REVIEW: Salman's VEER

Salman Khan in a period film?!! I won't deny I was a bit apprehensive about how Veer would turn up to be. Yes, from the look and feel it did look like a period film, but fifteen minutes into the film, I was pleasantly surprised to find myself enjoying the plot as we saw cannons roar, swords clash and men on galloping horses slaying one another on the battlefield.

Set in the times when the British were colonising India, Veer is a tale of bravery, treachery and love rolled into one. As the British enslave India with their shrewd 'Divide and Rule' policy, kings and nawabs fall to their guile and entrust their kingdom to them, one of them being Jackie Shroff, the Raja of Madhavgarh. He cheats the Pindaris, a fighter tribe from Rajputana, to please the British and loses his right hand to Prithvi Singh (Mithun Chakraborty).

Prithvi, one of the proud heads of the Pindaris, swears to return and kill every white man and the Raja to avenge the deception that cost his tribe, their land and their reputation. The vile Raja of Madhavpur too harbours a similar intention behind his cool demeanour. But as fate would have it, little did he realise that one day his daughter Jashodhara (Zarine Khan) would fall in love with the bravest of them all, Veer.

Now Veer not only takes on the British rulers, he also has to fight the cunning Raja of Madhavgarh. But then he has fallen head-over-heels in love Jasho and has killed her brother (Puru Raj Kumar) too. Will he succeed or won't he is for you to figure out.

Salman seemed to be back in form. He has lost more weight this time and looked better than in Wanted. It felt good to see him dancing gracefully and emoting right at the same time, maybe because Salman himself has invested a lot in terms of story as well.

The discussion would be incomplete if we don't talk about his action sequences and his dialogues. As in Wanted, here too he has a few punch lines kept aside for his fans. Sample this: Ek bar leta hoon toh paanch ser gosht le ke hi chhodta hoon. If this was not all he goes on to prove it by actually killing a rebel Pindari with his bare hands by scooping out his flesh. And guess what he comes up with? 'Tol lena, paanch ser se zyada hi hoga." Woof!!

(Buzz18)

Good vibes, no affair with Farhan: Deepika

Deepika Padukone has broken her silence. After months of speculation over whether she was seeing her Karthik Calling Karthik co-star Farhan Akhtar, Deepika has made her stand clear. PHOTOS

"Just because you see two people on screen have good chemistry doesn't mean there is something on," she says.

At the film's music launch, a cool-looking Deepika seemed to be comfortable with her surroundings in the presence of Farhan. Clearly, the talk of a hush-hush affair between the two is yet to affect their friendship.

"I am not going to comment on it as it's the most ridiculous thing I have heard," says Deepika.
But just when you think she's gotten over boyfriend Ranbir Kapoor and is moving on in life, Deepika leaves the floor open for a second round, asking: "Who said I am single?"

Asked if she was single and happy these days, Deepika smiles and says: "Yes I am happy."
Now that's what you call taking a rumour and turning it on its head.

(India Today)

SRK tweets for women hockey players

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan who essayed the role of a coach of women's hockey team in Chak De India, has taken up the cause once again.

The actor, who is a recent joinee on the social networking site Twitter writes "Thought Chak De will be good for revival of hockey. Reading the plight of women's team, should think on ways of survival of hockey. All of us."

The women's hockey team, who was upset that Shah Rukh Khan has not tweeted about the recent developments, has followed in the footsteps of their men counterpart. The men's hockey team successfully launched an open revolt last week and did not return to practice at a World Cup camp till they got their incentive cheques.

Though the women players have not boycotted the camp like the men did, but they sported black arm-bands during in practice as a mark of protest. The team had supported the men in their protest wholeheartedly, but was told that there was no money to clear the dues of its members.

Earlier this month SRK had tweeted for the Hockey players and said he felt awful.
Khan, widely praised for bringing the pathetic state of Indian hockey into limelight with his portrayal of a disgraced player who goes on to become a celebrated coach in the 2007 blockbuster Chak De India, had supported the revolting players.

(NDTV)

Aamir Khan signs mega endorsement with Etisalat

Aamir Khan is on a roll. After the runaway success of 3 Idiots, news is out that Bollywood superstar has signed up as the brand ambassador of UAE's Etisalat, India's latest telecom entrant.

The deal was reportedly inked before the release of 3i at Rs 30-35 crore for a period of 3 years. Etisalat will follow Aamir's other endorsements - Coca Cola, Tata Sky and Samsung.

Etisalat has been the telecommunications service provider in the UAE since 1976, while Etisalat DB Telecom India, previously called Swan Telecom, is a new telco set up jointly by Etisalat and DB Realty, headquartered at Mumbai.

(IE)

Are you dating Katrina? Yes!

Salman Khan makes a candid confession to Koel Purie on her couch

Salman Khan is an expert at evading personal questions, especially when the topic is Katrina Kaif or Aishwarya Rai. However, on Koel Purie's chat show, the actor was in a care-a-damn mood and admitted on record that he was dating Katrina. Khan touched on every topic from his fight with Shah Rukh, his equation with ex-girlfriend Aishwarya Rai and his relationship with Katrina Kaif.

A source from the show reveals, "Salman wasn't ready for the interview, but Koel grilled him on his set at Mehboob Studio. She asked him all sorts of questions, some of which were controversial. But Salman answered each and every one of them in monosyllables."

