite her bad leg injury."

Well, we always knew Kajol was a director's actress!

Bollywood Trade News Network

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Salman reveals his upgraded six-pack abs!

We have already told you about the original fitness icon, Salman Khan, having imposed self-discipline in order to achieve peak fitness to execute the action scenes for the Hindi remake of the Tamil and Telugu blockbuster, POKKIRI. Here is more on the same.

The hot and fiery Khan recently did what is expected and associated with him. No, he did not bash up any journos or fought with his girlfriend, as he has matured with age! As per trade sources, Salman Khan, while shooting for a portion of the climax of the POKKIRI remake at Mukesh Mills (Colaba, Bombay), was spotted without his shirt as he revealed his perfectly tuned and enhanced six-packs, much to the delight of the onlookers!

While on Boney Kapoor's much-awaited WANTED DEAD AND ALIVE (tentative title of the POKKIRI remake), directed by ace choreographer, Prabhu Deva, the action flick is due to release during the latter half of the year.

Abid, Bollywood Trade News Network

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Kareena Kapoor on Vogue Cover

"When it rains, it pours" said a famous poet. The same verse can be applied to almost all the leading magazines (both fashion and film based), who seem to be unable to resist themselves from having the're-discovered' Diva of Bollywood, Madame Kareena Kapoor, the reigning queen of the raining magazine covers!

The latest one to cash in on this is the Indian version of Vogue, for whom Kareena has shot some really breath-taking snaps (aren't all her snaps breath-taking?) with some of the most desirable dressings to go with the various moods of the shoot!

This interview is yet another affirmation of the fact that Kareena is one person who is the same on and off screen! She is so very sweet enough to confess that she had done films in the past for money or for mere greed. She also speaks about the similarities between 'Geet'-her character in Jab We Met -and the real-life Kareena. And guess what, she also reveals the secret behind her hour-glass figure.

Read all of this and more to discover the real Kareena yet again…only till yet another magazine hits the stands with the much-coveted cover-girl of all reasons and seasons: Kareena Kapoor!

Bollywood Hungama

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Shah Rukh Khan Krazzy 4 - Song Promo

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Happy Birthday Shahid Kapoor!

Bollywood's 'Chocolate boy' Shahid Kapoor must be definitely rejoicing this 27th birthday in high spirits. This young man has enough reasons to jamboree for his career heading northwards after his back to back solo hits VIVAH & JAB WE MET and prestigious films in his kitty playing lead roles with some of the bollywood's big brands like Yashraj, Vishal Bhardwaj, Boney Kapoor productions, Aziz Mirza etc.

While we wish him a warm birthday and a bright future ahead, you too can wish him on this occasion!

Bollywood Trade News Network

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Akki goes underwater

Akshay Kumar always pushes the envelope when it comes to action, and for Percept Picture Company’s 8X10, the actor pulled out all the stops. Akki went to Bangkok and did a special course to train for the challenging underwater sequence.

The underwater sequence was shot by director Nagesh Kukunoor at a pool in Chembur last week. Managing Director Percept Holdings, Shailender Singh says, “We are very excited about this film. It’s a psychological super-thriller and there can’t be a better actor to play this role.

Akshay is so committed… we suggested using a stuntman but he ruled it out and insisted on doing the part himself, and the results are amazing.” Apparently, such a scene has never been seen before in Hindi cinema. “Akki is playing a super-hero but not with supernatural powers.” he clarifies.

The scene is a highly adventurous sequence in deep waters and the actor is tied up in chains. It’s a long fight sequence with other co-actors. Before leaving for Bangkok last night, Akshay spoke about the underwater sequence, “It was an amazing experience because I did it myself. You have to be well-prepared for underwater sequences.

If you don’t do it properly, it can cause all kinds of health problems. Before I shot for the scene, I made sure that I was well-trained to do it. I underwent a special course in Bangkok for the same. I even have a paddy instructor’s certificate, which one only gets after getting trained in underwater swimming.”

Author: Upala KBR | Source: Mid-Day

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The 53rd Annual Filmfare Awards - Event

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Winners of 53rd Annual Filmfare Awards

Best Actor
Shahrukh Khan - Chak De India

Best Actress
Kareena Kapoor - Jab We Met

Best Film
Taare Zameen Par

Best Director
Aamir Khan - Taare Zameen Par

Critics' Award For Best Actor
Darsheel Safary - Taare Zameen Par

Critics' Award For Best Actress
Tabu - Cheeni Kum

Critics' Award For Best Film
Shimit Amin - Chak De India

Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Male)
Irrfan Khan - Life in a... Metro

Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Female)
Konkana Sen Sharma - Life in a... Metro

Best Lyrics
Prasoon Joshi - (Maa - Taare Zameen Par)

Best Playback Singer (Male)
Shaan - (Jab Se Tere Naina - Saawariya)

Best Playback Singer (Female)
Shreya Ghosal - (Barso Re - Guru)

Best Music
A. R. Rahman - Guru

Best Story
Amol Gupte - Taare Zameen Par

Best Screenplay
Anurag Basu - Life in a... Metro

Best Dialogue
Imtiaz Ali - Jab We Met

R. D. Burman Award
Monty Sharma (Saawariya)

Lifetime Achievement Award
Rishi Kapoor

Power Awards
Yash Chopra & Aditya Chopra

Best Debut (Male)
Ranbir Kapoor - Saawariya

Best Debut (Female)
Deepika Padukone - Om Shanti Om

Best Special Effects
Red Chillies Entertainment - Om Shanti Om

Sony Head N Shoulders Fresh Face of the Year Award
Deepika Padukone

Best Background Score
A. R. Rahman - Guru

Best Editing
Amitabh Shukla - Chak De India

Best Choreography
Saroj Khan (Barso Re Megha Re - Guru)

Best Action
Rob Miller - Chak De India

Best Art Direction
Samir Chanda - Guru

Best Sound
Leslie Fernandes - Johnny Gaddaar

Best Cinematography
Sudhip Chatterjee

Best Costumes
Sujata Sharma - Gandhi My Father

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Time to get the black lady!

Welcome to the 53rd Fair One Filmfare Awards 2007 tonight.

A black tie-and-gown evening where the glitz and gloss will be provided by Bollywood’s top stars as they walk down the red carpet of the Yash Raj Studios in Andheri from 7 pm onwards. Inside, and leading a selected and invited audience through the awards ceremony, will be Bollywood Badshah Shah Rukh Khan and Chhote Nawab Saif Ali Khan. Emcee entertainment, naturally, is guaranteed to take on a whole new bold and exciting meaning with these two gentlemen on stage.

The lovely Vidya Balan is the third emcee of the evening. Then, of course, the show belongs to the stars who have been nominated for the prestigious black statuette. What names of winners the envelope reveals, who takes home the prestigious award, will be known only later tonight.

Meanwhile, to give you a peep behind the curtain, the awards ceremony this year has some real winners entertaining on stage. Like the sexy Kareena Kapoor and dazzling Deepika Padukone, watch them dance, and Khiladi Akshay Kumar, who turns out an outstanding performance, while there’s also Himesh Reshammiya, Vivek Oberoi and Neil Nitin Mukesh, all taking the razzmatazz a notch higher.

BT was privy to the rehearsals over the past few days at Yash Raj Studios. So was Karisma Kapoor who sat with Saif and watched kid sis Kareena swish through numbers like It’s Rocking and Mauja Re Mauja. Watching also from the wings, and staying back till a late hour, was young Ranbir Kapoor. His whole attention was on the ravishing Deepika Padukone who will dance to Dhun Tana Nana Dhun and Aankho Mein Teri from her debut film Om Shanti Om.

Akshay Kumar, a veteran at such things, will perform to the superhit numbers of 2007 Hey Babby, Hare Ram, Hare Ram and the title track from Welcome.

Neil Nitin Mukesh, excited to be at his first Filmfare Awards function, is doing the title track of his Johnny Gaddar and Move The Body from the same film. "I have always watched the Filmfare Awards from afar, to be a part of it now is an honour for me," he said. And, finally, Vivek Oberoi, who will remind the audience of Aye Ganpat from Shootout at Lokhandwala. "I’m excited, the song’s one of my favourites, but it’s done here in a very different and fantastic way," he revealed. As for Himeshbhai, he will say Aasalum Waleum, so be sure to reply Walekaum Salam!

The dances have been choreographed by Shiamak Davar while Manish Malhotra has designed the costumes worn by Kareena and Deepika and Narendra Kumar those for Neil and Vivek. Sabina Khan has dressed up Akshay.

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Saif’s winning over Karisma too

Looks like Saif Ali Khan is slowly winning over girlfriend Kareena Kapoor’s khandaan.

