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Remember, my work in India got me Oscar: Resul PookuttyHe admits that the condition of film technicians in India is "pathetic", but Oscar-winning sound designer Resul Pookutty says he would still prefer staying and working in the country rather than chase international projects.Source: Entertainment News | 24 Mar 2009 | 4:09 pm ''Don't you think that Preity and I make a good pair?" - Vinay Pathak'He came, he chatted, he conquered' is exactly how we would like to describe the multi-talented Vinay Pathak, whose latest release Straight has the cinegoers going 'Straight' to the theatres again and again! He was on Bollywood Hungama's Celebrity Chat, talking all about Straight and much, much more! Here are the exclusive chat excerpts: Vinay Pathak: Hello Friends. This is Vinay Pathak here... only on BOLLYWOOD HUNGAMA!!!!! Vishal: hi...I'm ur big fan...i liked ur movie Dasvidaniya very much...n Bheja Fry was awesome... what can we expect from Straight? Vinay Pathak: Vishal, another film high on entertainment... U must catch it :-) Vishal: hi...Iâm ur big fan...i liked ur movie Dasvidaniya very much..n Bheja Fry was awesome... what can we expect from Straight? Vinay Pathak: Vishal, another film high on entertainment.. U must catch it :-) Sidrox: What was your childhood ambition? Is it fulfilled? Vinay Pathak: Sidrox, when I was young, I wanted to be a teacher. I am still fascinated by that profession, though it's never too late! Shifa: hiii Vinay!!!!!! What have been the reviews that you have received so far? Vinay Pathak: shifa, the reviews have been damn good and encouraging. I saw it last nigh with apna junta , who also loved the film. I'm grinning till now :-) Vishal: hello sir. I'm ur big fan ...ur movie Bheja Fry was awesome...which are ur next projects after Straight? Vinay Pathak: Vishal, SRK is scheduled to May end. Then, It cud be followed by Raat Gayi baat Gayi., Mumbai Cutting, Pappu Can't Dance Saala and Mumbai Chaka Chak. Bunty: Hi Vinay, don't you think movie 'Straight' is too bold for Indian audience? Vinay Pathak: Bunty, its out in the theatres. Y don't u check 4 yourself! Lets not underestimate the Indian audience; they understand diversity, variety and quality. So, letâs not underestimate them Prashant: I love Preity Zinta. Sir, how she is according to you? Vinay Pathak: prashant, I think Preity is ABSOLUTELY WONDERFUL and talented as well. I cant wait to do a film with her soon. Don't u think that we make a good pair!? Tams: You know sir Straight has not released in our city...So I have to see it on CD...You people are against piracy but what should I do in such a condition??? Vinay Pathak: tams, what city do u live in? Sidrox: How was it portraying a gay protagonist in Straight, is this ur toughest role ever? Vinay Pathak: Sidrox, any role with complexity and many layers are a challenge to portray. Gay or Straight, is one of the most colourful and interesting characters I have portrayed. XYREO: straight seems like a film that pokes fun at homosexuality.... did u even think if the film will affect that section of people? Vinay Pathak: xyreo, I strongly suggest and request u NOT to make judgements like that b4 seeing the film. How would u no that when it comes it to an alternative lifestyle like homosexuality, STRAIGHT is the most compassionate and sensitive film 2wards this subject. If u see the film, u will realise what I am talking about. For the records, STRAIGHT is about Homosexuality alone. Its about Homophobia. I think u have more than one reason to see this film. Do let me know ur reaction. Rania: Which is your favourite role till now? Vinay Pathak: Rani, a very role that I do , I try to give my all. Hence, they are all my favourite. Else I would not have done them. Bharat Bhushan takes the cake. Coz; He was the turning point. Sidrox: hello sir, you have created ripples in Bollywood with ur roles and unconventional looks, do u think destiny also played its part? Vinay Pathak: sidrox. ALWAYS. Tams: You seem to be getting younger day by day...Whats the secret sir??? Vinay Pathak: Rania, that I am a VEG and a teetotaller. And I do yoga, ayurvedic, lifestyle, VEGAN, and the happiness within 'with a little tinge of mania for cinema. Try it..it helps. Tams: You seem to be getting younger day by day...Whats the secret sir??? Vinay Pathak: Rania, that I am a VEG and a teetotaller. And I do yoga, ayurvedic, lifestyle, VEGAN, and the happiness within 'with a little tinge of mania for cinema. Try it..it helps. Don Kills: R U Doing Bheja Fry 2 ? Vinay Pathak: Don, I am doing Bheja Fry 2. Mellisa: did u feel that u should be given the role of SRK in RAB NE.? Vinay Pathak: mellisa, I respect your feelings. Thanks Sidrox: are u also venturing into full-fledged production? Vinay Pathak: sidrox, no production is half fledged. Every movie that I make will be full fledged. Mitesh: on what basis r u selecting / signing your movies? Vinay Pathak: mitesh, a strong story, interesting one, with a definite beginning and the end and an exciting character to support that. A good director will act as a cherry on the top. Norma jean: a wise man once said, you are only as good as your last role. What are your views on this? Vinay Pathak: Norma, the wise man was really wise. Paki: I think you are a terrific actor Vinay Pathak: Paki, thank u so much. Pls spread that rumour. ALi: Hi Vinay, I am a cinema lover and I go through the movies from every corner of the world. I admire your work a lot, I would suggest you to step up in world film fraternity and believe me your work will be appreciated. Has any international project come to you yet? Vinay Pathak: ali, what do u mean by an international project? Do u think that Indian films are not international? priya64: Iâ m looking forward to seeing ur next movie straight... what made u take up that kind of role? Vinay Pathak: priya, it as challenging, exciting and fun. And I know tow cud I say no to something like that hat u r gonna love it. Vinay Pathak: Hi Friends...Thank u for the conversation. And ur warm encouragement. pls go catch up with STRAIGHT. U will be thoroughly entertained, Its My Promise to u:-) Adieu, Astala Vista, Bye Bye ...Dasvidania...Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 24 Mar 2009 | 3:19 pm "Slumdog Millionaire didn't touch me personally" - Aamir KhanBollywood A-lister and Padmashree awardee, Aamir Khan, joined CNN's special edition of 'TALK ASIA' filmed in front of a live studio audience in Mumbai, where he shared with host Anjali Rao his opinion on leading Bollywood actors, his sentiments on the Mumbai terror attacks and more. CNN 'TALK ASIA' with Aamir Khan will be aired first on Wednesday, March 25 at 1800hrs IST and repeat telecast on Saturday, March 28 at 1000hrs and 2000hrs IST. The program can also be viewed at www.cnn.com/talkasia after the first airing. Bollywood Hungama brings you the exclusive excerpts of the same: It's a real pleasure to have you with us today so thanks so much for making yourself available again. Your most recent film Ghajini is now the biggest Bollywood success ever. Did you have any idea that it would be quite as huge as it is? You can hope that, you can hope that for all of your films. But you can never really tell until you see the film with the audience, how it's going to play with the audience in the theatre. So I think in Ghajini what we set out to make we were in fact able to achieve that. I realized that I'm making a hardcore mainstream film after really long, which is fine. I guess I'm happy to do that. In Ghajini, what we were trying to make a hardcore mainstream film was accomplished. After this movie made it so big, people said that you were the real "King Khan". And that