'Kidnap' versus 'Drona' 2 days to go

Now here's one week everyone's looking forward to. After a string of low-cost and medium-budget fares making a mark in the holy month of Ramzan, let's get ready to embrace the biggies, starting from this week onwards. All eyes are on KIDNAP and DRONA. For various reasons…

KIDNAP is crucial for director Sanjay Gadhvi as also Imran Khan. Gadhvi makes his first film outside Yash Raj and naturally, people are expecting the moon from Gadhvi's new outing. Will KIDNAP be as successful as DHOOM and DHOOM 2? KIDNAP is also an acid test for Imran Khan, who has been cast in a role that's in sharp contrast to the one in JAANE TU… YA JAANE NA. Will it work? Will Imran stand up to a giant like Sanjay Dutt, who has decades of experience behind him?

Similarly, DRONA is crucial for Abhishek Bachchan and Goldie Behl. Abhishek has had a string of flops after GURU. JHOOM BARABAR JHOOM and LAAGA CHUNARI MEIN DAAG, produced by Yash Raj, have proved supreme disasters at the box-office, while SARKAR RAJ met with average success in Mumbai-Maharashtra and South. Elsewhere, it was a flop.

Since DRONA rides on Abhishek's shoulders, it'll be interesting to see if the actor pulls in the audiences in its opening 4-day weekend. Also, Goldie Behl has to prove his abilities after he flunked the test in BAS ITNA SA KHWAB HAI. Thursday, October 2 holds the answers!

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Madhuri Dixit to recreate `Ek do teen` krazzze with Himesh

Bollywood's dancing queen Madhuri Dixit is all set to make yet another comeback to the silver screen, this time with none other than the all rounder Himesh. The actress will be grooving to Himesh Reshammiya's version of her most famous smash hit ever Ek do teen from the movie Tezaab.

The stunning actress has reportedly been roped in for the cult song in John Matthew Matthan�s next film, 'A Love Isshtory' which stars Himesh Reshammiya and Niharika Singh.

Grapevine has it that Reshammiya, who plays a tapori in the film, impersonates Munna from 'Rangeela', a character made famous by Aamir Khan�s portrayal of it.

According to our source, Madhuri will be dancing to the foot tapping tunes of Ek do teen� but this time Himesh will be doing what he�s best at by joining her on stage.

Looks like Himesh is going to offer us many more Tandoori Nights!

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Abhishek Bachchan on the television show Balika Vadhu

After his stint in Bigg Boss, Abhishek Bachchan will soon be seen again on the Colors channel. Since the release of Drona is closer to heels, Abhishek and Goldie Behl are promoting the film on a huge scale. Earlier stars appeared on reality shows now they have begun targeting serials with high TRPs.

Abhishek will now appear on Colors' popular soap, 'Balika Vadhu'. He would be seen interacting with the prime characters of the show Anandi, Shugna and Jagdish.

In fact, before the shoot itself, Abhishek gelled with his kiddie co-stars for the show and developed a friendly rapport with them.

The episode would be aired on October 2. So, watch out for Abhishek's small screen performance.

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Drona makers launch exclusive range of merchandise targeted at kids

In the West, whenever you have a big adventure/ fantasy kind of film hitting theatres, filmmakers cash in on the hype surrounding the film and launch a wide range of merchandise. So you had dolls, key-chains, T-shirts, caps and many other souvenirs of films like Spiderman, Superman, Harry Potter and The Incredibles launched at the time of their release.

Out here in Bollywood, only recently have films like Krrish, Love Story 2050, Hanuman and Hari Puttar launched exclusive film merchandise around its release. The most recent film to come up with some really interesting merchandise is the fantasy adventure Drona. The film starring Abhishek Bachchan and Priyanka Chopra in lead roles has launched some interesting memorabilia such as comic books, mugs, t-shirts, swords, coloring books, magic box kit etc.

The merchandise which is quite nominally priced (Comic Book- Rs.50, Magic Kit- Rs.225 and Drona's sword- Rs.375) is available at almost all the Big Bazaar outlets and is mainly targeted towards kids. So now don't be surprised if you see the kids in your neighborhood playing with Abhishek's Drona swords and performing some magic tricks just like the way Riz Raizada (Kay Kay Menon) does in the film.

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"To be honest I had not seen Dhoom when Gadhvi approached me" - Sanjay Dutt

It's nearly for three decades now that he has been in the industry and even today his stardom is as big as ever. The name is Sanjay Dutt but the world calls him 'Baba'. Baba has ruled the silver screen for years. Although he has been through highs and lows in his personal life, he came out as winner. His optimism and spirit to keep going is unbeatable. And this very spirit is what director Sanjay Gadhvi has tried to capture in his upcoming release Kidnap. Gadhvi was so sure of casting Baba for this film that he waited for almost four years to get Dutt's dates. And looking at the promos, we can surely say that Gadhvi's wait for so worth it.

Bollywood Hungama brings you excerpts from the conversation with the super suave Sanjay Dutt.

What attracted you to Kidnap?
The moment Sanjay (Gadhvi) narrated the first line of the film, I knew I had to do it. It's something I haven't done in all these years. There was a sense of identification with the character - a father who deeply and immensely cares for his daughter and will go to any extent for her safety and happiness.

What was Sanjay Gadhvi like as a director?
He's tremendous. Sanjay is very focused and he knows what he wants. He is very clear in his vision and has the knack of getting the best out his actors.

Did it help that he was the maker of the Dhoom series?
To be honest I had not seen Dhoom or Dhoom 2, except their promos when he approached me. I believed in the subject and in him and decided to do it.

Tell us more about Kidnap?
My producers, director and co-actors went through a lot of anxiety during the shoot of Kidnap because of my trial. But all's well that ends well. I am happy the film is complete, ready and looking good. It is my first release in 2008. I play a father to Sonia (Minissha Lamba) who is kidnapped by Kabir (Imran Khan). It's an edge-of-the-seat thriller, which everyone is bound to enjoy. It has some great action and emotion and has been well written and directed. I hope my audience goes out and watches it.

Was it difficult playing a father?
No, why should it be? I have played father to Hrithik Roshan earlier.

You mentioned at the press conference that Kidnap is very close to you, as you identify very closely with the character of Vikrant Raina!
I could relate to the father in the film. I love my daughter Trishala immensely and during the making of this film, I kept thinking about what I would do or how I would react if Trishala ever got kidnapped. There was a lot of real-life emotion that came into my character in the film.

Who will Kidnap appeal to?
I think the beauty of Kidnap lies in the fact that besides being an engaging thriller cum drama, it concurrently captures the softer emotions and relationships of father-daughter, husband-wife, girl-boy. It's a thriller with a heart, and on the whole, an entertaining commercial product, which will appeal to everyone. Also, it has Imran Khan who has become very popular after Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Na.

How was it to work with the industry's hottest youngster, Imran Khan?
We got along well. He's a humble, conscientious and hardworking boy. He's into his craft. He'll go a long way and I hope and pray that success doesn't change him.

Anything else you can recount during the shoot of Kidnap?
I enjoyed the action. It had my adrenaline rushing. I felt a teenager again! (Smiles)

Which are your forthcoming films?
EMI, Aladdin, Blue and Munnabhai 3. I am starting my own production house next year and hope to make good films.

What do you cherish the most in life?
The fact that I was born to great parents and have a great set of fans, friends and well-wishers.

What do you regret the most?
The days when I was into drugs and my time in jail. But that was destiny...

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Saif, Arjun and Yuvraj on the cover of GQ

The much awaited news has just hit the stands (read 'news stands'). We are indeed talking about GQ, the world's leading men's magazine and their super-mega Indian launch, which has got none other than the Nawab Pataudi Jr. (Saif Ali Khan) himself for starters. Even though he looks his usual element on the cover along with a hot PYT chic, we would have definitely preferred him with his trademark glares.

Nevertheless, this issue has Saif speaking (read 'confessing') that "Married men who are inaccessible are definitely hotter for women... In most of my relationships, I've been unfaithful, and I don't want to do that anymore... I've done things backwards. I've been married; I've lived with someone, now I'm dating someone." Honest confessions there by Saif!

If that was not enough, the readers can feast their eyes on the super hot and super sexy Yuvraj Singh (who is a pro in both bowling maiden over as well as even the maidens over!) and Arjun Rampal, to say the least!

And if that was not enough, the magazine also has Karan Johar as the contributing editor. Looking at the launch issue, we can surely say that 'GQ...has arrived'!

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Big B, SRK, Akki, who's biggest brand

The newly emerged KINNG of Bollywood Akshay Kumar or Akki, as rightly called, is definitely riding high.

With back–to–back hits he has proved to be the star with the Midas touch with all of his films proving to be winners for the producers. This in turn soar his demand in the market and placed him among the top league of Bollywood. After conquering Box–office, Akki has also become King of the ad world. A couple of days back he was appointed as the new brand ambassador for Levi's jeans '501' brand.

And if all this was not enough than here is one more reason for Akki to be rightly called as the 'King' of tinsel town. As per the latest reports, Bollywood Superstar Akshay Kumar has been awarded the title of 'Brand Ambassador of the year'. This coveted title was honoured to him at the CNBC Awaaz consumer awards 2008 held in Mumbai recently.

Akki won this title leaving behind the likes of Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan, Hrithik Roshan in the race.

Till date Shah Rukh and Big B used to be touted as the most powerful and bankable brands. Infact Shah Rukh is the only star who has supposedly the maximum number of brand endorsements under his belt. But with Akshay's entry in the brand war this competition becomes fiercer from here on.

Do you think Akshay is the right choice to be called as the 'Brand Ambassador of the year'?

Or you think someone else deserves.

SHARE YOUR OPINIONS WITH US

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Saif apologises for alleged assault

Bollywood star Saif Ali Khan on Monday apologised for a row with a photojournalist in patiala but maintained that he was not involved in the alleged assault on the photographer.

Saif's apology came hours after Government Railway Police (GRP) registered a case against him and four others of a film unit for allegedly assaulting a photojournalist.

The actor, who initially remained unavailable after the case was registered against him and others, later held a meeting with local journalists and apologised. A compromise was worked out between both sides.

"Patiala is a lovely place and our shoot has been going really well. The crowd has also been very co-operative. As an individual I was not present at the time of the incident so I don't know the details. But as a producer and on behalf of Illuminati Films, our company, I would like to apologise on behalf of our security for any inconvenience caused to the local press," said Saif.

"Shooting can get pretty chaotic and crowded in small towns and some pushing and shoving normally happens in a crowd situation. It happens all the time. So if anyone has been offended I would like to apologise to them personally and also on behalf of our production," added the actor.

Saif and members of the unit of his film were booked for assault, intimidation and inciting violence. The actor himself was booked for inciting the film unit workers.

Commenting on the assault charges levelled against him, Saif said: "That is completely, completely false and baseless. I was not even around. Anyway, like I said before, I would still like to apologise to anyone who was offended."

Earlier in the day, GRP officials said a case was registered following a complaint by a photojournalist from a Hindi newspaper who said he had been beaten up by the film unit staff after being incited by the actor.

"We registered a case against Khan and others following a complaint," GRP inspector general G.S. Grewal said.

The photographer was taking pictures of Khan at the railway station in Patiala on Sunday. The star objected and told private security and film production unit associates to tackle the photojournalist following which he was allegedly thrashed.

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Salman hates romancing Katrina!

Salman Khan might be known as the ‘bad boy’ of Bollywood who often likes to break rules and be anything but diplomatic! He believes in wearing his heart on his sleeve and doesn’t regret talking openly about his ‘tiffs’ in the film industry unlike his contemporaries who believe in playing it safe! His habit of taking off his shirt whenever his fans ask him too also happens to be his trademark style and after reading all the above you will be surprised to know what we are about to tell you next about this bindass ‘baadshah’ (we hope SRK wont mind us calling Sallu that!) of Bollywood since you’d never expect him to say that!

Cutting the long story short... Salman-Katrina love story is something that the entire world knows about but what we didn’t know before was the actor’s awkwardness over romancing his real life girlfriend onscreen!

“I know who I like in my real life. The world doesn’t have to see me expressing my love for someone on screen! I am not very comfortable enacting intimate scenes onscreen for this very reason”, said Salman recently when asked about him not doing enough romantic films starring Katrina Kaif!

Salman-Katrina will be seen together in Ghai’s forthcoming film Yuvraaj as a couple but that too won’t revolve much about their love story! Prior to Yuvraaj the couple was seen in ‘ Maine Pyaar Kyun Kiya’ but there too Sushmita Sen played the real romantic lead opposite Salman. In Partner too Salman romanced Lara while Govinda walked away with Katrina!

Sallu now that we know the reason, we’d say it’s very gentlemanly of you to admit your discomfort! Hopefully now the silly rumours about Sallu being not comfortable with Kat-Akki friendship will bite the dust and rest in peace!

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We will arrest Saif Ali Khan soon, says police officer

Bollywood star Saif Ali Khan found himself in trouble on Monday after the Government Railway Police (GRP) registered a case against him and four others of a film unit for allegedly assaulting a photojournalist.

Khan and members of the unit of his latest film were booked for assault, intimidation and inciting violence.

GRP officials said the move followed a complaint by a photojournalist from a Hindi newspaper who said he had been beaten up by the film unit staff after being incited by Khan.

The photographer was taking pictures of Khan at the railway station in Patiala on Sunday. The star objected and told private security and film production unit associates to tackle the photojournalist following which he was allegedly thrashed.

"We will arrest him soon," GRP inspector general G.J.S. Grewal said in Patiala.

The registration of the case follows protests by mediapersons against Khan and others.

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Shilpa Attends the Singapore Grand Prix with beau Raj Kunder

Shilpa Shetty, along with beau Raj Kunder, participated in the inaugural Formula One World Singtel Singapore Grand Prix held from September 26-28.

The first Formula One event under floodlights had Fernando Alonso winning his first 2008 victory. Jackie Stewart and Niki Lauda, Fernando Alonso and Kimi Raikkonen, Damon Hill and his wife Georgie, and Jody Scheckter and Mika Hakkinnen were also present at the event.

Recalling the event, the actress says from Singapore, "It was fantastic! The rush of adrenalin and the palpable energy was awesome!

I had gone to attend the event on the invitation of Bernie Ecclestone (CEO, Formula One Management) Though Singapore is a big hub for Asians, I was invited through Britain (Shilpa had won the TV show Big Brother last year) not India though I cheered for Force India team."

Shilpa wore a French designer outfit, which she bought in Miami, when she was there for I had shot there for Dostana.

Though Shilpa's favourite is Lewis Hamilton, it was Spanish driver Fernando Alonso who won the game. Shilpa says, "It's not important who won. I stood there like a fan watching the likes of Kimi Raikkonen and Lewis Hamilton start the race right in front of me. I couldn't get to meet them as just before take off they don't meet people but concentrate on the run. I was excited just watching them up close and personal."

The actress who loves fast cars adds, "I am petrified of driving. However I might risk it on the racetrack. It's a heady feeling to drive a powerful car with high speed."

After the finals on Sunday night, Shilpa went on a shopping spree with boyfriend Raj Kundra and her agent. "I have just bought lots of clothes, shoes and bags. I love shopping and can shop anywhere. It was great to have Raj with me."

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John as a sportsman yet again

Bollywood actor John Abraham, who played the role of an ace footballer in "Dhan Dhana Dhan Goal", will now be seen dribbling the basketball in one of his forthcoming films.

The similarity doesn't end with the fact that John will be seen as a sportsman - he will be paired with his real life girlfriend Bipasha Basu in the film. Both were paired in "Goal" too.

Bipasha will sport an absolutely fresh look in the film.

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Vidya Balan takes acting lessons from Naseeruddin

Vidya Balan is doing every bit that she can to deliver her best in Vishal Bharadwaj's "Ishqiya". For this, she even joined a 10-day workshop with her co-star Naseeruddin Shah.

"The character that Vidya is playing in 'Ishqiya' is very complex and difficult to enact. Vidya thought that the way to emote the character on screen was best learnt from Naseeruddin Shah because the veteran actor is a master at it," a source close to the actress said.

"She was ecstatic to be discussing cinema with the master himself. Though they ended up discussing the film and cinema at length instead of doing a serious workshop, Vidya treasures the experience and is looking forward to working with the actor in the film," added the source.

Vidya, who stars opposite Arshad Warsi in the film, is not only taking lessons from Naseer but also also underwent classes to speak the typical Uttar Pradesh dialect during those 10 days.

"Vidya was just not familiar with the native that kind of Hindi. She mastered it by getting a teacher," said the source.

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Karisma Kapoor features on the cover of Verve this month

If it is a Miracle, any sort of evidence will answer…but if it is a Fact, proof is necessary

And the 'proof' is in the form of the latest issue of Verve that has got the 'Miraculous' Karisma Kapoor all over again! Karisma who is in her sparkling avatar is indeed a treat to watch coz' she is back and Glamorous as ever. This issue is a special edition that features the 'Best Dressed' women who might be varied in profession and attire but are still threaded together by their distinctiveness and appeal.