When asked point-blank if he was dating Katrina, Sallu replied with a loud 'Yes!' However, when the topic veered to his ex-girlfriend Ash, he wasn't very comfortable. "Salman was asked if he would ever work with her, and he replied with a No! It was evident he didn't want to revisit that chapter of his life."

Apart from Ash and Kat, Sallu also spoke about his war with SRK. "He said that their lives were going in opposite directions and that they would never be friends again."

Here's a transcript of the chat which airs on Saturday on Headlines Today at 7 pm and Sunday at 1 pm

In this episode, On The Couch launched a new section called Couch Connect, where members of the public can ask the celeb whatever they wish and the celeb responds.

Public: Will we ever see you and SRK in a movie?
Salman: "It's not that we are husband and wife, you know... I'm not married to him. He's an actor, I'm an actor, if there's a film on the level of Karan and Arjun - definitely.
Koel: Recently you were both seen at Aamir's premiere together. Was it awkward ?
Salman: No, not awkward. Maybe for him, not for me.
Koel: SRK says you are two parallel people running at different speeds (that's why the two will never meet). Do you buy into that?
Salman: No. We're two different people, running in two different directions altogether.
Public: When can I expect another film pairing Ash and you, like the hit Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam?
Salman: I don't think ever
Public: Who do you prefer: Katrina or Ash?
Salman: Definitely Katrina. Ash is married to Abhishek Bachchan, she's very happy and I... definitely Katrina.
Koel: Firstly, are you still with Kat?
Salman: Ya ya... ya ya.
Public: Are you still in love with Ash?
Salman: No, buddy.
Public: Who's the greatest Khan?
Salman: Yusuf Khan.

(Mid Day)

Jab Ranbir's ex-flame Deepika Padukone met Katrina Kaif!

Mumbai: It was a clash of titans when Ranbir Kapoor’s ex-flame Deepika Padukone and his current love interest Katrina Kaif bumped into each other accidentally.

News has it that both the stars met each other at a shoot and exchanged cold vibes before Katrina walked out, skipping some real action had the beauty prolonged her stay at the venue.

Talking to a news daily about Deepika’s magazine photo shoot at the Mehboob Studio, an eyewitness said “Deepika had come with Farhan Akhtar for her photo shoot. Somewhere around late afternoon, Deepika was giving her solo shots in the garden area of the studio. While Deepika was doing her last minute touch-up, there was pin drop silence and all eyes swivelled to the entrance. It was Katrina Kaif, who had accidentally walked in, thinking it was the venue where she was called for her shoot.”

“Dressed in a short white skirt and a pink tee, Katrina walked in and froze for a second. Deepika, who was standing some distance away, saw her. Both had a few seconds of eye contact, and Katrina immediately took a U-turn and walked away,” said the eyewitness.

Meanwhile, a close source maintained, “Although Ranbir and Deepika are not seeing each other any more, the latter still has issues with Katrina. It was the growing friendship between Katrina and Ranbir which marked an end to her relationship.”

Incidentally, both Katrina and Deepika were unavailable for any comments. Well, sometimes silence speaks!

(Spicezee)

Asin describes the Khans as focused, cool and charming

She has worked with two of them and is looking forward to work with the third, but actress Asin Thottumkal has already formed an impression about the three Khans in Bollywood.

The Southern beauty started her career in Hindi film industry with Aamir Khan starrer blockbuster 'Ghajini' in 2008 and went on to work with Salman Khan in her second film 'London Dreams Last year.

When asked to pick out adjectives to describe the three Khans, Asin said, "Aamir is very focused, Salman has a cool attitude and Shah Rukh, from what I have seen of him, seems to be very charming."

The 24-year-old actress was in the capital recently to announce the 55th Filmfare Awards to be held on February 27 this year.Asin has already bagged three filmfare awards - the first one in 2003 for being the Best Telugu Actress, second was the South Filmfare Best Actress Award for her performance in Tamil film, 'Ghajini' and the Filmfare Best Female Debut Award for the Hindi remake of the film.

"I hope to be nominated this year too, but my favourite film for this year's awards would be '3 Idiots'," said Asin, adding that the film was an "obvious choice" since it has been appreciated by all.Even though she stepped into the film industry as a teenager, Asin, who hails from Kerala, never dreamt of becoming an actress in her childhood.

"It might sound like a cliche, but becoming an actress was never my ambition. I would have probably gone into academics like my parents. I am the black sheep in my family as no one else has any connection with films," said Asin.

Having said that, the Southern beauty, who has been a prominent face in Tamil and Telegu films for years now, does not regret her choice."Back then, I was too young to think about what I was doing, but now, I am happy with my profession," she said.

Asin has been often compared to another Southern beauty who has made it big in Bollywood, Sreedevi. When asked about the comparison, the actress said, "She is a great actress and is very close to me as we are neighbours. But I would like to make a name and place for myself in films."The actress might be a newcomer in Bollywood, but is not jumping at every offer and taking it slow and steady in terms of film projects.

"I'm taking up select films which excite me, which is why I do not have a number of releases one after another. I have some films in hand now but none of them have gone on floors yet so I cannot reveal anything about them," said Asin.She is also one star who belives in staying fit and positive but has no faith in the concept of size zero.

"Do I look like I could believe in size zero? To each his own, but I like to stay healthy and I think confidence, positivity and a good diet can achieve that," Asin said.

