Bollywood actress Celina Jaitley says she will withdraw her lawsuit against Pooja Bedi, who allegedly called her mentally ill and delusional, if the latter issues a public apology. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 19 Apr 2008 | 3:43 pm
Spanish pop singer Enrique Iglesias says he has tried repeatedly to convince his girlfriend Anna Kournikova to marry him — with no luck. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 19 Apr 2008 | 3:43 pm
A jury has dismissed a lawsuit against Kid Rock brought by a woman who claimed the rocker roughed her up outside his Michigan recording studio. A jury on Friday dismissed a claim by 29-year-old Kelly Ann Kozlowski for $25,000 in damages. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 19 Apr 2008 | 3:43 pm
With the Bollywood`s young couples increasingly captalising on their off- screen romance to promote their on screen chemistry, Bollywood`s first couple Ash-Abhi too have decided to climb on the publicity bandwagon for their upcoming flick `Sarkar Raj`. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 19 Apr 2008 | 3:43 pm
His real name is Kalpesh Suresh Modi but this Indian American actor is known by his stage name Kal Penn. Seen as the fulcrum of cultural displacement in `The Namesake`, the actor says his ethnic background did make his struggle harder in Hollywood. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 19 Apr 2008 | 3:43 pm
Spanish pop singer Enrique Iglesias says he has tried repeatedly to convince his girlfriend Anna Kournikova to marry him — with no luck. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 19 Apr 2008 | 3:43 pm
The Indian Tourism industry is the latest in line to cash upon the Bollywood star power. Ace actor, Aamir Khan has caught the attention of the UPA Government for all the right reasons and the government is trying to get the actor on-board for promoting the Tourism Ministry`s Incredible India campaign. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 19 Apr 2008 | 3:43 pm
US rapper Foxy Brown was freed from a New York City prison on Friday after serving eight months of a one-year sentence stemming from an assault of two nail salon stylists over a $20 manicure. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 19 Apr 2008 | 3:43 pm
Even though Upen Patel is himself just 2 years old in the industry and has done only 4 films so far (36 China Town, Namastey London, Shakalaka Boom Boom, One Two Three), he is happy to promote new and upcoming talent.
Two such lucky boys are composers Nitin and Sonny whom Upen is highly recommending to his friends and acquaintances in the industry. For starters, the pair of Nitin-Sonny is an emerging talent which has composed music for Upen's next film Money Hain To Honey Hain.
Says Upen, "What songs man, the guys are just fantastic in the tunes they have created for Money Hain To Honey Hain. I mean kick-ass and simply irresistible. You want hip-hop, they have got it. You want 'bhangra', they will give it you on a platter. You in mood for a club track, they won't disappoint you. Truly, they both have immense range."
While he is currently gushing about the composer 'jodi', Upen admits that he did have his doubts about the youngsters when he signed the film.
"Of course, I was apprehensive if they would be able to deliver the goods since Money Hain To Honey Hain was going to be their first film. I discussed this with Ganeshji (Acharya), the director and choreographer of the film, and he asked me to just hear out what they had made. He was supremely confident about Nitin-Sonny and so did I once the songs were played. The two have managed to influence me so much that I want them to get rocking a big way in their career ahead", details Upen.
Recently, Upen also shot for the promotional title song from the film. Smiles Upen, "Ya, you know how it is! You get a movie in place and then you certainly want to have an accompanying promotional music video as well. Thankfully, I have been lucky with my tracks like 'Aashique Ye Meri' (36 China Town) and 'Shakalaka Boom Boom' (Shakalaka Boom Boom) which have been groovy dance numbers."
He adds, "I am now looking forward to another one in my repertoire, once the title song of Money Hain To Honey Hain is out. I am kicked about the tune and the music video is shaping up well as well. It is grand as it features the entire case of the movie ranging from Govinda, Aftab Shivdasani and Manoj Bajpai to Celina Jaitley and Hansika Motwani."
As per the current release plans, Money Hain To Honey Hain is looking at a May 2008 release. Source: Indiafm.com Features | 19 Apr 2008 | 2:39 pm
The one treat that Hrithik's little son looked forward to on his second birthday recently was â¦chocolate cake! Little Hrehaan isn't allowed that bit of culinary indulgence. Says the protective papa, "He can have all kinds of cakeâ¦except chocolate. I feel his body doesn't need it for the first few years. Actually, you don't need chocolate at all at any stage of your life. It just displaces your hunger for proper food. That really bothers me. The moment a child has a chocolate, he grows addicted. I allow Hrehaan to have all kinds of cakes. But not chocolate. As it is, from the time he has a life of his own with his friends, he'll have all the access to chocolate. Believe me I know."
