Rani and Aditya Chopra had a huge fight

According to inside sources, Aditya Chopra and Rani Mukherji had a fight amongst themselves. As a result of which, they both had even stopped communicating with each other.

Sources revealed, "Rani was upset by the treatment her once special banner, Yash Raj films had been meting out to her post the flopping of her Thoda Pyar Thoda Magic. She was getting the feelers about her no longer being the blue eyed girl of the prestigious banner.

There was no big project announced keeping her in mind and she only had just one film with them that too being directed by a debutant director. But she had kept quiet over this matter despite it all being extremely frustrating for her.

Just later then, Aditya Chopra confronted her over a matter that came in the press.

It is a well known fact that Adi likes to maintain huge secrecy concerning his projects. He was therefore very miffed with Rani that she spoke some off the record things about her film with Yash Raj to her media friends.

What she spoke to them came out in the press and Adi didn't like it one bit. But as he confronted her over this all her boiled up anger came out and she questioned him over his changed attitude towards her post the flopping of TPTM.

Well this further led to a huge argument between the two and they both parted ways refusing to talk to one another. But just a week later Adi took the first step in reconciling their spoiled relation and asked for a meeting with her. Rani agreed and after this meeting they were back to being friends again!"

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Madhuri Dixit on films and life

Ladies and gentlemen, we present Madhuri Dixit live from New York.

She’s here in the Big Apple for the Big B’s world tour. But BT managed to get Big Bytes from the Big Diva before she went on stage. She laughs radiantly, expressing excitement at grabbing centrestage after long, “I just love being on stage, I am a trained classical dancer, and dance comes naturally to me. I try to do riyaaz regularly, but I have two small kids. Even they dance with me.” She adds, “I was also watching Aishwarya perform after long. I must say, Ash has matured so much as a dancer since we last danced together for Devdas. She’s getting better and better.”

And sharing the stage with Mr Bachchan? As good as sharing screen-space? The two superstars haven’t worked together since the Bade Miya Chotte Miya song cameo. “We have tried to work together for years, it hasn’t been very successful. This tour was the closest it could get,” she states sadly.

While we gab on, I grab a glimpse of Sriram Nene, Madhuri’s better half, sitting at close distance, like a proud, protective and unperturbed partner. So far-flung from filmdom, yet, living a blissful married life with one of India’s most beautiful movie stars. With her American born kids, Bollywood is a fairly alien concept. “My kids had come to see our show in LA, with my whole family in tow.

They love to watch me dance. My younger one loves it more, but my older kept blushing, and was slightly shy on seeing me all dressed up backstage. My kids are young, and our Hindi films are slightly long, they don’t have so much of an attention span,” she says, with that tinkle of motherly pride. They say that showbiz, glamour and the arc lights are addictive. You can’t live with it, and you can’t live without it. “I love my art. I don’t enjoy anything else that goes with it. Or the limelight, as you would call it. I love my craft, my dancing. I will never lose that,” says MD, without batting those long lovely lashes.

With the industry’s biggest banners pursuing her for the next big ‘re-comeback’, she can lose herself to temptation. She’s human. And a superstar, too. “I do get tempted. But my priorities are in place. I have to make sure what I do is the best,” she firmly replies. Basking in the freedom of an American life is a privilege; still this is home away from home. Someday Madhuri Dixit would want to go back to her old-world, her good ‘ol Mumbai, and the new-age Bollywood. She disagrees, and denies in the same breath, “When I was growing I led a normal life, even after I became an actress, my family life didn’t change much. Here in America, too, I lead a normal life. I walk around, shop, and do groceries, like anybody else. I love and enjoy the anonymity.”

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Mallika builds a 1-BHK mud house in Kerala

While Mallika Sherawat shoots in Kerala for Naagin The Snake Woman, she has also invested in a cottage near Kovalam beach in Kerala. G Shankar, the chief of Habitat Technology Group, an NGO is working in close collaboration with the sexy actress on her hut based on sustainable architecture/technology. The structure is half-way complete.

Says a source, "When Mallika was shooting in Kerala, she heard about the Habitat Technology Group and asked their CEO to design a hut/cottage for her near Kovalam beach. It's 600 square feet in size, is made of mud, bamboo, lime and jaggery (a type of masala mortar) and follows traditional and vernacular idioms of Kerala. These huts cost anywhere between Rs 3 to 6 lakh."

Mallika's choice is a one-bedroom hut with a hall, bathroom and kitchen. According to the source, "Mallika is expected to arrive in the next few days and give the final approval to complete her home. The hut is on a hill and one has to reach the place on foot as it doesn't have a motorable road."

The source adds, "Mallika has always been a believer of sustainable architecture/technology. The objective of sustainable design is to use resources in ways that won't compromise the needs of future generations. The principles of sustainability work is to optimise site potential, minimise non-renewable energy consumption, use environmentally-preferable products, protect and conserve water, enhance indoor environmental quality and optimise operational and maintenance practices."

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Priyanka’s free stalker behind bars

Finally, Priyanka Chopra has heaved a huge sigh of relief with her tormentor of the last few months, Prakash Jaju, behind bars. Jaju’s bombarded the actress with lewd SMSes, which drove Priyanka up the wall. She was forced to change her cellphone number constantly.

But even that didn’t deter Jaju. Says her friend, “The moment she changed her number, Jaju got hold of the new one and messaged her instantly. He would even taunt her about trying to get rid of him by changing the number. And the messages were filthy.”

Even a monetary settlement some time ago failed to end Jaju’s compulsive obsession with Priyanka. In fact, Jaju continued to harass not only Priyanka, but also her father. He would deliberately see to it that court cases on Dr Ashok Chopra were filed from towns outside Mumbai, so that he was forced to travel unnecessarily even though he is ill. That’s what really hurt Priyanka. “He can harass me. Why does he trouble my ill father?” she would say, often breaking down before her close friends.

Jaju who has worked with several other people in the industry became Priyanka’s secretary when she came into the film industry in 2002. Initially, Jaju did get Priyanka a few plum assignments but after the release of her first two films, The Hero and Andaaz, Jaju’s interference in her personal life began to hassle Priyanka. Jaju grew so possessive that he tried to keep tabs on all her friends and social activities. Understandably, Priyanka sacked him, a snub that Jaju’s ego couldn’t take. Then began his revenge on Priyanka and her father Dr Chopra who had once welcomed Jaju into their home.

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"I will kill Gauri Khan" - Vidya Balan

Vidya Balan made a shocking statement quite recently. She declared her love for Shah Rukh Khan and even went on to state that for him, she would be even willing to kill Gauri Khan. However, it is quite obvious that she said so in light humor as all this chit-chat happened on the 'Sajid Superstars' show! At Bollywood Buzz, we bring some exclusive tidbits on what to expect from the show

- On being asked about her crush, Vidya Balan didn't bat an eyelid as she only mentioned one name - Shah Rukh Khan! When warned by Sajid Khan that Gauri Khan could well be watching the show, she confessed that for getting the man of her dreams, she would even be willing to kill Gauri Khan!

- She did mention her disappointment though for missing out on being even nominated for Bhool Bhulaiyaa. Though she gave her heart, body and soul for the role of a woman possessed and saw some critical and commercial acclaim for the film, she was left perplexed when award functions ignored her completely. In fact one of her scenes from the film even made it to the best scenes selected by Sajid Khan.

- Her worst scene was an embarrassment for her though as a sequence from her tele-serial 'Hum Paanch', which was aired years back on TV. No wonder, she was red faced all through the duration as the scene played.

- There was some more fun in store as she was asked to choose her favorite between designers Manish Malhotra and Aki Narula. For the uninitiated, there is no love lost between Vidya and the two designers, hence the query holds on quite some relevance.

- She also mentioned about how uncomfortable she was about the thought of enacting a love making scene with Sanjay Dutt for Parineeta. In fact a few weeks back, even Sanjay Dutt had mentioned that it was quite strange to shoot for the scene since director Pradeep Sarkar insisted in dozens of retakes before the scene was finally canned!

- However, Vidya admits that Sanjay Dutt made it all comfortable for her and in the end she didn't have any hesitation to continue with the shoot. Just like the major part of the industry which loves Sanju baba, even Vidya couldn't help singing praises for her co-stars whom she truly believes has a heart of gold.

- Sajid however didn't have a heart to listen to what Vidya had to say, especially when she opened her mouth to sing a song. The moment she started singing 'Pal Pal' from Lage Raho Munnabhai, Sajid went off to sleep!

- Things perked up further though when other celebrities started placing their questions to her. One such question came from Ritiesh Deshmukh, her co-star in Heyy Babyy, who asked her to clarify the legend behind her being called 'Nagin Chachi' by quite a few members of the film fraternity. Keep guessing the reason before Vidya spills the beans in the show!

- While she was all fun in making her dancing entry into the show with the song 'Dholna' [Heyy Babyy], things turned a little serious as she was asked to reveal some bitter truths. In a round of controversial questions which followed, she was asked about her role in the Shahid-Kareena break-up. In addition, she was also grilled about her involvement with John Abraham.

She did come up with smart answers for two of the biggest controversies of her personal life ever since she entered celluloid. To know about what did she have to say about her 'affairs' with John and Shahid, tune in to Sajid's Superstars at 8:00 PM (note the revised timings), Saturday on the newly launched channel COLORS!

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Akshay Kumar Gets Inked

Seems like the craze in Bollywood at the moment is tattoos and star of the moment, Akshay Kumar is the latest actor to fall prey. While Akki was modeling at the Levi's 501 event we spotted a brand new tattoo on his back, with his son's name, Aarav with a halo around tha A.... Makes sense as Aarav translated means peaceful. So what do you think of it? Drop us a comment with your thoughts!

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Shilpa on the cover of People

"I can't go through it all over again" declares Shilpa Shetty, when she was asked if she would take part in this year's 'Big Boss'. For starters, Shilpa happens to be the 'Celebrity Big Brother' winner cum actress cum entrepreneur cum many other avatars bundled into one! She exclaims the above mentioned famous words in the latest issue of 'People', the niche magazine, of which she also happens to be the cover-girl. Not just this, she also has made many other confessions, which includes her relationship with her boyfriend- the London based entrepreneur Raj Kundra.

Not many know the fact that Raj was also a part of the Akshay-Karisma flick Mere Jeevan Saathi (as a producer), and the recently released Strangers that starred Jimmy Sheirgill with Sonali Kulkarni and Nandana Sen. The good news is that Raj is also a part of a film venture that Shilpa is producing! That doesn't mean that Shilpa will be saying adieu to heroine roles. Testimony of this is the fact that she is having her next venture The Man coming up with Sunny Deol. When asked about the difference between being an actress and a producer, she simply blushes in her trademark style to say that "You don't get as pampered as an actress".

Well, looking at Raj's deep and dedicatedly committed eyes, he truly looks like the 'Pampering Personified' types! If that's the case, where's the point to complain, Shilpa?

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B.O. update: 'Rock On!!' opens very well, rest fail to take-off

It was Black Magic [PHOONK] last Friday. It's Magic [the band in ROCK ON!!] this Friday. ROCK ON!! surprised everyone by fetching an excellent start at multiplexes all over. Morning shows at most places were 80% - 90%, while at some centres, it was cent per cent occupancy. Again, this has come as a big surprise since ROCK ON!! doesn't star any Khan or Kumar, isn't directed by a Bazmee or a Dhawan, isn't filmed in Australia or America… it doesn't even have a title that guarantees an opening. But all calculations went wrong this morning as the audiences embraced ROCK ON!! with open arms.

The tremendous appreciation as also the tremendous critical acclaim this film has garnered will ensure a long, successful run for the film. Given its strong opening and equally strong reports, a few distributors/exhibitors this writer spoke to were sure that the multiplexes would increase its shows [from 2/3/4 to 7/8] from Saturday itself.

C KKOMPANY had a dull start, opening to a 20% response. The reports range from average to dull… CHAMKU had a poor start, with the opening being in the range of 7%-10% at some screens. Reports are poor… As for MUKHBIIR, no prizes for guessing the opening numbers!

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Cast of 'Rock On!!!' on the Cover of Rolling Stone

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Preity Zinta and Salman Khan in 'Heroes' Trailer

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Madhavan shoots in an aircraft for Rajkumar Hirani's 3 Idiots

The first shooting schedule of Vinod Chopra Films next venture 3 Idiots commenced on 26th August 2008 in Mumbai. The first scene was shot in an aircraft with R. Madhavan. The next schedule which is 20-day long will be held at Ladakh wherein lead pair Aamir Khan and Kareena Kapoor will participate.

3 Idiots is the next edition from the maverick director of hit Munnabhai series, Rajkumar Hirani, and toplines Aamir Khan and Kareena Kapoor, for the first time together. The film also features R. Madhavan, Sharman Joshi and Boman Irani in pivotal roles.


Director Rajkumar Hirani who is quite thrilled with the project says, "We are literally off to a flying start. It was amazing to shoot inside a real aircraft. We are really excited and raring to go."

3 Idiots is being produced by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, and written by Rajkumar Hirani and Abhijat Joshi. The lyrics are by Swanand Kirkire and music is being composed by Shantanu Moitra.

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Saifeena to perform together again

Saifeena have been all over the place, be it under the guise of shooting, events, award ceremonies or just stage shows. Recently, they created a riot with their ensemble performance on August 21 at Sharjah for 'Jashan 2008'.

The overwhelming response to Saif and Kareena's show has inspired organizers, the Morani Brothers, to organize a series of shows across Europe. Mohammed Morani said, "The Sharjah show was extremely successful. We are now organizing a series of shows across Europe and the Middle East. Saif and Kareena have a huge fan following in these places. People throng to the stadium to watch them especially after the success of Race and Jab We Met. Also, Saif and Kareena make a wonderful pair. They are both good looking and exude power that makes the audience go 'wow'. Saif and Kareena gave solo performances and the results are evident with the success of 'Jashan 2008', so we can imagine the response when the duo performs together."

Kareena said, "The show had a crowd of 20,000 people and it was just amazing. Saif is in talks with the Morani Brothers for the shows across Europe and the Middle East." Minissha Lamba, who was the only star to be a part of the Sharjah show said, "I am looking forward to be on stage for the shows to be held across Europe and the Middle East."

Well, we always knew that together they can create magic, didn't we?

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Akshay to seen in India's first collaborative advertisement

By now its common knowledge that superstar Akshay Kumar was recently signed as the brand ambassador for Levi's 501. He even walked the ramp for them with international models at an event earlier this week in Mumbai.

Now comes a piece of news stating that the Khiladi of Bollywood will be soon seen in India's first collaborative advertisement. The ad, for Levi's company, will be directed, scripted, and performed by the winners of a contest conducted by Levi Strauss India. The contest will be run on a special website where young contestants will be asked to write in their concepts for the ad. They can also upload videos and files of their previous work or narrate a story or incident to illustrate why they should be picked. Winners, chosen jointly by Akshay Kumar and Levi's, will begin working on the ad in November this year. These winners will perform various roles, such as writing the script, developing the music and background, directing the ad and acting in it alongside Akshay Kumar. Levi's India will be the producer and the ad will be released some time in December 2008.

Levi Strauss India director-marketing Shyam Sukhramani said, "We're giving youngsters an open platform to do an ad with Akshay. The ads announcing the contest will be aired on TV starting August 27. We will also promote it through the outdoor and Internet medium and through our 200 stores across the country."

Must say youngsters across the country would do anything to get up, close and personal with their favorite Bollywood idol.

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Breathing easy at O2, London

The Unforgettable Tour showed at the O2 Arena, London during the weekend and buzz is that it was the best-attended show for the Bachchan bunch.

The highlight of the UK leg was Shilpa Shetty, who grooved to current chartbusters including Race, Beedi, Its Rocking and Mauja Hi Mauja. London couldn't get enough of their favourite star.

Amitabh, Aishwarya and Abhishek Bachchan, Preity Zinta, Riteish Deshmukh, Vishal, Shekhar and Shilpa Shetty performed and after each act there was a unanimous 'Encore'.

About the show, Shilpa Shetty says, "I have been at O2 Arena as part of the audience before but dancing on stage in front of 18,000 screaming fans gave me a different high. The audience response was phenomenal.

They gave a standing ovation to Mr Bachchan after his performance. It was truly an Unforgettable experience."

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Sallu's finale snub

All's not well between Salman Khan and Lara Dutta. Sources reveal that the two shared icy cold vibes on the sets of 10 Ka Dum during the grand finale shoot.

Last week, Salman shot for the final episode of the first season along with guests like Rani Mukerji, Anu Malik, Rakhi Sawant, Shakeel, and Lara Dutta.

While Salman mingled with Rakhi and Rani and even entertained them with his one-liners, he didn't share similar vibes with Lara. Eyewitnesses present on the set reveal that it was obvious there was some tension between the two.

A source reveals, "Rani and Lara came together as guests on the show. They were very chirpy with each other but as soon as they walked on the stage to face Salman, the equation changed."

Even though Salman asked them both a common question, he was more interactive with Rani than Lara. "It was evident that Salman was more comfortable talking to Rani than Lara. Even his jokes and his one-liners were directed towards her. Lara looked like she was out of place."

Sources reveal that problem between Salman and Lara started when Kareena replaced her in Sohail's home production Main Aur Mrs Khanna. "Salman and Lara got along really well in Partner. But after that they really haven't interacted much. Lara was in the running for the lead role of Main Aur Mrs Khanna but she wasn't too happy with the way she was dropped from the film. That remained a sore point between the two. Moreover, Lara is also part of SRK's Billoo Barber, and as Sallu detests anyone who has anything to do with SRK as of now could also be a reason."

Things were different prior to this incident. "Sallu and Lara were hanging out a lot during the Partner period. In fact, it was Salman who recommended Lara to David Dhawan for the film. There was even buzz that the two were more than just friends."

Onlookers add that even after the episode's shoot, Salman and Rani were seen bonding together while Lara maintained her distance.

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Priyanka to change skin 12 times!

She is all set to compete with Kamal Haasan who played ten different characters in Dashavataram . But our Priyanka Chopra has gone ahead of Haasan and will be seen donning 12 different characters in Ashutosh Gowarikar’s forthcoming film What’s Your Raashi .

Reportedly, his film is based on a novel called Kimball Ravenswood by Madhu Rye. It can be recalled that the famous tele-serial Mr Yogi was loosely based on the same novel. Apparently, in the serial the main protagonist Mr Yogi meets 12 different girls for marriage.

But Ashutosh’s romantic comedy has a twist to it. Harman, the male lead, meets these 12 different girls and all these characters are played by Priyanka Chopra. Now the look of all her characters is the suspense.

Actresses have played double roles in films, but with this film, Priyanka will be the first actress to play more than a double role. Priyanka has always maintained that experimenting leaves her on a high and What’s Your Raashi seems ‘the film’ for her.

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Salman Khan at the launch of 'Beyond Luxury' store

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"I have tried to capture the magic of Shah Rukh Khan" - Mushtaq Shiekh

Having started his career as a journalist, Mushtaq Shiekh has indeed come a long way. From writing exclusive columns in film magazines to writing scripts for popular K-serials to writing the story of one of the country's biggest blockbusters Om Shanti Om, Mushtaq has indeed done it all. However, Mushtaq is still best known as the author of Shah Rukh Khan's biography- 'Still Reading Khan'. His proximity with the country's biggest superstar is something that's known to one and all. He even wrote the coffee-table book on 'The Making of Asoka' and 'The Making of Om Shanti Om'. Now after having already penned a book on the life of SRK, Mushtaq is ready to release yet another book on the superstar and this time it's called 'Shah Rukh Can'. In an exclusive chat with Bollywood Hungama, this talented writer speaks about what readers can expect from his new book, his proximity with SRK and his future plans.

Is it true that you have written yet another book on SRK called 'Shah Rukh Can'?
Yes, the book will be released in a month's time. The exact date has yet not been finalized.

You had earlier penned his biography 'Still Reading Khan', what is different this time around?
'Shah Rukh Can' is the paperback version of 'Still Reading Khan'. This book is an updated version of my coffee table book. Shah Rukh is a non-stop machine, he does hundred things each day, to keep up, it's next to impossible but I am trying to do so in the form of my book. The other aspect was that many people had complained to me that reading my earlier biography in the form of a 4 kg coffee table book took a toll on their backbone so I decided to make things easy for many. So this book will be easy on your eyes, your back bone and your wallet (laughs). So in a nutshell, 'Shah Rukh Can' is all things good condensed into one compact book. I have tried to capture the magic of Shah Rukh Khan between the covers of my book. And I sincerely hope and pray to Allah that I have succeeded, because dealing with someone else's life story and telling it as honestly as possible is a huge task.

What made you come up with this idea?
Lots of my fans have been writing in to say that my coffee table book is too cumbersome to handle. In fact, I have complaints from women who say they could not even take my book to bed with them. (Laughs) So this idea came to me. There was a lot to add. A year has passed since I released the coffee table. It's already done exceptionally well and now I thought that I should push the envelope and make the book available to a larger chunk of people.

You are known to be very close to Shah Rukh Khan...How did you first get to know him?
I met Shah Rukh more than a decade ago when I was a journalist. I met him up for an interview and the rest is publishing history as they say.

