The Bachchan parivar is known to walk the red carpet at many starry premieres and award functions. However, apart from Bollywood functions yet another place where Amitabh, Jaya, Abhishek and Aishwarya are seen walking together is at various temples across the length and breadth of the country.
It's a known fact that the Bachchans are strong believers of Lord Ganesha and are seen making frequent trips to the famous Siddhivinayak temple in Mumbai. In fact, just last week Amitabh and Jaya along with beta Abhishek and bahu Aishwarya were seen walking to Siddhivinayak temple in the wee hours of morning. This time, Sikander Kher also joined the Bachchan family.
Whether they were praying for the success of their big release Sarkar Raj or for the success of the IIFA Awards is not known. But considering their frequent trips to the Siddhivinayak temple, you never know, there may soon be a special walkway from the Bachchan bungalow to the holy shrine. This will be a Jalsa for Bollywood's Family No.1 as they will not have to do any Pratiksha to enter the temple.
Image Courtesy: Mid-Day Source: Indiafm.com Features | 3 Jun 2008 | 2:21 pm
Indian Music label T-Series today obtained an interim injunction against Yahoo Inc. and Yahoo India from the Delhi High Court. The Court issued a notice, in the interim, restraining Yahoo from streaming T-Series owned content on their portal Yahoo Video. T-Series is the largest music content publisher in India.
Rahul Ajatshatru, Media & Entertainment Lawyer representing T-Series said that they had sent a cease and desist notice with certain samples of infringing material to Yahoo and its Indian subsidiary in February. In response to that, Yahoo sent back a standard response, taking refuge under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA). Yahoo did not remove the videos, and a reminder notice was sent in March, reiterating T-Series' stand, along with more instances of infringing content. On not receiving a response from Yahoo, T-Series moved to the Delhi High Court and obtained a restraining order. T-Series has been very active against copyright infringement - their case against YouTube comes up for hearing in July, while they had also filed a lawsuit against Rediff following which Rediff obtained a license from them for iShare.
Like Yahoo, other companies have also sought refuge under the DMCA, saying that they'll remove the infringing material when notified by copyright owners, which is not applicable in India. The problem is, given the rate at which copyrighted content is uploaded on video sharing sites, the copyright owners will soon have to allocate substantial resources just for this purpose. Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 3 Jun 2008 | 1:26 pm
John Lennon`s sons and widow, Yoko Ono, on Monday lost a battle to block the use of the song "Imagine" in the documentary "Expelled: No Intelligence allowed." Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 3 Jun 2008 | 1:05 pm
After Shah Rukh Khan made his silence speak by not responding to cheeky remarks by fellow actor Aamir Khan, it looks like superstar Amitabh Bachchan has decided to go King Khan`s way by turning a deaf ear to Shatrughan Sinha`s latest barb against him. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 3 Jun 2008 | 1:05 pm
Singer and rhythm guitarist of English rock band Status Quo, Rick Parfitt has been exposed as a peeping tom by his ex-wife. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 3 Jun 2008 | 1:05 pm
Bollywood`s star couple Abhishek and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan have purchased a house in Dubai, becoming the latest celebrities from India`s tinsel town to acquire property in the gulf island. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 3 Jun 2008 | 1:05 pm
A fire that burned through a large swath of the Universal Studios Hollywood back lot during the weekend was accidentally sparked by workers using heating tools on a film set, fire officials said on Monday. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 3 Jun 2008 | 1:05 pm
Kelsey Grammer, best known from his long-running sitcom "Frasier," suffered a mild heart attack during the weekend in Hawaii, three weeks after his latest show was canceled, his publicist said on Monday. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 3 Jun 2008 | 1:05 pm
The IPL mania came to an end, in what was one of the most thrilling finals seen in a long time. Although Mumbaikars missed their team 'Mumbai Indians' in the final, they surely must have considered themselves lucky to get to see a cracker of a contest between two well deserving teams- 'Rajasthan Royals' & 'Chennai Super Kings'.
The VIP stand of the swanky D.Y. Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai saw some bigwigs from the world of politics, business, sports and Bollywood make their presence felt. A rare sight was that of Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar enjoying the game with none other than Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan.
