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Singh Is Kinng, directed by Aneez Bazmi starring Akshay Kumar, Katrina Kaif, was in the news regarding a non-existing controversy. In order to clear the rumors and know the whole truth, Bollywood Hungama spoke to Vipul Shah and here is what he had to say.
"To begin with there was no controversy. Yesterday, a newspaper had carried an article suggesting some issues surrounding Singh Is Kinng. Apparently, the article stated that Akshay's look in the film had created resentment in the Sikh community. So in order to clear the air we had a special screening for some prestigious authorities of the Sikh community, including, Dr. Gurbachan Singh Bachan (University of Mumbai), Kulwant Singh (Sri Guru Singh Sabha, Dadar, Mumbai), Parbinder Singh (Sikh Brotherhood) S. Swaranjeet Singh (Sikh Media Watch), Sardar Manmohan Singh (Sri Guru Singh Sabha, Dadar, Mumbai), Manmeet (Actor and Model), and Jaspal Singh (Sikh Sangat of Mumbai). Now there were certain areas they suggested correction, which have been taken care of, Akshay has re-shot several scenes. But its impossible to do the whole film again," says Vipul.
"Some crucial scenes were re-shot and they have given it a clean chit now. The press conference wherein Akshay, Aneesji, the Sikh Authorities, and I were present was to clear this confusion regarding the film. Akshay will be sporting a beard throughout the film like a proper Sikh," adds Vipul.
Singh Is Kinng also starring Neha Dhupia, Sonu Sood, Sudhanshu Pandey, Ranvir Shorey, Kirron Kher, and Om Puri will release worldwide on 8 August 2008. Source: Indiafm.com News | 14 Jun 2008 | 1:18 pm
With Chupke Se, she made people sit up and take notice of her talent. In her next film Maqbool, she made her presence felt among the talented actors like Pankaj Kapur, Irrfan Khan and Tabu. Thereafter, her comic-timing in Padmashree Laloo Prasad Yadav was much appreciated by the critics. Finally, she spooked her versatility with her performance in Woh Lamhe. Only recently she was seen in the multi-starrer Dus Kahaniyaan. We are talking about the sultry beauty Masumeh.
For all those who missed out the chat with Masumeh, where she spoke about Saas Bahu Aur Sensex and Alibaug, her upcoming films, here is the chance to catch up with it only on Bollywood Hungama.
Masumeh Makhija: Hi Friends, This is Masumeh here
Lma: Masumeh, what does your name mean?
Masumeh Makhija: Ima, my name means innocence.
Lma: Masumeh, what does your name mean?
Masumeh Makhija: Ima, my name means innocence
ABHI: hi Masumeh, I' m a great fan of urs..............i would be glad if u say hi to me.
Masumeh Makhija: Abhi, Hi, Abhi.
Freako: tell me about urself?
Masumeh Makhija: freako, what is it that u want to know?
Lma: what Saas Bahu Aur Sensex is all about?
Masumeh Makhija: Lma, Saas Bahu Aur Sensex is a comedy based on the current financial scenario of India, BSE, and lots of Saas and Bahu.
Rajat1234: So what are u doing lately...what are ur upcoming films?
Masumeh Makhija: Lma, Saas Bahu Aur Sensex is a comedy based on the current financial scenario of India, BSE, and lots of Saas and Bahu.
Lma: So what are u doing lately...what are ur upcoming films?
Masumeh Makhija: Lma, Hi, my next release is Saas Bahu Aur Sensex and Alibaug, next will follow more two releases.
Som: hey... u were good on television, then why did you dis-continue?
Masumeh Makhija: Som , you had to choose your time. And at the moment, I like films. TV is very time consuming. And I am not in 2 the Saas, Bahu sagas.
Lma: what Alibaug is all about?
Masumeh Makhija: Ima, Alibaug is a story drama about friends. I am playing an alcoholic who has just come out of the rehab centre.
P.S: what Alibaug is all about?
Masumeh Makhija: P.S, Alibaug is a story drama about friends. I am playing an alcoholic who has just come out of the rehab centre.
Salman: what were ur sweet moments while shooting?
Masumeh Makhija: Salman, Farooq Sheikh and Kirron Kher would play pranks, followed by Lilette Dubey and Farooq Saab discussing really funny things on the sets.
Freako: I loved your Chupke Se...You were superb⦠keep it up.
Masumeh Makhija: Freako, thank u very much. I am glad u enjoyed it. Saas Bahu Sensex is by the same director, who is also my sis. I hope u enjoy this too.
Paal: Hi Masumeh, u look extremely hot...looking forward to be same.
Masumeh Makhija: Paal, thank u very much.
Lma: :-) hey I think u were good in Dus Kahaniyaan but where you disappear after that?
Masumeh Makhija: Lma, I have been shooting after that for Saas....which comes in sept, that's completely contradictory to my character in Dus Kahaniyaan.
Lma: what's your mantra for life?
Masumeh Makhija: Lma, I live each day and each moment to have fun and to do things that I want to do only.
Lma: what's your mantra for life?
Masumeh Makhija: Ima, I live each day and each moment to have fun and to do things that I want to do only.
Rajat1234: hello Masumeh, what's your style statement?
Masumeh Makhija: rajat1234, anything in which I am comfortable in and comfortable with is my style statement.
Freako: what kinds of genre would you like to do in future?
Masumeh Makhija: Freako, I have attempted all the genres. I would love to do a Romantic film like DDLJ etc.
Freako: what kinds of genre would you like to do in future?
Masumeh Makhija: Freako, I have attempted all the genres. I would love to do a Romantic film like DDLJ etc.
ABHI: Are you fitness freak?
Masumeh Makhija: Abhi, yes, I am a total fitness freak.
PS: Are you always passionate about acting or it came your way?