How much has SRK cooperated during the making of this book?
The book would have been impossible without his cooperation. The only care I took was to curb my temptation and not ask too many questions and irritate him. The advantage you have when you know someone well is that you don't have to re-check many issues. You already know most things. What I had to be careful about is that I didn't take advantage of my friendship with the man. And that's always a tough one. It becomes unfair to harrow someone too much and more so if it's a man who's every second has been pre-booked for the next five years.

Is there a grand function for the release?
I have made a habit of releasing my book as if it's a film premiere. Every launch party seems to take a toll on me. They seem to tire me more than the whole process of writing and putting together a book. So this time I am going the more conventional route of having a book reading session, the details of which are not really planned as of now…

Heard this time over, you are targeting the cyber space in a big way?
Yes, I am because I have always realized the potential of the net and the way the world reaches out to you here on cyber space. The same process takes time in the brick and mortar land. But it happens in an instant on the web. My publisher, OM Books International, is going hammer and tongs on the net simply because the whole book loving clan seems to be surfing the net these days. The day my publisher www.om-books.com opened pre-orders on their site there has already been a thunderous response. Be it Russia, Germany, Australia, Hong Kong or Japan, I am getting pre-orders from everywhere. As an author I don't think I can ask for more. Can I?

How much is it priced at and who is it targeted at?
As I said earlier, this time I am keeping it very affordable and easy on your wallet. It's a modest 395 rupees. Shah Rukh's life has to be devoured by anyone who wants to make a difference. Who does not want to make it big? Who does not want to question destiny and demand more from it? We all do. Shah Rukh is one such exemplary example and anybody who aspires to get more from life should read this book. So my target audience is anyone who wants to be inspired.

And finally the last question…You also co-wrote the story /screenplay of OSO, what else are you working on now with regards to films?
I am currently working on Priyadarshan's next film Billo Barber starring Irrfan Khan and Shah Rukh and I am having the blast of a life time. I am today working with people who I have always looked upto and admired. Could not ask for more from life...actually hold that thought; let's hope for the super success of Om Shanti Om for every film I write (laughs).

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Priyanka Chopra and Abhishek Bachchan in Latest 'Drona' Trailers

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Aamir Khan in Tata Sky Commercial

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Big B sweeps 20,000 spectators off their feet in London at The Unforgettable Tour

This has never happened before. On Saturday night history was made at the posh 02 Arena in London. 20,000 spectators got to their feet for more than half an hour to watch Big B perform live on stage.

Speaking from London the Big B says, "What you've heard is absolutely right. This is unprecedented, and overwhelming. I've never gone through this experience before. Throughout my performance at the 02 Arena, the audience didn't sit at all. All 20,000 of them stood on their feet while I performed. It was a deeply moving and humbling experience. I've never been in a performance like this ever. And perhaps the audience too had never felt like this before. The entire venue was sold out. We all got standing ovations. The audience just freaked out."


The Big B's enthusiasm is understandable. At a time when the entertainment industry was singing dirges for Bollywood world tours 'Unforgettable' concerts have been an overwhelming success for the Bachchans. Now that 'The Unforgettable Tour' is almost over, it can be told. It was the Big B who held the concerts together.

In every city that the Bachchans performed in the US, West Indies and England, AB by far is the main attraction with Abhishek and Aishwarya forming the sidelights. Even Shilpa Shetty who joined the Bachchans in London admits as much. "The Big B is such a rock star. Performing with him was an eye-opener."

Adds Preity Zinta, "Let's admit it, the crowds came in such huge numbers mainly to see the Big B. We were the side attractions. The way the audiences everywhere reacted to him had to be seen to be believed."

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"Is India ready for a Brokeback Mountain?" - Karan Johar

The trailers are out for Karan Johar's new production Dostana (directed by Tarun Mansukhani, starring Abhishek Bachchan, John Abraham, Priyanka Chopra and releasing in November 2008). The teaser suggests that most of the romance and frolic in the sunshine of Florida takes place between the two male leads, Abhishek Bachchan and John Abraham.

Is Dostana a gay romance?
No, John and Abhishek play two straight guys who pretend to be gay. As the trailers say, it’s a tiny lie that they tell because of certain circumstances.

Is it an updated version of the 1980s buddy film with the same name?
It has absolutely nothing in common with that film (which my father made) except the name. Oh, and both films have two actors with a sexy girl between them.

So you would be surprised to hear that the original Dostana that starred Amitabh Bachchan and Shatrughan Sinha is also occasionally read as a film with gay subtext.
I wonder what my father would think of that. But you know in India we find it slightly embarrassing to watch male bonding. (Laughs)

You started a trend of self-referencing in Bollywood with Kal Ho Na Ho. And in these trailers you seem to be making fun of your older films.
Oh yes, Tarun and his team had a lot of fun making these trailers. In Bollywood we have a new romcom coming out every month. These trailers have you thinking, "Oh God, another film that says it's an eternal love story" and then you plummet straight into this mad plot.

In Kal Ho Na Ho, you had a gay subplot. In this film the fake gay relationship is the main thread of the story. Do you think you will ever make a film that is actually about a gay couple?
I learnt something from making Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna. I learnt that it's possible to make a Rs 70 crore film about infidelity with stars as big as Shah Rukh Khan. And people accepted it. So I will push the boundaries with each of my films. People judged me far too quickly. They decided that I would make only mushy films but I will break new ground every year. We have to leave behind the tone of the films we made in the 80s and the 90s. But is India ready for a big, serious film like Brokeback Mountain yet? I would say it won't go down too well yet. But we will open the doors for other filmmakers in the future.

Communities who have made major contributions to cinema have been oddly subject to terrible stereotyping on screen. Like Muslims and Anglo-Indians in Bollywood. Do you think the industry is homophobic?
I don't think people confident in their own skills would be homophobic. If you are educated and have been brought up in an urban milieu it's quite ridiculous if you are homophobic. It either means you are insecure or you have never read a book. Or that you are in denial of your own orientation. Homophobia speaks volumes about who you are. That's as far as the industry is concerned. As filmmakers I think we have a great responsibility to be sensitive to the feelings of all communities. We Asians are an emotionally volatile and dramatic lot. Tarun and his team have made a film that is fun but does not poke fun. It is not callous and does not hurt the dignity of gay people in any way. It may shock a small part of the population, but I think most people would enjoy it.

What do you feel about being a gay icon?
It's very flattering to be an icon to any community. I have been asked many times about my own orientation but I will never discuss my personal life. People can look at me or look down at me, I don't care. What I do and where I do it and who I do it with is nobody's business but mine.

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Akshay takes time off for wife and son

Akshay Kumar has just returned rejuvenated with his wife from Monte Carlo. And now it's his son's turn. The first week of his 2-week holiday was devoted to his wife Twinkle while son Aarav had stayed back. Now the second lap of the holiday is exclusively devoted to Akshay and his son Aarav. "It's full-on male-bonding time now. If all three of us had been on a holiday together, I'd have been divided between my son and wife. And both would've felt cheated. By dividing my holiday time into two I can give myself completely to both."

While Akshay is on holiday with his son, he can't use the phone. "At least not when Aarav is around," grins Akshay. Recently, when Akshay was on 'Dus Ka Dum' with Salman Khan, the TRPs shot up to unprecedented heights.

A lot has been written about Akshay leopard-spot t-shirt on 'Dus Ka Dum'. Akshay is unperturbed. "I'm not here to go by definitions and standards of fashion set by others. I've always worn what I'm comfortable in. Why should I change that just because more people are watching me now? And I saw nothing wrong with the leopard-spotted t-shirt. When Brad Pitt wears a similar t-shirt everyone goes ooh and aah. I don't want people's approval about my clothes but my performances. Let me wear what I like," Akshay protests.

The success of Singh Is Kinng has put an extra responsibility on Akshay's shoulder. "I never thought it would be so big. Now that it is such a success, I feel I've got more than I deserve."

His anchoring of the reality show Fear Factor on the new channel Colors has also been a huge success. If rumours are to be believed, Akshay is already negotiating for a second season of Fear Factor and that too at a much steeper fee than Fear Factor 1.

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Big clash on Christmas

Another news-break and as always, it's only on 'Bollywood Buzz'.

Last year, the Christmas week witnessed the release of WELCOME and TAARE ZAMEEN PAR. Both diametrically opposite films in terms of genre worked big time at the box-office. The films in question also cemented the status of the two stars associated with those films -- Akshay Kumar and Aamir Khan, respectively.

Now Akshay and Aamir are all set to clash all over again. And it's Christmas time yet again. Aamir's GHAJINI is already confirmed for this date and if sources are to be believed, Akshay's CHANDNI CHOWK TO CHINA is also eyeing the Christmas week.

"Yes, we're looking at the date. But right now we are more concerned about the right chain of theatres, since GHAJINI is also arriving on this date. Plus, RAB NE BANA DI JODI [releasing on December 12] would also be retaining many screens. We've asked Warner Bros. [partners in C.C.T.C.] to get back to us about it. Only after they are clear vis-à-vis the screens will we take a call," Nikhil Advani tells me.

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Sushmita follows Madonna

There’s more than adopted children that Madonna and Sushmita Sen have in common.

The Material Girl and our Miss Universe are both deeply into Kabbalah. For the uninitiated, Kabbalah is a discipline and school of thought that explores the mystical aspect of Judaism. Madonna, of course, has been a Kabbalah believer from ever since, but Sushmita has got into it recently.

“I was chasing a particular number, 47, which I thought was very auspicious and this led me to the study of Kabbalah,” explained Ms Sen. “So I went to the Kabbalah Centre in New York and picked up every single possible literature they had on the subject. Today I feel like I know it a bit.”

That was two-and-half years ago. Since then, the actress says Kabbalah has brought about fabulous changes in her life. “We are talking about anti-ageing and stuff. All of this is to age gracefully, not to fight it, not restrict yourself to other peoples’ definition of ageing or of growing old. Through Kabbalah, I found ways to stay young and yet, gracefully accept that every single line on your face is something you’ve earned. So as long as you enjoy and cherish them, you’re going to age gracefully and like who you are,” she said earnestly
On the work front, the actress is currently involved with Dulha Mil Gaya and the yet to be released Karma Confessions And Holi. “There’s also David Dhawan’s film, the working title of which is Do Not Disturb, in which I’m with Govinda,” she said.

Most importantly, there’s Jhansi Ki Rani Lakshmibai which Sushmita is producing, directing and acting in. Talking about this whole experience, she said, “It’s a tough call, because of the sheer size of the canvas of the film that I want to make. I’d much rather be doing three years of pre-production than three years of post-production. I have a very emotional tie with the film. Tons of work has gone into the scripting, presentation, etc. I want it to be a 2010 release and if everything goes well, Insha Allah it should be so,” she added.

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Dhoom Tana for Israeli gymnasts

Beijing: Farah Khan's Om Shanti Om track Dhoom Tana made an appearance at the Beijing Olympics!

The Israeli team participating in the rhythmic gymnastics brought B-Town music to the fore by performing their final routine to the beats of Dhoom Tana (music scored by Vishal-Shekhar) from OSO. The gymnasts included Katerina Pisetsky, Veronika Vitenberg, Rahel Vigdozchik, Maria Savenkov and Olena Dvornichenko.

Says a source, "People watching the day's events were taken by surprise when the Israeli team came to perform their final routine. When the five-member Israeli girls' team started performing the three-hoops and two-clubs routine to the Dhoom Tana track, everyone was shocked. The track was picturised on Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone in OSO (pictured above)."

The entire routine, lasting about three minutes, had the score running through with the tempo growing towards the end and culminating in a single formation by the Israeli girls, a performance that gave them sixth position overall in the team sport where Russia claimed gold with China and Belarus taking silver and bronze respectively.

Farah Khan says, "I don't know how the Israeli team came across the number and the reason for their choice, but I am very excited.

Two of my dancers saw it on TV and informed me about it. Apparently, Dhoom Tana is also popular in the USA.

Two American dancers performed to the song in the hugely popular American dance show, So You Think You Can Dance? and it's all over YouTube.

The video is very popular and has had over a million hits. I am happy that OSO music as gone to international levels and even the world is dancing to our tunes. Dhoom Tana has great Indian energy."

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Rani asks Sallu about SRK!

Guests on the finale show of 10 Ka Dum, shot on Thursday night, included B-Town stars Rani Mukerji and Lara Dutta besides comedian Shakeel, Kailash Kher and Anu Malik.

It is learnt that when a question, "What percentage of Indians think two actors can be good friends?" popped up, Rani took everyone by surprise when she asked Salman about his jhagda with Shah Rukh.

Says a source, "Salman told Rani that he was friends with SRK but not anymore. Rani then openly expressed her displeasure after which Salman gave a big lecture on friendship where he made several digs on SRK."

Adds the source, "After the shoot, Rani and Salman had an animated discussion."

The finale episode airs in September.

Rakhi apologises...

Rakhi Sawant was also part of the grand finale shoot of 10 Ka Dum. Apart from indulging in her usual gimmicks, she also apologised to Salman Khan. Earlier this year, Rakhi had walked out of the Nach Baliye 3 finale after losing to Aamir-Sanjeeda. Salman, who was the guest judge had followed Rakhi and asked her to return.

However, she was in no mood to listen and stormed off the sets. Says Rakhi, "I told him I was sorry. I realised that what I did was wrong. Not even in my dreams would I want to insult Salman. I am a huge fan."

She adds, "Salman spoke very highly of me. He remarked how his mom Helenji was an item girl and sister-in-law Malaika has also performed to hit songs."

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Priyanka Chopra in 'Vogue' this month

What's common to Shaheen, Jiah, Sapna, Alisha, Rani, Simmi, Kajal, Anu, Priya and Roma? Well, we all know that they sound to be the names of some of the most beautiful girls. But the shocking-but-true fact is that all these names have just one face: 'Priyanka Chopra'. These are the names that this pretty chic has portrayed in her illustriously illustrious Bollywood career.

And it is this illustrious girl who has illuminated the latest edition of the fashion bible, 'Vogue'. A lot of unspoken facts about this lass have been revealed in this issue. We bet that you just did not know the 'mouth-watering' fact that Priyanka has a thing for sweet and sour treats like jeera goli! Not just that, this super actress' career plans never included modelling and that she takes to the pen the way a fish takes to water!

You will be on the floors for sure when you get to know that her aunt used to call her 'Kaali' and it was actually her Mom who should be attributed to giving Bollywood its Gen-Next Superstar! The reason being that Priyanka's mother sent 'passport sized snaps' of Priyanka wearing a suit as an entry for the Miss India competition, something that was meant to be sent to Australia for a scholarship exam in an engineering college!

Lastly, Priyanka does give some real gyaan to one and all (and we salute this dame for this). She, very honestly confesses that 'People will reject 90 days of work in two hours. But it's changed me for the better. I'll never again walk out of a film I am watching. No matter how bad it is!"

These words have left us speechless. All that we can say is Touché Priyanka! God bless you!

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Aamir gets in touch with feminine side

IT'S the X and Y chromosomes at war within Aamir Khan. The actor plays a woman again, or at least half man and half woman. For a hilarious TV commercial for Tata Sky, Aamir plays both a Punjabi bride and bridegroom bickering over what satellite TV connection to install.

The commercial, that airs on Monday, shows the actor dressed one half in a pink salwar kameez complete with dupatta and the other half in a blue sherwani.

This Punjabi bride and bridegroom squabble on their suhaag raat over what satellite connection to install - the woman says she'll go back to her maaike in London if she doesn't get 'technological' Sky, while the groom forcefully insists that he will only use the 'barosemann' Tata. Of course, it all ends lovey dovey when the couple find out that they are quarrelling over the same product.

The star was so taken in by the idea that he agreed to produce it himself. Aamir Khan Productions has worked on the creative by Rediffusion and the ad has been directed by dialogue writer and Phir Hera Pheri director Neeraj Vora.

Aamir Khan, currently in the US, comments in the making of segment, "I had to change my body language from a woman to a man in a split second so the mind had to be alert and sharp." Indeed, it is this quick back and forth between the man and his wife that keeps the viewer in splits - Aamir does it so effortlessly, switching his voice from high-pitched to baritone in the blink of an eye. "It was bizarre because it's me as a man and a woman, just by turning around," he says.

Director Neeraj, whose association with Aamir dates back to his Rangeela and Mann days, told Sunday MiD DAY, "Aamir has the capacity to surprise. Working with him is like driving a Mercedes or BMW over any other car."

Neeraj remembers how Aamir painstakingly spent six-seven hours in a parlour to transform into a woman for a song in Baazi. "But he captures the attitude and essence in such a correct manner that it's never undignified. It doesn't look as if he's mocking women, just playing them."

Neeraj is curious to see how viewers respond to the man-woman. "We chose a Punjabi couple because they are usually outspoken, their excitement is wider and they are so colourful. I knew Aamir would play it best."

Since Aamir's look was key in the ad, make-up was done by the gifted Mickey Contractor, who fashioned one side of his lip with a curvy moustache and painted another a plum red. Costume designer Arjun Bhasin also got into the act, creating an outfit that was one half a sherwani, the other a salwar kameez down to the separate jootas, while hair stylist Adhuna Akhtar fashioned a wig that was both a crop and a long, decorated choti. "The wig was tricky," grins Aamir, who even wore a half-bra to get into the act.

Aamir is now signed on as the new face of the brand, confirmed Vikram Mehra, chief marketing officer of Tata Sky. "We were really holding our breath when we approached Aamir with the concept, but he bought it."

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Shilpa Shetty rehearses for her performance at the 'Unforgettable Tour'

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SRK and Sushmita Sen in Dulha Mil Gaya

Shah Rukh Khan and Sushmita Sen's chemistry set the screen on fire the last time they were paired opposite each other in Farah Khan's Main Hoon Na. That was a long time back, 2004 to be precise. Now the duo would once again be seen together in Viveck Vaswani's film Dulha Mil Gaya.

This film has been long in the making due to various reasons. However, Viveck had earlier announced right here that the film is now 90% complete. The makers are even eyeing a release sometime around January next year. The film, directed by Mudassar Aziz also stars Fardeen Khan in a prominent role. Dulha Mil Gaya, apart from a stellar cast, also has some beautiful scenes shot aboard a luxury liner and in the Carribean islands. So that's one more reason to check out this film when it opens across cinema halls early next year.

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Sallu cancels shoot at the 11th hour

On Wednesday the shooting of Salman Khan starrer Veer was cancelled at the 11th hour. Reason? The actor complained about a severe stomach ache and was throwing up. “That’s very unlike Salman,” says our man. “He was all set to begin his workout when he complained of stomach ache. He was immediately rushed to a doctor who confirmed that it was food poisoning.”

However, the star was in no mood to call off the shooting of Veer . The shooting of the film has been on for some time now and Salman didn’t want the schedule to go awry
because of him. “But his health just didn’t allow him enough strength. His brother Sohail took a call and decided to cancel the shooting”, disclosed our informer.

Salman was also scheduled to attend co-star cum friend Deepshikha’s birthday party. “He sent me a message saying that he was unwell and hence can’t make it for the party. He even said that the shooting of Veer was called off because of that,” confirms Deepshikha.

Here’s wishing the man a speedy recovery.

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When Bipasha kissed Deepika!

Leave aside talks of the alleged catfight between Bips and Deepika! Forget about the lame hugs they exchanged few days back ‘publicly’ to deny any sort of rift in a press conference... errr (on Ranbir’s suggestion)!

Everything’s passé... the latest incident that happened in front of us was much more interesting than any of the news we’ve been hearing about the two ladies since the past few days!

At the post release interview session of Bachna Ae Haseeno , the trio – Ranbir, Deepika and Bipasha were at absolute ease in each other’s company...so much was their comfort level that Deepika and Bipasha even ended kissing each other!

It all happened when Bipasha and Deepika got closer to hug each other to once again show the press the friendly bond that they share! However their friendship display got the photographers in a frenzy and in an attempt to capture the rare moment they ended up slightly pushing the ladies on each other leading to the kiss! Ranbir and director Siddharth Anand had the loudest laugh and so did the ladies! “Now that we’ve kissed we hope the press stops making us look like enemies,” said Deepika while Bips blushed and shook her head in affirmative!

Post the historic moment, Bipasha who sported a smart white shirt and blue denims openly spoke about her ‘smooch’ with Ranbir saying, “I threw out everybody except for Siddharth and my makeup person while that scene was being shot! It’s okay if you need to kiss your boyfriend onscreen but a stranger! It was extremely difficult!”


And was boyfriend John amused? “John is shooting for Kabir Khan’s film and he will be watching the film tomorrow with his cast and crew but he did send me a sweet message saying, “I am proud of you” since he got to know about the film’s success. His friends did fool around with him saying, “Bipasha will kick you too if you misbehave just like she did in the film. You should be scared of her!”

Moving on to Ranbir and Deepika, we tried to throw some really controversial questions at the couple too but they handled it with aplomb!
Talking about his smooch with Bipasha, Ranbir said with a smile, “I dropped my towel in Saawariya, kissed three girls in Bachna... I guess I am quite shameless on camera!”

Playing a supportive girlfriend Deepika added, “I am a secure person and I know this is his profession! Both of us are aware of the baggage that comes with being a star.” Deepika also took this opportunity to clear all the rumours doing the rounds about her rivalry with Sonam by saying, “Sonam is a sweet person but I have not got an opportunity to know her better.”

