Aamir Khan blogs his heart out about the Terror attacks

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

SHOCKED HEARTBROKEN HELPLESS ANGRY

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jai Hind.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Riya Sen talks about friend Ashish Chowdhury's loss

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Ashish Chowdhry Loses His Sister & Brother In Law To Terrorism

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

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

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

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

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

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What's with the accent Priyanka

She's said to have put on one in Dubai

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Some more body show by John

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

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

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

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Katrina on Vogue India cover

But she doesn't look her usual self

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

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

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

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

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Arjun Rampal turns 36 today

Officially, there are no plans for a party

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

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

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

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

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John plans a home expansion

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Bill Clinton wants Big B

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

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

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

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

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

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

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I'm the female Akshay: Deepika

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Karan Johar features in the November issue of People

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

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

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

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

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Wishing Arjun Rampal a Very Happy Birthday

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

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

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

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Karan Johar confirms DOSTANA collections

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Priyanka Chopra features in the November issue of music magazine Blender

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Kareena says no to British PM for KJO

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Hrithik Roshan has a message for kids with disabilities

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

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

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

Sharing his own trauma at Nanavati was a cathartic experience.

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

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

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

The wing has been named after his grandmother Ira Roshan.

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

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

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Kareena to visit Saif's ancestral Pataudi village

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Raveena refuses to play Ajay Devgan's mom

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Celebration time for Abhishek, John & Priyanka

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

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

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Aishwarya Rai faces a barrage of questions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Priyanka Chopra Named 'Goddess of Atlantis'

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Yuvraaj - Movie Review

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

YUVVRAAJ is no exception!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Kangna Ranaut features in the November issue of Seventeen

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

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

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

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Sush will celebrate her birthday in Goa

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Bebo crashes!

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

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

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

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

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

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Mallika joins ranks with Hayek

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

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

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

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

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

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

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"I am tragedy queen"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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India's Sexiest Dad Arjun Rampal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Cold Times

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Abhishek’s Ravana

Abhishek and Aishwarya are in the beautiful jungles of Kochi shooting for Mani Ratnam’s tentatively titled Ravana . For the audience who loved the duo in Guru and longed to have an eyeful of them yet again, romancing each other, here’s a little disappointment.

Unlike what many would have thought and wished for, Abhi will not play Ram but, the character of Ravana. Aishwarya is slated to portray the role of Sita and playing Ram to her will be Vikram, a popular actor from down South. The Ram-Sita-Ravana story will be incomplete without Hanuman and to play the bit, Ratnam has roped in Govinda.

When we asked Abhishek about how he is gearing up for the role he said, “It’s a joke between Mani and me. He got me to put on weight for Guru and now he wants me to lose it for Ravana.”

But there is something more than just the weight training and harsh diets that has made the shooting quite tough. We hear that Abhi has hurt himself and the area from the knee to the base of his shin has been bruised.

To make matters worse, as he is shooting in the jungles, he has to wear trousers, unlike the comfort of wearing shorts while shooting for Dostana . Being into a trouser all day is further abrading the skin. But then, Abhi has loving wife Ash by his side so we are sure things will be ok for him soon.

Abhi has also gone real short with his hair this time. In fact, it is the shortest hair cut he has sported ever on screen and off it, almost like a crew cut.

With Ratnam behind the lens and actors like Abhi, Ash, Vikram and Govinda playing the mythological characters one wonders what is the story of Ravana that Mani Ratnam wants to tell us?

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Multiplex junta's new dost

Let's face facts! A handful of actors [SRK, Aamir, Akshay, Hrithik] have the power to lure audiences in hordes. Their solo starrers have the magnetism to draw audiences to theatres. The remaining actors work in packages only, unless there's a fluke success.

At the cost of puncturing the ego of many a star, the fact remains that their solo starrers would [a] Find it tough to get the right distributor and the right price, [b] Find it tough to fetch lucrative terms from exhibitors, [c] Find it tough to fetch a staggering start at the box-office. But, as a package, with Karan Johar in the driver's seat in this case [DOSTANA], it has ensured [a] An attractive price from its principal distributors [Rs. 50 cr. +], [b] The best terms from exhibitors, [c] A favourable start at the ticket counters.

If the Friday figures of DOSTANA were good, the film actually showed its strength on Saturday and Sunday. This trend was witnessed not just in India, but also in the West. The U.K. and U.S. day-wise figures indicate a big jump on Saturday and Sunday. In India, the first weekend is roughly in the range of Rs. 18 - Rs. 20 cr. nett [as per industry experts and also Dharma Productions], definitely NOT Rs. 15 cr. nett, as some ill-informed sources would like us to believe.

So what does the Rs. 18 - Rs. 20 cr. nett mean? Translated into simple terms, it means DOSTANA is off to a great start, despite the Abhishek - Priyanka starrer DRONA still fresh in our minds. John's solo act in NO SMOKING hasn't been forgotten either.

Armed with a superb start, DOSTANA was expected to have a meltdown effect from Monday onwards, but the weekdays have been in the 45% to 60% range at most plexes, which is great. The youth has taken to the film in a big way, that's the writing on the wall.

Of course, DOSTANA is a non-performer at most single screens, except those patronised by elite. So what? That's not new! Hasn't that been the trend for all Karan Johar movies? Weren't KAL HO NAA HO and KABHI ALVIDA NAA KEHNA non-performers at single screens? Why, even KUCH KUCH HOTA HAI, considered a classic by many, besides being a Blockbuster, didn't work in Bihar.

That's what I like about Karan Johar. He's got the fundas right, he knows his target audience well. In any case, in today's times, 70% of our revenues are generated from plexes in India and Overseas. In India, DOSTANA is the flavour of the season. In Overseas, it's one of the biggest draws of the year [as pointed out by this writer in the review of DOSTANA last week].

If the film holds well in its second weekend - I'm sure, the numbers will be strong - DOSTANA would safely recover the high price that's attached to it.

The target audience of DASVIDANIYA was the same as DOSTANA - multiplex junta - and I strongly feel that DASVIDANIYA got sidelined for this reason. With the youth/multplex crowd tilting towards DOSTANA, DASVIDANIYA, expectedly, had a lukewarm start at the box-office [10%; at places, 5% to 7%]. But the film gathered steam on Saturday and Sunday as the word of mouth has been extremely positive for this Vinay Pathak starrer. Favourable reviews in the media have also helped. Of course, the numbers haven't shown a big jump, but there has been an escalation for sure.

DASVIDANIYA enjoys good reports and I hope the plexes continue to play the film in its second weekend, so that it gets a chance to grow. Films like DASVIDANIYA need to be nurtured, it's a worthy case!

DESHDROHI, the much-in-news film, found ample patronage at the single screens of U.P. and Bihar.

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Mugdha Godse tops online poll for most popular actress

Former supermodel Mugdha Godse, who debuted in Madhur Bhandarkar's "Fashion", has topped an online poll as the most popular actress in Bollywood now.

To everyone's surprise, Mugdha left behind leading actresses like Aishwarya Rai, Katrina Kaif and Kareena Kapoor and topped the charts with a whopping 1,600 hits in the live poll conducted by Buzz18.com, the online entertainment wing of the Web18 network group.

The newcomer earned rave reviews for her performance as Janet Sequeira in "Fashion", which also featured Priyanka Chopra, Kangana Ranaut, Arbaaz Khan and Arjan Bajwa.

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Akshay Kumar has impressed Sallu

Bollywood star Salamn Khan seems to be quite impressed with his colleague Akshay Kumar's growth as an actor over the years.

On being asked who has impressed him by his acting skills in the recent past, Salman said: "Akshay has impressed me by his acting skills in the recent past. I think he (Akshay) is the only actor who has really grown as an actor."

Salman was speaking to reporters on Monday at the promotional event of his forthcoming release "Yuvvraaj", which also stars Anil Kapoor, Katrina Kaif and Zayed Khan.

About the film, he said: "It is about brothers played by Anil, Zayed and me. The film is about the manipulations of the brothers to get the ancestral property. I play the second brother Deven, who tries to get a part of his ancestral property to fulfil the conditions laid down by his to-be father-in-law to marry his daughter (Katrina Kaif)."

Salman has teamed up with director-producer Subhash Ghai for the first time for the film. He said that Ghai had approached him earlier too.

"Subhashji had approached me before, but I did not accept the offer because I thought I could not do justice to the roles. But, I accepted this film because it is the story of three brothers and I could relate to the emotions."

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Katrina Kaif homesick in New York

Katrina Kaif is currently shooting in New York with John Abraham and Neil Nitin Mukesh for Kabir Khan's next venture, but she isn't too happy being away from home and family.

"My professional commitments keep me busy, but I'm feeling homesick. I miss my family a lot. I miss my home," said Katrina, who has been shooting for "New York" for over two months.

The actress is, however, keeping content with plans for a Christmas reunion with her family.

"I am trying my best to see if we can all be together. I hope no professional work comes up then. I am keeping my fingers crossed," she said.

Katrina was seen in this year's biggest hit "Singh Is Kinng".

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Karan Johar holds special screening of Dostana

Karan Johar had a special screening of his latest production “Dostana” for a gay community website from Mumbai. The film was very well received by the members of that club.

The movie is running at an average occupancy of 75-80 per cent. Some multiplex chains feel Dostana's collection at the box office will be better than those of the recently released “Golmaal Returns”, which did a business of Rs.720 million (Rs 72 crores) gross at the box office in one week.

“Dostana” released worldwide on November 14 with 1,000 prints.

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Hrithik continues being busy

Hrithik Roshan returned to Mumbai from Mexico in mid-October after a four-month long shooting schedule of “Kites” with Barbara Mori and Kangana Ranaut.

And he’s been busy ever since he came back.

As many would know, Hrithik as a child had to undergo therapy to check his stammering problem. So it was payback time as he donated Rs.20 lakhs towards Nanavati Hospital’s audiology department under his grandmother Ira Roshan’s name.

Next, he went back to doing his endorsement work. In the next few days he will start shooting ads for some of the brands he endorses. One can expect to see him in his “Kites” look, sporting curly golden-brown hair and beard, in ads for brands like Macro Man and Coke.

Post this, the Mumbai schedule of “Kites” will commence and will go on till February end. "After the ‘Kites’ schedule in February, Hrithik will again shoot for John Players and Cinthol, and some other brands too in March," says Tannuja Mehra of Carving Dreams, which handles his business.

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Hrithik Roshan inaugurates Nanavati Hospital's Electrophysiology and Electroacoustic Centre of Audiology and Speech Therapy

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Salman Khan, Ajay Devgan, Kajol, John Abraham and Kareena Kapoor at the Times Food and Nightlife Awards 2008-09

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Shahrukh Khan and Arjun Rampal at a Children's Day event at Dhirubhai Ambani International School

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Koffee With Karan - Book Review

'Koffee With Karan' - One wonders whether Karan Johar himself is aware about this book being published. Agreed that he has been all busy with Dostana and yet-to-get-on-floors My Name Is Khan, but it is rather surprising that he hasn't uttered a single word on 'Koffee With Karan', the book which has found it's way into the shelves. This is a book which publishes the script of some of the select celebrity chats that Karan Johar engaged with in his extremely popular television show by the same name which has been running season after season. A good idea indeed which is let down completely due to poor layout and presentation!

That's right. What could well have been an engaging exercise is relegated to being a chapter-by-chapter account of what happened in each of the episodes; just like it would happen in a school text book. In fact the layout format of 'Koffee With Karan' appears to be a school/college guide with an unimaginative design, boring presentation and some tiresome read.

Of course, on the face value it did seem like a good idea i.e. to present the scripts of all the episodes verbatim for readers to cherish in case they have missed seeing them on the telly. In fact, even for those who have seen the episodes already, it may not have been a bad idea to revisit all the fun, humor and scandals that were unveiled in trademark Karan style. However, it is choice of publication house which is the piece of the villain here since it doesn't even try to benefit from the big opportunity it had in hand and instead merely places the entire script in a chapter after chapter format.

While the conversational text does become cumbersome after a point (there are close to 550 pages in the book), what makes it readable to some extent are the snippets that are placed page after page which highlights some of the quotable quotes. In fact I found myself only going through them after a point in time since that seemed to be good enough for me to gather any 'masala', if at all it was present in any episode. Beyond this, 'Koffee With Karan' turns out to be a book which one may want to finish one chapter at a time in one's spare time. In nutshell, hardly a book which classifies itself as 'can't be put down till the last page is through' kinds.