Masumeh Makhija: PS, yes, I have always been passionate about acting. Not just that I have been equally fascinated in every aspect of film making.
Freako: why did u chose a film like Padmashree Laloo Prasad Yadav? I didn't find anything good in it except for you.
Masumeh Makhija: Freako, Thank u for the compliment. I guess we all make mistakes.
PS: Are you always passionate about acting or it came your way?
Masumeh Makhija: PS, yes, I have always been passionate about acting. Not just that I have been equally fascinated in every aspect of film making.
ABHI: Who's your fav. actor and, which male actor u r eager to act with?
Masumeh Makhija: Abhi, Aamir Khan.
Freako: what kind of films do u like to watch?
Masumeh Makhija: freako, i am a huge fan action film, freak. So, I have been watching most of the recent Hollywood flicks.
rajat1234: Is Alibaug; is a typical Sanjay Gupta's film?
Masumeh Makhija: Rajat, Not at all. It's quite contradictory as there's not a single action sequence.
Freako: is it true that there is a casting couch in Bollywood?
Masumeh Makhija: freako, casting couch exists for those who want and for others 'NO'.
Freako: is it true that there is a casting couch in Bollywood?
Masumeh Makhija: freako, casting couch exists for those who want and for others 'NO'.
Freako: which kind of music do u prefer to listen?
Masumeh Makhija: freako, i am a person who is totally in tune in my mood. The mood also shows on face.
Lma: what's ur Tashan (style quotient)
Masumeh Makhija: I'm, my Tashan is to make a statement wherever u go.
Freako: how you keep yourself going?
Masumeh Makhija: freako, in a car...
Hi: Do u have someone who is more then friend?
Masumeh Makhija: Hi, I have lots of people who are more than a friend in my life! They are family..........
Freako: why you don't start blogging?
Masumeh Makhija: freako, I intend to. I am just setting up my site. I shall soon have my personal homepage.
rajat1234: who do you think is the promising new comer so far?
Masumeh Makhija: rajat, I like Imraan Khan and Sonam Kapoor are the two promising newcomers.
rajat1234: who do you think is the promising new comer so far?
Masumeh Makhija: rajat, I like Imraan Khan and Sonam Kapoor are the two promising newcomers.
Susmo: do you have siblings?
Masumeh Makhija: Susmo, i do have a sister, her name is Shona Urvashi.
Masumeh Makhija: Hi. It was great chatting to you. Hope u will get to see me on my blog. And keep Chatting on Bollywood Hungama. Source: Indiafm.com Features | 14 Jun 2008 | 12:15 pm
It was one of those rare sunny afternoons in London. The wind whipped my hair with the ferocity. Speaking of jet lags, my head ached with the dull throb of the morning. All this and it was a day when Abhishek Bachchan had to call me up on Ram Gopal Varma's request for a special interview post Sarkar Raj. I wait impatiently for a call from Mumbai. It was 1500 hrs to be precise and my mobile rings. "Hi, can I speak to Mr. Patel please?" I answer, "Yes, speaking." The young husky voice replied, "Hi, How are you? This is Abhishek Bachchan; Ramu just gave me your number and asked me to speak with you. But can I call you in half an hour as I'm just going in for a shot?" Without further ado and running out of words, I answered, "Alright that's fine." The devil on my right shoulder began whispering - If Abhishek doesn't call you in half an hour, he will not call today, just go home and do not wait for his call - and he went on and on like that. The angel on my other shoulder didn't say much, but what he did say, spoke volumes. Abhishek...Abhishek...Abhishek. I smelled the coffee for one last time, packed my bag and stared at my watch in amusement. It was 1730 hrs, time to leave the office. So as I pushed open the door, the devil once again reminded me - Didn't I say, he won't call. Within couple of minutes, I boarded the train back home and then the unthinkable happens. My phone beeps, the text message reads - Can I call up now? - It was Abhishek Bachchan. And just as the screechy doors of the metropolitan line train were about to shut, I rushed out in time and replied back to A.B.Junior saying - Yes. In less than thirty seconds the display screen on my phone reads - Abhishek Bachchan calling. The moment I have been waiting for since a month arrives. I looked, paused, looked again, and answered my phone. Then the fun began and some serious conversation took place, all on the noisy railway platform in Uxbridge.
The film is really doing well in the U.K. Is it right in saying that the Bachchan's have unanimously taken the power in the overseas with Sarkar Raj?
Well, I don't know if that could be a statement but yes, the film is doing well and we're very excited about that. I think from the genre of film that it is, it's almost path breaking that the film should be recording the kind of collections that it has, which is very encouraging and means that the audiences in the U.K. are willing to watch this kind of cinema as well.
It all started from Refugee, then after a long wait came Yuva, Guru, Sarkar and now Sarkar Raj. All the films I have mentioned have got you critical acclaim. But does that mean, the more grim, intense and ferocious side of you is shown, the better you have performed and excelled?
That's actually for you'll to decide but I'd also like to believe that movies like Bunty Aur Babli and Bluffmaster also went on to become successful which were lighter in nature than the films you just mentioned. I think at the end of the day it's the film and its characters which appeal to you and not any one particular genre.
I think at the end of the day it's the film and its characters which appeal to you and not any one particular genre.
Both Ram Gopal Varma Ki Aag and Sarkar Raj have proved that how unpredictable Ramu can get as a director. Is that a good sign for an actor like you who has worked with him before and who might work with him again?
Of course, yes. You know my greatest attraction to him as a director is that he is unpredictable and that he is forever trying to do something different and he throws a lot of challenges at his actors and as an actor you really enjoy being challenged. He is always accused of attempting the same kind of cinema, which I disagree with. I think it's very exciting because at the end of the day the fate of the film at the box office is not in our hands. The only thing we can do is make films, which we believe in.