While Aamir has been a lover of the game for a long time, this is the first instance when he took out time for attending the IPL matches. Although the actor was there with his nephew Imran and son Junaid, he seemed to be having a hearty talk with Sachin. The duo seemed quite animated while discussing the finer nuances of the game. And just as the match went down to the wire, the tension seemed to be building among spectators. With one run needed to win for Team Rajasthan of the final delivery, Aamir was once again seen in a discussion with Sachin. And in case you are wondering what the duo were talking during the course of the match, well the actor himself reveals it all.
Aamir in his latest blog on www.aamirkhan.com relives the memorable experience of watching the thrilling final with the Master Blaster himself. The actor says, "The match last night was certainly exciting but what made it a unique experience for me, was that I had Sachin next to me. You will find this hard to believe, but Sachin was able to predict every ball before it was bowled. 'He is going to bowl a Bouncer next.' 'This one is going to be a slower one.' 'Next one will be a Yorker.' It was uncanny. He got it right each time!!! No wonder it's so difficult to bowl to him. He has an amazing instinct."
After bring dumbstruck by the Master Blaster's acumen the actor apparently told Sachin, that the next time they watch a film together it would be his turn to tell what's going to happen next.
Shifting gears, Aamir in his blog, also talks about what's keeping him busy off-late. "My friend Paul Blackthorn was visiting Bombay and I spent the week with him reliving Lagaan. In fact we had a bit of a reunion for him and it was really great to meet everyone."
And finally for all you Taare Zameen Par fans, there is good news, as the DVD of TZP should be out any time now. "My apologies for the delay in the DVD release of TZP. The final work is almost over. I assure you I have tried my very best to make the wait worth it. Very soon I will tell you'll the exact release date, which is any day now." signs off Aamir. Source: Indiafm.com Features | 3 Jun 2008 | 12:13 pm
Noted Marathi screen-play writer and V. Shantaram award winner Annasaheb Deulgaonkar died here Tuesday. He was 87. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 3 Jun 2008 | 12:01 pm
The Rainbow audio album that had such a lavish launch recently, is doing very well on the Telugu film music charts, says its executive producer Kiran. Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 3 Jun 2008 | 11:55 am
South Indian audiences sat up and noticed this luscious, pan-chewing, red-lipped drug dealer in Pithamagan. Her effortless portrayal as a soft-hearted woman who hid behind a hard and prickly exterior was more than a match for the two towering male leads -- Vikram and Surya. Her role in Uyir is ... Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 3 Jun 2008 | 11:47 am
The Raj Thackeray look-alike, Rajesh Shringharpure, who plays a prominent role in Sarkar Raj was actually recommended by Hema Malini to the director. Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 3 Jun 2008 | 11:35 am
While on release dates, the October 2 weekend is getting crowded. Of course, it's not possible to have more than two biggies in the same week, but as of now, as many as four films are confirmed for this date. Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 3 Jun 2008 | 11:03 am
Cricket and Indian cinema are slowly turning inseparable. The introduction of Indian Premiere League (IPL) has surely strengthened the bond. While celebrities like Shahrukh Khan, Preity Zinta and Juhi Chawla took cricket seriously by buying IPL teams, others enjoyed live matches or caught up at home. However, hot actress Sameera Reddy ... Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 3 Jun 2008 | 10:58 am
The second half of 2008 is surely hotting up. A number of biggies are slated to hit the screens from June/July onwards and most of them indeed look promising. While the release schedule is packed with biggies, one more keenly anticipated film is also expected to arrive this year - ... Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 3 Jun 2008 | 10:38 am
Washington (ANI): Dustin Hoffman is offering Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt a lifetime of gifts for their twins if the pregnant actress gives birth on his birthday – August 8. Hoffman let slip that the actress was due on August 19 at the Cannes film festival, and he's now hoping ... Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 3 Jun 2008 | 10:36 am
New York (ANI): Sarah Jessica Parker was not the only one who walked the red carpet in the silver Nina Ricci gown she wore for the "Sex and the City" premiere, for socialite Lauren Santo Domingo beat her to it. Weeks before Parker showed up clad in the dress crafted ... Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 3 Jun 2008 | 10:28 am
While 2007 was not too upbeat for the mesmerizing Goddess of Bollywood Priyanka Chopra, 2008 seems to bring her back in action after a long hiatus. Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 3 Jun 2008 | 10:26 am
London (ANI): Mexican-American film actress Eva Longoria revealed how she manages to stay fit and healthy - exercising and eating healthy food. The 33-year-old was asked in an interview if it was the Hollywood lifestyle, which was pressurizing her into staying slim and she replied in the negative. Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 3 Jun 2008 | 10:20 am
Rank
Last week
Film
Plusses
Minuses
1
1
Jannat
Success of the music of 'Jannat' proves that if the overall product is good with reputed names involved, even limited promotion is good enough to help it sustain at the top of the charts. There was nothing exceptional in the way the music of 'Jannat' was promoted but some very good songs meant that the album would turn out to be a best seller of the season!