you'd kicked Shahrukh off his perch because he appeals to the masses but you've managed to do this thing that loads of actors would love to do. In that you've had both critical and commercial success in spades. How do you do that? How do you stop from being pigeon-holed in one box or another? Well, you know I just do work which excites me and which I enjoy doing. I just do work which makes me happy. And I have absolutely no intentions of kicking Shahrukh off his pedestal. Though I have to say I don't think he ever was on it. (Audience laughs) but in my opinion the actor who I really look up to is Mr. Bachchan (the elder?) Mr. Amitabh Bachchan. He is someone who's work I really like and he's a fantastic actor and the kind of stardom that Mr. Bachchan has seen none of us can ever hope to see. So for me he's the guy. I have absolutely no intentions of kicking Shahrukh off his pedestal. Though I have to say I don't think he ever was on it. Good Lord, I hope thinking and looking at your work out doesn't bring back too many painful memories for you, I mean were there not days you just went "oh for a goodness sake no movie is worth this hell?!" It was tough, it was really tough, and actually there's a joke in my family and friends, when you want to get Aamir to do something, make a movie around it and he'll end up doing it. So I never thought I would ever train, it's not something I'm in to, but when I had to do it for the film I just went all out, did the best I could. It was really painful and it was really tough and when I look at myself like I was the other day looking at the photographs you know how it began and then what I saw I couldn't believe it, I just couldn't believe. So when I think about it now, it just seems like a distant dream, because in the last eight months I haven't trained, because for the new film that I'm doing, my director looked at my physique and said now I want you to lose all of this. So I had to work towards losing it all for the new film that I'm shooting for. You're not only a major actor but you also had your directorial debut in Taare Zameen Par. What was it like for you switching to the other side of the camera, at the same time obviously and starring in it? It was tough, mainly because I wasn't meant to direct the film to begin with. So I kind of jumped in a week into the shoot. I just went with my gut. Actually I didn't even have time to think, quite honestly. And now when I look back I realize that I had reached a point in my career where I had wanted to direct a film for really long, and the pressure kept keeping me away from it. The fact that it happened this way didn't give me a chance to think and decide, you know. I just jumped into it because I had to, and I ended up making the film, you know, to the best of my abilities. So I didn't really, you know maybe if I hadn't done that I wouldn't be directing for the next 10 years more, I don't know. So I guess I'm glad it happened finally because I'm happy with the way the film turned out and I'm happy with the way the kind of impact it had on people. Lagaan was nominated for an Oscar back in 2001. And that movie was very much credited at the time with putting Bollywood on the map. How important do you think it is though for Indian movies to be recognized by the West? Lagaan was made for an Indian audience. That it was appreciated and travelled across the world, and people you know, from different places loved the film, it was great and we were all happy about it, we were thrilled. But if we hadn't done that, it wouldn't have mattered as much as what the Indian audience thought of it. If you know what I'm trying to say. So up till now, we have all been making films for our own audience, which is really large and healthy. And we haven't really looked at an international audience. We haven't thought of entertaining them, or attempting to entertain them. I think the day we do decide to do that I think we'll do alright. We have all been making films for our own audience; we haven't really looked at an international audience. Slumdog Millionaire was a huge eye opener, I think, but you know for all the accolades that it got around the world, there were plenty here in India who slammed it. What did you think of it? It didn't touch me personally. Emotionally it didn't do anything for me. And I suspect it is because I am not used to watching Indians speak English. So you know, all these slum kids talking in English, and the cop...I find it very strange...it didn't work for me because of that problem. Slumdog Millionaire didn't touch me personally. Emotionally, it didn't do anything for me. You were extremely vocal in your blog about what was happening when Mumbai was under siege. Just take us through what was going on with you personally during that time. Well it was really devastating. I mean it was like a nightmare, I couldn't believe it was happening. And it was also very shocking to see, you know, the audacity with which these attacks were carried out. All the lives that were lost and so many thoughts going through my head at that time. And it was really sad that... that I mean we live in a day and age today where there all over the world there are people, certain number of people at least, who feel that this is how they want to make a point, or want to be heard, or want to hit back, by killing innocent people. Doesn't make sense to me but I guess, I mean that's how it is, that's how it is in the world today. Certainly you were speaking to the government in part in your blogs as well, by you know, saying not to negotiate with terrorists. But you also seemed quite critical of what the leadership was doing at the time. Is that how you felt? No, I wasn't actually. I wasn't critical of the leadership at that time. Because I think at that time they were doing the best that they could. But I am critical about, how a number of the leaders have been using religion and cast in our politics for decades now. And that only, you know, polarizes people. It spreads a lot of poison and negativity in society. Your response to the Mumbai terror strikes, sort of threw back memories of your 2006 movie Rang De Basanti hit, which was, you know, very political, widely hailed as really getting the youth of this country involved in politics. Is it important to you as well to make movies that aren't just about candy floss? Yes of course. I think that the kind of person I am, I get attracted to certain kind of stories. So I can't help it, I mean, you know. A film like a story like Rang De Basanti comes to me and it actually inspires me first. You know I feel, Wow, this is something I wanna be part of. And you know so first it affects me. I am critical about, how a number of the leaders have been using religion and cast in our politics for decades now. There's a certain formula that works very well in Bollywood. But back in 2001, Lagaan completely went against any of that formula, you know. It was a film that nobody wanted to take on, a script that nearly died. It was more than three and a half hours long, full of you know, a cast of relative unknowns, compared to you. And yet the film was a smash hit... Now you obviously took on that project because you believed that it would work. But did other people think that you were just bonkers? Yeah. Well they think that all the time actually. Every time I start a film they're like hmmm this time he's going to really mess it up. Everyone who knew me was like, 'He's nuts, he's really done it this time. And then when I did Dil Chahta Hai also, or you know, even Rang De Basanti, Taare Zameen Par they were like hmm childcare and education, ok. But it's also exciting, you know when you pick things which are unusual and difficult and are breaking the