Book Review: A.R. Rahman - The Musical Storm

First things first. 'A.R. Rahman - The Musical Storm' is an extremely voluminous book. Lasting close to 250 odd pages, it is sheer text that fills this book that is unlike many a picture books related to Bollywood that are made available on the stands today. In this regard, one can comfortably state that putting together this book would have been a painful experience for author Kamini Mathai. More so because this is not really an official biography of Rahman and has primarily being complied by Kamini after interacting with quite a few friends, family members, industry insiders and of course Rahman. The book more or less follows a chronological order while narrating the journey of A.R. Rahman that saw quite some hardships coming his way throughout his childhood and early youth. Born to a father who was also associated with the music industry but couldn't find success coming his way, Rahman faced rough times at an early age. The book takes the audience into Rahman's household that saw a kid loosing his childhood and worrying about family affairs at the time when he would have rather made friends and played with them. It's these initial portions in the film really make the reader feel a little depressed and one patiently waits for that point in the book to come which narrates the turning of Rahman into the sensation that he is today. However, Kamini takes a long time to reach this point; so much so that it endangers the interest level of a reader. A lot of time is spent into describing the work of Rahman's father, his subsequent illness and the days when Rahman started creating jingles. Still, since one knows that there is a lot more to follow in this 250 page book, one stays on to be patient and waits for the story to move forward. In the meanwhile, Kamini interacts with quite a few friends and acquaintances of Rahman, some known and some relatively unknown, and gets them talking about the man that he has been throughout his growing up years. As per her conversations, nothing much has changed about the man who has always been shy and reluctant. Of course there is a huge leap in confidence that has come in him from the days of Roja to Slumdog Millionaire and that is of course but natural. One has always been curious to know that how Rahman really become Rahman from Dileep. One starts turning the pages with much anticipation around getting the answers but yet again Kamini teases her readers. She throws a few hints but doesn't quite go the whole hog. However, just when one thought that there wasn't much to be revealed on the records around his change in religion, there is an entire chapter devoted to the entire transition that comes later in the book. Have a look at it to know more about why Dileep embraced Islam and became Rahman, how he has nothing to do with the Hindu religion any more, how he feels that it was this embracing that made him a successful professional and better human being that he is today, and how he has mainly has two love of his life - religion and music! There is also quite some detailing on the way Rahman operates and gets his music in place. Yes, there have been dozens of stories around how he may create a tune in a jiffy while in cases a perfect tune may take as many as six months to be composed. Well, the book gives a good account of why and how does it actually happen with Rahman when he decides to go ahead with his no-compromise policy. In fact talking about compromise, Rahman minces no words when he states that he has always disapproved of vulgarity in his songs and when it actually happened in a few songs in the initial years of his career, he was extremely disappointed. Rahman is someone who came on the musical scene at the time when Illaiyaraja ruled. No wonder, the arrival of the new kid on the block led to quite a few controversies; more so because there was a time when Rahman used to work for Illaiyaraja. Since Rahman decided to turn around the way music was composed in Tamil cinema those days, purists had a lot to complain against his style. Roja became a hit but daggers were out against him. The book details how Rahman still moved ahead in his career, found immense appreciation coming his way with every passing year, saw an exponential increase in his fan base and rose to such fame that today he is a proud Oscar winner as well. The man truly has been a non-conformist throughout his career and the book details ample examples of how music changed in the country for better ever since the arrival of Roja. Not that there weren't any road blocks during this journey of Rahman. In the initial years when he was composing for quite a few movies, not all turned out to be successful. There were some duds at the music stands as well while there were also instances when he was recycling his own tunes, apparently due to work pressure. How he got out of such situation and started working only on quality projects with lesser volume on plate is detailed towards the later portions of the book. What is amusing though is the entire chapter around the 'waiting period' that the biggest of film makers have faced while dealing with Rahman. This is the portion where it seems quite obvious that Kamini has taken a diplomatic route instead of actually calling a spade a spade. Though there are close to half a dozen instances being narrated where due to his delays many a film makers have had to camp in Chennai for a duration much longer than they intended too, Kamini seems to be defending Rahman by stating different reasons. Of course one has to grasp the episodes with a pinch of salt since Rahman himself doesn't seem to be defending himself through this book. Still, if the stories as narrated by Kamini are indeed true then makers indeed have been having a tough time getting their music readied by Rahman. Other than these facts, there are quite a few interesting anecdotes as shared in the book: - How Mani Ratnam was flabbergasted when at the last moment Rahman's mother insisted that the audio jacket of Roja should read Rahman instead of Dileep? (This was the time when Rahman was known as Dileep) - Rahman's frequent donations and charity, most of which go unannounced - How some of his earlier non-film albums like 'Set Me Free' were re-released (and became bumper hits) when Dileep became Rahman? - Why S.P. Balasubramaniam isn't too pleased with the choice of non-Tamil singers for Rahman? S.P. felt that if Adnan Sami could be roped in, tomorrow even a Chinese singer may come and sing a Tamil number! - That he got as low as Rs. 25000 to get the entire soundtrack of Roja in place In spite of apparent limitations that Kamini must have faced due to lack of extensive conversations with the man himself and the challenges that she would have faced to get to the bottom of the affairs when it came to certain controversies and clarifications, 'A.R. Rahman - The Musical Storm' still turns out to be a good and a detailed read. Price: Rs. 499/= Rating: 
Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 20 Aug 2009 | 8:27 am