(Deccan Herald)

Dum Maro Dum in Rohan Sippy style!

Yes, the filmmaker is not only gonna bring the remix version of the popular song of seventies, but has even used it to name his forthcoming release….

Rohan Sippy has titled his new project ‘Dum Maro Dum’ that has Abhishek Bachchan, Pratik and Telugu star Rana Daggubati in lead.

Featuring Dev Anand and Zeenat Aman, the memorable song “Dum Maro Dum” from ‘Hare Rama Hare Krishna’ still enjoys being a favourite among people and the director is keen to maintain its eminence. “The song is a classic and everything about it is unique,” says Rohan, “Legendary names are involved with the song and we don’t want to tarnish their reputation by doing a bad job. We want to do complete justice to the song and live up to the expectations of the earlier song.”

As everyone these days is doing promotional songs, the director wants to something different and unique. He said that they are in talks with SaReGaMa for the necessary permissions and at the moment, they have just finalised the songs. “We will work on the title song only when we are closer to the release of the film,” revealed Rohan.

Pritam is said to be composing the music while Jaideep Sahni has written the lyrics. Remember the director had given us a refreshing version of “Sabse Bada Rupaiya” with Bluffmaster, also featuring Abhishek? Now with “Dum Maro Dum”, looks like Jr. B will gonna rock again….

(IndiaGlitz)

REVIEW: Harishchandrachi Factory

Writer, director and theatre personality Paresh Mokashi's Harishchandrachi Factory might be out of the Oscar race, but the film is an absolute delight to watch, all thanks to the storytelling technique used.

Mokashi could've easily succumbed to making a documentary style biopic based on Dadasaheb (Dhundiraj) Phalke's life, a man credited with being the father of Indian cinema. Instead, the director goes in for ample doses of subtle humour used at the right moments to make the film amusing for the audience – much in the same way a story is narrated to a wide-eyed child. And none of it is fiction, as all incidents have been taken from the stalwart's life.

Harishchandrachi Factory begins with showing the early life of Phalke (played by Nandu Madhav). He's shut down his printing press, and becomes a local magician to earn a living. It is after one such magic show in a chawl, when the soon-to-be filmmaker chances upon a film screening in town – a place mostly frequented by the white.

Phalke watches the proceedings inside in wonder with his young son – what he later addresses as "a play on screen" or "moving images". Having been an art and architecture student and run a photo studio once, (shut down due to some funny rumours) Phalke has a decent understanding of the art and craft of images.

Curious to learn the new "moving" form, he takes big risks, selling off his valuables to watch more movies and buy books on the subject. And soon, he takes the biggest risk and embarks on a journey to London, to meet up with filmmakers and learn the craft.

Once in London, Phalke endears all and lands a job assisting pioneering filmmaker Cecil Hepworth. The learning process of the budding Indian filmmaker is shown in a fast-forward way, making it interesting and funny rather than just boring documentation of events.

Phalke returns home with a Williamson camera and lots of ideas in his head. After his first experiment, he zeroes in on the story of Raja Harishchandra for his first commercial feature.

(Buzz18)

Sonam Kapoor in talks to feature Akshay starrer

This is a jodi that's waiting to happen. Reports suggest that Sonam Kapoor is in talks with Anees Bazmee to star opposite Akshay Kumar in his next film Thank You. Akshay who's good friends with her dad Anil Kapoor has been praising Sonam ever since she made her debut.

A source reveals that Thank You is a romantic comedy and will see Sonam in a totally different role. There was buzz that Katrina had landed the role, but the source confirms that her dates were clashing with the Dostana sequel. This isn't the first time that Akshay and Sonam have been considered for a film. A while ago there were reports that Farah Khan also was considering Sonam before she finalised Katrina for Tees Maar Khan.

The film is supposed to go on floors mid year and supposed to have Sonam in a double role. "It's a comic caper in true Anees Bazmee style. Sonam has read the script but is still to make a final decision. At the moment she's in New Zealand shooting for I Hate Luv Storys."

However when contacted dad Anil Kapoor denied that Sonam had signed any such film with Akshay.

(Mid Day)

After 'London Dreams' failure, Asin jobless in Bollywood

After her film 'London Dreams' failed to click at the box office, there is no work for Asin Thottumkal in the Hindi film industry.

'I have nothing (no films) as of now. All that I can reveal is that future projects are under production and I can't talk about them until the producers give me a go- ahead,' Asin told reporters here Wednesday.

The actress was in the capital to announce the 55th edition of the Filmfare Awards. She, however, assured that she will be seen more in movies this year.

Asin, who won the best debutant (female) award at Filmfare last year for her performance in 'Ghajini', kept the media waiting for two hours as her flight was delayed due to the fog in the capital. But she was extremely apologetic for the delay.

The multi-lingual actress was quite at ease when asked about the qualities that she would seek in her man.

'I don't have a check list for my dream guy. But definitely think integrity of character is a very important quality. I am not a person who values physical appearances more than how the person is at heart,' she said.

(Sify)

Nobody knows Katrina better than me: Salman

Salman Khan is fed up of being repeatedly asked about his 'Veer' co-star Zarine Khan's resemblance to his lady love Katrina Kaif. The star insists he knows that they don't look like each other at all.