rules of mainstream cinema. Nobody would produce Lagaan. So in the end after a bit of convincing, you had to step in and do it. But it sounds like there were major issues with it. I mean, there was one scene where you had to find 10,000 villagers from somewhere and the town wasn't even built yet. As a producer, you would've had to handle that, I guess. So just talk me through some of the hurdles that you had to get over to do this movie. Well, Lagaan was especially difficult film to do. I mean period and very large cast, so many actors you know. And just getting everyone ready for the first shot at eight o'clock was, you have to reach there at four and start getting ready it was quite insane. In the morning? In the morning, yes. And the cricket was really tough. Because you know the ball and the bat doesn't do what you want it to do. And the 10,000 day was a big one because we had to put a lot of teams, went into villages, and said listen we're shooting a film, and a lot of these villagers haven't seen a film in their lives. Let alone act in it. My parents were really against me getting into films. But I don't usually listen to people. After the break, as Bollywood actors go, Aamir puts the private in private life, still that doesn't mean that we're not gonna be getting personal. The house that we saw in that clip, you spent a lot of time there as a kid, apparently. Well not that house in particular but in Panchgani, in that hill station. What kind of a childhood did you have? Well, fairly standard actually. I think my parents looked after us very well. We had a fairly sheltered life. I mean my parents were really against me getting into films. I come from a film family. My father and uncle were both filmmakers. And I faced hell at home. It was like there's no way you're getting into films. But I don't usually listen to people. I just do what I feel like. And then when they realized... actually it was more because they were concerned for me, you know. Every parent is concerned for their children. And they had been through this line and this profession is so uncertain. You know one day you're up there, the next day you're nobody and...it's a really harsh profession. When you look back at your transformation over those years. And when you look at those clips from the 80s and 90s do you go you know what I'm really proud of that or do you go 'Oh God! I just want to die'? I get totally embarrassed. Usually you know when I finish a film within six months I feel eh, this is not good enough. This is where we've messed up, and we could've done this, and I've grown so much as an actor and I can do this much better now. I don't like my work usually after some time, I don't like it anymore. That's gonna be tough, because you're gonna keep seeing it? Sooner I just don't see it. I stop seeing my work. I see it a lot when I'm on the film and you know, I see it with the audience, while it releases, that's one thing I do for all my films. I watch them with the audience. And the audience don't know I'm in the theatre. When I finish a film within six months I feel eh, this is not good enough. How do they not know? They don't know because they're already in there. And then I walk in, I stand at the back, I go into the projection room, those windows there, peep out and I can see everyone, I can hear them. So you can see them shifting in their seats if they don't like the scene. You can actually see that happen. So when the film is not working, you'll suddenly hear a lot of chairs you know, chair sounds...shifting, coughing, so you know you're losing the audience there. I see it with the audience, while it releases, that's one thing I do for all my films. Did you go in to the projection room and watch movies that didn't do so well like Mela and Mann? Yes I did. Yes I did. It's heartbreaking. It's really heartbreaking. But I think that's what I'm making these films for, you know. I want, I'm making for the audience and I wanna be there to see how they like it. And if they don't, I wanna be there to see that. If you had to name a characteristic of yours that's gotten you through, that's helped you to make it to be as big a star as you are now, what would it be? I think for me it's been, I've always done what makes me happy. I realized very early in my career that you know, whenever I'm taking a decision which I think is the correct decision, or I ought to be doing this. Whenever I've done that, I've failed miserably. Whenever I thought I was being smart, I've ended up making an ass out of myself. But whenever I did what I felt like doing, it worked for me. No matter how ridiculous it may have seemed to others and no matter how impractical it may have seemed... but whenever I followed my heart and done what makes me happy, it's worked for me.Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 24 Mar 2009 | 3:15 pm Bollywood film festival opens in PolandBollywood star Shah Rukh Khan is already a household name in Poland.Source: Entertainment News | 24 Mar 2009 | 3:15 pm Asin to endorse Big BazaarDownload image as wallpaper Asin, the southern sensation is surely making hay while the sun is still shining on her. After having been chosen recently as the brand ambassador for 'Fairever', the famous fairness cream, Asin has now been roped in by the retail major Future Group to endorse 'Big Bazaar'. Even though the official announcements are yet to be made about this deal, reliable sources claim have it that she will be sharing the spotlight with Indian cricket captain, M.S. Dhoni in the commercials that are yet to be shot. Life is looking totally up, up and more up for this Ghajini chic!Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 24 Mar 2009 | 3:01 pm Pookutty rues sad state of technicians
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 24 Mar 2009 | 2:22 pm Triple failure of CC2C, Billu, D-6 alienating audience from Bollywood?I am pained. First quarter of 2009 is turning out to be one of the worst seasons for Bollywood in the current decade. At least in the earlier years, there weren't too many movies releasing at the beginning of January (Bollywood jinx factor) and then late February/early March (school/college examinations). However, 2009 has been an exception with not one, not two but multiple films releasing practically every week. Not worrying at all about the Board examinations being underway and the target audience i.e. youth keeping away from the theaters, Bollywood is witnessing dozen odd releases practically every month. I am pained because the result has been hardly heartening, as evidenced in the fate of five films that released over the weekend gone by - Firaaq, Aloo Chaat, Barah Aana, Straight and Lottery. None of the films has done well at the box office and performance of some of these films has been pathetic to say the least. Collective theater occupancy of these five films has been less than 50% if one looks at the opening and poor reviews and reports have further marred the prospects. I am pained because Firaaq got some good critical response coming its way but collections were shocking all over. The film has hardly been seen by the audience which otherwise could have helped it grow with word of mouth. Other than Firaaq though, none of the other films could even gather any good reviews. While Straight and Aloo Chaat have been ripped apart by most, Barah Aana has seen somewhat better response from the critics but equally poor response from the audience. Frankly, there were hardly any out there who had even heard of this Naseeruddin Shah, Vijay Raaz and Arjun Mathur starrer. As for Lottery, it didn't see a decent multiplex release and worse, wasn't even reviewed by the critics. I am pained because there is something really going wrong with the film releases this season. And there is one simple reason for this - 'Money saved is money gained'! Audience is looking at saving money for a film that seems promising from the very onset. On a regular weekend, at least a couple of these five films could have taken a favorable start. However, complete disinterest of audience in movies is stemming from the fact that they are just not in mood of watching small films at theaters. I am pained because based on my conversations with 'aam junta' as well as industry insiders, I have realized that the absolute turnaround amongst audience when it comes to Bollywood flicks has stemmed from the triple failure of highly hyped films like Chandni Chowk To China, Billu Barber and Delhi 6. 