What would you like to say or convey to some of the critics who've blatantly abused Sarkar Raj the film on a much personal level than a professional one? Isn't this taking it too far?
I believe that everybody has the right to say whatever they want - right or wrong - I've always held critics in very high esteem because as far as an actor is concerned, they give you a ready reference as to what the audience might be feeling. If they don't agree with you or they don't agree with the film, I don't see that's any reason to get personal. But I respect what they say and if I think that the points they've made are valid, I'll definitely incorporate that the next time around. It doesn't really affect me to be very honest that at the end of the day, one critic can make or break a film.
I've always held critics in very high esteem because as far as an actor is concerned, they give you a ready reference as to what the audience might be feeling.
Your death in the film has come as a surprise to many. Was death inevitable?
I don't think so. I just think that initially, when we worked on the script of Sarkar Raj, Shankar Nagre was going to reign throughout the film. But about a month or two into the scripting, Ramu came up with this brilliant idea that Shankar Nagre's character would achieve a different level of respectability in the audiences' eyes, if he dies for the cause he believed in. Not to say that we made him into a martyr but we all felt that it would give him a certain amount of lift in terms of his character if we took this route. And at the end of the day, all that is left is Subhash Nagre and Chikoo.
As I've written in my review that Ramu has left so much space by the end of the film that he might be able to start work on the 'Sarkar Trilogy'. On a personal level, what do you think?
Yeah. I think it'll be interesting. Ramu is a very exciting director and he will do justice to the third part too. As you said that Ramu has left it open-ended and any time he wants to reprise the film, the most exciting part would be to see dad play Subhash Nagre again with the same sheer intensity as he did in both the earlier outings. I really think he was outstanding in Sarkar and in Sarkar Raj he was just awesome. He has managed to outdo the performance he has done in Sarkar and I genuinely feel that this was one of his best performances ever. I'd be more than happy for a fan of this series and of the franchise to see it carry on with 'Sarkar Trilogy'.
I'd be more than happy for a fan of this series and of the franchise to see it carry on with 'Sarkar Trilogy'.
The Bachchans are getting busier day by day. The IIFA's, then Sarkar Raj, then the Sarkar Raj road rally followed up by your Unforgettable Tour. Busy people are happy people, as they say. What say?
(Laughs) Well, the Sarkar Raj rally is happening within India. We've already been to Gurgaon and Delhi. We will be going in a couple of days to other cities within India to promote the film and mostly interact with the audiences and the fans. We had a wonderful experience in Gurgaon with the local media and our fans. It was an overwhelming experience to see that kind of love and outpouring that came from the people. It's a unique idea and we're looking forward to it. And then, mid July, we embark on the 'Unforgettable World Tour' which actually ends up at the end of August in London. That'll be a lot of fun. And we are happy. That answers your second part of the question.
Today completes one week of the films release in the U.K and Sarkar Raj has already grossed more than quarter of a million pounds here. It also marks Ramu's highest ever collections in the U.K too. Any comments?
I am happy for Ramu and the entire team of Sarkar Raj. But it's not only U.K., the collections in certain parts of India are huge too. America's collection is equally good like in the U.K, if not, may be slightly more because it is a larger market. But at the end of the day what counts is that the thriller genre is getting accepted in the U.K, which traditionally, never used to work. U.K audiences tend to favor the more Yash Raj brand of cinema, which is a family entertainer with a lot of song and dance and culture. Very honestly, we the team of Sarkar Raj never expected the film to do much in the overseas market because of these statistics. The figures you've given me comes as a pleasant surprise that it's doing exceeding business in the U.K.
Sarkar and Sarkar Raj once again proved that the Hindi films aren't just about song and dance routine. Do you think more and more films should be made keeping in mind the success of such films?
Most definitely. When Sarkar was first made, it was a songless film. So was Black, for that matter, and they both went on to be very successful films. It just proved that the audience is willing to see films without songs and now Sarkar Raj has proved it again. And that's three in a row for dad too. We can sing to it (laughs).
Sarkar was first made, it was a songless film. So was Black, for that matter, and they both went on to be very successful films. It just proved that the audience is willing to see films without songs and now Sarkar Raj has proved it again.
Sarkar Raj is filled with sepia tones, black and grey shades and haunting background score. The film has continued from where it ended. Don't you think Ramu should've experimented a bit this time around?
I definitely feel that Sarkar Raj picks up and continues its style that Ramu had implied during Sarkar and this was something that needed to be constant in the film which is the way in which you tell the story and the technique used to convey the story. I hope when the trilogy is made, it still doesn't shift its focus.
Working together with the family for the first time would've been a great experience for you. But does it also bring in enough power in your performance when you see your dad and wife opposite you in the same frame?
Yes. Once the camera rolls, you're a professional and that is exactly how you should be. As actors, we can't allow our inter-personal relations to come in the way of our acting. But the minute Ramu said - Cut it - we were family again and it was great fun. Both dad and Aishwarya are actors with whom I've worked in the past and have enjoyed working with, and before Aishwarya and me were together, as a couple, we've done many films. Infact, she is one co-artist I've done maximum films with. So when you are facing Indian Film Industry's finest, you need to have the power to face them.
Aishwarya and me were together, as a couple, we've done many films. Infact, she is one co-artist I've done maximum films with. So when you are facing Indian Film Industry's finest, you need to have the power to face them.
What did you learn from Sarkar Raj, which you did not from Sarkar?
There is so much to take away from a film that it becomes that much more an important and a memorable experience. I took away a lot from the film. First and foremost is that RGV Ki Aag released during the making of Sarkar Raj and I really saw Ramu go through this entire journey of emotions after his film failed, which we all know, and I really learnt the strengths of character that Ram Gopal Varma as a director has. You need to know that this was the same man who was lambasted for making such a film. But I really felt that the media and many others really went after him unfairly. I applaud Ramu for the way he handled that situation and the strength and the conviction with which he continued to believe in Sarkar Raj and didn't panic and still made the film, which he set out to make. It speaks volumes for Ramu as a director and as a person.