After earning few good words from Bebo’s father Randhir Kapoor who was recently quoted saying if Bebo is happy, they have no problem.

Now Saif seems to be majorly bonding with Bebo’s sister Karisma Kapoor, who was his co-star in Hum Saath Saath Hain some years back.

Recently, when Karisma was rehearsing for a grand show, Saif came over and they were seen chatting and laughing away, catching up on old and new times.

It was certainly a pleasant sight, for Saif really wants to settle down with his lady love, but he is ensuring that everything will be done with the blessings and consent of the elders in the family.

TNN

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Run JLo run: Amrita

Actress Amrita Arora is one happy girl, who is upping her sex appeal by the day.

At least, that’s what she herself thinks. The girl has performed a sizzling dance number in Ravi Chopra’s next production, and is very happy with the output.

She told us, “I’m going to give JLo a run for her money.” Well, that would mean working your ‘butt’ out too, Amu!

TNN

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Best performer should win, says Kareena

Kareena Kapoor, one actress we thought loved to play her flamboyant self onscreen as well, seems to be talking a different tale. Kareena’s role in Jab We Met has not just won her critical acclaim, but also nomination in the ‘Best Actor In A Leading Role’ category for the 53rd Fairone Filmfare Awards. This simple and sweet love story where Kareena was paired opposite Shahid, saw the ex- lovers putting behind all their personal issues to give the audiences the cutest romantic flick of the year.

But for those of you who thought the role was a child’s play for Kareena since she plays a happy-go-lucky girl in the film, somewhat similar to her real life persona, Kareena says that you are mistaken. In an exclusive interview with movies.indiatimes, Kareena Kapoor said, “It was not at all easy for me to play Geet’s character in Jab We Met. But I did my best and as far as winning the Filmfare Awards is concerned, it is for the jury to decide.”

/photo.cms?msid=2803639 While Kareena’s performance in the film is unquestionable, the other contenders nominated for the award include Vidya Balan (Bhool Bhulaiyaa), Deepika Padukone (Om Shanti Om), Rani Mukherjee (Laaga Chunari Mein Daag), Madhuri Dixit (Aaja Nachle) and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan (Guru). When asked to comment on her competition and everyone’s chances of bagging the award, Kareena said, “I think everyone has done a great job, not just this year, but every year. I really believe that the best performer should win.”

We say Amen to that...

Indiatimes Movies

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Shah Rukh ‘Item’ Khan

There was a time when most of the movies getting released had a sultry number by a special appearance from an ‘Item’ girl. Many Bollywood beauties from Bipasha Basu to Aishwarya Rai have entertained the audience with their item numbers. These songs were a special attraction to the movie goers.

But item numbers featuring a sexy dance number or a sultry actress grooving to the music is a thing of the past now. The reason, men are entering the field, give way ladies. We got to see a hot six-pack SRK in Om Shanthi Om. Since King Khan was the hero of the film this song cannot be called a full fledged item number, though we can’t deny the fact that king khan looked hot in this song.

With Rakesh Roshan’s production venture ‘Krazzy 4’ the audience will see two of the top Bollywood heroes perform for the same songs in two individual versions. After his connection with the Roshans in Karan Arjun and Koyla, SRK will rock the stage for them in this item number. The other hottie is none other than the Roshan boy Hrithik who will set the stage on fire with his nimble dance moves.

It is reported that the best part of the item number is that King Khan has not charged a penny for this song. It seems he is repaying the producer for his appearance in Farah Khan’s OSO.

Watch out ladies, this is your chance to enjoy!

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Marriage,not yet, declares Katrina!

So you have finally become one of Bolylwood's highest paid actors by bagging a 6 crore deal with Studio 18?
I'm happy that my talent is being recognized. I can't talk about it right now, but yes the figures are close to it.

6 Crore for one film, that's quite a lot of money?
No, no, it's not for one film, but for two films. I'm not in a position to discuss any further on this.

So finally you are out of Salman's shadow?
Now this is weird. Where did it come from (looking irritated)?

You really think you deserve that much money?
Why not? I ended last year with 4 big hits, ‘Namaste London, Apne Partner and Welcome’. And the 4 films made money. So career wise, it's been an extremely fulfilling year for me.

And personally?
Doing well as well. I have taken care of my family and they are happy for me.

What about marriage?
You guys will have to wait for that. I have just started my career and can't afford to give up everything. My first priority is to provide financial security to my family. I have to make them financially secure before marrying someone.

What about the recent news that Salman slapped you?
That was really ridiculous. It was some dirty person’s figment of imagination. I have never really discussed my personal life, but enough is enough. I have always believed that what is personal is personal. But this is too much. The story that has appeared is utter rubbish and fabricated. I suspect that it's been spread by vested interest with ulterior motives. I would like to repeat that nothing of this sort has happened. Normally I don't like to clarify but sometimes one has to take a stand and this is one of those times.

Your next release is Race. Heard that you have done some bold scenes?
It's an action thriller. I had lots of fun shooting for the film. Race is extremely slick and has got an international look. It was so special shooting for Race. I am just looking forward to it

What's on the pipeline?
Race, Singh Is Kingg, Main Yuvraj, and two untitled films with Yashraj films.

Gautam Buragohain, Indiatimes Movies

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Manisha back on silver screen!

Yes guys, she’s still around and is planning to make a comeback from her self imposed exile. And in the pipelines are couples of films and most prominent among them is a film with Gulshan Grover that she recently shot for in London. And now we hear that to come out of her emotional turmoil and her recent break up (we have lost counts of her boyfriends) the lady has opted for a spiritual escape and has joined a Yoga group. May, she find peace of mind.

TNN

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Akki’s fee 1.5 Crore per day!

Riding high on his current superstar status, Akshay Kumar is poised to sign a mega ad deal. His fee for the endorsement is a mindboggling Rs 1.5 crore per day!

With a successful run at the box-office in the past year, the Khiladi’s arithmetic is as simple as Rs 3 crore for two days and Rs 9 crore for six days of work! This is apparently the highest amount paid to any actor.

In the next few days, Akki will sign the deal to endorse the Spykar denim brand. They wanted a big star to be their brand ambassador to be a style icon for today’s youth. Moreover, Sanjay Vakharia, Director Marketing at Spykar is a school friend of Akshay’s and their association goes way back.

“I’m doing this endorsement for someone I’ve known since childhood. And because it is a youth brand. But let’s not talk about the money. I’ll just say I’ll get what I deserve,” says Akshay who has a slew of films lined up including Tashan, Singh Is Kinng, Eight By Ten, Chandni Chowk to China Gate and Kambhakt Ishq.

Adds Akshay’s buddy Sanjay Vakharia, “Akshay is our only choice and nobody is more of a style icon for today’s youth.”

Getting picky

Says an insider, “The deal will be agreed on in the next fortnight. Akki is extremely choosy about his endorsements. After having endorsed a cola, he is now looking for a lifestyle brand that targets the youth. This is all part of his new image-building plan to be a style icon.”

Clear-cut deal

The deal is likely to be signed at Rs 1.5 crore with Akshay giving an entire day to Spykar to shoot their commercials, conduct photo shoots or make appearances at their events. They can then attribute Akshay’s name to the brand for an entire year. If the actor is needed for two days, his fee doubles to Rs 3 crore and they can utilise his name for two years.

Richie Rich

According to B-Town buzz, Akki is rumoured to be the most expensive actor who now commands an astronomical fee of Rs 20-30 crore per film!

As an industry source adds, “Akshay is now looking at being not only the biggest star but also the richest. He is not going to cut his market price even for his director-producer friends. His agenda is clear-cut — to rake in the moolah that befits his current stature in the industry.

Shaheen Parkar, Mid-Day

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Lara Dutta on FNL cover

Come February and the only name that strikes your mind is that of Valentine, the Love-God! This is that time of the year when red becomes the universal colour, which depicts and symbolizes love.

Well, the current issue of 'FNL' (Fashion N Life), a leading fashion mag, has their February issue in green, the reason being that it has none other then the eternal lady of all reasons and seasons Lara Datta, the 'Diva Of Romance' herself, posing in a dreamy background.

This issue has the Lara girl bare her heart out, touching upon various aspects like her family, modelling, her sense of style, competition, regrets, importance of being a woman, her take on art and commercial films, Bollywood and of course ...Love ( with a capital 'L').

A sincere request to all : PLEASE do keep the keys of your lockers ready, as you will definitely need to keep this copy under security, since it stands a huge chance of being stolen, considering the fact that the rumor-mill is going abuzz about ...Lara has broken up and is single, hence, ready to mingle!