The actor, who appeared on Zee TV's dance reality show "Dance India Dance 2", told the show's grandmaster Mithun Chakraborty: "Dada, the press guys are hell-bent on making me accept that Zarine ('Veer') looks like Katrina… and I'm tired of telling them she is not even close to her."
"Nobody knows Katrina better than me and I'm telling you guys, Zarine does not look like Katrina," he added.

Salman thoroughly enjoyed his stay on the sets, said a source. When the actor saw the male participants lifting the girls high up in the air during their act, he joked: “Guys, now this is something I just cannot do! I may lift really heavy weights, bench press more than most men do but I can never lift a woman that high up in the air.”Releasing Friday, "Veer" is Salman's pet project. Written by the actor himself 20 years ago, the movie is set in colonial India.

(Deccan Herald)

Priyanka chooses seven heroes instead of one?

Maybe our Piggy Chops felt the former opportunity is much juicer than working with a single male lead instead…
Priyanka Chopra said to have two projects in her kitty – one of Vishal Bhardwaj's Ek Bataa Saat (where she plays a bride to seven husbands) and the other Rohan Sippy's hindi version of ‘The Italian Job’ (starring Abhishek Bachchan, Kunal Kapoor, Neil Nitin Mukesh and Akshaye Khanna).

Now going by grapevine gossips, Priyanka was keen to work in Rohan Sippy’s film. For, they had worked together in ‘Bluffmaster’ and Priyanka wanted to be paired with Abhi again. However it turned out to be a role with South star Rana Daggubati. So Priyanka chose to opt out, citing date problems. Rohan was heard to be aghast and grumbled about her to his friend Abhishek. This, in turn, upset Abhishek. Apparently, the actress chose to work in Vishal Bhardwaj’s ‘Ek Bataa Saat’ instead.

Rumours have it that while Katrina Kaif is also a part of the film, Preity Zinta is being considered for Priyanka’s role in ‘The Italian Job’.

However, some sources say that there was no way Priyanka could let go of Vishal's Ek Bataa Saat and so she regretfully opted out of Rohan's film. While others say that the actress had in fact not heard the script of Rohan’s film and has only Vishal's project on hand…. Phew! So much tittle-tattle….

Well as of now, we think its better wait for the dust to settle down….

(IndiaGlitz)

Bollywood’s maverick star Aamir Khan to quit smoking and drinking

Mumbai: Mr Perfectionist Aamir Khan is a changed man post the whopping Box Office success of ‘3 Idiots’ for the actor has decided to kick the butt and drinking for life!Related StoriesAamir, Katrina attend special screening of Salman’s ‘Veer’Aamir Khan turns endorsement king with a Rs 35 cr ad deal. News has it that recently, when the cast and crew of ‘3 Idiots’ celebrated the success of the movie at a posh restaurant in Andheri on 18th January, Aamir Khan surprised many by not touching liquor.

Even a couple of days earlier when Aamir attended his nephew Imran Khan’s engagement party, the actor did not touch a single drop of champagne.

It is widely believed that on 1st January 2010, Aamir made a resolution that he would give up alcohol and kick the butt forever. The actor sportingly said that the next time he invites his guests at home, he will simply treat them with nimbu pani instead of beer.

Talking to a news daily on his New Year resolution to quit smoking and drinking, a positive Aamir said, “I just felt like doing it from within. There is no specific reason.”

When prodded further, the actor playfully added, “Yaar, I’ve put on 10 kilos in recent months. Also, sometimes, I tended to overdo the drinking bit. And I hate it when I feel unhealthy. So I just decided that I wanted to quit alcohol for life. As for cigarettes, I was never a regular smoker. But I’ve decided to give it up completely too.”

Hmm…I’m sure Aamir’s die-hard fans take a cue from their idol and give up boozing and smoking!

(Spicezee)

Warner Bros. Pictures to release LAHORE

Warner Bros. Pictures will release Sai Om Films Pvt Ltd.'s maiden venture LAHORE on March 19, 2010.

The film which has already won many international awards, including Best Feature Film (Houston), Most Aspiring Filmmaker (UK) and two awards for Best Actor (Salento and Tenerife), has been directed by Sanjay Puran Singh Chauhan and produced by Vivek Khatkar and J. S. Rana.

LAHORE is a compelling tale set against the backdrop of competitive sports on the international arena. The story revolves around the potentially portentous lives of two brothers from Rajasthan. When fate takes them on a convoluted path that challenges the bedrock of all that they believe to be good and decent in human behavior, life-changing choices have to be made that will bring either sorrow or absolution. Deep emotions are evident in the movie when interactions between citizens of two nations, which fought three wars, are shown.

The film has a stellar cast comprising of veteran actors like Nafisa Ali, Farouque Shaikh, Ashish Vidyarthi, Nirmal Pandey, Sabyasachi Chakraborty, Saurabh Shukla, Sushant Singh, Kelly Dorji, Sharddha Das, Shraddha Nigam and Mukesh Rishi. The newcomer Aanaahad makes his impressive debut with the film.

The film has some of the best technicians from Hollywood and Bollywood which includes M. M. Kreem, background score by Wayne Sharpe, action by Tony Leung Siu Hung and sports consultant Robert Miller, production design by Keshto Mondal and cinematography by Rolf Dekens and Neelabh Kaul.

The film has also been shot in the historic city of Lahore.