From your natural acting in Sarkar we will now see you possess some super-natural powers in Drona.
This is a tag that the media has put on because they have nothing else to write over here besides calling it a film with super natural powers. But it's not a super hero film, contrary to popular belief; it is a modern day fantasy in which I play a King. There is a lot of magic in the film but that doesn't make it super natural. I wouldn't compare it to Krishh too. I am really excited about Drona because I've never attempted something like this before. Infact, something like Drona has never been made in the history of Indian cinema. Therefore, we all are working very hard on it and looking forward for it.
It's not a super hero film, contrary to popular belief; it is a modern day fantasy in which I play a King. There is a lot of magic in the film but that doesn't make it super natural.
Any message you'd like to convey to people who haven't yet watched Sarkar Raj?
Obviously the first message will be - Please go watch it (laughs). Sarkar Raj is a brilliant film in all aspects and credit goes to Ram Gopal Varma. Secondly, fantastic performances from Dad and Aishwarya and if you're my fan... do I have to say anything further? (Laughs)
Whom would you pick to play Chikoo in the Sarkar Raj trilogy?
It'll be nice to see Hrithik Roshan play the role of Chikoo and more interesting will be the Ram Gopal Varma combination with Hrithik. That'll be an exciting watch. Source: Indiafm.com Features | 14 Jun 2008 | 12:12 pm
The men in blue make it a red-letter day! It is the first celebrity episode of '10 Ka Dum'. It was not Salman Khan's friends from the film industry as guests; instead, he had none other than the men in blue, cricketers Yuvraj Singh and Harbhajan Singh to play the game with him. Yuvi, (as Yuvraj is called), with his sixes and Bhajji's (as Harbhajan is called) brought the house down with their banter and quick wit. This of course gives an inkling of what goes on in the Indian dressing room. The fun-filled episode is replete with anecdotes from the two cricketers.
To a question on how many Indians think that "Mard ko dard nahin hotaâ¦" Bhajji replied, "Mujhe to bahut hota hai! When I got the ball on my ribs I was pretending that I was alright but actually I could barely breathe!" he said with a grin. Salman too narrated an incident when a driver drove the car right over his toes and how he pretended it was okay but the foot in question had swollen alarmingly in no time.
When Salman asked the duo how they play untiringly during cricket matches while he gets exhausted just running during shoots⦠Bhajji quickly retorted, "It depends on who you are running after⦠Was it Vivek Oberoi?" Later when Salman asked the two who their favorite actress was, Yuvi wickedly said, "Katrina Kaif" to which a blushing Salman said, "Mine too." But Bhajji tried to be politically correct and said, "Lara Dutta - but I like Katrina too!"
While answering a question on what percentage of Indians are not embarrassed about passing wind in public⦠(Remember, Sameer's 'hawa ka jhonka' in Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam). Yuvi pointed out that this question of course is all thanks to Nandini of Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam! It had Salman turning a shade of crimson.
There's a lot of leg pulling and camaraderie on this episode, that's when the three are not breaking into a bhangra mode at each win! Yuvi with Bhajji's support reached the Rs 1 Crore mark - a first on 10 Ka Dum. It was celebrated in style! The two were there to support charity. Of the Rs 1 Crore they won, the two buddies decided to give 50 Lakh to Salman's Charity Foundation, Rs. 25 lakh to the charity run by Yuvi's mom and Rs 25 lakh to the little boy who was in the news recently and whose plight touched Bhajji's heart. It spurred him to visit the little boy in hospital in Agra.
Catch all the action from the sets, off the cricket field and on it too! A great episode made even more special by Salman, Yuvi and Bhajji. On the first celebrity episode of '10 Ka Dum' on Saturday, June 14 on Sony Entertainment Television. Source: Indiafm.com Features | 14 Jun 2008 | 11:08 am
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Four years back the sexy Neha Dhupia sizzled in a film titled, Julie. Is it any coincidence, that in her next keenly awaited Akshay Kumar-Katrina Kaif starrer, Singh Is Kinng, Neha's character name happens to be 'Julie' yet again!
Blushes Neha, "I don't think the Julie connection will ever leave me! Even today when I go up north and to the small towns, people say, Arre Julie Aa Gayi. Since the association is so strong, I said, why not christen my character Julie!" Was Julie the initial choice? "No! I'm not sure what they had in mind initially! I think it was Rosy," she laughs.
On how she landed herself with a juicy role in the film, Neha reveals, "Vipul's (Shah) office approached me. I was slightly apprehensive initially because I wasn't playing the romantic interest. But I was assured that being the girl of the gang, I'd have a plum part. And because I am a sardar in real life as well that helped!" About Singh Is Kinng, she smiles confidently, "Just watch it! It's an absolute blast."