So is Hrithik a strict dad? "Only as far as Hrehaan's diet is concerned. As a child, I ate the wrong kind of food. In my later years, I really had to clean myself up. It was really tough, and I don't want Hrehaan to go through it. So, I'm conditioning him to do the right thing from the start."
Chocolaty indulgence apart, Hrehaan's second birthday was big fun for the birthday boy and his father. "We had a nice little party in one of the clubs in Juhu. Sussanne organized everything to the last detail. All of Hrehaan's friends were there. We did the usual fun things, like a magic show and an air castle for them to jump around, there was a mini-train and lots and lots of balloons. But Hrehaan was most excited about the chocolate cake." Can't blame the little fellow.
Hrehaan has something else to look forward to. He has a little sister/brother coming up in the first week of May. Says Hrithik, "I'm really looking forward it. Fatherhood will be equally beautiful the second time around. It cannot be any other way." Source: Indiafm.com Features | 19 Apr 2008 | 1:40 pm
The name Shaana Dia may not instantly ring a bell. A relative newcomer, who made her first big screen appearance for a Bollywood flick in Namastey London (as Laila), she has been watching her steps before getting on a signing spree. In her early 20s, Shaana, who was born to a Gujarati mom and a Swiss Jew dad, has been carrying dreams about making it to the celluloid ever since she can remember.
"Blame my mom for that", laughs Shaana, who would now be seen in Bhoothnath while sharing screen space with none other than Amitabh Bachchan, "I am told that she was watching a film even when she was in labor. I guess it was imperative that the movie bug bit me from my very inception."
Though Shaana has spent most of her life in Switzerland (13 years) followed by London (close to 10 years), Mumbai has been her abode for last one year. "With Namastey London becoming a big hit, I was noticed even though the role was relatively smaller. Feelers started pouring in about good roles and I decided to stay in Mumbai itself and explore opportunities."
One such opportunity was Bhoothnath where she plays Amitabh Bachchan's daughter in law. In the film, she is married to Priyanshu Chatterjee who himself is returning to a prestigious project after quite a hiatus.
"Let me be honest, I got Bhoothnath through a recommendation. Vivek (Sharma), the debutant director of Bhoothnath, heard about me and checked my performance in Namastey London. He contacted me and shared with me what the role was about. I liked the role and next thing I knew, I had the offer in hand. Simple as it may sound but the fact remains that Bhoothnath happened quite easily."
Does she mind sharing about the 'recommendation' part? Laughs Shaana, "I am sure you won't believe me but it is very true that till date I don't know who recommended me for Bhoothnath. Vivek just told me that he had heard about me from someone and wanted to see if I was interested. There were no further questions asked by me while he too didn't delve further on the recommendation bit."
Shaana agrees that though her character in the film is strong, she had to walk a thin rope and not make it sound overtly negative. "I play a strong-n-practical woman with a glamorous yet realistic feel to her persona. What I like about the role is that she has a voice and does bring on a strong feminist aspect to the affairs. At times, the role even made me explore my own personality."
Since she comes from a predominantly Western background, what kind of outfits would she be seen in Bhoothnath? "I mainly wear Western outfits but as I said earlier, the look hasn't been designed to be overly glamorous. When you see the film, you would realize why imparting a realistic touch to this character was so important", explains Shaana.
Bhoothnath isn't the only project where Shaana is currently involved with. She also has an English film in hand where she plays the lead role. "The film is called Idol and though it is in English, it has been made in India itself. It is directed by first time filmmaker Lalit Ajgaonkar. What attracted me towards the film was its unusual story and script. The moment I heard it, I was on for it. I guess my choice of roles hasn't failed me due to which Bhoothnath as well as Idol have been satisfying experiences", replies Shaana.
With Namastey London, Bhoothnath and Idol belonging to diverse genres, is there a specific image that she has in mind for herself? "I am not particular about how I want to be known in the industry or is there is a particular kind of personality I wish to bring on the screen. I look myself as a chameleon who can change colors as per the demand of the role. There isn't any specific mould that I wish to get into since I have it in me to be a different person for a different kind of a role."
"Being known for my professionalism if what I aspire most for", confesses Shaana, "I guess I have been plain fortunate to have got an opportunity to work with none less than Mr. Bachchan at such an early stage of my career. Once you work him even for a day, you learn so much about what professionalism is all about. Just interacting with him teaches you so much which no acting school or workshop could possibly do.