All in all it was a reunion sorts for the Bachna team where the three hotties – Ranbir, Bipasha and Deepika expressed their love for each other! “We have found friends for life due to this film,” concluded Ranbir hurriedly as he left soon after to board a flight for Ooty to shoot for Rajkumar Santoshi’s Ajab Prem Ki Gajab Kahani!

We had quite a gajab interaction with the trio we must say!

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Akshay gets 'Unbuttoned' in style for Levi's

There is simply no stopping the 'Khiladi' or should we say 'Kinng of Bollywood'- Akshay Kumar. After delivering one of the biggest hits of his career Singh is Kinng, Akki is surely on cloud nine. And if you thought that its time for Akshay to sit back and relax, you couldn't be further from the truth. Yesterday we had informed you of Akshay being signed on as the brand ambassador of popular denim brand Levi's and today we bring you some exclusive sizzling hot pics from the promotional campaign that Akki shot for.


Akshay Kumar is known to have a certain comfort level with the fairer sex and even here he is seen setting the screen on fire with US supermodel Sara. The actor shot for the commercial in USA recently along with some foreign models. Akki will be launching the 501 Jeans of Levi's and the campaign is based on the theme of 'Live Unbuttoned'. Hence, it's no wonder that the beautiful American model is seen unbuttoning Akki's jeans. As for Akki, he seems to be having a lot of fun in showing his chiseled torso while getting 'unbuttoned' by a super hot babe. What else can we say except that Some Guys have all the fun!!!

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The Press Conference of The Unforgettable Tour at St. James Park Hotel in London

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"Performing live is far more fulfilling experience than in front of camera" - Big B

"Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen. Firstly, our apologies for being late. We've just got off the plane from New York, baggage, getting dressed and trying to cope with the jet lag has been taking its toll. That's why I'm wearing dark glasses. I hope that you'll understand. It's been several years since I've been on a concert of this nature and I'm truly enjoying the experience. It's not my age to be on stage anymore but I'm being provoked by the youngsters and the younger generation. The fact that this is going to give me another opportunity to meet the fans and to be with the audiences has got me on board. We've had a wonderful trip so far and as we approach our last leg, we do look forward to giving it that little bit extra in the last miles, as we all say. Thank you for your support. Media, you've been wonderful with us throughout this tour and we hope you'll continue doing that. We truly appreciate the contribution of Wizcraft for putting up a show which has surpassed some of the previous efforts that have been done by us. Once again, Thank you so much for being here everyone". With this speech, everyone sitting in the Press Conference put their hands together for one man who has brought and is bringing the Indian Film Industry and it's lovers across the globe together with each passing day - The indispensable and the undisputed, Mr Amitabh Bachchan.

Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take but by the moments that take our breath away. The Unforgettable Tour's London Press Conference was just that apt moment for those who love and cherish Indian Cinema. So, Bollywood Hungama's Devansh Patel brings you the exclusive chit-chat with the Unforgettable Stars from London's St James Park Hotel where the entire gang interacted with the U.K media, strangely, in a very fun loving and a humorous mood after a long one hour wait. Well, let me tell you, it was worth the wait!

Being a live show, how did you physically train yourself to cope up with the stress levels?
Amitabh Bachchan - Oh dear. Thank you for reminding that I need physical training (everyone laughs). I think that we all have a routine every morning or evening or whenever we work in front of the camera. When the show was initiated, I think that we needed to get a little more energy because there is a lot of singing and dancing. Being on stage live is a totally different experience from being in front of the camera where you have the benefit of re-takes. But yes, we've been doing our regular gyms and rehearsals for over three months and hopefully it's working well.

Q. This goes out to everyone on the panel. Out of all the performances, except your own, whose performance did you enjoy the most?
Amitabh Bachchan - Vishal and Shekhar (everyone laughs).
Preity Zinta - We all liked each others performances but above all, Mr Bachchan's dialogues. That was my favourite part from the Tour.
Riteish Deshmukh - I agree with Preity. I think when Amitji recites his lines, it's extremely emotional and gets difficult to perform after that.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan - The whole show is awesome. We've genuinely enjoyed all the performances. But Pa's dialogues are just totally in the movement. Every entertainer works and performs for the audience. So it's the audience's response which is the most memorable at every venue. They've just been exceptional.
Abhishek Bachchan - Having Dad on the Tour is a great honour for all of us present on the dais right now. Needless to say, he is a star attraction. Whenever he is on stage, everybody backstage just stops everything and focuses on his performance. Coupled with that, I'd like to believe that the show is very interactive and the way the audiences have performed has been truly unforgettable.
Amitabh Bachchan - For me it's a little bit depressing backstage when I watch these youngsters move (other actors laugh) because I can't move like that now. I feel depressed and I hope that some day I'll be able to do what they do on stage.
Abhishek Bachchan - Yes...so he comes out on the stage and knocks us straight out (other actors laugh).
Vishal Dadlani - Yeah...and then comes out on the stage and says 'Aaj Khush Toh Bahut Hue Honge Tum, Haiii?' (Amitabh Bachchan laughs)

How strenuous has the schedule been for you so far?
Preity Zinta - It's been hectic because we've been travelling the world over but it's been fun. I think the most hectic has been last nights travel. None of us has slept on the plane. But we're here in London and it's nice to see such a big gathering. There is a lot of excitement and fun associated with this Tour. So you don't feel the stress that much.

How much of the show is really rehearsed and is there something somewhere, some kind of a surprise for the London show?
Wiz Viraf Sarkari - The show is absolutely rehearsed.
Preity Zinta - Not when Abhishek is there (laughs).
Wiz Viraf Sarkari - We've been rehearsing before we kick started the show for about a month in Mumbai. Every last performance happens to be a rehearsal for the next performance. I think there are some special moments in the show especially when the stars are jamming into each others acts.

How is the London show going to be different from the other shows you've done so far in the Unforgettable Tour?
Amitabh Bachchan - Oh! (After a pause) We have Shilpa Shetty in this one (everyone laughs).
Preity Zinta - When we had this show in San Francisco, my brother came for the show. I asked him how he found the show, to which he said that it is the best show he has ever seen because everything he knew about Indian Films was a part of this show. He could really identify with it. I think that's why the show is different and hope that you come and see and....
Abhishek Bachchan - (completes Preity's answer)....have the same opinion.
Preity Zinta - Sorry I am a bit slow (laughs)

The Tour must have been a special one for you Mr Bachchan as you must have spent some quality time together with your family?
Amitabh Bachchan - All of us are just one big family. It's not just the three of us. It is great fun being together. We often don't get time in Mumbai even though we are in the same city working on different films in different studios near by, live near each other. We do not get time to even see each other. That goes for the members of my immediate family as well. We all live under the same roof but many a times, days go by and we don't see each other because of our shooting schedules. But this has been a wonderful experience. We travel together, move together, perform together, laugh together, pull each others leg after the show is over. I hope that we can spend many more days like this.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan - Riteish said something really sweet yesterday. He turned around and said that as soon as we go back, we all are just going to keep coming for breakfast and lunch and dinner as often as we can. We must meet up if we could because it's the Unforgettable Team should continue as we go back. We are beginning to feel it now. The time we've spent together has been so wonderful and we are all feeling the same way as Riteish.

Is the brand Bachchan for world domination?
Amitabh Bachchan - (After a pause) No! (everyone laughs)

What sort of happiness do you get by doing a live performance as suppose to the one in front of the camera?
Amitabh Bachchan - Good question. I think that when you're on stage and perform live, it is far more fulfilling experience than when you're performing in front of the camera not knowing what kind of reaction you'll get. Because here the reaction is immediate, because visually you can see what it's doing to you, what you're doing to the audience. I think it's a lot more satisfying which is why when Aishwarya said that it's the audiences performance which is keeping us going and on stage. When we hear the screams and the roars and the applause, that provokes us and gives us that extra energy to perform better. I doubt very much if that kind of experience happens in front of the camera. It's just a very muted performance without reactions. At the most you get the director coming out and telling you that it was a good shot. A lot of time passes since we start working on a film. Sometimes a year before you can actually get to hear that appreciation or not. Here this is a lot more enjoyable.

How does this Tour compare with your other Tours?
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan - The tour is unforgettable for multiple reasons. We always feel unfair when you ask us to compare the tour experiences, film experiences or any of our work experiences because each one at that given point of time is extremely special. We give our all to it and we come out all enriched with experience that down the line if you ask us to choose, it's like telling a mother to choose between her kids. But this Tour, personally for me, is extremely special because this is my first tour with the love of my life (hugs Abhishek) and it's his first world tour. It will always be like...We did this together. It's again special because it's got my mother-in-law and she is here with us too. Moments spent with her were memorable and will be cherish for a long long time (everyone claps).
Preity Zinta - I'd like to be a bit humorous. Actually, this is the first time that another heroine has taken care of me. So, if I go to have lunch or dinner at her apartment or room, she always serves me and takes care of me. So, I think that's pretty unforgettable (all laugh). I've always been pampered by Ash and there will never be a Tour like this again. So I'd like to thank Wizcraft and Mr Bachchan and everyone on this Tour. As a performer, it's a different story all together seeing Mr Bachchan perform. And really...I've grown up watching Sholay and watching his films. So it's amazing and I know that such thing will never happen again (all applaud).
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan - I'd like to add the fact that even though today I'm family and I do call him 'Pa' and that kind of comfort level, you know but it's just over a year now since I'm a part of the Bachchan family. I've been a part of this industry for a while and to grow up watching Pa's films is an honour. It's a dream to be doing this show with him. I am so glad Pa agreed to be a part of this Tour. He is a legend here...
Amitabh Bachchan - (humorously)....This is getting extremely embarrassing and I'd like to leave now with your kind permission (all laugh out loud).
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan - No way.
Amitabh Bachchan - Stop!! (then smiles)
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan - You're too sweet (laughs)

This is your first world tour Riteish. How's the experience been like and what steps have you taken to support the climate change which is associated with this tour?
Riteish Deshmukh - It's quite strange because I just finished shooting a film with Amitji. (looking at Mr Bachchan) Sorry Amitji, apologies but I had to mention it. As a child when I used to watch his films I was like ....Oh man! It's Amitabh Bachchan film. I never dreamt that one day I'd be doing a film with him. To share any kind of screen space and stage space with him is an honour and I'll always cherish it. The day when Abhishek called me for the world tour about a year and a half back, I immediately said, 'Let's go and have fun'. They've really taken care of me. As I've mentioned before many times that I am the youngest member of the Tour and the youngest one is the most loved one. I got to know Vishal and Shekhar and Preity a lot more through this tour. I got to know Ash know as well better. I am glad that because of Wizcraft, this day has seen the light of the day. About the climate change, about couple of years ago, I got aware of the seriousness of this issue and what we could do to help it. I watched the ads all over and people talking about it. I do what I can do to support this cause and I think we need to take actions at our own level to make a change at a larger level.

You are an artiste who doesn't return annually for tours be it at various intervals of your career. Frank Sinatra once quoted that each tour has its own memories and emotions that are associated with that phase of your life you're in. What does the Tour represent to you and how have things changed in the three decades you've spent bringing our cinema to international shores?
Amitabh Bachchan - I think initially what it demonstrates is the resilience of Indian cinema and the fact that our presentations and our performances and the way we come out to perform has not only increased in numbers but increased in the way it's presented. I keep repeating this story again and again. In 1973, I came out here with Jaya and was invited for a show in Southall and there were five people in the theatre. Two were Jaya's relatives and there were three ushers. Now we've matured to huge venues and a large number of people coming out to see us, the most memorable for me was at the Wembley Stadium. So every year with the awareness of Indian Cinema growing across Indian shores and different parts of the world, this is great news and if we can through our concerts and meet and greets and our performances create that atmosphere where our films are going to be watched by a larger number of people then I'm very happy to be associated with this. The entire film fraternity - my colleagues, my seniors, my juniors, they've all worked very hard with a great amount of confidence and aggression to make sure that the legacy of Indian cinema continues.

What is the nature of your relationship with the Indians in India and abroad?
Amitabh Bachchan - Well, primarily we're really proud of our country, our history, our culture. It goes to thousands of years. We're proud of the fact that we fought for our Independence and the largest democracy in the world and we're really proud now that the way India is progressing after the economic liberalisation. India today is a recognised force and I hope to see that India is no longer referred to as the third world country or a developing nation and should be referred to as developed nation (everyone applauds). Those that chose to go out of India and settle abroad and work, one must acknowledge their desire to do so but what I have noticed is that in spite of them going out and settling abroad, they still have never forgotten their roots and that's why we come and relate with them.

You've been writing on your blog throughout the Tour. Are you really enjoying the process of writing it?
Amitabh Bachchan - I've not been just writing during the tour. I'm now on Day 120 (i) and as soon as I get off from this Press Conference, I'll start the Day 121. I just feel that it's a wonderful medium to express myself, to express thoughts and ideas that come to me, to be able to connect to my fans and well wishers on a daily basis and an immediate basis. I know that the media, through its wonderful medium, will transfer the relationship that we have with you through your newspapers and television. Blog is something where we get to talk to them directly. We get their responses directly. It's a wonderful experience and I don't have to see the morning papers to check out what I said or what my reactions are or to wait for a week or a month to get a feedback in reverse as to what that particular article meant to several people. I write my thoughts and within seconds, at times even faster, I get a response and that's marvelous. I think very large percentage of those who visit my blog are complimenting. There are abuses as well, there is dislike and debate and there is discussion too. I encourage that. I do not ask my server to monitor any remarks that comes to me because I think it's important to give space to people who do not agree with you. It's wonderful to know that the whole world does not have to necessarily agree with what you have to say just because you happen to be a film star. I'm very happy what I'm doing and hope to continue that (everyone applauds).

Who was the brain behind this Tour and who selected whom for this Tour?
Amitabh Bachchan - All of us, everyone's brains. All of us selected each other (everyone laughs and then applauds).

There are so many other causes to support. So why only climate change, why not poverty? Climate change is a western cause which is finding its way back home in India. Did you find the cause or did the cause find you?
Amitabh Bachchan - When IIFA was celebrated in Yorkshire, that's the first time two years ago that Wizcraft International and the founding committee decided that we would acknowledge the cause of global warming. There was an association called 'Global Cool' which was based outside England and we joined hands with them and are very strongly behind it. When we took this cause with this tour, we thought that this was something universal. We felt it would be out of place to be performing in Houston for a village in India and we felt that if we're touring the entire world, we should look at a cause that encompasses everyone. I think that all of you would agree that global warming is indeed a universal cause that all of us should look after. You mentioned it being a cause too western. I think that is not entirely correct. I think all of us are victims of global warming. It could be that the U.S and the developed world is largely responsible for the emissions. But in time to come with India developing and the kind of development that is taking place, we will also be victims of the same kinds of emissions and therefore perhaps the West is trying to warn us to take pre active measures before we get into a situation that they are in now presently. I think that is very wise. At this year IIFA in Bangkok we had the good fortune of honoring Dr Pachauri whose work on environment got him the noble peace prize. During his lecture which he gave at the business forum, we were made aware of several other factors which we were terribly excited and moved with. One was the idea of growing more trees and joining a campaign of a billion tree program. I'm happy to state that we have now managed to go beyond the billion figure. Dr Pachauri also stated that 33% of the world is still without electricity. It's a little contrary to global warming to try and work with electricity. But he wanted to use Solar energy to try and get electricity to the villages. A large number of that 33% comes from India. Hopefully, through this Tour we will be able to at least contribute to one village. As the Tour goes to different countries we want to increase the number of villages we can lend our support to. He has given us all a solar lantern. It's a kind of system that is well prevalent now in some of the villages in India and we hope to be able to propagate that (all stand and applause).

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SRK goes house-hunting

Shooting for Billoo Barber in Pollachi was not easy for Lara Dutta. The actress, who has returned from Delhi after receiving the Rajiv Gandhi Memorial award, says it was one of the most difficult schedules of her life.

We actors are quite spoilt as far as basic comforts go. Forget luxury hotels, there were no decent accommodations in Pollachi, Tamil Nadu. It was just very basic."

Billoo producer Shah Rukh Khan is obliged to Lara for stepping in for the project when every leading lady from Bipasha to Ameesha turned him down. The actress reveals that he took charge of Lara's accommodation.

"When Shah Rukh got to know there were no proper hotels in Pollachi, he personally made inquiries about where I could stay. He found out about this super old plantation-styled South Indian home where we'd be comfortable. SRK himself scouted around personally for this place. He then went to the house and checked it out before we moved there. It was really sweet. No producer would do this. They'd make you stay in whatever was available. SRK was fabulous."

To add to her woes, Lara also found a huge poisonous snake in her room one day. "I'm not really scared of snakes. I've come across some in my time. But the whole surprise and excitement of finding one was quite something."

The worst was yet to come. Says Lara, "We couldn't travel by car or bus. We had to travel on a tractor. The locals had a field day watching me and Shah Rukh swish by, in a tractor. It was quite an experience for me to travel in a tractor in a sari, an entertainment beyond the screen," Lara laughs heartily.

All this roughing out was just what Lara's role required. "These things keep you on your toes as an actor." Billoo Barber was a first for Lara on many counts, "I had never worked with Shah Rukh or Irrfan Khan. It's essentially Irrfan's film. He's such a subtle actor, I had to change my acting style completely."

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Shilpa: Goody… bye, Jade

When Shilpa Shetty was told on Monday, that her fellow inmate from Big Brother UK, Jade Goody, had been detected with cervical cancer, Shilpa didn't know how to react.

"I suddenly knew why I couldn't recognise her when I met her. Life has put her through so much, she had changed," says a subdued Shilpa.

After she heard the tragic news, Shetty immediately wanted to meet Jade. "But she had to be whisked away immediately from Lonavla on Monday. Early Tuesday morning, she had her flight from where she had to be taken for chemotherapy in London."

Shilpa got Jade's phone number and spoke to her at the airport just before the Brit reality star left for London.

It was an incredibly emotional experience for Shilpa, free of rancour. "Speaking to her was not easy. It was very tough. There was never any rancour," says Shilpa. "Yes, I was hurt when in the Big Brother House, she made some comments about our country. But even in the House we made peace after the initial rancour. Once out, the media went to town and she got the brunt of it. It was really sad when Jade was slammed. I never wanted to become a champion of the third-world at her cost."

Interestingly, Colors had checked with Shilpa before inviting Jade Goody to be a contestant on Big Boss. "Yeah, when the channel decided on Jade they asked me if it was okay with me. If I had any ill feelings towards her I'd have said no, but the truth is, there was no ill feelings. My only precondition was that Jade should be treated well at Big Boss. I knew how it felt to go to a foreign country and be in a hostile situation. I felt so proud to see how she was treated. It just reiterated the fact we Indians are very forgiving and welcoming."

Now Shilpa plans to meet Jade, "I only had a chance to speak to her before she left. I will meet her when I go to London for the Unforgettables concert with the Bachchans at the end of the month."

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It's all for the money, honey!

Sylvester Stallone is mighty excited about his Bollywood debut in Sajid Nadiadwala's Kambakth Ishq. However, Hollywood sites and blogs don't share his enthusiasm.

Recently, Perezhilton.com, a popular blog that writes about various actors remarked on Stallone's current financial state. In the past, Perez has also remarked about how Stallone is reviving the Rocky series to pay off his debt. Recently, the bog posted an article on how Stallone is going all out to try and make as much moolah as possible.

The blog posted about a Stallone signing a contract with a Russian vodka company and compared that to his stint of venturing into Bollywood films. Stallone has managed to sign the deal for 1 million dollars. Sources reveal that he also got paid 10 crore for his role in Kambakth Ishq.

A source reveals, "One of the biggest reasons for Stallone working in Kambakth is the money he's offered. Even though Rocky Balboa opened well, it didn't do as well as the other movies in the series." Stallone is playing himself in the movie and recently shot with Akshay and Kareena in the US.

When contacted, Sajid Nadiadwala says, "I have stayed in his mansion at Beverly Hills and driven in his million-dollar car so I don't know where all this is coming from. But it's interesting how Hollywood is sitting up and taking notice of our talent. We've grown up watching Stallone's movies. How much money he made or his financial background was not my concern when I signed him. If Bollywood is doing well for itself, there definitely will be attempts to pull it down."

Denise Richards told Larry King that she did a reality show, because she needed the cash to support her daughters. Apparently Denise gets $52,000 a month tax-free in child support. Denise also appeared on the Ellen DeGeneres show and spoke about earning extra income to support her family.

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Imran Khan's - 'Kidnap' - 'Mit Jayee' Promo

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Shilpa Shetty's Big Secret

Seems like media queen, Shilpa Shetty has been hiding a secret since the start of her career. What could this publicity whore possibly be hiding from the press? Well looks like she's been lying to us the whole time because Shilpa's real name is actually Ashwini Shetty! The actress had her name changed while she was still a teenager to follow an astrological pundit's advice. Hmm... Ashwini... who knew? So which do you prefer? Drop us a comment with your thoughts!