Singh Is Kinng releases worldwide on August 8, previews in select locations on August 7. It is an Indian Films-Studio 18 release and is produced by Vipul Shah. Source: Indiafm.com News | 14 Jun 2008 | 10:45 am
The Dasavatharam fever is over. Now the hype around Superstar Rajinikanth's next big film Robot has started. According to the latest buzz, director Shankar has changed his cameraman for this big project for the 4th time and now it is Rathnavelu who will be handling the camera for Robot. Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 14 Jun 2008 | 9:00 am
Radhika Sarathkumar, one of the most popular names in tinsel town, will be contesting the forthcoming elections of the powerful Tamil Film Producers Council against its present president Rama Narayanan. A couple of days ago, the council had announced in its notification that new elections will be conducted on July ... Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 14 Jun 2008 | 8:16 am
Gee, what a pair! But there you have it. Saawariya star Ranbir Kapoor is all set to star opposite the twice National awarding winning Konkona Sen Sharma in a film that will be produced by Karan Johar's Dharma Production. This highly unorthodox confluence of a Punjabi heir-apparent and the Bengali ... Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 14 Jun 2008 | 7:01 am
If you are about to enter a Delhi college and are thinking of buying some flashy outfits or those that allow a bit of skin show, beware of committing a fashion faux pax. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 14 Jun 2008 | 7:01 am
Sad but true! If Bollywood producers have their way, they may soon be pitting two love birds against each other. We are talking about Harman Baweja and Priyanka Chopra who may be a couple off screen but may have to battle it out at the box office in a few ... Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 14 Jun 2008 | 6:53 am
First print, then television, then Internet and now radio. Leading film critic and journalist Taran Adarsh has added yet another feather to his cap.
Besides having a daily show on TV ['B Biz'] and also writing daily for Bollywood Hungama [IndiaFM], Taran has exclusively been signed by London's only Bollywood-centric radio station ZEE Radio. The deal means, Taran will give listeners exclusive box-office news, filmi gossip and trade information straight from the tinsel town to listeners.
The slot titled 'Box Office Bulletin', starting later this month, will air daily in 2-3 minute capsules on ZEE Radio⦠Dil Se Bollywood. Besides movie and music reviews, Taran will also look at the box-office status from a year ago in a special called 'This Time Last Year'.
Listeners can also catch Taran's star interviews featured on his ZEE TV show 'B Biz' played back on ZEE Radio's 'Bollywood Beatz' [weekday mornings 09:00] and on 'Star Struck' [weekends 13:00].
Station Manager of ZEE Radio, Raj Baddhan said, "Getting such a prominent personality from Mumbai like Taran Adarsh on ZEE Radio reinforces our policy of bringing the best of Bollywood direct from the film capital to our listeners here."
ZEE Radio is touted as London's only all-Bollywood music radio station broadcasting in London on 558AM between 07:00 - 13:00 and 24 hours a day on DAB digital radio. Online streaming starts soon. Source: Indiafm.com News | 14 Jun 2008 | 6:47 am
If you are about to enter a Delhi college and are thinking of buying some flashy outfits or those that allow a bit of skin show, beware of committing a fashion faux pax. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 14 Jun 2008 | 4:00 am
Bollywood producers are getting into disputes over the titles of their films, which they say are too similar for comfort. A recent case in point is 'Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic' and 'Thoda Life Thodi Magic'. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 14 Jun 2008 | 3:00 am
Gee, what a pair! Ranbir Kapoor of 'Saawariya' fame is set to star opposite two-time National Award winning Konkona Sen Sharma in a film that will be directed by Kajol's cousin. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 14 Jun 2008 | 2:30 am
After years of uneasy silence, movie baron Pritish Nandy has embraced his son Kushan who is all set to direct a film called 'Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram' for his production house. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 14 Jun 2008 | 1:30 am
Much is being said about Shahid-Vidya`s love connection but the duo compulsively deny the rumours, conforming to their single status. But our ever vigilant gossip-sources have found a new angle to the love story, which is turning out to be a love triangle, due to comic actor Sajid Khan`s avid interest in the sultry beauty. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 14 Jun 2008 | 12:26 am
When it comes to facing the camera, celebrities like Kylie Minogue, Brad Pitt and Kate Moss all have one thing in common - they never fail to look their best. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 14 Jun 2008 | 12:26 am
`Harry Potter` creator JK Rowling could not confine herself to just one side of a sheet while scribbling a tale for an auction of story cards this week. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 14 Jun 2008 | 12:26 am
Kamal Haasan has done it yet again with his much awaited magnum opus, Dasavathaaram, that hit the theatres on Friday. The film is such an extraordinary effort by the actor that makes it an excellent blend of politics, science and thrill. Not just for his phenomenal 10 avathaars, but Kamal indeed deserves ovation for the outstanding role of a scriptwriter for the movie. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 14 Jun 2008 | 12:26 am
Priyadarshan`s `Mere Baap Pehle Aap` opened to mixed response at the BO this Friday and Bollywood let out a sigh of relief. The film appears to be a better fare than the recent comic capers flooding the industry with nonsensical melodrama. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 14 Jun 2008 | 12:26 am
Elizabeth Hurley is certain that if Hugh Grant and she had stayed together, they would have had five kids by now. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 14 Jun 2008 | 12:26 am
Two weeks after his debut flick `Woodstock Villa` bombed at the BO, actor Sikander Kher had his hopes pinned on his next movie Summer 2007 that released today. But sadly for Jr Kher, this movie too fails to catch the audience`s imagination. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 14 Jun 2008 | 12:26 am
Director M Night Shyamalan of `The Sixth Sense` is to thrill the Indians this Friday with his latest release, `The Happening`. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 14 Jun 2008 | 12:26 am
Troubled pop star Michael Jackson topped a poll to find the Internet Father`s Day List of bad dads. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 14 Jun 2008 | 12:26 am
Four years back the sexy Neha Dhupia sizzled in the box-office hit, Julie. Is it any coincidence that in her next keenly awaited Akshay Kumar-Katrina Kaif starrer Singh Is Kinng, Nehas character name happens to be Julie yet again! Source: IndiaGlitz.com - News | 14 Jun 2008 | 12:00 am
While shooting in Toronto at the community centre location, Vishal Malhotra (who is playing Shahids friend) thought his shoot for the day was done and he left for the hotel which was about a ten minutes distance from location. Source: IndiaGlitz.com - News | 14 Jun 2008 | 12:00 am
Rahul Bose is the only actor in Bollywood who straddles the world of professional rugby as well as acting. Source: IndiaGlitz.com - News | 14 Jun 2008 | 12:00 am
Percept Picture Company is all set to start work on the first of the three-film deal they have recently signed with Emraan Hashmi. The film, to be directed by Shamim Desai, has been tentatively titled RAFTAAR and co-stars Aditya Pancholi, Esha Deol and Neha Dhupia. The film is budgeted at Rs. 25 crores.