Shilpa to launch readymade food range for Goody

Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty is planning to pay tribute to her <I>Big Brother</I> inmate Jade Goody by launching her own brand of healthy curries and side dishes including the 'poppadoms'.<br> 

Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 20 Aug 2009 | 8:06 am

Radcliffe rules out starring in Lord Of The Rings prequel

The actor was said to have been the favourite to lead the cast of The Hobbit, however, he insisted that he had enough of “wizards”, thanks to the hit Harry Potter series.
Source: Hindustan Times News Feeds 'Cinema' | 20 Aug 2009 | 8:00 am

"Dhan Te Nan was first used in a tele-film" - Vishal Bhardwaj

Like his cinema, Vishal Bhardwaj's brutal honesty in person startles you. "'Dhan Te Nan' was not designed specially for Kaminey. I had first used it in a tele-film called 'Dhan Te Nan'. I had used that catchphrase and the tune in that tele-film. 'Dhan Te Nan' is a phrase that belongs to our film and music culture. For us Indians, cinema is the biggest cultural entity. We often borrow illustrations and speech patterns from our films. 'Dhan Te Nan' is used during bedtime stories for dramatic effect. Whenever I used to tell my son Aasman stories I'd go 'Dhan Te Nan' to create drama. This phrase remained with me." Vishal admits putting the phrase 'Dhan Te Nan' in the dance idiom in Kaminey was not easy. "I'm always uncomfortable composing pub songs. Most often, there is no logic to these items. A pub is so noisy. Why would anyone sing in it? In Kaminey, Shahid and his companion Chandan do not sing 'Dhan Te Nan'. When they enter the pub the song is already on and they just lip-sync to the words." Vishal is still high on realism. "In all my films I struggle to marry realism with the music-songs idiom. In Omkara, I made Bipasha's character a singer before she breaks into dance for 'Beedi Jalay Le.' I can't have my characters break into a song without justification." Ask Vishal if the credit for the impact of 'Dhan Te Nan' goes to Shahid, and he retorts. "The song has its own value. In fact the character takes over the screen and the audience is no longer looking at Shahid Kapoor. He's a brilliant actor and he has completely disappeared into the character. All the credit goes to me for the impact of 'Dhan Te Nan'. Of course I needed the right singers, actors and technicians. But finally it's my vision that you see in the song. It's not Shahid Kapoor propelling the song forward. It's the entire packaging." Vishal admits catch-phrases ka zamana hai. "We've to admit people want catch phrases. But 'Dhan Te Nan' isn't the first. What about so many R.D. Burman tracks in the 1970s? What about 'Apalam Chapalam' fifty years ago? We need such phrases because somewhere audiences are no longer sensitive to tender thoughts like Hai tere saath meri wafaa and other Madan Mohan ghazals. I realize to put across my music I need that one catchy phrase and hook line. If my Maachis didn't have 'Chappa Chappa Charkha Chale', then 'Paani Paani Re' wouldn't have been noticed." Vishal Bhardwaj has sung the title song in Kaminey. "I felt that was the song for me. I don't think anyone can express the various shades of the word kaminey as well as I can. Sabse bada kamina main hi hoon." Speaking of the title, "When I titled my film Kaminey everyone thought I had gone mad. Today it's become a much-loved title." It's time for Vishal Bhardwaj and the unit of Kaminey to celebrate the success of the music. "We didn't have a proper music launch or an event. We wanted to wait until the music succeeded to