Other 'power-packed' women also include the likes of Parmeshwar Godrej, Katrina Kaif, Priyaraje Scindia and Simone Singh. Well, if (all) this is not enough, then, feast your eyes with the 'Rocking' dude Farhan Akhtar! All in all, a must-read issue for each one of you!

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Karisma to judge 'Nach Baliye 4'

Actor Karisma Kapoor will face the camera after five years as a judge of reality dance show 'Nach Baliye'.

She will join choreographer-film director Farah Khan and actor Arjun Rampal to judge the season four of the dance show which goes on air on Star Plus from October ten.

Sabbas Joseph, Director of Wizcraft which is producing the show, told PTI that Karisma has been a successful dancing star and she was at ease when offered the show. "She knows Farah and us well," he added.

Significantly, the announcement of her participation in the show came on her 5th wedding anniversary today.

The actress is married to Delhi-based industrialist Sanjay Kapur and has a daughter.

Karisma has been looking for a comeback in movies and wants to test acceptance level through the medium of television, sources said.

The shooting will begin at Filmcity from October six.

Karisma's last release were 'Baaz' in 2003 and 'Mere Jeevan Saathi' in 2006. She also played the protagonist in 'Karishma: The miracles of destiny' on Sahara television in 2003.

Apart from this, she was one of the several filmstars who participated in a dance number in Shah Rukh Khan's 'Om Shanti Om'.

Farah said she has judged two singing competitions earlier. "But dance is my forte and I think I am more comfortable judging a dance show," she said.

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Shah Rukh Khan at the Ramzan Sehri

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Imran Khan & Sonam Kapoor watch the F1 Grand Prix at Singapore

In case you think that Imran Khan is all nervous waiting for the release of his second film Kidnap, you couldn't be further from the truth.

The newest Khan on the block was seen enjoying himself at the Formula 1 Grand Prix at Singapore over the weekend. Giving Imran company was none other than yet another new and talented actress, Sonam Kapoor. Both Imran and Sonam cheered for Force India's driver Adrian Sutil. What's more, the duo even presented Adrian with a Siddhivinayak idol of Lord Ganesha before the qualifying race at Marina Bay Street Circuit, Singapore.

In spite of the round the clock promotions for his forthcoming film Kidnap, Imran did manage to squeeze time to fly to Singapore and watch the F1 Race. Must say, Imran surely believes in the adage 'All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy'

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Shah Rukh Khan to do a special appearance in Vivek Sharma's next

Shah Rukh Khan has done it again. After having done many guest appearances and cameos in the recent past in films like I See You, Heyy Babyy, Bhoothnath, the superstar will once again be seen in a cameo in director Vivek Sharma's next film Kal Kisne Dekha.

The film marks the acting debut of producer Vashu Bhagnani's son Jackie Bhagnani and is a romantic drama slated to release early next year. Incidentally, Shah Rukh agreed to do a guest appearance in the film because of his proximity with director Vivek Sharma. SRK was even seen in a small role in Vivek's directorial debut Bhoothnath alongside Juhi Chawla and Amitabh Bachchan.

Hope SRK is able to weave his magic once again.

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Malaika Arora Khan, Lara Dutta and Dino Morea at the GQ Magazine launch

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Amitabh finds his greatest fan

The Bachchans’s tour seemed to be one ‘fan’fare, literally speaking.

Amitabh Bachchan was most touched by Rochelle, a little girl who made it a point to attend every concert put up by the Bachchans. She observed the backstage action, attended the shows, followed the Bachchans to their hotels, waited at the gates for hours for just a peek and when she returned home, she quickly wrote about it all on her blog.

It looks like this little girl could give all his fans tough competition all alone. “She is a Sherlock Holmes in the making,” says Bachchan, who makes it a point to read Rochelle’s blogs. And we thought he was only busy writing his!

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Dilip Kumar stable in hospital

Thespian Dilip Kumar has been admitted to a hospital in New Delhi due to complications resulting from an urinary infection, but his condition was stable on Friday.

"His condition is stable and there is nothing to worry about," said sources at Indraprasth Apollo Hospital where the actor was admitted on Thursday.

The 86-year-old actor, whose condition worsened on Thursday, was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit of the hospital where he is being treated for the infection.

The hospital sources said: "As his condition is improving, we will be shifting him out of ICU shortly."

The actor is known for his landmark performances in films like "Devdas", "Madhumati", "Ganga Jamuna", "Mughal-e-Azam", "Shakti" and "Karma".

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Send B'day wishes to Ranbir Kapoor

The youngest lad of the Kapoor clan Ranbir needs no formal introduction. With just 2 (big banner) movies – SAAWARIYA and BACHNA AE HASEENO Ranbir has made quite an impressive mark in the industry.

Though his debut film SAAWARIYA failed to do well at the box office but he received many positive reviews for his outstanding performance in his very first film. Especially, his towel dance act which stole many hearts. He became an overnight star, with number of big profile producers queuing up to sign him up.

His second outing BACHNA.. proved his ticket to Box–office success after SAAWARIYA's commercial failure. Ranbir's 'charmer' act in the film worked in a large way towards the success of the film.

And with that he emerged out as the next big thing for Bollywood. And now he is being touted as the future of Indian Cinema.

With the swelling success and bright future ahead, this female–charmer is surely happy to celebrate his 26th birthday which falls on 28th September with great joy. And it is heard that this birthday will become all the more special as momy dearest Neetu Singh has arranged a small party for his darling son where his current girlfriend Deepika Padukone would also make her warm presence.

So all those females out there be the first one to wish the handsome hunk Ranbir Kapoor loads of happiness and a wonderful birthday.

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Salman Khan's Eid celebration in Paris

After working round the clock and completing the shooting of Subhash Ghai's magnum–opus, YUVVRAAJ, Salman Khan is now busy with Vipul Shah's LONDON DREAMS, which will see him share screen space with super actor, Ajay Devgan. Salman is in the French capital Paris, where the shooting of LONDON DREAMS is taking place.

With the holy month of Ramzan almost over and the anticipatory Eid celebrations in full swing, Salman's Mumbai friends and relatives will definitely miss his grand Eid party which he is known to throw every year. But, Salman has decided to host a small get–together (on Eid) in his Paris hotel room and the whole unit of the film has been invited.

The cast and crew of LONDON DREAMS will be lucky enough to get a taste of traditional Muslim delicacies, which will include Salman Khan's favourite, 'Biryani'. The magnanimous Khan has decided to get in contact with Indian chefs in Paris and make his Eid in the capital of love a memorable event!

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Shilpa Shetty And Abhishek Bachchan On The Sets Of Bigg Boss

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Karan Johar walks the ramp for Rohit Bal's fashion show

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Akshay Kumar bags the CNBC Awaaz Consumer Award

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IMPPA honours Rekha, Prakash Mehra, Madhur, Bhushan Kumar

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On Lata Mangeshkar's 79th birthday on Sunday, Javed Akhtar pays homage to the voice that has nurtured his soul

"Normally artistes strive for perfection. Only Lata Mangeshkar has achieved it. There're no boundaries to her excellence and reach. You know Hindi film music is so deeply rooted to our life and culture… When I go to foreign countries and to very exclusive gatherings of NRIs who are deeply conscious of their status and position, they invariably lose their inhibitions once everyone starts singing songs. More than cinema, I think Indians all over the world are bonded by film songs. Film music outlives cinema. Today we remember Lataji's songs. But not the films they belong to. No matter how much we revere Lataji, we cannot even begin to evaluate her contribution to Indian cinema and ethos. Her body of work is beyond awesome. Listen to the nostalgia channel in Wordspace Music. 80 percent of the songs are by Lataji. She has proved perfection is possible in this imperfect world. Sometimes I think people like Lataji, Ghalib, Beethoven and Shakespeare are far removed from the normal chain of human civilization. If they were just role models, how come no one was able to achieve an iota of their perfection? They are a kind of intruders who come as reminders of the rule of mediocrity that prevails. Lataji belongs to a different league.

I'll tell you an incident that Pandit Jasraj narrated to me when from the 1950s. He was in Amritsar when he met to meet the classical genius Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan who was his God. After Pandit Jasraj got talking, Bade Ghulam Ali Saab suddenly told the young man to keep quiet. He heard the sound of the young Lata Mangeshkar singing 'Yeh Zindagi Usski Ki Hai' from Anarkali. Bade Ghulam Ali Khan was enraptured. He finally said, 'Kambhakt, kabhi besuri hoti hi nahin'. That remark had the affection of a father and the envy of an artiste. I remember meeting a music scholar Chaman Bharti in Bhopal. I asked him what he found so special about Lata Mangeshkar. He explained, 'If you take a strand of hair and put it under a microscope, there would be center to that magnified view of the strand of hair. Sur kitna bhi bareeq ho usska jo exact center hai wahan Lata Mangeshkar gaati hai."

Post your Birthday wishes for Lata Mangeshkar in the comments section

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Farhan Akhtar on the cover of Andpersand

Words like rockstar, hot, professional, all fall short for him. He is much more and way beyond it all. Farhan Akhtar can set the 'stage' on fire and we've all borne witness to that.

Very rarely would you find a person with so much talent in him. Be it acting, singing, dancing, directing, writing or playing music, he excels in everything! And now Farhan is on the cover of the September issue of Andpersand looking as hot as ever. It's only a wonder how he manages to do everything so well.

In this month's issue of Andpersand, Farhan talks about his latest film, Rock On, and his ideas on music. So don't miss the September edition.

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Kareena does a Jolie

Kareena Kapoor, Bollywood’s blazing trendsetter, is herself stepping into Hollywood hottie Angelina Jolie’s shoes.

Not by doing a Lara Croft, but by lending her voice to India’s first animation film Roadside Romeo which is being directed for Yash Chopra productions by child star and actor Jugal Hansraj.

Kareena admitted she was hugely inspired to do this by Jolie who, recently, was heard in the popular Hollywood kids’ animation film Kung-fu Panda. And to get her act perfect, Kareena watched Kung-fu Panda several times to study how Jolie successfully delivered her dialogues.

The Bollywood diva also heard the story and understood the character she was dubbing for because she knew that it was her voice that would put across all the emotion and drama required in the animation film. Studio hands, at the end of her work, gave Kareena a thumbs-up in approval.

“It was fun dubbing for this film,” revealed Kareena. “It’s the first time an actress has dubbed for an animation film and since it was a first of sorts, it was particularly challenging.” What she is not saying, however, is that Saif Ali Khan has also lent his voice to Roadside Romeo... and for the character who romances Kareena’s on screen! Isn’t that cute?

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Bollywood's next superstar!

Well if you are keen to know as to who would lead the future of Indian Cinema than here's the answer to your question. Just 2 movies old Ranbir Kapoor, the youngest lad of Kapoor clan, is being touted as the next big thing of Bollywood!!

If the current reports are to be believed than this handsome Kapoor has been voted as the future of Indian cinema, according to a reputed magazine poll conducted recently. Ranbir bagged the maximum votes in this survey which declared him the next Superstar of Bollywood leaving behind the teen sensations Shahid Kapoor and Imran Khan in the race.

According to the survey results every 4th moviegoer feels that Ranbir Kapoor has the potentials of being the next superstar. It is being said that after winning several hearts with his mind– blowing performance in BACHNA AE HASEENO and SAAWARIYA the young Kapoor seems to be a unanimous choice, well almost!

Do you agree? If not, CLAIM YOUR CHOICE

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Imran Khan's car damaged

Nothing fazes Imran Khan. Not even a road accident. On Thursday afternoon, as he was being driven to the venue of his rehearsals for Abhinay Deo's Delhi Belly, a speeding vehicle bumped into his vehicle from behind, damaging his car's bumper and scratching the paint.

"There was some damage to the car, yes," admitted Imran. "This happened right in front of Tulip Star hotel. Vehicles came to a standstill and we came down from our cars. I was in a hurry to reach my rehearsals. So we exchanged addresses and I'll be taking up the matter with him later."

So did the guy who caused the accident recognise the newest star on the block? "Nah, he was in too much a hurry and too flustered by what had happened," says the star in a hurry. On the work front, Imran doesn't deny his rumoured remuneration per film: a whopping Rs 12 crores. "Money is not the criteria.

It's what I'm comfortable doing. And after Kidnap and Luck, it's only Aamir's Delhi Belly I've said yes to." Imran desperately needs a holiday. In fact his new best buddy and mentor Sanjay Dutt invited Imran for a vacation. Imran refused. "Sanju Dutt has gone on a safari into the jungles of Tanzania and the Congo in Africa.

He asked me to come along. But here I am battling publicity interviews, rehearsals and a damaged car. Tough luck."

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Aamir Khan watches Kidnap!

In keeping with his past (the Yash Raj tradition of absolute secrecy) director Sanjay Gadhvi has not shown his latest film Kidnap to anyone except for Aamir Khan who has seen the final cut. He was the first to view it. The action thriller stars Sanjay Dutt, Imran Khan and Minissha Lamba.

It is learnt that Aamir came down specially to watch the film at Gadhvi's Lokhandwala home. Khan arrived alone for the screening. Apart from Gadhvi and Aamir, Kidnapproducer Raj Mehta (Ashtavinayak) was the only other person present. Aamir arrived at around 7 pm and after chatting for a while saw the film and was there till 2 am discussing it.

Says Gadhvi, "Yes, it's true that Aamir has seen Kidnap. I called him over especially for it. He was invited not because his nephew Imran is part of the project. But because I believe he knows what is good cinema. I consider him as a well-wisher."

After the screening, Aamir SMSed Imran about his performance and praised him. "Yes, mamu has seen Kidnap. He messaged me saying he liked the film and that I had done a good job. For me it was a big compliment even better than Jaane Tu where mamu had just said 'not bad'.

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Big B will have another perfume to his name soon

On September 2002, French perfume brand Lomani launched a floral-spicy blend after Amitabh Bachchan called Amitabh B Pour Homme (for men) and Amitabh. B Pour Femme (for women). Bachchan is currently in Paris finalising another deal. The actor will soon have another fragrance by his name a distinction few stars can boast about.

Lomani's Bachchan perfume was priced at Rs 795 a bottle. It even became quite popular.

Talking about the launch of his second perfume, he says, "I do not know what name it will go by; that is still under discussion, but yes the fragrance will be a different one."

Does his family use Amitabh B? "My family and I have used my perfume and still continue to do so. We are now at the end of our stock and cannot procure any more because it sold out. Guess we shall have to wait for the new one now."

Talking about the fragrance that he will go for this time Bachchan says, "In the initial talks I've had with the manufacturers, I have desired a stronger fragrance. India is a warm country and subtle fragrances tend to evaporate very fast. I have been given a few samples to test and shall indicate my preference at a later stage."

Bachchan has also been visiting perfume factories on his last couple of visits to Paris to select the kind of perfume he wants. He says, "Yes I have visited several factories both on private visits and on professional ones too."

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Saif and Kareena meet the Jawans at Kargil

On the eve of Kareena's 28th birthday, her mom Babita suggested that she should make it really special. Not only did she have Saif accompanying her in the cold climates of north India, but she also got the opportunity to share her birthday with the numerous Jawans who were present at Kargil. Both Kareena and Saif really enjoyed and felt privileged to have spent time in the midst of these brave soldiers, who defend our country.

On asking Kareena, she said, "As we were passing by Kargil one day prior to my birthday, mom told me to visit the Jawans as it would be a unique experience and a once in a lifetime opportunity to get their blessings as well. Both Saif and I were excited as well as amazed with the way the soldiers live in such extreme climates and still manage to keep calm under pressure, which gives us an immense sense of pride. We wish them luck and not just them but all the soldiers of our country and wish to thank them for all that they have sacrificed and done for us - the people."

That must have been indeed 'Special' both for Kareena and the Jawans.

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Abhishek or Imran

Come 2nd October and Bollywood would witness yet another interesting clash between the two biggies Abhishek–Priyanka starrer DRONA and Sanjay–Imran starrer KIDNAP. A lot has been written and talked about both these films. Apart from the fact that both are set to hit the screens on same day, the one thing which is being widely raved about is the new look of either of the actors – Abishek Bachchan and Imran Khan.

A lot of time and money was spent behind the styling of each of these actors.

While Abhishek sports an unconventional organic look for his superhero act in DRONA than the cute kidnapper Imran dons a complete funky and trendy attire.

Abhishek's look in DRONA is inspired by the traditional Indian bridegroom and medieval warriors, contrary to what most western superheroes wear. Imran's styling has been given a western touch keeping current fashion in mind.

If Abhishek's vintage look with an earthy appeal absorbs one's attention than Imran's dashing new avatar with a tattoo on his neck, a muscular body with stubbled face sporting a Mohawk haircut is definitely mesmerizing.

Both the female charmers are looking absolutely stunning and hot.

Well drawing comparisons between the two is unfair, but still we would like to hear from you gals what you feel, who deserves the maximum compliments.