Percept is all set to start a new trend in film-making. They will be taking the entire crew, barring the leading ladies, of the film to Maldives for a trial shoot. Another reason for this week-long trip is to get the cast and the crew familiar with each other. This trial shoot will help PPC to know if everything will fall in place when they actually start shooting the film in Maldives in September. This trip will cost Percept Rs. 1.5 crores. Source: Indiafm.com News | 13 Jun 2008 | 6:05 pm
Bollywood production house UTV is all set to bring out a comic book based on Mithun Chakraborty's character Jimmy in 1980s hit 'Disco Dancer' and it will soon hit the Indian market. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 13 Jun 2008 | 5:02 pm
National award winner Thilakan, who is to play a key role in a Malayalam film to be shot in Canada and North America, says he is not getting a Canadian visa because of insufficient funds in his account. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 13 Jun 2008 | 5:00 pm
This can probably be touted as one of the biggest landmark deals in the Indian Music industry, which has seen a resurgence over the past few months. According to reliable sources, music label major T-Series, run by music baron Bhushan Kumar, has acquired the music rights for 20 forthcoming films of UTV Motion Pictures at a whopping Rs. 27.50 crores, in what is arguably the biggest music deal in the industry.
Some of the major titles include Dilli 6 of Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra starring Abhishek Bachchan and Sonam Kapoor at Rs. 5 crores, Main Aur Mrs Khanna starring Salman Khan and Kareena Kapoor at Rs. 6 crores. It is learnt that two films starring Shahid Kapoor were closed at Rs. 3.5 crores each.
UTV Motion Pictures is one of India's largest integrated film studios and has had a record year at the box office in the current year, with films like Jodhaa Akbar and the critically acclaimed Aamir in recent times. The studio had ventured into the music business by launching its own label UTV Music with Jodhaa Akbar, however, had Sony BMG distributing Aamir and with this partnership has possibly entered into a strategic relationship with the leader in the industry, T-Series.
Music has been an integral component of Bollywood not just in terms of content, but indeed in marketing of the film and getting an encouraging opening. When Bollywood Hungama contacted T-Series to confirm and ask if their marketing initiatives had resulted in this acquisition, they refused to comment. We will be tracking this alliance and will have more for you very soon. Source: Indiafm.com News | 13 Jun 2008 | 4:08 pm
Gee, what a pair! But there you have it. Saawariya star Ranbir Kapoor is all set to star opposite the twice National awarding winning Konkona Sen Sharma in a film that will be produced by Karan Johar's Dharma Production.
This highly unorthodox confluence of a Punjabi heir-apparent and the Bengali bohemian is being directed by Ayaan Mukherjee who's a cousin of Kajol. Ayaan has assisted Ashutosh Gowariker in Swades and Karan Johar in Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna.
Says a source, "It wasn't so much because Ayaan was Karan's pal, Kajol's cousin. It had more to do with Ayaan's script than anything else that clinched the deal. The minute Karan read it he fell in love with it."
But aren't Ranbir and Konkona coming together like the synthesis of Venus and Mars?
"That's exactly the point. In this Mumbai-based romance about urban relationships, the director needed a pair that seems incompatible. The film is about seeking a level of compatibility in a world gone distinctly out of control."
Apparently, when Ranbir and Konkona heard the script, they immediately fell in love with the script. Now all they've to do is fall in love with one another on screen. Source: Indiafm.com News | 13 Jun 2008 | 3:36 pm
After investing $1 billion in Hollywood projects, Reliance BIG Entertainment (RBE) is expanding its footprint in India as well. It has acquired theatrical and other rights of T. Series' much talked about film 'Karzzz' for Rs.350 million. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 13 Jun 2008 | 3:31 pm
They have done only one film together. But that happens to be a cult film. Even today, millions of people stay glued to the T.V. each time Andaz Apna Apna unleashes its hilarious linesâ¦. âAap purush nahinâ¦.mahapurush hainâ¦.â Or âCrime Master Gogo hai naam mera⦠aakhen nikaal kar gotiyan khelta hoon main.â Well, Salman and Aamir Khan will be seen together once again. No, not on big screen, but yes Aamir will be a celebrity guest on Salman's game show 10 Ka Dum on Sony TV. Now, wouldn't that be a spectacle!
Recently, Aamir along with nephew Imran Khan shot for an episode way past midnight at a Mumbai studio. An executive from the PR agency handling the show confirmed this news. The episode will be aired in July (maybe matching the July 4th release date of Aamir Khan Production's next Jaane Tuâ¦Ya Jaane Na). Unlike others, Aamir has made rare appearances on TV reality shows. The first one was for Amitabh Bachchan's Kaun Banega Crorepati and then more recently on Little Champs.
There had been reports in a certain section of the media that the song 'Pappu Can't Dance' in Jaane Tuâ¦Ya Jaane Na is based on the bachelor life of Salman Khan. Aamir had vehemently denied the report by saying, âIn fact, Salman dances better than me and the song is most certainly not based on him.â Film's director Abbas Tyrewala had clarified that if the song makes fun of anyone then it is that of Aamir Khan for it has a reference to 'Papa Kehte Hain Bada Naam Karega'.
Now, wouldn't it be fun if Salman actually dances to Pappu⦠and Aamir and Imran follow suit! What do you say? Source: Indiafm.com News | 13 Jun 2008 | 3:28 pm
Gorgeous and sizzling Shamita Shetty made her debut into Bollywood with the Yash Raj Films Mohabbatein. Though her career graph as an actress has not been very fascinating after that, Shamita has surely has impressed the audiences with her item numbers.