Even though 'Lambi Judai' worked most during the film's promotion, it is only the female version of the song which is a part of the narrative
2
3
Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Naa
In Top-3 in it's first week and now seriously looking at the hot seat in the second week - 'Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Naa' has done what 'Jodhaa Akbar' couldn't do for A.R. Rahman. While the latter took it's own time to be lapped up by the audience, the former has found instant acceptance. Each and every song which is being aired during promotion is finding appreciation.
None
3
2
Race
Dropping a little but still doing enough to stay on in the Top-3 charts, 'Race' is still pretty much in the race! However with solid competition coming from the likes of 'Love Story 2050' and 'Haal E Dil', it has to be seen that for how long 'Race' can stay on at the top.
None
4
4
Khuda Kay Liye
The way the music of 'Khuda Kay Kiye' has grown with the music lover, it appears that it would only do further well in weeks to come. The film has completed 50 days at the Indian box office while the DVDs have met with a good response as well.
None
5
6
Ada
Within a fortnight's time, 'Ada' finds itself in the Top-5 of the charts. For Rahman, whose albums are normally spaced out by months, this is perhaps for the first time ever that two of his Hindi movie soundtracks are occupying Top-5 slots.
'Ada' is a mix bag with half the songs being quite good while the remaining half being average. Nothing is below the mark though.
6
5
Tashan
Dropping out of Top-5, 'Tashan' is taking a downwards journey now. Though music of some of the last few films of YRF (Laaga Chunari Mein Daag, Aaja Nachle) was understandable, it is a pity that 'Tashan' couldn't create the kind of frenzy which was expected from this Vishal-Shekhar score.
The album just didn't get enough time to grow with the audience. Period.
7
7
Jodhaa Akbar
Rahman fans would be thrilled. From top to bottom, the maestro manages to make his presence felt. In the times when Pritam is dominating the music scene, it is a new experience to have the sound of Rahman across different genres.
None
8
8
Taare Zameen Par
Music lovers may still be warming up to the Shankar Ehsaan Loy score of 'Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic' but if one remembers, that was the case with
'Taare Zameen Par' too. Starting off rather slowly, the music has stayed on and how!
None
9
New
Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic
'Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic' doesn't quite arrive with a bang but one hopes that it manages to make it's presence felt over the next few weeks leading to the film's release. First song to be promoted, 'Nihaal Ho Gayi', may not have turned out to be track of the album but 'Lazy Lamhe' should do the trick.
Due to it's predominantly situational appeal, music of 'Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic' would work mainly if the film is a success
10
New
Haal E Dil
'Haal E Dil' may have opened at the bottom of the charts but it has all the trappings to reach the Top-3 in a few weeks from now. Anand Raaj Anand, Pritam, Vishal Bhardwaj and Raghav Sachar have worked together wonderfully to churn some of the best romantic tunes in the current season.
The film primarily stars newcomers which would mean that the music of 'Haal E Dil' would take time to make it's presence felt in a big way
Source: Music Festival, MGF Mall Source: Indiafm.com Features | 3 Jun 2008 | 9:21 am
The Raj Thackeray look-alike, Rajesh Shringharpure, who plays a prominent role in Sarkar Raj was actually recommended by Hema Malini to the director.