Bollywood Hungama

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Preity Zinta does 'bhangra' on the streets

It's time for the Dil Se girl to celebrate. The reason being the launch of her IPL team Mohali, for the Twenty-20's inaugural tournament. She was accompanied by her beau Ness Wadia, Mohit Burman and Karan Paul. Preity and gang have started off with a SMS campaign for naming the still-unnamed Mohali team. The pretty Preity said that it's the love for the game of cricket that has got all of them together.

And with Tom Moody being roped in as its coach and Yuvraj Singh leading the gang (as the team's captain), Preity is pretty much confident that the Mohali team will win the inaugural Twenty-20 match.

Bollywood Hungama

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"Yes, I'm doing Raju Hirani's Idiots" - Aamir Khan

"Yes I am doing Raju Hirani's film being produced by Vinod Chopra tentatively titled Idiots," writes Aamir Khan in the latest entry on his blog aamirkhan.com thus confirming the speculation about the fate of Hirani's film. Aamir had acknowledged before the release of Taare Zameen Par that he is considering Hirani and Vinod Chopra's offer provided he likes the final script. His latest post confirms reclusive superstar's plans post Ghajini Remake this year.

Aamir begins his latest post by spilling the shooting plans, "Ghajini resumes, shooting today on the roads of Bombay." Reportedly, this action thriller has earned the unique distinction of being sold for a whopping Rs 90 crore. Confirming the same, Sandeep Bhargava, Head of The Indian Film Company said, "Ghajini has been the highest grossing Tamil hit. I believe that the remake of Ghajini will be one of the biggest films of this year. It stars Aamir Khan, so it's a special film. We have acquired it at a value that includes marketing and print expenses. We are working out a distribution strategy for the movie."

Talking about the famed resolutions to his fans, Aamir further writes, "I have managed to stick to no smoking, my workouts have begun again, diet is also getting back slowly though sometimes I break it, and sleeping is still not totally in place though that has seen an improvement too." Khan has been following a strict exercise regimen of three and a half hours and above for six days a week as he wants to get into super shape for the latter half of Ghajini as he shall be bare bodied for most parts. In fact he told his physical trainer Satyajit that he would make such a fantastic body that people will flock the theatres just to see his fine toned physique.

In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama last week Satyajit said, "Whenever you'll see him in the film, you'll say, wow that's Aamir Khan. For last one year he is working really hard He weighed 84 kgs but now he has lost around 16 kgs. I can't say much but he is looking superb." The perfectionist Khan has built a gym combining two garages within his society and it has cost him an eye-popping Rs 55 lakhs. He did pose for a magazine last month while exercising but he was wearing a full sleeves shirt for he doesn't wish to give away his toned look yet. Hmmmm….talk about being secretive!

It seems he has left the grand success of TZP behind and is looking forward to the road ahead. Yet there's some work left on his directorial debut. "As for DVD release of TZP… work on that is progressing but a little slow. Be assured that I am working very hard to come out with the best quality and some really special extras," Aamir writes. Well, knowing the man who stands true to most of what he says TZP DVD will be something to look forward to. As of now, how about try-n-get-the-info on where Aamir is shooting for Ghajini and letting us know pronto!

Faridoon Shahryar, Bollywood Hungama

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'OSO' a 'box-office hit' in Berlin Film Fest

The premiere of Hindi blockbuster "Om Shanti Om" was one of the most popular events of the 58th Berlin International Film Festival, which concludes here tonight with the awarding of the golden and silver bears for the best films in the competition section.

Berlinale sources told reporters that in terms of ticket sales, "Om Shanti Om" featuring superstar Shah Rukh Khan in the leading role was the 'box-office hit' of the 11-day festival.

No other films in the festival's 13 main sections had generated so much public interest as the premiere of the Farah Khan-directed film, they said.

Tickets for the four screenings it had in the Berlinale Special Programme were sold out within minutes after their sales were opened on the internet and many film fans spent overnight at the ticket counters to be the first to snatch the most sought-after tickets of the festival.

Some tickets were later offered for sales on the internet for prices exceeding ten to 12 times the original price.

Shah Rukh drew larger crowds than Hollywood celebrities like pop diva Madonna, director Martin Scorsese, film stars Ben Kingsley and Penelope Cruz or the Rolling Stones band when he visited Berlin to attend the German premiere, participants and festival organisers said.

Shah Rukh's Red Chillies Entertainment produced the movie for Indian film financing and distribution firm Eros Entertainment.

Sahara Samay

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"It is my pleasure to act with the superstar Rajnikanth." - Aishwarya

Aishwarya Rai has hit on the rumours which suggested that she has pulled out of Shankar's Robot due to her pregnancy. The Bollywood beauty has not only confirmed her plans to to play lead role opposite superstar Rajinikanth but also rubbished the baby rumours.

In an interview to a private television channel, the Bollywood beauty confirmed that she is being paied with Rajini and very much there in the project.

"I don't know why you people are so eager to spread such dubious gossip. The script too is very good so I'm going to act in the role of Rajini's leading lady in Robot. It is my pleasure to act with the superstar," she told.

"After hearing the gossip about my pregnancy, I got numerous phone calls from almost all over the world. Abhishek and I have planned to look at children after 3 years. Till that I'm going to push forward my career," she added.

According to some reports, Ash has been offered a hefty Rs 6 crore to act in the film. Robot will be made in three languages at an estimated cost of Rs. 125 crore.

Santabanta

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Ranbir is the cover boy of Cosmopolitan

Girls are in for a treat this February as B-town's latest heartthrob Ranbir Kapoor is the cover boy of fashion magazine Cosmopolitan. The dude with the drop-dead gorgeous looks can surely sweep a thousand girls of their feet with his charm.

The scion of the illustrious Kapoor family gives his fans a rare treat in this exclusive interview where he talks about his first crush, the most romantic thing his girl did for him and even his views on casual flings and one night stands. This surely makes an interesting read, doesn't it girls?

Bollywood Hungama

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Akshay and Twinkle in Goa

Akshay Kumar has bought an old Portuguese bungalow on the Anjuna beach in Goa. The deal is said to have cost over a whopping Rs 5 crore.

Last year, while staying in Anjuna, Tina saw the property; and brought it to Akshay’s notice. She was keen that they acquire it and took a keen interest in the deal — including looking into the papers and other details.

Ding dong well

Twinkle fell in love with the colonial house as soon as she set her eyes on it and Khiladi Kumar decided to buy the beach bungalow for the biwi.

Says a source close to Akshay, “He is in the process of finalising a deal with the owner of the bungalow. It’s an old Portuguese bungalow built more than 75 years ago with its own well, a large garden, and a compound wall. The bungalow may be old but it’s in a very good condition.”

Akshay and Twinkle love Goa and visit as often as they can get away from their busy schedules.

Designs galore

Tina, who is an interior designer has many ideas about how she wants to do up the place. Initially, they looked at the property as an investment but now they think of it as home, and want it to turn the place into a private retreat.

Adds the source, “Tina will be going there from time to time and refurbishing and designing the interiors and decorations according to Akshay’s and her taste.”

Upala KBR, Mid-Day

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Deepika’s beau trouble?

Its confirmed, at least for this week, Deepika Padukone’s boyfriend is Ranbir Kapoor. Rumours linking her and her various men change faster than box office collections on a Monday morning.

Last week, we heard that Deepika is back to her old boyfriend Nihar Pandya! However, we say Deepika and Ranbir are very much together and are enjoying each other’s company. The romance that flourished in hot, sunny Australia on the sets of Siddharth Anand’s next for Yash Raj is only getting more intimate here, in Amchi Mumbai!

Ranbir and Deepika have also recently shot for a Pepsi commercial with Shah Rukh Khan. People present on the set inform us that Ranbir and Deepika were very much comfortable together. In fact they enjoyed the shoot and loved spending quality time with each other. That’s not all, the couple were also spotted chatting and exchanging sweet nothings at a suburban coffee shop in Mumbai! And it was a really long coffee break as it spilled over to four hours.

It can be recalled that Deepika has chosen to keep mum about her affairs whenever asked. Whether it’s Nihar, Ranbir or Yuvraj Singh, this OSO girl has been linked up many times but more than explaining her side she has preferred to be silent!

But now we realize that her dimpled smile is speaking much more than her ...

Reshma Kelkar, Indiatimes Movies

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Aishwarya confirms acting in ‘Robot’

There was news making the rounds yesterday that we might not get to see the Bollywood beauty Aishwarya Rai acting opposite our superstar in the sci-fi flick ‘Robot’. The reason that was sighted that she wanted to have babies before she hits 35.

But Aishwarya herself has quashed all rumors and confirmed that she will be acting as Rajini’s heroine in Shankar-directed ‘Robot’. She has confirmed this in her latest interview to a private news channel.