The now she will been seen doing the same in Hari Puttar - A Comedy Of Terrors.
Bollywood Hungama was in conversation with Shamita Shetty, where she spoke about Hari Puttar, her sister and her upcoming films.
What is this song about?
This is a fun filled, peppy Punjabi number, basically a very groovy dance number
How did the song happen?
Well, the producer of this film is a very dear friend of mine. He came to me with this concept, it was very well organized and well prepared with the idea and the entire concept of the song, and they approached me with a mock video, which I totally loved. I also loved the song, it's really good and will be a hit amongst the listeners.
How was your experience while shooting for the video?
The experience was really good. I enjoyed my self a lot. It's not a hard core choreographed song so we were not under any kind of pressure and thus enjoyed our selves a lot.
How much do you think does a promotional song help a film?
I think the promotional song concept is really "in" right now and even big banners these days include promotional songs in their film and I think such songs do help in leveraging the film.
So, this song will be called an item number.
I don't understand what the definition of an item number is and how people tag a particular song as an item song. All I know is that this is a special song in the film which I am glad to do.
A small kid, Zain Khan is sharing the screen space with you in the song, how was your chemistry with the kid?
(Laughs) Well the chemistry is good. Zain is really good, a good dancer and the thing I like about him is that he is not at all camera conscious; he is a dynamite when the cameras are rolling. I am not working with him in the film but as much I saw him performing in the video, one can definitely make out that he is a great performer.
We haven't seen Shamita on screen since a long, when will we get to see her again? What projects are you working on?
Well, I wish I could sit here and predict my future and tell you when I am coming in which film but frankly speaking I don't have any thing right now in my hands but I am waiting for a nice and exciting script.
We have heard that you are coming out with your own production house.
Yes, we are coming out with our own production house probably next year so right now I am concentrating more on it.
Your sister Shilpa has been in news since quite a long time after winning the Big Brother title and the rumors of her getting married soon?
I think my Shilpa deserves every bit of success that she has gained recently and I am very happy for her and no, she is not getting married, we will definitely let you know when she plans it. Source: Indiafm.com Features | 13 Jun 2008 | 3:25 pm
Alcohol, milk, coconuts and fruits were offered to self-professed atheist screen god Kamal Haasan here Friday by thousands of crazy fans as Tamil movie 'Dasavathaaram', reputedly the costliest film to be made in India, opened in over 100 screens. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 13 Jun 2008 | 2:31 pm
What happens when two legends of Indian cinema come face to face? For a change we are not talking about Big B or SRK, but this time the men in question are Megastars Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth.
Kamal Haasan's mega project Dasavathaaram (Tamil Version) opens across cinema halls today and the film is being talked about, as it's the first time ever in the history of cinema that an actor would be seen in 10 different roles. Phew!!! Now that's quite a feat.
A special screening of this Tamil flick was held in Chennai yesterday and present at this screening was none another than superstar Rajinikanth. Needless to say, both Rajini and Kamal Haasan are considered as Demi-Gods down South and enjoy a tremendous fan following. So what was Sivaji- The Boss' reaction to his colleague's film. According to sources, Rajini was simply bowled over by the film and termed it as 'extraordinary'. With praises coming from none other than Rajini Sir himself, Kamal Haasan must be feeling all the more thrilled.
The magnum-opus which also stars Mallika Sherawat, Asin and Jaya Prada is directed by noted filmmaker K.S.Ravikumar. Bollywood's ace composer Himesh Reshammiya has given the music for this film which is being released with a record number of prints in India. Source: Indiafm.com Features | 13 Jun 2008 | 2:24 pm
NEW DELHI (Reuters) - 'Lage Raho Munnabhai' bagged four trophies on Tuesday at the 54th National Film Awards, announced a year late after legal proceedings dogged the previous edition.
After showcasing his clothes on the ramp like his mother Ritu Kumar, one of India's most well known fashion designers, Amrish Kumar is now making inroads in the music world. He has just come out with an album 'Mummy Daddy Records' that he says is a 'reflection of young India'. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 13 Jun 2008 | 1:01 pm
Washington (ANI): Madonna's younger brother, Christopher Ciccone, has written a book about his pop star sibling, which is set for release next month, publisher Simon & Schuster has announced. The 'Life With My Sister' is co-written by biographer Wendy Leigh and will hit shelves on July 15. Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 13 Jun 2008 | 12:42 pm
London (ANI): A former friend of late Beatles legend John Lennon is set to make a fortune by selling the singer's handwritten lyrics to the anti-war anthem "Give Peace a Chance" for up to 300,000 pounds. Gail Renard was a student in Montreal in May 1969, when Lennon and wife ... Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 13 Jun 2008 | 12:23 pm
London (ANI): Victoria Beckham and Naomi Campbell have shown that their eight-year feud is finally over by working together on a jeans range. Posh Spice announced that the latest design in her dVb denim range has been inspired by the British supermodel, and will fittingly be called 'Naomi'. Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 13 Jun 2008 | 12:12 pm
London (ANI): English singer George Michael has hinted at quitting touring by announcing what are being billed as his "last arena shows in the UK." The singer announced that he would hold two major concerts in London to mark the end of his 25 Live Tour, and also said he ... Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 13 Jun 2008 | 12:03 pm
The Palakkad district unit of the Kamal Hassan Fans' Welfare Association has received the consent of two theatres to donate the collections of the first special show of the Kamal Hassan starrer Dasavatharam to charity. Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 13 Jun 2008 | 12:00 pm
Washington (ANI): Duran Duran star John Taylor has hit out at pop queen Madonna for copying one of their ideas. Taylor accused Madge of having copied their collaboration with Justin Timberlake and super producer Timbaland for her new album. Madonna had teamed up with Timberlake and Timbaland to record songs ... Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 13 Jun 2008 | 11:53 am
'Agg Lage Aaj Kal De Fashion Nu' - Now that's yet another chartbuster track by Pritam which is fast heating up the charts. From the film Haal-e-Dil which introduces three new faces - Nakuul Mehta, Amita Pathak and Adhyayan, this Labh Janjua and Hard Kaur sung number comes with a mix of English, Hindi and Punjabi lyrics and has some great club rhythm in motion.