Says Ramu, "I don't know why she recommended him. She obviously believed he was talented. But Hemaji has never recommended anyone before. Not even her own daughter Esha, whom I signed on my own for Darling. I of course met the guy then and I was immediately struck by his resemblance to Raj Thackeray."
Hemaji confirms, "Yes, I did send Rajesh to Ramu. I think he's a good actor, don't you?"
Says Ramu, "To my knowledge Rajesh hasn't done cinema before. I like the challenge of introducing new talent. My next film Contract which is another underworld film has ONLY newcomers, and I mean there're no known faces in the film. When you work with newcomers you need a lot more screen time to build the character because the audience doesn't know the actor. But with Rajesh Shringharpure there'll be an immediate connect in Sarkar Raj because he looks like someone the audience has seen." Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 3 Jun 2008 | 9:08 am
Bollywood celebrities don't just peddle dreams but also dream homes. Real estate developers are now banking on the star power of the likes of Shah Rukh Khan, Amitabh Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai to endorse their projects. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 3 Jun 2008 | 8:31 am
Eros International has announced the release dates of its key forthcoming releases GOD TUSSI GREAT HO and DRONA. GOD TUSSI GREAT HO will release on the Independence Day weekend [15th August], while DRONA will hit the screens on another holiday weekend, Thursday, 2nd October on the occasion of Idd and Gandhi Jayanti.
Some other releases from the Eros line-up in the coming quarter include MEHBOOBA on 11th July, followed by MONEY HAI TOH HONEY HAI on 25th July and HIJACK on 29th August. Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 3 Jun 2008 | 8:25 am
Click above for more stills
Ajay Devgan recently had special guests from the Indian Army visit the Devgan family at his bungalow in Juhu. Mrs. Neelam Singh [President, Air Force Wives Welfare Association (Regional) and wife of Air Marshal K.D. Singh], Mrs. Jyoti Suresh [President, AFWWA (Local) and wife of Gp Capt. K.H. Suresh] and Wing Commander Rajneesh Bhatia spent about an hour at Devgan Bungalow along with Ajay Devgan, Kajol and daughter Nysa.
Mrs. Neelam Singh had an in-depth knowledge about Ajay's movies and told him that PYAAR TO HONA HI THA was amongst her all-time favorite films. Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 3 Jun 2008 | 8:22 am
Yash Raj Films has sent a clarification to this writer, which has been reproduced verbatim:-
"This is in reference to a piece published in a Mumbai tabloid stating that DHOOM 3 would be directed by Uday Chopra. We at Yash Raj Films would like to place it on record that this information is completely baseless and false.
"Uday Chopra intends to fully devote his energies to his career as an actor, in particular some exciting projects which will be releasing next year. He is also looking forward to essaying the character of Ali again in DHOOM 3 as and when YRF embarks on it. As for who will actually be at the helm of DHOOM 3, that is an announcement that must wait for a more opportune time.
"We urge viewers and fans to not pay any attention to rumors and speculations." The clarification should put an end to all concocted stories pertaining to the film! Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 3 Jun 2008 | 8:21 am
The first impression counts! The first look or the first promo either makes you excited towards that film or puts you off completely. And the first song-promo of SINGH IS KINNG, which is expected to unleash soon, looks magnificent. SINGH IS KINNG is a big film in all respects and the prices it has been sold at is justified as well. With such high expectations riding on the film, you expect nothing but the ultimate from this entertainer. The title song that this writer watched boasts of great visuals and has been choreographed on a gargantuan set, justifying the money involved in this biggie.
Incidentally, Studio 18, who hold the global rights of SINGH IS KINNG, has decided to give it a 9-week promotion, instead of the 4/5-week promotion that has become the norm these days.
Meanwhile, the Akshay Kumar starrer is hotting up with distributors in Europe as well. Even before the release of the first promo on television, distributors from France, Germany, Spain and other markets are queuing up for a day-and-date release of the film on 8th August.