Talks are going on that Aish will star in on more Manirathnam film soon. This film will be a bilingual in Hindi and tamil. The best part is that Aish will get to act opposite her Husband Abhishek Bachchan in this film too. The earlier film we saw the coming together of this real-life pair was in Manirathnam film ‘Guru’.

This whooping 125-crore big-budget film will soon start rolling, and we have reports that Aish has already received a whooping sum as advance for her role in this film. Aish has said that she has liked the script of ‘Robot’ in which she gets to essay a very different and novel role.

Now folks this confirmation from the lady herself has quashed all rumors suggesting that the Rajini-Aishwarya pair is jinxed!

IndiaGlitz

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'Devdas' director finds his 'Saawariya'!!

Sanjay Leela Bhansali is well known for his intense, poignant & stark subject films. People are hardly aware about his personal life, as the ace director always maintained silence on the personal front, but if the sources are to be believed, the intelligent director SLB & famous choreographer Viabhavi Merchant are ready to mingle, it quite surprised us.

The two worked together for several years for the films like HUM DIL DE CHUKE SANAM, DEVDAS and SAAWARIYA. But it was only during the making of SAAWARIYA the two vibrant talents got close to each other. From the last few months the couple has been seen together publicly. During SAAWARIYA premiere also Vaibhavi walked along with Bhansali's mother Leela & sister Bela. Very recently Zee Sa Re Ga Ma Pa L'il Champs landed at Bhansali's residence on the warm invite by his mother Leela. But to our surprise, also present to wish the kids were Vaibhavi Merchant & Music composer Ismail Darbar. Vaibhavi also once in 'Nach Baliye 3' hinted indirectly by saying that even she has a 'baliye' in her life, but didn't really reveal the name. Only now our grey cells have over worked to hint if the cat is out of the bag yet!!

By observing the flow of events it appears the two singles are ready to mingle, but are not ready to disclose anything as of now. We are not in a hurry either!

Well we are quite surprised to know about the couple (to be!), are you surprised too? What do you have to say...

Bollywood Trade News Network

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Jodhaa Akbar's 'kiss'a

We caught a preview of Ashutosh Gowariker’s epic tale of ‘lesser-known lovers’ Jodhaa Akbar yesterday at Adlabs
Studios, Film City.

In the span of three hours what unravelled, among other things, was a paean to the unmistakable chemistry between the lead pair, Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan.

If you’re one of those people who believe that spouses weren’t intimate 500 years ago, get set for a re-education of sorts.Gowariker’s Jodhaa Akbar features a blink-and-miss romantic interlude between the Mughal emperor and his Rajput wife.

It begins with the thawing of the cold vibes between Akbar and his consort (to the tunes of Jashn-e-bahaara). Akbar gets touchy-feely and there are a few light kisses and a lingering peck on the cheek for his blushing biwi. Jodhaa (before this) has been fiercely independent and their marriage hasn’t been consummated. In the scene, she finally succumbs to her husband’s overtures.

Gowariker has aesthetically shot the lovemaking scene keeping in mind the period the story is set in. We’re guessing a few people won’t be too happy after the reviews (from critics and readers) come out and people start talking about the scene. Including a man named Abhishek Bachchan.

WHAT STANDS OUT IN JODHAA AKBAR
A bare-chested Hrithik practising his skill with the sword
His duel with an elephant
A scene where Akbar tells Jodhaa that he can neither read nor write
The swordfight between Jodhaa and Akbar after he goes to Amer (Jaipur) to manao her.
The Sufi number, Khwaja Mere Khwaja
The hand-to-hand combat between Niketan Dheer (Sharifuddin) and Hrithik (Jalaluddin Akbar)
The lovemaking scene between Jodhaa and Akbar
When he throws a close aide, Adham Khan headlong from the balcony (twice!) for killing Raza Murad’s character, Shamsuddin Atka Khan
The elaborate dance sequence after Akbar annuls pilgrimage tax (Azeem-O-Shaan-Shahenshah)

Bryan Durham, Mid-Day

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Katrina Kaif bags 2-film deal with Studio 18

Katrina Kaif is currently riding high. After all, she was one of the most successful actresses of last year with her films Namastey London., Welcome and Partner becoming blockbusters.

The stunning looking actress has now reportedly bagged a 2-film deal with Studio 18 for an astronomical amount of Rs.6 crores.

While neither Katrina nor Sandeep Bhargava (CEO-Studio 18) denied this, they were not really willing to reveal much about the deal.

Katrina who has already worked in Studio 18's films like Welcome, Namastey London and the forthcoming Singh Is Kinng seemed excited at the prospect of continuing the association.

Well, with a lot of big releases like Abbas Mustan's Race and even Subhash Ghai's Yuvraaj already in her kitty, this 'Kool Kat' is surely making hay while the sun shines brightly on her.

Bollywood Hungama

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Workentine Day

It’s no-play for B-Town actors, at least, most of them as they get ready to face the cameras on a day for dilwaale

You see them sizzle the celluloid with their on-screen ardour.

Whether running around trees (old style) or singing of love and lust in a rain-drenched numbers, we think actors epitomize the perfect coo-some twosome.

Yet, on Valentine’s Day, most of them will do nothing more exciting than work. With shootings eating up their entire day, our Bollywood love bugs will be whispering sweet nothings, only to the camera though.

Aishwarya Rai
I’ll be attending the premiere of Jodhaa-Akbar in Delhi on Valentine’s Day. But Abhishek will be with me. So no complaints.

Bipasha Basu
We’re going for a short trip to Cape Town. For the last three years on Valentine’s Day, John and I have been in different countries. I’m looking forward to this flash holiday.

Amrita Rao
I’m shooting all day and attending a birthday party in the evening. I wish all those people in love remain so forever. And those who don’t, may they please find love this Valentine’s Day.

Koena Mitra
Since I don’t have anyone special in my life, I’d do the usual things, like watching a movie with my girlfriends, shopping till I drop and some harmless male-bashing with my girlie pals. And hmmmm, I may do some serious flirting. Is that allowed?

Priyanka Chopra
I don’t believe you need a reason or a particular day to say you love someone. When you’re in love, every day is special.

Celina Jaitly
Though I’m working on Valentine’s Day, I have a special show for the day on MTV for the singles. I’ll watch it and have a good laugh

Riya Sen
Nothing exciting. I’ll be working. I’m in Delhi on the 14th for an appearance.

Malaika Arora
I want to spend the day with all my loved ones. I don’t anyone to be alone on Valentine’s Day.

Amrita Arora
Will be shooting on Valentine’s. I wish to have my loved ones with me forever.

Tanushree Dutta
I’m shooting on Valentine’s Day. So no Valentine plan. I wish I’d be in Paris for the next Valentine’s Day.

And the guys…

Zayed Khan
It was on Valentine’s Day, five years ago, that I proposed to Malaika. So it’s a doubly special day for me. I think I’m going to try my hand at being a chef, and have a go at some fine wine that I’ve been saving up for us for a special day. We’ll be at home since we don’t want to leave our son Zidaan alone.

Neil Mukesh
Will be going out with a secret Valentine to a secret place.

Kushal Punjabi
Besides shooting, I’ll be doing what all other lovers do on Valentine’s Day. Exchang-ing cards and listening to romantic songs. What did you think?

Dino Morea
Since I’ve no love life, I’ll be doing some good for society. Will be meeting cancer patients who are couples and helping one another through life. Then I’m off to Delhi for an event.

Aryan Vaid
My Valentine’s Day plans are open. I’m single so nothing’s happening.
I want to celebrate love. It’s such an amazing time and with the Mumbai weather being so romantic, this Valentine’s Day will be special even without a play-mate.

Muzammil Ebrahim
It’s my mother’s birthday on Valentine’s Day, so there’ll definitely be lots of celebrations.

Manoj Bajpai
I don’t believe in Valentine’s Day. You don’t need one special day to show your partner how much you love her.

Farhan Akhtar
Since I’m shooting for Rock On, it’ll be a very routine Valentine’s Day for me. But the night gets exciting when I get to see an intensely romantic film, Jodhaa-Akbar.

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V-Day is beyond me: SRK

He is the eternal Rahul of Indian cinema, the lover who always gets the heroine in the end.
But call him that and Shah Rukh Khan just throws up his hands and says resignedly, “People call me a lot of names; I don’t mind being called any!

Then on a serious note, the King of Romance adds, “I have reached the giving stage of my Bollywood love affair. I want to give more and more love to my audience through my work. If you want to call it love... please go ahead!”

But SRK is not the kind to straitjacket love in the confines of Valentine’s Day. “I have never really understood this day. According to me, love has so many facets. For instance, if you asked Don Juan, he would have said that loving 1700 women was the nicest thing in his life.

And I think I would respect that also.