For those who are interested to know the episodes that the book covers, the celebrities being covered are Shah Rukh, Kajol, Rani, Kareena, Preity, Saif, Aishwarya, Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Fardeen, Zayed, Gurinder Chadha, Farah Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, Gauri Khan, Suzanne Roshan, Bipasha, Lara, Ekta Kapoor, Sunita Menon, Sushmita, Sanjay Dutt, Rakhi Sawant, Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Shabana Azmi, Shobha Dey, Rahul Bose, Konkona Sen, Priyanka Chopra, Arjun Rampal, Vivek Oberoi, John Abraham, Malaika Arora, Amrita Arora, Neetu Singh, Rishi Kapoor, Esha Deol, Shahid Kapoor, Hema Malini and Zeenat Aman.

Some of the quotes that made 'Koffee With Karan' the celebrity show it was are reproduced as below:

"The strangest thing people wonder about me is whether I am a homosexual or bisexual. You know, I cannot have two kids by heavy petting" - Shah Rukh Khan

"Anil Kapoor was the worst dancer I have ever worked with" - Farah Khan

"I often love to hate Aishwarya" - Sanjay Leela Bhansali

"I believe that doctors would give you what God could not" - Rakhi Sawant

"Good girls go to heaven; naughty girls go everywhere" - Amrita Arora

"Vivek Oberoi is the most over rated actor in Hindi cinema" - Sanjay Leela Bhansali

"People came to see Bipasha Basu in Jism; no one came to see me" - John Abraham

"Women's feet turn me on" - Sanjay Dutt

"Aamir Khan told me that I was doing Sameer's character all wrong in Dil Chahta Hai" - Saif Ali Khan

"Aishwarya Rai is the worst dressed Indian woman" - Shobha De

"90 percent of Indian cinema is crap" - Rahul Bose

"I am affirming that the casting couch for men exists in the modeling world" - Arjun Rampal

"The best part about being a superstar is that you can wear the most outrageous of clothes and they say 'it's in!'" - Amitabh Bachchan

Of course quite a few of these quotes were made months back when the episodes were telecast (and may have even lost relevance today) but nevertheless they do make for a spicy read at places. In the end, 'Koffee With Karan' isn't even the kind which would turn on the biggest of the movie buffs. At maximum, its readership is restricted to the select few who have been absolutely clueless about how the show 'Koffee With Karan' looked like (difficult to imagine such a breed!) or those who were in love with the show and want to go through the chapters due to sheer nostalgia.

Price: Rs. 395/=

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"It's an honour to work with Bipasha" - John Abraham

John Abraham is in no hurry either. Several actors have gone ahead and signed multiple film deals with major corporate houses at astronomical prices, but John has decided to go slow. "I am not in a hurry really," John tells me.

Seriously, doesn't he get insecure when he reads that an 'x' actor has signed a Rs. 60 crore deal or 'y' getting into a 3-film contract for a humungous figure? Doesn't he want to be a part of this rat race? "Believe me, I have never felt insecure. And I don't believe in signing 3 or 4-film deals, even if the money is lucrative. You need to draw a line somewhere," John states.

While AASHAYEIN is already complete [slated for release early next year], followed by Yash Raj's NEW YORK [directed by Kabeer Khan], John will begin work on Abbas Tyrewala's film. "I want to take a break once I am through with Abbas' film. I've been living out of my suitcase for a while now. I need to relax," he states.

The media was agog with rumours of John and Katrina sharing cold vibes while shooting for NEW YORK in America. If true, doesn't it hamper the quality of work? "Yes, it does! But Katrina and I are thorough professionals. It's completely false that we didn't get along, I don't know how this originated," he clarifies.

What about Bipasha? Is there a possibility of the much-in-news couple featuring in a film together? "I'd love to work with Bipasha. I loved her performances in RACE as also BACHNA AE HASEENO. Bipasha was gracious enough to work with me when I was nobody [JISM]. It would be an honour if I get an opportunity of working with her again," he states.

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Mallika Sherawat features in the November issue of Grazia

What do you call a lady who owns the patent of all the three degrees of Hot, Hotter and Hottest? Before you start rattling down names or disturb the traffic of Google, let us tell you that she is none other than Madame Mallika Sherawat, who is (needless to say) all over not just the place, but also over everyone's hearts! If that was not enough, then, she is in a very corporately chic avatar in the latest edition of the fashion magazine Grazia.

They talk about the 'Girl next door'. But looking at Mallika, even this tag fails to impress the situation. The term that really describes her best is 'The Boss Next Cabin'. For starters, Mallika, who is known for her 'words-faster-than-bullets' kind of speech, has mellowed down now, and which shows in the whole of the interview. The whole article is more of an A-Z of Mallika (from what she was to what she is today), which is accompanied by snaps (full marks to the photographer for presenting her like never before) which complements the article. A small mention to the section of '5 Things To Know About Mallika', which gives an insight of the 'Real Mallika'!

All in all, it's indeed a collectors issue to say the least!

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3 Idiots - First Look

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Munna Bhai Chale America - First Look

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Taalismaan - First Look

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Imran's new look for 'Delhi Belly'

Have you seen Imran Khan lately? Long, dishevelled hair, a stubble, he's even lost weight. All for a role. The film in question? Uncle Aamir Khan's DELHI BELLY. "I am on a strict diet, having one meal a day. That's the demand of the character. He has to look lean. Aamir Uncle has asked me to follow a regime, you know how particular he is about everything," Imran tells me.

Talking of DELHI BELLY, Imran feels the film holds tremendous appeal for the international audiences. "It should prove to be that breakthrough film in the international markets. Aamir knows better, he must've done a lot of homework before plunging headlong into this film," he adds. I endorse this viewpoint!

The moment Imran completes DELHI BELLY, he has to regain the lost weight and muscles for LUCK, which is heading towards completion.

Besides DELHI BELLY and LUCK [signed before JAANE TU... YA JAANE NA], Imran hasn't signed any new film yet. "There've been offers, but nothing that would excite me. I've decided to take a break of at least a few months before I sign my next venture. I've been shooting non-stop, I need to unwind before I accept new assignments," Imran states.

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Success party of Fashion

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Salman Khan at the Indian Express Photo Awards function

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Priyanka Chopra on a roll

She has played a supergirl, a supermodel, a superstar and is now back on the silver screen tickling the funny bone as a sassy desi girl.

Priyanka Chopra or Piggy Chops as she is fondly called may be seven years old in the Hindi film industry, but this year has been particularly busy and diverse for her. She is perhaps the only leading star who has had as many as six releases in one year. And most importantly she has played a central role in nearly all of them.

Beginning the year with a special appearance in a medium-budget "My Name Is Anthony Gonsalves", she was then seen as uber stylish superstar in "Love Story 2050". Touted as India's first film set in the future, Priyanka looked the part as a red-head.

The film, marking the launch of Harman Baweja, had some serious money riding on it, but bombed for no fault of the actors.

Then came Salman Khan-starrer "God Tussi Great Ho", which also did not make a dent at the box-office. She was then seen in off-beat filmmaker Kabeer Koushik's "Chamku", co-starring Bobby Deol.

She got the rare feast of being called a supergirl with "Drona", yet another very high-budget film. Some of her action sequences were as hard as that of Abhishek's itself and built on her previous action-packed experience in Farhan Akhtar's "Don".

Priyanka's central role in Madhur Bhandarkar's "Fashion", that has done exceedingly well, has brought in both critical acclaim and proved her clout to pull in crowds. It is perhaps the only recent female-centric film that has done good business.

It seems there is no looking back for her now with the hype generated around latest-release "Dostana" ensuring bumper opening of the film. And Priyanka's toned and shapely appearance in a golden bikini has established her as a top contender for the most hottie title.

The rise to the top has been fast but not completely smooth for the former Miss World. Last year saw Priyanka's popularity slipping after the multi-starrer of the year - "Salaam-E-Ishq" - had critics questioning her acting. But she took it as a challenge and worked on her acting as well as sweated it out in the gym.

Diversity within the fold of commercial film format has been the guiding force of Priyanka's career from the very start. She caught people's attention with her unconventional role of a seductress indulging in male harassment in "Aitraaz". She also got nominated for the best supporting female actor for "The Hero: Love Story of a Spy".

She followed it up by excelling in a comic role in "Mujhse Shaadi Karoge". In fact, she bagged three Filmfare Awards in just two years. And with no god father in the industry propping her up, Priyanka has surely come a long way.

"Priyanka has done what few would dare to, in 'Fashion' and 'Dostana'," author and critic Bhawana Somaaya said in an interview.

With heroine-oriented films tasting success today, the road ahead seems to be full of opportunities for these leading ladies.

"In every era, one heroine has always dominated the scene in the film industry. Things are more fluid now. Today, Katrina Kaif, Kareena Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra are all sharing this space," said Siddharth Anand, director of the hit "Bachna Ae Haseeno".

Bhawana said: "They are all confident women of this generation who all have their own distinct personalities."

Perhaps that would explain why "Fashion" released with more than 700 prints around the country, and Kareena Kapoor dominated publicity material of "Golmaal Returns" though she has a small role in it.

As product placement and corporate funding of films increases, female characters are bond to be in the forefront today. After all, women make most purchasing decisions and corporates want them to see and relate to the films that feature their products.

"I couldn't have entered the industry at a better time," Katrina Kaif is quoted as saying in an interview. "Today, perceptions have changed. How else would you explain the audience accepting me in different roles so wholeheartedly? I don't think that was possible, say, 10 years ago," said Katrina, who will be seen in "Yuvvraaj" in a different avatar.

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Shahid's role in 'Paathshaala' different from Aamir's 'Taare'

Shahid Kapur's role as teacher in upcoming film "Paathshaala" is very different from Aamir Khan's in "Taare Zameen Par", says choreographer-turned-producer Ahmed Khan.

"There is no similarity between Shahid's role in the film and Aamir's character in 'Taare Zameen Par'. In his film, Aamir was dealing with one child who was dyslexic, but Shahid deals with many kids and basically with the whole education system in 'Paathshaala'," Khan told IANS.

"Paathshaala", directed by Milind Ukey, is Khan's production debut and revolves around a group of troubled young students. And Shahid has not charged any fee.

"Shahid and I are very good friends. We share a great rapport. When I told him about the film, he said he wanted to be a part of it even though the role wasn't long enough. He treats my wife like his sister; so as a goodwill gesture he decided not to charge any money for the role," Khan said.

Along with Shahid, the film also stars Nana Patekar and Ayesha Takia in pivotal roles. Child actors Swini Khara, Dwij Yadav, Ali Haji and "Balika Vadhu" star Avika Gor are also part of the cast.

"Paathshaala" is primarily a children's film, said Khan, adding that working with children was a great experience.

"Shooting with these kids was not difficult at all since they are natural actors and thorough professionals. Shooting with them was a great experience as I never thought that children could be such serious actors," said Khan, who was in the capital for the Nickelodeon channel's "Nick Toon Jockey Hunt".

Khan, known for his choreography in films like "Rangeela", "Ghulam", "Taal", "Salaam Namaste" and "Jab We Met", has tried his hand at direction as well. He wielded the megaphone for "Lakeer" and "Fool N Final", but both the ventures bombed.

However, he is optimistic about "Paathshaala", saying it is "very appealing".

"'Paathshaala' will touch everyone who has children and even those who don't. It is a film that deals with a grave issue and I'm sure people will relate to it. It is very appealing," he said.

Khan has been keeping really busy these days. Apart from producing "Paathshaala", he has also choreographed songs for the much talked about Aamir Khan-starrer "Ghajini".

"I enjoyed doing the choreography for the song 'Guzarish'. It was done in the exotic locales of Namibia. Another song that required Aamir to do totally western steps is my best work ever. The song is great and I'm sure it will be highly appreciated," Khan said.

Khan is teaming up with Aamir and music director A.R. Rehman after 13 years in "Ghajini". The last film they worked together was "Rangeela".

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"Natural calamities will end global financial crisis"

Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty says she belongs to a spiritual movement that believes the only way out of the present global financial crisis is through natural calamities - because the world is "overpopulated".

"I belong to a movement called the Oneness University who expect things in the financial environment to get worse before 2012.

"It's very logical - the world is overpopulated and we suffer things like global warming and poverty as a result. The only way to achieve balance is to let nature take its course through natural calamities," she told The Daily Telegraph newspaper.

In an interview on matters of personal finance, she was asked if she believed the current market difficulties were happening for a reason.

Shetty said that from a "spiritual perspective" she did not think "anyone needs to be apologetic about being successful or having money".

"The more successful you are, the more job opportunities you create for other people.

"But I have high personal values and I will not compromise or do anything I'm uncomfortable with just to make money. Some people play dirty and if you do that it will have repercussions. If you keep a clean heart with your money, you will have a clean karmic cycle, but the day you do something negative to another person that karmic circle will start to bring you down."

She described the financial crisis as "a kind of natural calamity in the economic system and its purpose is to restore balance".

"I believe there are many people in the West who are always inundated with work and forget to have a life. In a way, for them, this financial downturn can be their wake-up call," she added.