But are you aware that this song was first offered to Shahid Kapoor who had refused it since he didn't really feel that the song had good enough potential to become a national rage?
Confirms a source attached to Haal-e-Dil, "Yes, Pritam had composed 'Agg Lage Aaj Kal De Fashion Nu' for Shahid's upcoming film Kismat Konnection keeping in mind the young and cool image that the Jab We Met star carries. However, Shahid wasn't too convinced and requested Pritam to compose something else. The composer did oblige and did come up with some other smash hit numbers that would soon be heard in Kismat Konnection."
Talking about the placement of the same song in Haal-e-Dil, the source divulges, "All this while Pritam hadn't forgotten 'Fashion'. He was attached to the song and knew its worth. This was the time when Bhushan Kumar too was looking for a song to be included in Haal-e-Dil. Though he was aware that Anand Raaj Anand, Vishal Bhardwaj and Raghav Sachar had done a good job with their respective songs in the Kumar Mangat film, he was still in lookout of that sure shot chartbuster song which could propel album sales overnight."
"Since Pritam has made many a hit numbers for T-Series in the past, Bhushan didn't hesitate in approaching the composer", reveals the source, "He asked Pritam if he could create a dance number in a jiffy and the young composer was more than happy to hand him over 'Fashion'. Bhushan took an immediate liking to the song and soon Nakuul, Amita and Adhyayan were summoned on the sets to shoot for the dance number. Rest, as they say, is history."
Well, looking at the kind of popularity that 'Fashion' is gaining, one wonders if Shahid Kapoor is ruining the missed opportunity. With due respect to the three newcomers, one thing is for sure that if Shahid would have danced to this Pritam's tune, it would have been a different experience altogether for the viewers! Source: Indiafm.com News | 13 Jun 2008 | 10:58 am
Claiming the filmmaker owes the production company Rs. 12 lakhs, Pritish Nandy Communications has sent Hyderabad-based director Mani Shankar a letter-of-objection regarding the release of the Mani-directed Mukhbiir which is all set for release on June 27.
The letter signed by PNC's chief operating officer Bobbie Ghosh warns Mani Shankar that if the money owed to PNC by Mani is not paid up, PNC will protest against the release of Mukhbiir to various film associations.
But Mukhbiir producer Sudish Rambhotla of the Hyderabad-based company Color Chips is unfazed. "Mukhbiir is not Mani Shankar's property. He isn't the producer. I am. How can Mr. Nandy stop it from release just because Mani owes him money? If the architect owes money to someone you can't stop the owner of a building from entering it."
Continues Rambhotla, "I told Mr. Nandy this. If the company wants to put pressure on Mani, my film can't be a casualty. This letter has larger ramifications. How can the producer be held responsible for the director's liabilities? If tomorrow Mani owes me money should I stop Pritish Nandy from releasing his film?"
Mani Shankar tries hard to conceal his annoyance. "The facts speak for themselves. Mr. Nandy entered into an agreement with me. And I gave him two bound scripts with dialogues. One was a period film Chanakya and the other was a hi-tech thriller called Chip Chor, an ideal vehicle for an actor like Sammir Dattani. Mr. Nandy was supposed to pay me another ten lakhs after receiving the script. I've already narrated the scripts to various actors like John Abraham, Priyanka Chopra and Zayed Khan. Mr Nandy or his daughter Rongita was present during some narrations. I've tried to get both projects started. If for whatever reasons he couldn't get the projects started, there's no provision in our contract for me to refund the money. As a gentleman, he should've requested me to refund the money and take back the scripts. Instead he sends me a letter saying I never fulfilled my agreement, meaning I never gave him the scripts in the first place. This, after I've narrated the subjects to so many actors in the industry. I'm not responsible for the projects not taking off. His actions are not worthy of a man of his stature."
Mani is in agreement with the Mukhbir producer that the film has nothing to do with his differences with PNC. "I'm only a technician for Mukhbiir. I've no equity in it. These are bullying tactics. I'm not bothered at all. This kind of behaviour is common practice in Mumbai. Mr Nandy has no case in any court of law or before any film association. This is happening because I'm not from Mumbai and people in Bollywood think they can bully me. But I'm not losing a day's sleep over this irrelevant matter."
Pritish Nandy responds "Tell me, what option does a producer have when a director takes the money and disappears? We at PNC are not unethical. Mani, I suspect, is a capable director. He narrated his scripts so eloquently. He emailed us two scripts to read. We never bought them. The point is not the money but the attitude. Rs.12 Lakhs is chickenshit. He doesn't even respond to our calls! The Mukhbiir producer Sudhish Rambhotla has his own litany of complaints against Mani. When I spoke to him he was so unhappy. See, there's this alarming trend developing among a certain group of filmmakers who have a name but aren't doing too much work. They come with these ideas, sign a contract and are never to be traced again. This has become a constant problem with middle-rank directors. They take a sizeable sum of money and then live comfortably for a while. And then the producer realizes the script belongs to someone else. Such things happen in our industry because we work more on trust than paper-work. Today creativity is totally irrelevant. Money is all. PNC is here to make movies. I guess we're among the last of the Mohicans." Source: Indiafm.com News | 13 Jun 2008 | 9:39 am