'Aisa lagta hai jaise sabka Bollywood films se vishwas hi uth gaya hai' - is the sentiment amongst all. When one film is a hit, audience loves to visit theaters and watch the next one in subsequent week. And so on and so forth. This was evident in August/September last year when success of Singh Is Kinng followed by Bachna Ae Haseeno had made way for multiple small and medium budget films week after week like Rock On, Welcome To Sajjanpur, A Wednesday, Phoonk, 1920 etc. The free for all run of hits was too good to be true but that was a fact. Of course each of the films, were well made as well but the fact is that audience was 'willing' to spend money in theaters week after week even as the term 'recession' was making a loud announcement all over. The subsequent months saw a dip with the failure of Karzzzz but 2008 end saw a grand revival with huge blockbusters like Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi and Ghajini. Audience was willing to give Bollywood another chance but as stated earlier, the biggies in Jan/Feb 2009 spoilt the show and it was back to square one. It's not the audience to be blamed, it's the films! Junta has given its verdict loud and clear. It has to be really very high quality films that have to arrive at theaters to entice audiences back. And it won't suffice to see just one or two good films coming in; there have to be a line up of interesting projects. No wonder, the months of May/June become crucial because there is a lot riding on films like Kambakkth Ishq, Kaminey, Luck, Love Aaj Kal, Life Partner, Shortkut - The Con Is On and Kal Kissne Dekha, each of which would be arriving one after another. Here is looking forward to a better season ahead with some quality projects that would make the audience wake up to the magic of Bollywood. Once again! Fingers crossed!Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 24 Mar 2009 | 2:06 pm Check out: Boman Irani's look in 3 IdiotsOne of the most anticipated films of this year is Rajkumar Hirani's 3 Idiots. The film stars Aamir Khan, Kareena Kapoor, R.Madhavan, Sharman Joshi and Boman Irani in lead roles and is loosely based on Chetan Bhagat's bestseller '5 Point Someone'. Not much is known about the film or the characters which the actors portray as the makers are trying to keep everything hush-hush. However we came across this picture of Boman Irani taking a break while shooting for 3 Idiots. Boman, who is known to experiment with his looks (be it as the strict 'Dr.Asthana' in Munnabhai M.B.B.S or the conniving Lucky Singh in Lage Raho Munnabhai) is seen in a different get-up (with curly grey hair) this time around. While not much is known abut Boman's role in the film, one may assume that he plays a character similar to that of Head of Department Prof. Cherian in the best-selling bookSource: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 24 Mar 2009 | 1:56 pm All you wanted to know about Aa Dekhen ZaraAlmost every Friday there are films that are released and with the multitude of films coming up it just becomes harder to keep the one you like in mind, not to mention the clutter that almost blocks out the good ones. Aa Dekhen Zara seems to be one of those films that leaves' the audience gasping after a fast paced race. Starring Neil Nitin Mukesh and Bipasha Basu, the film, is all set to not just raise temperatures but even set hearts racing with Bips playing a DJ and Neil as a photographer with a unique camera. However knowing this dilemma of choosing the film you wanted to watch fully well, Bollywood Hungama brings to its users a unique page dedicated to informing you about all you ever wanted to know about the film Aa Dekhen Zara. Preview Aa Dekhen Zara is a fast-paced, romantic musical thriller with some great edge of the seat action. Can Ray change his date with fate? Aa Dekhen... More... Music Reviews Title song 'Aa Dekhen Zara', which has it's origin in Sanjay Dutt's Rocky and has been recreated for this film, is heard in two versions. While one of these... More... News - Neil and Bipasha's join the band ADZ-The Rising - Eros plans to launch Aladin game - "I am an avid gamer" - Neil Nitin Mukesh - Neil Mukesh records title track of Aa Dekhen Zara - Neil-Bipasha starrer now titled Aa Dekhen Zara Features - "Aa Dekhen Zara is a musical thriller" - Neil Nitin Mukesh - "I play a tomboy sort of girl who has indigo coloured hair & a tattoo" - Bipasha - Exclusive Promo Preview: Aa Dekhen Zara Gallery Wallpapers Movie Stills - Movie Screensaver: Aa Dekhen Zara - On the Sets: Aa Dekhen Zara - First Look: Aa Dekhen Zara Broadband Title Song (Aa Dekhen Zara) Mohabbat Aapse (ADZ) - Neil Nitin Mukesh speaks about 'Aa Dekhen Zara' - Gazab (Aa Dekhen Zara) - Rock The Party (Aa Dekhen Zara) - Promo 1 (Aa Dekhen Zara) - Neil - Bips Rocking Performance - Gazab (Aa Dekhen Zara) - Audio Release Of 'Aa Dekhen Zara'Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 24 Mar 2009 | 12:48 pm "We are trying to get the Slumdog Millionaire team to IIFA 2009" - Andre Timmins2000 London, 2001 Sun City, 2002 Malaysia, 2003 Johannesburg, 2004 Singapore, 2005 Amsterdam, 2006 Dubai, 2007 Yorkshire, 2008 Bangkok. It's been nine years of unlimited fun and entertainment where you saw the world's hottest and the most sought after acts on stage, where you witnessed your most loved Bollywood celebrity taking home their most deserved award, where you stood outside the red carpet braving the cold, hot and sometimes rainy weather only to get that once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet your favourite celebrity in person, and where you adored the beautiful colourful flowing gowns and the more beautiful faces that compliment them. What started off as a one night affair at the Millenium Dome (now called the O2 Arena) nine years ago is now a three day weekend filled with activities, events, business tie-up's, world premieres and the biggest awards night of the Hindi Film Industry to take place outside our Indian soil. In the year 1988, Wizcraft International Entertainment was born. Come 2000, IIFA was born. And the ones to give birth are a strong, dedicated and a supportive team of the three Wiz Kids - Andre Timmins, Sabbas Joseph and Viraf Sarkari. Would you have ever in your wildest imagination thought that an ex DJ, a former journalist and an ex night manager of a hotel would've formed a formidable team that gave birth to one of the biggest brands in India called Wizcraft? What's even more interesting is when you get a chance to meet some of the most creative minds from the world of entertainment, you never know what they've got up their sleeves. Such an encounter took place yesterday at the J.W. Mariott where one of the Wiz, Andre Timmins, took some time off from his busy schedule for Bollywood Hungama's London correspondent and UK's Harrow Observer columnist Devansh Patel where we recalled our last chanced encounter at the IIFA Yorkshire two years ago. But more than us remembering our long last chat, we hurriedly get on to the