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Akshay Kumar signed as the brand ambassador for Levi's

After the unprecedented success of the Anees Bazmee directed Singh Is Kinng, Akshay Kumar has been 'Singh-ing' all his way to the bank. The film has not just upped his Bollywood status, but has also made him the advertiser's darling.

After endorsing brands like Thums Up and Grasim, Akshay has now been roped in as the Brand Ambassador for the American Jeans and casual wear manufacturer, Levi Strauss, for launching its brand Levi's 501 in India.

According to reliable sources, Akshay has been paid a whopping sum for the endorsement of the jeans brand, whose ads have been shot in some of the most stunning locations of Los Angeles. These ads are expected to go on air from the last week of this month.

It's about time that we say (read 'declare') that being 'Akshay Kumar' has got its own merits. What say, Akki!

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''Why is Rakhi Sawant talking like this?'' - Shilpa Shetty

This week has been really tough on Shilpa. First Jade Goody's traumatic adieu. Then a member of her own film fraternity Rakhi Sawant was heard telling TV channels that a contestant on Big Boss must have been changed because of Shilpa.

When questioned about Rakhi's allegation, Shilpa says she's appalled. "I don't even want to talk about her. But I was very hurt. I really like Rakhi . Why was she talking this way about me without knowing the facts? How does she know the facts about how contestants were chosen? I don't think it's right for anyone to shoot off her mouth in this way. You may have an outspoken image that you're always eager to uphold. But please don't flaunt that image at my cost."

Shilpa was also appalled by her effigies being burnt. Apparently, Ramdas Atahavle was approached to go into the house. He claims he was dropped because of Shilpa's manoeuvres.

The actress doesn't know whether to laugh or cry at this. "It's the channel's prerogative to select or reject a candidate. Until two days prior to the show, I didn't even know who was going. The format doesn't allow the host to know the contestants .Mr Athavle claims he was dropped on discriminatory grounds because he was a Dalit and Sanjay Nirupam was taken instead."

Shilpa is outraged. "Why was I being blamed if a candidate didn't make it into Big Boss? Why were they throwing stones at the channel Colors' office and burning my effigy? They even held a dharna in Lonavla in front of the Big Boss house. Why me? Every time I'm associated with something people try to use my name for their own purposes. Please leave me alone."

Taking a deep breath Shilpa laughs. "I think I should take all this attention as a compliment. But somewhere it does take its toll on my mental equilibrium. We all need to be more responsible about our duties as a citizen. My phone went ballistic on Tuesday. I'm in the midst of a dozen things and then to be badgered like this! I'm human and I don't like my name being constantly used. Don't hit where it hurts the most. I think they should start auctioning my effigies."

Laughs Shilpa, "But really, Rakhi Sawant takes the cake. What authority does she have to make such charges against me? I'd have Rakhi know that it's the channel's prerogative to decide the participants. I'm hired by the channel to do a job. My jurisdiction is to go on stage and host the show."

Shilpa wants police action against the practice of burning effigies. "It's really very sad that known people are subjected to this. It's very degrading?"

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Mallika Sherawat plays a 'bad' actor

Playing a lousy actor is not an easy thing to do. Preity Zinta and Arshad Warsi have done it in Rituparno Ghosh's The Last Lear and Neeraj Vora's Shortkut, respectively.

Now it's Mallika Sherawat's turn to play a member of the world's hammiest theatre group in the world in Maan Gaye Mughall-e-Azam. And apparently, Mallika has done a splendid job. However at the moment her morale is shaken.

According to people who know her Mallika is shattered by the box-office performance of Ugly Aur Pagli and has gone into a shell.

Says a co-star, "Mallika had given the film her best shot, and was expecting it to be a glorious follow-up to Pyar Ke Side Effects. The poor show of the film has affected her. She's no longer that confident of her next release Maan Gaye Mughall-e-Azam."

And now Mallika has a harder task ahead. She has to prove herself playing a part of what is described in the film as the worst theatre company in the universe. So in essence Mallika has to play a bad actress in Maan Gaye Mughall-e-Azam. Rahul Bose who has done two films with Mallika feels she has immense talent. "Mallika is part of the theatre repertory in Maan Gaye…. In fact all the principal actors Mallika, Paresh Rawal (who plays her husband), Kay Kay Menon and Zakir Hussain are part of the theatre group. I am not part of the theatre group. I'm a RAW agent who needs to save the world by taking the help of a theatre company containing probably the world's worst actors. So the world's worst theatre group is helping me to save the world."

In essence, brilliant actors like Paresh and KK are required to ham it up. Laughs Rahul, "The only thing that this theatre group can do effectively on stage is a rendition of K. Asif's film Mughal-e-Azam. That's where my Salim act with Anarkali comes in. I am only fantasizing about being on stage with Mallika."

Rahul has never done broad comedy before. "And I'm delighted by how good Mallika is at comedy. I'm the guy who tries to get her attention right under her husband Paresh Rawal's nose."

It's Mallika's Murder in a mirthful milieu. Incidentally, the letter 'm', Mallika once agreed with me, was lucky for her. Her first hit was Murder. Her mentor was Mahesh Bhatt. And her first international break was in The Myth.

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Ranbir and Bipasha together!

Astrange sighting of the week was Ranbir Kapoor and hold your breath — Bipasha Basu.

They both were spotted together without their respective partners Deepika Padukone and John Abraham. The venue was Saif Ali Khan’s birthday party hosted by Kareena Kapoor.

The lead pair of Bachna Ae Haseeno drove down together for Saif’s party, raising many eyebrows. “We were pleasantly surprised when they came together for the party,” says an actor on condition of anonymity. We wonder why John and Deepika were not present, or were they just not invited!

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Saif and Kareena goes solo

Lovebirds Kareena Kapoor and Saif Ali Khan will be performing their first solo show in Sharjah.

Apart from working together in films and endorsements, Kareena and Saif are also looking at doing such shows together.

Like most Khans, Saif is a hot favourite in Dubai. And Kareena also has a huge fan-following there. So when the Morani brothers approached them for a show together, they were ecstatic. The Moranis are scripting and directing the show. The show, Jashan 2008, will be held at the Sharjah Stadium and the only other person who will part of this show along with Saif and Kareena is Minissha Lamba.

All three of them will have solo entries. Saif and Kareena will be doing their respective acts and for the first time, performing together. They have been rehearsing rigorously at the Shariq Hall for the last couple of days."

Kareena says, "I am very excited about the show. This is the first time that Saif and I are performing together.

I have got a huge fan following in Dubai because of Jab We Met."

Besides her solo act, Minissha is also performing a song with Saif. While Minissha will be performing Hum Tum songs with Saif, Sajanaji Vaari Vaari from Honeymoon Travels Pvt Ltd and will wear ghagra choli and a western outfit (designed by Reza Shariffi) for her performances. Kareena's outfits have been made by Manish Malhotra.

Other performers will include Indian Idol contestants, Amit Paul, Ankita, Kashif and father-son singing duo Shabbir Kumar and Dilshad.

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'1920': Vikram Bhatt is back

Vikram Bhatt made a remarkable impact with RAAZ. Later, Bhatt made all kinds of films, ranging from likable [AWARA PAAGAL DEEWANA] to engaging [ANKAHEE] to mediocre [LIFE MEIN KABHIE KABHIEE] to outright bad. Almost a year ago, he decided to take a sabbatical from work, investing his time and energies on just one project: 1920. So was the wait worth it? Oh yes, it is!

1920 is set in the pre-independence era, but before you jump to conclusions, it's not a patriotic film. It's an eerie film about an aatma that seeks revenge. Just don't mistake it for another horror film or a film where blood, gore, skulls and skeletons send a shiver down your spine. There's nothing of the sort in 1920.

1920 works because it's a combination of a captivating story [Vikram Bhatt], a watertight screenplay [Vikram Bhatt, Dhiraj Ratan; the second hour is spell-binding], expert performances [Adah Sharma is a discovery, a talent to watch out for, Rajneesh Duggal is competent], melodious music [Adnan Sami] and a stunning castle [located in Yorkshire; captured beautifully on celluloid]. The castle is important to the story and must add, it takes the film to a different level.

Last but not the least, 1920 marks the comeback of Vikram Bhatt. Watch him recreate the drama, watch him execute the conclusion with panache and you know that the talented storyteller is back and how!

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Singh Is Kinng bombs in Bihar

This has never happened before. A film that does extraordinary business all over the country and overseas has bombed in one specific area. Anees Bazmee's Singh Is Kinng is a flop in Bihar, an area where Akshay Kumar's films from Jaanwar to Hey Babyy have acquired a blockbuster status without batting an eyelid.

The reason for this incongruous occurrence? According to on one of Bihar's primary exhibitors, Suman Sinha, "The Punjabi dialogues songs and dances went against the film. The Bihar distributor paid a whopping amount of money to buy Singh Is Kinng and is now going to lose a hefty amount."

Producer Vipul Shah is aware of his blockbuster's tainted spot in Bihar. "I've heard that the 'Punjabiyat' and Sikh theme have gone against the film's success in Bihar. But I don't understand why. We were aware that some areas would reject the film's USP, namely the Sikh ambience. Surprisingly, the film has done extremely well even in Bengal where we thought the audience would've trouble connecting with the theme. There's really no explanation for what has happened to Singh Is Kinng in Bihar."

Interestingly, there have been instances of films that have bombed in the rest of the country doing well in Bihar like Hamesh Malhotra's Dulhe Raja and Riteish Deshmukh's debut film Tujkho Meri Kasam. But never has a world-wide hit been rejected in Bihar. Vipul Shah's and Anees Bazmee's films have always done well Bihar. And Jab We Met which also had large dollops of 'Punjabiyat' was a hit in the State.

Says Suman Sinha, "But Jab We Met didn't thrust the Bhangra culture up audiences' throats. Like it or not, the rest of the country is not as fond of Punjabi culture as Bollywood."

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'Drona' is not a super-hero film

Another director who's back after a sabbatical is Goldie Behl. There has been a substantial gap between his directorial debut BAS ITNA SA KHWAAB HAI and his second outing DRONA. "Two reasons," Goldie spells out, "Nothing inspired me to start a film in the intervening period. Besides, I decided to dabble in television and establish my company."

He gets into an introspective mood. "I was completely disillusioned. I took failure to my heart. But with the passage of time, I realized that one should never take failure to heart or success to head," the soft-spoken director states.

Goldie penned a couple of scripts in the intervening period. "And also made 3 / 4 films in my mind," he laughs. DRONA was 'born' after a lot of thinking and brainstorming sessions.

Now this is important: A lot of people feel that DRONA is a super-hero film, on the lines of Batman and Superman. Is it? "It's not! It's a modern-day fantasy adventure. Let me clarify, we haven't copied the West or the East. It's an original concept, very Indian at heart, a desi film, but presented in a contemporary format," he divulges.

Please continue. "I've grown up on popular Indian cinema and having grown up in a family environment, you'll see a lot of familial bonding in DRONA. The bonding between Jaya Aunty [Jaya Bachchan] and Abhishek on screen is terrific, it's an extension of what they're in real life. In fact, Jaya Aunty is the trump card of my film, the real USP. And as a director, I must add that it's one of her finest works ever," Goldie states with all humility.

Final words? "I am sure, DRONA would not only work with the Indian audiences, but also internationally," he says. Amen!

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Vipul Shah's 'London Dreams' fetched 120 crores

Enough of hearsay, here's the first official confirmation… SINGH IS KINNG is past. Vipul Shah has moved on. He's all set to embark on his new venture, LONDON DREAMS. The film, as we all know by now, brings the HUM DIL DE CHUKE SANAM combination of Salman Khan and Ajay Devgan after a hiatus.

One of the hottest projects without doubt, LONDON DREAMS has caught the fancy of a number of corporate entities, but the one to bag the rights is Indian Films, the same firm that acquired SINGH IS KINNG for an astronomical amount. LONDON DREAMS too comes with a heavy price tag: Rs. 120 crores.

"Yes, that's the figure," Vipul Shah makes his first official statement, "We've [Indian Films and Vipul] shook hands, only the paper work has to be completed." Earlier, Vipul's SINGH IS KINNG set the record of being the most expensive film. Now his next film has set the bar higher!

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Mallika Magic on Star Voice of India

Madame Mallike Sherawat surely knows how to draw maximum eyeballs, especially when her film release is around the corner. With Maan Gaye Mughall-e-Azam releasing this Friday, Mallika is leaving no stone unturned to publicize and promote the film.


Mallika shot for a special episode of the singing reality show Star Voice of India. Needless to say the participants and audience went hysterical seeing the diva herself. Mallika who plays 'Anarkali' in the film had to choose her 'Salim' and after watching everyone's performances she chose Zakir as her 'Salim' and even gifted him a ring. Needless to say he was maha-thrilled by her gesture.

Mallika, who looked sizzling hot in a red dress, was even seen cheering judge Sukhwinder as he bogeyed. This fun-filled episode airs on August 22 at 10:00 pm IST.

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Bips-Yuvi get sporty!!!

Style and sports came together with the renowned cricketer Yuvraj Singh and famous actress Bipasha Basu outdoor campaign for Reebok today. Interestingly, the first offer went to Bips' beau John Abraham who wrangled himself out of the ad due to a commitment with Wrangler. If you recall, John sported Reebok in GOAL.

Nevertheless, Yuvi is a worthy replacement being a stylish sports icon for the youth. This blending with Bipasha's style and class makes this campaign one of its kind. Reebok feels that this combination will make a difference. Says a Reebok spokesperson, ''The chemistry between the duo is evident. And the combination looks classy not just in this ad campaign, but the looks for the other sub-brands. We will have the classic, rugby looks among others that will be revealed.''

Bipasha is naturally elated with the Yuvi combination. ''It is fun and Yuvi is a bundle of energy. It feels great working with him,'' she says, adding that the same goes for working with the entire Indian cricket squad.

Talking of the brand, Bipasha has a few things to say. ''The stylish clothes and patterns are amazing. You can call Reebok a confluence of sorts and style. I associate with it as it is the kind of clothing I wear, being a fitness conscious person myself. I am sporty person and these clothes are a part of my life.''

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Salman, Saif and Kareena at the 11th Annual Rajiv Gandhi Awards 2008

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Sonam Kapoor on the cover of ELLE magazine

When we got a copy of the August edition of the fashion mag ELLE, we were not just surprised but were highly delighted when we saw the beautiful cover-girl. Looking like a supermodel from Paris, she was no other than the talented young actress, Sonam Kapoor.

Sonam simply looks stunning on the cover, to say the least. And it's not just the cover, her pictures inside the mag scream in silence showing the untapped potential that Sonam has. One must say that God must have really spent a few extra hours while creating this beauty!

In this issue, Sonam clears the air about 'issues' like lack of confidence, backless ghagra, weight issues etc… She also speaks about her growing up days, her stint working with Sanjay Leela Bhansali, and also her 'investments'.

Go for it guys, and be stunned as we still are…

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Saif Ali Khan, Lara Dutta, Darsheel Safary receive the Rajiv Gandhi award

Saif Ali Khan had more reasons than one to celebrate over the weekend. While the actor brought in his birthday (Aug 16) with family and friends by his side at a bash hosted by beau Kareena Kapoor, he also added yet another award to his growing list of awards.

Saif Ali Khan was awarded the Best Actor trophy at the 11th Annual Rajiv Gandhi Awards 2008. The event, which took place at N.C.P.A. (Mumbai) yesterday (Aug 17) saw some rocking performances by top Bollywood stars like Salman Khan, Kareena Kapoor, Rakhi Sawant and music composers Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy. Besides Saif, other Bollywood personalities who walked away with the award included Lara Dutta (Best Actress) and Darsheel Safary (Child Prodigy).

The Rajiv Gandhi awards are held annually and honor people from different walks of life who have achieved excellence in their respective fields.

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Zayed returns back to work in Bangkok after an accident while shooting Blue

Zayed Khan who's currently on a self-performing stunts spree jumped out of a high-rise in Bangkok while shooting for Blue. The fall went wrong and Zayed's foreheaed hit the windshield of a car. "The blood gushed out and was all over my face. It took a while for everyone to realize I was injured," says Zayed from Bangkok.

After a visit to the hospital, a couple of stitches, heavy sedation and antibiotics on Sunday, Zayed was back shooting on Monday morning. "Fortunately the cut is hidden by my hair. So no continuity problems," says Zayed whose family back home, panicked when they heard about the accident. Earlier during the month when Zayed Khan's deejay brother-in-law Aqeel opened a new outlet for his chain of nightclub Poison in Hyderabad, Zayed with his wife Malaika and son Zidaan joined Aqeel in his hour of excitement. "Aqeel is not my brother-in-law. He's my brother," says Zayed who happens to be the only son in a family of daughters. "We're not just close; we also stay a stone's throw away from one another in Mumbai. We're there for Aqeel whenever he needs us. I came to Hyderabad with my wife just to support him."

Zayed's wife who's half-English (her mom is British and father Gujarati) was away visiting her folks in London for a whole month-and-a-half. She has just returned. "It was her brother's 40th birthday and the whole family was getting together. Much as I wanted her to stay back during the release of Mission Istaanbul, I could not keep her away from such an important moment in her family's life. She hadn't visited her parents for a very long time. First she was pregnant, then Zidaan was born and was to small to travel... This was her first break from Mumbai."

Zayed seems to be one of the few devoted husbands in Bollywood. "Am I? That's surprising. Anyway, let the others have fun. I'm happy being devoted to Malaika." While his wife was away Zayed had a ball shooting in the Bahamas for Blue and then Yuvraj. "Working with a living legend like Subhash Ghai in Yuvrajis such a privilege. It's tearjerker with drama about relationships. It's the quintessential Bollywood films. And my other forthcoming film Blue is just the opposite experience. It's a get-happy adventure-sporty film. I'm also a doing a romantic-comedy with Vashu Bhagnani. I haven't done one of those. I was dying to doing it. I'm looking forward to juicing this one."

A pakka family man Zayed has his father Sanjay Khan's reputation as a jubilee star to live up to. "I'm aware of my dad's track record. But I'm not just looking to equal his track record. I'm hoping to better it. But seriously, today the box-office has changed so much. Things were different in my dad's times. The relationships within the industry and definitions of success have changed. Today you can't walk on the road without a camera following you. You either love it. Or you don't. But I'm not scared of the future. I'll keep trying until I succeed."

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Abhishek, John and Priyanka Sizzle In the New Trailer For Dostana

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We are gay!

The 60-second trailer of Dharma Productions' Dostana is the most controversial Hindi film promo in the history of Bollywood.

The video shows leading men Abhishek Bachchan and John Abraham as lovers. HiTLIST got a sneak preview of the clipping, which hits theatres today along with Bachna Ae Haseeno.

The promo opens with the signature Dharma tune of Kal Ho Na Ho, with the Miami skyline and a pink convertible speeding on an open road. Soon, the mellow tune gives way to a bouncy hip-hop number, and a bare-bodied John Abraham emerges from the water in yellow trunks. Without wasting much time, the promo then cuts the scene where John and Abhishek are doing the tango, with Bachchan Jr, holding a rose in his teeth. In another scene John announces to a woman, "Hum gay hain!" and pointing to Abhishek adds, "Yeh mera boyfriend hai!"

This is the first time that a mainstream Bollywood film with big actors has based its entire storyline around the gay theme. There are multiple shots of John and Abhishek romancing each other, holding hands, blowing kisses, hugging and even lying on top of each other! It's blatantly evident that of the two, Abhishek's character is more camp while John is the man in the relationship. It's hard to miss the two dressed up in sailor outfits, an ode to the fantasies of a gay man.

Priyanka heats up the promo in a stunning gold swimsuit on the Miami beach. Towards the end, there's another closer bare-bodied shot of John coming out of the ocean.

Interestingly, the 60-second promo doesn't go OTT or crack lame jokes on the gay community. The tone of the teaser is that of festivity, fun and frolic. John and Abhishek's on-screen romance will give many hot Bollywood jodis a run for their money.

Why Gay?
Abhishek Bachchan and John Abraham pretend to be gay to rent a room. The landlady doesn't let the place out to bachelors, therefore the act.

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Hrithik - Barbara in New Mexico

Hrithik Roshan was honoured at a function in New Mexico. The actor was there with Kites co-star, along with Barbara Mori. The event was hosted by Bibiji Inderjit Kaur, who is the goodwill ambassador in New Mexico.

A source that attended the party reveals that locals from all over the place thronged the party to have a glimpse of Hrithik and Barbara.

The actor has been shooting for Kites in the nearby mountainous area for a sequence involving car crashes.
Hrithik spent most of the time mingling with the locals.

Rakesh Roshan was also present. One of the locals who attended the event, says, "Hrithik was the star attraction for the event.

Since it was held inside the house of one of the locals, there wasn't much security and people filled in each and every room. Kangana was missing from the cast, but Hrithik was seen introducing Barbara to everyone around. He even made sure she was comfortable and wasn't left by herself."

Hrithik, Barbara and Rakesh Roshan were given certificates and awards by the local officials honouring them.

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Wedding in the Khan-daan

Salman Khan grooved to Singh Is Kinng and Pappu Can't Dance Saala among other B-Town chartbusters (but not any of SRK's!) with his brothers Arbaaz and Sohail and sisters Alvira and Arpita.