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Bollywood's first underwater song

At the moment Zayed Khan is the happiest and the unhappiest actor from Bollywood. He's on top of the world because he'll soon be shooting the first underwater song- sequence ever in Hindi cinema.

Excited as hell Zayed who has been stationed in Bangkok and Phuket for the past month says, "It's never been done before. On the concept level itself, it sounds too outrageous... The entire cast singing in the deep-sea. That's unique-man!" Hate to burst Zayed's bubble. But decades ago in Anmol Moti claiming to be India's first underwater film Jeetendra and Babita sang 'underwater', which was actually a swimming pool. So yes, Blue is the first Bollywood film that will have the entire cast of Sanjay Dutt, Akshay Kumar, Lara, Katrina and Zayed doing a song sequence in the deep sea. A baffling concept for sure.

Laughs Zayed, "Yes. But you've to see how we're going to do it. The director got the concept from an ad. We all jumped at it. It's not often that you get to do something so unique." But with the excitement comes the damper. Inclement weather in Bangkok is playing havoc with the Blue schedules. Says the anxious and depressed Zayed, "We knew it was going to rain in Bangkok and Phuket. But not like this! Apparently, this area has never had so much rain. Everyday we're losing precious time. Today again, we're stuck indoors while it pours outside. The producers are losing Rs. 25 lakhs per day. And moreover we can't extend the shooting because we-Sanju Sir, Akshay and I-can't give combined dates for a long time," said Zayed on Saturday.

A good excuse for the unit to bond? "Not really. I'd rather be back home with my wife Malli (Malaika) and son Zidaan. I miss them specially my son. I want to watch him grow, not be away for long periods from home, and miss this phase in my son's life." Zidaan can't travel with Papa all the time. "He came with my wife to the Bahamas when we were shooting there. But he can't keep traveling all over. He has to develop an immunity system. I do miss my son. But my wife emails me his pictures everyday."

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Katrina Destroyed gossip makers

Destroying all the talk of she being thrown out of Shah Rukh Khan's Temptations Reloaded World Tour after the relationship of Salman and Shah Rukh went sour at her birthday party and Salman Khan not allowing her to be part of any film having his rivals, Katrina Kaif has shown that she is a hardcore professional.

Katrina has gone ahead and agreed for a Yashraj flick having SRK in the lead role.

The untitled movie to be directed by Yash Chopra also has John Abraham in a prominent role.

She will also be sharing the stage with Shah Rukh for a performance at Bhutan during the coronation day of the new king Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuk.

Both the top stars of Bollywood have been invited to Bhutan as the king in waiting is a big fan of Hindi films and he wanted SRK and Katrina to be present during the ceremony.

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Dilip Kumar hospitalized in New Delhi

Bollywood's thespian and legendary actor, Dilip Kumar was admitted last night at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi.

Speaking to Bollywood Hungama, the spokesperson of the hospital said, "Dilip saab was admitted in a private room and not in the ICU, as reported by a certain section of the media. He had high fever at the time of his admission. But he is perfectly OK now." Sources also add that the actor had gone there for the treatment of a urinary infection.

Here's wishing the Original Superstar of Bollywood a speedy recovery! Get well soon, Dilip saab!

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"The 12 Minute Long Song"

Kajol, Rani Mukherjee, Preity Zinta and Priyanka Chopra will pay a tribute to yesteryear actresses like Nargis, Sharmila Tagore and Waheeda Rehman in the Shah Rukh Khan starrer, Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi

We were the first to tell you that Shah Rukh Khan will be paying a tribute to five yesteryear superstars in a 12-minute-long special song in Aditya Chopra's Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi. And to make the song bigger, Aditya Chopra has decided to include four top actresses to join Shah Rukh in the song.

After Kajol who was the first actress to be finalised to be part of the ambitious song, Aditya Chopra has also signed Rani Mukherjee, Preity Zinta and Priyanka Chopra for the song. The actresses will pay a tribute to yesteryear actresses like Nargis, Sharmila Tagore, Waheeda Rehman and others.

A source said, "Aditya had already recorded the song some months ago with Sonu Nigam. In the song, Shah Rukh Khan pays a tribute to actors like Raj Kapoor, Dev Anand, Shammi Kapoor, Rajesh Khanna and Rishi Kapoor. And the song will pay not only pay a tribute to the yesteryear actors and actresses but also famous singers. Sonu, who has sung the song, has paid a tribute to legendary singers like Mukesh, Rafi and Jolly Mukherjee."

"Now Yash Raj Films has also signed Kajol, Rani Mukherjee, Preity Zinta and Priyanka Chopra to star with Shah Rukh in the song. These leading ladies will be paying a tribute to some of the most talented actresses like Nargis, Waheeda Rehman and Sharmila Tagore. The song is one the biggest highlights of the film. The song is composed by Salim-Suleiman," added the source.

When contacted, Monica Bhatacharya, the official spokesperson of Yash Raj Films said, "Yes, some of the people you mentioned are doing something in the film. But we would not like to disclose who they are or what exactly are they doing in Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi."

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Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is in and on 'Vogue'

Aishwarya Rai, may have stopped wearing the crown a year after she was declared Miss World 1994 but she continues to rule hearts, in India and abroad, as a symbol breathtaking beauty and awe inspiring glamour that is quintessentially Indian.

So it is no surprise that Vogue India chose her to grace their first anniversary issue cover.

The 34-year-old Bollywood star, hailed by many as the most beautiful woman in the world, was photographed by Farrokh Chothia for the October issue of the magazine, dubbed the Glamour issue.

Speaking on her experience shooting for the Glamour issue, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan said, "Glamour is innate - it's an extension of your attitude, your persona. You've got to be yourself. Any veneer you have will crack, eventually. It's got to stand the test of time."

Picking Aishwarya as the cover girl was probably a no brainer for Vogue India Editor, Priya Tanna. When you are looking for the headiest blend of glamour and beauty all GPS systems lead you to wherever Aishwarya is in this world!

"Right from our selection of India's 50 most glamorous women to our exclusive interviews with Marc Jacobs, Shah Rukh Khan and John Galliano, this issue is packed with the world's most glamorous people-people for whom India is inspiring and exciting", says Priya. "Who better to grace the cover of this mega-issue than India's most famous and beautiful face, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, who stopped in the middle of her successful Unforgettable tour to shoot her first Vogue cover and talk with us about how glamour has changed her life."

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Hollywood knows only Aishwarya: Bipasha

Bollywood's dusky beauty Bipasha Basu has carved a niche for herself in Hindi cinema and says she has no intentions of going to Hollywood because filmmakers there are familiar with only one Indian actor - Aishwarya Rai.

"No filmmakers of Hollywood are willing to sign any Bollywood actor without a screen test apart from Aishwarya. They seem to know no Hindi film actors, not even Amitabh Bachchan," Bipasha told IANS.

"I got a chance to go there, but I found out that I will have start again from scratch like screen tests and other tantrums. They treat you like a newcomer. So I decided to stay in Mumbai and be the 'queen' here," said the actress who was in town to promote Bachna Ae Haseeno.

Talking about the film with newcomer Ranbir Kapoor, Bipasha said she signed on because she hadn't done a romantic movie for quite some time.

"I haven't done an out-an-out romantic film for a long time so when I heard the script of this film, I found it a little fresh.

"I play Radhika, who comes all the way from Ranchi to Mumbai to become an actor. But she ends up being a member of (choreographer) Shiamak Davar's dance troupe."

Bipasha doesn't seem to mind sharing screen space with two other actresses - Minissha Lamba and Deepika Padukone in the film.

"I am okay with even a 10-minute role provided I get an apt character and my share of attention on screen. Anyway, if you are a Bollywood heroine, you have very limited choice. I was intelligent enough to realise it long back and hence am picking up roles that look good on-screen," she said.

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Aishwarya Rai hurries her Robot shoot to join Abhishek for Drona premiere!

Aishwarya Rai is currently wrapping her Robot film shoot in hurry to arrive back in India, just to be with her hubby, Abhishek Bachchan on October 1st for his film, Drona’s premiere in Mumbai.

Confirming us the news, Aish’s secretary Hari Singh said, “Aishwarya was in Peru till last week for a song shoot of Shankar’s Endhiran (formerly called Robot) starring South super star Rajnikant. Now presently she is shooting for the film in the rain forests of Brazil. She wants to be with Abhishek’s side on his big day on October 1st. She is as excited as him to check him out in his first super hero avatar”.

One can remember, Abhishek making a late entry for Aishwarya’s Jodhaa Akbar premiere held on February 14th at the Imax Multiplex in Wadala, Mumbai. Abhishek was shooting in Jaipur that time for Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra’s Dilli 6. He was to reach on time but a flight delay made him arrive at the venue at around 11:30 pm just when the film was about to finish.

But Aish won’t be late and will attend the premiere along with Abhi. As Hari Singh has added, “Aishwarya will be reaching Mumbai a night before the premiere”.

A source further added, “Before the grand premiere, a special show will be kept just for the Bachchans. Amitabh and Jaya early next week at a Mumbai preview theatre by director Goldie Behl. Goldie is like family to the Bachchans and he wants to show them the film first before anyone else. Abhishek is a bundle of nerves and would most probably avoid being present at this special show”.

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Imraan refuses Yashraj

Imraan Khan does not want to go the Hrithik Roshan way. Like Hrithik, Imraan had a great debut. But unlike Hrithik, Imraan does not want to sign on any film coming his way even if they are from big banners. Hrithik signed with reknowned banners like Subhash Ghai(Yaadein), Sooraj Barjatiya(Mein Prem Ki Diwani Hoon) and Kunal Kohli(Mujhse Dosti Karoge) and all of them bombed. And Imran certainly does not want to follow that route.

If sources are to be believed the actor has just turned down a subject offered to him by the Yashraj banner with the reason that he did not like the script. Imraan was approached by Aditya Chopra a few months before the release of his debut film Jaane Tu Yaa Jaane Naa with three story ideas. Imraan approved one of them which was then sent to the writers to be further scripted.

However just few weeks back a narration was given to him but the actor did not quite like it.

Imraan Khan who is eagerly awaiting the release of his second film when asked if Yashraj approached him with the project, said `` I don't think it is right to talk about projects that are not confirmed.''

When quizzed further if the project that was offered to him was not liked by him and apparently has said no to the film, Imraan said, `` I don't think it is right to talk about projects that are either in development or a project that did not happen. As it stands today I have no commitments after Delhi belly.''

So the big question is, has Imraan refused the Yashraj banner? Watch this space for more on this...

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Preity can cook

Preity Zinta was on a different wicket for sometime, the cricket wicket!

But she has returned for an innings in Bollywood. The actress will next be seen in Heroes, where she plays a typical gaon ki chhori, so much so that when PZ was required to make some chapattis on a traditional clay stove, unit members wondered what and how the chapattis would finally look like!

Everyone was shocked when Preity managed it beautifully. “They were perfectly round, and tasted good,” said director Sameer Karnik, who discovered only then that Preity can cook! Time for an innings in the kitchen next, PZ?

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Deepika in Delhi!

Humne bola tha na? That Deepika Padukone will be here in Delhi to shoot for Imtiaz Ali’s untitled film? Well, she’s is here and is doing just that. Deepika arrived on Sunday.

And she has a nine-day shooting schedule in Delhi. She has already shot her part at Red Fort, Purana Quila, the Gurudwara behind Humayun’s tomb, near Ina Market and Mehrauli. She’s got two days of shooting at the Lodhi Gardens and the Ashok Hotel left.

Deepika looked relaxed and happy, and asked our lensman if we’d been there on other days of shooting too. And since Delhiites are a part of many scenes, people came by clicking for Deepika and Imtiaz’s photos. “The rain has spoilt some of our plans, and shooting has been delayed more than once,” revealed a unit member, adding, “People asked us if we could take pictures of themselves with Imtiaz and Deepika. She changed her dress thrice today.” The dress we have (in the pic) is the last one. Also, Deepika doesn’t forget those she loves even when working. She managed to select a gift (for whom, Deepika?) in one of the shops. Then, she sat with Imtiaz, who began to explain the next scene to her.

And now, we’ve got more starry news for you. Saif Ali Khan, who along with Dinesh Vijan (Illuminati Films pvt ltd), is the producer of Imtiaz’s film, will be in town shortly. Saif is currently shooting in Srinagar. As we’d told you before, Kareena will also be in Delhi this week to meet sis Karisma. So with Bebo here, can Saif be far behind?

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Priyanka Chopra gets rid of her horse riding fear

By now its common knowledge that the gorgeous Priyanka Chopra plays Abhishek Bachchan's bodyguard in the fantasy adventure Drona. Priyanka would be seen doing some deadly action sequences in this flick which opens across cinema halls on Oct 2.

While Priyanka didn't have any real problems doing the stunts all by herself, she got a little nervous when she came to know that she would have to ride a horse for one of the sequences in the film. Strangely, no one on the sets of Drona knew that Priyanka is scared of riding a horse. Hence, the nervous look on her face on the day of the actual shoot came as a shock to all the crew members present.

Explaining this amusing incident, director Goldie Behl recalls, "Since the day we started shooting for Drona, Priyanka was very confident about all her action and fighting scenes. She was very confident until we started shooting for this scene where she was supposed to ride a horse. She suddenly got very edgy with the idea of riding a horse; that was when we realized that Priyanka was actually scared of horses. The horse sequence was very prominent for the scene, hence we couldn't think of not having it. After a creative discussion, Priyanka finally agreed and actually shot for the entire sequence. Once the camera rolled, no one could make out that she was scared and I must say she shot like a pro."

Looks like after this incident Priyanka has surely emerged a much stronger and braver girl.

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Exclusive: Ash shooting for a song with Rajnikanth for 'Robot'!

The moment one mentions of the word Robot, the first thing that comes to mind is that of gadgets and gizmos. But the south India based ace director Shankar has vowed to change it all, for he is making a movie with the same name and stars none other than…hold your breath... Rajnikanth and Aishwarya Rai! OK...you can breathe now. For those who wake up to Bollywood know about the controversy dodging this film. But for the innocent and ignorant ones, here it goes. The film was initially to star SRK nonetheless. But due to 'creative differences' (read 'unmentionable differences'), he opted out of the film. Not just that, SRK reportedly also registered all the names that sounds even remotely like 'Robots'. The news is that now Shankar has renamed the film as Enthiram. Exit SRK and in comes Shivaji Rao Gaekwad better known as Rajnikanth, the man with a tagline of 'There's nothing that Rajni-CANT!'

Shankar, on his part is leaving no stone unturned as far as the shooting of the film is concerned. Recently, he shot for a song with the awesome twosome of Rajni-Ash at the UNESCO declared world famous heritage site Machu Pichhu. With this, Shankar takes the man responsible for shooting the first Indian film here! Whoever said that ostriches are not desirable will surely eat their words out, after they have a look at Ash (who looks simply awesome with those ostrich feathers) in the adjoining picture! Not just that, news also has it that Shankar will be shooting for his film in the most desirable (read 'dream') locations like Peru, South America etc...

One wonders will SRK's loss be Rajni's gain? Well, is that a question to be asked!

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"I was a little hesitant to play a kidnapper as I was a bit unsure" - Imran Khan

Imran Khan is on time. It's 9.30 am at Shree Ashtavinayak's office. The nation's press is eager to meet him and quiz him on his second film Kidnap. It's a step away from the usual cute boy-next-door role that Imran has cornered the market in, ever since he became an instant star with Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Na. He is sporting a beard and long hair for his next film Delhi Belly. But it's Kidnap which is giving him the shivers at the moment. He sits on the sofa folding his legs, gets comfortable and recalls his days with me in London while he came for Jaane Tu promotions. The same smile, the same personality, the same style but a very different Imran Khan this time - bold, matured and fearless and ready to take on the Press. In this exclusive tete-a-tete, Bollywood Hungama's London Correspondent Devansh Patel met the teenage Khan and asked him - Khan you do it one more time?

So what rules are you going to set for us while we watch Kidnap?
What rules do I set? You'll have to wait and see this one man! This is a really tricky film. In that I have to be very careful with every question that I answer because I might give something away. So much of the film relies on mystery and the audiences not knowing what's going on. It's like a minefield. Every single question you ask has to be analysed.

Is the battle inevitable? Drona v/s Kidnap and Abhishek Bachchan v/s Imran Khan?
Every single Friday a film releases. There are many Friday's where three to four films are released. This comparison business is inevitable. There are more films than the weekends in the year. There are going to be clashes, there will be films releasing on the same day, you make your film and promote it the best that you can and make sure that it is the best you can possibly make and hope for the best. That is what is going to happen when two biggies meet on October 2.

Kidnap's scripting has been in the making since five years. Don't you think that Kidnap is releasing a bit late or do you take it as a bonus after your JTYJN success?
Two things. Firstly, it's a tremendous bonus for me. It gives me a chance and a challenge to stretch myself to the limit. Nothing like it. Secondly, when it comes to late, I don't think so. Jaane Tu also took a long time coming together. We had a lot of problem while we were making that film. The project got stuck and then it got restarted. But in spite of that the film touched success only because the product was good. We all feel the same way about Kidnap. Certainly you have to update a few things. Now say from 2003 to 2005, few things changed. Technology changes a little bit and you have to update those little things. But the base story of the film never changes.