(Glamsham)

Salman wanted to be a director and make a movie like ‘Veer’

It was close to 20 years ago, that Salman Khan first conceived the idea of an epic warrior’s story that will finally be out in a film directed by Anil Sharma, Veer. And Khan seems to be pleased with the end product. “I always wanted to be a director and would have made this film. But destiny turned me into an actor instead,” said Khan, dressed in a crisp red shirt, while making a fleeting appearance at Delhi’s FICCI auditorium for the film’s promotion. “The budget was too high for this idea then, over 20 years ago; nobody took risks with period films,” says Khan. “You always run the risk of not being able to accurately portray period settings and it can end up being tacky.”

This film has Khan flaunting his body, playing a 19th century warrior of the Pindari clan, who falls in love and fights for his country. But even before we can pick up on similarities between his look in the movie and Hollywood films like Alexander and Troy , Khan retorts, “We were not inspired by any other war film.” The 150 days of shooting in locations across Rajasthan have not been easy for Khan, from riding a horse daily on shoot and long fight sequences, but well worth it, though, if it clicks.

(IE)

Exclusive look at the song 'Punjabi Mast Punjabi' from No Problem

Anees Bazmee is one man who needs no introduction in Bollywood. After having made (read 'churned') hits and superhits with films like No Entry, Welcome and Singh Is Kinng, the man is back with yet another comedy titled No Problem. It's a multi-starrer of the highest order. Bollywood Hungama caught up with Bazmee and had him reveal a bit more about the film and the song that has taken everyone's breath away. Its called... well... we will let the director do the talking. Over to Anees...

"The song in question is called 'Punjabi Mast Punjabi' and it goes as 'Kadh lamba chaudi chest, Chehra dekhe bole best, Waah waah jat di nawaabi, Punjabi mast Punjabi'. The best part about the whole song is that all the lead stars of the film are present in the song and all the males are dressed up as Sardars, whereas the fact is none of the character in this film is a Sardar! In all, the film has got 5 songs, including the title song. This song is totally different as it has 17 male actors (all dressed up as Sardars) with 150 'extras'."

(BH)

Aamir is new Munnabhai?

Trustworthy sources inform us that Rajkumar Hirani has decided to embrace the biggest challenge of his career. Reportedly, the director of MUNNABHAI MBBS, LAGE RAHO MUNNABHAI and 3 IDIOTS has decided to cast Aamir Khan as Munna and Sharman Joshi as Circuit, in place of Sanjay Dutt and Arshad Warsi, respectively, for his new film MUNNABHAI CHALE AMREEKA.

The news was received with shock and astonishment by the loyal fans of the Munnabhai franchise.

Aamir Khan, who never reacts to gossip, did clarify on this issue to this writer, before leaving for the U.S. "I am shocked. I wish to clarify that there's not an iota of truth to it. Yes, I would love to work with Rajkumar Hirani again and again, since I enjoyed working with him in 3 IDIOTS, but the truth is we haven't discussed any new project yet," Aamir tells me.

But didn't he express his willingness to portray Munnabhai when he heard the one-line story of MUNNABHAI CHALE AMREEKA? "That's completely untrue! I have no clue what it's all about, nor has Raju [Hirani] narrated me its one-liner. I distinctly recall, I hugged Sanju after I watched MUNNABHAI MBBS. He was incredible in that film. When I think of Munna, I can't think of anyone except Sanju. For me, Sanju is Munna," Aamir states.

Meanwhile, Aamir has clarified that he hasn't signed any new film yet. What about Anurag Kashyap's next film? "I haven't signed any film. Not Anurag's film either. Right now, I would like to focus on my three home-productions before I start shooting any film. PEEPLI LIVE will arrive first, followed by DELHI BELLY and then Kiran's DHOBI GHAAT, which stars Prateek Babbar and me. This film would release towards the end of the year. But I plan to listen to new scripts after three months," Aamir sets the record straight.

Will DHOBI GHAAT have a Christmas release like TAARE ZAMEEN PAR, GHAJINI and 3 IDIOTS? Aamir smiles, "I haven't decided on that yet. But DHOBI GHAAT wouldn't have a wide release like GHAJINI or 3 IDIOTS, that's for sure."
(BH)

I have no problems in being compared to my father: Abhishek

Bollywood star son Abhishek Bachchan, who is making his television debut with the game show 'National Bingo Night' has no qualms in being compared to his legendary father Amitabh, who created history on the small screen with 'Kaun Banega Crorepati'.

"I am his son... if you are not going to compare me with him... then whom are you going to compare me to. Who doesn't want to be compared with him. He is the best that we have and will have," Abhishek said.

The actor said that he does not intend to outdo or compete with his father.

"You can't allow comparisons to deter you. I do what I believe in. I am his son and biggest fan. I don't compete with my father and I don't think any son does that. I am happy to stand behind and support him," he said.

On 'National Bingo Night', which premiers on January 23 on 'Colors', Abhishek said it will take the genre of game shows to a different league.

"Television has blossomed wonderfully. Fiction and non-fiction shows have made a mark for themselves. But the concept and interactive format of 'Bingo' attracted me to the show," he said.

Also, being himself on the show was scary, he said.

"In films, you review the movie and the character. But, here judgement will be passed on me as the person," Abhishek added.