The Khan kids (Arbaaz and Sohail's boys) too removed their shirts to groove bare-chested like their uncle. Arpita and her friends performed specially choreographed steps on a medley of popular tracks. The emcee even took recourse to 10 Ka Dum lingo… oopar, oopar-neeche, neeche to tell the guests when to be on the dance floor.

The Khan-daan is making merry as there's a wedding in the family. Sallu's cousin Kavita Charak ties the knot with Bandra boy Saif Baig today. The first of the events the sangeet was held at Sea Princess hotel, Juhu, on Wednesday night. Kavita is Salma Khan's brother Dr Dilip Charak's daughter.

Sallu's uncle is a dentist and the family lives in Mahim. Kavita, a graphic designer and Saif, son of Sadiq and Moina Baig, who have a cargo handling business met through common friends.

Sallu, sporting a hairband, appeared to be in an extremely jubilant mood as he sat with the kids singing along to the tracks. There was also Helen, Sohail's wife Seema and Atul Agnihotri (Alvira's hubby). The only person missing was Arbaaz's wife Malaika, who is indisposed.

The wedding ceremony will be held today followed by a reception on Saturday.

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Salman, Saif, Aamir skip Rani's bash

Earlier this week, Rani Mukerji hosted a party at her newly renovated bungalow. Except Shah Rukh, no other Khan (among the actors) turned up. Which is strange as the actress is close to all the Khans.

Rani recently moved into a spacious new home in the upscale Juhu neighborhood. She'd been planning to host a housewarming party but given her own busy schedule and that of her starry guests, she had a tough time fixing a day that suited everyone.

Rani's bungalow, christened KrishnaRam, has been done up by Sussanne (Hrithik) Roshan and Twinkle (Akshay) Kumar. And the two ladies were also present as the others guests walked about Rani's new abode admiring the interiors. Also present were Rani's parents, her brother Raja, sister-in-law Jyoti and two-year- old niece Mysha.

There were only about 15 guests at the party amongst whom were SRK, Gauri, Karan Johar, Farah Khan, Farhan Akhtar, Anil Kapoor and Sunita, Akshay Kumar and Twinkle and Sussanne Roshan (Hrithik's in USA shooting for Kites). Aditya Chopra was also missing from the party.

Why they chose to stay away:

Aamir Khan
The dinner was originally planned for Sunday but was cancelled at the last minute, which is why Aamir was missing.

For some reason it kept getting postponed.

The actor left the city on Sunday night. He was in Chennai to award receive an award for the 11th Gollapudi Srinivas National Award on Tuesday, after which he left on an unknown destination abroad.

Salman Khan
Salman and Rani have worked together in many films, including Khan's home production, and ideally he would've been a part of the celebration.

But given Rani's proximity with Aditya Chopra and Karan Johar — both of whom are SRK"s friends — Sallu wasn't invited. Rani as she didn't want any akwardness at her bash.

Saif Ali Khan
Rani's Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic co-star was invited along with his girlfriend Kareena Kapoor.

But they excused themselves citing Saif's daughter Sara's birthday bash.

The couple stayed away as Bebo isn't too fond of Rani.

They've worked together in the past and never warmed to each other.

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"I am not playing a casanova or a playboy" - Ranbir Kapoor

Last Diwali when Ranbir Kapoor was feted worldwide for his performance in his debut, most reviewers expressed surprise that the young Kapoor protege was capable of such stirring efforts. After all, wasn't he just the pretty boy who'd sung, dance and smirked his way through Saawariya? Perhaps the reviewers should not have been so taken aback. Moreover, hugely adventurous and artistically ambitious, he'd proved from an early age to be a fledgling Renaissance Man (aakhir beta kiska hai), a cultural sponge, sucking up the wisdom of those older and more experienced than himself (Bipasha Basu), and he'd continued this practice in his film career, drawing on the likes of his great grandfather, grandfather and father. In this Bollywood Hungama exclusive the actor spoke to Devansh Patel about his Saawariya days, why working with Minissha was special, his lucky girl Bipasha Basu, his friend John Abraham, his Independence Day message and his hard hitting answer to the question - Why Yash Raj Films should shut down?

You've been quite busy promoting Bachna Ae Haseeno…
I know man! It's been really crazy yaar, running up and down.

While Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Saawariya kept you in the closet right till the end. Here Yash Rajs way of working and promoting is a complete contrast. How different was it then?
Well, I think in today's day and age, promoting a film is really important. Marketing has a huge impact towards the film because it makes all aware of that particular film and that's what we are doing for Bachna Ae Haseeno. I am going through the same emotions, nervousness and the anxiety which I went in Saawariya. It's all coming back to me now. So I hope that people like and enjoy Bachna Ae Haseeno and hopefully I will taste my first commercial success.

The first thing I noticed when I called you up was that your caller tune has 'Jab Se Tere Naina' song playing. Don't you think you should have 'Khuda Jaane' playing instead?
Saawariya was my debut film and 'Jab Se Tere Naina' is always going to be a special song to me because that song gave a lot to me. People liked the song and really appreciated it a lot. I am not being biased here but I have no second thoughts of changing the song right now.

You are working with your real life Saawariya, Deepika. Is that a good enough reason for Bachna Ae Haseeno to be a hit?
I don't think so. I don't think that if a real life couple does a film together, it'll be a hit. Yes, it does garner more attention as far as the media is concerned but I don't think anything beyond that makes or breaks the film. Both me and Deepika can't gaze our chemistry on screen but it's our audiences who know better whether or not our chemistry works and we are right now awaiting their response.

How was it like singing the same song which your father, Mr Rishi Kapoor, sung in 'Hum Kissi Se Kum Nahin'?
Singing 'Bachna Ae Haseeno' song was scary and at the same time it was quite heart warming because you can't compare yourself to the legends like Kishore Kumar, R.D.Burman and Rishi Kapoor. As the title of the film was Bachna Ae Haseeno, we couldn't resist ourselves from using that particular number. The title track will not be seen in the movie as it's a promotional track. It was great fun filming the evergreen song. It was our own sweet representation on the song and it has again caught on a lot with the youth of today's day and age.

Moving on to 'Khuda Jaane', we hear that the song is very near and dear to both you and Deepika. Plus the picturesque locations of Italy with your white outfit makes the perfect icing.
Well, it's a wonderful song and the first song of the album and obviously our main song. The song means a lot to us because it's my first romantic duet in the movie and I think it's been picturised on beautiful locations. Akki Narula did a great job with the costumes, Ahmed Khan choreographed the song and Siddharth Anand, the director, had this wonderful vision to the song. I hope the audiences like it when they see it on big screen.

Are you also scared of heights?
Yes, I'm petrified of heights but I did overcome my fear while shooting 'Khuda Jaane'. When Ahmed and Siddharth put me on top of an approximately 100 ft rock type sculpture and I had to stand on top of it to sing 'Khuda Jaane' with different hand movements, it was really scary. But when I saw it on the big screen I felt proud that I managed to keep my nerve and do that shot. It has come out wonderfully well.

It's also your debut with all three leading ladies in Bachna Ae Haseeno. So tell me, who's the good, better and the best?
(Laughs). I was comfortable with everyone but the chapter with Minissha was the most fun because we both are shown as seventeen year olds in the film. We got to do some really fun stuff like bike around Switzerland, ride on the huskies, on the glaciers, roller coasters, etc. Honestly, I've had a great time shooting with both Deepika and Minissha. Both are beautiful to work with and highly talented.

Share with us your experiences of working with your onscreen lucky girl Bipasha Basu.
When I started working on Bachna Ae Haseeno, Bipasha was the first person I started off the film with. I was in complete awe of her and much of the fact that she was my first major big co-star. So I was a bit nervous to be working with her initially. Apart from being hot and all that she has achieved over the years, she is a great human being and never made me feel as if I was a ranked new comer. I have now made a good friend for life. I'm really friendly with Bipasha and hope that I get to work with her again in the near future.

Your father too has been a part of Yash Raj Films and now you carry on the tradition. Any tips from Kapoor senior given to Kapoor junior?
There is nothing about taking an advice. Yash Raj is a very big banner. They make beautiful movies. Off late, yes, their movies haven't been really successful but that doesn't take away the fact that they've given such amazing phenomenal films to the Indian cinema. I just feel privileged and honoured to be a part of such a production. Hopefully, if this film does well then I'll be doing more movies with Yash Raj. My father lets me take my own decisions and learn from them.

From a sincere lover in Saawariya to a playboy in BAH. Correct me if I've got it wrong.
Let me correct you (laughs). I am not playing a casanova or a playboy. It's a role of a guy next door with whom you and every other person can identify with. It's a journey of Raj from 17 years to 30 years, different relationships he has and different phases of those relationships and what these relationships teach him about love and life.

Part of the world media strongly recommends Yash Raj Films to shut down. Do you want to comment on this statement?
I am absolutely appalled by this behaviour. People only judge actors and directors by their failures but do not take into consideration their successful films. Look at the kind of movies Yash Raj has given to Indian cinema over the past forty years. We should be proud of that. Movies run and don't run is not in the hands of the director or the producer. The fact that Yash Raj makes movies passionately and spoil their actors, they make you part of the Yash Raj family and to work with them in only my second film is a big achievement. I feel sad when I hear such bizzare statements, that too coming from the media.

Why should one go and watch Bachna Ae Haseeno on India's Independence Day?
India has tri colours and Bachna Ae Haseeno has the beautiful trio - Bipasha, Minissha and Deepika. Primarily that's the best I can think of what syncs with the Independence Day. Secondly, because of the story, the music and a little bit of me. So everything put together makes a good enough reason to go and watch this film.

I know I might be in trouble if I ask you this but in good humour, did you call John Abraham up telling him that he is no longer Bipasha's lucky boy?
(laughs) Oh no. Not at all. I don't think anybody can be a lucky boy except John. I respect John a lot and Bipasha is such a great girl. I am really happy for both of them. But I'm also happy for the fact that I got to play her lucky boy in the film.

We are also hearing that you are going to be a part of an R.K. Banner film pretty soon. What's the latest buzz on that?
That's absolutely true. That's been my top priority. We're doing a film for the R.K. Banner and right now we are on the scripting stage. Hopefully, by sometime late next year, after I'm finished with my other film commitments, I will start my film with my home production. We still haven't yet decided who will direct the film but a few names are still in the pipeline.

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B.O. Update: Independence Day holiday boosts business

The Independence Day weekend witnessed the clash of two major releases, BACHNA AE HASEENO and GOD TUSSI GREAT HO, and expectedly the response to both the films was mixed. While BACHNA AE HASEENO opened well at multiplexes [not all plexes though], the response at mini-metros, smaller centres and single screens wasn’t heartening. Beyond big cities, the opening ranged from average to below average. The film hasn’t found all-round appreciation and the business is expected to slide downwards after the initial euphoria subsides.

On the other hand, GOD TUSSI GREAT HO had an average to below average start at multiplexes, but was better at small centres. The reports in a few circuits seem encouraging and the business might show an upward trend at places. Meanwhile, SINGH IS KINNG began its second week with super-strong collections in almost all circuits.

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Bachna Ae Haseeno - Movie Review

BACHNA AE HASEENO is special. Ranbir Kapoor is cast opposite teen deviyaan -- Bipasha Basu, Deepika Padukone, Minissha Lamba. It's produced by a premier production house, the credits read 'Story by Aditya Chopra' and most importantly, it's helmed by Siddharth Raj Anand, who merged form and content so beautifully in SALAAM | NAMASTEY and TA RA RUM PUM. The expectations, therefore, are humungous.

Before we go any further, let's clear a misconception at the very outset. BACHNA AE HASEENO is not inspired by THE BACHELOR [the industry feels so, hence this clarification], but it bears an uncanny resemblance to the yesteryear film TEEN DEVIAN [1965; Dev Anand, Nanda, Kalpana, Simi Grewal] and Telugu film NAA AUTOGRAPH [Raviteja, Bhoomika, Mallika, Gopika, Kanyaka]. Of course, Chopra and the screenplay writer try to be different and any resemblance with any film could be purely coincidental.

Now let's move on! BACHNA AE HASEENO has a great cast, great chemistry amongst actors [so sizzling, it could melt butter], great locations [jaw dropping actually] and some great moments. But all these factors combined together don't make a great film. BACHNA AE HASEENO suffers, to a major extent, due to its screenplay running out of steam in the second hour.

The gist of the story is truly captivating -- the guy is a complete flirt, he wears his heart on his sleeve. Enter three women in different stages of his life. Love is in the air. Two dream of marrying him, but he ditches them and the third, whom he intends marrying, says a blunt 'No' to the offer. Heart-broken, the guy realizes his folly and plans on doing prayashchit. He goes back to the first two women and apologises. Wow! A story to bowl you over indeed!

BACHNA AE HASEENO has splendid moments in the first hour. In fact, the three stories, minus the culmination of course, are beautifully told in the first hour itself. There're some attention-grabbing moments in this hour [details later] and you genuinely feel exhilarated after having watched those portions.

Now to the second hour -- the guy repents for his misdeeds and years later, goes back to the first two women in his life. That's where the problems surface...

From the writing point of view, the first story [Minissha] is given an appropriate and beautiful culmination in the second hour. But the second [Bipasha] and third [Deepika] stories face rough weather. These stories don't work and therefore, colour your judgement on the movie. Like it happens with most Hindi films, the writing is the culprit here as well. It lacks the power to keep you hooked in the second hour.

In a nutshell, BACHNA AE HASEENO could've been the ideal youthful entertainer, occupying the position that JAANE TU... YA JAANE NA enjoys amongst the yuppy crowd. But as things stand now, it's a great looking film with nothing outstanding about it. Strictly okay for a single watch, that's about it!

Meet Raj [Ranbir Kapoor]. He falls in love thrice...

The film talks of three love stories: Raj and Mahi [Minissha], Raj and Radhika [Bipasha], Raj and Gayatri [Deepika]. Different ladyloves at different times in his life. And each of them teach him a little bit about love and a little bit about life, in their own sweet, sexy or sassy way.

Director Siddharth Raj Anand knows the craft too well by now and his handling of the romantic and emotional scenes is worth appreciating. Take the sequence at the airport -- Minissha stands stunned listening to Ranbir's tale of 'conquest', with tears rolling down her cheeks. The silence says it all!

Note the sequence when Ranbir woos Bipasha, but eventually dumps her on the eventful day. It's raining and Bipasha just can't come out of the shock. The silence is deafening! Note yet another tragic end to the love story, when Deepika refuses the wedding proposal from Ranbir. Flashes from the past come alive at this point. It couldn't get better!

Post-interval, Ranbir's story with an already-married Minissha and her husband is equally moving. Ranbir's apology looks convincing and the culmination to this chapter couldn't be better. Ranbir moves on to Bipasha and it's here that the writing begins to go downhill. She's a wounded tigress and no amount of cajoling or apologies from Ranbir would melt her. So far, so good! But the path she uses to teach Ranbir a lesson is weird, sorry ludicrous.

The third story, with Deepika, is written in haste, one presumes. The girl suddenly has a change of heart and wants to marry Ranbir, she even writes to him everyday, not knowing that he's out of town. The culmination to this story is amateurish and one wonders whether the writer was in a tearing hurry to end the movie since the 2-hour mark had already been crossed.

Directorially, Siddharth Raj Anand offers stunning visuals and some really fine performances, but is letdown by the script. Vishal-Shekhar's music is just alright, nothing to rave or rant about. Barring 'Khuda Jaane' and 'Lucky Boy', the remaining songs don't have a lingering effect. Cinematography is a class apart. Besides, the cinematographer gets some spectacular locales and he does complete justice to it. Dialogues are good at times.

Ranbir Kapoor is marvellous. An incredible actor. One will run out of adjectives and personifications describing his performance. Amongst girls, Bipasha Basu stands the tallest. First RACE and now BACHNA AE HASEENO, the actress is finally getting the right roles that do justice to her talent. Also, she looks fab! Minissha doesn't work at the start, but scores in the emotional scenes, especially in the second hour. Deepika is a sore point. Her role isn't convincing and that's the reason why this performance doesn't work. The only consolation is, she looks gorgeous.

Kunal Kapoor is supremely efficient, handling his role with utmost maturity. Hiten Paintal is a revelation, a talent to watch out for. His camaraderie with Ranbir is top notch.

On the whole, BACHNA AE HASEENO has an interesting first half, but a weak second hour spoils the show. At the box-office, thanks to the hype built around the film, the opening weekend should be great, but beyond that, has tough chances of sustaining. Multiplexes at some big centres would be better, but that's no consolation.

2 1/2 - 5

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God Tussi Great Ho - Movie Review

When it comes to escapist cinema, a gifted writer can make his imagination run really wild. Think of a crazy story, come up with outrageous and zany situations, rope in actors who'd look believable in those parts... hey presto, a crazy potboiler is ready to be served.

Rumy Jafry, who has penned some crazy comedies in the past, does just that. He borrows [partly] from BRUCE ALMIGHTY, also [partly] from YEHI HAI ZINDAGI [Sanjeev Kumar] and [partly] uses his imagination to come up with GOD TUSSI GREAT HO. But this khichdi isn't as delicious as one expects it to be.

First, the plusses!

GOD TUSSI GREAT HO has some really interesting moments. At least two sequences -- [i] When a dejected Salman throws the taveez in the air, the taveez reaches God, later God appears in human form and [ii] Salman invents a chair that acts as a lie detector and teaches Sohail Khan a lesson -- are pure magic in terms of writing, in terms of execution, in terms of performance.

Another ace is Salman Khan. The boyish appeal, the mischievous look, the loud-but-lovable act just cannot be overlooked.

But GOD TUSSI GREAT HO isn't as captivating and arresting at times. The potential to come up with an energetic second half are immense in a film like this, but Rumy Jafry's writing is plain mediocre. Besides, the second hour is lengthy, it gets tedious ['Lal Chunariya' song should be deleted right away]. Also, the pre-climax and climax don't sweep you off your feet.

In a nutshell, GOD TUSSI GREAT HO does appeal, but in bits and spurts. Not in totality. An average experience!

At the end of the worst day in his life, Arun [Salman Khan] angrily rages against God for making his life miserable. To his astonishment, God [Amitabh Bachchan] appears before him in human form and endowing Arun with all of His divine powers, challenges Arun to take on the big job and see if he can do it any better.

Arun responds to his newfound powers with childlike zeal and sets off making one decision after another. The love of his life Alia [Priyanka Chopra] is astonished at the 'new' decisive and confident Arun. He thinks he can make the world a happy place by granting everybody their wishes.

But to his horror, this results in unprecedented mayhem. Ultimately, Arun realises that he is only human, and being God is tougher than he thought.

Rumy Jafry has penned several solid entertainers for David Dhawan and the formula looms large all through GOD TUSSI GREAT HO. Rumy rides on myths and comedy to get it right and it really works at times. However, after a point, the writing doesn't spring any surprises. You know exactly what's in store next and that's what bogs the film down.

In terms of impact, the best portions are between Bachchan and Salman, between Salman and Anupam Kher and between Salman and Rajpal Yadav. These tracks charge up the scenario. But how one misses a meatier script in the second hour.

Directorially, Rumy Jafry's work gets easier thanks to the presence of seasoned actors. But he needs to polish his skills as far as technique is concerned. The film could've been stylishly shot. Sajid-Wajid's music is strictly okay. However, the picturisation of songs camouflages the deficiency. Ashok Mehta's cinematography is perfect. The production design/making could've been grand, given the presence of such powerful names in the cast. Special effects lack finesse.

As always, Amitabh Bachchan is competent. But GOD TUSSI GREAT HO belongs to Salman Khan, who seems to be in form this time. Priyanka doesn't match Salman's enthusiasm. Also, why is her look so inconsistent in the film? Sohail Khan is alright.

Anupam Kher is fantastic. Bina Kak is fair. Rukhsaar doesn't get much scope. Rajpal Yadav provides a few laughs. Dalip Tahil is as usual. Upasna Singh is getting typecast. Ditto for Sanjay Mishra.

On the whole, GOD TUSSI GREAT HO is average in merits, providing a few laughs intermittently. At the box-office, the holiday weekend should benefit the film. But beyond the weekend, the journey could be uneven. However, single screens should fare better in the Hindi belt.

2/5

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Shilpa Shetty's Big Boss Has A New Season And A New House

10,000 square feet of land, 84 days, 32 cameras, 14 contestants being filmed 24 hours a day and a brand new house to live in. Shilpa Shetty's Big Boss is coming back with a bang for the second season. Check out these exclusive photos of the contestants new home. Looks like they'll be living large!!

Big Boss Entrance

Entrance Interior

Sitting Area

Kitchen

Dining Room

Gym

Miss Big Boss herself, Shilpa Shetty

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Abishek Bachchan and Priyanka Chopra in 'Drona'

Two of Bollywood's biggest stars are coming to theaters near you very soon! The sexy Abhishek Bachchan and Priyanka Chopra are set to release "Drona" - a fantasy action adventure film that will be the first of it's kind in India! The stars have been made over and are sporting looks that are fresh and totally beyond-belief!