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Anil Kappor's 'Slumdog Millionaire' gets record start in US

"Slumdog Millionaire", a film about an Indian game show starring Anil Kapoor and Dev Patel, released in the US this week and registered the highest average of any movie during the first weekend.

Fox Searchlight's "Slumdog Millionaire" grossed $418,000 since it opened Nov 12 in 10 theatres in six cities -- New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Washington, Chicago and Toronto.

The weekend gross was $350,434, with per-theatre average of $35,043. This is the highest average gross by far for any film at the box office.

Following an overwhelming response, a company release said that the film would this week expand to 32 theatres from 10. This includes its release in 10 more cities - Baltimore, Boston, Dallas, Denver, Minneapolis, Philadelphia, Phoenix, San Diego, Seattle and Vancouver.

Based on the novel "Q&A" by Vikas Swarup, an Indian diplomat, the movie is set in Mumbai and made by British director Danny Boyle. It is the story of Jamal Malik (Dev Patel), an 18-year-old orphan from the slums of Mumbai, who is about to experience the biggest day of his life.

With the whole nation watching, he is just one question away from winning a staggering Rs.20 million on India's "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?" show.

But when the show breaks for the night, police arrest him on suspicion of cheating; how could a street kid know so much? Desperate to prove his innocence, Jamal tells the story of his life in the slum where he and his brother grew up, of their adventures together on the road, of vicious encounters with local gangs, and of Latika (Freida Pinto), the girl he loved and lost. Each chapter of his story reveals the key to the answer to one of the game show's questions.

The film has received some rave reviews in the US media. It was the winner of the 2008 Toronto Film Festival People's Choice Award.

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Abhishek wins accolades for DOSTANA

Heaving a sigh of relief – That must exactly be the state of Abhishek Bachchan, what with his DOSTANA opening to a good response all over. The percentage occupancy at theaters may not be exceptional (it is in 70%–80% range) considering the film has opened to 12–14–16 shows at all leading multiplexes across the country, but the fact remains that collections at the end of Day 1 have been bountiful.

This brings one to an all important question – Has Abhishek Bachchan finally got a bona fide box office success to his name in 2008?

Well, the answer to this question is a definite Yes. While his SARKAR RAJ too had taken a good opening at the box office, it settled to be an average earner from box office point of view (though home video and satellite made the film a further plus in the long run). However, DOSTANA has been liked even more by the audience, especially the bunch of youngsters in the urban centers (the target audience for the film) hence ensuring that Karan Johar, Yash Raj Films (the distributors), Tarun Mansukhani (the director), composers Vishal and Shekhar and the cast of the film including Abhishek Bachchan, John Abraham and Priyanka Chopra have all the right reasons to kick start celebrations.

What has also been the unanimous reactions amongst the audience and media folks is Abhishek being the scene stealer of the show. Of course John's presence elevates the film to a different altogether, what with his stunning physique resulting in all the 'oohs' and 'aahs' and sometimes even outrageous roars from the female crowds in the auditorium but Abhishek's mischievous act makes DOSTANA a fun show all the way.

Watch out for his 'Once Upon A Time' in Venice act or 'Beedi Jalaile' jig with Boman Irani or his shock at Kirron Kher finally accepting John as her 'bahu' or the comical outburst of 'You keep Bobby, I don't need him' sequence with Priyanka – these are some of the gems that make Abhishek's performance come out as one of his best ever acts ever.

With a success under his belt, Abhishek can finally breathe easy post the debacle of DRONA. Also, it makes his DILLI 6 interesting all over again, hence promising a fresh start in year 2009!

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There is blood on Kangna's back!

They may make movies which do not belong to the erotic genre but skin never fails to make an appearance into their films. Something like that is visible in their First Look poster of RAAZ – THE MYSTERY CONTINUES as well where Kangna's bare back makes a cracking appearance.

Though Bhatts and Mohit Suri, director of RAAZ – THE MYSTERY CONTINUES, have pulled all stops in ensuring that the message of horror, scares and chills is passed on to the audience, Kangna's bare back has managed to give an altogether different dimension to the film.

Says Mukesh Bhatt about the design that Vishesh Films has in mind for promoting RAAZ – THE MYSTERY CONTINUES 'We want to convey the right mood of the film without resorting to being gory or too violent. RAAZ – THE MYSTERY CONTINUES, as conveyed by the title, is centered on mystery and this is what remains to be it's true essence.'

What makes the look of the film further deadly is the fact that in spite of ample skin show here, there is no apparent element of erotica. Instead the poster has an international appeal to it with the film's title written on Kangna's back with blood. Also, if one looks closely, Kangna's long fingers are clasped like claws while her teeth are clinched, hence sending the message loud and clear that the film is a fear fest in the offering.

Adds Bhatt, ' RAAZ – THE MYSTERY CONTINUES deals with issues of the 'evil within' the human psyche and how it manifests itself. It is based on the myths and superstitions that are still widely existent in the contemporary Indian society. The film attempts to challenge one's beliefs about paranormal phenomena. It is about anticipation of fear and the fright residing within ones' self.'

Well, with a tagline that goes as 'This Winter... Fear Comes Home', one can well believe that to be the case. A supernatural thriller which also stars Emraan Hashmi and Adhyayan Suman, the film is directed by Mohit Suri. This is Mohit's fifth film with the Bhatt Brothers. Incidentally, Kangna Ranaut plays a fashion model in RAAZ – THE MYSTERY CONTINUES after FASHION.

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Fashion Magazine Verve's collaboration with Dostana

These are really the days of collaborations. Latest one being the collaboration between fashion magazine Verve and this season's blockbuster, Dostana. Speaking exclusively to Bollywood Hungama, Parmesh Shahani, Editorial Director- Verve, said, "We wanted to be associated with the films that reflect the spirit of Verve. Not just that, the banner should be a prestigious one and that the placement of our esteemed brand should be with the flow of the film and not just as a mere prop. And Dostana is one such film which fitted our parameters to a 'T'.

The guys at Verve were so impressed with the way the film has shaped up that they have dedicated their November issue to the film and have also named the issue as 'Dostana Special'. Shahani finds immense pride in saying that "We are really very happy to be associated with Dostana, as 'Verve' is at the same wavelength as that of John, Abhishek and Priyanka." The cast of Dostana had even paid a visit to the Verve office to get references for the film.

With Dostana going great guns at the Box-Office, one thing is for sure that the Dostana-Verve association is just the tip of the iceberg!

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Bhatts strike again with the special look of Raaz - The Mystery Continues

Trust Bhatts to continue to be their innovative best when it comes to promoting their films. They may keep the budget on a low/medium end for principal shooting or star remunerations but when it comes to bringing the film to the audience, they have seldom back tracked on any front. Whether it is publicity campaign, song promos on satellite/web/radio medium, poster design or sheer quotable quotes centered on the film's theme, Vishesh Films has made sure that heads always turn when a movie coming from their stable is introduced to the audience.

If the poster design of their recent films like Jannat or Awarapan caught instant attention, one can't forget the romantic 'kiss under a shirt' frame of Aashiqui or 'Sanjay Dutt hanging on a cross' still from Sadak more than a decade and a half back. The trend of shock value continues, typically Bhatt ishtyle, as Raaz - The Mystery Continues' look is revealed. And this time around, Bhatts are on rampage as even before the beginning of the song promos, they are unleashing one poster after another, hence managing to build an intrigue that goes by the name of Raaz - The Mystery Continues.

So if the first ever look of the movie sported an all-new logo in a venomous neon green colour that was designed to distinguish it as an out-and-out horror film, another look showed a backless Kangna Ranaut with Raaz - The Mystery Continues written with blood on her back. Well, if the warning of 'This Winter...Fear Comes Homes' wasn't scary enough, what with Kangna's fingers turning into claws waiting to attack anything that comes her way, comes another poster which introduces Emraan Hashmi for the first time to the audience.

With Kangna's pretty, yet glum looking face (which adds on to the mystery), superimposed into the upper half of the body, Emraan is shown to be standing still in the ruins of what looks like Mukesh Mills reconstructed! What also strikes is the halo behind Emraan's head which seems to give an indication of the full moon night, hence hinting the arrival of the troubled souls.

Says a source attached to Vishesh Films, "With an international appeal to boost, the look of the poster has been kept neon green (yet again) to go with the mood, theme and spirit (pun intended) of the film. Also, with a new hairstyle, a French beard and eyes staring right from the poster, Emraan is made to look all intense with the sole aim of going any distance to solve the 'mystery' which continues from the days of Raaz!"

Director Mohit Suri has been known to explore various themes for each of his films. Zeher, Kalyug, Woh Lamhe and Awarapan are good examples to demonstrate the varied routes that the young film maker has attempted in each of his outings. Well, the way his initial campaign is anything to go by, Raaz - The Mystery Continues should be no different!

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B.O. update: 'Dostana' takes a head-start at plexes

Karan Johar's eagerly awaited DOSTANA opened to a heartening response at multiplexes across the country. The youth brigade turned up in full force for a Hindi film, after a gap. A similar trend was noticed during JAANE TU... YA JAANE NA, BACHNA AE HASEENO and ROCK ON!!. While the opening was 80% + at plexes, with night shows running to packed capacity, the response at single screens was dull at several places. The business was in the 40% - 60% range, at places even lower. However, at some single screens patronised by classes, it was at par with the multiplex business. That has been the trend with Karan's previous films like KAL HO NAA HO and KABHI ALVIDA NAA KEHNA as well. The revenue should be strong from multiplexes mainly.

DASVIDANIYA, starring Vinay Pathak, which also happens to be the actor's first film as a producer, had a dull start, but the reports are encouraging… DESHDROHI had a strong start in the Hindi belt.

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"I'm starting work from Nov 15" - Amitabh Bachchan

The Big B will be back to work finally from today (November 15). He resumes work after a much- needed break in Udaipur.

Confirming his return to the arclights, the Big B says, "I'm starting on the 15th with Leena Yadav's Teen Patti. There isn't much pending work there."

He was in Udaipur taking a break with his personal physician accompanying him. "I needed to get away from home. I needed time to myself, to read and write. And to watch the films that I've been meaning to for a long time. It was so peaceful out here. I should do this more often. But where is the time to take time off?"

They don't call him the Big B for nothing. Generous and considerate towards his fans and well-wishers to the point of self-destruction, the Big B is more than willing to meet the disappointed hordes who were turned away on his birthday after his sudden illness.

"My fans are never a burden. They are welcome any time. I publicly meet them every Sunday and specific ones get to meet me on my films' sets. No issues there."

The Big B regrets the fact that his illness took away his fans' excitement on his birthday. "However, health issues do not wait for an opportune moment. They happen. It is nature. It is biological. We do not have control over them. Yes, this one happened on my birthday. So what?"

He is supremely pleased to be home. "But I do regret not being able to meet the well-wishers who assemble to greet me. I am sure they have understood the gravity of the situation. There will be other moments to make up for the loss."

Family friends like Karan Johar and Sanjay Dutt who are abroad, kept calling to express their concern throughout the Big B's week-long hospitalization. And he was overwhelmed and embarrassed by the extra attention.

Commenting regretfully on the postponement of Abhishek and Aishwarya's schedule of Mani Ratnam's film, the Big B says, "They were to leave the next day but stayed back and rescheduled their programme because of my condition. I generally do not like the idea of attention and of disturbing others with my condition, but I shall respect their decision even if they disagree with me. Particularly so now."

The general opinion about Abhishek is that he's as good a son to his father as the Big B was to his. The Big B says with paternal pride. "I am grateful that others think so compassionately about Abhishek. My father is not alive to give an assessment of what he thought of me as a son. But I am. And I am happy and full of pride to have Abhishek as my devoted son."

Back to work, a small portion of Shootjit Sircar's film remains to be shot. "We needed to wait for a particular climate to shoot the remaining work. That is now ready and we shall be finishing the entire shoot soon. I'm also in the process of sorting out the dates for the film to be produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. Good to have so much variety thrown in my direction."

In the meanwhile, AB Corp Ltd is ready to resume operations. Big B isn't too pleased by the suggestion that his production company had slowed down. "I laugh at the constant refrain of 'AB. Corp resuming production'. Resuming? We have been in production all along. Yes, they may not have attracted attention .But we are there. I shall keep you abreast as time approaches on our projects."

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Exclusive: Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi Theatrical Trailer

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Exclusive: New Dance Pe Chance Trailer from Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi

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Press conference of Dostana

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Salman Khan promotes Yuvvraaj with the kids of 'Sukun Park'

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Shahrukh Khan at the Hyundai's 'Fastest 20 lakh cars rollout' celebrations

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Aamir ki Guzaarish

That he gets to know co-star Asin better before shooting a romantic song together

Aamir Khan had to shoot a romantic song with Asin for Ghajini. The two actors have never worked together before and Aamir realised that they needed to share a comfort factor before shooting for the love song.
Khan decided to get to know the South actress, to ensure there was no awkwardness between them.