The first of the European markets to witness closure on the film is Poland. Remarks Tanuj Garg of Studio 18, âWe have pre-sold all rights of SINGH IS KINNG and KIDNAP to Poland. However, we are looking at a slightly deferred release here. At present, we are evaluating offers from six other European countries for a day-and-date, but are in no hurry to close.â
In U.K., SINGH IS KINNG is likely to have the widest ever release for a solo Akshay Kumar title. âWe never go over-the-top with prints, but given the stature of the film and Akshay's market standing, we are definitely looking at an aggressive release,â he adds, âWith WELCOME, we gave Akshay his career's biggest Overseas hit and hopefully, with SINGH IS KINNG, we will beat that record!â Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 3 Jun 2008 | 7:09 am
While on release dates, the October 2 weekend is getting crowded. Of course, it's not possible to have more than two biggies in the same week, but as of now, as many as four films are confirmed for this date.
While the makers of GHAJINI, DRONA and KIDNAP have officially announced that they wouldn't budge from the date, there's a new entrant on this date - the Salman Khan starrer WANTED. Let's wait-n-watch who eventually makes it. As of now, the idea of Aamir Khan, Sanjay Dutt, Salman Khan and Abhishek Bachchan battling it out does seem exciting! Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 3 Jun 2008 | 7:02 am
The second half of 2008 is surely hotting up. A number of biggies are slated to hit the screens from June/July onwards and most of them indeed look promising. While the release schedule is packed with biggies, one more keenly anticipated film is also expected to arrive this year - Karan Johar's DOSTANA - which has been shot in Miami completely.
"I am looking at either November 14 or 21 for DOSTANA. I've yet to take a call on the release date," Karan informs me. Our guess is, Karan would prefer November 14, since the Big B starrer ALLADIN is confirmed for November 21 and obviously, it wouldn't be right to pit the father [Big B - ALLADIN] and son [Abhishek - DOSTANA] on the same date. Right? Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 3 Jun 2008 | 6:57 am
With five films, nine endorsements and three stage shows, Kareena Kapoor says she is overworked and exhausted. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 3 Jun 2008 | 3:30 am
Pain, suffering and bereavement bring out the best in an actor. And John Abraham knows it only too well, having shot 'Aashayein' while both his parents were ill and in hospital. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 3 Jun 2008 | 2:06 am
Onlookers often wonder why Sikandar Kher is constantly seen accompanying the Bachchans at important public events. It was presumed that his mom Kirron Kher's friendship with Jaya Bachchan was the reason behind this comradeship. But there's a much deeper link between Sikandar and the Bachchans. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 3 Jun 2008 | 2:04 am
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, known for being an atheist, attempted to appease theists here late Monday by offering to rename the controversial Sethusamudram project after Hindu god Ram. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 3 Jun 2008 | 1:02 am
Bollywood discovered one of its best screen couples in Akshay Kumar and Katrina Kaif. No one ever predicted that the half Kashmiri half English Katrina will catapult herself into the top slot of regaining Bollywood Heroines so soon. Source: IndiaGlitz.com - News | 3 Jun 2008 | 12:00 am
It was a glittering occasion at the Adyar Gate hotel in Chennai on the 2nd of June and Shriya in all her splendor was there posing for photos with tons of that ravishing smile of hers. It was an occasion which saw Lux, market leader in the beauty soap segment launching two new variants - Lux Strawberry and Lux Peach in the Tamil Nadu market. The two variants are currently available in markets other than Tamil Nadu.With this launch, Shriya joins the brands ambassadors club that includes pretty Priyanka Chopra and astounding Aishwarya Rai. Currently Shriya endorses Lux Nalangu Pindi, which is marketed only in Andhra Pradesh. With this launch, Shriya joins the brands national league.It is of no wonder that Shriya has been chosen to be the brand ambassador. Ever since she got the opportunity to pair with superstar Rajinikanth in Shankars ‘Sivaji’, the demand for her in movies and ads have grown to unimaginable heights.According to the marketing wing of Lux, new ads featuring Shriya will hit television screens by the year end. Initially the actress will feature in ads meant for South India and then gradually make it nationwide. Source: IndiaGlitz.com - News | 3 Jun 2008 | 12:00 am
For the movie buffs their days cant get better. The numbers of channels devoted exclusively for movies are only increasing. Source: IndiaGlitz.com - News | 3 Jun 2008 | 12:00 am
Mahurat of film Zindagi Live at Raheja ClassiqueStaring-: Milind Gunaji, Anupama Verma and Ragini Khanna Source: IndiaGlitz.com - News | 3 Jun 2008 | 12:00 am
Sandeep Kapur wants the audience to experience the same feelings and emotions that he felt when the Muncipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) ceiling took place in Delhi in which he was also one of the victims. Source: IndiaGlitz.com - News | 3 Jun 2008 | 12:00 am
Bollywood icon Amitabh Bachchan Monday refused to comment on fellow actor Shatrughan Sinha's latest barb - that he thinks the Big B is senior to him in age, but junior to him in the Hindi film industry. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 2 Jun 2008 | 6:30 pm
The Bachchans are all excited about their forthcoming film Sarkar Raj which opens across cinema halls this coming Friday (June 6).