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Madhuri Dixit's Unforgettable Moment

One has always heard of the heart skipping a beat, but no one has ever seen a 'heartbeat'. But one look at this lady will surely tell you what a heartbeat really looks like. No wonder then, she is aptly called the eternal 'Dhak Dhak' girl of Bollywood. We are indeed talking about Madhuri Dixit Nene, whose million dollar smile has now become more famous than Mona Lisa! She was, is and will remain to reign as one of the finest actors that Bollywood has ever produced.

When the charisma of this talent gets combined with lightening performance of someone as gigantic as the Big B, the result is nothing short of livewire dynamite, which is exactly what the residents of LA and San Francisco witnessed at The Unforgettable Tour in US. Joining them were Abhishek, Ash and Preity who took the stage by storm.

In a candid conversation, Madhuri Dixit Nene shares her experience at 'The Unforgettable Tour' and talks about her other first ever experiences.

How was the experience of performing at The Unforgettable Tour?
'The Unforgettable Tour' and Wizcraft gave me an opportunity to perform with Mr. Amitabh Bachchan, Aishwarya and Abhishek on the same stage. LA and San Francisco shows have been overwhelming and I am looking forward to visiting other cities and reaching out to my fans. I have worked with Aishwarya and Preity before and that has been great. Also, there is a great comfort level in our team and I am sure it is going to be an unforgettable experience.

First Stage Performance....
I was 3 ½ years old when I first performed on stage. It was a small portion of Kathak.

First rehearsal for a World Tour...
It was in 1991. I was on a world tour with Anil Kapoor... and the world tour happened after our movies Tezaab and Ram Lakhan were a hit at the box office.

First Amitabh Bachchan movie that you saw....
In theatre, it was Amar Akbar Anthony. My husband didn't watch many Hindi movies during his stay here. But when I asked him about the only Hindi movie that he watched I was amazed and surprised by the answer I got. Coincidently, Amar Akbar Anthony is the first and the only Hindi movie that my husband watched.

It was an Unforgettable Moment for me when I heard this.

First time you faced the camera....
It was for my movie Abodh. I dint know how a camera looks likes or a set looks like. I was leaning towards the wall and it was only until my hand passed through the wall; I realized that it was a set. Until then I had not experienced or faced camera ever

Your First Song....
It was for my movie Abodh again. We had to shoot for a bhajan at a temple... Yes, that was the first song that I shot for.

First time you got mobbed...
It was after my movie Tezaab. I was at the Mumbai airport when few youngsters were whispering amongst themselves and I caught the word Mohini. One of them asked, "You are Mohini from the film Tezaab, Right!!" I was very excited when I heard that.

First Fan Mail....
I had received lot of letter after my movie Tezaab... I was amazed by the response. This was the first time I realized that I am popular or getting popular.

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Ranbir, Deepika and Minissha play 10 Ka Dum with Salman Khan

These days, as and when a new film opens across cinema halls every Friday, you have the cast and crew making its presence felt on various reality shows to promote the film. After all, the number of eyeballs which T.V. manages to catch is unparalleled.

With Yash Raj Films' Bachna Ae Haseeno set to open across cinema halls this week (Aug 15), the film's cast (comprising of Ranbir Kapoor, Deepika Padukone and Minissha Lamba) shot for a special episode of Salman Khan's game show 10 Ka Dum.


The episode promises to be complete fun as the trio indulges in a lot of masti and dhamaal with apna Sallu bhai. What's more, whoever feels that two actresses cannot be friends need to check out the camaraderie shared between Deepika and Minissha. It was good to see Minissha egg Deepika to give her best smile for the camera and later Deepika too ensured that Minissha did not feel left out while she and Ranbir made a star couple on the show. Even Ranbir showered equal attention on both his leading ladies. While Bipasha Basu was certainly missed on the show, Salman along with the Bachna Ae Haseeno gang literally brought the house down with his antics.

As for how much prize money the trio actually managed to win, one would have to wait and watch the special episode. However, going by the expressions on their faces, they sure seemed to have won a significant amount of money. This fun-filled episode airs on Sony Entertainment Television on Aug 15 at 9pm IST.

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The Unforgettable Tour Diary: Day 24 - It's time for Olympic cheers and costume goofs

- This time around, the word 'Unforgettable' was more suited for the stars themselves than the audience. Reason? News of Abhinav Bindra winning an Olympic Gold spread like a wild fire and though everyone out there was elated, the man who was seen celebrating most was none other than Amitabh Bachchan. He wasn't making any effort whatsoever to conceal his excitement and was more than vocal in letting everyone know about him being overjoyed at India's moment of pride!

- Talking about Olympics, apart from performing on stage (obviously) and blogging (obviously...again!), Amitabh Bachchan is constantly cued in on all the recent happenings at the biggest sporting event. He is watching the sport in all the time available to him and is not just aware about everything interesting which is happening on a day to day basis but also well versed with the medal tally and the works. He was as excited as a child the moment news broke about Bindra winning Gold Medal for the country.

- Meanwhile on stage, he was doing his part and winning his audience time and again. A cast was spell on Chicago crowd as Big B continued to pull something or the other out of his magic hat. Hit dialogues from his yesteryear films, trademark dance step of 'Jahaan Teri Yeh Nazar Hai' [Kaalia], the title track from Don - everything just added on to spellbind the audience.

- For the first time in the US leg of the tour, there was no Madhuri Dixit to join the stars. However, youngsters took it on them along with Big B to ensure that her absence was compensated for by their bravura act. It was a small venue which could accommodate 9000 people but the buzz is that an additional 2000 paved their way into the venue. Yet another night. Yet another event. And some more magic!

- The venue boasted of huge production values and as stated by quite a few members from the audience as well as promoters, the city had never witnessed any Bollywood show like this before. LED screens were all over with special electronic curtains creating a surreal feel. Wizcraft, people behind 'Unforgettable', were in their complete elements here and they put their Commonwealth Games experience to full use here. The stars are especially excited about the man named Paul who has come up with a fantabulous job while playing the role of an outstanding technician.

- Talking of people behind the stage, Vishal can't ever forget a lady by the name of Noreen! It could have been one messy Sunday but Noreen ensured that there was no letdown whatsoever. Read on to know what really happened!

- Apparently, Vishal's costumes went missing and there was no time to launch a search. Reason? The show had to begin at 7:00 PM and it was already 6:20 PM. Stationed at his hotel, Vishal had to get something on to suit the mood of the stage and performance. This is where Noreen came to his rescue! She took him to a nearby mall and used her fashion experience to the fullest. In 20 minutes flat, she along with Vishal ran from one store to another, picked up stuff, didn't bother trying them out, dumped them into one huge bag and rushed to the venue. Of course, it was a fun of a different kind which Vishal got out of the entire experience.

- Meanwhile buzz continues to be high all over the USA, courtesy an aggressive promotion and publicity which is happening in New York - the epicenter of all the action. At Times Square, every 5 minutes there is an advertisement of 'Unforgettable' which has been playing throughout the tour duration. Now that's quite a high for the troupe since this prominent advertising junction has been witness to some of the top international stars enjoying this kind of coverage.

- After all the weekend fun, it is time to chill out, relax, watch some films and hang out in general for all the stars. From here, it is going to be Independence Day celebrations with New York being a witness to an 'Unforgettable' concert slated to take place on 15th August.

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Priyanka shoots for Salman's show

Bollywood actress Priyanka Chopra has shot a special episode of Salman Khan's television game show "Dus Ka Dum", brushing aside reports of differences having cropped up between them.
Priyanka appeared on the show along with her good friend and " Chamku " co-star Bobby Deol. The actress had reportedly refused to appear on "Dus Ka Dum" along with beau Harman Baweja before the release of their film "Love Story 2050".

Priyanka said the shoot was done in the early hours of Wednesday and that she had a great time with Salman, her co-star in forthcoming film "God Tussi Great Ho".

"We shot the episode from 1 a.m. to 4 a.m. I had a tough time keeping my eyes open. But Salman entertained us all through. He played a double role - He was both the host and the hero of one of the films I was promoting."

Asked about the rumoured cold war between them, Priyanka said: "When did I ever say I had any problems with Salman? We make a fantastic on-screen pair. We proved it in 'Mujhse Shaadi Karoge'. And now again in 'God Tussi Great Ho' we rock together. Amitji (Amitabh Bachchan) plays god, by the way. As for Salman, he's always fun on the sets.

"He had me in splits during the shooting. He had Bobby and me entertained throughout 'Dus Ka Dum'. And yes we both won a lot of money."

While "God Tussi..." is set for an Aug 15 release, "Chamku" is to hit theatres Aug 22.

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Aamir's GHAJINI hairdo, a fashion statement!

Amitabh and his centre-parting 'Vijay' hairstyle (for almost a decade!), Salman Khan's TERE NAAM 'Radhey' look and John Abraham's 'Kabeer' tresses (JISM and DHOOM) all became highly popular with the youth and sporting them became a fashion statement.

Amongst this craze there was this perfectionist actor doing his own thing little things. Yes, it's Aamir Khan that we are referring to, who has this knack of publicizing the look of his upcoming projects well in advance, so that the people get used to his get up. Be it the MANGAL PANDEY look with long flowing manes and whiskers or the TAARE ZAMEEN PAR 'Mohawk' cum punk hairdo, Aamir made it a point to be seen in all public appearances, events, functions and even in advertisements in the mentioned style. And now with his next film coming up, Aamir can be seen everywhere with his GHAJINI look, almost bald pate with injury channels running across his skull. Be it the Samsung mobile ad, the premier of his nephew's JAANE TU...YA JAANE NA, the DVD launch of TAARE ZAMEEN PAR or even the infamous Katrina Kaif birthday party!

However this time Aamir's hairstyle is being lapped up by his fans and youth who can be seen on streets, shopping malls, college and sport events. Maybe the hot humid climate too is helping the cause! So, it definitely augers well for the November 28 release.

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Some Unforgettable pics

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"Shah Rukh and I are no longer friends" - Salman Khan

Salman Khan on the big fight and his equations with Shah Rukh Khan, Katrina Kaif, Akshay Kumar and God!

Since your film, God Tussi Great Ho, is releasing this Friday, it'll be interesting to know in which situation do you say the film's title?
I say that in each and every situation. No matter what happens I always thank God. Agar yeh nahi bologe toh aap nashukr ho (if you don't say this then you're thankless). God has given me so much and I just have to appreciate it.

What kind of a relationship do you share with God?
(He blows a kiss to the sky) That's my rapport with God. I talk to him all the time. I always get my answers from him. Sure, there have been instances when he doesn't listen to me and doesn't give me what I ask for but he does that only when I don't deserve it. I've observed that whenever God hasn't given me what I asked for, it's for the best.

You do a lot of comedy films, what is it that clicks with the audience about your comic style?
I think it's the sincerity and the person's personality that the audience relates to.

Which is your all time favourite comic film?
Andaaz Apna Apna. I've only seen the whole thing once but whenever I happen to catch it on television I end up being glued to it.

Is it true that there is going to be a sequel to Andaaz Apna Apna?
That's what I hear. Aamir (Khan) wants to do it. It all depends on our director Rajkumar Santoshi. I'm game for it.

You come across as a very warm and affable host on 10 Ka Dum, how do you make sure to be always in a good mood?
It's very simple. If you come to my house and you are being nice to me so why wouldn't I be nice to you? I don't fake anything. If I'm not in a good mood then that too shows on screen. But bad mood doesn't mean that I've to behave badly. I try and be a good host.

But you're not comfortable with women hugging you?
(Shrugs) They come in, they are very sweet to me and I don't mind it if they hug me. That's their way of showing affection and I respect that.

But are you a hugging person?
Nope. I'm not an exhibitionist, not a demonstrative person. No hugs for me.

But you do know how to throw the most talked about party?
It was Katrina Kaif's party. Maybe it'll be talked about for decades to come but definitely not by me. I'm not going to speak about it.

But was there a fight with Shah Rukh Khan?
Yeah.

What led to the fight?
Have you ever known me to speak about anybody? Whatever happened is between me and Shah Rukh. It's personal.

Is Shah Rukh your friend?
Not anymore. I'm not going to deny that there are issues between us. I'm a primitive man born in today's time. I can't fake anything. If there is a problem then I'm not going to deny it. We've had problems before also but this time I don't think we can sort them out. We are two different people. Our values and way of thinking are different. I don't think we can be friends. I think it's better to declare that then put on a fake façade of being friends and back-biting each other.

But there is a lot of shared history between you and SRK, didn't he stay at your house in his struggling days?
(Smiles) Yeah but I've only been to his house twice in my life. The first time I went on my own and the second time was when he came and took me to his house for a chat.

The buzz is that professional rivalry between the two of us especially with regards, your respective shows, Kya Aap Paanchvi Paas Se Tez Hain and 10 Ka Dum, led to the fight?
No, I don't think it's because my show is doing better. I don't think he's that insecure. The reason of the fight is personal.

Is it because he refused to act in your home production, Main Aur Mrs Khanna?
Let me make it clear once and for all that Main Aur Mrs Khanna was never offered to SRK. I was always doing the film. It's just that when Shah Rukh used to come to my home to ask me to appear on Kaun Banega Crorepati and Om Shanti Om, I just mentioned it to him that it'll be nice if he has the time to listen to the story. That's all.

It seems you and Aamir Khan are the latest best friends. You're gifting him paintings etc?
Aamir and I have always got along. I made his portrait and gifted to him. What's the big deal?

There are rumours that you and Akshay Kumar share cold vibes too. True?
No, no, not at all. Akshay is a colleague. He's a nice guy. He is very hardworking and keeps to himself. Akshay will work hard to bring himself up and not to bring someone else down.

Every second day there are stories of you and Katrina Kaif either breaking up or making up. What's the status?
First of all, I want to know who are all these friends, sources close to me and my family who speak on our behalf? My friends will never speak like that about me or anyone close to me because they will give their life for me. Obviously it's someone who is insecure, jealous and friendly to the press. Maybe they are someone else's friends.

That doesn't answer my question.
What do you want to know?

Just tell me are you and Katrina together?
Yeah.

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Why don't you get married?

Here's what happened when host Salman Khan invited Singh Is Kinng stars Akshay Kumar and Katrina Kaif on his show 10 Ka Dum.

According to an insider, "The proceedings of the show went quite smoothly, given the history of cold vibes between Sallu and Akki. The combination of Katrina with her real life hero and reel life hero was quite lethal but ultimately it all went off well, minus a few hiccups."

The insider continues, "Sallu was his usual witty and sarcastic self. Akki took all the jibes in his stride and when he felt the time was right, he made a few of his own. At one point Akki asked the host, 'Why don't you want to get married to your beautiful girlfriend Kat?'

"Salman who has never admitted to his relationship with Kaif, didn't like this public outing. But Kumar didn't stop here. He went on to tell the host that he has a nice girl like Kat and he should treat her properly. Then he added the final blow by saying Kat was young and Sallu was getting old he should think hard about settling down as one shouldn't be alone at his age," said the source.

The eyewitness continues, "Sallu was clearly annoyed by Akshay's remarks but he surprisingly kept his cool. He got back by making cracks and jokes at the Khiladi's expense."
Katrina appeared shocked at Akshay's comments but didn't say much. Akshay won Rs 10 lakh and donated it to a charity of his choice.

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Imran Khan's Next - 'Kidnap' Movie Trailer

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RDB, Snoop Dogg and Akshay Kumar in 'Singh is Kinng' Video

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Deepika Padukone spreads her 'black magic' on Maxim cover this month

"The blacker the berry, the sweeter it is"

Whoever wrote that saying would've definitely replaced 'sweet' with 'hot' if he had seen this sizzling picture of Deepika Padukone in her sexy black dress.

Deepika has done full justice to the colour black on the cover of the latest edition of the men's magazine Maxim. To describe her, the word 'Stunning' seems as if we are showing a torch before the sun!

Having said so, let us also tell you that there's something about this snap that really transforms the lookers into hookers! If the cover was anything to go by, the inside 'content' will never make you feel 'content', thus defying the saying 'Never judge a book by its cover'!

One should admit that Deeps has never looked so ravishing before and those eyes are mesmerizing as ever!

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Priyanka Chopra on her two releases this month

In her two releases in August (God Tussi Great Ho and Chamku within two weeks), Priyanka continues her quest to look physically different for each part.

"Not that I planned for God Tussi Great Ho and Chamku to come one after another. But fortunately I look very different in both. In God Tussi Great Ho, I'm dressed in shorts and jeans. I wear a nose-ring throughout the film…a very hip and 'today' thing to do. In Chamku, I'm a school teacher. So I dress in a saree."

She is all gooey-eyed about her Chamku co-star. "Bobby and I go back a long way. He and Sunnyji are a part of my initial phase in Mumbai. Sunnyji did my first film The Hero with me when I was a nobody. He didn't have to. But he encouraged a newcomer. I'll never forget that. As for Bobby, we've done two films together before. I'd do anything for the Deols' banner, Vijeta Films, anytime."

Is that why she agreed to be in Chamku although it's an out-and-out Bobby vehicle? "It's Bobby's film. But I've a substantial role. I am the shoulder he cries on. Sometimes it's good to be a shoulder instead of shouldering a film," she chuckles.

As for Salman, "We really had a good time shooting God Tussi Great Ho. That sense of enjoyment shows up on screen."

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Katrina Kaif on the cover of Grazia

It seems that after the reign of Kareena Kapoor as the undisputed cover girl over the last few months, it's going to rain Katrina Kaif ('Kats' as we would like to call her). It's a clear case of the double K's (Kareena Kapoor and Katrina Kaif).

Kats has now kick-started the month of August by being the 'pink' dressed cover-girl of 'Grazia', the newly launched style magazine. This issue sees Katrina getting candid enough to say that she maintains a pretty non-egoistic view when she chooses a film. This angel in disguise also tells the readers about what she does during her free time. Liar! Liar! Kats, with a deluge of films in your kitty, do you really get free time?

While on Kats, do not miss on her definition of fashion and a fitting testimony about her from the New-Age guru of fashion! To find out who 'that' is and more insights on Katrina Kaif, you know what to do! Simply graze yourself with the latest copy of Grazia.

Lastly, do let us know what you think of this angel in disguise!

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Shilpa meets her hero!

Shilpa Shetty was a state level volleyball player, and a complete sports fan.

She'd take keen interest in all games.

The actress remembers watching Carl Lewis's heroic win in the Olympics and recently she met the athlete.

"I was at the Qatar Golf Open tournament earlier this year and had the opportunity to meet him. He was very humble and down-to-earth.

I couldn't believe I was in the same room as this legend.

He's a true hero and his life as an athlete is so inspiring.

I still remember watching him run in the Olympics and cheering for him. It was a special moment meeting Carl Lewis," says Shilpa.

The event also saw the likes of Anna Kournikova, Australian singer and actress Natalie Imbruglia and actor Omar Sharif.

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Akshay Kumar at a special screening of 'Singh Is Kinng' with children from Dilkhush school

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"Ranbir and I are similar minded" - Bipasha Basu

While most Bollywood stars do everything they can to appear cool, professional and squeaky-clean, diligently concealing all their nasty little secrets, Bipasha Basu appears wholly unconcerned by controversy. Ever keen to talk about her breakdowns, her highs and lows, her fantasies and her boyfriend John Abraham, many would say she's built a career on titillating public confession. But she's also an increasingly fine and award-winning performer. It's another story that she hasn't won many awards but she definitely has won rewards even for her special appearances for lighting a 'beedi' or being a part of 'phoonk de'. It all goes to show that when Bips is on screen, she is on fire. No wonder she's hot! Bollywood Hungama's Devansh Patel gets ready for some fiery Q & A with Bipasha Basu.

Statutory Warning: The contents are too hot to handle.

Hi Bipasha, long time no see. Where are you now a days?
Yeah that's what! I go in hibernation when I am filming and when my film is about to release I pop out of my igloo.

You are no more an Ajnabee in Bollywood...
I better not be Devansh (ha ha ha)

...and you've made a mark for yourself which your filmography proves. But is it time to tell all the leading ladies, Bachna Ae Haseeno?
(Laughs) No yaar. I am too lost in my own space to say that. My survival technique is that the audience loves me and I have a direct interaction with them. I guess, I'm liked and that's why I'm here.

And the other interesting aspect of Bachna Ae Haseeno is also the fact that you are the senior most and highly experienced from the lot. As a teacher, what did you learn from the new bunch of students?
They are hardly students. You know what happens. When I started off acting I had come with no experience in the films, but all these new comers are actually not new comers because they come with so much of preparation for being in films that they end up knowing more than what I've learnt in the last seven years. So they are as experienced as me and a person like Ranbir, he knows way too much for sure.

Your last film with Yash Raj productions was two years ago, Dhoom 2. So how did two years after Yash Raj manage to rope you in for this particular role? Why not any other new comer?
Well, I guess the right casting is very important in any film and when I heard the narration of this film, I just knew that Radhika is the part that I want to do and that is what they called me for. So it was like bang on! I couldn't argue much over it because I fitted the casting and at the same time it was a challenge to play the role. When you see the film, you'll come to know that there is something endearing about Radhika. I've loved my character.

I have to say this. But it's quite unlucky for John that he is not the lucky boy in this film, it's Ranbir Kapoor. Did it make the 25-year-old Ranbir uncomfortable while filming romantic and intimate scenes with a 29-year-old Bipasha in the film?
No, not really because we are similar minded people and at the end of the day you're an actor. You've come to do your job and you do it. It really helps on the contrary because when you have some kind of an equation with your co-star and you're on great talking terms and a friend, then the chemistry is better as it shows on screen, rather than working with a person you don't get along with. Age has nothing to do with it.