Studio 18's last film in the U.K grossed over a million pounds. Will its Midas touch work on Kidnap too?
Studio 18 has got a killer line up this year. They got Singh is Kinng and Kidnap. They've got Ghajini too and I bet they're going to be very happy by the end of this year.

Why go for a tanned look in Kidnap?
Thanks to Vicky, my make up artist, I looked perfectly tanned. My director Sanjay Gadhvi had a particular look in mind. He wanted me to look harder and meaner. You can see my hair cut. It's buzzed on the sides. That made my face look different. It made my face look sharper. The darker skin colour gave me a tougher look.

Is Kidnap a hard core action flick?
No its not. There are a few action pieces but it's not an action film. It's a kind of a drama thriller with two or three action sequences.

What did you learn from the father figure like co-star Sanjay Dutt?
I didn't learn anything from him. He doesn't preach. If you know him at all and have tracked his career, you'll come to the conclusion that he is a guy who has walked his own path. He is very much the rebel, very much the rock star. He does it his way and the way he wants to do it. Sanju baba is not the one who is going to go around telling people how to live their lives.

Tell me something interesting about Sanjay Dutt.
Ok. Here you go. We are doing a scene together and I'll sit with my dialogues for 45 minutes before I get ready. I'll march up and down the stairs doing rehearsals and reciting my lines this way - that way, taking a pause here and there. Sanju baba will walk on the sets and the assistant director will hand over the dialogues to him. He will sit and read through it once. We then do the scene where I say my lines and he'll say his line and look at me with sheer intensity that I forget the rest of my lines. Such is the weight of this actor. The gravity he brings with him shocks you.

The cute Minissha Lamba is out and the sexy Minissha Lamba is in. What say?
Definitely she is sexy. But having said that, she is not a damsel in distress. There is a major confrontation scene between me and Minissha. She is not a girl who is kidnapped. She is very much Sanjay Dutt's daughter. She is fearless and fights back with a vengeance. Sanjay Dutt's character is like a very tough and a fearless guy. Like father like daughter. She doesn't submit that easily and looks for a way out to escape, she looks for a way to hurt the kidnapper, etc. Yes, a tough and a sexy Minissha for the first time on screen.

Tell us a bit about the tattoo you sport in the film.
That's a permanent tattoo. I got it when I was seventeen. I've had it for years. It's just that in Jaane Tu, it didn't suit my character. We tried to cover it with make up and my costumes. That's why I was seen wearing lots of collared t-shirts in the film. The shot where you see my tattoo in the trailer was in fact the last scene we shot for the film. It was the last day of the shooting and we shot it in the middle of the night. After that shot, it was pack up. The film was over. Sanjay Gadhvi decided to use the tattoo because he knew that it was covered and hidden in Jaane Tu. He liked the look of the tattoo and he thought that it would add to the character of the kidnapper.

A few weeks back we also saw another thriller drama release in the form of 'A Wednesday' which was well received by the public. Do you think people are now willing to experiment with different genres and Kidnap will see the same results?
Kidnap is not that different from I'd say A Wednesday. It's still a very commercial film though. Sanjay Gadhvi is in that space and likes to make commercial blockbusters and he is very clear about that. Kidnap is different in way as there is less concessions to the audiences. There is always an idea that we are making a serious film or a thriller or an action flick then you have to put in the romance and comedy element to give the audience a break. It is very demeaning and Kidnap is not that.

Then what about songs?
There are songs in the film but I don't sing or dance. 'Mit Jaaye' is not a part of the film because it comes in the end credits. But there are two songs with Sanjay Dutt. One is shown in the flashback and the other is a situational number. Then there is Minissha's introduction song. There is no place for 'Mit Jaaye' in the film because the theme and the tune of that song is used as the theme of Kidnap. So it's there throughout in the background music.

Were you hesitant to play a kidnapper knowing your chocolate boy looks?
I was a little hesitant to play a kidnapper. I mean, I loved the character but was a bit unsure. But at the same time I really wanted to do it. It was a tricky role and was tough too because I couldn't find a common ground with this guy. In Jaane Tu, the guy was so much like me. I understood him very well. In Kidnap, I was fumbling and trying to hold things together. In this tough time, Sanjay Gadhvi helped me through this. I wouldn't have been able to do this role without his support and backing.

Any research work went into your character for Kidnap?
There was no research which I could do for this character. There was a closed room on the fifth floor of the Ashtavinayak office where Minissha, Gadhvi and myself thrashed out our characters. For my own part to find the aggression with my character, I changed the music I was listening to in my I-Pod. About a year, I was only listening to metal and rock to get the darkness and the aggression.

Tell us about the time when you thought that Kidnap was not going to be made?
The entire film took about 12 months of shooting time. It took a year because Sanju went in the jail mid way. We thought the film was not going to be made now. We had shot for about five months and we were in middle of one major shoot with Minissha and me when we got the news that the judgement had come out and that Sanju was jailed. Suddenly everything stops. We didn't know what was going to happen. I am panicking as it was just my second film. It was Minissha's big film too and it was Sanjay Gadhvi's dream project. Plus the producers made a huge investment too. So all of us were sitting there and went mute. We asked each other, What do we do? What next? The worst thing was that there was no body who could take Sanju's place. There were no options available. The only thing you could do was just sit and pray and hope that he comes out.

Is Kidnap a lot of burden on your shoulders than Jaane Tu?
I wasn't nervous during Jaane Tu at all. This time I am very nervous because I don't know how I have done my role. I have not seen the film and have only seen my parts during dubbing. I don't know if it's good and I don't know if people will think it's good.

Why are you growing your beard then?
Oh! This look while you are interviewing me is for Delhi Belly. I am growing my beard and growing my hair for the role. I have to keep growing it until I hear back from my director. So everyday I go to my director and say whether it's enough and he says, 'No'.

Any message for your fans in the U.K who loved Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Na and are eagerly awaiting to see you in Kidnap?
You know Jaane Tu didn't fare well in the U.K? It wasn't well accepted there. So here's a message for them. It's hard to give a good reason why one should go and watch Kidnap because it's quite subjective. This time around I'd ask them to be kind because I'm really nervous about Kidnap. Hope Kidnap does fare well than Jaane Tu in the U.K.

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Mani Ratnam's next is a love triangle

Now here's some exclusive info and as always, it's first on 'Bollywood Buzz'.

Mani Ratnam's projects are always a well-guarded secret. In fact, those associated with the film are sworn to secrecy. Right from the star cast to the subject, everything about the film is kept under wraps, away from the prying eyes of the media.

There's talk in the industry circles that Mani is making a costume drama, but that's far from true. The truth is, the film is a love triangle and will star the GURU team of Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan with the top actor from South, Vikram. The shooting is expected to commence shortly.

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Saif watches as Kareena marries Sharman!

Please have faith in our headline because that is exactly what happened yesterday (Tuesday). While boyfriend Saif Ali Khan watched from a distance, not doing anything, Kareena Kapoor married Sharman Joshi!

Time for some clarifications now. Just yesterday we had told you that the unit of Raju Hirani's 3 IDIOTS was likely to reach the Himachal Pradesh capital Shimla at the first available opportunity. And that is how it has happened. The venue was Shimla's Hotel Woodville Palace (where Amitabh's BLACK was also shot) and the scene being canned was that of Sharman Joshi and Kareena Kapoor taking the seven 'pheras', as per proper Hindu marriage rituals. While the wedding sequence was being shot, Saif Ali Khan was seen hanging around the sets.

As per our unit sources, Kareena had arrived in Shimla (from Ladakh) with Saif and after the shooting was over, they were together throughout the day, enjoying the now clear Shimla weather.

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Rakhi Sawant leads ICL cheerleaders from front

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Rakhi Sawant to lead ICL cheerleaders' squad

The Indian Cricket League (ICL) on Tuesday unveiled its indigenous cheerleaders' squad ICL Zeebras that will be led by Bollywood oomph star Rakhi Sawant as its "Queen Cheerleader".

The squad will be present at every match of the second season of the league that begins in Hyderabad on October 10, an ICL statement on Tuesday said.

“Cheerleading is not just tamasha (mindless drama). It is a sport by itself. Until now, it was the exclusive domain of the international cheerleading troupes. But, thanks to ICL, this country will now have an indigenous cheerleaders' squad,” Sawant said in the statement.

The ICL Zeebra squad comprises eight other cheerleaders - Ritika, Preeti, Jessica, Geeta, Richa, Sharvari, Jayshree and Sangeeta. They will perform across all the match venues of Gurgaon, Panchkula, Hyderabad and Ahmedabad.

Sawant has personally auditioned and hand-picked the squad members and their performances will be designed by a Mumbai-based choreographer.

“It was after my performance at Panchkula during ICL's Season 1 that I saw a huge opportunity for a possible Indian cheerleading squad," the actress said.

“That dialogue resumed a few months later and culminated in the formation of the ICL Zeebras. I can't wait to don my Zeebra outfit and break into a jig every time Rohan (Gavaskar) or Raviraj (Patil) hits a six. I am sure, this will be one cheerleading squad that the country will remember for a long time,” she added.

Shariq Patel, ICL's senior vice president (Marketing & Operations), said: “Cheerleaders have a significant role to play in the modern context of sports. The ICL Zeebras squad includes some extremely talented and graceful dancers. I am confident that this synergistic initiative between cricket and entertainment will formulate a completely new experience for sports fans of the country.

“Our new initiative 'Cricket Hai Meri Life' has been supported with a Rs.50 crore (Rs. 500 million) marketing campaign. This will be the new mantra for young cricketers at ICL,” Patel added.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that governs the game in India has barred ICL players from turning out in domestic and international matches. At BCCI's instance, the governing boards of other cricket playing nations have declared a similar ban.

BCCI conducts the official Indian Premier League (IPL) that was a roaring success at its inaugural season earlier this year.

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Manisha is single Ready to mingle

Manisha Koirala has split with golfer boyfriend Chris, whom she has been dating over the past one year. The actress made the announcement herself on her Facebook account. Manisha's status on Facebook has now gone from being In A Relationship to Single.

Sources reveal that one of the major reasons for the relationship failing was distance. Chris, a professional golfer, was constantly touring in the US, while Manisha was spening most of her time in Mumbai, as she has a few things lined up, professionally. The split was a mutual decision and the couple remain in touch with each other.

Earlier this year, Manisha had attended the US Open golf championship with Chris. A source reveals, "Chris and Manisha were really committed. In fact, Chris had got really close to her family and even attended her brother's wedding. She was happy that her family approved of him as well."

After having failed relationships in the past, Manisha was hesitant to go public with Chris. "Whenever he was in town, they would usually hang out at her place or with some friends. She wanted to shield her relationship from the public eye as well as the media. Her relation with Chris was one of the most private affairs she's had."
Manisha remained unavailable for comment.

Manya's ex files
Ranjeev Mulchandani
Nana Patekar
Prashant Chaudhary
Cecil Anthony

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Mallika falls ill on the sets of Naagin

Mallika Sherawat has been shooting non-stop for Jennifer Lynch's Naagin The Snake Woman and fell ill last week as a result. Govind Menon and Mallika's brother Vikram are co-producing the film along with Ratan Jain of Venus Records and Tapes. Irrfan Khan co-stars.

Says a source on the sets of Filmistan where Naagin is currentlyly being shot, "Mallika has been shooting round the clock for the last week when she fell ill due to exhaustion and fever.

Though it's a normal shift, it sometimes stretches from 9 am to 9 pm. The strain proved to be too much for Mallika. She is working very hard on her role. Her make-up alone takes four hours! Last Friday, the actress was in no condition to shoot. Her physician Dr Agarwal had to be called in to give her shots to help her get through the day."

The actress is a strict vegetarian and believes in eating only natural foods, so her protein intake isn't high, which could have been a cause of her collapse.

The source adds that Mallika is a strong woman and recovered fast. "We have put up a huge workshop in the studio where special effects creator Robert Kurtzman (Vanilla Sky, Evil Dead and Quentin Tarantino's films) is actually creating a 12-feet long huge snake which Mallika transforms into. The film which was to be shot in Chennai originally was delayed of lightmen's strike there, so the unit is working against time to complete the film, which they want to release in May 2009. So Mallika has been shooting without any complains about the long hours."

Mallika's brother Vikram says, "Yes, we had to call in Dr Agarwal as Mallika was unwell but she's all right now."

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Watch The Trailer of 'Golmaal Returns'

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Priyanka teams up with Shah Rukh for item song

With age comes maturity and that holds true in the case of husky–voiced beauty Rani Mukherji.

The pretty lady proved that she is mature enough who has her head on her shoulders when recently she was replaced by Priyanka Chopra in SRK's home production BILLOO BARBER. Instead of crying foul and shouting from the rooftop she handled the matter very coolly. Lately when she was asked about the same, quite unperturbedly she said that she has not spoken to her dear friend SRK over it and neither she needs clarification on the same nor does she holds grudges towards anyone.

Apparently SRK's much–touted BILLOO BARBER, being directed by Priyadarshan, will have 3 special item numbers, featuring three sizzling hot Bollywood babes opposite King Khan in each song and for that matter Bollywood's current hot sirens Deepika Padukone & Kareena Kapoor were already signed. While work on the first two items songs with Deepika Padukone and Kareena Kapoor is near completion, SRK was facing a dilemma and was not able to make up his mind over whether to choose Priyanka or Rani for the third item song. Finally SRK opted for Priyanka over Rani.

Though the reasons for the same are not yet confirmed but few reports are holding that after Rani appeared in Salman's 10 Ka Dum show SRK opted for Priyanka instead. As the entire industry is aware that the 2 Khans are no more friends.

Well whatever the reason may be but we truly appreciate Rani's maturity over this topic.

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Kajol in RAB NE BANA DI JODI

It's a known fact that Kajol has been SRK's lucky mascot ever since the duo shared the screen space in BAAZIGAR (way back in 90's). Whenever this hit jodi of Bollywood came together the film worked wonders at Box–office. Audiences adore seeing their blazing chemistry on–screen even if it is for few seconds. And that is the reason SRK prefers to have Kajol's presence (even in cameos/special appearances) in his movies.

Last she was seen in SRK's home production OM SHANTI OM (but in a special appearance) which again turned a massive hit.

Now that SRK's one more esteemed project RAB NE BANA DI JODI, which is being directed Aditya Chopra and stars newcomer Anuskha Sharma opposite King Khan, is impending. SRK has once again roped in his dear friend and lucky charm Kajol for RAB NE BANA DI JODI. No the bubbly actress is not paired with SRK but only doing a song in the film. If the reports are to be believed than it was none other than ace filmmaker Aditya Chopra's idea to have Kajol's presence in the film.

Reportedly, the song will be shot in Mumbai. And Kajol will appear in one of the verses of a song filmed on Shah Rukh and newcomer Anushka Sharma. The setting of the song will be a Punjabi folk event, and Kajol will appear for few seconds before the song ends.

So all those diehard SRK–Kajol fans can enjoy the glimpse of the jodi once again!

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"'Drona' is my biggest, my best" - Abhishek Bachchan

The countdown has begun for the two biggies that are slated for release this Idd: DRONA and KIDNAP. A lot is riding on these two films. In terms of economics, both are expensive films. Plus, the careers of Abhishek Bachchan [DRONA] and Imran Khan [post JAANE TU… YA JAANE NA] are at stake. Will DRONA live up to the humungous expectations?

"It's my biggest and best film so far," Abhishek Bachchan tells me. He's supremely confident this time. "I don't speak like this, do I? But DRONA is different. It's the most expensive film I am associated with. Besides, Goldie [Behl; the director] has executed the subject remarkably," he states.

Abhishek and Goldie have got together after more than seven years [BAS ITNA SA KHWAB HAI was released in July 2001]. In between, in 2006, Goldie had plans of making a thriller with Abhishek, but decided on making an adventure fare instead. "Goldie was disheartened after his debut film failed. Later, he diversified into television; he wanted to make his company secure before he announced his next film," Abhishek reminisces.

Abhishek credits his directors for the [sterling] performances he has delivered in films like YUVA and GURU [Mani Ratnam] as also SARKAR and SARKAR RAJ [RGV]. "If at all DRONA works -- and I hope it does -- Goldie should get the credit for it. He has worked very, very hard. I am sure, the Indian audiences haven't seen an adventure film like DRONA before," he says confidently.

Abhishek has worked in the DHOOM series as also SARKAR and its sequel. There's talk that a sequel to DRONA is in the offing. "Oh yes! Goldie has written so much in the intervening period that he's ready to take the DRONA series forward. In fact, the possibility of a sequel can easily be explored," he adds.