"I get very conscious and have lot of inhibitions. To free myself of the inhibitions, I try to create an atmosphere on the sets which is conducive to work. I like cool, calm and relaxed atmosphere," he said describing himself as a very limited actor.

Junior B said it was unfair to call game shows as "copy" of the international format.

"Shows like 'Bingo' are formatted shows and not copies. The format is now played in India with an individualistic spin to this country," he said.

The actor also disagreed with the notion that the idiot box was a new means of earning money for filmstars.

"Film actors who have worked on television earlier have done so only because they were passionate about what they doing. If you are happy doing it then it will show on screen," he said.
Abhishek said money on television was equivalent to the remuneration in films or endorsements.
"I endorse what I believe in and it enables me to connect with fans. I also get compensated for it," he said.

The actor, who is currently working on 'Crooked' directed by Abhinay Deo said wife Aishwarya could not be part of the project because of date problems.

"She was already committed to her previous projects," he said.

On his plans for his birthday on February 5, the actor said he would be working.

(IE)

Anushka shares passionate kisses with Shahid

Mumbai: Shahid Kapoor is one lucky guy, who shares three passionate kisses with co-star Anushka Sharma in their upcoming YRF flick!
News has it that Anushka Sharma shared a lip-lock with dashing Shahid Kapoor not once or twice but thrice for their upcoming YRF film directed by actor-turned-director Parmeet Sethi. Well, in case you are thinking that Anushka happily complied, it is believed that the actress was quite wary of kissing her adorable co-star.

Talking to a news daily, a close source said that, “the kisses are not the brush-of-the-lips type. They are full-on smooches.”

Grapevine has it that Anushka shared a wonderful chemistry with Shahid and both were enjoying each other’s company. However, the makers of the film decided to capitalize on Anushka-Shahid’s on-screen chemistry and went ahead with three smooches!

Incidentally, Anushka was uncomfortable with the whole idea as, “Parmeet had to do a lot of cajoling. Finally, he managed to convince her,” said the source.

In case of Shahid, the actor was completely okay with the idea of kissing his beautiful co-star as, “Oh, he had no problem,” revealed the source.

As of now, the entire shoot of the film is complete and the movie is on the editing table. Well, let’s wait and watch whether we get to see those three passionate smooches or does the Censor Board plays spoil sport!

(Spicezee)

ROCK ON girl to strike with STRIKER

Nicolette Bird. The name may not ring bell immediately. But what if we disclose that she is the same girl who made her big screen debut with none other than the multifaceted Farhan Akhtar a year and half back?

Well, we are talking about the pretty lady who played Farhan's girlfriend in 2008's blockbuster film ROCK ON!!! by the name Tania, who splits with Farhan's character by the mid of the film.

Though she had a miniscule role in the film, Nicolette did make a mark and was quite convincing in her part.

CHECK OUT: STRIKER MOVIE SPECIAL

Now the elegant beauty is all set for her upcoming film STRIKER starring Siddarth, of RANG DE BASANTI fame, alongside. She plays a demure muslim girl having a conservative family background, who is Siddarth's love interest in the film. But due to certain circumstances the two get separated.

Before stepping in films, she was one popular model in AD world and has done numerous ADs & Music videos.

Hope her upcoming film STRIKER strikes gold at Box-office!

An Indian Films-STUDIO 18 release STRIKER will hit the screens on 5th February 2010.

(Glamsham)

I don't break commitments: Salman

Salman Khan has often been in the news for his relationships and break-ups but the superstar says he is very particular about his commitments - whether personal or professional.

"I'm a very committed person. If it (a personal or official relationship) breaks, it's always the other person who breaks it and not me. I don't interfere that much because it matters a lot to me," Salman, who is currently dating actress Katrina Kaif, told reporters Tuesday at the FICCI Auditorium here.

"It goes on the same way from my side. When I commit (to someone or doing something), I stick to it," said the 44-year-old, who is said to have dated Aishwarya Rai, Sangeeta Bijlani and Somy Ali in the past.

The star was in the capital to promote his upcoming film Veer, which releases Friday. The epic, which has been written by Salman himself, has been produced by Vijay Galani and Sunil A. Lulla.
It also marks the big screen debut of Zarine Khan in the female lead. Mithun Chakraborty, Sohail Khan and Jackie Shroff also play pivotal roles in the movie.

The macho star is also undeterred with the failures of period dramas in Bollywood, as both Shah Rukh Khan starrer Asoka (2001) and Aamir Khan's Mangal Pandey: The Rising (2005) have been box office duds.

"I've given my best and left it for the audiences to decide if it works or not... if it does, the credit will be everybody's and if it doesn't, then I will take the blame," he said.
(NDTV)

Akshay and Twinkle get anniversary wishes

A platinum jubilee couple wished Akshay Kumar and Twinkle on their shaadi ki saalgirah

On the morning of his ninth wedding anniversary (January 17), Akshay Kumar was out supporting the Mumbai marathon, and he received a unique 'gift' from an old couple who belong to Harmony, a group of senior citizens supported by Tina Ambani.

Your 9th, my 78thReveals an eyewitness, "A senior couple (in their nineties) came up on the stage where he was standing with Mrs Ambani and told him they had heard that it was his ninth wedding anniversary. When Akki confirmed it, the man (95) revealed that it was also their wedding anniversary (their 78th) and they wanted to wish him."