And how about Shah Rukh Khan? Does she have any scenes with him as well, not to say learning about professionalism from him as well? Says Shaana with a tinkle, "Well, for that watch the film. I don't think it is fair on my part to be revealing everything about me and my role in this interview itself!" Source: Indiafm.com Features | 19 Apr 2008 | 1:25 pm
They say 'better late than never'. And, same goes for this talented actor whose career took off late but is now going great guns. Well-known as 'Circuit' for his incredible performance in Munnabhai MBBS, it's birthday time for Arshad Warsi.
There was no looking back for this spontaneous actor who has to his credit films like Lage Raho Munnabhai, Salaam Namaste and Golmaal, to name a few, which did extremely well at the box-office.
Today, on Arshad's birthday, we at Bollywood Hungama wish him a great life and successful career ahead. You can post your wishes for Arshad in the window below. Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 19 Apr 2008 | 11:02 am
These days actors don't mind picking up new skills for their roles. From the legendary Amitabh Bachchan and veteran Shabana Azmi to the new breed of actors like Bipasha Basu, everyone has learnt something to portray their characters realistically. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 19 Apr 2008 | 10:01 am
Shelving plans of making a bio-pic on the life of the Bollywood stunt queen 'Fearless Nadia', Vishal Bhardwaj has now embarked on another more contemporary cinematic journey.
After making a pain-lashed Shakespearean love story with Ajay Devgan and Kareena Kapoor, he has now moved on to Kareena's ex-boyfriend Shahid Kapoor and her arch- rival, Priyanka Chopra, for a full-on feel-good love story.
However, contrary to reports, Vishal's film is NOT a new version of Romeo & Juliet.
"People would love to see me complete my Shakespearean trilogy after Macbeth (Maqbool) and Hamlet (Omkara). But I'm not doing Romeo & Juliet," says Vishal.
While Shahid is confirmed, Priyanka is currently shooting in Miami for Tarun Mansukhani's Dostana is still in talks. She is expected to give her nod when she returns to Mumbai in May.
For the boyish Shahid, the shortage of leading ladies after Kareena's departure acquires an interesting twist with co-stars as varied as Vidya Balan, Jiah Khan and now Priyanka Chopra coming up besides him in the next few months. Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 19 Apr 2008 | 9:25 am
Shambhavi Sharma, a finalist on MTV's reality show 'Roadies' who was known for her flirtatious and cunning ways, has now stepped into Bollywood with 'The Little Godfather'. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 19 Apr 2008 | 4:00 am
After the hard-hitting 'Khuda Kay Liye', Pakistani director Shoaib Mansoor says he wouldn't mind an India-Pakistan production, though creating a sequel to his film would be tough because of the 'misbehaviour' of some cast members. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 19 Apr 2008 | 3:00 am
His real name is Kalpesh Suresh Modi but this Indian American actor is known by his stage name Kal Penn. Seen as the fulcrum of cultural displacement in 'The Namesake', the actor says his ethnic background did make his struggle harder in Hollywood. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 19 Apr 2008 | 3:00 am
Bollywood actress Celina Jaitley says she will withdraw her lawsuit against Pooja Bedi, who allegedly called her mentally ill and delusional, if the latter issues a public apology. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 19 Apr 2008 | 3:00 am
Hip-hop Diaries Pune Newsline - 10 hours ago Jean abruptly breaks into tune. One could venture to say that it was Caribbean. But Wyclef Jean would retort, “My music though prominently hip-hop is marked with some undertones of world music. Get ready to grooveTimes of India Singing to gloryDeccan Herald all 3 news articles
All the stories about Kareena going on a crash diet and crashing on the sets are absolutely false. Source: IndiaGlitz.com - News | 19 Apr 2008 | 12:00 am
WOODSTOCK VILLA is all set release on May 16, 2008.Promos of the film are out. The industry is abuzz about how the slick promos are creating excitement and how the macho debutante Sikandar Kher is slated to be the star to watch out in Bollywood. Source: IndiaGlitz.com - News | 19 Apr 2008 | 12:00 am
Seems Big B has got tired of being treated like a god. His two new children’s films and now the megastar’s news of joining the blogging bandwagon speaks of how Amitabh Bachchan is trying to get connected to his fans in a more personal way and entertaining a big section of his fan base – children. Source: IndiaGlitz.com - News | 19 Apr 2008 | 12:00 am
She is known as a matured actress who can surprise the viewers with her stunning performance as well to portray highly emotional roles with ease. Source: IndiaGlitz.com - News | 19 Apr 2008 | 12:00 am
Ramesh Tauranis Tips Films, after delivering super hit of the year - Race, is all set to release its next magnum opus Kismat Konnection on July 11th 2008. Source: IndiaGlitz.com - News | 19 Apr 2008 | 12:00 am
Sanjay Guptas Woodstock Villa marks Khers debut and the actor is going to be launched in jhakaas ishstyle! Remember the opening scene of Sanjay Dutt in Rocky? And Ajay Devgan dare devil entry scene in Phool Aur Kaante! Sanjay Gupta has similar plans too launch Sikandar in a very stylish way. Source: IndiaGlitz.com - News | 19 Apr 2008 | 12:00 am
NEW DELHI (Reuters) - "Taare Zameen Par", a film about dyslexia that has earned critical acclaim and box-office success since its December release, is not in the running for honours at this year's International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) awards.