You've already won the hearts of thousands by winning the Race in the U.K. Will Bachna Ae Haseeno win the race in similar fashion too?
I do wish that Bachna Ae Haseeno is widely watched because it is actually a very nice and an easy film to watch. It's a kind of film where we talk about and celebrate love, which is an emotion that everyone can easily identify with, and especially today's youth will be easily able to identify with because it could be their story too. There are other USP's to the film too. The music is great; there are good looking people, great styling, excellent locations, and above all a fantastic story, which I think is a winner at the end of the day. It's a story that you follow.

You've been a part of films which can't be tagged as commercial such as Corporate. Any plans of switching to your corporate days.
I have Pankh coming up which is considered to be a little off the commercial track and I have another Bengali film that I've done which is definitely considered to be parallel cinema. So I have a mixed bag. I keep on doing things that I like and it doesn't specifically have to be in one direction. I like to keep a balance between commercial and realistic films and that's the way I like it. I don't want to be a crusader of realistic films neither do I want to be this doll in commercial films. I'd like a mix of both.

After Dhan Dhana Dhan Goal and No Smoking in which you did a special appearance, any plans of working with John Abraham again.
We will see if something interests us. We working together is never a plan you know. We really don't plan it. Our way of thinking is very different and our choice of cinema is different. So if we really agree on one thing we will do it but I think the best thing to do is to work less together (laughs). I believe in that.

I don't know whether you know this or not but August 2 will now be officially celebrated as a Bollywood Day in the U.S. after the mega success of the Unforgettable Tour. Are you shocked?
For a change, I am. But I don't know. It's quite a strange thing. I don't even understand friendship day, mothers day, fathers day, etc. For me, friends and parents are forever. You cannot deny a relationship and definitely when you talk of Bollywood, it is my ambition, my work and my work place. I cannot deny it on every other day, so I don't know what to do on one particular day like a Bollywood Day. If there is a festival organized around Bollywood worldwide, it's an interesting concept.

Are you particular as far as screen space is concerned when you are a part of a big film like Dhoom 2 with big actors and a film like Bachna Ae Haseeno where the only big actor is 'you'?
No. Sometimes people do crap when you are three hours in the film and some person comes in for twenty minutes and steals the thunder. So screen space has definitely never been my outlook. If you see my work profile, when you do multistarrer, the fun is that they are such a number of good exciting talents all put together in one film. It's just that how you leave your mark behind which matters. There is no competition. It's what you do is important even for a few minutes. Length is not an issue.

Who is Radhika?
Radhika is a girl who is a dancer by profession. She is a dancer in Shiamak Davar's troupe. She aspires to be an actress. So she is today's modern and an independent girl, has a clean heart and believes in romance and being in love. She falls in love with Raj. The film is actually a journey of all these four characters how they grow to be what because of love.

Any other song, which you have on your caller tune besides 'Lucky Boy'?
(Laughs) Right now 'Lucky Boy' is the favourite song of lot of boys. I like the title track of 'Bachna Ae Haseeno'. I do like 'Ahista Ahista' a lot because it's got a new flavor of romance. 'Khuda Jaane' is a typical romantic ballet. I like all the songs. Even 'Small Town Girl' is different as it has bhangra beats and a situational song and Jogi Mahi, which is very traditional. So it's a mix bag. Look, I covered the entire album!

We are nearing our Independence Day in ten days. Any message for all the Indians across the globe?
Independence Day is highly significant for all Indians, whether they are in India or living abroad because it is for this day that our country was free and we could take up what we wanted to. Today, we are who we are because of August 15. I just fell that we should be patriotic towards our country and contribute in the progress of our country in which ever possible way. This year I am going to spread a little bit of happiness by releasing our film Bachna Ae Haseeno on the Independence Day.

Why should one go and watch Bachna Ae Haseeno on August 15?
I think Bachna Ae Haseeno should be seen by any person who celebrates love, who thinks that love is important, who wants to fall in love and who is in love.

Being a non smoker, you've somehow got attracted to beedi's and cigarettes. When are we going to see you next jalaile a beedi or phoonk de?
(laughs) Nicely worded. As far as the song is concerned, I am right now pretty happy with my 'Lucky Boy' yaar. I'm done with the smoke for the time being.

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Mallika wins court case against her tenant

Her last release Ugly Aur Pagli may not have taken the B.O. by storm but that doesn't mean that Mallika Sherawat won't continue to be in the news. The latest is that the Bollywood bombshell has won a civil court to get her rented property in North Delhi vacated from a tenant who had not paid his rent dues.

The property located at Dr. Mukherjee Nagar area of Delhi was given on rent by Mallika to Anuj Kumar Aggarwal (proprietor of M/S Career Plus) through a lease in January, 1998 with the condition that there would be an annual increase of 20 per cent in rent.

In a suit filed by Mallika's brother Vikram Lamba sometime in 2007, it was alleged that the enhanced rent was not paid by Aggarwal and hence a decree of possession was sought besides recovering the arrears rent. However, the court dismissed her plea stating that there was not enough evidence to substantiate the same.

Now having won the case, Mallika will surely heave a sigh of relief.

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Sanju Bhai as never before on Sajid Superstars

'Sajid Superstars' is only two episodes down (Riteish Deshmukh, Anil Kapoor) and is already creating quite some excitement amongst those who love to watch their Bollywood idols chatting and getting really naughty on the small screen. As Sajid Khan gets talking to Sanjay Dutt in the upcoming episode of 'Sajid Superstar', at Bollywood Buzz we bring to you some EXCLUSIVE tidbits on what to expect from this weekend's episode.

- The show is meant to be a candid take on affairs and the one with Sanjay Dutt is going to be no different. In a heart to heart chat, he speaks about the time spent in jail over the years gone by and how he has come out stronger after each and every stint. He also talks about his drug history and how even at this age, he is back to body building with a vengeance.

- In one of the lighter moments on the show, Sanju baba discloses that his driver's name is, hold your breath (literally), 'Paad'! No wonder, when he is being driven around in the city, the car windows are always found to be down!

- In what is expected to be the highlight of the show, Sanjay Dutt gets emotional about his estranged relationship with Sanjay Gupta. He bares all about what went wrong, without really going hammers and tongs on the issue.

- Since the show is supposed to be emotional, catty, bitchy as well as a little naughty, Sajid gives Sanjay Dutt an assignment. An assignment where Sanjay Dutt has to do some 'sit-up comedy' by cracking a joke while being seated on the couch. As would be there for everyone to see in the episode, Sanjay Dutt does such a great job that Sajid ends up giving him a perfect 10 for his act.

- Getting into the past, Sanjay Dutt turns nostalgic about his appearance in a film called Khatron Ka Khiladi. He recollects that how director T. Rama Rao wanted him to get some 'shark' in his expressions. Startled at the demand of the situation, he went on to ask him many a times that how he could get a 'shark' expression. As it turned out, in his own accent, Rama Rao was actually asking for 'shock' while speaking it out as 'shark'. To add fun to the proceedings, Sanjay Dutt even goes on to act out the entire scene in exactly the same manner that Rama Rao did while explaining it to him!

- Of course a Sajid Khan show is bound to have a scandalous angle to it. Well, a scandal is ready to be unearthed this weekend as well with Sanjay Dutt confessing about the number of women he has been with. While Sajid asks him to pick an option between 0-50, 50-100, 100-150 and so on, Dutt goes on to actually make his pick.

What did Sanjay Dutt say on record? Well, to know more, tune in to Sajid's Superstars at 10:00 PM, Saturday on the newly launched channel COLORS.

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Salman brings together Akshay and Katrina on Dus Ka Dum

People simply just can't stop raving about this pair. Individually they are an obvious scene-stealer and together they are more than dynamite! We are indeed talking about the superhit duo of Akshay 'Khiladi' Kumar and the Katrina 'Ravishing' Kaif! After having delivered a series of hit films, this pair will now be seen in Anees Bazmee's Singh Is Kinng. And if the initial reports are anything to go by, then, their magic is all set to work overtime in this film as well.

The good news is that now you can experience the magic of this duo at the convenience of your small screen. Katrina and Akshay will be seen in the superhit game show 'Dus Ka Dum' and be hosted by Salman Khan. In fact, Sallu himself called Akshay and asked him to come on the show with Katrina Kaif, as a part of the promotion for the film Singh Is Kinng. The episode was shot yesterday at a suburban studio. And those who have seen the shoot just cannot stop wagging their tongues about the amazing onscreen chemistry that Akki shares with Kats.

Way to go Sallu!!!

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B.O. update: Unprecedented, unparalleled, unheard of start for 'SIK'

The much-awaited SINGH IS KINNG has arrived like a thunderstorm. The craze for the film was evident last night, when paid previews across the nation were performed and the response was electrifying. Friday morning too opened to an overwhelming response. The morning and noon show collections everywhere, in Punjab, Rajasthan, C.P. Berar, Delhi-U.P., Nizam, Bengal, everywhere has been terrific. The distributors of all these circuits personally spoke to this writer and each of them was ecstatic, jumping with joy.

SINGH IS KINNG has had the widest release ever for a Hindi film. It has opened at 1700 screens worldwide [as per Studio 18], 1400 in India and 300 in Overseas. The opening weekend, as things stand now, should be in the range of Rs. 23cr. to Rs. 25 cr. nett in India and the first week should close at Rs. 42 cr. to Rs. 45 cr. nett in India. All signs of a Blockbuster!

Meanwhile, the film had a stupendous start in U.K. last night, when paid previews were held. The film collected close to £ 60,000 on Thursday night. Fabulous!

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Singh Is Kinng - Movie Review

Just a word of caution before you watch this film: SINGH IS KINNG is not for the intellectuals or those pretending to be one. It's not for the hard-nosed critics either.

Now read on…

Vipul Shah. Anees Bazmee. Akshay Kumar. Katrina Kaif. Four names for whom success has become a habit. That makes SINGH IS KINNG the most awaited movie of the season. Must add, the wait was worth it!

You know the rules when you watch a hardcore entertainer: Just don't look for logic. If you do, too bad for you, for you would never enjoy a film of this genre and more specifically, SINGH IS KINNG.

Anees Bazmee's films are very high on entertainment. The plotline may be paper-thin, perhaps ludicrous and farcical, but when did Bazmee ever promise a SCHINDLER'S LIST or a SAVING PRIVATE RYAN? SINGH IS KINNG works because it delivers what it promises: Full on entertainment!

Bazmee has the knack of making immensely watchable fares that cater to the aam junta. SINGH IS KINNG isn't a laughathon in entirety. Comedy, romance, action and drama, everything is well synchronised in those 2.10 hours here.

But, wait, SINGH IS KINNG isn't a foolproof product. It has its share of flaws, the turn of events aren't captivating at times, but SINGH IS KINNG moves so fast and packs in so much, there's no time to think or analyze.

The final word? SINGH IS KINNG is a delicious and scrumptious pav-bhaji served in the finest cutlery. Your taste buds are sure to relish it... and ask for more!

Lakhan Singh aka Lucky [Sonu Sood] is the King of the Australian underworld, accompanied by his associates [played by Javed Jaffrey, Neha Dhupia, Manoj Pahwa, Yashpal Sharma, Kamal Chopra and Sudhanshu Pande]. Far away, in a small village in Punjab, where Lucky was born, there exists someone more notorious than him - Happy Singh [Akshay Kumar].

The village is fed up of Happy's magnanimity, which has resulted in a number of hilariously disastrous situations. Out of desperation, they decide to send him on a long trip [that will keep him out of the village for a while!] to bring Lucky back to Punjab, as his despicable deeds were maligning their image in Australia.

The happy-go-lucky bumpkin, taking his mission a bit too seriously, embarks on his journey, accompanied by his friend, Rangeela [Om Puri], who hates Happy for dragging him into it.

The high point of his journey is his chance meeting with Sonia [Katrina Kaif], with whom he falls in love, but upon reaching his destination, things take a precarious turn as he runs into a series of comic misadventures, leaving him penniless. He is fortunate to find warmth and affection in an elderly lady [Kirron Kher].

In a strange turn of events, an attempt on Lucky's life is foiled by a well-intentioned Happy, who fights off the attackers by risking his own life. Following the altercation, Lucky lands up in hospital paralyzed and Happy, unexpectedly, finds the tables turned on him when he is expected to assume the role of the new King.

Few minutes into the film and you know that SINGH IS KINNG is a lavish spectacle that's high on entertainment. Sonu Sood chasing a gora assassin at the very start or minutes later, Akshay chasing a hen - SINGH IS KINNG starts with gusto.

And Bazmee doesn't let you wear your thinking caps all through the first hour. From India to Egypt to Australia, from the comforts of his home in Punjab, to the humble abode of a woman selling flowers in Sydney [Kirron Kher], SINGH IS KINNG involves you in the journey.

And then Akshay becomes the King. Oh, how he becomes the King is equally hilarious. The sequence at the hospital [Sonu Sood is diagnosed with a weird disorder] is simply hilarious. There's a twist in the tale at the intermission point and the second hour, therefore, shifts gears - it changes from kabhi funny, kabhi drama to a prem kahani.

It's smooth sailing till there's another twist towards the pre-climax [wouldn't like to reveal it, since it would act as a spoiler]. But, frankly, the film could've done without this track. The narrative, thankfully, is back on tracks soon after.

Anees Bazmee has a flair for writing great entertainers that work big time with the masala-loving junta. If you've loved NO ENTRY and WELCOME, you'd love SINGH IS KINNG too. This time, Bazmee shares the writing credits with Suresh Nair and the duo come up with some real wacky episodes. In terms of production design, this is Bazmee's most lavish fare so far. It's a grandiose product.

Pritam's music is already popular and it compliments the goings-on completely. 'Bhootni Ke', 'Jee Karda' and the title track stand out, while 'Teri Ore' is easy on the nerves. Ben Nott and Sanjay Gupta's cinematography is top notch.

Akshay Kumar takes rapid strides with SINGH IS KINNG. Sure, you've seen him in comic fares time and again and perhaps, there might be a doubt, Will he carry it off yet again? Oh yes, he does! There's no saturation point as far as this actor is concerned. He holds your attention in every sequence, irrespective of how strong the scene is, and that's the biggest compliment for any actor. SINGH IS KINNG without Akki is like an ocean without marine life. Akshay rules!

The camera loves Katrina Kaif and it shows in SINGH IS KINNG too. She looks bewitching and enacts her part with tremendous confidence. Kirron Kher is superb and so is Om Puri. Terrific performances! They compliment Akki so well. Ranvir Shorey is first-rate. Sonu Sood is another actor who's finally getting his due in Hindi films. Javed Jaffrey's character works big time till he does a somersault in the pre-climax. Neha Dhupia is engaging. The nok-jhonk between Sudhanshu Pandey and Yashpal Sharma is perfect. Manoj Pahwa is good.

On the whole, SINGH IS KINNG lives up to the hype and hoopla. Want a joyride without taxing your brains? Board the SINGH IS KINNG wagon. At the box-office, the film will fetch a hurricane-like start. The paid previews, the opening weekend, the first week business, everything will be record-shattering. Notwithstanding the new oppositions in the weeks to come, SINGH IS KINNG will rule the hearts of the aam junta [whose verdict matters the most] as also the box-office, proving a record holder in the final tally. Blockbuster Hit!

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Hollywood gets Kareena!

Last Thursday, TOI had hinted that Kareena Kapoor (off the sets of Sajid Nadiadwala’s Kambakht Ishq in LA) was meeting top Hollywood executives and discussing offers with them.

Today we confirm the sexy actress has signed a film opposite Phantom, Mummy and Titanic actor Billy Zane for an undisclosed amount. The film is tentatively titled Chamera and will be directed by Daniel Silverman of The Devil Wears Prada and Perfect Strangers.

Chamera, in which Kareena plays an Asian girl, will be shot over a 30-day schedule in North India. An agent for the actress confirmed, “This is one of the many projects that Kareena has been offered. They are paying her a handsome amount since she fits the role perfectly. She will be making an official announcement soon.”

Meanwhile, Kareena is reported to be ecstatic over recent developments in her life. With Hollywood biggies like Sylvester Stallone and rapper Sean Kingston praising her lately, sources close to the actress say that she believes this is the best phase of her career.

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'Chandni Chowk To China' will not see a Diwali release

Here's another news-break and as always, you find it on 'Bollywood Hungama' first!

Akshay Kumar's much-awaited CHANDNI CHOWK TO CHINA, directed by Nikhil Advani, was confirmed for Diwali release. But the film won't make it in the festive week. "There's some technical problem that has to be rectified," Nikhil Advani tells me. Will the film make it in the Diwali week? "No, it's not arriving in Diwali," producer Mukesh Talreja confirms, "The technical problem is being worked upon, but it is a time consuming process. The Prime Focus people are working on it. Plus, a lot of special effects are involved in our film. Our intention is to make a genuinely good film and we don't want to hurry up just because it's the Diwali week."

So what's the new release date? "Right now, we don't know the date yet. It could be November-end or December," Talreja reveals. Meanwhile, those looking for a clash between SRK [BILLO BARBER] and Akki [CHANDNI CHOWK TO CHINA] must be disappointed!

More on release dates: With CHANDNI CHOWK TO CHINA not arriving in Diwali, there's a strong possibility that GOLMAAL RETURNS, which was scheduled to arrive on November 7, will be preponed to Diwali [October 24]… YUVRAAJ might arrive in November/December/January. "We will take a call in a couple of days," Sunil Lulla of Eros tells me. Sunil also adds that BILLO BARBER is definitely arriving in Diwali.

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Bipasha Basu signed as the brand ambassador of Sugar Free Gold

Bipasha Basu is one actress who is not only known for her acting prowess but also for her stunning figure. The actress is a complete fitness freak and swears by healthy ways of living. Hence, it comes as no surprise when pharmaceutical company Cadilla decided to appoint Bipasha as the brand ambassador for its brand Sugar Free Gold.

Apparently, Bipasha was zeroed in as the brand ambassador for Sugar Free Gold as she truly is a fitness icon among the youth and hence would help in creating the necessary awareness among the consumers.

As per the contract, Bips will feature across all Sugar Free Gold communication, including advertisements on TV, outdoor, print, radio and other media.

Well, being a fitness freak has surely helped Bips bag yet another endorsement deal.

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Wishing Kajol, a very Happy Birthday

Shakespeare once asked 'What's in a name?' The reason as to why he asked that was probably because, at that time, he surely must not have heard of 'Kajol'. The name Kajol immediately sends electrifying vibes to anyone and everyone who hears it.

Yesterday, the whole of Bollywood is celebrated and has every reason to do so as it is the B-Day of its very own eternal 'Simran' aka Kajol and vice versa! Kajol, for starters, made her acting debut with Rahul Rawail's Bekhudi. Even though the film did not shine at the Box-Office, it gifted Bollywood its very own firebrand actress, Kajol, who later went onto become a name that's synonymous with many smash-hit films. While others demand a Numero Uno status, Kajol is (and forever will be) one actress who simply commands it! Baazigar, DDLJ, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, Fanaa etc… are standing testimonies of the same!

Even though many may deny on the face of it, but the eternal truth remains that Kajol's recent comeback in Bollywood has been giving sleepless nights' galore to many heroines. Such is the power of Kajol!

Join Bollywood Buzz as we put our hands together in wishing this actress a "Very Happy Birthday" by posting your wishes below.

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Preity starrer Heaven On Earth to be screened at the Toronto Film Festival

Deepa Mehta's Heaven On Earth is to be screened at the Toronto Film Festival on 6th September at the prestigious Elgin theatre.

"It's the venue of all serious-minded films at the Toronto Film Festival meant for a discerning audience. Last year, the Coen Brothers' No Country For Old Men premiered there. This year I'm proud to have my film there in the 'Special Representation' section," says Deepa.

The film's leading lady Preity Zinta joins Deepa in Toronto for the Festival screening. "And that's when Preity will dub her portion of the film in Hindi", informs Deepa. The Punjabi film is now being dubbed into Hindi as a two-language film on the insistence of the film's Indian distributor Ravi Chopra. However, Deepa insists that the Hindi version will have a very restricted screening. "The language of the film is Punjabi," she insists.

And now begins the struggle to find the right voices to dub the Punjabi characters. "The entire cast barring Preity is from Toronto. They can only speak English and Punjabi." Deepa arrives at Mumbai next week to supervise the Hindi dubbing of Heaven On Earth. "Preity will have to do her portions in Toronto after her world tour with the Bachchans and also attend the Toronto Festival screening."

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Akshay Kumar promotes Singh is Kinng in Vancouver

With Singh is Kinng releasing this Friday (08/08/08), Akshay Kumar is leaving no stone unturned to see that the film creates maximum pre-release buzz.

The Khiladi of Bollywood was seen at a special promotional event in Vancouver, Canada, over the weekend to promote Singh is Kinng. The film's worldwide distributor, Studio 18, flew Akshay from Los Angeles to Vancouver in a private jet. Upon landing in Vancouver, he immediately boarded a specially hired chopper that took him to the famous PNE (Pacific National Exhibition) Ground for a concert. As his limo rolled into the venue, the cheering fans went ballistic.