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Aamir Khan speaks about TZP being sent as India's entry to the Oscars

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Abhishek's connection with Taj Mahal

There seems to be some sort of karmic connection that Abhishek Bachchan shares with the monument of love- Taj Mahal. How else do you explain the fact that the actor keeps getting a chance to shoot at one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Abhishek Bachchan along with his co-star Sonam Kapoor was recently shooting at the Taj Mahal in Agra for their upcoming film Dilli 6. While it's probably the first time that Sonam got a chance to shoot at the Taj, for Abhishek this is his 5th instance,

In one of his early films Tera Jaado Chal Gaya, AB Jr. shot at the Taj. Post that, even films like Bunty Aur Babli and Jhoom Barabar Jhoom had this actor posing in front of this great monument. Recently, Abhishek even shot a commercial at the Taj (where he played a tourist guide) for one of the leading cell phone network operators.

And when Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra decided to film some important portions of his upcoming film Dilli 6 in and around the Taj, Abhishek's tryst with the Taj continued. While filming at the Taj seems to have become quite a routine thing for AB Jr., young Sonam seems to be enjoying every moment posing in front of one of the greatest monuments in the world.

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New 'Dostana' Trailer

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Watch Malaika Arora's Chori Chori Dekhe Mujhe video from 'EMI'

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Press conference of Kidnap

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Arjun Rampal's birthday bash

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An Evening in Paris with Kareena

The oh-so-gorgeous Kareena Kapoor may have turned a year older yesterday (Sept 21) but one look at some of her recent pics, and you will agree that the actress is probably looking her best these days.

Kareena, who is the brand ambassador for Globus chain of stores, recently shot for their Winter 08 collection at one of the most romantic cities in the world - Paris. Now, when it is Paris, love is certainly in the air and giving company to Bebo was her loving boyfriend Saif Ali Khan who made her feel all the more special with his presence. Bollywood Hungama brings you some sizzling hot images of Kareena from this photo-shoot.

Kareena, who has been in the news for her size-zero figure, looks picture perfect in this dress with a wide belt. Needless to say, her matching sandals only add to her sex-appeal

Kareena got a chance to shoot at some really picturesque locales of Paris like the Alexander Bridge, the Opera, the Ritz-Carlton and even the streets of Paris. The beautiful actress is seen sporting this wintry dark outfit and is surely adding to the beauty of one of the world's most beautiful cities.

The oh-so-famous pout is back in this pic. Bebo is seen wearing quite an interesting mix of a black top with tight purple coloured pants. She is looking so sizzling hot in this pic that she decided to cover her eyes with designer shades. After all, kisi ki nazar na lage.

After being photographed all her life, Bebo decides to take the camera in her own hands this time around. Wonder what she is planning to click. Considering that boyfriend Saif was also by her side in Paris, we are sure Bebo would have had a good time getting the Chotte Nawab to pose for her in front of some picturesque locales.

'When in Rome, do as the Romans do' goes the popular saying. 'When in Paris, do as the Parisians do' seems to be Kareena's mantra, as she goes displaying her classic vintage style. The best Parisian hair and make-up artists have worked on Kareena for this campaign and with lensman Suresh Natarajan's magical camerawork, Bebo surely looks like a million bucks. One thing is for sure, the city of Paris will never be the same again after Bebo's sensational visit.

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Unleashing visual effects in Drona

In a quest to make Drona a magical film, director Goldie Behl has used a lot of VFX. David Bush, VFX supervisor, gives an insight

Pre-production stage

I have had a good fortune to have been working on Drona since the last six months. During the pre-production and shooting stages, I was presented with numerous stimulating challenges in the making of this film while now in the all important post- production phase of the film, things are as exciting as the pre-production stage.

Shoot

It was an exciting shoot as we invented practical solutions for complex shots - how to do a motion control track underwater (without using waterproofed motion control), shooting a stunning action sequence on a running train - and even getting our hero (played by the Abhishek Bachchan) to jump off the roof of a moving train to a horseback.

After we had the excellently shot film material, we decided that Drona deserved a pristine and sharp overall look, especially with its acquired status as one of India's most important films of the year.

Hence, we decided to investigate the possibilities of doing the Digital Intermediate (DI) in 4k in several facilities that trumpeted 4k workflows in Mumbai. We had seen some recent Indian blockbusters go the 2k route in 1:2.35 cinemascope format but weren't happy with the overall soft image that is derived at that resolution - in fact, centre extraction of a 2k scanned image is really down to the equivalent of less than a thousand lines of resolution and I personally think that this is inadequate for wide format films on the big screen.

What followed?

I explained to all and sundry about the potential facilities that we wanted and warned that we would have to accommodate editorial changes and last minute VFX versions into the two and a quarter hour film in the final stages of grading, although this has become practically the norm with most films today - all the same, I wanted to be sure that our requirements would be taken care of..

Technique usage

We were shown various opportunities, systems, colourists and theoretical workflows by quite a number of facilities - all of them highly motivated and stimulated to work on one of the most-awaited projects of the year here in India.

To be straight, these techniques may be eminently useful for getting more out of less and indeed I have used them effectively myself in the past, but together with Goldie Behl and Sameer Arya the director of photography, we had already decided that we wanted nothing but the best for Drona and that we weren't going to accept any compromises on the film's quality and that actually meant that we needed to do the entire process in full- blown 4 k; this accurately matches the original camera negative when well calibrated and fine tuned, and makes the DI process more exciting as there is no quality compromise for using all of those wonderful and creative colour grading tools that DI has become so renowned for.

Shooting and VFX facilities

The principal cinematography was done at Prague, Namibia, Mumbai and Rajasthan. For visual effects I had taken stock of many facilities, seen their showreels, got to know the set ups.

I asked them for estimates for numerous VFX shots. Finally we settled for Mumbai's most-preferred facilities like EyeQube Studios, Future Works, Prana and to larger extent at Tata Elxsi.

Future Works repertoire

The actual workflow set up in Future Works with the help of the highly experienced Steve Shaw, is based on Spirit 4k for scanning, Pablo iQ for editing and grading, and Arrilaser for film recording. The VFX are sent to the various aforementioned facilities and are directly available on-line in Future Works itself, after which the finished effects go back into the facility's 4k Pablo with 8 hours of 4k memory. After the grade and edit in 4k, film recording to inter-negative was done on the facility's 4k Arrilaser.

For Drona we contracted Steve Shaw to assist with the DI. Steve is no stranger to me, having set up Cinecittà Digital with him in 2001, so I am happy that he can contribute his creative and technical flair to this project as well. He will be co-ordinating with Future Works' own talented DI grading team. There's nothing like experience for getting the job done well.

Kind of work done

We had already tested ways of making the metallic components of our hero's costume more brilliant, for example; and even more exciting is the knowledge that we will make extensive use of the effects toolset of Pablo during the DI online and grade. We will be able to add in and see in context, camera-shake on the fast-action sequences, thus generally saving the effect count considerably by using the power of the system to do many of these so-called “optical” effects, as they are generally known. In short Drona is pushing the bench mark ever higher in the fast-growing Indian Film Industry, and I'm proud to be part of the team actively pushing the quality envelope.

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Karishma's charisma!

Bollywood, eat your heart out!

The sexy Karisma Kapoor was in town Thursday night. Not to sign a comeback film, unfortunately; but to make her presence felt at the HDIL India Couture Week, where she set the ramp ablaze at the Grand Hyatt by appearing as the showstopper for her Delhi buddy Manav Gangwani.

He is the youngest couturier of the week, a hugely talented designer who, Karisma said, has clothes that flatter the body. “The low back and passionate play of red and gold on my churidhar is so sensuous and pretty,” she gushed backstage, adding nervously, “I hope all goes well on the ramp. I could dance in front of a crowd of 10,000, but this is different...” Then, with a confident toss of her head, she stepped out to a tumultuous welcome.

The distinguished audience forgot their airs and graces and put fingers to lips and whistled enthusiastically. Those that couldn’t, clapped and cheered the Raja Hindustani actress wildly. Karisma bowed, did a namaste, and sashayed back, walking with her hips like the supermodels do... once an actress, always an actress!

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Bipasha's super - sexy look in Pankh

Despite being pitted along side beauties like Deepika Padukone and Minissha Lamba in her last release Bachna Ae Haseeno, Bipasha Basu managed to stand out. What's more, her pairing with the much younger Ranbir Kapoor became the talk of the town.

Now Bips will next be seen in White Feather Arthouse Films' Pankh in a super sexy avatar. The actress apparently plays an imaginary character who exists in the protagonist Jerry's (played by Maradona Rebello) mind. Must say, Bips looks super hot with this chic new hair do.

The Bong bombshell would even be seen seducing her 22 year old co-star in the film directed by Sudipto Chattopadhyay. Bipasha's look in Pankh has been styled by Rocky S and Gavin Miguel. Hope Bips is able to set the screen on fire yet again.

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Abhishek Bachchan & Sonam Kapoor shooting for Dilli 6 in Agra

Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra's last film Rang De Basanti is still fresh in our memory. The film won not just critical acclaim but also turned out to be one of the biggest commercial successes of that year (2006).

Now everyone is waiting with bated breath for Mehra's next film Dilli 6. The film stars Abhishek Bachchan and Sonam Kapoor in lead roles and is slated to release early next year (2009).


The cast and crew of the film comprising Abhishek Bachchan, Sonam Kapoor, Rishi Kapoor, Tanvi Azmi, and Waheeda Rehman were seen shooting some important scenes in Agra recently. From the looks of it, the camaraderie between AB Jr. and Sonam Kapoor seems to be really good. One can't wait to see them sizzle together on screen.

Not much is known about the premise of the film but the buzz is that the film is based on Mehra's growing up years in the popular Chandni Chowk. Whether Dilli 6 will be able to repeat the success story of Mehra's earlier film, one will just have to wait and watch.

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Taare Zameen Par is India's official entry to the Oscars

The verdict is finally out. Aamir Khan's directorial debut Taare Zameen Par, which won the hearts of audiences world over, has been selected as India's official entry to the Oscars.

The heartwarming story of a dyslexic child (portrayed by Darsheel Safary) and his supportive teacher (played by Aamir himself) was both a critical and commercial success. Taare Zameen Par edged out competition such as Jodhaa Akbar and A Wednesday to be chosen as India's official entry to the prestigious Academy awards.

Last time around Aamir Khan Productions' Lagaan made it to the Final 5 nominated films in the Best Foreign Film category. Now producer-director Aamir Khan would be hoping that Taare Zameen Par not just finds a nomination in the Top 5, but also bags the coveted trophy.

Here's wishing Aamir and the entire team of Taare Zameen Par heartiest congratulations and loads of luck for their Oscar campaign.

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A Very Happy Birthday Kareena!

She is truly a rockstar and no one can ever deny that. Smart, sensuous, hardworking, sexy, and vivacious Kareena Kapoor aka Bebo celebrates her birthday on September 21.

Being a family person Kareena may not be able to spend birthday this year with family since she is busy shooting for Raju Hirani's upcoming 3 Idiots in Ladakh. News is that even Saif may not be able to join Bebo for her birthday but knowing the Khan you never know what he may plan and surprise Kareena with.

Well for all those who want to make it special for Kareena on her birthday, simply post in your messages below and wish her a warm birthday and a great year ahead.

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Preity's phone panic!

The last few days have been traumatic for Preity Zinta's near and dear ones in India.

The actress who has been away for three months first for The Unforgettable concerts, and then the Toronto Film Festival, suddenly went missing last week. No one seemed to know where she was.

Filmmaker Deepa Mehta who was with Preity in Toronto was also clueless. "She left Toronto after winning accolades for her performance in my film (Heaven On Earth). After that, I haven't heard from her," Back home in Mumbai, no one seemed to know where Preity was. To top the panic, the actress didn't even show up in Mumbai on Monday as scheduled.

The panic ended on Tuesday when Preity re-surfaced with a startling tale. "My phone folded up. It shut down on me. All my numbers, important documents including details of my return ticket were on it. I had to miss my flight because I had no details. I had no way of getting in touch with anyone since all my numbers were on my phone. Even my mom had no way of contacting me. I had to call her from a pay phone," Preity said from Calgary just before leaving for Mumbai.

She continues, "My phone's now been sorted out. So's my ticket. I'm finally on my way back. I can't tell you how relieved I am. I have four back-to-back releases coming up."

Preity's troubles didn't end with the phone. "In Toronto I discovered that all the clothes I had brought for the Festival were too large for me. Don't ask me how. I had to go around stores in Toronto and pick up whatever I could get in my size."

Red, incidentally, is Preity's lucky colour. She bought a red dress for the screening of Heaven On Earth in Toronto. "And it worked. Because the audience really seemed to connect with the film and my character. I've had so many women coming up to me in Toronto telling me they've gone through domestic abuse. It makes me feel I've started something which I now need to carry forward," said Preity. "I have lots to attend to in Mumbai. I'm getting the Smita Patil Memorial award and I'm so excited."

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Priyanka's rings of health

Priyanka Chopra has taken to wearing healing stones for her good health and prosperity. Sources reveal that ever since her dad's health went down hill the actress has taken to wearing these special stones in her rings.

A few weeks back, the actress was spotted wearing three stone-studded rings in her hands. In the past, Priyanka hasn't sported any such rings.

A source reveals that Priyanka took to the rings after her dad's recent relapse in health. "Priyanka was advised by a common friend to start wearing the stones in her rings.

She is wearing three rings, two on her right hand and one on the left. The stones have healing powers and Priyanka believes will get her good health and luck. Even though she isn't a strong believer in astrology and such, Priyanka is wearing these rings to bring her luck and prosperity."

The source further reveals, "Harman too believes in the power of stones and has been wearing some rings for a long time. With three important releases Drona, Fashion and Dostana lined up, Priyanka wants to make sure she gets all the luck these rings can offer. In fact, both Harman and Priyanka sport the same emerald rings in their hands."

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"I am going home" says 'Kites' Cinematographer

All's not well on the sets on Rakesh Roshan's Kites in New Mexico. The producer upset cinematographer Bobby Singh so much that the he stormed out of the under-production film.

Kites, being directed by Anurag Basu stars Hrithik Roshan and Barbara Mori. It was the director who brought the cinematographer on board. They'd worked together in the past in Metro, Woh Lamhe and Gangster. And Roshan agreed to have him on board after seeing his work.

According to a reliable source, "Bobby and Anurag are friends, besides being a great team. Basu appreciates Bobby's work and gives him a free hand. But Roshan had his own ideas of how the film should look. He didn't agree with Bobby's style and would interfere in camera angles and light shots etc.

Initially Bobby kept quiet as Rakesh is a senior filmmaker and creative differences happen on every set. But as the days went by, Bobby felt his work as a cinematographer was increasingly getting undermined."

The differences between Bobby and Roshan was affecting everyone on the set. Things finally came to a head on the day when Roshan Sr shouted at Bobby in front of the whole cast ad crew. The source says, "Bobby was fixing his camera for a particular shot when Rakesh came up to him and started firing him loudly.

Rakesh had apparently told Bobby to do the shot from another angle but Bobby wanted to try a different angle. Rakesh was furious as Bobby had disregarded his instructions, and made his displeasure clear in front of the entire unit. Bobby felt so humiliated about this dressing down that he stormed off the sets and took a flight straight back to Mumbai!"

When contacted Bobby doesn't deny the story but says, "Yes I am no more a part of Kites but I don't want to talk about it."

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Karisma Kapoor and Rahul Khanna walks the ramp for Manav Gangwani

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"Shah Rukh thought I wasn't provided food" - Shahid Kapur

This weekend on 'Sajid Superstars', it is Shahid Kapoor's turn to get candid as he talks about his personal as well as professional life. While he shares little known facts about his early days in the world of glitz and glamour, he also reasons that there has to be a line drawn between personal and professional life.

- One of the early incidents that Shahid narrates on the show is set in the time when he was working with Shiamak Davar's dance troupe. Shah Rukh Khan once dropped in at a show and on seeing Shahid, he immediately questioned Shiamak if he didn't feed his troupe members well. Reason behind the question? Shahid was quite thin and lanky in his early days and was nowhere close to as well built as he is today. Coming back to the comment, Shahid took it quite personally and started working hard on his body.

- Shahid also talks about how he lacked confidence in his teenage years due to his physique. His confidence did get a boost though when his first music video was out. Ever famous 'Aankhon Mein Tera Hi Chehra' featured him along with his then girlfriend Hrishita Bhatt and gained quite some popularity for itself. One day he saw some girls talking about the video and exclaiming 'Oh so cute'. He obviously thought that the compliments were for him but on close hearing, he realized that they were talking about the dog in the video!

- Another fact from the past which is revealed is about his dance performance alongside Aishwarya Rai years back. It is not known to all but the fact is that in the movie Taal, he was one of the background dancers from Shiamak Davar's troupe for the number 'Kahin Aag Lage Lag Jaaye'!

- Apparently. there was no love lost between Fardeen Khan and Shahid Kapoor during the shooting of Fida (which incidentally also starred Kareena Kapoor), Sajid Khan questions him on what had gone wrong.