current one as that was sure to take more time with the coffee getting cold. Andre spoke in length about IIFA in its tenth year, the importance of voting for such awards, the global meltdown hitting the IIFA, the brand ambassador Amitabh Bachchan, what makes IIFA different from the rest of the award functions, his plans to rope in the entire cast and crew of Slumdog Millionaire at IIFA 2009, his future plans to take IIFA back to England and a promise - that in IIFA's twentieth year, all the three Wiz Kids will perform on the stage. But before all the above began, the Wiz said those golden words, "Ten years ago, the journey was driven by passion. Ten years later, we have the same passion or may be more". A passionate chat continues.... IIFA is in its tenth year now. A journey worth its wait? (Smiles) Oh yes. When we started off in London in the year 2000, none of us knew, what was in-store for us. Ten years ago, the journey was driven by passion. Ten years later, we have the same passion or may be more. For us, IIFA is very close. IIFA 2000 was a one night affair and was extremely difficult. It was even more difficult for the celebrities then to understand what we were trying to do. Across the board, as the years passed by, we realized that we had a winner on board. It's a win-win situation now. So as we sit back and look, we see that it's benefiting our country, our sponsors and the host country. We have created a home brand called IIFA which we've taken out across the globe today only to get the recognition it deserves. IIFA 2000 was a one night affair and was extremely difficult You've just finished your voting weekend and we hear that it created history. Explain. We've just finished the voting weekend three weeks ago with the first vote cast by Mr. Amitabh Bachchan. Voting is the pulse of the industry. You're right, for the first time we did above 1500 individual votes and it's never happened before in nine years. So that itself gives us the encouragement that we want to go out there and do our best for the industry. There is a buzz out there and people in the industry want to come out and support IIFA. The world is not going through the same win-win situation like you Wiz kids. Has the global meltdown hit IIFA too? From the meltdown perspective, yes, it's been tough. At one point, we were thinking of bringing back the IIFA to India for its tenth year. A lot of people suggested that to us in tough times. But if there is a good product, people will surely back it. That's what we are seeing in the support of our sponsors, support of Star Plus, support of the media, etc. Recession has brought the world to spend their money wisely. I mean, even the Academy had their lowest ever budget for this years Oscars. Even the Academy had their lowest ever budget for this years Oscars And there can't be an interview without the mention of the great ambassador called Amitabh Bachchan. (Laughs) Without Mr. Bachchan, IIFA would not be where it is. His support and passion to the brand is worth saluting. We sometimes get embarrassed because we go to him two or three months prior to the event for his dates. And he surprisingly accommodates us and has been doing it since a decade now. Today I know why people choose different people as ambassadors. For us, he is more of an advisor. He has got so much wealth of knowledge that you have no idea about. When he talks, and when you listen, and follow what he says, you're bang on target and will never go wrong. There has been a lot of debate on award functions being biased. What really makes IIFA different from the rest of them? We are the last in the row. The question is how the industry perceives it. We believe that anything that you do, if you're not honest enough to do it in the right manner and don't have the guts to do it, you'll fail. I remember when I went to invite Anil Kapoor for the IIFA 2000, he said that he would come, and eventually did not turn up in spite of being nominated. The first two or three years, we had a very tough time bringing in the nominees. Now here's what happened. Anil Kapoor won the award that year and we sent the trophy to his house. The next time I bumped into him, he said, "I did not come and I won the award". That's what IIFA stands for. We are unbiased because our process is very different. We have the industry voting. You have to have an international release for you or your film to get nominated. Then it goes for voting. After that, the nominations are put open to the public. Then it goes to the public voting and finally the winners are chosen. There is no jury here. Over 600,000 people vote. 30% vote from America, 25% vote from the UK, the rest from India and the Middle East. IIFA doesn't invite the nominees alone, but the entire film fraternity graces the event. Last year, Shah Rukh Khan won the best actor award even though he doesn't grace the IIFA's. Now is that being biased? This years IIFA are going to take place somewhere in Asia I'm sure lobbying was great fun then? Yes it was. We had the entire team from films like Jodhaa Akbar, Fashion, Rock On, etc. What do the Oscars do? The studios lobby. They keep showing their films to people there. You can't be sitting at home and not contributing. You need to go out and vote. You cannot say that I don't like this government and so I won't vote. At least vote for the one you like. The majority of the people who came and voted this time around were not the stars but the technical teams. We've done the lobbying for the IIFA's, now it's your turn. So how is it to turn green since IIFA Yorkshire? Great. We support the environment in a big way and we're taking it up very seriously. We've done events like Light a Billion lives and plant a billion trees at the Unforgettable Tour. At IIFA Bangkok last year, we planted a tree with the Bachchan family. It's easy for us to endorse this thought provoking message through our celebrities because the world follows them, so why not follow them in their noble cause. We are the first people as far as the awards are concerned to take this cause forward. We want to go out loud and clear - We want to go green. Any international celebrities gracing IIFA 2009? (Laughs) You want me to disclose the venue right? We know where it is. (Laughs) Well, the world will know soon, come April mid week. I can tell my audience that this year's IIFA is going to take place somewhere in Asia. Bollywood has worked with some of Asia's biggest stars in films, and we are trying to get them to the IIFA this year. We are also trying to get the entire cast and crew of Slumdog Millionaire to the IIFA 2009 as it'll be their last award function before their journey ends. We've been getting a lot of feedback from the UK for IIFA to return back next year 2010 to where it all started. Any plans for that? England has always been home for us. While we were promoting IIFA 2000 around the world, I remember the entire anti-approach towards the show being held there. Millenium Dome is now called the O2, the same place where we did our Unforgettable Tour. So we would love to go back to England. In fact, we've got a lot of request from the region that they want to bring IIFA back. But as you know that we've just finished IIFA Yorkshire in 2007, it's too early to decide on taking it back. But we will someday. Anything you'd like to remind people that June is coming...get ready for the IIFA's! I wouldn't like to remind anything. But people like you will. The media, who supports us to get our message across the world should be thanked for this. We've got different ambassadors around the world, whether it's South Africa, UK, America, Europe, etc. We've managed to make friends like you who've spread our love to the people. This goes to