Just last week, Amitabh along with beta Abhishek and bahu Aishwarya attended an event in the suburbs where the background score of Sarkar Raj was launched by T-Series. With the IPL mania finally coming to an end, all are now eagerly awaiting one of the first big releases this summer. And itâs not just our aam junta who is looking forward to this film but it seems that even tennis sensation Sania Mirza is eagerly awaiting the release of Sarkar Raj.
In fact just the other day, Sania was shooting next door to Amitabh Bachchan at Mehboob Studios in Mumbai. When she knew that âSarkarâ himself was in the vicinity she expressed her desire to meet him and wish him luck for his film. It may be recalled that Sania had even come on Bachchanâs popular game show KBC a few years back. Big B immediately came out of the shoot, when he heard that Sania has been waiting to meet him. After the exchange of pleasantries, Sania introduced her mother and sister to the superstar, and they wished him all the luck for Sarkar Raj. Whatâs more, Sania even appreciated the promos and said that even though she would be traveling abroad next week, she would definitely take time out and watch Sarkar Raj
Looks like Big B has yet another solid fan added to his humongous list of admirers. Source: Indiafm.com Features | 2 Jun 2008 | 5:09 pm
Bollywood actress Aishwarya Rai Monday denied media reports that she is in the family way. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 2 Jun 2008 | 5:02 pm
Telugu film actors Rajasekhar and his wife actress Jeevitha Monday said they were ready to join the ruling Congress party. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 2 Jun 2008 | 5:01 pm
Ever since Bollywood's embattled star Sanjay Dutt casually remarked to the media that he would like to contest Lok Sabha elections due next year, speculation is rife in the tinsel town, as well as in political circles, about his political ambitions. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 2 Jun 2008 | 5:01 pm
In most peoples eyes Kunal Kohli's film, Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic is his fourth film as a director. But for the ones who are not aware, it also marks the start of his third career, from being a TV presenter and a film director, he now turns producer, but to him it's a continuation of what he's been doing all along: storytelling. Trying to cope up with his postproduction and a battery-running-down mobile, Bollywood Hungama's Devansh Patel manages to finish this candid interview just in time with Kunal Kohli where he talks about his next big release, his newfound fondness with his blog and a special message for his overseas audiences.
With the recent debacle of YRF's Tashan, do you think it is time they desperately needed Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic?
The audience is very mature. They know that this is not Yash Raj's next after Tashan, this is Yash Raj and Kunal Kohli's next after Fanaa. They are different films by different people with completely different audience.
Why was the title Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic incorporated so late?
I was looking for a title that said a little more, that spoke about the film but could also be the catch phrase about life because I would like to believe that my film says things that have impact and relevance in our day to day life. I think that's what is important and that's why I went for this title. Yes, it did take me some time but I'm happy with it. When something is going wrong in someone's life, I'd like someone to say, I need Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic. The title not only describes the film but also our lives.
When something is going wrong in someone's life, I'd like someone to say, I need Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic. The title not only describes the film but also our lives.
What made you cast Saif and Rani in this film? Or did you decide to cast them on the basis of the success of Hum Tum?