Says a source close to Khan, "Aamir is an experienced actor and can switch on and off at will but he realised that Asin might not be ready to break into a romantic number at will. They needed to establish a rapport. Four days before shooting, were kept aside for Aamir to get to know his leading lady and put her at ease, so that the romantic song would look natural. Aamir and Asin would go for long walks in the desert. Nobody knew what they spoke about but one could see Asin gradually relaxing and becoming comfortable with Aamir. And that's the reason the blazing chemistry on screen."

Though Aamir and Asin had shot some scenes before, the song was the first romantic interaction.

The song was shot for in Namibia. Ahmed Khan has choreographed the Guzarish song while Manish Malhotra and Meghna Kapoor styled Asin. The source adds, "A charter aircraft comprising 23 people was taken to Namibia and the song was shot in 'dead man's land'. Sosusfei Lodge, where Aamir and the crew stayed is part of the dessert. The location was a two-and-a-half hour ride from the hotel. Aamir was very particular about his workouts as he had to shoot his bare-bodied sequences there especially for the song so a makeshift gym was created at the base camp of the shooting locations."
Ghajini director, AR Murugadoss, says, "We all landed in Namibia to shoot this song and this was the first romantic song between the two. Aamir is an experienced actor and he had genuinely liked Asin's performance in the Tamil version of the film. He praised her performance giving Asin a lot of confidence."

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Hrithik Roshan In Bora Bora

Bora Bora must be warm and breezy if Hrithik Roshan is lounging around in just a towel! The actor was recently on holiday at the exotic locale, and seems to be sporting a more rugged, messy look. Perhaps for wife, Sussanne Roshan? The water and waves looks great, but what about Hrithik? Tell us what you think!

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Shahrukh Khan Calls Himself the Oldest Employee of Hyundai in India

Economic car company, Hyundai, celebrated its two millionth car in India, brand ambassador Shahrukh Khan named himself the oldest employee of the company! Why? Well Shahrukh Khan has been associated with the company for over a decade, which is as long as the company has been rooted in India. The King Khan also went onto say he's proud to be associated with Hyundai as it helps achieve the aspirations of middle class citizens in India who aspire to own a car. He also mentioned how he always strives to represent the middle class... Sure SRK, if having a mansion worth millions of dollars, a home in Dubai and being one the highest paid actors in India represents the middle class, then we've just been schooled!

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Sanjay Dutt Launches Luxury Audi Model

Audi launched their brand new model the Audi R8 in New Delhi on Friday November 8th. it was a star-studded affair! Bollywood bad boy, Sanjay Dutt who has a passion for the luxury car drove up in it unveiling it to the audience. He wasn't the only star in attendance, Bollywood's resident 'yummy mummy', Malaika Arora Khan and singer Sophie Chaudhary were also there to witness the unveiling. The sports car is priced at 1.17 crore rupees, which is over $200,000 USD! Looks like owning a piece of this luxury comes with a hefty price tag!

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"The chemistry between Abhishek, John and Priyanka is fantastic" - Karan Johar

Karan Johar seems unperturbed by the scarcity of clothes and the profusion of gay jokes in Dostana. Defends Karan, "It's fun and new. We've made sure not to offend any group or community. I'd never make a film that would offend anybody. Dostana has a great look and it's a clean happy watch. The chemistry among Abhishek, John and Priyanka is fantastic. As for the gay jokes, I think it's time for everyone to wake up to social reality. I had gay jokes in Kal Ho Naa Ho. And no one was offended."

There are rumours of a further delay in starting My Name Is Khan because of Aditya Chopra's film Karan Johar retorts. "Far from it. Adi's film releases on December 12 and I start immediately after. Yes, I did delay a bit for him initially. But it was a very minor delay for a month. If he asked me, I'd delay my film a year for him. Not only that, Yash Raj Films distributes our films. So where's the question of competition between us?"

In fact Adi and Karan are supposed to be making Hindi versions of the same film, Arlington Road. Karan gets irritable, "Look, the film that Rensil D'Silva is directing for me and the one that Kabir Khan is doing for Adi both have terrorism at the background. So there would be similarities. Rensil's film and Kabir's film have terrorism as their base but different themes. Both Rensil and Kabir have worked hard on their scripts."

As for Karan's next directorial venture, he clears some misconceptions. "My Name Is Khan has nothing to do with terrorism. It has Shah Rukh and Kajol in the lead. More than anything else, it is an emotional drama. It's more about the absence of humanism than politics. I'm not fighting for any cause. But at the end of the day, cinema is a reflection of the times. In the 1970s and 80s, political upheaval was huge. In the new millennium, international terrorism is as huge a problem as global warming. But since global warming doesn't make dramatic viewing, the terrorist is definitely the antagonist of our times. I've seen A Wednesday which I absolutely loved. I'd love to meet and congratulate the director. In fact I wrote a whole blog about the film."

Any mention of the film being about the Islamic Identity now puts Karan on the defensive. "At its heart, My Name Is Khan is a love story. At its soul it makes a social statement and at its core it's a tale of the triumph of the human spirit. My writer Shibani Bathija and I come from the same emotional head-space. Anyway it's too early to talk about the film."

Shibani has just delivered a dud called Kidnap."I haven't seen Kidnap. I was down with a viral fever when it was released", Karan is quick to state. "So I can't comment on the film. But I can say My Name Is Khan is Shibani's baby all the way. She has given two years of her life to researching on Shah Rukh's character. I'd be just executing her vision. As for her work in other films, every creative person falters. You need to move on. Even I've made mistakes. But that doesn't stop me from taking risks. I think I took a big risk with Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna. I don't think any other director has made a Rs 50 crore film on infidelity."

Karan now recently returned from location-hunting in London and Los Angeles. Call him a seasoned traveler and he retorts, "I'm a traveler for all seasons. We're shooting My Name Is Khan in San Francisco and LA. With KANK and now My Name Is Khan, I want the bubble to burst about my bubblegum cinema."

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"Dostana is Tarun's baby all the way" - Priyanka Chopra

Priyanka Chopra admits that she hasn't rested for more than a year now. 2008 especially has been crazy with five releases already to her name and sixth round the corner in the form of Dostana. However, she doesn't mind all the excitement coming her way as she hardly has got time to mourn over the failure of her movies or revel in the success of Fashion. Joginder Tuteja catches up with Priyanka Chopra hours before her Dostana gets ready to hit the screens.

Love Story 2050, God Tussi Great Ho, Chamku, Drona, Fashion and now Dostana - Whew!
[Laughs] Ya, these are indeed exciting times. I could use so many adjectives to describe what I feel but well, in the end it's all so scary. There are so many expectations that one attaches to a project. It is like sitting in Board examinations month after month.

Dostana still sounds like a safe film after all. Promos give an impression that it is an out and out fun film.
There are a little bit of emotions attached to the film as well. At the end of the day it is mainstream cinema and it has to be interesting. Dostana is not a random candy floss entertainer. Since the film has been made for commercial audience, it has to tell an engaging story. Here things turn really different. That's because when I interact with the characters played by Abhi and John, it gives a different dimension to a man-woman relationship. It's really fun because I am there with these two guys who are supposed to be in a romcom relationship of their own!

A film with two men in a romcom affair? And you were still game for it?
I was sold the moment Tarun (Mansukhani) narrated the film to me. I didn't have any apprehensions because Tarun was so clear in admitting this very basic fact to the world on screen. He wanted to bring things out of closed doors and make the world know that this too is a part of society around us.

But wasn't there any apprehension about non-acceptance of the film? What if it doesn't turn out to be a hit? Also, Tarun is a first time director.
You can't pick a film thinking whether it would be a hit or not. How can you even do some calculations? Yes, you do assess the commercial viability of the subject but beyond that you have to leave it to the conviction of the director. And let me tell you that I wasn't even thinking about Tarun being a debutant director here. I have worked with quite a few since I made my debut and while some of them have made fantastic films, some haven't. But that can't deter me from saying no to someone just because he/she hasn't been entrusted with this responsibility before. Come on, someone gave me a first chance too!

Karan's association with the project would have reassuring enough though?
Having Karan around is great but Dostana is Tarun's baby all the way. It is written and directed by him and knows the subject inside out while Karan hardly came on the film's sets. Moreover, I myself come with so many questions while working on a film and sometimes it can become really testing times for the directors. Still, Tarun braved all of it and answered all my questions. That shows his understanding, commitment and conviction.

You earlier mentioned that Dostana has some emotional moments as well. The KJo effect?
I won't say that the film has trademark Karan Johar stamp of emotional moments in Dostana. But then yes, there are moments where you get a lump in your throat. There is some softness in heart that comes on and just like there are some ups and downs in every feel good entertainer, the same is the case with Dostana too.

Softer songs like 'Kuch Kum' and 'Khabar Nahi' do promise that, isn't it?
Yeah. In the narrative they really do well. I know that songs like 'Desi Girl', 'Maa Da Laadla' and 'Shut Up and Bounce' are a rage today but I know for sure that once the films release, others too would pick up well amongst the audience.

Coming to your much talked about look; there are talks about the hard work you put in shaping your body for Dostana.
[Smiles] It's great that after Fashion, my look is being noticed in Dostana as well. However, I know for myself that hard work was there in Drona or Love Story 2050 or for that matter even Don. It's just that currently we are talking only about Dostana or Fashion.

But your weight loss is quite apparent in Dostana?
It's my luck that I was working on both Fashion and Dostana together. For the early part of Fashion, I had to put some weight to depict the chubby look of a Chandigarh girl. Then for the Mumbai shoot of Fashion which showed my journey to the top as a supermodel, I had to loose weight. The look I acquired for Fashion also helped Dostana because I was training hard and was fast acquiring a well toned physique.

Last but not the least, one can't help but ask this question. How does Bobby Deol's character bring the twist in the plot of Dostana. And please don't say - 'Watch the film'!
[Giggles] Watch the film!

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Pictures of Sanjay Dutt and wifey Manyata holidaying in Bangkok

Ooops...they did it again...we are referring to people who have their eyes set celebrities all the time. That it makes an interesting read is another thing altogether. Sanjay Dutt and his dearest wifey Manyata Dutt is the latest celebrity couple whose pictures are being circulated on the internet.

The adjoining snaps show Sanju baba and Manyata beating away their 'blues'. The snaps were taken when Manyata had gone to visit Sanjay on in Bangkok, where he was shooting for his upcoming flick Blue. Rumors have it that Sanjay Dutt had hired a boat for a whopping amount and needless to say, the couple really had a whale of a time! When Manyata was asked about these snaps, she did not deny that the snaps were taken in Bangkok. She also added that she is aware that these snaps are being circulated on the internet under the title of 'Honeymoon Snaps'.

Sometimes we wonder about the price the celebrities have to pay for being famous! Maybe, that's why some philosopher had rightly described the term 'celebrity' as someone who slogs his life initially to become famous, and when he does, he wears goggles in order to avoid being recognized! What say, Sanju baba!

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Jaya loved Abhishek's gay turn

Karan Johar had a screening for the cast and crew of Tarun Mansukhani's Dostana at Yash Raj Studios on Tuesday night. The Bachchan family turned up in full force Amitabh, Jaya, Aishwarya, and Abhishek himself.

Also present were Bobby and Tania Deol, make-up guru, Mickey Contractor, Farah Khan and designers Aki Narula and Manish Malhotra. Though Ritiesh Deshmukh is not a part of the film he was invited as Karan's guest.
Abhishek Bachchan says, "Yes I saw Dostana on Tuesday night and loved it. My family loved it as well."

Even thought the film has her son playing a gay character, mom Jaya Bachchan apparently thoroughly enjoyed watching Dostana. Abhishek confirms, "Mom loved it! Her reaction was one thing we were all panicky about as mom doesn't like very many films and she's very straightforward about her reactions. Mom, dad and Aishwarya were laughing throughout they all adored the film!"

KJo held another trial last night for close friends like Shah Rukh and his other friends from the fraternity.

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John's the board, I'm the attitude!

AB Jr, on his role and his chemistry with his male co-star

Was it an oh-no or oh-yes when you first heard the story of Dostana?
Oh yes! The one-line of Dostana was told to me in early 2005. I have known Tarun since the last 13 years when he used to work in my mother's audio-visual company on a TV serial called Dekh Bhai Dekh. He'd narrated this one-line to me and it was an instant as I just felt it was a very funny film.

What's it about?
It's a very unique situation it's not everyday you get a film where the two male protagonists pretend to be homosexuals in order to get into a house and then both fall in love with her. So you have this whole comedy of errors.