everyone out there who've loved us, "Come and support us like you've always done, be a part of the IIFA 2009 and be there in person and enjoy our tenth year." Come and support us like you've always did, be a part of the IIFA 2009 and be there in person and enjoy our tenth year I'm sure we've got great choreographers who can make all the three Wiz kids perform on the stage for the tenth year. (Laughs) Many people ask us in our meeting across different countries - Who does IIFA belong to? And we say - IIFA belongs to the Indian Film Industry. Seeing three of us on the stage is very rare and that too to shake our leg (laughs). The event is so large, that we all have our individual expertise. Viraf, one of the Wiz, has never ever witnessed any of the other events taking place except the main event which is the awards night. But this year, he will be able to see all the events because everything is happening under one roof. In our meeting last week, he said, "It's the first time I'll see the fashion show, it's the first time I'll be at the world premiere." So that's the dedication we all have. I promise that we three Wiz kids will dance in our twentieth year (laughs).Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 24 Mar 2009 | 12:37 pm Sanjay Dutt goes back for 'Luck'
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 24 Mar 2009 | 12:00 pm Rossi issues apology for marrying DeGeneresWashington (ANI): Aussie actress Portia De Rossi has issued an apology for marrying comedienne Ellen DeGeneres in a video spoof that is taking aim at supporters of the same-sex marriage ban in California. The two had tied the knot in AugustSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 24 Mar 2009 | 11:10 am Nagesh admits having problem with Akshay8x10 Tasveer is in the eye of a storm. In fact, the film has been surrounded by controversies from Day 1. There's talk that Akshay Kumar isn't too happy with the film and isn't keen on promoting it. Of course, heSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 24 Mar 2009 | 11:08 am Ravi Teja’s Anjaneyulu launched - Galatta.com
Source: Google News India - Entertainment | 24 Mar 2009 | 11:07 am "Sex is similar to having an eating disorder," RaussellMelbourne (ANI): Controversial comedian Russell Brand, who was in news with fellow prankster Jonathan Ross over the Andrew Sachs row, has claimed that he has had treatment for his sex addiction and has it under control. In fact, he said thatSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 24 Mar 2009 | 11:03 am Sanjay Dutt takes a break from politicsTaking a two-day break from his hectic campaigning schedule, Sanjay Dutt rushed back to Mumbai on Saturday to shoot a song with Soham Shah. It was for the title song in Soham's film Luck devised and designed specially for Dutt.Taking aSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 24 Mar 2009 | 11:03 am Patrick Swayze pays tribute to Natasha RichardsonWashington (ANI): Patrick Swayze, who is battling pancreatic cancer, paid tribute to late actress Natasha Richardson by stating "the world will be a different place" without her. Patrick acted with the late Natasha in the flick ‘Waking Up in Reno’. TheSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 24 Mar 2009 | 10:59 am Aa Dekhen Zara unpluggedAa Dekhen Zara is hardly three days away and the least that the makers want at this point of time is any unnecessary controversy building up. Recently there was a media report about Neil Nitin Mukesh unhappy with the way AaSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 24 Mar 2009 | 10:58 am Madge's fling may doom her adoption plans - Times of India
Source: Google News India - Entertainment | 24 Mar 2009 | 10:57 am Goody’s mum broke down over Mothers Never Really DieLondon (ANI): Late Brit celebrity Jade Goody’s mum Jackiey Budden cried as she read the poem ‘Mothers Never Really Die’ that had been left outside the Big Brother star’s house by a fan. The poem, which had been shortened, was leftSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 24 Mar 2009 | 10:54 am Playboy staff left in the darkNew York (ANI): Staffers at Playboy have no idea about the company’s alleged move from New York to Chicago, according to reports. It was recently disclosed that Playboy is reportedly closing its New York office and packing up for Chicago. ButSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 24 Mar 2009 | 10:49 am Katie Holmes babysits for Victoria Beckham
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 24 Mar 2009 | 10:40 am 'Jade Goody funeral to be a Jade Goody Production'British reality TV star Jade Goody's funeral will be a "Jade Goody Production", publicist Max Clifford said on Monday.Source: Entertainment News | 24 Mar 2009 | 10:38 am Sanjay Dutt goes to Mumbai to shoot song for 'Luck'Sanjay Dutt took some time out from campaigning for the Lok Sabha polls in Lucknow to fly to Mumbai and shoot a song for Soham Shah's "Luck".Source: Entertainment News | 24 Mar 2009 | 10:36 am Goody's mom, hubby working on her funeral plans - Oneindia
Source: Google News India - Entertainment | 24 Mar 2009 | 10:36 am Shreemati heading towards the final lapThe talkie portions of Shreemati are almost over. Shreemati has completed two schedules; one more schedule is planned abroad for the remaining talkie portions and a few songs. Sampath is the director; Upendra has written the story, screenplay and dialogues. ThereSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 24 Mar 2009 | 10:24 am Flashed Yesterday: Sanjay Behl elevated to CEO, Big TV and IPTV - exchange4media.com
Source: Google News India - Entertainment | 24 Mar 2009 | 10:20 am Geetakrishna to direct in Kannada, Tamil, TeluguTelugu director AS Geetakrishna, whose movies Kokila and Keechurallu were superhit in Telugu, is all set for his next venture. His next movie will be done simultaneously in Kannada, Tamil and Telugu. Geetakrishna's movie, which is titled as Coffee Bar inSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 24 Mar 2009 | 10:19 am Kannada film industry faces slump at box officeThe Kannada film industry is going through a rough patch, with even star-studded films biting the dust at the box office while films with newcomers are generating only 10-15 percent opening collections, members of the industry said.Source: Entertainment News | 24 Mar 2009 | 10:06 am Go Indian to go global, fashion editor tells Indian designersIndian designers need to focus more on the country's heritage if they are to make a mark internationally, says eminent fashion journalist Suzy Menkes.Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 24 Mar 2009 | 10:00 am Bollywood film festival opens in Poland - Hindu
Source: Google News India - Entertainment | 24 Mar 2009 | 9:36 am Angelina sparks health fears with 'liquid detox' diet - Oneindia
Source: Google News India - Entertainment | 24 Mar 2009 | 9:26 am Jade Goody to be buried on April 4
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 24 Mar 2009 | 9:20 am Sanjay Dutt rushes back for 'Luck' - Times of India
Source: Google News India - Entertainment | 24 Mar 2009 | 9:02 am Arundati all set to make history - Chennai Online
Source: Google News India - Entertainment | 24 Mar 2009 | 8:19 am Remember, my work in India got me Oscar: Resul PookuttyHe admits that the condition of film technicians in India is 'pathetic', but Oscar-winning sound designer Resul Pookutty says he would still prefer staying and working in the country rather than chase international projects.Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 24 Mar 2009 | 8:01 am Faiz's poetry witnessing revival in India: daughterOne of the most popular contemporary Urdu poets from Pakistan Faiz Ahmed Faiz, known for his sonnets of peace, love, secularism and human suffering, has become a Bollywood peace mascot again. His poetry is being used for a track in the movie 'Sikandar' which is expected to hit the theatres in April.Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 24 Mar 2009 | 8:00 am Kantha Rao statue to be installed in kodad - Express Buzz