The beauty of love is that it has no boundaries. For me, love means my children. I am in love with the undiplomatic and innocent stage of life that they are in,” he says.

And isn’t it a little kid, Darsheel Safary, who is competing with Mr Khan for the Filmfare best actor award too? “Every year the competition keeps getting younger. Very soon, I will be nominated with an unborn baby,” he smiles.

Times Of India

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Bebo's in Idiots now ?

If all goes well, Kareena Kapoor’s dream of working with Aamir Khan might just come true. Last week, she was approached by Rajkumar Hirani to act opposite Aamir in Idiots.

Says a source, “Kareena has always been very keen to work with Aamir and Rajkumar Hirani. Last time, Aamir and Bebo were to work in Mani Ratnam’s Lajjo but the film got scrapped. But now, it seems Kareena may just be working with Aamir. Last week, Kareena and Raju had a hush-hush meeting
where he narrated her the script of Idiots. Kareena is very excited about it.”

The source adds, “Though Kajol is telling people that she hasn’t read Raju’s film and will consider the film after she reads the script. It’s a fact that when Raju found out that she had poked fun at him by asking Shah Rukh Khan who Hirani was and if he was any good as a director, he felt extremely insulted.

He decided to take the script to Kareena who has evinced a keen interest but is trying to work out the dates.”

A source close to Kareena confirms the meeting, “Yes. Its true that Bebo had a closed-door meeting with Raju about Idiots but it’s premature to talk about it. Kareena has loved the Munnabhai films and is very keen to work with Raju.

Kareena is a busy actress who has signed more than five big films this year including Sajid Nadiadwala’s Kambakht Ishq opposite Akshay Kumar and has a huge deal with TV18. If the film with Aamir happens, it will be the cherry on the cake for Kareena.”

Idiots is based on Chetan Bhagat’s Five Point Someone and deals with the story of three IIT students. Hirani has also approached John Abraham, Shah Rukh Khan and Saif Ali Khan for other roles in the film.

Upala KBR, Mid-Day

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Aish wants babies, not 'Robot' ?

The dream project of director Shankar featuring Rajinikanth has met with a stumbling block its heroine Aishwarya Rai said to be keen in having a baby before she turns 35 (on November 1, 2008). It is strongly rumoured that the Bachchan bahu, who was offered a whooping amount of Rs. 6 crore to act in 'Robot', has conveyed the 'Robot' team about her “inability” to act in the film.

The news, if confirmed would be a major setback for the team, which was gearing up for the shooting to be commenced by June this year. Shankar and co are now in a fix as they face the tough task of finding a replacement to the most sought after girl in Indian film industry.

It is not the first time the pairing of Rajini and Ash is jinxed. She has been in the reckoning for Rajini’s movie since the time of 'Padayappa'. It may be recalled that Simran too withdrew from 'Chandramukhi' stating the same reason, i.e., to have a child.

As things stand now, 'Robot' unit is in the hunt for a new actress, who could fit the role.

IndiaGlitz

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Farah delivers 2008’s big hit!

After great expectation comes the big news. Bollywood director and choreographer Farah Khan, who delivered 2007’s biggest hit with Om Shanti Om, yesterday morning delivered triplets amidst family and friends at Jaslok Hospital.

Farah and husband Shirish Kunder, a director himself, became proud parents when she delivered two girls and a boy around 9.15 am. Within minutes, news channels got wind of the delivery and Peddar Road was jammed with traffic as OB vans took up positions outside the hospital’s gates.

The young mother was still under sedation when BT called to congratulate her. Husband Shirish was too delirious to step outside the delivery room and take the call. But Farah’s brother, the rumbustious Bollywood comedian and director Saajid Khan, engaged us in conversation. “We are mighty thrilled... can’t explain our happiness. I have become a mama,” he said proudly.

TNN

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Priyanka v/s Priyanka this June

It has been more than a year since Priyanka Chopra had a major release to her name. SALAAM E ISHQ had released way back in January 2007 while Guddy Dhanoa's BIG BROTHER (starring Sunny Deol) which came a few months later was a delayed project where one hardly saw Priyanka.

Ever since then Priyanka has been lying low with only a special appearance in the item number 'Deewangi Deewangi' for Farah Khan's OM SHANTI OM. In the meanwhile she went on to sign some exciting projects but it would be only in the month of June when one would see her returning to the big screen in a big way.

Incidentally both these films are delayed projects as well though not of the quantum of BIG BROTHER. LOVE STORY 2050 and GOD TUSSI GREAT HO are the two films in question, which are now aiming for a June release. Incidentally LOVE STORY 2050 was supposed to be a late 2007 release while GOD TUSSI GREAT HO has been in limbo ever since one can remember.

However, the producers of both the films are now positive that the films would eventually make it in the first half of 2008. While 13th June is the date locked for the arrival of LOVE STORY 2050, GOD TUSSI GREAT HO is supposed to be unveiled on 27th June.

Both the films see Priyanka in a different light altogether. LOVE STORY 2050 is a futuristic mainstream commercial 'masala mix' films that marks the debut of Harman Baweja. The film also stars Boman Irani and Archana Puran Singh. Produced by Harry Baweja of DILWALE, DILJALE and QAYAMAT fame, the film was pushed from 2007 to 2008 due to extra attention being required for the special effects.

On the other hand GOD TUSSI GREAT HO is said to be a take off on Jim Carrey's BRUCE ALMIGHTY where Salman Khan enacts the role originally played by Carrey whereas Amitabh Bachchan plays GOD. Marking the debut of writer turned director Rumi Jaffery, GOD TUSSI GREAT HO has Manisha Koirala, Anupam Kher, Rukhsar and Satish Kowshik completing rest of the star cast, the film is produced by Afzal Khan.

In the remainder of the year, Priyanka Chopta would be seen as a central protagonist in Madhur Bhandarkar's FASHION, a UTV production. DRONA is another film where she has an important character to play (as Abhishek Bachchan's personal bodyguard). Goldie Behl who had made his debut with BAS ITNA SA KHWAB HAI directs the film.

She has also signed Dharmendra's home production CHAMPU where she is the leading lady opposite Bobby Deol. Arshad Warsi and Ritesh Deshmukh are the other men in the film. Kabeer Kaushik who had made a mark with coming of age film SEHAR, his debut effort, directs the film.

Joginder Tuteja, Bollywood Trade News Network

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Kareena Kapoor on FHM cover

Just a few days back, scientists all over the world were baffled by the fact that in India, despite facing an all-time drop of temperature, people were not even complaining! After deep probing, it was found that the reason for this was the latest issue of 'FHM', a men's magazine, which features super-hot Kareena Kapoor as the cover girl.

Having said that, let us also offer you a chance of a lifetime! The deal is that If you are a man with 'Nice Eyes, Nice Nose' and know the best possible places that serve 'Chinese food'…, then, voila, you are JUST the man who can give some real competition to Saif, as this is all it takes to qualify as Kareena's date! In the mag, she talks about her likes, dislikes, romance, films, stalkers, some tips and advice for men and of course, Saif!

Bollywood Hungama

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Wedding bells for Sanjay (Munnabhai) Dutt

Sanajy Dutt aka Munna Bhai of tinsel town is all geared up to rekindle his personal and professional life, after facing the trauma all these years. According to industry sources, the long time couple Sanjay Dutt and Manyata tied the knot at a five star hotel in Goa on February 7 under the Special Marriage Act with few close friends and family members as witness. Dutt is also keen to commence with work soon with his all big & pending projects.

While we wish him all the very best and cheerful & peaceful life ahead, even you can give warm regards on the occasion

Post a comment!

Bollywood Trade News Network

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Preity plays a 'bad' actress

Arshad Warsi and Preity Zinta share an identical predicament. They've to play 'bad' actors in their latest films. While in Anil Kapoor's production, Shortcut, Arshad plays bad actor, in Rituparno Ghosh's Last Lear Preity is cast as a bad actress.

That isn't the only problem the actress had to face. Preity had a very real problem on the sets of Jahnu Barua's Harr Pal. Pritam Chakraborty has done the music score. Every time someone mentioned his name she thought they were calling out to her, because Pritam is the name given to her by Bobby Deol.

Harr Pal has been one of Preity’s toughest roles ever. But the role of the Punjabi NRI wife in Deepa Mehta's Heaven On Earth has been her toughest yet. She's still carrying the invisible wounds of the battered wives' character. The shooting was wrapped up on Sunday.

Doing Rituparno Ghosh's Last Lear posed its own problems for Preity. She had never worn a sari or a bindi in her life. "Suddenly Ritu-da asked me to stick on bindis that were almost as large as my face. Initially, I was most reluctant. But then I surrendered completely to his vision. I'm actually looking pretty in Last Lear." Even the international critics have noticed. The reviews make a special mention of Preity.