- There are light moments in the show as well as the Sania Mirza reference comes in, though in a subtle manner. As Shahid disclosed that Tennis is his favorite sport with Federer and Martina Navratilova being his favorite tennis players, Sajid cheekily asked him if there was some 'young Indian female tennis player' who was his favorite!

- Shahid mentioned though that a line had to be drawn between one's personal life and professional life and maintained that one had to do a balancing act to get things moving.

- In one of the most popular sections of 'Sajid Superstars', Shahid's best and worst scenes from chosen from Jab We Met and Vaah Life Ho To Aisi respectively. Any guesses around these scenes?

- He was politically correct when asked to choose the better dancer between him and Hrithik Roshan. Though he managed to dodge the query and come out unscathed, there is some fun in store as Sajid's own performance on the number 'Tamma Tamma Loge' [Thandedaar] in a college function would be showcased for the first time on television.

- About his personal life, Shahid admitted that he was a vegetarian by choice. He also confessed that he is actually quite a boring person. He was also asked that if he was not successful as an actor, would he have been an architect or a doctor? Any guesses around what would Shahid' have opted for?

- Last but not the least; an interesting trivia was unearthed on the show. While Shahid has worked with Sanjay Dutt in Vaah Life Ho To Aisi, his mother too has acted with Sanju baba a few years back!

Keep jogging your memory cells as 'Sajid Superstars' brings an answer to this and a lot more at 8:00 PM, Saturday on the newly launched channel COLORS!

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Celebs galore at the HDIL's Red Carpet event at China House Post

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Priyanka Chopra performs with 'Son Of a Bitch'

Bollywood is known to be the 'Masala Industry' for nothing. The reason being this is one place whereby you can find millions of masala. After having tasted 'videsi' tadka like, the latest one being Snoop Dogg in Singh Is Kinng, Bollywood is all set to say hello to an underground club called…hold your breath… 'SoB' (son of a bitch) in Goldie Behl's much anticipated venture Drona. The song 'Oopcha' (whatever that means) which features none other than the sexy Priyanka Chopra, also features 'SoB'.

For starters, 'SoB' are a troupe from New Jersey and are known to perform at all the celebrity do in New Jersey. News has it that Goldie Behl was so tad impressed with these guys that he actually brought them from New Jersey to Mumbai! And for those who have seen the guys performing simply swear by their blessedly agile bodies!


Speaking about his choice of the boys, Goldie said, "When I saw these boys perform at a high profile club in New Jersey, I was completely blown away. These guys were really good. From there on, we initiated to get these guys down to Mumbai and start rehearsals for the song and it hardly took them two days of practice to get into the groove of the music and perform to their best take after take".

But there was something exceptional done by the boys that touched Goldie the most. Says Goldie, "What was really special was that after we finished shooting, they actually performed the entire song for all of us, at one go as a thanks giving gesture".

Wonder when Bollywood will be touched by such professionalism!

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UTV clarifies Akshay's fee: Rs. 71 cr

UTV has issued a press statement, which is being reproduced verbatim:

"We would like to comment and place on record and clarify a totally false and speculative article that appeared in today's Times of India edition on the front page. Entitled 'Akshay paid Rs. 71 cr for a film?'

A) We do not comment on market speculation or motivated press comments to sensationalize things with untrue facts -- but still wish to clarify in the interest of our shareholders.

B) We did issue a full denial and directed them not to run the article.

C) We confirm that the speculation of the amount stated in the article is totally untrue and is not even close to even 50 per cent of the amount stated in the article.

D) We consider the article damaging to our company and our shareholders and damaging to the industry to project such unwarranted hype and consider this irresponsible journalism on a front page of a leading newspaper which people believe is credible when they read but is far from truth or facts.

We therefore consider it correct to issue this clarification."

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Sallu wants SRK’s company off 'Yuvvraj'

Shah Rukh Khan's Red Chillies Entertainment has a separate team called Red Chillies VFX that handles special effects and post-production work for many films.

Initially, VFX would work solely for Shah Rukh starrers like Chak De!, Om Shanti Om and Paheli but lately, they have started outsourcing their talent to other production houses as well.

Some of the films VFX is working on are Tasveer, Aashayein, Dostana and Drona. In that list is also Subhash Ghai's Yuvvraj starring Salman Khan, Anil Kapoor and Katrina Kaif.

Sources reveal that Ghai's film needs CGI and special effect sequences in the second half which VFX is handling. However, that may change soon. A source working on the project reveals that Salman isn't pleased about Shah Rukh's company was handling the work of his film.

"The deal was negotiated before his fall out with Shah Rukh. However, now that equations have changed between them, he wants Ghai to outsource the SFX work elsewhere."

That seems unlikely because a large part of the work has been completed. Adds an insider, "Sallu is adamant that the remaining portions be sourced to some other company. But it isn't easy to start all over."

When contacted Ghai says, "Mukta Arts and Red Chillies are professional companies committed from day one to do the FX for Yuvvraj and they are doing a fine job. Actually the Red Chillies technicians with Salman did the last-day shoot. I can assure you that Salman has never interfered in any of the departments throughout the making of Yuvvraj."

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Abhishek interviews father Amitabh Bachchan on television

Television viewing has never looked as good, as it will this Friday (September 19) when the Bachchan Father-Son duo revisit exclusive moments from the Unforgettable Tour. An exclusive three - episode chat show from the creators of The Unforgettable Tour Diaries, Wizcraft Television will have viewers glued to their sets to watch, The Big B's Den.

In his return to television, Amitabh Bachchan will be seen in a candid disposition, interviewing the star cast of the Unforgettable Tour. Their first hand experiences, unforgettable moments, success-runs among other topics, will be on record with Mr. Bachchan, in his den. The den drapes gorgeous deep reds and gold, with a fiery twist encompassing the look and colors of the Tour.

The Big B's Den shows a rugged Abhishek Bachchan, who makes his small screen debut, wherein he will play host in the opening episode, interviewing none other than his father. Watch segments of the enigmatic and larger-than-life capsules of the Tour and what papa thinks of his sons' interviewing skills and tips on how to break into on-air commercial. Mr. Bachchan even plays a word association game with Abhishek, giving the star cast some 'unforgettable' tags.

Catch the show this Friday, September 19 on NDTV Imagine at 2200 hrs. IST to know what happened when the Sound console collapsed in Houston, a rewind into his earlier world Tours and much, much more.

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First Look: Rani shoots for Yash Raj

Rani Mukerji was spotted shooting for her new film in the village of Jagdevkalan, about 20km from Amritsar on September 12. The film is being produced by Yash Raj Films, and is yet-untitled.

We couldn't help but wonder if the actress was shooting for the Shah Rukh Khan-starrer Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, which is currently being shot in Amritsar. The film is being directed by Aditya Chopra , and also stars newcomer Anushka Sharma.

Rani's film seems to have a patriotic flavour, as the actress waves the India tricolour in a shot.

The Bengali star, who was last seen in Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic, is expected to work through the upcoming Durga pooja, as Yash Raj has reportedly not given her any leave.

Watch this space for more.

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Aishwarya Rai hikes her price to a throbbing six crores!

Bollywood beauty Aishwarya Rai has hiked her price to a throbbing six crores per movie. The ace actress has pocketed home a bomb of money for her Tamil movie �Enthiram� opposite Tamil superstar Rajinikanth.

According to reports, the Bachchan bahurani was granted such a huge amount by the producers, after she agreed to work in the flick in spite of being heavily tied up in lieu of the fact that as she had in the past (due to indispensable reasons) turned down two projects with Rajini and was very guilty of it.

Thus, the breathtaking beauty impressed the producers with her commitment and forced them to meet her market demands. With this monetary hike, Rai will be in the league of Bollywood�s highest paid actresses which also includes- Kareena Kapoor and Katrina Kaif.

Wonder, what hubby Abhishek has to say about the newest development in his ladylove�s life? As for now, let us leave him alone to count the money!

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Aishwarya to star opposite Will Smith in a new film

It seems like marriage between Bollywood and Hollywood is inevitable. News has it that Bollywood�s �Bahu� Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is reading a Hollywood script that stars none other than comedy star Will Smith.

Although, the beautiful actress is inclined towards the tempting project, she has not given her consent to it yet. Speaking to a news daily, Aishwarya said, �There is the possibility of a movie with Will Smith and I am very excited about it because the script is fabulous and no doubt, he is a great actor and is a funny companion to work with.�

After starring in interesting Hollywood projects like �Mistress of Spices� and �The Last Legion�, Aishwarya is excited about Will Smith�s next. Aishwarya admits to reading other scripts from Hollywood also and said that she would leave it to destiny to resolve.

Expressing her gratitude for the international attention she is getting, the actress said, "I consider myself very fortunate to have enjoyed a fantastic support from a widespread section of audience... I am very thankful for that kind of love and support because it has given me the confidence and strength of enjoying myself and explore different genres, be it art, commercial or historical, I have done it all."

Meanwhile, Will Smith, who is a self-confessed Aishwarya Rai Bachchan fan, affirmed that Ash was his first choice to star in 'Hancock' and 'Seven Pounds' too. But, the lady had politely declined both the offers due to prior commitments. Perhaps, this time Will Smith will have his way. The comedy star has expressed his wish to act in a Bollywood movie himself stating that the future of international cinema lies in the marriage of Hollywood and Bollywood.

Grapevine also has it that the gorgeous actress has hiked also her price to a throbbing six crores per movie. The lady has pocketed the enormous sum for her Tamil movie �Enthiram� opposite Tamil superstar Rajinikanth.

As they say, some people have all the luck�.

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Vidya was caught by the US cops

Just when we were wondering where Vidya Balan had disappeared, she emerged from her short hiatus and told us that she was holidaying in the US.

According to the actress, the holiday was a much needed break. And guess what she did there? She attended a fashion show to raise funds for a cause and also watched the musical The Spring Awakening .

“We went on a picnic and walked around the Central Park and visited an aquarium in Georgia,” says her friend who accompanied the actress.

“There were a few American officers who had overheard some Indians talk about Vidya and how she is a famous actress in Bollywood. The officers immediately stopped Vidya. Initially she was taken aback, but when the officers asked her to pose with them, she gladly did. The funniest thing was when the officers looked up on the net for her and felt proud that they had actually posed with a leading Bollywood actress,” said the friend. Now isn’t that sweet?

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Kareena Kapoor will miss Saif Ali Khan on her b'day this year

Kareena Kapoor will be celebrating her 27th birthday on September 21 in Ladakh with Aamir Khan minus boyfriend Saif Ali Khan.

The actress laughs at the rumours of sneaking into Mumbai for a huge bash hosted by Saif, "Where is this huge party? I am working and traveling non-stop and choose to be like this for the next four years. On my birthday, I am in Ladakh shooting with Aamir for Raju Hirani's 3 Idiots."

After which she heads to Tuscany for Sajid Nadiad-wala's Kambakht Ishq.

When asked if Saif will be joining her on her special day, she asks, "How can he? He is also shooting continuously for his home production in Delhi, Rajasthan and Patiala for the next two months. He's on a whirlwind tour all over India for his film."

So what's on her birthday gift wish list this year? She groans, "I only want eight hours of sleep which I don't get because of shooting, media meets and endorsements. I'd love to have a day when I don't get 300 messages on my phone and my business manager doesn't harrow me for some shooting or interview or endorsement."

About the marriage rumours which crop up at regular intervals, she says, "It's very annoying as right now, we have nothing more than work on our minds. There are no marriage plans." However, the actress insists that when it happens it won't be on the sly, "I am not a secretive person by nature and have never hidden my relationships; why should I hide my marriage?"

The actress was in Delhi last week with Saif when the bomb blasts happened. She shakes her head at the tragedy, "I feel bad for the people and whose families are affected by such events. It's depressing and sad…"

Bebo is excited about her next release Golmaal Returns, "It's nice to do all kinds of films. I am very close to the producers Ashtavinayak with whom I am doing three films. They offered me this sequel, I took it on, as the original is one of the funniest film I have ever seen, and also a big success. I couldn't even dub properly for it, as I'd be laughing so much."

The actress also rides a bike in the film, something she learnt for five days, "I was a bit nervous but it wasn't a long drive and we shot did in bits so it was fine." Bebo's character is Tusshar's (Kapoor) sister Ekta who's in love with Balaji serials like Kasautii Zindagi Kay and relates them to life. I play a very suspicious wife. GR will remain a special film for me — it felt like I was with family — eating and doing everything together."

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Diwali release Cancelled

Chandni Chowk to China was to a have a big Diwali release. The film will now release some time in January 2009.The reason behind this delay is said to be the poorly exposed shooting cans.

The film will have to be re-shot. The biggest hurdle, however, is that lead actor Akshay Kumar cannot give them dates.

A source in the industry says, "Nikhil Advani''s directorial venture Chandni Chowk to China was supposed to be readied for a Diwali release. To meet the deadline, the unit and the actors shot round the clock to finish the film. The last shooting stint was held a month ago in China, just before the Olympics. During post-production, however, the unit members discovered that four cans containing the final prints of the shot material turned out to be foggy. The real reason for this technical hitch is still not known. For now, they can't seem to retrieve anything in the destroyed cans."

The source continues, "As things stand, the makers have an incomplete film on hand. The makers are planning to re-shoot the lost material and now want the next release date for the film (January 16). They will either plan to shoot the film now on a set that will be erected in a Mumbai studio, or they will once again go back to China to can it. But the problem is Akki's date diary is full till mid 2009 and it's upto him to squeeze in the required 10 days to complete CC2C." The film is allegedly based on his true life experiences as a cook in Bangkok.

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Karisma Kapoor signed as the brand ambassador of Priyagold biscuits

Karisma Kapoor may not be getting the right scripts for her much-awaited comeback but she is certainly back in the news after being roped in as the Brand Ambassador of the popular Priyagold biscuits. After promoting many products like colas, hair oils, soaps, and even fans, this 'Rani Hindustani' will now be seen promoting the aforementioned brand of biscuits.

She would be promoting the Priyagold biscuits' variants like 'Butter Bite', 'Badam Pista' and 'Marie Lite'. The ads are simple and clear with no complicated storyline or special effects.

Shekhar Agrawal, Director of Priyagold's parent company Surya Foods, said that Karisma was the best choice to be the Brand Ambassador. Karisma even went on record to say that she has grown up eating these biscuits. Just the makings of a true brand loyalist, we mean Brand Ambassador!

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First Look - Hello

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First Look - Kidnap

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First Look - Heroes

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Priyanka the latest swimsuit babe

Against the blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the sparkling beaches of Miami, rises a sexy babe clad in a golden swimsuit. With water shimmering on her body in the sunlight, the face turns towards the camera... and we get the first look of Priyanka Chopra in a bathing suit. The vista is mesmerizing.

With bollywood babes going the extra mile to show off their toned bodies, it is now the turn of Priyanka Chopra. Kareena Kapoor, Bipasha Basu, Amisha Patel, Minissha Lamba have done it and now Priyanka joins the elite gang of those wearing a swimsuit for a film.

In her signature husky voice, Priyanka who is suffering from acute congestion in her throat and chest says, “The compliments are pouring in. The film has been shot in Miami and as we are young people, the best place for frolicking is on the beach. Hence, the swimsuit.”

However, shooting for a swimsuit shot is not easy for filmstars. One heard stories of Amisha and Kareena intense workouts, Bipasha’s diet of just orange juice three days prior to the shoot, so what is Priyanka’s tale?

“Since I was shooting for Madhur Bhandarkar’s Fashion where I play a supermodel, I really did not have to do much for the shot in Dostana. I was already working out and since I have a very slender frame, the shot did not require me to do anything drastic,” says the former Miss World.

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"We are fine"

As four explosions ripped through the Karol Bagh Market, Kailash Market and Connaught Place in New Delhi on Saturday, killing many and injuring dozens of others, B-Town's favourite couple, Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor who were also in the capital, were unscathed.

While Saif has been there for a recce of his untitled home production (Illuminati Films) directed by Imtiaz Ali (shooting starts September 16), Kareena was there for a ribbon-cutting event of a newly launched spa.

When we contacted Saif and Kareena on Saturday night, they were having dinner at the ITC Maurya Sheraton (where they are staying) on Sardar Patel Marg at the Diplomatic Enclave, they were having dinner. A visibly disturbed Saif says, "We are deeply hurt and very worried about what's been happening all around us."

Saif adds that though they are also nervous about stepping out anywhere because of the blasts they were physically unhurt. "No harm has come to us. We are fine. Even my shooting was to start from December 16 at various places and we hope to go on schedule as planned," Saif signs off.

Kareena, who was in the capital for a day, left for Ladakh yesterday to shoot for Raj Kumar Hirani's 3 Idiots.

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Amitabh Bachchan to host 'Big B's Den'

As part of its special programming centred around the Unforgettable Tour which features the greatest superstars of Indian Cinema, NDTV Imagine gives audiences a glimpse of Amitabh Bachchan in an exciting new role as host of a 3 part series show titled Big B's Den.