Source: Google News India - Entertainment | 24 Mar 2009 | 7:36 am 'Aloo Chaat' is neither funny nor newFilm: 'Aloo Chat'; Director: Robbie Grewal; Cast: Aftab Shivdasani, Amna Sharif, Linda Arsenio; Rating: *1/2Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 24 Mar 2009 | 7:30 am "I'd love to work with Akki again" - Nagesh KukunoorDownload 8x10 Tasveer wallpapers 8x10 TASVEER is in the eye of a storm. In fact, the film has been surrounded by controversies from Day 1. There's talk that Akshay Kumar isn't too happy with the film and isn't keen on promoting it. Of course, he did attend a press conference on Friday night at Marriott along with director Nagesh Kukunoor and Shailendra Singh of Percept, but he isn't going out of his way to endorse the film, like he normally does. "Absolutely untrue," Nagesh tells me, "Frankly, I've stopped reacting to rumours. But I'd like to clarify that there's no truth to it. Akshay watched the film some time back and is gung ho about it. I'd love to work with him again." But there were problems initially. "Yes, Akshay had a tough time to on the first four days, I won't deny that. But, later, when he got used to my style of working and also realised what I wanted, there were no problems at all," Nagesh says.Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 24 Mar 2009 | 7:29 am Parmeet Sethi turns directorActor Parmeet Sethi has joined the ranks of actors turning directors. Parmeet, who made his acting debut with Yash Raj's DILWALE DULHANIYA LE JAYENGE, will now also make his directorial debut with a Yash Raj film. Yes, Yash Raj will produce Parmeet's first directorial venture, which, in all probability, will star Shahid Kapur in the lead role. Parmeet's decision to direct a film was not an impulsive one. In fact, the actor had been working on the script for almost two years now. Let's await the official announcement from YRF.Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 24 Mar 2009 | 7:26 am I'd love to work with Akki again: Nagesh Kukunoor - Sify
Source: Google News India - Entertainment | 24 Mar 2009 | 7:16 am Wishing Emraan Hashmi a very happy BirthdayIn an industry that's ruled by the heavyweights like the Khans, the Kapoors, the Kumars and the Bachchans, here is a man who has single handedly taken the entire industry, not just by a mere storm but a lethal combo of tornado cum whirlpool! He is none other than Bollywood's eternal blue-eyed boy Emraan Hashmi, our today's Birthday Boy. Having started his career with 'Uncle' Bhatt's Footpath, this dude with an attitude, soon earned the infamous tag of 'Serial-Kisser' courtesy his on-screen shenanigans in films like Murder, Zeher, Aashiq Banaya Aapne etc However, his last few films like Aawarapan, Jannat have portrayed the latent talent that this actor possesses. A recent survey revealed that almost 95% of the cinegoers flocked in to see his last release Raaz-The Mystery Continues, only for him! While other actors' career chart exhibit their Hits and Miss, Emraan is a man whose career chart boasts of Hits alongwith many 'Misses'! Today, he is undoubtedly one of the very few actors who can single handedly draw (read 'magnetize') the cinegoers towards the Box-Office windows! So, what are you waiting for? Simply join Bollywood Hungama in wishing Emraan Hashmi as we cement the Kissing distance between you and Emraan Hashmi by posting your messages below:Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 24 Mar 2009 | 7:09 am Kannada film industry faces slump at box officeThe Kannada film industry is going through a rough patch, with even star-studded films biting the dust at the box office while films with newcomers are generating only 10-15 percent opening collections, members of the industry said.Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 24 Mar 2009 | 3:00 am After Nitish declined, I needed a party: Prakash JhaAcclaimed filmmaker Prakash Jha says he decided to contest the parliamentary poll on the Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) ticket from Bihar as Chief Minister Nitish Kumar didn't field him despite being friends.Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 24 Mar 2009 | 3:00 am Swelte beauty Shilpa Shetty shares her fitness secrets!Shilpa Shetty gave an exclusive byte to recently, sharing her fitness mantra, and her purpose of creating yoga DVDs and medispa.Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 24 Mar 2009 | 12:34 am Kabir Bedi, Dimple become king, queen of Valaya`s kingdom !Couture czar JJ Valaya proved that his show was worth the wait as Bollywood veterans Kabir Bedi and Dimple Kapadia walked the ramp.Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 24 Mar 2009 | 12:34 am 2009 a de-glam year for Bollywood babes!Bollywood heroines exploited their gorgeous looks to the hilt last year. This year the in-thing is being realistic and deglamorised.Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 24 Mar 2009 | 12:34 am Hollywood hottie Nicole Kidman lands in Udaipur !Having landed, Nicole Kidman has raised the temperature of Udaipur a notch higher. She is shooting for the film `The Eighth Wonder` here.Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 24 Mar 2009 | 12:34 am SRK unperturbed by IPL venue change; confident of big buzz ahead!The change in venue had no effect on King Khan, who owns `Kolkata Knight Riders` of IPL. SRK is sure of bringing Bollywood to the matches, wherever the venue be!Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 24 Mar 2009 | 12:34 am No, no, no! I repeat, I am not contesting elections: Amisha Patel!For a celebrity whose nose-diving career could not have been uplifted even with a flesh flashing bikini act, Amisha Patel has opted for the next best career option-politics.Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 24 Mar 2009 | 12:34 am `Jade Goody funeral to be a Jade Goody Production` !British reality TV star Jade Goody`s funeral will be a "Jade Goody Production", publicist Max Clifford said Monday.Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 24 Mar 2009 | 12:34 am Moore to play Hillary Clinton in `Special Relationship` !Julianne Moore has reportedly been roped in to play Hillary Clinton in a new movie `Special Relationship`.Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 24 Mar 2009 | 12:34 am Big B and King Khan to share screen space soon in Vivek`s next!Director Vivek Sharma is using the awesome combination of Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan again for his upcoming `Buddham Sharanam Gachchami`.Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 24 Mar 2009 | 12:34 am Bollywood Music director Ismail Darbar in troubled `affair`!Music director Ismail Darbar`s lady luck is not singing the right notes. His life has turned into a mess after `Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Challenge 2007` contestant Poonam Yadav attempted suicide this Saturday.Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 24 Mar 2009 | 12:34 am Purab’s life has changedGetting a token of appreciation at the Filmfare Awards is not an easy task in the highly competitive Bollywood.Source: IndiaGlitz.com - News | 24 Mar 2009 | 12:00 am Akshay keeping his fingers crossedThe box office result of the soon to be released ‘8 x 10 Tasveer’ is more critical for Akshay Kumar than all of his recently released movies.Source: IndiaGlitz.com - News | 24 Mar 2009 | 12:00 am Bipasha & Dino @ Gold Gym [Gallery]Source: IndiaGlitz.com - News | 24 Mar 2009 | 12:00 am Jade Goody produces her own funeral