John is hot bod, Priyanka is the glam doll so what are you in Dostana?
While shooting, I used to make fun saying John is the board and I am the attitude. My character is the fun-loving hyper one. It's Sameer's idea to pretend to be gay, to get an apartment. John really doesn't like it.

How much of Abhishek is in Sameer?
Actually, quite a lot! Because I think every actor brings a lot of himself to the film. Tarun knows me really well so he wrote a lot of the dialogue and the role keeping me in mind.

Tarun says there's more chemistry between John and you. Comment.
(Laughs) Yeah! Hands down! In fact, Priyanka would make fun of us saying we made her a junior artiste! John and I are good friends and that really translates on screen. We had decided that we had dive into this whole-heartedly. You can't be apprehensive about what you are doing or it shows. We both had a blast, and after seeing the film on Tuesday night I can say we are the top contenders for Jodi No 1 next year!

What's the one thing that you like and dislike about John?
What I like about John is the fact that he's a genuine good guy. Contrary to his physicality, which is really this big, well-built Bandra boy; at heart, he's actually a softie and a very sweet chap. What I don't like about him is he gets very persuasive when he wants you to go to the gym. John is like a boot camp sergeant when it came to that with a 'get in the gym' attitude. He's very strict and wouldn't allow me to eat stuff. I like working out but John really pushed me to get into the gym ruthless is the word (laughs)!

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Sallu bhai the prankster

When Salman and Katrina made an appearance on a TV show recently, the crew were surprised to see Salman Khan ragging Katrina by repeatedly asking her to say 'tagda' as she cannot pronounce many Hindi words (the language is still new to her).

Says a source close to Katrina, "Though Katrina's Hindi diction is improving, she sometimes still fumbles over some words. On the show Salman kept asking Katrina to repeat the word tagda. Even when the camera was turned off, he wouldn't let Katrina get up from her seat till she said it. Poor Katrina went red in the face in front of the crew and the live audience."

Katrina, who is currently shooting in Goa for Raj Kumar Santoshi's Ajab Prem Ki Gajab Kahani says, "Salman fools around with his friends and me 24 hours a day. As if he knows how to say 'tagda' himself properly!" she laughs.

"Even during the shooting of Yuvvraaj, Salman would play pranks on me. I would practise playing the cello and striking the chords in sync with a real orchestra and Salman thought I was taking too much interest in it.

Suddenly he would come up, grab the cello from me and make a big show of how to play it without having a clue about how to play! He clowned around while the musicians in the orchestra looked on in horror!"

Katrina plays a cello player in Yuvvraaj, while Salman is a background singer in the orchestra. The actress, who has paired up with Salman after a long break says, "What I like about Salman and my romance in Yuvvraaj is the fact that Subhashji (Ghai) didn't try and show fake romance but created real and spontaneous moments.

That will be the surprise element in the film."

When asked if she and Salman would feature again in Subhash Ghai's next film Katrina says, "I really don't know."

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The RAB NE BANA DI JODI theatrical promo!

Just last Saturday we had broken the news about the detailed theatrical promo of Shah Rukh Khan's Aditya Chopra directed RAB NE BANA DI JODI, being included in the reels of this Friday's Karan Johar project, the Abhishek, John and Priyanka starrer, DOSTANA. And here are the details about the teaser contents

The 2 minute promo commences with a glimpse of the Golden Temple at Amritsar, followed by Sikh religious chants, "Ek Onkaar, Satnam" and then we have the simpleton Shah Rukh Khan doing his daily chores and finally going to his office (Punjab State Electricity Board) and saying in his lovable style, "Punjab Power, lighting up your life, Surendra Sahni this side ji." The focus now shifts to Anushka as the infectious music of "Haule Haule" takes over and we see a nerdy SRK falling in love at first sight with the dialogue (in the background), "Kal maine usko pehli baar dekha, aur use dekhte hi love ho gaya!"

Later, the music turns groovy and the extremely rocking signature tune of the movie begins and the focus of attention is now the youngish, still handsome looking and confidence personified SRK (playing his iconic Raj character) in his blue jeans, red T–shirt, sun glasses and riding a Suzuki mobike. And then there are various scenes of interactions between him and Anushka, with glimpses of the song, "Phir Milenge Chalte Chalte", all in a beautiful, mind–blowing sequence, which leaves the viewer hungry for more.

However, the lines that catch the attention and leave an everlasting impression, are, "This December, You will laugh, You will dance, You will fall in love." Here is embedded the soul or spirit of the movie and we must add that the theatrical promo of RAB NE BANA DI JODI definitely rocks. Yash Raj Films have a winner on hand and it shows. The most important thing is that YRF have not tried to mislead the audience in any way. Their movie is a simple love story set up in a small town of Punjab (no Switzerland or NRI stuff here) and they have been true to the film with the promos and it will definitely help in getting RAB NE BANA DI JODI off to a stupendous start at the ticket window, when it releases globally on December 12.

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Abhi-Ash enjoying their break at Athirappilly waterfalls

Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan after completing their first production schedule for Mani Ratnam's RAVANA on location in the Malayatoor forest near Kochi, Kerala are currently enjoying their short break. And they will be back on the sets of RAVANA by 14th November.

The couple has been enjoying their well deserved break with a stay at a picturesque resort beside the famous Athirappilly waterfalls near Chalakudy town for the last two weeks. Last few weeks have been quiet hectic for the couple following Amitabh Bachchan's illness and subsequent hospitalization later followed by a long shoot in the grueling conditions in Kerala forests with no mobile connectivity & harsh climatic conditions. Finally, the couple managed to get some time off to relax and get back on the sets rejuvenated.

Also it is learnt that a tight security cordon has kept the press and the fans away from the film set, as Mani Ratnam reportedly does not want anyone to get a glimpse of the look of the film. However, it has been leaked that Aishwarya arrived on the sets dressed as a Tamil Brahmin.

The Mani Ratnam film is supposedly a modern day adaptation of 'Ramayan', and an intense love story focused on the Ram–Sita pair, played by Aishwarya Rai and Abhishek Bachchan in the Hindi version with south top star Vikram playing Ravana. But Vikram replaces Abhishek as Ram in the Tamil version. The Tamil version of the film is also going to be dubbed in Telugu.

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Ajay Devgan to direct Kajol again!

GOLMAAL RETURNS is Ajay Devgan's biggest grosser till date yet the calm, composed and cool super actor is his usual self. Though he is very happy with the overwhelming response to the film, he is very much focused on his next directorial venture after U ME AUR HUM.

Devgan clarifies that the film should have gone on the floors but it is taking longer than expected. Reason? Well, Ajay wants his film to be technically perfect and on par with international standards, and these things take time. Ajay confirms that his wife, Kajol will once again star in the film and that there wont be too many characters in the film (ala RNBDJ; SRK too says that there are not many characters in the film!).

Devgan is hopeful that he wont make the same mistake that he made with (his debut directorial film) U ME AUR HUM, that of trying to play it safe in the first half and says that he wont hold back on his instincts.

Here's wishing the best to Ajay for his next!

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Jaya, SRK, Saif, Kareena, Deepika, Rani, Imran watch 'Dostana'

Exactly two screenings of Karan Johar's keenly anticipated DOSTANA have been held so far. The first screening, held on Tuesday night at Yash Raj, was attended by the cast and crew of the film, besides the Chopras, who are close family friends of the Johars, besides being the global distributors of DOSTANA.

The second screening, held last night [Wednesday] at Yash Raj, was a truly hi-profile affair, what with Karan's closest friends being invited for the screening. Jaya Bachchan, SRK and wife Gauri with their kids, Saif and Kareena, Karisma Kapoor, Rani and her parents, Deepika Padukone, Susanne Roshan, Arjun Rampal with wife Mehr, Imran Khan and girlfriend Avantika, Kunal Kapoor, Kunal Kohli, Ritesh Sidhwani, Anil Thadani, Sajid Khan, Siddharth Raj Anand, Jugal Hansraj, Kangna Ranaut, Amrita Rao, Sanjay Kapoor and wife Maheep, Sonam Kapoor, Neelam, Chunkey Pandey and wife Bhavana, Koel Purie, Mushtaq Sheikh, Manish Malhotra, music composers Vishal and Shekhar, writer Shibani Bhatija were amongst those present at this exclusive screening.

The auditorium was resonating with laughter and claps all through the screening.

Priyanka Chopra walked to meet the guests after the screening got over. Karan and director Tarun Mansukhani were wonderful hosts, attending to every guest personally.

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Dostana - Movie Review

Recall the 'Kantaben' episode in Karan Johar's KAL HO NAA HO. The episode is alive even today, in skits, on stage, amongst friends. That was a mere trailer. Picture abhi baaki hain. DOSTANA takes 'Kantaben' episode to another level altogether.

DOSTANA is no BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN. It's not a serious take on homosexuality either. On the contrary, it's a madcap comedy where two straight men pretend to be gays. Although DOSTANA is a mainstream commercial film, it dares to push the envelope in its own way. It brings homosexuality out of the closet, gives it respect and dignity and doesn't treat gays as 'abnormal'.

Love triangle in Hindi movies often centre around two guys falling in love with the same girl, or two girls choosing to love the same guy. But DOSTANA is a first. It's the first Hindi film that, at the core, is a rectangle [three men loving the same woman], but two of them, guys in this case, pretend to be a couple.

Sure, DOSTANA has ample shock-value since what has been witnessed in its promos is barely a fraction of what you'd get to watch in the movie. But more than shock-value, the film offers loads of fun-n-laughter and dollops of entertainment in those 14 reels.

A word of appreciation! It requires courage to fund a project like DOSTANA. Karan Johar, the producer, deserves to be lauded for treading the untrodden path. It requires courage and conviction to swim against the tide in your directorial debut. Tarun Mansukhani, the debutante, deserves a few brownie points extra for not thinking straight. It requires courage for two A-list actors to go all out and risk their professional [and personal] lives. Abhishek and John deserve an ovation for not only agreeing to play these characters, but also infusing life in them, without making a mockery of the gay community.

To cut a long story short, DOSTANA is not to be missed. Dharma Productions, the late Yash Johar and Karan Johar's film production outfit, has produced several significant films in the past. Add DOSTANA to the list!

Miami is the setting for DOSTANA. When Sameer [Abhishek Bachchan] and Kunal [John Abraham] are turned down for an apartment because the landlady [Sushmita Mukherjee] doesn't want two strapping young men to corrupt her young sexy niece Neha [Priyanka Chopra], they hatch a plan: they pretend to be gay to secure the apartment.

Over a period of time, Sameer, Kunal and Neha become buddies. When Neha's boss Abhimanyu [Bobby Deol] enters the fray as the third contender for her affections, it gets even hotter…

DOSTANA shocks you all the while and that is its biggest USP. Don't expect stereotypical situations or characters all through this film. Watch Abhishek cook up a romantic story between John and him in Venice. Watch Boman Irani's interaction with Abhishek and John. Watch Kirron Kher's dramatic entry at this point. Howlarious scenes all, they're sure to bring the house down.

If the first hour is laced with crackling chemistry between the guys and terrific humour, things get serious towards the second half since there's one more person vying for Priyanka's attention -- Bobby Deol. There's humour in this hour too, but the focus is mainly on who'd get Priyanka in the end.

The length is a slight deterrent in the second half and the editor could've easily cut the unwanted flab to make the narration in shape. But the film works as a package! Also, the film has a shocking end and people are bound to raise eyebrows. It would have its share of advocates and adversaries. A debatable culmination, for sure!

Director Tarun Mansukhani is here to stay. He deserves kudos for choosing an offbeat story, then making a foolproof screenplay and most importantly, executing it with flourish. DOSTANA merges form and content beautifully, since the film is, technically speaking, sound. Ayananka Bose's cinematography is top notch. The locales of Miami are a feast for your eyes. Costumes and styling are very upmarket.

Vishal-Shekhar's music goes well with the mood of the film. It's young, peppy and energetic. 'Desi Girl' and 'Maa Da Laadla Bigad Gaya' are foot-tapping compositions. The latter is bound to be a rage!

Both Abhishek and John are fantabulous! Abhishek pulls out all the stops and delivers one of the finest performances of his career. His comic timing is superb! John will make guys and girls drool over his amazing physique. But, most importantly, people will sit up and notice how fine an actor John is. Both Abhishek and John compliment each other so well. In fact, had the chemistry and camaraderie been missing, the story would've failed to look convincing. Two thumbs up for these two guys!

Priyanka looks stunning and delivers a first-rate performance. First FASHION, now DOSTANA, Priyanka is back with a bang. Bobby Deol lends the required class to his role. No other actor would've looked so real while underplaying this character.

Boman Irani is sure to bring the house down, the auditorium is sure to resonate with laughter in his sequences. Kirron Kher is superb as the Punjabi mom. Watch her throw a fit when she learns that her son [Abhishek] is gay and much later, when she accepts John as family. She's remarkable! Sushmita Mukherjee, as Priyanka's aunt, is fantastic. She's so, so funny. Shilpa Shetty sizzles in the opening track.