In its review, Variety mentions, "It's an interesting paradox to watch a star like Zinta deliver a good performance as a woman who's widely known as a bad thespian."

Subash K Jha, Bollywood Hungama

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Farah Khan's triplets arrive

The D-Day has come and how! Very much to the expected anticipation, the ace director cum choreographer, Farah Khan, gave birth to triplets today at Jaslok hospital in Mumbai, at 9.45 am IST.

Speaking to Bollywood Hungama, an excited Shirish Kunder said, “I am feeling on top of the world now.” The triplets include two girls and a boy. The delivery was done by Caesarian operation. At the time of delivery, Farah's husband, Shirish Kunder, and a few family members were present at the hospital. Life couldn't have got any better for the lady in the spotlight!

We at Bollywood Buzz would like to congratulate Farah and Shirish on this auspicious occasion.

You can post your Best Wishes for Farah and Shirish in the comments section below.

Bollywood Hungama

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Aish: The costliest heroine!

The latest buzz over Shankar-Rajini’s next film ‘Robot’ is that the former Miss World, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, who acts as the leading lady to superstar will be paid a whooping 6 crore rupees. The most sought after actress of India touches the highest mark in terms of salary received by any actress in Indian history.

‘Robot’ is in fact creating a history of sorts. It is the costliest film ever made in the subcontinent. The budget of ‘Robot’, which is made simultaneously in Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi, is said to hit 130 crores.

Aish hasn’t received so much salary for a movie even in her Hollywood commitments. The beautiful actress, who has virtually ruled the show world for more than 10 years, is currently getting 2 crores for a Hindi movie and 4 crores for a Hollywood film.

‘Robot’ is expected get rolling floors in April ‘08. The Tamil title is expected to be announced before the commencement of the shooting.

Shankar sure seems to get what he wants though he has to pay the price.

Indiaglitz

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SRK- Kajol, once more!

If there’s one onscreen couple that Bollywood audiences can never get enough of, it’s the Shah Rukh Khan – Kajol pair. The pair that has always created history at box-office since Baazigar, will soon be seen together once more. Karan Johar has managed to sign Kajol for his next project, which will be an emotional love story. The film’s script will be penned by Shibani Bhatija – who wrote Faana and was a co-script writer for Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna.

According to our sources, one major reason that made Kajol say yes to the film was that she didn’t want to upset close friend Shah Rukh. Apparently, SRK was unhappy with the actress when she chose to work with Aamir in Fanaa over Shah Rukh in KANK. Looks like Kajol sure knows how to strike the perfect balance between career moves and friendship tiffs. Kudos to Kads!!!

Indiatimes Movies

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Karan Johar announces four new projects

Dharma Productions is looking to the future and a change is on the cards. After producing five films in the past decade, including the blockbusters Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, Kal Ho Naa Ho and Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna, Karan Johar will be stepping out of his comfort zone and charting new territory.
Contemporary stories relevant to our times and targeted at entertaining the evolved cinegoer, debutante directors, CG animation, introduction of new talent [both on and off camera], Dharma Productions is thinking big and have plans to release three films a year from 2009.

Karan Johar will direct his fourth film [yet untitled], to go on floors from October '08. It will star Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol. The screenplay is by Shibani Bathija [KANK]. Dostana, directed by Tarun Mansukhani, will star Abhishek Bachchan, John Abraham, Priyanka Chopra and Bobby Deol in a special role. The film is slated for release by the end of '08.

Koochie Koochie Hota Hai celebrates a decade of Karan Johar's directorial debut Kuch Kuch Hota Hai. This animation film will be directed by Tarun Mansukhani and co-produced with Prana Studios, a Los Angeles and Mumbai-based renowned 3D animation studio. Koochie Koochie Hota Hai will incorporate the latest innovations in computer graphics and promises to recreate the magic of the original film with the voice of the original cast - Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol and Rani Mukerjee.

The fourth film, yet untitled, will be directed by Rensil D'Silva and star Saif Ali Khan, Kareena Kapoor and one more lead actor. This film will go on floors in October '08 too.

Bollywood Hungama

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Sallu plays kabab mein haddi

Saif and Kareena had their first public jhagda at Amrita Arora’s b’day bash (over Salman Khan!)

It wasn’t an ugly spat. There was no screaming or hysterics involved but it was very obvious to everyone present that the lovers were having a tiff.

A source says, “Bebo and Saif walked in together. She wasn’t her usual perky self. She was moody and withdrawn. The couple kept to themselves in a corner, and were arguing about something. The situation took a turn for the worse after Bebo put on a buddy-buddy show with Salman Khan (soon after Katrina’s exit from the party at 2.30am). Kareena and Karisma have always been extremely fond of him. Bebo went across the room to greet Sallu, and this irritated her Nawab beau.

Possessive Saif>>>

Adds a source close to the couple, “Saif is a very possessive guy. He doesn’t approve of Kareena’s display of affection for other male actors. Also, there were lots of big stars at the party (Salman, SRK) and in a situation like that, Saif gets really insecure. It was very obvious that he was getting irritated with Bebo’s interaction with the other macho men around.”

The source continues, “It doesn’t help that Saif doesn’t have too many friends in the industry, while Bebo is friends with most actors.”

According to an actress present at the party, Bebo is normally restrained around her new beau but that day she was in ‘high spirits’ and was holding Salman’s hand while talking to him. At one point, she even cupped Sallu’s face into her hands.

Saif was sitting across the room and watching this drama. The source continues, “Bebo kept ignoring Saif and chatting with Salman. When she finally went back to Saif’s side, he ignored her. He refused to speak to her and was sulking. She kept asking him what was wrong and why he wasn’t talking to her.”

At some point in the night, the actress began to feel sick, and Saif took her home, but he didn’t speak to her for two days after that and even ignored all her calls and SMSes.

Denials, denials>>>

Saif chose to brush off the incident with, “The story is complete rubbish! Salman is my brother and the party was great fun.” Kareena remained unavailable for comment but a source close to her states, “It’s not true. Bebo didn’t speak to Salman at all. She bumped into Salman on her way out with Saif.”

Upala KBR, Mid-Day

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Now, Paris too will have Shah Rukh waxed

The popularity Shah Rukh Khan enjoys in France came as a surprise to him as well.

Recently SRK was honoured with the prestigious French title, ‘Order of Arts et Lettres’, at a ceremony in Mumbai. Now, plans are afoot to have a wax statue of the superstar at the Grévin Museum in Paris.

Reportedly, SRK was recently approached by delegates from the museum with a request for a statue. Needless to say, the superstar happily gave his nod.

Artists from the museum have already taken the measurements for the statue. Reports have it that unlike SRK’s statue at Madame Tussauds, which is very formally dressed in a black suit, the wax replica at Grévin will have SRK in casual attire. Possibly, it might have the superstar flaunting his by-now-famous six-pack abs.

The statue will reportedly be unveiled in April this year. SRK will fly to Paris to do the honours.

So far the Grévin Museum has the statue of only one Indian – Mahatma Gandhi.

Over the last few years the museum has seen a steady rise in visitors from Asia. The museum apparently sought to attract more such visitors by keeping a wax replica of Asia’s most famous person – SRK.

Apunkachoice

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Nominees - 53rd Annual Filmfare Awards

BEST FILM
Chak De! India
Guru
Jab We Met
Om Shanti Om
Taare Zameen Par

BEST DIRECTOR
Aamir Khan (Taare Zameen Par)
Anurag Basu (Life... In A Metro)
Farah Khan (Om Shanti Om)
Imtiaz Ali (Jab We Met)
Mani Ratnam (Guru)
Shimit Amin (Chak De! India)

BEST ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE (MALE)
Abhishek Bachchan (Guru)
Akshay Kumar (Namastey London)
Darsheel Safary (Taare Zameen Par)
Shahrukh Khan (Chak De! India)
Shahrukh Khan (Om Shanti Om)
Shahid Kapoor (Jab We Met)

BEST ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE (FEMALE)
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan (Guru)
Deepika Padukone (Om Shanti Om)
Kareena Kapoor (Jab We Met)
Madhuri Dixit (Aaja Nachle)
Rani Mukerji (Laaga Chunari Mein Daag)
Vidya Balan (Bhool Bhulaiyaa)

BEST ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE (MALE)
Aamir Khan (Taare Zameen Par)
Anil Kapoor (Welcome)
Irrfan Khan (Life in a... Metro)
Mithun Chakraborty (Guru)
Shreyas Talpade (Om Shanti Om)

BEST ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE (FEMALE)
Konkona Sen Sharma (Life in a... Metro)
Konkona Sen Sharma (Laaga Chunari Mein Daag)
Rani Mukerji (Saawariya)
Shilpa Shukla (Chak De! India)
Tisca Chopra (Taare Zameen Par)