Needless to say, Sarkar Raj is in news for many things. Prominently because Sarkar Raj is the sequel to Sarkar, which was RGV's highly appreciated film and regarded as a major hit. And secondly because it is Abhi-Ash's first film, post their marriage. But clearly for some, fishing for news never ends.
A movie portal has reported that Jaya Bachchan is doing a special appearance in Sarkar Raj. However, there is no truth to the story. Says a source close to RGV, "The reporter spoke with Ram Gopal Varma to check if Jaya Bachchan stars in the film and even though he denied it, the writer went on to text Amitabh Bachchan saying that RGV had confirmed Jaya's presence in the film."
Such kind of irresponsible reporting has surely got Ramu fumed. "What kind of reporting is this? There's no Jaya in Sarkar Raj and I said so to the reporter," says an irritated Ram Gopal Varma.
It seems like the reporters know more than even the director of the film as they predict and make such statements. Though again, they carefully don't confirm the news completely by giving proof. So much for "exclusivity". Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 18 Apr 2008 | 4:56 pm
Ram Gopal Varma's Sarkar Raj is one of the most anticipated films of this year. And why not? After all, the first part, Sarkar, was a huge hit, bringing together the powerful father-son jodi of Amitabh and Abhishek Bachchan. This time the expectations will only multiply as bahu Aishwarya Rai also joins the cast of Sarkar Raj and will be seen for the first time in a film with hubby dearest after their marriage last year. Bollywood Hungama brings you a sneak peek of the film. Apparently, Abhishek plays Shankar Nagre who has now taken charge of the empire which his father Subhash Nagre (Big B) had built while Aishwarya would be seen in the role of a shrewd businesswoman.
The film is expected to release sometime in June but this Sunday (April 20) is the day when the makers have decided to unveil the first look of the film. Incidentally, the day also marks the first wedding anniversary of Abhishek and Aishwarya. While Big B would be gracing the event, Abhi-Ash would be making their presence felt in a virtual way. As Abhishek and Aishwarya are currently in Miami, (where Abhishek is shooting for Dharma Productions' Dostana) Papa Bachchan decided to have them present at the function in Mumbai via video-conferencing. Big B is even going through all the last minute details to see that everything is in order on the D-Day⦠Must say, first through blogging and now video-conferencing, Amitabh is surely becoming more and more tech savvy Source: Indiafm.com Features | 18 Apr 2008 | 4:31 pm
From a Miss Universe to a top star and a comic female actor to a brand ambassador for The Art of Living, Lara Dutta's packed a lot into her eight years of fame and five years in cinema. After packing a punch in Jhoom Barabar Jhoom and Partner, she's now ready with a few surprises like doing her own action stunts for Blue and more.
What are the other films that you are doing?
I have just signed Shree Asthavinayak Cine Vision's Blue¸ an action drama revolving around water-sports. Anthony D'Souza makes his directorial debut and Sanjay Dutt, Akshay Kumar, and Zayed Khan are my co-stars. Then there is Sudhir Mishra's Aur Devdas and two films with David Dhawan, of which the only thing I can reveal is that one is with Govinda. I may also be doing a film with Priyadarshan.
Is the other David film the one written by Rensil D'Silva?
I cannot answer that.
Till a few years ago, stars would openly talk about their films to come. Today everything is confidential. Is this a good trend?
I think that it is good not to speak out until everything is in place. This is the era of bound scripts and we usually accept films after hearing the first narration or draft. So it's better to wait till everything is concrete as it helps avoid controversies.
Apart from the heroes, are you too doing some action in Blue?
Yes, I am. In fact, Blue is the first Indian film to revolve around water-based sports. We will be shooting in the Bahamas among other locations and for over a month now, Akshay, Zayed, and I have been training for the action sequences.