On the whole, DOSTANA is a winner all the way. In terms of content, it might just prove to be a trendsetter. In terms of business, the film holds tremendous appeal for the youth. The 16 to 25 age-group would go into raptures and bonkers over this film. Its business at multiplexes mainly will be amazing. In Overseas too, the film should emerge amongst the biggest draws of 2008. DOSTANA rocks... have a blast!

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Wishing Juhi Chawla a Very Happy Birthday

She is the original 'bubbly' girl who can even give effervescence an inferiority complex, with her most endearing smile. She is none other than Juhi Chawla, today's Birthday Girl. This cutie made her dream debut with the smash hit Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak, and with this very film itself, she became the dream of every cinegoer! During her heydays, her mere name in the film was good (read 'best') enough for the theater owners to laugh all the way till the bank. Even though she has bid adieu to Bollywood (thanks to her marriage to the suave business magnate Jay Mehta), the cine goers just do not seem to be in a mood to see her off Bollywood! Maybe that explains the reasons why she was recently seen (in prominent roles as ever) in films like Bhootnath, Kismat Konnection, Krazzy 4 etc...

People...please join us and put your hands together as Bollywood Buzz wishes this once-in-a lifetime-Angel Juhi Chawla a very Happy Birthday, by posting your birthday wishes below

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Dharma Productions compensates PNC for a song used in Dostana

Just 3 days before the release of Dostana, its makers Dharma Productions received a little bit of a scare when PNC (Pritish Nandy Communications) filed a case against them for using one of their songs 'Kuch Kum' in Dostana.

Apparently, the story goes that, the song 'Kuch Kum' was originally composed by Vishal-Shekhar for a film which was to be directed by Tarun Mansukhani for the PNC banner. However, the film never took off and Tarun went on to direct Dharma Productions' Dostana.

When Pritish Nandy heard the song featured in Dostana, he was quite livid and raised an objection with the makers - Dharma Productions. However, rather than getting into unnecessary legal tangles, the parties decided to resolve the issue mutually in an out of the court settlement. Eventually, Dharma Productions compensated PNC by paying them Rs.3 crores for just that one song.

While Pritish Nandy must be a relieved man having got his due, the people at Dharma Productions must be surely pondering over this (suddenly turned) expensive song.

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Wishing Harman Baweja a Very Happy Birthday

How would you wish a man (read 'handsomely dashing dude') who has seen the future? Before you start rattling your futuristic minds, let us tell you the simple and the most apt way to wish is by saying 'Happy Birthday to you". We are indeed talking about the one and only Harman Baweja, the man who saw 'tomorrow', courtesy, Love Story 2050, for today is the day when the Superstar in the making was born!

If you thought that being the son of the famous Producer-Director Harry Baweja worked in his favour of Harman, then, think again, because, Harman has worked his way assisting the best of industry guys before saying 'Cheese' to the camera! Even though his debut film Love Story 2050 did not work at the Box-Office, it did the unveiling of a New Star on the horizon: Harman Baweja!

Bollywood Buzz takes immense pleasure in wishing this dude a Very happy Birthday. You too can him by simply posting your messages below

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Kareena a Fan of Saif's Ex-Wife

Kareena Kapoor may still have 3-4 years more to go before she walks down the aisle and says Kubool Hai to Saif, but she is trying her level best to fit in to Saif's family well in advance.

She has bonded well with the Pataudis, Saif's kids Sarah and Ibrahim also like her and guess who she is ready to break the ice with - Saif's ex-wife Amrita Singh.

In an interview she revealed, "I respect the fact that Saif was married before and has two lovely children. I have been a fan of Amrita Singh. I haven't met her ever but I know her through her films.

"For me, she'll always have a place of importance in his life because she is Saif Ali Khan's first wife and the mother of his children. And, I've told Saif this. I would want her to have that kind of respect always. This is what my parents have taught me.

"At the end of the day, it was just a marriage that didn't work out. I have always encouraged Saif to be friends with her because I think that would be great. I guess they will just need time but that's something that they would need to deal with. I will always respect her. As far as any other relationship of Saif is concerned, I don't think they really mattered."

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Sushmita To Play Benazir

Sushmita Sen has been recently offered the role of Pakistan's former lady Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto by two prominent Pakistani producers Zaid Aziz and Henna Rai.This film would be a bilingual film made in both English and Urdu and would be shot lavishly in Pakistan and England.

Apparently, Sushmita is working hard for her character. She is reading up extensively on the life of Benzir Bhutto and also working on her Urdu diction.

Sushmita earlier declared her love for historical character and period films.

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Priyanka's New Body

Former Miss World Priyanka Chopra, who floored the audiences with her dare-bare performance in Fashion is waiting anxiously for audiences reaction to Dostana, which is her next release.

The beauty has confessed working hard on her body for the film. She says: "For Fashion, I had to put on six kilos and later had to shed chip by chip as the character progressed in the film. My body structure in Dostana is more toned than in Fashion as it is a completely beach film. I've worked very hard on my body."

Since it's a complete beach film, we would find Priyanka Chopra dressed chic and minimal clothes apart from bikinis.

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SRK movie secret is out!

Aditya Chopra's well guarded secret - the story of his forthcoming film starring Shah Rukh Khan and newcomer Anushka Sharma - is finally out.

Shah Rukh Khan's different look, that of an ordinary boring government employee has evoked quite some curiosity from people and now that the story is out, all curiosity will fizz out.

A source at the Yash Raj Films revealed on the condition of anonymity that RNBDJ is a romantic tale of an older man Shah Rukh Khan his young teenage bride.

The source says: "There is a big age difference between them and they are not what you'd call a perfect couple. They are merely stretching their marriage with no real romance in between them. They are two very different people. There's a reality dance show called Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi - which is the main backdrop of the movie. The show is on the lines of popular television show, Nach Baliye."

The source continues, "Anushka wants to take part in the dance competition but she can't because her husband is an old and not hip and happening. She fears that if she dances with him, she will lose the show and become the laughing stock among all her friends, who are taking part in the same. Shah Rukh over hears his wife's problem and decides to go in for a makeover. He then watches some movies and changes his image completely and comes back to the show and woos Anushka off her feet. All the way through the dance competition, she keeps on falling in love with this new and improved Shah Rukh, without once realising that the man she is dancing with is her real husband."

However, Yash Raj Films have not commented on this news.

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Salman Finds Katrina's Duplicate

After finding a xerox-copy of ex-girlfriend Aishwarya Rai for his film Lucky, Salman Khan has done it again, this time he has found a ditto copy of his current flame Katrina Kaif.

Zarina Khan, was spotted by Salman Khan on the sets of Yuvraaj, where she is Katrina's body double. And after spotting her similarity with Katrina he has decided to cast her opposite himself in Veer.

A source reveals, "Zarina is slightly younger than Katrina, her age is 21. If one was to see Zarina from afar then you would not be able to make out who is who. Zarina's name will be changed before the film releases and she will be given a much more common Hindu name."

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Shahid played DJ and bartender at a party

The I-don't-like-to-party Shahid Kapoor is learning to unwind and enjoy himself.

Says a close friend of Shahid, "Last Saturday after his ad shoot in Goa for a luggage brand, Shahid hosted a surprise barbecue party on the lawns of his villa at the Taj Aguada. It was a party for close friends and acquaintances. Shahid, being a stickler for details, organised everything himself from the food to the wine."

Shahid admits, "Yes, I had a party for all my friends here in Goa. I just wanted to have a get-together. We all had a superb time! Now I am back in Mumbai and have started shooting for Vishal's (Bharadwaj) Kaminay."

A friend of the actor reveals details about the party, "There were hammocks and a huge bonfire. Though Shahid is strictly vegetarian, there were people in the party who weren't, so there were non-veg dishes on the menu as well. The food included barbecued and grilled paneer with a variety of sauces, grilled fish and chicken. There was even a bar set up and Shahid even played bartender. It was great to see Shahid in such a fun and totally chilled out mood."

The friend continues, "Shahid's party list included his trainer Abbas who travels with him everywhere, a few foreign models who feature in the ad, the ad crew, director Ken Ghosh, choreographer Ahmed Khan (with wife Saira), and some unit and cast members from Tips like producer Ramesh Taurani, Vatsal Sheth, and Sharman Joshi, who were shooting in Goa at the time, and a couple of Shahid's very close friends."

Says Shasha's friend, "As the DJ, Shahid played hip-hop tracks, his own hits, retro Hindi film songs, Justin Timberlake and songs from Amitabh Bachchan's films. Ken Ghosh challenged Shahid and Ahmed Khan to an impromptu dance contest. Shahid was voted the winner by the girls. Everyone had a blast and the party rocked till till 4 am. Every time the contestants would get tired they would do bench presses to get the adrenalin flowing."

Says Ken, "Yes Shahid held a very impromptu party. I had gone to Goa to discuss the dates for our shooting in December. It was a get-together for the unit of Kismet Connection (produced by Tips) old friends getting back together after the Toronto shoot last year. I wouldn't say Shahid won he was the mediator. As far as who's the winner well the jury's still out on the winner. We will have the best of 3 parties and decide!"

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Deepika sizzles in BILLOO BARBER!

Less than a year in Bollywood and with just two releases, one a blockbuster and the other a good hit, and projects with almost all the top stars coming up, what more could the hottest newcomer have asked for? So, let us end the suspense, we are obviously talking about Deepika Padukone and her two releases OM SHANTI OM with Shah Rukh Khan and BACHNA AE HASEENO with the teenage heartthrob, Ranbir Kapoor.
While her next release (in a double role) will be opposite Akshay Kumar in CHANDNI CHOWK TO CHINA, right now Deepika is grabbing the attention for her sizzling act in Shah Rukh Khan's BILLOO BARBER. All those who have been privileged enough to see her dance number have only good things to say about her. They just can't stop raving about her sensational dance sequence (choreographed by Farah Khan) and it is touted to be one of the highlights of the film.

Well, after her superb dance performances in OM SHANTI OM, there is no doubting the statements and we are definitely excited to see Deepika once again, but for that we will have to wait for February 13, as that is when the Priyadarshan directed film releases.

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Deepika Padukone features in the launch issue of Jade

To start with, lets us tell you that she is hot, so much so that people just pause when they look at her as they just can't get their eyes off her! She is none other than the Om Shanti Om girl, Deepika Padukone, who also happens to be the cover-girl of the newly launched magazine called 'Jade'! That she looks a million bucks on the cover will be an understatement. Instead let us tell you that the publishers of 'Jade' did not go wrong by choosing her to be the cover-girl of their launch issue! Poetically put, will launching a magazine be tough for a face that launched a thousand ships (read 'products')!

This issue has got the Padukone babe speaking all about her upbringing, her roots, her favourite food, places etc... She also explains as to why and how Mumbai is different from her hometown Bangalore! And even before you could ask for it, the 'Jade' guys did quiz her about Ranbir Kapoor, to which, the lady in red, replies, "Finding the right person makes a lot of difference. We don't need anyone else, we just love being with each other!"

Touche baby, now, we surely know that what it means to be Deepika Padukone, the name that will be echoing in every award ceremony this year! Till then, Happy Reading and happy Jade-ing'.

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'Ghajini' will cross 'Singh Is Kinng'

Aamir Khan's GHAJINI is expected to set a record of sorts. While the promotion of the film kick-started during Diwali, the Indian distributors, Studio 18, have decided to go that extra mile and ensure that the biggies rakes in big moolah when it opens during the Christmas week. While SINGH IS KINNG was released with 1,050 prints [physical and digital] in India, GHAJINI will have close to 1,200 prints in circulation in India alone.

"GHAJINI will be the biggest and widest release ever, breaking the record set by SINGH IS KINNG, which was also distributed by us," Aman Gill, Director, Domestic Theatrical Distribution, Studio 18 divulges. Adds Priti Shahani, Sr. V.P., Marketing & Distribution, Studio 18, "With SINGH IS KINNG, we set a precedent in the way the films are marketed and with GHAJINI we tend to go beyond that." GHAJINI is expected to fetch an earth-shattering start.

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I'm a schizo on the loose: Shah Rukh

It’s close to midnight at Mannat.

And Shah Rukh Khan, having put the kids to bed and packed off the last of his visitors, is in conversation with me over coffee and cigarettes. He’s most at home in low-slung jeans from under which his briefs boldly peep, a loose tee and sneakers. But then he is at home! And we are in his living room.

Gauri Khan’s living room, actually, whose size, furniture, colour, lights and other trappings are so amazingly spectacular, they take the breath away. Shah Rukh and the kids are not allowed to run wild in here. “But when Gauri’s not around, we do everything, we even let the dog pee,” he says, eyes crinkling in mischief and the mouth twisting in that famous lop-sided grin.