For three consecutive Fridays beginning September 19, 2008, Big B's Den will present an intimate conversation between Amitabh Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, Preity Zinta, Riteish Deshmukh and Vishal-Shekar of the highly successful Unforgettable Tour. Each week Big B will put his guests in the hot seat and don the hat of the host, getting his celebrity guests to let their hair down and be at their candid best!

The first episode of this 3 part series which airs on Friday, September 19th at 10:00 p.m features Big B in conversation with Abhishek Bachchan. Known for his sharp wit and for pulling practical jokes on his friends and family, Abhishek turns the tables on his dad and takes over as the host of the show, putting his father on the hot seat! This fun and entertaining episode captures the bond shared by the country's most loved father-son duo. And Big B does not disappoint!!! From his first live performances to his nicknames for each of the stars on the Unforgettable Tour and from fan reactions to spending quality time with his family, he gets candid with all his answers.

With Bollywood's greatest superstar as host, the show promises to be entertaining and insightful, giving audiences a glimpse of the intimate details and experience from the Unforgettable Tour from each of these stars.

Enter the Big B's Den every Friday at 10:00 pm only on NDTV Imagine for your weekly quota of some Unforgettable facts of this truly unforgettable tour straight from the brightest stars of Bollywood themselves.

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Salman launches 'Kaash Mere Hote' music

Salman Khan released the audio of Shravan Entertainment Films' KAASH MERE HOTE on the sets of YUVVRAAJ at Film City. Music composer-producer Shravan, lead man Kumar Saahil, Sanjeev (music director), Satyaprakash (lyricist), Rohit (Executive Producer), Shashank Singh Baba (singer), Johny Lever and Labh Janjua (singer) were present.

Sneha Ullal, the heroine of the film, could not make it as she was shooting for a South film in Hyderabad. The film also stars Rajesh Khanna and Sana.

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Salman launches 'Kaashh... Mere Hote' music

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Sanjay Dutt appointed as the brand ambassador for boxing by IABF

Sanjay Dutt was among the first few actors in the industry who started the trend of working out and staying fighting fit. Now the handsome hunk, who is still known for his fitness, has been appointed as the brand ambassador for boxing by the Indian Amateur Boxing Federation (IABF).

The announcement was made by IABF President, Abhey Singh Chautala at a function in Bhatinda, Punjab over the weekend. Mr. Chautala said that boxing had recently brought laurels to the country in the Beijing Olympics (courtesy bronze medal winner Vijender Kumar) and the sport now needed a well-known brand ambassador to promote it further.

The announcement was made in Dutt's presence, who had come to witness the ongoing national boxing championship. Must say, after India's glory at the recently concluded Olympics, the appointment of Munnabhai as a brand ambassador will surely give a fillip to boxing.

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Deepika Padukone Unveils the 'Fiama Di Wills Beautiful Face Hunt'

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Ameesha on the cover of MW

This surely seems to be some sort of a lesson (or better still 'inspiration') to all those who believe in Numerology! She started her romance with the silver screen as Amisha Patel. After which, due to reasons well known, she dropped her surname and went onto become only Amisha. And then came a time (which has retained itself till now), whereby she calls herself as 'Ameesha'. We wonder if this has anything to do with numerology, but one thing is for sure that this 'Ameesha' chic has become quite a looker and more stunning than ever before!

If you do not believe us, then, go grab a copy of the latest issue of 'MW', of which she is the cover girl. Man! We wonder how the fotog must have resisted his temptations while shooting this glacier beauty! Life is looking up for Ameesha for more reasons than one. She has found her 'true love' at last (as she claims), she looks more than 'just a mere' million bucks, has an array of class-apart films coming her way, namely Chatur Singh Two Star, Run Bhola Run, to name a few!

In this issue, Ameesha has mouthed some of the most memorable quotes of her career like "My versatility is my USP. I can play a school girl, a mother, and a seductress with equal ease, I hate any man who tries too hard to impress or whose swagger says, 'Look At Me'''. Overall, its Ameesha’s snaps and her quotable quotes that makes this issue of MW simply a Collector’s Issue!

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Salman has a plan to floor Katrina

Whether it is fighting with a colleague, making up with a foe or wooing his lady love, Salman Khan has a way of doing things in great style. For a change, the macho man is in news for the right reason.

Apparently, the star has ordered an incredibly beautiful diamond bracelet for Katrina. This is supposed to be an anniversary gift to his woman. The duo completes four years of courtship this year. “Katrina is already aware of the gift from Salman’s friends. However, Salman had intended to keep this as a surprise. But when you move around in the same circle it’s not possible to keep secrets,” says our source.

The buzz is that Salman ordered this exquisite piece of jewellery from a local designer. The star knew that picking it up from a high profile jewellery store would leak the news and Khan wanted it to be a secret.

However, the Katrina camp which is still unaware of the exquisite piece of jewellery feels that the bracelet in news is the one that Kaif had been given by Salman on her birthday. But here’s the real story. “An upcoming jewellery designer from Santacruz was ushered to Galaxy apartment in Bandra and was asked to make a few sketches. “Salman approved one and paid the advance money the same day.”

Katrina Kaif’s camp neither confirmed nor denied the story.

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Karisma Kapoor's comeback next month!

Following the footsteps of top self exiled actresses like Madhuri Dixit and Kajol, another name to reckon with (from the same era ) is about to make a comeback to Bollywood. And she is none other than Karisma Kapoor, one of the most popular stars of the nineties. Karisma took a break from films following marriage to industrialist Sanjay Kapoor in 2003.

Since then, rumours have been rife of a probable comeback with a number of films like Onir's YOU AND I, RAM GOPAL VARMA KI AAG, a sequel to ANDAZ APNA APNA and the Hindi remake of the Tamil film, JUNE R.

The actress had earlier denied working in any of the above projects. Karisma confesses that she has had a laid back attitude till now but is all geared up to make a comeback. She says that she is in the middle of finalizing a film and would announce it next month or so. Karisma adds that the film in question may not necessarily be a heroine-centric one but the role much to her liking.

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Rakhi Sawant proposed to Salman Khan with a ring!

Item girl Rakhi Sawant popped the question - Marry me!" at the grand finale of the reality television show Dus Ka Dum, hosted by Salman Khan. To everybody’s surprise, Rakhi proposed marriage to Salman with a ring. Rakhi was present to grace the grand finale of Dus Ka Dum which will be aired on September 14 on Sony Entertainment Television. The episode will be fun filled as controversy queen Rakhi Sawant will be the special guest. Rakhi is a person who is known to entertain the audience with her tongue-in-cheek jokes. She will be accompanied by comedian Shakeel Siddiqui.

Salman once judged Rakhi's dancing skill at Nach Baliye 3. On that occasion, she and her partner Abhishek Awasthi were upset as they were beatten by Sanjeeda Sheikh-Aamir Ali pair. Salman then tried to console her but depressed Rakhi left the event ignoring Sallu's call.

Two other celebrities, actors Rani Mukherjee and Lara Dutta will also present on the same episode and Rani ironically would ask Salman about his tussle with Shahrukh. With so many stars in the same episode, Dus Ka Dum would really be fun to watch.

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Amitabh minds his language

Big B is in the news for all reasons linguistic.

If he’s waxing eloquent in English on screen for his latest movie, that’s news. If his better half cheekily asserts her allegiance to Hindi, that’s bigger news. But he’s also the son of a literary figure who was exceptionally skilled in both Hindi and English.

What language did he speak at home? “At home we spoke almost exclusively in Hindi. At school, it was the reverse.” And is it from the refinement of language that Harivanshrai imbibed in them that Amitabh’s own almost classical style of language comes? “ Maine ise kabhi is tarah se dekha nahi. Jo man mein aata hai, woh likh deta hoon. Lekin mera aisa manna hai ki agar kisi bhaasha ka prayog karna hai, toh use sahi dhang se hi karna chahiye. ”

But on-screen dialogues in commercial cinema are hardly written with the focus on purity or finesse of language, are they? What does he do when the script asks him to voice things that are anything but refined? “In some cases, the character is such that his language will be of a certain type. But if I find something that I am not comfortable with, koi cheez meri zabaan par sahi tareeke se nahi baith rahi, ya mujhe lagta hai ki mujhe yeh nahi kehna chahiye, mai jo director hain, unse kehta hoon, aur kai baar woh meri baat maan jaate hain. But generally, I go with what’s given. Zyadatar main dakhalandazi nahi karta hoon ...”

Would he be open to playing a character that had to deliver dialogues like the ones flying around, for instance, in an Omkara ?

“ Wahan par main thoda jhijhakta hoon . I wouldn’t be comfortable with that.” We haven’t heard him utter a profanity on screen ever, have we? “Yes, I have tried to keep away from profanity. And from the physical touch of a kiss. The only exception to the latter was Black, but that was not a moment of lust, it was not a voyeuristic moment. It was actually one of the best moments in the film, one of a tremendous connect between the two characters.”

He’s oft written or spoken of agendas against him and the family. Does the constant sniping for one issue or another get to him?

“It comes with the territory. If you are a celebrity, zahir hai ki yeh sab cheezen hongi aapke saath . When I was born, I was a celebrity, since I was the son of Harivanshrai Bachchan. And over the years I have learnt that things are this way. And I have learnt that we should be cautious about what we do, what we say, because anything we say or do could be used in a totally different manner. Words, as I said in my blog, have a wonderful way of being twisted around to interpret something totally different from what they were intended to say...”

Is there any pressure on him still, after the rounds of apologies and dropping of campaigns? He has no regrets at apologising, but clearly doesn’t wish to retrace those steps. “The matter is over, let us leave it behind now.” He may, but will the trail of words leave him, just yet? Unlikely. But then, as he knows, it comes with the territory...

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B.O. Update: '1920' starts better, 'Last Lear'-'Rubaru' poor

The horror genre seems to be fast catching up. Few weeks ago, PHOONK took the industry by complete surprise by fetching a very good start all over. Now 1920 has taken an encouraging opening at places. The opening was 40% to 60% in Mumbai and Delhi. At other places, the opening was lower. The reports are decent and the trade expects the business to pick up on Saturday and Sunday.

RU-BA-RU started on a 10% note. The business was even lower at places. THE LAST LEAR got a lot of mileage for different reasons prior to its release, but the collections were uninspiring.

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Rani and Lara in the grand finale of Salman Khan's 10 Ka Dum

Do lafzon ki hai dil ki kahaani…Ya hai Lara…Ya hai Rani
Looks like the two vivacious beauties are teaching some smiling lessons to Salman, who seem to have lost it…we mean the smile! Catch up all this and more on the Grand Finale episode of '10 ka Dum'.

The Beauty and the Best
After the recent infamous Salman-SRK spat, looks like Rani Mukherjee wants the cake and eat it too. She is of the opinion while Salman is my friend, SRK is not my enemy! Way to go, Rani!

De Taali…taali de
While Rani made no qualms about her being a major Salman fan and that she can burst into a 'mujra' if Sallu wants her to, Lara said that she was forced to see Maine Pyaar Kiya umpteen times because of her elder sister and her dates! Needless to ask, whom does Sallu prefer more? Rani or Lara! Well, your guess is as good as ours.

Do you wanna Partner?
Salman might have 'partnered' Lara Dutta in Partner with his antics, Lara maintained dignified silence on the sets on '10 Ka Dum' and spoke only when it was required, while Rani chatted her way nineteen to a dozen! Whatever happened to the true-Blue Lara?

Dost bana Host?
When Rani was posed with the question 'What percentage of Indians think two actors can be good friends?' she tried to bring in the Sallu-SRK spat and urged Sallu to forgive and forget! To which, Salman bluntly refused and also gave a long lecture on friendship to Rani on …what else …Dosti!

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Check out Salman Khan's ethnic look in Veer

Salman Khan is known to experiment with his looks and hairstyle for his films. Who can forget the hysteria which his hairstyle in Tere Naam created? It almost became like a fashion statement among young boys across the length and breadth of the country.

Now Salman seems to have yet again experimented with his looks (and his locks) for his forthcoming film Veer. These pictures sent to us by one of our users shows the brawny actor in a completely different get-up. Also seen in another pic is actor Mithun Chakraborty sporting a totally ethnic look with turban, bracelets et al. For the uninitiated, Veer is a period action film directed by Anil Sharma. The film is special to Salman for more reasons than one, as he himself has written the story of this flick.


Coming back to apna Sallu bhai's look, the actor is seen sporting a red tikka and a huge piece of ancient Indian styled jewellery round his neck. However, what is most striking is the hair-do that he is sporting. Will this one also create a fashion trend of sorts? Your guess is as good as ours.

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Karishma’s all business!

We spotted Bollywood actress Karisma Kapoor in Delhi on Thursday morning. She was rushing out of one of the posh hotels’ lobby area after attending a business meeting with some Mumbai-based event management company.

Karishma looked cool in a blue casual sporty attire. While she was getting inside her car, our cameraman requested her to pose for us and she happily obliged with a perfect picture.

When we asked her whether she has shifted base to Mumbai permanently, she informed us, “Who said I have shifted to Mumbai permanently? I keep coming to Delhi regularly as I have my family here too. And I love being in Delhi.”

We also asked her about her daughter Samaira and she said, “ Oh! my angel has turned three and I love watching her grow day by day. We have enrolled her in a school and she is already busy with her school assignments.” Way to go, baby!

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Salman & Preity together again this Diwali

Two years after being paired together in JAAN E MANN, Salman Khan and Preity Zinta are being seen together again in HEROES. Incidentally both the films are Diwali releases and while JAAN E MANN released on 20th October, 2006, HEROES is arriving exactly two years later on 24th October 2008.

Salman and Preity would be hoping though that HEROES turns out to be their lucky outing since JAAN E MANN, in spite of being a well made film, was massacred at the box office due to DON - THE CHASE BEGINS AGAIN releasing on the same day.

A trade insider comments, ''Yes, HEROES has Salman and Preity coming together as a special attraction but not much should be read about their presence in HEROES. They play cameos in the film and are a part of one of the many segments in HEROES. There is this entire Sunny Deol-Bobby Deol track and also the one where Mithun and Dino come together. The film basically tells the journey of two youngsters (Sohail Khan and Vatsal Seth) as they come across all these 'real heroes'.''

However, even though Salman and Preity aren't seen throughout the length of the film, the couple does spell success, as witnessed from the films they have done in the past which have gone on to be box office successes. When they came together for the first time, HAR DIL JO PYAAR KAREGA, the film was a hit. Their next outing, CHORI CHORI CHUPKE CHUPKE was successful as well. DIL NE JISE APNA KAHA was a flop though but Preity has a small role in the film. They looked good together in JAAN E MANN and it would certainly have been a success had the film not collided with DON.''

Directed by Samir Karnik, HEROES would be Salman Khan's second film in one month itself. A fortnight earlier, i.e. 10th October, Salman would also be seen in a special appearance in HELLO.

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"My career is top priority, I won't give it up for anything" - Kareena Kapoor

Kareena Kapoor opens her heart out to Subhash K Jha on Saif & career plans…

What is this about you being the highest paid actor in India?
I don't know what other actors get paid. And I don't care. I get what I deserve. I've slogged right from Refugee to Jab We Met and Tashan. An actor is signed for what he/she can deliver.

Is your price flexible?
I've always been flexible with my fee. The hunger is for the right roles.

There were many heightened expectations from your last release Tashan because of Saif and you?
We just did what the script required us to. I don't think people should've gone to see Tashan as Saif and my love story. What does that mean, yaar? We're playing characters. That's why Jab We Met worked. The characters worked. I had earlier done so many films with Shahid while we were seeing each other. They didn't work. Why?

You tell me
Today it's the script that works. All actors are hungry for the right scripts and characters.

All the attention given to your relationship with Saif does that scare you?
I can't stop living my life the way I want to just because of the attention. As long as I don't let my family down, I'm not scared. I'll always retain my values. But yes, at times this endless attention does get scary. There're so many false stories about Saif and me. But it's ok. I understand the need to know what's going in our lives. Are we married…are we not married? Please! Fortunately, I've learnt to take all this unwanted speculation in my stride. The best thing is to keep doing my work and not get affected by the loose talk.

Are you fully comfortable in your relationship with Saif?
Yes. But only the two people in a relationship know what is going on. I don't think people have the right to know what's going on in my private life. They've my films to judge me with. I don't need to give explanations about what happens behind my closed doors. Right now I'm loving it (laughs). The paparazzi are doing their job. We're doing ours. Both Saif and I understand that.

The two of you don't have that much work together.
No after Tashan we only have Rensil D'Silva's film together. Both of us are too sensible to sign films just to spend time together. Saif is way too mature and extremely understanding. He respects the kind of work I like to do as I respect his work. And we keep our careers apart. Saif knows that right now my career is the most important thing to me. And that I need the space to work. To my family and me, my career is top priority. Because I've worked really hard to get where I am. You as a friend have watched my struggle. My family and friends know how much I've slogged. I won't give it up for anything.