Blue is the first Indian film to revolve around water-based sports.
Bhagam Bhaag, Partner, Banda Yeh Bindaas Hai and the other David Dhawan film - you seem to be doing a lot of films with Govinda.
Yes, but Banda⦠is a bit different, because in that comedy we are meant to be an odd pair!
You are also doing a lot of comedies.
I am very happy to be known as a comic actor. In the last five years all the great comedies have done well, and five of the best and most successful - Masti, No Entry, Phir Hera Pheri, Bhagam Bhag and Partner - have been mine. I am honored to have been thought of, for these films by directors who are the kings of comedy. It's also great that David and Priyan are coming back to me. I think that no other heroine has had such a streak as a comic actor in such a variety of comedies.
In India, however, comic actors are not rated highly though comedy is the most difficult part of acting.
I agree that comedy is tougher to do than anything else. But it's great to know that perceptions are changing. A few years ago, it was drama but now the success ratio of comedies is much more. Now some of the best actors are comic actors, and I have been lucky to work with actors who are brilliant at comedy, from Govinda to Akshay Kumar, Salman Khan and Paresh Rawal. Pareshji in particular has taught and guided me a lot.
I agree that comedy is tougher to do than anything else. But it's great to know that perceptions are changing.
How would you compare David Dhawan and Priyadarshan?
They are both so good yet so different. With David, a lot of work is done on the sets, on-the-spot improvisations rule, and that means in the performance too. Priyan, on the other hand, knows exactly what he wants from the scene, and so everything is canned in one or two takes.
But as an actor, I have to be very alert with both. Everything about comedy boils down to timing and improvisation and one look or glance and a slight change in your dialogue delivery can actually turn the whole character around.
Actors from ramps or pageants fit into two categories - those who accept offers after their wins and turn serious actors only later, or those who use this route as a passport to films. What about you?
I knew that I wanted to be an actor since I was 13. But since I lived in Bangalore, faraway Mumbai was just a dream. When I ended up winning the Miss Universe contest, I got offers straightaway and I thought that I should not look a gift-horse in the mouth!
But you cannot blame the industry and the audience for slotting a girl from the glamour world. It is up to the actor to get the identification with her work and establish a link that goes beyond the Miss Universe tag by doing different, normal roles.
And was Andaaz the right debut?
Of course it was! Unless I could have got a debut vehicle like Deepika Padukone did in Om Shanti Om!
Are there any films you regretted doing?
There were, but at least they taught me lessons early, so that I do not make mistakes now. I am very happy with what I have achieved and am in no hurry, I am not into the numbers game and I want to have fun. I am growing as an actor and I don't obsess about a big film being made without me!
I am very happy with what I have achieved and am in no hurry, I am not into the numbers game and I want to have fun.
And which are your special favorites?
My turnaround film was Boney Kapoor's No Entry. It not only opened up many doors for me but also became special as Boney Kapoor asked me to choose between the role I eventually did and Bipasha Basu's character. I thought that there was a greater challenge in playing a suspicious wife, and also Bipasha's role was broadly on the same lines as my character in Masti.
You talked about the numbers game. But Kajol recently said that but for a few male exceptions the era of the star-system is over. Would you agree?
She is right in a way. A star by definition is unreachable. A film star is someone who earlier was only seen in a film. If he or she did only one film in a year, the audience would have to wait. Now the exclusivity isn't there - stars are accessible and are seen daily on television and in ads. And ever since the '70s, the heroes have always had the upper hand.
One of the biggest shocks of 2007, though a pleasant variety, was your performance in Jhoom Barabar Jhoom. How did that happen?
Anyone who enters the film industry today, wants to work with Yash Raj Films. And Yash Uncle and Aditya had promised me that when they had the right role for me they would call. And it happened in a very bizarre way - JBJ's offer came when both my parents had been hospitalized and I was sitting outside their rooms. I was completely distraught and recall telling them that I could not talk about anything for five days, which was really crazy as I had wanted to work with them for years! What also made JBJ special is that Adi and Shaad Ali wanted only Lara Dutta, which was a first for me, because it was not a case of which good-looking female actor was available on some scheduled dates! This made me want to give more than 100 per cent.
JBJ's offer came when both my parents had been hospitalized and I was sitting outside their rooms. I was completely distraught and recall telling them that I could not talk about anything for five days, which was really crazy as I had wanted to work with them for years
You are endorsing Sri Ravi Shankar's The Art of Living. How involved are you personally with this?