At this hour, he’s wide awake and sharp as a whip. Somewhere in the house, his trainer Prashant is asleep. When he feels like it, even if it is 2 am, Shah Rukh will wake him up and workout for 35 minutes. “I like to sweat,” he tells me. “I train non-stop, there’s no rest break, no music, this is not rocket science — I just do a circuit of exercises, then have a bath and eat some food.”

But we aren’t talking workouts, nor films, not even Salman Khan. We are talking about Shah Rukh himself. He surprises me by saying, “I’m a schizo on the loose. I’m two people, Shah Rukh 1 and 2. One works for the other. The guy I’m working for is hugely successful — but he’s not me. People say I play Shah Rukh Khan. My roles are a means to an end. Not true. My work defines me. But I have no identity of my own. My identity is that of my employer who is employed by the audience.”

This is the same actor, the story goes, who manipulates people and controls Bollywood. “Control is a strong word,” Shah Rukh protests, “I don’t have power, though I’m listed on the power list along with Mukeshbhai and Laxmi Mittal. Yet, because I’m a giver, I’m able to draw a lot of people on my side. Greatness and goodness lies in giving. I like to believe that a lot of people come on board because they want to do things for me. They’re givers, too. I don’t have to ask people to join me. So if I control Bollywood, it is by giving — not taking, nobody gives to a taker. I’m giving, these people are giving, somewhere there is a symbiotic relationship. But, I think, your idea of ‘control’ is me picking up the phone and saying, ‘Bhai, mera picture ka sab show full jana chahiye,’ right?”

I dodge the question by asking, at 43, how many years of good cinema he’s got left. Poker faced, he replies, “Eighty-seven! I believe that physically, emotionally, and cinematically I’m unbreakable. Time is a measure of frailty. And good cinema is like good thoughts... not bound by anything. Acting can’t be written about, talked, discussed, analysed, because 90 per cent of the words used to describe acting are expressionless. You’ve got to feel acting. That’s what I do. I’ve stopped giving time to myself. The last 20 years have been my best period. I run my own race. If you run long enough, you can beat the rest, because this race is of length... not time. I enjoy making films. But I’m not attached to their success or failure. In fact, I’m detached from my films. Once they’re made — I let go. Films are mini life. By Friday night, I’m already moving on. My directors get disturbed!”

He never even sees his own films, at least not with the thought of enjoying them, nor anybody else’s either... unless it’s important to them. Ditto the family. “Gauri and I have brought up our kids to think their Dad’s films are nothing special,” reveals Shah Rukh. “And that, in life, it’s not special to be special, but it’s special to be ordinary. My films are all about that. I show the inside of a good outside hero. You know, the Clark Kent behind Superman. If he were to fly and save the world would you think less of him because he isn’t cool and doesn’t wear tights? My life’s like that. I may live like a king, but I’m ordinary in my beliefs, I’m simple, ugly and boring... yet I’m happy to be me.”

And, why not, which ordinary man romances the sexiest heroines on screen? “So what,” Shah Rukh asks, “I love them all, I share close relationships with them, but I don’t kiss them on screen, and I don’t have sex with them off screen. I’m somewhat conventional. I don’t think sex outside is bad. But I have a beautiful wife at home. I think real men are those that respect women; those that make no external show of their manhood; those that are gentle and kind... it’s okay to be dandy and look pansy instead of trying to be macho; and, those that open doors for women. If you can be charming, laugh, and don’t let them feel all you want to do is get them in bed... the girls will love you. I’m a ladies man. I’m okay with talk of my being gay and bisexual. I’m man enough to be in touch with my sensitive side. I can be happy and still cry. I don’t need to prove I’m heterosexual. Except to my son... when I show him I still have the six-pack.”

He’s opening up now, but it’s late. He steps outdoors to see me off. “I go to the rooftop and pray to the stars,” he says, surprising me for the second time that night. “Two of the stars are my parents. But I pray for simple things. That my son does well in his tae-kwon-do championship. And that my daughter is happy with her painting. I tell my mom, ‘Where you’ve gone, you can put yourself to some good use.’ There has to be some kind of trade-off for the loss of my parents. But I also read the Quran, I pray in Arabic, English, Hindi hoping that God is multi-lingual and understands at least one of my prayers. Gauri recites the Gayatri Mantra. Our kids do both. This house is amazing. My daughter asks, ‘Are we Pathans or Punjabis?’ I confuse them by saying, ‘We are Christians!’’’

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I am a little unprofessional

Confession time for Salman Khan as he returns as a Yuvraaj with Subhash Ghai and Katrina Kaif…

Many headlines later, Salman Khan and girlfriend Katrina Kaif are now back together…in a film. After doing "Maine Pyaar Kyun Kiya" and "Partner" together, the two lovebirds parted ways professionally for a while and pursued films with other stars. Even as Salman romanced an assortment of actresses, Kat gave hit after hit with Akshay Kumar and others. With "Yuvraaj", they're returning as a couple on-screen.

Understandably, both Katrina and Salman are pretty excited with the project. "This is the third time I have worked with Katrina. We earlier did "Partner" and "Maine Pyaar Kyun Kiya", both of which were comedies but we weren't paired with each other. She was opposite Govinda and Sohail Khan. But in "Yuvraaj", she's been paired with me," says Salman.

The two had good fun working on the project, not only because of the rapport they share with each other but also with director Subhash Ghai and co-star Anil Kapoor. The promos look good, the posters are attention-grabbing and "Yuvraaj"'s music too is scintillating. In fact, lately, most of the films Salman has done have had hit music, whether they themselves were hits or not. What's Salman's newfound connection with music all about? "I don't know. I can't sing, nor can I dance too well. Guess I'm just lucky my films have good music," says the original muscleman of Bollywood.

His choice of music in his own time is retro, jazz, 60s ,70s and 80s rock and roll music and even soft rock. No time for Bollywood music, we guess.

More than working with Katrina, it's coming together again with Subhash Ghai that's made "Yuvraaj" special for Salman. Some years ago, the two had a spat that ended with the actor landing a slap on the producer-director's face. A lot of acrimony followed but the two have since kissed and made up. "I was a little nervous because this is the first time I am working with Subhash. I am a good worker but I am a little unprofessional," is Salman's surprise confession.

Now that they've called a truce, he's willing to do whatever Subhash tells him to. Including promoting reality shows. "Wherever Subhash tells me to go, I will." Though he will, Salman is not in favour of overdoing the promotion bit. "Audiences can tell in the first promo only whether the film is good or bad. I don't understand promoting a film so much. I feel it's overexposing the film," he says.

After "Yuvraaj", Salman has Veer coming up. The actor, who is also a painter, has turned a writer with this. Following in the footsteps of his scriptwriter daddy Salim, he's penned the story for "Veer". "Writing is in my genes. "Veer" revolves around a father and a son. It's about a son who is ready to give up his life to keep his father's words. But that's not too relevant in today's times so the story had to be set in the 18th century," he elaborates.

Parallels are being drawn between "Gladiator" and "Veer", but Salman denies it has anything to do with the Hollywood film. "It's an original script."

What is not always original is the role Salman plays regularly. Okay, so he's seen as a Bollywood brat. But why does he take up bratty roles on-screen too? "Because I can do only a few roles. I can do action, I can do romance, I can do comedy, I can do drama, I can do intense roles, I can play a guy who gets beaten up, I can beat people up. So, I am very limited with these concerns," is his simple reply.

One role that's suited him best is that of a He-Man. Lately, however, a number of actors, including Shah Rukh Khan and even chocolate boy Aamir Khan, are building up six-packs. Aamir is the latest entrant to the beefed-up bod club. What does the original six-pack king feel about that? "I liked Aamir's body. I liked his posters. He has worked out a lot and that's showing."

No jealousy here. But that's Salman for you. A simple man caught in a bad image.

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John Unplugged!

The actor speaks up about laughing through his first such role in a fun, non-offensive film

Three days to Dostana, John Abraham is chilling at his sea-facing home dressed in a white vest and blue jeans.

The buffed-up actor asks his Man Friday to serve us, "mere wali chai.' It arrives shortly, and it's light and sweet. Just like his upcoming release promises to be. Here, John talks about playing his first gay character, his gay friends and what his girlfriend Bipasha Basu thinks about him cosying up with another man. Read on...

How comfortable are you with your sexuality?
Very. Completely. Totally. I wear my sexuality like I wear my clothes.

So there was no hesitation when you were asked to play a gay character?
Not at all. See, when Tarun offered me the film, I actually fell off my seat laughing. At the end of it, I thought, 'If I am laughing, and enjoying it, then why shouldn't I do a role like this?" And I was very comfortable with the fact that Abhi- shek was opposite me. Because we get along very well and that comes across on the screen.

What if there had been another actor in place of Abhishek?
I would've done the film anyway but had there been any other actor, I don't know whether the chemistry between us would've been that good. Abhishek is probably the only actor in the industry who is taller than me. I am 6'1½ and he is 6"2.

Oh, so you have a taller girlfriend!
(Laughs) yes, I have a taller girlfriend in the film. Even though Abhishek insists that I am the girlfriend, and he's the guy in the film.

But you are dressed as a groom and he as the bride in the promos.
It's good thing that people are seeing those promos now! In the initial promos, people saw me pointing to Abhishek and saying, "ye mera boyfriend hai."

If not Abhishek, which actor do you see pulling off this role opposite you?
I think anybody in that age bracket. Abhishek, Hrithik and me are classmates since junior kindergarten, so if I had to think of anybody in this role, it would have to be anyone of them. Hrithik would've looked very pretty. But honestly I think Abhishek comes off best in this part because he's the rough, alpha male.

A rough Alpha Male to play the effeminate part is a odd choice, no?
Trust me, he is right for the part. Because we have played gay, straight. There have been films which have had gay characters in the past but they've shown the characters in a very caricaturish way. Except for one portion in the film, we haven't done that in Dostana. And the credit goes to Tarun because he has made sure that we are making a fun film, which is non-offensive. And we've stuck to that.

How do you think the gay community will react to Dostana?
I think, very positively. Actually they will react like the rest of the audience. And that would be that they'd laugh when they watch the film. Like Venky, my make-up guy, who's gay, was on the sets throughout the shooting and he'd be laughing hard. So if he reacted like that, I don't foresee any problem.

In Dostana, you are a straight guy pretending to be gay, would you play a gay character like Brokeback Mountain?
I'd love to do a role where I can actually play gay. But not because of Brokeback Mountain. There's a Sean Penn film called Milk. It's based on a true story, and Sean Penn plays a gay activist. I would love to play a role like that for a cause.

How about taking up Section 377 for a cause? it says it's crime to be gay.
I don't think it's a crime to be gay. I think it is ridiculous to even say that. We call ourselves citizens and not inhabitants, and we can choose what we want. And it's completely fair that we chose whoever we want for our partners, irrespective of their sex. These laws have been made in ancient times and should be changed.

Playing a gay role, sometimes includes doing an intimate scene with another male actor, would that stop you from accepting the film?
If you ask me, between playing a gay character like Sean Penn or a Brokeback Mountain, I'd choose the former.

Fair enough, I don't see any top B-Town actor who would do a role like that.
I don't have any reservations. I was asked if I'd go nude for a role. And I said, 'definitely.' .

But you draw the line at kissing a guy?
That would be the case with any straight guy. But I would definitely think about it. If the script was awesome, I don't think I would have a problem with it.

Would Bipasha?
Yes. I think she would run away from me. (laughs)

But she was okay with your Dostana role?
She's seen bits of the film and and really enjoyed it. And I was like, 'ok, that's a compliment.' Bipasha is always hundred per cent right on her gut. Whenever she has seen any of my film and said, 'It will work', it has. And when she has said, 'This is not going to work,' it hasn't. Dostana is a fun film, and comedy is working right now, so I am sure it will work.

Five physical attributes every guy should have?
The biggest physical attribute a guy can have, according to me (which I think is metaphysical), is intelligence. Then you need to well-packaged. It's not just about the way you look. Its about the way you dress, speak and the way you conduct yourself. Also, you need to come across as very honest. Your eyes should convey what you say and feel. And finally, a great smile.

What about one's body?
I think that should be a way of life. The fitness industry is a sunrise industry. That has to go with your being. The thought shouldn't be like, 'I have decided to go to the gym today,' it should be like, 'I have decided not to go to the gym today.' It's good to see most actors getting fit.

How hard did you work to bulk up for Dostana?
I did an-hour-and-a-half of intense training everyday. In Miami, I was doing two-and-half hours a day, seven days a week. And all that work for two shots of me getting out of the water.

Any awkward moments during shooting?
(smiles) Only when I had to stay away from Abhishek, because in the entire film, there are only two shots when we are not together. But to be honest, Abhishek made sure that things were not awkward. I give him complete credit to him for letting himself go.