I did not look at only the success of Hum Tum for casting them, they both suited the characters very well, and whenever both of them have done roles out of what they have done before, that is when they have excelled in their careers. When Rani does a Hum Tum, KANK, Black, or Chalte Chalte, and when Saif does Dil Chahta Hai, Parineeta, Omkara, Race, etc. they have played different characters and have excelled in that. So, when you throw a challenge to such actors of performing something that they've not performed before, they give you something special and that's what both Saif and Rani have given me in this film.
The songs of TPTM aren't picking up as they should have, might be because of IPL. But having said that, do you think it will pick up after the release of the film?
Unfortunately, I get a very honest feedback from people. I think who ever has heard the music have really loved it. Three songs have really connected well with the audience, 'Pyaar Ke Liye', 'Nihaal Ho Gayi' and 'Lazy Lamhe', and I think that the IPL played a huge part because the entire focus of the entertainment industry was on the IPL. Now that it's over, let's see what happens. I remember that when Fanaa released, the songs did not pick up instantly but eventually it became a musical hit. Fortunately for me, both Fanaa and Hum Tum did musically well. So the expectations are very high from the Prasoon Joshi - Kunal Kohli team. Even if you see Taare Zameen Par, Prasoon Joshi lyrics do take a bit of time to grow and before you know it, it is in your system. I'm very confident that Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic's music will also take it's time to grow. Even the ringtones of TPTM aren't out at the moment. That too makes a difference.
I'm very confident that Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic's music will also take it's time to grow.
In your previous venture with Saif-Rani in Hum Tum, you had a music video by UK's Juggy D, Veronica and Rishi Rich who gave you an instant hit number 'Mere Dil Vich'. Didn't you think of re-uniting with the band for TPTM?
This film does not require such kind of a marketing strategy. Every film has a different way of marketing. Hum Tum was one of the first films to have a music video and a song, which wasn't included in the film. That created a bit of a cult thing and post Hum Tum; every film started having music videos to promote their movie. What I needed more in TPTM was a song like 'Pyaar Ke Liye', which would be my theme song for the film and will be promoted more. I don't believe that what worked before will work this time.
How difficult was it to cast the four kids in the film? And did your story require a Sikh boy or was it done in good humor?
It was very difficult. We screen tested about 300 kids and the problem I had was that because the film was set in Delhi, I needed the kids to have a strong North Indian accent. So we found all four of them in Delhi after auditions. I'm glad that you mentioned the Sikh connection in this film because the boy who plays the role of a Sardarji is actually a Punjabi boy. When you see the film you'll know why one of them is a Sikh and the others are not. He looks so natural that everybody on the sets thought that he was a Sikh boy.
We screen tested about 300 kids and the problem I had was that because the film was set in Delhi, I needed the kids to have a strong North Indian accent.
Do you think that the overseas certification system for your particular film which I assume that it would be a PG or a 12 certificate, will help you tremendously as far as profits are concerned?
I never make a film keeping distribution in mind. If a PG certification makes a distributor feel that he has won the battle, good for them, but I don't like to give my films a particular genre and that's the reason I have never made films of the same genre. Mujhse Dosti Karoge, Hum Tum, Fanaa and TPTM are all different genre films, different settings, different worlds, etc. But as a director / producer, I'd definitely want my film to do well commercially which I think anybody would, after all, that's our bread and butter.
You've recently turned blogger. So now even the common man can have access to you and can interview you. What say?
(Laughs) I think it's not bad for the media. Before blogs came out, I used to write articles in the newspapers and magazines like The Times of India and India Today. And before plunging into films, I used to be a film journalist. So, I've always liked writing and commenting on things other than films also. If you read my last blog, it was about the blast that happened and it was not about promoting my film. I am thrilled that I have turned a blogger and can stay in touch with my audience. I don't have a fan base though because I am not an actor. I get very interesting comments - serious, funny, suggestive and accurate sometimes. Through my blog, I've learnt that there is a collective strength that the audience has and one must respect that. I like reading other peoples blogs too like Mr. Bachchan and Aamir's blog.
Through my blog, I've learnt that there is a collective strength that the audience has and one must respect that. I like reading other peoples blogs too like Mr. Bachchan and Aamir's blog.