Superfit for his age!Akshay was particularly impressed with the old gentleman because he is superfit at his age and runs for 10 km every day. It was the highlight of the day for the starry couple when the couple blessed Akshay and said they wished he and Tina celebrate as many years of togetherness as them.

The actor became so emotionally so overwhelmed on stage that he told the audience, 'I actually came to encourage.... On the contrary, I am learning something. I just met a man in his nineties and he and his wife are in their 78th year of married life. There are so many things to learn from their lives."

"It was the best anniversary gift of my life!' Khiladi Kumar announced on stage.

(Mid Day)

Sudhir Mishra's unreleased film leaked

Bollywood director Sudhir Mishra's next film Tera Kya Hoga Johnny starring Soha Ali Khan, Neil Nitin Mukesh and Kay Kay Menon has been leaked on youtube.

The film was scheduled to release later this year but now the entire film can be viewed on the video-sharing site. The film is produced by Tutu Sharma.

Though Sudhir Mishra hasn’t seen the leaked print yet, he says it's definitely not the final copy of the film as it has yet to be mastered.

"I' am really disappointed by this….. the film is not yet ready…the film is not the final cut," said Mishra.

He also said that he has no idea where the leak came from. The film has been broken into 11 parts of 10 minutes and been put up on Youtube.

"This is the rough version that's coming out of somewhere. This needs to be investigated. My version of the film is not mixed, the music is not right, the music is not right. We had made a rough festival version. This must be that rough version," said Mishra.

Meanwhile, reacting to this new challenge posed by film piracy, Bollywood seems to be rather helpless.

Amitabh Bachchan said, "My film Paa too was on the internet, we kept removing it and it kept coming back… so we really don’t know what to do. We cant do anything."

Recently KS Ravi Kumar's Tamil film Jaggu Bhai was also out illegally on the Internet before it's theatrical release. And in December 2009, Anurag Kashyap's unreleased 2003 film Paanch was available for free download on the net.

Tera Kya Hoga Johnny's Internet leak is a first of sorts for the Hindi film industry but it's a menace that Hollywood has been fighting a losing battle against for a few years now.

(Buzz18)

For 'Karthik Calling Karthik' Farhan Akhtar learnt to ride a bike

Director-actor Farhan Akhtar learnt how to ride a bike for his upcoming film ''Karthik Calling Karthik'' and says it was actually ''uncool'' to do that at 30 plus.

"It was quite uncool for me to learn biking at 30-plus. This is something that people do much earlier," Farhan told Ireporters. "Initially I didn't bike because my mother had taken a promise from me, since she was always worried that something will happen. I was quite accident-prone.

But it was a requirement in the script to ride a bike; so I learnt it," he added. "Karthik Calling Karthik" also features Deepika Padukone and Shefali Shah. Produced by Farhan and Ritesh Sidhwani, the film is directed by Vijay Lalwani.

About the film, the 36-year-old said: "The premise of the film is the life of a character. It's very incomplete and he is very sad and frustrated. Then he starts getting calls and his life begins to change and through the course of the film you realise what these calls are all about and what's the price he has to pay for these calls." The actor was in the capital and interacted with Radio Mirchi 98.3 FM listeners to promote the film that is slated to hit theatres Feb 26.

Farhan, who earlier acted in films like "Rock On!!" and "Luck By Chance", will share screen space with Deepika for the first time. He said she is a very hardworking actress. "It's been a lot of fun working with Deepika. We got along very well while shooting. She is quite on the ball as far as her work is concerned and quite in tune with her character, constantly wanting to improve herself. For this she works very hard. "She listens a lot to what the director wants and kind of adapts herself that way. It is nice to see someone relatively young trying to keep improving," said the actor.

On Deepika looking taller than him in the film, Farhan said he didn't do anything special to look tall. "I wore heels and she wore flats," he joked, quickly adding: "On a serious note, I really didn't do anything. She definitely is a tall girl, but I didn't do anything to look taller." Farhan, son of lyricist Javed Akhtar, was also quick to reject rumours linking him with the 24-year-old actress.

"I don't know why these things happen and are being said. All I can say is that it's not true and that's really about it. We are just great friends, that's it," he said.

(Deccan Herald)

Aamir Khan’s next not for ‘All’ though it’s ‘well’

Arguably the only actor after the Bachchan’s prime to generate immense curiosity around his films is ‘Aamir Khan’.

Right now the perfectionist is busy playing the role of a loving husband and is closely watching the proceedings of his next production ‘Peepli Live’. The movie doesn’t stars him and has the gifted Raghuvir Yadav playing a troubled farmer who announces his suicide in advance, creating a media frenzy to capture the event live. The settings of the film demanded bucolic dialect that at times crosses borders and becomes foul.

The Censor Board asked Aamir to chop those scenes if he needs a ‘U’ certificate.

But how can a perfectionist kill the feel of his film so dear Aamir decided not to make a single change in the film. Even if that meant accepting an ‘A’ certificate that excludes the viewers under 18 from watching the film in theatres. So not very good news for below 18 Aamir fans who will have to stay away from ‘Peepli Live’ whenever it hits the theatres and according to sources, the dark comedy directed by newcomer Anusha Rizvi, ‘Peepli Live’ is already created the right buzz by becoming the official entry to the Sundance Film Festival. ‘Peepli Live’ is not for ‘All’ though it promises to be ‘Well’.