BEST MUSIC
A R Rahman (Guru)
Monty Sharma (Saawariya)
Pritam (Jab We Met)
Pritam (Life in a... Metro)
Vishal-Shekhar (Om Shanti Om)

BEST LYRICS
Gulzar…Tere Nina (Guru)
Javed Akhtar…Main Agar Kahoon (Om Shanti Om)
Prasoon Joshi…Maa (Taare Zameen Par)
Sameer…Jab Se Tere Naina (Saawariya)
Vishal Dadlani…Aankhon Mein Teri (Om Shanti Om)

BEST PLAYBACK SINGER (MALE)
A R Rahman …Tere Bina (Guru)
K K…Aankhon Mein Teri (Om Shanti Om)
Shaan…Jab Se Tere Naina (Saawariya)
Sonu Nigam…Main Agar Kahoon (Om Shanti Om)
Sukhawinder Singh…Chak De (Chak De! India)

BEST PLAYBACK SINGER (FEMALE)
Alisha Chinai...It's Rocking (Kay Love Story Hai)
Shreya Ghosal …Barso Re (Guru)
Shreya Ghosal …Yeh Ishq Hai (Jab We Met)
Sunidhi Chauhan …Sajanaji Vari Vari (Honeymoon Travels Pvt Ltd.)
Sunidhi Chauhan …Aaja Nachle (Aaja Nachle)

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Now it's Rajini Vs SRK!

Now that Kuselan, Rajinikanth's quickie before his Robot, is all set to take off, the gossip mongers are working overtime. Each day some new incredible rumour starts making the rounds.

The latest buzz is that director P Vasu plans to include a song that will have some of Tamil cinema's biggest stars sharing screen space together for the first time ever. And yes, in all probability the creative inspiration behind this idea is Shah Rukh's film Om Shanti Om. One of the most popular songs from this film was All Hot Girls, which featured 31 major stars from Bollywood.

In OSO, Shah Rukh Khan plays a superstar who throws a party after winning an award. Since Kuselan is also about a superstar, Vasu is eager to include a similar sequence in the film.

Although sequences similar to the one in Om Shanti Om have been shot many a time in Bollywood, one has never seen similar sequences in Tamil cinema. But Vasu, who has good rapport with all the stars, hopes to achieve the impossible with Rajini's help.

According to sources, Kamal Haasan, Ajith, Vijay Vikram Trisha, Nayantara and Namitha, are some of the popular actors who Vasu hopes will feature in this song.

The official confirmation is expected soon.

Buzz18

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Karan Johar's multiple releases from 2009

Taking a cue from his friend Aditya Chopra's Yashraj Films, producer-director Karan Johar plans to come out with multiple releases, under his banner, Dharma Productions, from next year.

As per the details available with us, through reliable trade sources, Johar's Dharma Productions will have at least three releases annually, beginning 2009. The tentative schedule for the next year has more or less been finalised. It will see his assistant Tarun Mansukhani's much talked about, Abhishek, John and Priyanka starrer and also RANG DE BASANTI screenplay writer Renzil D'Silva's directorial debut venture, featuring Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor. Obviously the biggest and the most anticipated one will be Karan's next directorial project, KHAN (tentative title) with Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol.
Here's wishing that things go according to Karan's plans, and his Dharma Productions achieves the same level of success, as the premium production house, Yashraj Films.

Abid, Bollywood Trade News Network

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Happy Birthday Abhishek Bachchan

It's 5th February and its time to wish our Gurubhai (Abhishek Bachchan) a HAPPY BIRTHDAY.
Abhishek Bachchan turns 32 today. He is not just hot but 'hautest'! Whatever he does, not just becomes a style, but a fashion statement. He is one of the few rising 'sons' who have made their papa proud. People close to him know him as 'Abhi', whereas all his fans know him as the one and only 'Abhishek Bachchan', a man who Dhoom-ed inside every heart and became a Refugee forever.

Lets us all wish this Guru a very Happy Birthday. Post your wishes in the comments section below.

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Shah Rukh Khan to host a game show

Reality shows are on a constant rise. After the success of Kaun Banega Crorepati 3, Shah Rukh goes ahead to host his next reality show which is on the lines of the US-based show, Are You Smarter than a 5th Grader.

The game show is tentatively titled as Bade Hue Tho Kya Hua - featuring adult contestants who will be questioned on subjects learnt by the children from first to fifth grade. Siddharth Basu, Head of Synergy Adlabs, confirms the news that Shah Rukh would be hosting the show. Synergy Adlabs would produce the reality program. The show was a grand success in US and hence is being re-created in an Indian version.

There will be five rounds in total and would be participated by both kids and adults. Seems like SRK is getting geared up to also rule the small screen.

Bollywood Hungama

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SHAH RUKH KHAN NEWS

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Countdown begins for Kajol's big screen foray

It's a little over two months to go for the release of U ME AUR HUM and the countdown has begun for the much awaited return of Kajol on the big screen.

In a main lead, Kajol was last seen alongside Aamir Khan in FAANA (May 2006). Now it would be exactly after a couple of years that die hard Kajol fans would be cheering aloud on the lady's comeback. In between she was seen in a guest appearance in KABHI ALVIDA NAA KEHNA and OM SHANTI OM though. Both the films have one common factor - Shahrukh Khan.

In U ME AUR HUM, her home production which has hubby Ajay Devgan making his directorial debut, Kajol would be seen as Piya. The film sees her making a transition from a girl to woman as she meets Ajay Devgan, marries him and later sees ups and downs of marriage hood.

U ME AUR HUM also stars Karan Khanna, Isha Sharwani, Sumeet Raghavan, Rituparna Sengupta, Sarika and Divya Dutta. Vishal Bhardwaj is the composer for the film and the soundtrack is expected to hit the stands late February.

Joginder Tuteja, Bollywood Trade News Network

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SHOCKING! Big B's house under fire?

Days after Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) supremo Raj Thackeray questioned actor Amitabh Bachchan's loyalty to Maharashtra, stirring up a Marathi vs north Indian debate, two youths – supposedly MNS workers – attacked the actor's residence early on Monday morning.

News agency PTI reports two men on a motorcycle threw glass bottles at Bachchan's Juhu residence 'Prateeksha' and were heard shouting abuses in the direction of 'Prateeksha' main gate.

"At around 1:30 am, some cameramen, who were posted outside the bungalow anticipating trouble, heard the abuses and also saw a bottle being thrown at the direction of bungalow," a media person was quoted as saying by the agency.

But Mumbai police denied the incident. "Apart from the private security guards posted there, we had also deployed our own men at the spot and no such incident has been observed there during the night," senior police inspector Deepak Katdare of the nearby Juhu police station, was quoted as saying.

Security was stepped up at Prateeksha on Sunday itself following Raj Thackeray's attack on the superstar for "preferring Uttar Pradesh over Maharashtra" for opening a girls' college.

Raj Thackeray's controversial remarks on north Indian population in the state led to clashes in parts of Maharashtra on Sunday. While the state government ordered a high-level probe into the violence, the Uttar Bharatiya Development Forum - an umbrella organisation of various groups of north Indians in the city - called for a protest closure.

Deputy Chief Minister R R Patil announced late on Sunday that the state's Director General of Police and Mumbai's Police Commissioner will probe the violence.

Samajwadi Party leader Amar Singh had lodged an FIR against Thackeray and others in south Mumbai's Azad Maidan police station regarding the incident of protest by MNS activists during his press conference on Saturday.

A couple of theatres staging Bhojpuri films outside the metropolis were attacked and five cars were damaged during Sunday's violence after which 15 MNS and five SP activists were arrested.

How it started:

In the last few days, Raj, the estranged nephew of Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray, has repeatedly ridiculed people from north India settled in Mumbai and also Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan, who is close to the Samajwadi Party, the leading opposition party in Uttar Pradesh.

Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party chief Mulayam Singh Yadav held a rally that was also addressed by other leaders of the United National Progressive Alliance (UNPA), including Telugu Desam Party chief N. Chandrababu Naidu, National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah and Samajwadi Party general secretary Amar Singh and his party's Maharashtra unit chief Abu Asim Azmi.

Yadav pointed out that all Indians have a right to live and work anywhere in the country. "The Samajwadi Party will give a fitting reply to anybody who dares to stop them."

Deputy Commissioner of Police Niket Kaushik told IANS that police had stepped up security measures following widespread rumours that MNS activists would attack north Indians arriving by trains at the Lokmanya Tilak Terminus near the Bandra-Kurla Complex.

Last week, on several fora, Raj Thackeray lashed out at the north Indians on different issues, including performing Chhath Puja, a festival especially popular in Bihar. He demanded that they must celebrate only Maharashtrian festivals.