After having worked with Saif-Rani for the second time, what growth have you seen in both post Hum Tum?
Tremendous growth and it's very difficult to measure it. In TPTM, both have surpassed their previous performances. They have matured as actors. Hum Tum was a sort of a turning point in my career and Saif's too. I wouldn't say Rani's because she was established through films like Saathiya and Chalte Chalte before Hum Tum. But it was a turning point for Rani in one way - She got her first award as a Best Actress for Hum Tum. I'd say that our fortunes turned with Hum Tum. And all three of us got more success. In TPTM, we had more respect for each other as our craft was more polished now.
Our fortunes turned with Hum Tum. And all three of us got more success
Any happy or sad moment you can recall while filming TPTM?
There was a certain bond and closeness that developed between the entire unit. That's something you strive for as a filmmaker. That just happened in this film. When we had the last day of shooting with the kids, and when they finished their shot and the announcement was made that it was the film wrap for the kids, one of the kids started crying. He went around hugging everybody on the sets. It was like a vacuum on the sets when the kids left. The ones, who were thrown into the film unit and had no idea of what the crew was like, suddenly get close to everybody. The entire set had teary eyes when that boy started crying. It was such an emotional moment and I wouldn't call it sad, but happy.
It was like a vacuum on the sets when the kids left.
You've judged so many reality shows on the television, don't you think that there is bundle of talent which the filmmakers are missing out on and there's much more to tap into than just the star kids?
Of course yes. If you see all the four kids in my film, they are all new comers with new talent and something for us to learn. That's what is important and we have to keep on discovering new talent in our country and it is around us all the time. Whether it's the IPL which has discovered new talent in the country or us filmmakers, it's important for us to find and harness that talent. Even Imran and Harman who are being launched are not star kids. So what's good is that it immediately throws up two new actors. What's brilliant about cinema today is that in a film like Taare Zameen Par, a huge star like Aamir Khan comes in during interval and the film is a blockbuster hit with one child in the film.
So, are you enjoying your new found role as a producer?
Yes, I am. You can call it my first film as a producer / director. I am dear to all my films and not because I'm a producer that I am dear to TPTM, but yes, being your first film as a producer means a lot to you because you have a lot to look into. There's a certain sense of ownership you get when you're the producer of a film which gives you a responsibility too. You also want everybody to be happy working in a Kunal Kohli production. I fortunately had this experience of doing that even in my previous films, although I wasn't a producer of the film but was in charge on the sets because there was neither Adi Chopra nor Yashji as they were never on the sets. So I've had this experience from Hum Tum onwards.
I am dear to all my films and not because I'm a producer that I am dear to TPTM, but yes, being your first film as a producer means a lot to you because you have a lot to look into.
Any words of magic you want to cast upon your audience in the overseas?
I think, they've cast a lot of magic on me because although Mujhse Dosti Karoge wasn't a hit in India, it was a huge hit abroad. I've got a very good track record in the overseas market and I've scored three out of three unlike in India where I've scored two out of three. So I hope they continue to give me their love and support and I'll make sure that I don't let them down. What would be interesting is that we can start marketing our films through our Indian audience to a non-subcontinent audience. We need to grow our audience base and if any Indian, Sri Lankan, Pakistani or Bangladeshi friends take along their non-Asian friends to watch their films, it's a good way to market not only our films but also our culture. Source: Indiafm.com Features | 2 Jun 2008 | 1:51 pm
After a cricket filled weekend comes to an end, its back to Mundane Monday. But our 'Guess Who' section returns this week to make your Mundane Monday a little more exciting.
Today's 'Guess Who' celebrity is someone who doesn't need an introduction or for that matter even any hints. However, nevertheless we can reveal that this hunk (in his late forties) still makes girls go weak in their knees. He has excelled as an actor in each and every genre and like wine is only getting better with each passing day.
The only adage that best describes this person is 'Tough times don't last but tough people do'â¦. So what are you waiting forâ¦.get cracking on who this hunk standing behind the trophy is?
To know the answer to last week's picture quiz, click here Source: Indiafm.com Features | 2 Jun 2008 | 1:08 pm