I am certainly not just a celebrity pushing something. I was introduced to this by a friend eight years ago, and whatever I am doing is voluntary and unpaid and only because it worked and still works for me. I have been following the techniques since and it's a wonderful de-stressing tool. It helps you focus and also deal with everyday pressures.
When I became a celebrity I was just 21 - and that's not an age at which you are mature enough to deal with the pressures and the competition. Making your mark and becoming a go-getter is important, but this technique allows you to do that in a proper, stress-free manner and in the right way. It veers you away also from dangerous things like crash diets and eating disorders. When both my parents were ill, it helped me a lot too.
So what exactly are you doing as their ambassador?
It's like this: Yoga has been around for ages, but it took a Madonna for it to be recognized in the West. Celebrities make a difference. Right now I will be going to New Zealand with the teachers. New Zealand has the highest suicide rate among youth in the world and the people there do not know how to deal with this. We will be initiating the youth there into ancient Indian techniques like 'Pranayam' and Meditation, amongst other things. We will be interacting in a big way with the government authorities as well as the media. I have already gone with their teams to a few places like Abu Dhabi and Dubai. But again, all this is because I have benefited and I know that others will too.
Screen India Source: Indiafm.com Features | 18 Apr 2008 | 3:36 pm
A day after the shocking story of a split in one of filmdom's most durable marriages rocked Mumbai, Arbaaz Khan and Malaika Arora Friday said it was a publicity stunt gone horribly wrong. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 18 Apr 2008 | 2:31 pm
Malayalam actress Navya Nair who acts in various other South Indian languages has just signed her second Kannada film Namma Yejamaanaru which is directed by award winning director Nagabharana. The film will have Kannada Superstar Dr. Vishnuvardhan in the title role. Young actor Vijaya Raghavendra plays another important role in ... Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 18 Apr 2008 | 12:36 pm
Legendary Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan has now become closer and more accessible to people by sharing his views and replying to queries on his personal blog on BigAdda.com, an Indian youth network site. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 18 Apr 2008 | 12:31 pm
The Anil Ambani-promoted BIG Music has announced a mega world tour for the finalists of the reality show 'Star Voice of India Chhote Ustaad' contest. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 18 Apr 2008 | 12:31 pm
Darsheel Safary, who wowed all in 'Taare Zameen Par', has stepped into the world of advertising, becoming the brand ambassador of health drink Horlicks and he advises kids to try it to be 'cool'. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 18 Apr 2008 | 12:31 pm
For starters, Rajeev Khandelwal is the man who can make millions of girls faint with a mere 'Hello'. Imagine what will happen when the girls get to hear him for a full-on time frame of 3 hours! The reason being that Rajeev, the chocolate liquor of the TV industry is all set to say 'cheese' to the big screen, with his debut film Aamir. Bollywood Hungama spoke at length to this romantic hunk, whose 'morning mist' filled eyes were doing most of the talking. Presenting an exclusive interview with Rajeev Khandelwal.
What is your film Aamir all about?
Well this film is about a guy, Aamir who after returning to Mumbai from London finds himself in a situation where he is left with no option but to follow the person who is commanding him to do something which he would never want to do and how he emerges out of it as a winner. It also tells us that how some situations can make an ordinary man to come forward as a hero.
It also tells us that how some situations can make an ordinary man to come forward as a hero
What is your character in the film?
My character is of a middleclass Muslim guy, who is an ordinary person and who goes to London through scholarship for studies, loves his family very much and wants to lead a quite and calm life.
Why such an unusual debut when you could have made an easy debut in any romantic film?
Yes, that's true, I even got many offers for romantic films. But I didn't opt for any because I knew that everyone will expect me to make my debut in a romantic film since it would have been easy for me. But I wanted to do something which was unexpected rather than doing the obvious.
What made you leave TV serials?
TV is very regressive; I couldn't experience growth over there. In case of Sujal (Kahin Toh Hoga), I felt that the story was going nowhere and my role had no meaning left so I quit. In 'Left Right Left' also, though the character of Capt. Rajveer Singh Shekhawat was very close to my heart I thought that the character had reached its peak and was no more required in the story so I decided to quit. But the I loved doing that role because it was the role for which I received the best actor award.
TV is very regressive; I couldn't experience growth over there
Would you like to go back to TV?
Actually speaking, No. I would not like to look back and I hope I don't have to chew my words. I just want to look ahead and I hope people like my work in Aamir.
You are a debutant; your director is a debutante. Weren't you skeptical about choosing him as your launch pad?