(IndiaGlitz)

Akshay cancels a shoot due to sprained back

The actor, who's known never to cancel a shoot, did it recently. And it was his own production!

If there's something Akshay Kumar hates doing, it is cancelling a shoot. The actor has a reputation with producers as being a no-hassles actor and for shooting despite injuries or ailments. Recently, a very bad sprain in his back forced him to cancel the shoot for his own production, Patiala House.

Akki has been shooting non-stop for the Nikhil Advani film at Mehboob Studios. During an action scene, he strained his back, which caused him immense pain. A source reveals, "Since he performs stunts on his own, it takes a greater toll on the back.

And he's had a back problem for a really long time. The pain wasn't getting any lesser. Akshay decided to call it a wrap and rest for the day. The doctor advised the actor physiotherapy and adequate rest."

Being the film's producer was also a reason why he didn't hesitate in taking the break. "No-one else lost money by his cancelling the shoot, so Akshay didn't think twice. He's had a record of working in the industry without ever cancelling a shoot, only because he doesn't like the producer to suffer losses at his expense."

Confirms Nikhil Advani says, "Yes, Akshay hurt his back while shooting. His back got strained earlier in the day during his exercises, but after the shoot, it got further aggravated."

However, the rest worked wonders for Akki who was seen at the Mumbai Marathon yesterday supporting a cause and cheering the participating.

"It was a prior commitment and Akshay had given his word he would attend," adds the source.

(Mid Day)

Shah Rukh rules the digital domain with Twitter

Shah Rukh Khan's humour is "classic" and now his fans can have more of him courtesy his feeds on micro-blogging site Twitter. In a latest, SRK tweeted Indian Premier League chief Latit Modi, "got loads of work for khan release. dont know if i will make it to auction...also dont have money to buy any players. ha ha."

The maverick megastar started the New Year by joining the website on invitation of his friend, producer-director Karan Johar. The actor started connecting to his fans right from the word go. His first tweet went like, "hi everyone. being extremely shy i never thought i would be here. but my friend @kjohar25 insisted that i should learn to share my life." It's no surprise then, that he his Twitter handle (id) @iamsrk has already amassed 74,992 in a short span of 13 days!

He's given fans a window into his world. Shah Rukh tweeted on Jan 12th,"now going. daughter awoke with a bad dream. she is too sweet. use to think when my cricket team wins the players r allowed a bubble bath." It's his family, films and his cricket team that find mention the most.

But there's also occassional chit-chat between his filmi friends. Like the friendly reply to Abhishek Bachchan, "wot r u doing up so late young man...will call paa just now and report you. love u man. last day of shoot tomorrow??"

Looks like the 125 tweets-old SRK is certainly on his way to become the top followed Bollywood celebrity on Twitter. So, whether his next film or his latest haircut, Shah Rukh's served hot and personal on Twitter.

Big B: Good and bad exists in all profession

Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan on Saturday said both good and bad exists in all professions and his latest film RANN only chose media to depict the contradictions.

"We have taken media in RANN just as a medium to show how in every profession both good and bad exists and how we have to balance business with social responsibility," he told IBNS.

Bachchan, who later went to take part in the programme of a reputed city school with children, said he also wants to visit the ailing communist patriarch Jyoti Basu in the hospital.

When he was told by reporters that the school authorities are organizing the children's programme in which he was to take part have kept the tiny tots waiting for him for hours without food and water, he said he would rush to release them.

"It is sad if that has indeed happened. I didn't know that. I don't want them to be forced to sing and dance with me. I will just go and check that and if it has happened will release them soonest," he said.

Bachchan also heaped praise on Kolkata and said he belonged to the city.

"My soul is with Kolkata. I have got so much from this city. I am indebted" said Bachchan who had worked in Kolkata before joining films.

(Glamsham)

Swishy Katrina Kaif is forced to disappear in 2010

Mumbai: Katrina Kaif is out of work or so it’s said. She might be touted to have a series of flicks lined up this year but industry is abuzz with reports that Katrina Kaif is more or less without a film this year.

The sizzler, who belted a number of rom-coms as Box Office hits last year, is now fighting her cute girl image to get more substantial roles. But the industry it seems, is in no mood to oblige the dainty beauty’s request as after ‘Rajneeti’, Kat has a few films left in her kitty.

Ever since speculations of Kat banking on her lead actors to churn hits got around, the belle has been striving hard to prove herself. And in her bid to lash out at her critics, Katrina reportedly sent out feelers to Madhur Bhandarkar. The stunner, it is believed, wants to work with the maverick director to prove her acting skills. Nevertheless, Madhur refused to acknowledge Kat’s demands.

Confirming the news, a source said, “Most of Katrina’s movies have been romcoms or commercial cinema. This year she has Prakash Jha’s Rajneeti, which is more serious cinema compared to her other movies. She wants to broaden her horizons and work for issue-based films, like the ones Madhur Bhandarkar does. Katrina likes all his films, more so because they are women-centric. Also, his lead actresses have won accolades for their performance and that has boosted their career graph. She has been sending him feelers.”

What’s interesting is that the source adds, “Apart from Rajneeti, which releases this year, Katrina has just one project in hand, the Abbas Mustan remake of The Italian Job. A lot of projects have been spoken about, but as of now nothing has been signed officially.”

(Spicezee)