So career wins over love.
There's no comparison between the two. When I'm working I'm working. And when I'm with him I'm all there. Besides, Saif is a superstar himself. He's so busy.

How do you rate him as an actor?
I think he is a 10 on 10. The way he can make audiences laugh and cry is amazing. And his one-liners are extremely entertaining. And we're both moody. So that's fine.

After Jab We Met, do you think you've moved into a different league?
My new journey began earlier with Omkara. I began to learn a lot about myself through Vishal Bhardwaj. Don't know about a different league. But I do feel more responsible towards my career. Some people expect the roles that come to me after Jab We Met have to be like 'Geet'. That's not possible. In Tashan too, I've had a fantastic role. But it isn't 'Geet'. In fact, I wanted my look and role in Tashan to be totally different from what I did in Jab We Met. And I think I've succeeded. The two characters and films are totally apart.

Have you turned anorexic?
No, I haven't. I think I had a good physique even before I re-sculpted myself for Tashan. In fact, a lot people preferred me when I was a little weightier. They think I was more charming earlier. So I repeat, this look is just for Tashan. People say I've been on an orange juice diet. I hate it. The only juice I take is cranberry. And I eat healthily, though I'm a pure vegetarian. Being a vegetarian diet helps me to stay light and healthy. I also do yoga or some form of exercise 4-5 times a week. I do not go to the gym. I go for walks regularly. I believe in healthy slimming. Eat well and stay fit. You can't be binging on chocolates all the time. But it's okay to indulge yourself. I do so once or twice a week. Like all Kapoors, I can't stay away from good food.

You seem to have it all. 'Kisi ki nazar na lag jaye'?
I am bogged down by all the attention. I'm human after all. But being a star isn't easy. Of course, I'm a little sacred. I'm treading cautiously personally and professionally.

How excited are you about your current assignments?
All my current assignments are completely different from one another. I'm so excited about working with Aamir Khan in Raj Kumar Hirani's film. Idiots is a comedy with a social message.

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Saif Ali Khan in his new 'Sardar' get-up for his home production

The turban is slowly and surely finding its way with our very own Bollywood actors. After Akshay Kumar's super-duper sardar act in the blockbuster Singh Is Kinng, every actor worth his salt is donning the pagdi these days.

By now its common knowledge that Salman Khan would be seen playing a sardar in Samir Karnik's multi-starrer Heroes and even chocolate boy Ranbir Kapoor is all set to play a sardar in Shimit Amit's next. Now the latest actor to don a pagdi is none other than cool dude Saif Ali Khan.

Saif was seen shooting in this completely new get up for his as yet untitled home production directed by Imtiaz Ali. The film pairs Saif Ali Khan and Deepika Padukone for the first time. The unit recently shot in and around the Lake Market area of Kolkata. In order to avoid any disruptions during the 4 day shoot, the hawkers, vendors etc. were given adequate compensation.

As for Saif's get up, the buzz is that he sports this look during certain flashback sequences in the film. Whether the audiences will warm up to this avatar of 'Chhote Nawab', only time will tell but going by the increasing number of actors donning a pagdi, we can't help but agree that Singh is indeed King.

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1920 - Movie Review

Vikram Bhatt visits the horror genre again, after RAAZ. Also, like RAAZ, 1920 talks of love, lust and paranormal forces. But unlike RAAZ, 1920 is set in the bygone era and that makes RAAZ and 1920 as diverse as chalk and cheese.

After a series of watchable and avoidable fares, Vikram Bhatt is back with a vengeance in his latest endeavour. It may not be the most eerie experience, but it has its share of terrifying moments that one expects from a film that talks of supernatural forces. The best thing about 1920 is that the culmination to the story is most compelling, which is so vital for a horror-mystery.

Any hiccups? The narrative slows down at regular intervals and that robs the film of its shine. Besides, the flashback -- the reason why the spirit seeks revenge -- could've been more impactful.

All said and done, the pros easily outweigh the cons here. Most importantly, 1920 delivers what it promises: Eerie and scary moments aplenty!

The year is 1920 and the house isolated in the wilderness has a secret. It is waiting for the curse to come true. For years, everyone who has tried to pull it down has died of mysterious circumstances.

Arjun [Rajneesh Duggal] and his wife [Adah Sharma] move into the house. He has been given the task of pulling it down and making a hotel there. The house has been waiting for them. Strange and inexplicable events start taking place…

The period look and the castle [located in Yorkshire in actuality], which is an integral part of the story, give the film a distinctive texture. From the writing point of view [story: Vikram Bhatt; screenplay: Vikram Bhatt, Dhiraj Ratan], the love story is well structured and the obstacles the couple face are well depicted.

But the film actually gallops when the spirit takes over the girl's body. Thereafter, incident after incident catches you unaware. Note the sequence at the nursing home, when the spirit talks to the doctor. Or recall the spirit's warning to the priest. The finale -- when Rajneesh chants Hanuman Chalisa -- is another highpoint.

Without doubt, 1920 is amongst Vikram Bhatt's finest works. In fact, it's after a really long gap that Bhatt seems to be in complete command. Pravin Bhatt's camera captures the mood splendidly. The beauty of the castle has been captured very well by the DOP. Adnan Sami's music strikes a chord. 'Bichua' [singer: Shubha Mudgal; filmed on Rakhi Sawant] caters to the masses, while 'Tujhe Main Pyaar Karu' [Kailash Kher] and 'Vaada' [Pt. Jasraj] are aimed at the heart.

Both Rajneesh Duggal and Adah Sharma go through their roles confidently. Adah gets the meatier part and she takes to it like a fish takes to water. She's excellent! Rajneesh has the trappings of a fine actor and though there's slight awkwardness at places, it can be overcome with the passage of time. He has the potential. Anjori Alagh looks beautiful and leaves an impression in the second hour. Indraneel does well. Raj Zutshi [as the priest] is top notch. Vallabh Vyas [doctor] is as usual.

On the whole, 1920 is an engrossing fare that meets the expectations. It has the potential to work at plexes and single screens, metros and mini-metros, catering to all audiences.

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The Last Lear - Movie Review

Rituparno Ghosh, one of the finest storytellers from Bengal, chooses Utpal Dutt's play 'Aajker Shahjahan' as the premise for his new endeavour THE LAST LEAR. The plotline [the story of an aging superstar] as also the execution of the subject is the type that holds appeal for a miniscule section of audience.

The problem with THE LAST LEAR is that there's too much Shakespeare in the movie, which, to put it bluntly, isn't everyone's cup of tea. Besides, certain themes may hold some appeal for those into theatre, but don't work on cinematic level.

Yet, there's no denying that THE LAST LEAR has its share of engrossing moments. A few individualistic sequences are noteworthy as also the portrayal of characters by some prominent names. But that's not enough!

In a nutshell, THE LAST LEAR fails to connect. At best, it may find some patronage at Festivals, but there's nothing for Indian moviegoers.

Harry [Amitabh Bachchan] lives for acting, loves theatre, adores Shakespeare and absolutely detests cinema. Enter Siddharth [Arjun Rampal], a movie director. He is smart, Harry finds out in the very first meeting. He is glad to have found a cerebral partner to have a conversation with.

Slowly, they bond over coffees, vodka and conversations. Harry decides to work in Siddharth's film. New relationships blossom. But an incident changes everything…

Director Rituparno Ghosh's choice of the subject has its limitations. It's good to think different, but THE LAST LEAR is abstract. From the writing point of view, a number of points remain unexplained and even if they are, it's difficult to decipher.

Like, for instance, Shefali Shah's hatred for Preity is unexplainable. Why does Shefali detest Preity? Her problem, in the first place, should've been with the director of the film [Arjun Rampal], not the co-actors. Also, the accident and the aftermath lack clarity. Why does Arjun want a retake? Why does he want Amitabh to perform the death-defying jump all over again? This, when he knows that Amitabh can't see without his glasses. Clearly, the writing has its share of loopholes.

That's not all, for THE LAST LEAR is too verbose, like Rituparno's earlier film RAINCOAT. It gets very talk-heavy after a point and that's quite off-putting.

Amitabh Bachchan is the life of THE LAST LEAR. But it's definitely not his best performance so far. The actor has delivered stronger performances in the past. He's good, not great. Arjun is evolving into a fine actor. After ROCK ON!!, this is another performance that would fetch Arjun laurels. Preity is very effective. Shefali Shah is superb. Divya Dutta is wasted. Prosenjit is alright. Jishu impresses.

On the whole, THE LAST LEAR has something for the Festival circuit, but nothing for the cinema-going audience in India. At the box-office, it caters to a minuscule section of moviegoers at select metros only. Disappointing!

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Shahid Kapur gets selective

Few stars practice what they preach as a source revealed, 'Stars rarely use the brands they so passionately promote. What concerns them is only the money. The only star who chooses to be an exception is Shahid Kapoor.'

According to the source Shahid wants to endorse only those brands that he believes in. 'Corporates queue outside his home hoping to crack a deal with him to endorse their brands. But Shahid is very selective and wants to sign brand that he believes in.

The actor understands that his fans have a certain image of him and he has a certain responsibility towards them and does not want to disappoint them by signing each and every brand. Also he would prefer that there is no brand clutter, so that even the selective brands that he endorses will benefit the brand.

Shahid knows that his fans look upon him as their role model and he has an image to live upto.

He strongly believes in endorsing only those brands that match not only his image but also benefit his fans.'

Shahid believe that he rather wait than jump into the endorsement bandwagon needlessly.

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Big B gears up for The Last Lear

On the eve of the release of his film The Last Lear , Amitabh Bachchan humbly apologised in front of the media for the remarks made by Jaya Bachchan at the music launch of Drona a few days back. Trying to keep controversies aside, Big was fully geared up for The Last Lear .

Talking about his role, Amitabh said, “I am playing a retired Shakespearan actor who is acting in a film. Arjun Rampal is the director of the film.”

Bachchan had a great time working with the director Rituparna Ghosh. “I was really interested in working with Rituparna Ghosh since a very long time. Finally we got a script to work together upon. I have to say that it was a fantastic experience in working with an exceptional director like Rituparna Ghosh. He is not just exceptional in his thoughts but in his writing and also in the way in which he treats his artists. He provoked and excited us to a great extent.”

After having delivered dialogues in Hindi for so many years, how was it delivering dialogues in English? “I had no problems in delivering them. It was deliberate to keep it in Engish as the subject was concerning an actor who was a retired Shakespearean actor. When you talk of Shakespeare, it has to be English.”

Bachchan had a nostalgic time shooting on the streets of Kolkata. “I had an amazing time shooting in Kolkata as I had worked there for eight years not as an actor but as an executive. The people of Kolkata have always shown great affection for things that are artistic. I hope they enjoy the film as much as everyone else.”

We hope that there are no problems in the release of the film and the audience is able to see Amitabh Bachchan’s performance in the film which has been hailed as his finest performance till date by many critics.

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Bips, John Love New York

"It's not really a holiday," warns Bipasha Basu, as she prepares to leave for a nine-day long trip to the US this week. John flew out to Philadelphia last night for the shooting of Kabeer Khan's untitled film, after which the unit will head to New York.

"I set out to have fun during these foreign trips. But I end up doing more work than having any time to relax and enjoy," says Bips.

The actress further warns, 'John and I are not going together. He's going for the shooting of his film and I'm going for some work. But we will meet up in New York. And he'll hardly have time since the shooting schedule is very tight. So we can't call it a holiday. He's shooting a very tough film. So I can hardly be a distraction. But yes, we're meeting up in New York once I finish my work. Let's see how it goes."

The past fortnight has been hectic for Bipasha. "I moved into my new place down the road from where I live.

But I don't feel I've moved into a new place, as I've turned my new home into a miniature version of the old one. Everything is exactly the same and the positioning of the furniture included. So my friends wonder if I like the comfort of the familiar so much. I do."

She ends, "I like the space I am in. I'm pretty happy with the way this year is going. Both my films Race and Bachna Ae Haseeno have done well. And I've been liked in both. I can't ask for more."

As a parting shot, Bipasha says, "My boyfriend's film Dostana's trailer was shown along with my film Bachna Ae Haseeno. So I've done my bit for his film."

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Priyanka Chopra's Sexy New Look in "Drona"

Pretty Priyanka Chopra's turning sexy bodyguard in her upcoming film, "Drona." Pinks had to undergo hours of training to prepare for the rigorous action sequences. Something else interesting to note is the dance number, "Oop Oop Cha" which features male dancers who are all gay from the underground club, Sun of the Beach in New Jersey! Seems like there's a lot riding on the success of the film, which hit theatres on October 2nd.

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Carnival time for Akshay!

Everyone knows that Akshay Kumar dotes on his son Aarav but the superbusy actor is doing something extra-special for him on the tot's birthday (September 15), when Aarav turns six.

Says a source, "Akki has always been a devoted father but this year he wanted to do something extra special and memorable as he has been travelling a lot and hasn't been able to spend as much time with his only child, as much as he'd like to.

Just last week, he was shooting in Phuket for Blue, then he flew to Toronto for the screening of Singh Is Kinng and on Monday, he was back in Phuket." Today is Akshay's birthday and he is shooting. But for Aarav's birthday, he is taking a break and coming to Mumbai for a day. The actor is more anxious about Aarav's b'day than his own. Twinkle and Aarav have joined him in Phuket for a quiet family celebration. Akshay turns 41 this year."

Daddy dearest has been personally supervising all the party arrangements from Phuket and Toronto. The source adds, "Akshay hasn't yet decided what gift to give to Aarav. He's still deciding. But he has planned a big party at his Juhu home for his son. The theme is carnival and there will be lots of games, music, clowns and the entire place will be decorated. It's essentially a kiddie bash but B-Town parents will accompany their children. Papa Kumar will fly in on the 15th and take a flight back to Phuket the following day."

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There is No THE END for this jodi

Akshay Kumar and Katrina Kaif are at it once again. The hit jodi, that was last seen in Singh Is Kinng last month, reunites for yet another comedy flick.

Only this time, it's directed by Priyadarshan.

A source in the industry reveals, "After the success of Singh Is Kinng, there was a strong buzz that it would be their last film together. The producer of the film, Vipul Shah announced, however, that the on-screen hit couple would be seen in his untitled film, which he intends to start after London Dreams. But it seems that Ratan Jain of Venus Records and Tapes have got Katrina to sign on the dotted line for his next multi-starrer titled De Dana Dan opposite Akki. The comedy film is directed by Priyadarshan and also stars Sunil Shetty, Paresh Rawal, Neha Dhupia and Sameera Reddy."

The source further adds, "This is going to be the Akki and Kat's fifth feature film together. In the past, all the movies they have been paired in have gone on to be blockbusters; except for their very first film together, Raj Kanwar's Humko Deewana Kar Gaye. However, De Dana Dan is going to mount the sets by November this year and will be shot in a single two-month long schedule in Singapore. Earlier, the southern actress Asin was meant to be opposite Akki. Due to date problems, however, she won't be doing the film."

Producer Ratan Jain remained unavailable for comment while Katrina Kaif refused to comment.

Akshay and Katrina's past movies together
Singh Is Kinng (2008)
Welcome (2007)
Namastey London (2007)
Humko Deewana Kar Gaye (2006)

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Karishma is afraid!

If Bunty Walia and National award winning director Rahul Dholakia had had their way, Karisma Kapur would have made her much-touted comeback on the big screen opposite Sanjay Dutt in Lamha.

Karisma had been finalised to play the female lead in Lamha, but she reportedly backed out at the last minute because she feared shooting in the troubled Kashmir valley where a significant part of the film is going to be shot. However, the search for the girl to star opposite Dutt in the film is over. Bipasha Basu has replaced Karisma.
When contacted, Bunty confirmed and said, “Yes. Bipasha is doing Lamha. She suits the role perfectly.”

Earlier, there were also rumours that Ameesha Patel and Sonam Kapoor might star opposite Sanju. Dholakia said, “Like we do in every casting process, Bunty had spoken to a few other girls. We had finalised on Karisma who said that she loved the role. But later, she got back to Bunty and told him that she had reservations about shooting in the Kashmir valley.”

Rahul and Bunty, of course, are happy to have Bips on board. “Bipasha is willing to spend a lot of time in the Kashmir valley and learn the way a Kashmiri girl should speak. We are not disappointed that Karisma is not doing the film.”

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Ana Singh's Store Launch - Video

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Kajol inaugurates designer Anna Singh's signature design store

Ana Singh is one lucky lady.

What else should be said after the glitzy and star studded opening of her first boutique in Bandra.

Actress Kajol came with her sister Tanisha. She did the honour of launching the store.

Till midnight, celebrities were seen coming to and going from the new born store.

Ana is also did the interior designing of the store along with Ayesha Shroff and invaluable inputs from Zarine Khan, Suzzane Roshan. The candles were designed by Dimple Kapadia.

The store caters to the needs of the people who are interested in signature prin