Not at allâ¦though it is Rajkumar's first film, we cannot forget that he has assisted Anurag Kashyap in films like Black Friday and No Smoking. He is a fantastic director. In fact, I believe that when every one is a new comer, the passion to make the project a hit is all the more because every one wants their first film to be the best⦠So I was never skeptical about making my debut with Aamir. In fact, I think I couldn't have had a better choice than Aamir to launch myself in Bollywood. I believe that even if the film doesn't work, I'll never regret, choosing it as my launch pad. I trust my director and my film very much.
The lover boy of TV has no female lead opposite him in his first film.
I know it sounds very weird to most people, but the fact is that there was no need or place for an actress in the film. The script is very strong and revolves around my character, so Rajkumar didn't find the need of introducing any actress unnecessarily.
How did your parents react to your decision of quitting TV and doing films?
Wellâ¦initially, they were somewhat upset with me because obviously without any project in hand I quit 'Left Right Left' and was sitting idle, they were not really happy with me leaving TV because whatever said and done, you get good amount of money in TV. But once I signed Aamir, they were very happy with my choice of film.
The script is very strong and revolves around my character, so Rajkumar didn't find the need of introducing any actress unnecessarily.
How was your experience shooting for the film?
The experience was quite adventurous. Unlike shooting at foreign locales; we shot the entire movie at the real locations of Mumbai like 'Bhindi Bazaar', 'mutton market', 'chor bazaar', 'bandra masjid' etc. We used too shoot in the sun, near the gutters and naalis, at all busy locations, in the middle of traffic etc⦠but it was quite amazing shooting like this for my very first film, it was quite challenging and I love taking challenges.
You must have received many offers after Aamir, have you signed anything as yet?
Yes, I have received loads of offers for a number of films but I have not signed anything as yet because I know that the roles, which are offered to me, are all based on my previous image of Sujal. I want to take it slow, I want them all to see Aamir first and then give me roles. Source: Indiafm.com Features | 18 Apr 2008 | 12:22 pm
Shivaraj Kumar's Paramesha Panwala, produced by Aditya Babu and directed by Mahesh Babu will start shooting on 21st April. The film is a remake of Shahrukh Khan's Don. Shooting will commence at Kanteerava Studios, Bangalore. Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 18 Apr 2008 | 12:19 pm
Washington (ANI): Troubled American pop princess Britney Spears trusted friend Sam Lufti, has agreed once again to stay away from her till July 31. The order came about on Wednesday Apr 16 and it was revealed at a Los Angeles court, People magazine reported. The had been slapped on Lufti ... Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 18 Apr 2008 | 12:13 pm
Ever since last Diwali and Om Shanti Om, Shahrukh Khan fans have been starving to see their favourite hero on screen. They did catch a glimpse of the Baadshah gyrating to the "Break Free" item number for Rakesh Roshan's Krazzy 4. But that was not enough to satisfy them. Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 18 Apr 2008 | 11:22 am
On the eve of the Summer Olympics torch relay in New Delhi, Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan is facing a tough race. Shrugging off controversy, the star spoke to Steven Baker on his latest controversial role- playing the part of Olympic torchbearer. Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 18 Apr 2008 | 11:01 am
Big B has initiated 'bigb.bigadda.com' to connect and communicate with people. With the coming of the internet, a simple concept like blogging is now used as the largest form of self-expression as users now discover the huge potential of this medium, which is far greater than any other media, solely ... Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 18 Apr 2008 | 10:52 am
With the Nokia-Shahrukh Khan association for the IPL came the announcement of the Kolkata Knight Riders promotional music album Nokia 2 Hot 2 Cool in association with T-Series at the Taj Lands End on April 16. Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 18 Apr 2008 | 10:46 am
Rajkumar Gupta is Anurag Kashyap's true protege. Having assisted Anurag in Black Friday, Gupta, the director of Aamir, learnt the art of shooting with hidden cameras and in real locations. UTV Spotboy's Aamir has been shot extensively in real locations like Bhendi Bazzar, Crawford Market, Jacob Circle, Bandra Masjid and ... Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 18 Apr 2008 | 10:34 am
Darsheel Safary is courting stardom at age 11 and relishing it too but at the same time the little bundle of talent, who wowed all and sundry in 'Taare Zameen Par' (TZP), rues that he has lost most of his friends. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 18 Apr 2008 | 10:31 am
After the hard-hitting, Khuda Kay Liye Shoaib Mansoor plans a sequel to the film. However, the project stands to lose because of the nightmarish experiences the middle-aged director went through.
"My kismet was with me. If in Pakistan, we didn't have President Musharraf in-charge of the regime my film would've been in serious trouble. Yes, he openly supported the film. He saw Khuda Kay Liya and made his appreciation and approval so apparent that the work of the censors became quite easy. I don't think my film would have made it into the theatres."