Raj ridiculed Amitabh Bachchan's decision to promote Uttar Pradesh as its brand ambassador earlier. "Since he has lived and flourished in Maharashtra, why can't he promote this state?" he said.

He also questioned the move to construct a girls school in Uttar Pradesh named after Amitabh Bachchan's daughter-in-law and film star Aishwarya Rai, for which the foundation stone was laid last Sunday.

"Are there no girls in Maharashtra? Why can't they construct a school here?" he asked.

While the star has refrained from replying to him, his wife and actor Jaya Bachchan said: "For me, Shri Bal Thackeray is a like a father and (his son) Uddhav is like a son. I don't know any other Thackeray."

When reporters asked her about the school project, Jaya Bachchan said the Bachchans would gladly construct a school in Maharashtra too if Raj was willing to donate land.

Buzz18

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King Khan Back In Action

Shah Rukh Khan doesn’t like to be unemployed for long. So within days of saying that he has no work on hand, the man is back to doing work enough for two.

“I have just signed a film with Aditya Chopra because he’s making a film after a very long time. I also plan to produce a smaller film with Priyadarshan. There is Karan Johar’s film and then there is IPL. There are so many technicalities that I have to understand and all this is keeping me occupied,” he says, adding, “And yes, I will be back on TV soon and I am also planning an animation movie.”

And where does he get the energy to do so much? “I just need four hours of sleep and I am ready to go. I have always been like this and even my kids are like this. They keep on playing till they fall flat on the bed. For instance, Aryan played a match yesterday and won a silver prize. He waited for me to come back home. I reached after midnight, he relayed the whole story, pressed my feet and he was up the next day at 7 to play basketball!”

And this bundle of energy has now decided to advocate responsible drinking. And if you ask him, drinking is as bad as smoking! “To be very honest, drinking is not good and neither is smoking. Unfortunately, I smoke. And when Mr Ramadoss says that what I am doing is wrong, I agree with him. I don’t want my kids to drink and smoke. I don’t even promote smoking through my films. Even in Don , I am not actually smoking. Every time I am about to light a cigarette, I remind myself that it will kill me. This Don is not scared of anything else but he is scared of smoking his lungs out. But I don’t appreciate someone is trying to curb my creativity by banning smoking,” he says.

And talking about people following his onscreen example, he says, “Do you really think people smoke because I smoke? And if people have to emulate me, why don’t they emulate the hard work I do and what I have become because of that? I feel that too much is being made of too little in this case. There are lots of other actors who smoke. There were other people who were smoking while watching the match that day.”

We then ask him another smokin’ question: Are he and Ajay Devgan still at loggerheads? “Ajay is a very quiet guy. He is a very nice person and the last thing he needs is a question like this, which he is always being asked. I know Kajol very well. We both thought that this question will die a natural death but it did not. Honestly, I and Ajay don’t know each other well enough that we should dislike each other. But we know each other well enough to like and respect each other. Main Geeta pe haath rakhke kasam khata hoon that I have no problems with Ajay Devgan!” he says with a smile.

Mandvi Sharma, TNN

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Akki - coming home to martial arts

CHANDNI CHOWK TO CHINA, being directed by Nikhil Advani for producer Rohan Sippy, is currently being shot in old Delhi's hustling and bustling Chandni Chowk area.

The film will see Akshay 'Khiladi' Kumar returning back to his first love, martial arts, and is nostalgic for the lead actor as he originally hails from the Gali Parathewali area of Chandni Chowk and his grandmother still lives there.

We bring you a few glimpses of Akshay's look in CHANDNI CHOWK TO CHINA!

Abid, Bollywood Trade News Network

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Is Karisma following Kajol's footsteps ?

Kajol kept denying her comeback until Fanaa was released! The actor kept 'mum' about her comeback film, as she claimed to enjoy motherhood more than anything else in the world. And while she was all 'mum', she smartly endorsed consumer brands like Tata Indicom, Marie biscuits, Whirlpool, Asmi jewellery to name a few. Then it was time for Fanaa that made great news as the film hailed the comeback of Kajol and also had Aamir and the Mukerji girl as the lead pair. This, for the first time ever.
Now, Karisma seems to be executing the same 'game plan'. The actress after shooting for Khaitan fans and ICI Dulux was spotted shooting for an ad campaign for 'Utsav' jewellery in a suburban Mumbai five star hotel.

We hear that Karisma, who is in perfect shape, has been doing ads just to ensure that she is not away from the public eye for too long as that might make her a little apprehensive to get back to the big screen.

Karisma's fans are eagerly awaiting her return to films, more so after seeing her sizzle in Om Shaanti Om . However the actress still seems to be in two minds about her comeback.

When we recently bumped into the actor at an award function we couldn't help but probe her on the issue. A humble Karisma replied, "I am doing ads and spending quality time with my daughter Samaira as of now. I have never denied that I would make a comeback. It's just that I am waiting for the right script. I can't accept anything that comes my way after having worked in the industry for so long."

Kajol's comeback venture Fanaa wasn't as a huge a hit as it was expected to be and Madhuri's comeback film Aaja Nachle failed to impress. Is that why Karisma is being extra picky, and silently waiting her turn?

Renuka Vyavahare, Indiatimes Movies

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Priyanka in Madonna and Shakira's company

Ex Ms World Priyanka Chopra has taken one step further to her stardom. The beauty queen turned actress will be joining the elite list of international celebrity figures like Madonna, Shakira and Marilyn Monroe with her recent appointment as the brand ambassador of hair care brand Sunsilk.

Sunsilk hopes to inspire women around the world to take a step forward and live life to the fullest with the debut of their massive "Life Can't Wait" Campaign. The Sunsilk "Life Can't Wait" Campaign features three of the world's most iconographic figures - Madonna, Shakira, and Marilyn Monroe internationally, and now Priyanka Chopra in India - all of whom symbolize the power of expression and making life happen. The campaign aims to inspire women from all over the globe to live their own lives to the fullest.

Like some of her Bollywood contemporaries, Sushmita Sen, Aishwarya Rai, Lara Dutta and other Bollywood divas who have made India proud globally, Priyanka Chopra has joined the international bandwagon. She will symbolize a woman who came from a small town and has made it big today. Priyanka Chopra believes in the fact and comments, "I think 'Life Can't Wait' is very true for today. It's about now. The idea of lazy Sundays no more exists. Nobody has that luxury. You have to work hard to be the best," she says.

Gautam Buragohain, Indiatimes Movies

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Karan & Ekta to dance together at Balaji awards tonight

The indelible bonding between Karan Johar and Ekta Kapoor just got stronger. Not only will Karan receive a special lifetime achievement award at Ekta's much-vaunted Balaji Awards tonight, he'll also be doing a jig on stage with the hostess.

Says a source from Balaji, "It's meant to be the surprise of the evening. But Karan and Ekta are actually going to dance together. Though Ekta had earlier refused to do so coz even if it is her own awards function, she didn't want to end up looking ridiculous. But Karan convinced her to get jiggy on this occasion."

The song to which the super-duo would be seen dancing is 'Rock n Roll Soniye' from Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna. After this Ekta and Karan would be doing an impromptu Q & A session on stage. Laughs Karan, "I can never say no to Ekta about anything. In fact, I did a stint of acting for her last week."

Subhash K. Jha, Bollywood Hungama

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'Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi'

The wait is over. Eight years after he last directed a film, Aditya Chopra is back helming a Yash Raj Films production. Even as his directorial debut DILWALE DULHANIA LE JAYENGE continues its record breaking run in its 13th year, Aditya is ready to direct his third film.

After directing his second film, MOHABBATEIN, back in 2000, Aditya had taken a conscious break from direction to set up and develop India's first studio model making Yash Raj Films a name to reckon with. In the years that followed, YRF, under the keen eye of Aditya, produced such blockbusters as DHOOM, DHOOM 2, HUM TUM, BUNTY AUR BABLI, SALAAM NAMASTE, FANAA and CHAK DE INDIA. While Aditya was the creative producer in all these films, he also kept up with his creative juices by writing his father Yash Chopra's directorial venture VEER-ZAARA in 2004, as well as the stories of other films.

Aditya's third directorial venture will be titled RAB NE BANA DI JODI and will star the formidable Shah Rukh Khan... indeed the jodi of Adi and SRK will once again be a treat for film audiences the world over.

Aditya will introduce a new girl opposite King Khan in RAB NE BANA DI JODI. The hunt for a new girl is currently in progress.

The film, to be produced by Yash Chopra, will be written and directed by Aditya Chopra. Shooting for the film will commence in May and RAB NE BANA DI JODI will release by the end of 2008.

Taran Adarsh, Bollywood Hungama

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