Known for its enormous Sikh community, Vancouver had its natives flocking in thousands to see Akki baba on stage. Akshay enthralled the audience present for half an hour with a live interaction and also danced to the title track of Singh Is Kinng, not once but twice, by public demand.

Following the event at PNE, the limo took him to The Fairmont Airport Hotel for an exclusive press conference by Studio 18 US. At the press conference, Akshay spoke about why the film is special to him, "Singh Is Kinng is my first production. It means the world to me because my father's named is attached. It is simple, honest and positive; which are the values propounded by my father", said the action hero.

Commenting on how the film and its title came about, he remarked, "When I read the phrase Singh Is King on a truck-back in Jaipur, I told my partner (Vipul Shah) that we had to make a film with this title. That was the starting point. We had no cast, no story, no director, but everything fell in place thereafter!"

Upon completion of the conference, the 'Khiladi'-turned-'Kinng' promptly rushed to the adjacent Vancouver airport to board his private jet back to Los Angeles.

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'My B’day wish is Peace in the country'

This dusky actress has mastered the art of stealing the hearts of movie buffs with her disarmingly natural portrayals.

But, that is something you would expect from Kajol, the granddaughter of Shobhna Samarth, daughter of Tanuja and niece of Nutan - the actresses who set milestones in Bollywood with their superlative performances. Kajol, who is turning 33 tomorrow, speaks to NT about films, television shows and peace in the country.

‘My biggest wish’
Tell her to reveal her birthday plans and you are treated to her trademark tinkling laughter, which comes straight from the heart. She says, "My life at the moment is going through such a hectic pace that I would rather chill out at home. No news would be good news at this juncture, and making no plans would really make me happy. I just hope to have a very uneventful birthday." But surely, husband Ajay Devgan and her six-year-old daughter Nysa have made some secret plans? To this Kajol says, "I am sure! But Nysa hasn't revealed these plans to me yet. Batayegi, batayegi!" And what is her biggest birthday wish? "I wish for peace in my heart and peace in our country. These ongoing blasts across the nation have disturbed me a lot," she says getting emotional.

On awards
Kajol is one of the few actresses in Bollywood who have bagged four Filmfare Awards. And at the rate she's going, the lady is all set to break her maasi Nutan's record who had bagged five Filmfare Awards. Ask her if national award is next on her agenda and she promptly replies, "When you do a particular film, you don't have awards in mind. But, yes, it definitely feels good when you are called as the best amongst your peers and awarded for the same. I wouldn't say that I don't aspire for a national award, but I don't sign films just to get awards."

A class apart
The star who has broken the myth about actresses not doing well post-marriage, took a sabbatical for five years and wowed her fans yet again with films like Fanaa and U, Me aur Hum. How did she manage this feat? "I think people have forgotten about actresses like Meena Kumari, Saira Banu etc., who did even better after marriage than before. I am not the sole exception," says she. The talented star will soon be appearing in her home production Toonpur Ka Superhero. Ask her what exactly is the film all about and she says, "As the name suggests, it's a cartoon film and we will have a lot of live characters in it. I can't reveal more than that, you will have to watch this film to know more."

Now that there are talks of the sequel of Andaz Apna Apna being made, would she want to do a role in the film? Kajol says rather candidly, "I don't have an objection to any role as long as it clicks in my head." And does the lady, who has been tagged as the chatterbox of the industry, have any plans to host a chat show on television? "Nobody has come to me with such a proposal, but if something good comes along, why not! I really don't know whether I will be good at it, because despite being a chatterbox, I am not a very public person," she confesses.

Dream pairing
There is a lot of buzz about Karan Johar's film - My Name is Khan - in which she will be appearing with Shah Rukh Khan again. Now that's one pairing, which has always been a superhit with the cinegoers. But, isn't she scared of the expectations that people would have from this project? "No, I am not scared! Darna tha toh tab darti jab Bollywood main enter kiya tha - with legacy of my mom, maasi and granny behind me. I take my work seriously, but it doesn't affect my nerves," says Kajol in a cool-as-a-cucumber manner before signing off.

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Bipasha Basu is upset

She can’t understand why people are making a big deal about her pairing with the younger and much-in-demand Ranbir Kapoor in Bachna Ae Haseeno. Of course, Bips admits that she is older than Ranbir, but then, so what? “A woman doesn’t reach her 30s and you call her old, yet a man who’s 50 can romance a girl who’s 14 or 16! Why are these biases there,” she asks with a frown.

The actress, who’s never looked in better shape than now, isn’t amused that people tend to write off an actress when she reaches her 30s. “If late 20s is old, what is 60s? Are only 16-year-old kids supposed to do films? What is two years elder or five or even 10? Does it look strange on screen? No it doesn’t. I’m working with Neil Nitin Mukesh who’s two years younger than me, Ranbir must be four years younger, but so what? Aishwarya has married a man three years younger, is that a big deal? Do they look like misfits? No, so I find these discussions very strange. I can’t tell you how many people have said that I’m looking the best with Ranbir,” she said.

Indeed, that appears to be in order going by the promos of the film in which the Bong babe sizzles with Ranbir despite the presence of Deepika Padukone and Minissha Lamba. “I have no doubt we look extremely good together. That’s also because we became really good friends during the shooting. Oh no! change that! Good friends is dangerous. No, Ranbir is just a friend,” she laughs.

The past few months have been hectic for Bipasha who has been travelling for Bachna... and Freeze, making people think she’s become low profile. “I’m always low profile when films are not releasing and come into profile when they are going to release,” she smiles. When does she find time to spend with John? “At night when I come back home he always asks ‘What’s there for dinner, baby?’ He doesn’t like to eat vegetables and it’s so irritating to think of new things to make everyday! And then he fusses and says this is not doing anything for his body,” she sighs good-naturedly.

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'Bachna Ae Haseeno' - Music Video

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Katrina Kaif and Salman Khan in 'Hello' Trailer

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Sherlyn Chopra's 'Dard-e-Sherlyn' Music Video

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Katrina hopes high with SINGH IS KINNG

After being crowned the sexiest woman by FHM, Katrina Kaif is in talks for her upcoming film SINGH IS KINNG which is produced by Vipul Shah. Katrina is extremely excited about her next release. She quotes ''I am hoping high with this film, not only because it's an important film for me but also its director Vipul Shah's first film as a producer and I know how much that would mean to him''.

She has given back to back 5 whammies, out of which two of them were paired opposite Mr.Khiladi, Akshay Kumar. And now next is SINGH IS KINNG. They have already been hit pair onscreen.

She is considered amongst the select few who commands a price and gets it. And her sense of dedication and election of scripts is bang on target, what with the trade circles abuzz on how she too is proving lucky for Akshay Kumar at the box office stakes.

Infact with the positive reports in the trade circle of SINGH IS KINNG and YUVRAJ, her next back to back releases, the trade is abuzz on how Katrina is all set to have 7 hits in a row, a record of sorts in Bollywood. She has already delivered back to back hits like NAMASTEY LONDON, PARTNER, APNE, WELCOME and RACE.

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Akshay's 12 hr Jet-Ski class for an action sequence in Singh Is Kinng

While shooting a scene in Singh Is Kinng on the Gold Coast, Akshay Kumar had to Jet Ski in deep water but realized that he would not be allowed to do so without an official license.

Producer Vipul Shah reveals, "It takes three days to get a jet-ski license but Akshay explained the time constraints. He did a three-day course in 12 hours. He got up at 6 am and got his license by 7 pm. He had to give a written and practical test. The action scene we have shot is one of the most expensive ones that Bollywood has ever seen and has been directed by Danny Baldwin." Akshay laughs, "Going through a theory and practical exam was like going back to school!"

Danny Baldwin is an incredibly popular stunts coordinator in Australia with over a hundred films and television series to his credit. He is even said to have worked with Tom Cruise in The Last Samurai and Michael Douglas in The Ghost And The Darkness.

Commenting on how he was approached, Shah says, "When we went for a reccee to Australia, we saw a lot of show-reels and met a lot of technicians. But we saw a clear synergy with Danny as his style of action was exactly what we needed. The beauty about the action in Singh is Kinng is that not only is it great to look at but makes the audience laugh as well."

Reacting to rumors that the glamour action in Singh Is Kinng resembles that of Dhoom 2, Vipul adds, "It is similar only in quality. These are very high-end action sequences. Akshay had to be very careful in certain sequences, for instance, the scene in which he had to jump from one moving lift to another without supporting cables. But Akshay is Akshay! He did it with much panache and agility. Enjoy watching it in the film!"

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Sound glitch makes audience the hero

DAY 15

- Show No. 5: And it would sound like a cliché if commented that Houston turned out to be yet another madness in motion over the fortnight gone by. Houston not just carried forward from San Francisco but turned out to be notches above that. And of course, Toronto, Trinidad as well as LA. With approximately 15000 strong crowds thronging the venue, it was yet another starry night where audience was the ultimate winner!

- Audience was the ultimate winner? But why? Well, read on. For all the performers out there, they had an assignment cut out for them. They had to rehearse well. They had to wear the best costumes. They had to keep their energy level high. They had to do something creative while in the realms of staying within the content charted out for them. And yes, they had to occasionally be innovative as well. However, at Houston, audience proved that it could be quite some force when given an opportunity!

- And this opportunity came, courtesy a technical glitch. For close to a minute, the sound completely disappeared even as the performance was happening on stage. And this performance was from none other than Amitabh Bachchan while he was singing 'Rang Barse'. Big B was going great guns, the dancers along with him were in great mood as well, and suddenly, in the middle of the act, the crowd stopped hearing voice from the stage. This is when they impromptu decided to join the fun instead of being a spoilsport. From here on it was crowd's turn to take it on from there, and rest, as they say, was history!

- For this entire minute, the crowd continued to clap, sing together in unison, get on the seats, dances on the floors and ensured that the momentum only went up instead of dipping. Shiamak Davar's troupe which was dancing on the stage didn't get hassled as well and went on with the performance without being bothered by the technical glitch.

- Looking at the way audience was reacting to the entire situation, it was difficult for Riteish, Vishal, and Shekhar to hold themselves any more. While seeing it all from the sidelines all this while, they too jumped on the stage and joined the show on the stage. Clapping hard and dancing even harder, each and every person on the evening ensured that it was one of the BEST ever of their lives!

- Talking about Vishal and Shekhar, after four rocking shows behind them, it was irresistible for them not to check out how it really feels from the audience point of view when the performances are on at the stage. This is why this time around they decided to have a clearer dekko from closer to the audience than seeing it all either from backstage or sidelines. They watched Big B perform to dialogues from Agneepath ['Apun Ka Aaj Maut Ke Saath Appointment Hai'] and Deewar amongst many others and as it comes from the horse's mouth, there wasn't a single eye around, which was not moist. - Apart from the show, which was undoubtedly huge with a starry presence, there were quite a few behind the scenes incidents, which made a follow up to this evening together. Apparently, after the press conference a day earlier followed by a 'Meet and Greet' event, all the stars were together in the hotel elevator except for Amitabh Bachchan. As they stepped out at one of the floors, Big B happened to be around who invited everyone to have dinner at his place.

- The conversation which followed was quite eventful for everyone as it went from 8:30 PM in the evening till 2:00 AM in the morning. Conversation revolved around everyone narrating some special incidents from their lives which were hitherto untold. Apart from some of the real bizarre incidents told, there was one heartwarming story which surprised everyone around. This was the one where Big B threw some light around his visit to Kabul for the shooting of Khuda Gawah.

- Apparently during his travel to Kabul, the city was facing troubled times. While Big B traveled in a helicopter, he was escorted by two helicopters at either ends for security reasons. As his helicopter hit the helipad, he wasn't allowed to step down. Reason? As per the Afghani tradition, a special guest isn't allowed to step down on the ground. Instead, he is carried to the destination. So there came a huge 'Pathan' who carried Big B all the way from the helicopter to his destination.

- There is an emotional tale about this 'destination' as well! The moment Bachchan entered the village, he saw horde of people out there on the streets. While he was humbled by the fact that everyone came to greet him on their land, he was shocked to know the real reason behind this huge assembly of people. As goes the legend, they all had vacated their houses since they wanted to extend him the invitation of staying over at their place. As per locals, since there were no hotels worthy of his stature to accommodate him, they wanted Bachchan to pick and choose any of the houses which he deemed comfortable enough. An emotion-struck Bachchan eventually had to relent and was a guest of an Afghani family during his stay at Kabul!

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Press Meet of Bachna Ae Haseeno at Yash Raj Studios

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Shilpa: The sleeping beauty

Check out my muscles!” says Shilpa Shetty, as she wraps up a hot, hot photoshoot and settles down for a chat.

Looking svelte and ultra-glam in red, muscles are the last thing you’d expect this lady to flaunt. But in a happy, chirpy mood, Shilpa prattles on about the little things in life. She explains that she’s been doing weight training for a movie where she has to kick ass, “and so these muscles!” she giggles.

And when she’s tired of all that weight raining, she sleeps. Actually, she says she always sleeps a lot. “I sleep a lot because I love it. I watch a lot of TV – I’m addicted to it. I enjoy being in a dark room. Maybe that’s because I’m tired of being in so much light. Watching TV in a dark room feels as if I’m watching it in a theatre,” she says.

But Shilpa doesn’t normally get to do all that. She’s a busy girl, what with shooting for Sunny Deol’s The Man, The Unforgettable Tour, an international project and her home production. As far as her production goes, Shilpa rubbishes rumours that she’s signed on Bipasha Basu for the movie. “I haven’t finalised Bipasha for my movie. Why are people so intrigued about everything? This sometimes works against the film. I don’t want these things to come out too early.”

With all that happening, though, she says she doesn’t understand people who say that she doesn’t contribute to the Indian film industry. “To unnecessarily put me down, to say things like, ‘Oh, what has she done in India?’ is very demeaning. Sometimes, people make me feel like I haven’t achieved anything. Someone on TV once said that I started my own production and came out with the yoga DVD because I wasn’t getting any work. I’d like to ask them, what do you know? I have sold a product of India abroad – they will not talk about that. That a girl from India has made it big abroad, uska koi kuch nahi bolega! I can also just take so much. I want to tell people now that I am not here to take this s**t. They constantly make me feel like an outsider in my own country. It is so weird!” she exclaims.

However, she says she’s no stranger to low phases. “I was written off as an item girl. I don’t know where they got that term from. I think I’ve done fewer item numbers than Aishwarya Bachchan. She’s done Ishq Kameena, Kajra Re... On the other hand, I have done only one, in Shool. The other songs became famous only because I was the heroine in those movies,” she says, adding, “But those phases made me work on myself. They talked about my make-up, I improved it; talked about my dress sense, I changed that. I come from a non-filmy background, so I had to learn everything on my own.”

But she’s happy now, in love, and doesn’t like talking about it much. Why? “I don’t like people jumping to conclusions and I guess that’s why many actors guard their personal lives. I am a little superstitious, more than insecure. I believe in this nazar thing and all. So I believe that if something has to happen, then let it happen at the right time,” she says.

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Deepika and Ranbir on the cover of People Magazine

There is an all-time favourite song starring the legendary Shashi Kapoor and Nanda 'Na Na Karte Pyaar Tumhi Se Kar Baithe'. Well, if at all, there will be a modern-day version to the song; it would surely have Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone with a slight modification in the lyrics, which would read as, 'Media Ke Saamne Na Na Karte Ikraar Unhi Se Kar Baithe'. If you are wondering what we are talking about, well, wonder no further as after all the 'inkaar and takraar', its finally time for 'pyaar ka ikraar' for two of the Bollywood's hottest stars, viz., Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone.

In the latest issue of 'People' magazine, the lovey-dovey couple confessed about how they met and the person who was 'actually' instrumental in bringing them together! This issue is worth a read for more reasons than one, as it brings together Sikandar Kher's fathers Anupam Kher and Gautam Berry and a cool insight in to the lives of the much talked about pair of Ranvir-Konkona.

So what are you waiting for people…go ahead splurge yourself with a copy of 'People'!

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When a fan fell in love with Ash

DAY 13

- Ever since the performance at San Francisco, the team of 'Unforgettable' has been in a chill-out mode. Madhuri Dixit returned to Denver, Abhishek and Aishwarya flew back to India for a short while, Big B decided to spend some time in New York, Preity Zinta stayed on in SF itself with her niece, Vishal Dadlani decided to make an early visit to Houston...

- Meanwhile good reviews continue to keep the show's momentum on. Last, one heard that the show all the way in London is seeing great booking as well. However, the sad part is Vancouver trip being canceled. Apparently, the stars were more than willing to perform but the promoter made it impossible for everyone involved. General sentiment for the team was to go ahead with the show and make it happen for the fans. However, the promoter messed up on the arrangements and the team decided that rather than work with someone who didn't know his job, they rather make way out of it!

- However, in spite of 'thoda gham' here, there is a lot of 'khushi' for the international recognition that the stars are getting. A few days back, each of the stars from the show was handed over a commendation from none other than the Attorney General of California for their contribution to culture togetherness. Quite a matter of pride for them since the recognition came from the member of a foreign government.

- Being a small family that makes Bollywood, people continue to keep meeting at some juncture or another. Karan Johar was there in town for his work on his next directorial venture My Name Is Khan and happened to show the teasers of Dostana to the privileged lot. The vibes are great and it appears that Karan along with his writer Shibani Bathija (who was accompanying Karan and has earlier written his Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna as also Kunal Kohli's Fanaa) indeed have a rocking rom-com waiting to be grabbed!

- While watching the promo of Dostana, came across as a pleasant surprise for Vishal, it was sad for him to have missed visiting a 'Jazz' event. Certain unforeseen circumstances required him to skip it though he is sure that in days to come, he would check out at least four different concerts once the Houston show is through!

- Talking about Dostana, there was quite some 'dostana' demonstrated by an enthusiastic fan in the recent concert. Waving from the crowd, he seemed to be in love with stars. This is why when Abhishek hit the stage, he shouted at the top of his voice - 'I Love You Abhishek'. Respecting his loving gesture, Abhishek too shouted by - 'I Love you too'. This is when the fan screamed back, 'I Love your Dad as well' to which Abhishek replied, 'But I Love my Dad more than you love him.' Well, the story didn't end here. The moment Aishwarya came to perform, the same man made his presence felt, this time claiming to be in love with the entire Bachchan family including Ash! Ash did acknowledge him and thanked him for his love and affection! No wonder, it turned out to be some evening for the guy!

- Members of 'Unforgettable' had a pleasant experience while on the sets of Kambakth Ishq a few days. In spite of the film boasting of primarily an international crew, the songs being played on location were those from Bachna Ae Haseeno. In fact, a crew member (named Willoughby) got so excited by hearing the film's title track that he decided to get a tattoo on him with plain and simple words 'Bachna Ae Haseeno' being pierced upon! Yes, he has been quite serious ever since he was informed that the words stood for 'Watch Out O Beautiful Ones'.

- As the mini-vacation period comes to a close with the next concert being planned for the evening of Saturday, August 2, stars have started to gather once again. Abhishek and Aishwarya would be back in the evening, Amitabh Bachchan and Madhuri Dixit are back, Vishal is already in the town while others too are expected to be there before the day comes to a close. From here on, it would be time for some quick reconvening before the BIG night arrives!

- To make this BIG night further more exciting than any of the four concerts held earlier, Vishal and Shekhar are planning to spice up the proceedings further. While all this while they have been enthralling the audiences with songs from Om Shanti Om, Bachna Ae Haseeno, Bluffmaster and Tashan, they may add or get some replacement running with tracks from Salaam Namastey, Jhankaar Beats and even Waise Bhi Hota Hai - Part II ('Allah Ke Bande'). Now it has to be seen how the magic of a Deewangee or a Dil Dance Maare is further enhanced in Houston!

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'RK' breathes down Deepika's neck!

Don’t know how far this is true, but the word is strong that Deepika Padukone has taken a tip from Saif Ali Khan and professed her devotion to her beloved with a tattoo.

Saif’s “Kareena” tattoo on his forearm is now legend. But Deepika, being shyer and more private than the flamboyant Khan, is reported to have got the initials “RK” daintily tattooed on the nape of her neck.

It can’t be seen, naturally. But Deepika is said to have revealed the tattoo to a friend and spoken about it on the air waves. Bollywood, of course, loves such displays of affection, and if true, some crafty filmmaker must already be considering how to show Deepika’s RK on screen first!

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Kareena ki paathshaala

Kareena Kapoor, who has been practising power yoga for over a year now, plans to set up a school to promote it. The actress has also been recommending it to friends.

According to a source close to her, "After Kareena's power yoga resulted in a slim, fit body, she wants everyone to know about it. She has been toying with the idea for a long time.

In fact, Bebo even discussed it with her sister Karisma and told her about plans to start a school. She is very dedicated to the cause and wants more people to benefit. She has also discussed the idea with Saif and he has approved."

"She brainstormed with a couple of influential people and everyone gave her a thumbs-up for the idea. For now, she wants to begin the school in India and over time, in other countries," adds the source.

The source further reveals, "In fact, Bebo even got Saif to start practising power yoga. Afte