Surprisingly the Pakistani fundamentalists also kept their peace. "The majority of the audience reacted so positively that they didn't have the guts to raise their voice. Also, I covered my bases well. If Naseeruddin Shah's anti-fundamentalist rhetorics had any flaws I'd have been hauled over the coals. I've a fair command over my religion. However if you ask a maulvi about it, he would say I am not Muslim at all specially after seeing my film. But I'd like to say I'm a far better Muslim than any maulvi. Just as they say, they're doing a Jihaad I'd like to think I've done Jihaad through my film. If I've shown so much courage and taken such a personal risk to depict the true meaning of religious faith it's a form of Jihaad born of strong convictions." It isn't as if Shoaib Mansoor thinks it's all peaches-and-creams in the Land Of Dreams. "If you and I travel together you can sail through customs. But I'll be grilled although I dress conventionally. Intolerance is a way of life in every culture. Even today, women are treated as commodities in many countries. Through my leading lady Iman Ali I wanted to show how women are treated."
And now Shoaib Mansoor plans a sequel to Khuda Kay Liye. "But I wonder if I'm equal to the task. I had members of the cast who didn't behave well during the shooting. How can I work with them again? My lead actor Shan gave an interview before the release of Khuda Kay Liye where he said I had made the film only for myself and for my close friends. These commercial actors believe audiences actually want potboilers." So did Shan apologize after Khuda Kay Liye succeeded? "Apologize? He hasn't called me once since the release. The whole of Pakistan has changed their mind about Shan after my film. I Believe I could only realize 50% of my script. I don't want to go through that suffering. Whatever I make, it would've a powerful message. I feel I've to use the cinematic medium to say something meaningful."
Apparently the leading man Shan who's a major star in Pakistan gave Mansoor hell.
He evades the question. "Maybe these stars behave the same way with all directors. Later I found out that these stars were being far more disciplined with me than with other Pakistani filmmakers. I wish they'd have looked at Naseeruddin Shah. What convictions and integrity he has! After hearing my script his first condition was, 'I'd do it for free'. My other actors first wanted to know how much money they'd get." Interestingly all the actors except Naseer and Shan in Khuda Kay Liye were feature-film firsts. Shoaib's next film could be an Indo-Pak production. "I'd like that. I feel the predicament regarding religious bigotry is the same in both countries. I feel Pakistan and India are casualties of wrong policies. I wish to address my films to these issues. It's important to bring about an awakening in people. Not that I feel cinema can change mindsets. I don't think Khuda Kay Liye has revised Muslim bigotry."
Shoaib is gung-ho about Jodhaa-Akbar. "The effort and the funds are evident. I was awed by the film's magnitude. I wish I could make a period film like this. History and fiction are my lifelines. I'm very interested in the life of Akbar. And I'm very impressed by Jodhaa-Akbar. My only grouse is that Hrithik Roshan is miscast. It was important to make sure that the actor who plays a historical character is correct in posture and bearing. In my own film too some actors were miscast. But then I wasn't in a negotiable position."
Shoaib admits Khuda Kay Liye got recognition outside Pakistan only at film festivals. "The film went through a nightmare in the US. I had no distribution setup. So I negotiated with some people on the e-mail. On trust, I sent them the prints of the film. They ran the film for a month in the US. And then vanished with the funds and the prints. In fact, I should make a film on my experiences while making the film. For example, the actor whom I initially wanted in the lead Junaid Jamshed was my close friend. I introduced him on television and promoted him to become a top musician in Pakistan. When I offered him the role he said yes eagerly. But then he became a mullah and lost nerve. I lost precious eight months in his dillydallying."
Reacting to the film's box office performance in India, Shoaib says, "I keep myself away from such things. But I wish the film's Indian distributors had treated it with more importance. It's the costliest film ever made in Pakistan. And I raised the funds somehow on my own." Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 18 Apr 2008 | 10:04 am
London (ANI): Before achieving global stardom, Angelina Jolie like any other struggling model took to posing in some racy pictures get her big break. Sensational pictures of the then 16-year-old Jolie have been published for the first time. They were taken when, as a rebellious youngster, she was trying to launch ... Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 18 Apr 2008 | 9:56 am
Mohan Babu will be playing a special role in Puri Jagannath's film Bujjigadu Made In Chennai. He has been signed up by Trivikram Srinivas to play a special role in his new film starring prince Mahesh Babu in the lead. The film will hit the floors on April 24. S ... Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 18 Apr 2008 | 9:46 am