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 23 Mar 2009 | 4:04 pm I was stagnating in my career: Preity Zinta
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 23 Mar 2009 | 3:53 pm Deepa Mehta's 'Heaven On Earth' passed without single cutDeepa Mehta's "Heaven On Earth" is in censor trouble.Source: Entertainment News | 23 Mar 2009 | 3:15 pm Preity Zinta to look after 34 orphansBollywood actress Preity Zinta, who plans to adopt children every year, said she will finance the upbringing of 34 girls at the Mother Miracle orphanage in Rishikesh.Source: Entertainment News | 23 Mar 2009 | 3:09 pm Reality shows - good for Shilpa, terrible for GoodyBritish reality TV star Jade Goody who died Sunday and Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty have both used reality shows as their path to international fame.Source: Entertainment News | 23 Mar 2009 | 3:07 pm Sanjay Dutt rushes back to Mumbai for Soham's sakeTaking a two-day break from his hectic campaigning schedule Sanjay Dutt rushed back to Mumbai on Saturday to shoot a song with Soham Shah. It was for the title song in Soham's film Luck devised and designed specially for Dutt. Taking a short break from shooting the song Sanjay said, "This is a commitment I had to fulfill. Besides I needed to give Lucknow a break. Didn't, want them to get an overdose of me." Sanjay returns to Lucknow on Monday to carry on with his election campaign until March 30 when the court will finally give its verdict on whether Sanjay can proceed to contest elections or not. A PIL by two Lucknow lawyers attempting to bar candidates with criminal backgrounds had Dutt worried. But he's pretty confident about sailing through.Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 23 Mar 2009 | 3:07 pm "Bunty has edited Aa Dekhen Zara and that's the real fact" - Neil Nitin MukeshDownload ADZ wallpapers Aa Dekhen Zara is hardly four days away and the least that the makers want at this point of time is any unnecessary controversy building up. Recently there was a media report about Neil Nitin Mukesh unhappy with the way Aa Dekhen Zara was shaping up on the editing table. Getting panicky, he requested Pooja Ladha Surti, editor of his last release Johnny Gaddaar, to come on board even though Bunty Nagi was the official editor of the film. "Puhleeze, I never stated anything like this whether on or off the records. Bunty was entrusted with the responsibility of editing Aa Dekhen Zara and he did an excellent job. There was no question of anyone else coming on board. Today when people come and tell me that the promos are looking interesting, I know what has gone behind making this possible", Neil sets the records straight. But Pooja was seen in the editing room when the film was being cut, isn't it? "It may have been an occasional visit or two. It is obvious though. Not many people are aware that Pooja is Jehangir Surti's (director of Aa Dekhen Zara) wife. The least a film maker could do to his wife is allow an entry to his workplace, isn't it", winks Neil. Jehangir is disturbed with the kind of reports floating around Pooja coming in to oversee Bunty's work in the film. "If I had to do that, I may well have roped in Pooja herself to be a part of the film from Day One. She was just a whisper away, right", questions Jehangir who is surprised with such gossip going around the town when he would have rather had his film do the talking. "I have respected Bunty's work, especially in thrillers like Shoot Out At Lokhandwala, Musafir, Kaante etc. He came into the project because he was the best in the business for a racy subject like Aa Dekhen Zara. Getting in anyone else on board, and that too in a supervising capacity, would only reflect badly on my own judgment w.r.t. technicians that I hire", adds Jehangir. Bunty Nagi is choosing to keep silent over the entire 'issue' and is letting it all go by. Having edited around 20 films ever since he made his debut as an editor-in-charge with Kaante, he is already looking forward to the release of his much awaited thriller Acid Factory. "Let me re-emphasize that Bunty has edited Aa Dekhen Zara and that's the real fact", Neil has the final word here.Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 23 Mar 2009 | 3:02 pm Heaven On Earth passed by censors without a single cutDeepa Mehta's Heaven On Earth was in censor trouble. The censor board asked her to drastically reduce scenes of domestic violence and to beep out a couple of expletives. Deepa no stranger to censorship, refused. "I told them I won't make a single cut. And they were welcome to give me an 'A' certificate if they wanted. They agreed. Not a single shot from Heaven On Earth (HOE) has been removed." Deepa is appalled by the double standards in censorship. "Correct me if I'm wrong. But another film Provoked had scenes of domestic violence. And Jennifer Lopez in Enough or Julia Roberts in Sleeping With The Enemy were shown to be far more graphically violated than Preity in Heaven On Earth. Comparatively my film has very little on-screen violence. We've just one sequence of domestic violence." And Deepa wouldn't let it be touched. "I refused to let them cut a single moment from it. Luckily my distributor Ravi Chopra was with me. He too would settle for no cuts. He said so many films with so much more violence get a 'U' certificate. Films showing irrelevant gratuitous violence get passed. But when in Heaven On Earth we show what happens behind closed doors we're told to cut it out. No way! You've horrific stories of young girls being beaten up and abused in Mangalore and Mumbai. If I make a film about it they'll see these things can't be shown." Says Deepa, "The violence in HOE is not manipulative. Wives are physically abused in front of the whole family. Children grow up thinking there's nothing wrong in beating up women and little girls who witness their mothers being battered actually believe getting beaten up is their destiny." About the expletives Deepa laughs, "We've a whole recent history of Hindi films filled with maa-bahen ki gaali. The kid in Heaven On Earth says the 'f' word twice once when his mother tells him to fasten his seat belt. How shocking is that!" Sighs Deepa, "I'm tired of the hypocrisy in censorship. You know, in the days when Asha Parekh was the censor chief they passed my Fire without a single cut and with a 'U' certificate. The objection to the film came from the Shiv Sena. And now when there's rampant violence against women I was asked to cut it down. I said I'd rather not screen the film in India."Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 23 Mar 2009 | 2:30 pm I would love to do Dostana 2: John
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 23 Mar 2009 | 1:46 pm Sanjay Dutt goes to Mumbai to shoot song for 'Luck'Sanjay Dutt took some time out from campaigning for the Lok Sabha polls in Lucknow to fly to Mumbai and shoot a song for Soham Shah's 'Luck'.Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 23 Mar 2009 | 12:30 pm Coming soon: A parody on IPL
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 23 Mar 2009 | 12:07 pm Natasha Richardson buried in New York
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 23 Mar 2009 | 11:44 am Jade and I were connected: Shilpa Shetty
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 23 Mar 2009 | 11:40 am Coming soon ... parody on IPL, ICLThe India Premier League (IPL) is not far away, but this season audiences will also get to see a parody on the different cricket leagues on the silver screen as well.Source: Entertainment News | 23 Mar 2009 | 11:15 am
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