You have gay friends. Are you comfortable being seen in their company?
Totally. I am a very open person. I am very clear. My friends are my friends and it really doesn't matter if they are gay. I think my closest gay friend is Venky, and I am very comfortable in his company. He is with me 24/7. I trust him completely. He's comfortable around me and I think that's special.

What's the raunchiest pass a man has made?
Yesterday it was, "Bite your bum" (laughs) but one that comes to mind instantly pass was when I was in London this time... (hesitates)

C'mon tell, tell!
I am so used to be followed into and out of the loo when I am abroad that it's getting stressful now. The last time a guy followed me into the men's room, he said to me, 'you are beautiful' and I found that very strange because suddenly my body started cringing. I shouldn't be talking about this. It seems narcissistic. It's embarrassing..

Is it a bigger compliment when a guy makes a pass, or a woman?
In terms of compliment, I think it's the same. But obviously, I like the fact that a woman is making a pass at me. I am very clear about that. But I am very embarrassed about compliments. I don't know how to accept it. I get awkward.

Your thoughts on gay marriage?
I know Bush wanted it to be illegal. If you choose to stay with your partner, be it a man or a woman, and if you wish to solemnise that bond, as an individual, I don't have a problem with it.

Finally, what does Bromance mean to you?
Bromance is Dostana to me. It's bonding between two friends. It's what Abhishek and I share. It has nothing sexual to it. Just clean friendship.

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Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi's theatrical promo to hit theatres on November 14

The much awaited theatrical promo of Aditya Chopra's Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi will be unveiled in theatres worldwide this Friday (November 14). This promo of Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi is being released with Dostana which is also being distributed by Yash Raj Films. So if you have seen ' Haule Haule', the first musical promo of the film, and want to know what the film is all about, then get ready to check out the film's theatrical promo.

Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi stars Shah Rukh Khan and debutante Anushka Sharma, and is written and directed by Aditya Chopra. The music of the film is by Salim-Sulaiman and the lyrics are by Jaideep Sahni.

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First song promo of Chandni Chowk To China to be unveiled on Nov 23

After the roaring success of Singh Is Kinng, Akshay Kumar fans are eagerly awaiting the release of the superstar's next flick, Chandni Chowk To China. While the film was initially supposed to release sometime at the end of this year, it got pushed due to certain reasons and is now scheduled to release on Jan 16, 2009.

However, the good news is that the song promo of the film will be out on 23rd of this month. The promo features the title track of the film and is indeed something worth waiting for. Chandni Chowk To China starring Akshay Kumar along with Deepika Padukone is directed by Nikhil Advani and compared to his earlier flicks like Kal Ho Naa Ho and Salaam-e-Ishq, Chandni Chowk To China is much shorter in duration with only 2 hours and 20 mins of running time. Also, this is the first time that Nikhil will be making action comedy unlike his earlier two movies which were romantic.

In keeping up with our trend of bringing you the best and latest happenings from the world of Bollywood, we at Bollywood Buzz would give you an exclusive peek at the promo of Chandni Chowk To China before it officially hits the airwaves on 23rd of Nov. So all you Akki fans, gear up as the countdown has just begun!

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Shilpa injured, but not out of action

Shilpa Shetty’s got a wrist in plaster. She was rendered hors de combat while practising cartwheels for the new action film she is planning to produce that has been written by Mushtaq Sheikh.

“Either that, or I’ve torn a ligament because of the wear and tear of weight training,” rued the actress with the hour-glass figure. She’s been told to take it easy at least for three months. “So I can’t shoot for the film,” added Shilpa, regretting that her ambitious multi-starrer has to be on hold. But, undaunted, Shilpa has picked up all the scripts at hand and is reading them so that she can start working.

“It will have to be a script which is not complicated, less painful and not a multi-starrer,” admitted the actress.

As a first time producer, she realises a multi-starrer might not be the best way to go. “I wouldn’t get dates from the actors. It’s quite a difficult task. I kept other projects on hold because of my film. I realised that I had turned more of a producer and less of an actress. So now I’m going to turn that around and complete the films I’ve signed,” said Shilpa.

Looking at the bright side, she agreed that it was good thing that her mega budget film was hold during this period of recession. “Due to the global meltdown, the financiers want to cut down on costs which is not possible,” said the actress.

So, what does Shilpa Shetty intend to do now? “I’ll wear a long-sleeved dress to camouflage the plaster on my wrist while doing Big Boss for Colours. And a fat kada when shooting for Sunny Deol’s The Man,” said the actress, making light of her problems.

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Mujhse Shaadi karogi, Bips

That's what a cop from Srinagar asked Bipasha Basu

Bipasha Basu is in Kashmir shooting for Rahul Dholakia's Lamhaa but huge crowds and marriage proposals are getting in the way of her work.

A unit member from Lamhaa says, "Bipasha is one of the biggest crowd pullers we've ever seen. She's been shooting in strife-torn Srinagar for the last two weeks and wherever she goes sex appeal draws huge crowds."

Local cops and BASF personnel are providing security for the shoot, and accompany the actress and the crew everywhere. On one such occasion, one of the cops covering the shoot got so smitten by Bip's persona that he walked up to her and proposed in front of the cast and crew!"

The source adds that Bipasha was stunned. "Initially, she was flustered. Though Bipasha is used to men getting over-enthusiastic around her; normally, boyfriend John Abraham is around to handle awkward situations. This time, Bipasha had to deal with it herself. After her initial hesitation, she turned to him and politely but very firmly turned down his proposal. She told the guy that John was in her life and they both loved each other very much." The guy stood there bemused till the unit's security staff took him away.

Bipasha, who is still shooting in Srinagar, says, "The proposal is something silly. I don't really want to talk about it. I am here to work and not to get marriage proposals from cops. I wish they understood that."

Bipasha, who plays a Kashmiri girl in Lamhaa, adds, "Things are still not normal here. The Kash-miris are very sensitive and simple people and I think, because of the state of affairs for years, they take time to trust people. So we have a few problems when we go to shoot but hopefully after Wednesday's press conference, we will get their support and help during the shoot. The film is very real and my director is passionate."

Bipasha had last visited Kashmir when she was six years old but she's enjoying herself all over again. "I'm happy to be here even though it's a very sensitive area because it's such a beautiful place. But you see cops everywhere. Being an actor, it's not easy for me to go anywhere without security but that happens in all cities and Srinagar is not any different. I would like to feel it's normal."

Bipasha has a wish for the people of Kashmir. She says, "I wish them peace and prosperity that they deserve. I hope we can film here peacefully."

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RAB NE BANA DI JODI with DOSTANA

The children's day release, Karan Johar's Tarun Mansukhani directed DOSTANA is tipped to take a breathtaking start at the ticket window. And for that the makers of the Abhishek, Priyanka, John Abraham and Bobby Deol (special appearance) starrer have to thank some superb promos, popular music and intelligent tie–ups.

Well, apart from the hot hunks, the DHOOM duo Abhishek Bachchan and John Abraham and the sizzling Priyanka Chopra, there is another very interesting and exciting reason to check out DOSTANA! The smoking hot film is carrying in its prints the detailed theatrical promo of one of the most awaited movies of the year, the Aditya Chopra directed Shah Rukh Khan starrer, RAB NE BANA DI JODI. Initially the promo was planned with Yash Raj's very own ROADSIDE ROMEO, but the decision was postponed and naturally, Aditya and Shah Rukh's good friend, Karan Johar's DOSTANA is now the chosen one!

With the music of RAB NE BANA DI JODI already creating a buzz, the film is all set to release to a great response on December 12th.

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Preity Zinta modelled her character in Heroes on her mother

Even as Preity Zinta's character in Samir Karnik's Heroes garners rave reviews it comes as a surprise to know that the role of the brave and dignified war widow is modelled on Preity's mother, Neelu Zinta.

Not only that, once Preity signed on, she worked for days on her character, language and body language with her director Karnik.

Says Preity, "The minute I read the script I knew I wanted to do it. You've no idea how many people discouraged me from doing Heroes. 'Arrey why do you want to play the mother of a growing child?; Tujhko log buddhi kahenge''. But I was adamant. I fell in love with my character. She reminded me of my mother. So many people have told me I look like her, especially in my shaadi ka joda.''

In Heroes, Preity plays a rustic Punjabi woman thrown into a crisis. ''It was easy for me to identify with the Punjabi woman in Heroes whose husband has died in the war. I come from an army background and I know what it is like to lose someone at the battlefront."

Preity unabashedly modelled the war widow's role in Heroes on her own mother. ''I always thought I looked like my father. But as I grow older, I think I've begun to resemble my mom. The other Punjabi woman I play in Heaven On Earth was much harder to play. I had no reference points except my director who held my hand as I suffered with my character for all the physical abuse she has to face."

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Aamir Khan's innovative way to interact with the media for Ghajini

Be it 30 secs commercial or a 3 hour long film, when Aamir Khan does it, he does it differently. This superstar deserves accolades for not just being a talented actor but also a very intelligent marketing personnel when it comes to promoting his films. Just last year we saw how Aamir grabbed everyone's attention with his directorial venture Taare Zameen Par, which had a young kid (Darsheel Safary) as the lead actor and a subject which was never dealt before in Bollywood. Yes, the film did star Aamir but it was also his smart marketing plan that managed to get the film, the great opening and rest is history. Ditto for one of this year's biggest hits Jaane Tu... Ya Jaane Na, which had a complete new cast and crew, but the film created new records and thus made Imran Khan an over night star. One can't deny that the aggressive marketing done by Aamir did the trick.

And now, for his next film, Ghajini, Aamir has (yet again) devised a very smart and creative plan to interact with the media. As we know by now, Aamir has been enjoying blogging on his personal website and has been keeping his fans updated on every new development on his film projects. But now, the 'perfectionist' Khan will be creatively using the internet medium to interact with the media persons. 'Creatively' because the interaction will be based on the theme of Ghajini.

It goes like this. Every media person will be asked to upload their photograph on the website www.rememberghajini.com/media especially designed for Aamir to readily access their photograph. This will help Aamir recall everything about the journalist in a jiffy including their name and other details. Aamir will also write down a personal note that will be part of the journalists' profile. According to Aamir, this would be an interesting exercise since it goes with the theme of my film, Ghajini.

More importantly, even though one has over a period of time, interacted with several media persons, one hardly gets to share anything that is even remotely personal. However, Aamir's new website will do exactly that- establish a personal connect between the actor and journalists. Today (November 8), Aamir will access the website created for this purpose and will be making special notes for all the media persons after going through all the photographs. Aamir's personal note on the photographs will be based on one lasting memory that the actor has of that particular journalist. Along with the personal note, Aamir will also present an information kit of, Ghajini, to each journalist who registers on the website www.rememberghajini.com/media.

Now it can be understood that the idea for this innovative concept comes from Aamir's character in Ghajini, who suffers from a short term memory loss. Must say, Aamir's unique way of media interaction has surely impressed us.

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Preity Zinta Gets A Slap

Preity Zinta got a nice resonant tight slap by her co-star while she was shooting for her film ‘Heaven On Earth' and she said its the most humiliating experience of her life.

"When we were shooting the film, there was a scene where my co-star had to slap me and, of course, it was a mistake as he took one step forward and actually went smack across my face. It was the most humiliating experience of my life because everyone saw me getting slapped," Preity told IANS.

But this mishap, Preity says, has brought her closer to her role in the film, that bagged her the prestigious Silver Hugo Award for best actress in the Feature Film Competition section at the 44th Chicago International Film Festival.

"It changed my whole perception towards my role and I realised that it's so terrible to strip a woman of her spirit. It's better to die than to let your spirit die. This film took me to another zone; it just shattered me because I am someone who would immediately stand up for myself," she said.

Guess that slap was lucky for Preity because it not just improved her performance but also got her an International Award.

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SRK Wants To Make Ordinary Special

Shahrukh's upcoming film Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi's teasers are out and show him playing a regular man in loose formals and rimmed spectacles.

Khan revealed at a recent press conference, "I want to play the exact opposite of Raj and Rahul, the romantic hero that I have played all these days. I want to show that it is special to be ordinary, which is why I am doing this film."

"I want everyone who watches the film to realize that the person they love is the best romantic hero there could be."

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Bond actor wants to star in Indian films

Indian film industry is the largest film industry in the world that churns out over a 1000 films annually. And guess who is really interested in working in Bollywood or Hindi films - the new Bond Daniel Craig.

"I am open to offers from India but unfortunately till now nothing has been put across me by the film fraternity of India... Till now I haven't been fortunate enough to get hold of an Indian movie. But yes, I will be very honored and excited to work with an Indian actor or actress on any given chance. I also feel very obliged for the immense popularity which I enjoy in this part of the world," said Craig.

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