have a real reason to celebrate. Now we do, I guess," laughs Vishal, speaking for the first time on the music. "I saw no reason to talk. Why speak for my work when it can speak for itself? I've been so busy completing Kaminey. I've had no time to speak." And Vishal's work doesn't just speak. It sings. The nation and its favourite DJ is busy humming Vishal Bhardwaj's 'Dhan Te Nan'. Ironically, Vishal came into the industry only to become a music composer. Being a filmmaker was never a priority for Vishal. "Believe it or not, it still isn't. I came to Mumbai to be a music composer. And when I didn't make the headway that I expected, I decided to direct films so I could create opportunities for composing music. I'm glad I'm composing the music I want to and I don't have to depend on other directors." Vishal is open to composing music for other directors. "Like I did the music for my friend Ajay Devgan's film U, Me Aur Hum. I'm open to outside offers. I love composing music more than directing films. All my scenes in Kaminey have an inherent lyrical and musical quality. But the music of Kaminey is very special. I've sung the title song and my wife Rekha has sung another very catchy number. Given a choice I'd want her song to succeed above mine." Vishal is very proud of his wife's success as singer. "Today she doesn't need me to compose for her. Rahman and others want only her for special songs, like 'Genda Phool' in Delhi 6." He laughs, "Now that the music has clicked the real struggle begins. Jo hona hai ho gaya. Now is the real test. Because Kaminey is not a run-of-the-mill film. It's a masala film. But the ingredients will take audiences by surprise. Shahid has worked very hard." We can't end the interview without discussing the indomitable collaboration of Vishal with Gulzar. "I don't have to tell him anything. He just has to be told the song situation and he goes wild. For the title song in Kaminey, the word has been used fifteen times in fifteen different ways. He has used the word kaminey in a spiritual sense. If you go on the internet you'll see Gulzar Saab has changed the definition of the word." What if people say Kaminey is an abusive word? Vishal is nonchalant. "Let them say what they like. I don't agree. I use the word kaminey all the time. Even you send me SMS-es calling me a kamina. I don't mind at all. It can be used as a term of endearment. Look at how beautifully Konkona Sen Sharma used the Hindi expletive chu**ya in Omkara."
Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 20 Aug 2009 | 7:29 am

I'm no Aamir or Akshay: Madhavan

He thrilled the audiences with horror flick <I>13B</i> but South Indian heartthrob R Madhavan believes that he is not a crowd puller like Aamir Khan or Akshay Kumar to get solo roles in Bollywood.<br> 

Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 20 Aug 2009 | 7:22 am

Review: Kaminey

Finally Indian movies are emerging from the Ramayan trap to embrace a more realistic Mahabharat premise to base their story lines. Kaminey is the first attempt to deal with reality in a mature, matter of fact manner, says Keshav Chaturvedi.
Source: Hindustan Times News Feeds 'Cinema' | 20 Aug 2009 | 7:13 am

SRK, Salman on Farah's show

Bollywood choreographer-director Farah Khan says it was a conscious decision to start her new television chat show with actor Salman Khan and his mother Salma, who has never given an interview before. And interestingly, the <I>Tere Mere Beach Mein</I> series ends with none other than Shah Rukh Khan. 

Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 20 Aug 2009 | 7:11 am

Local builder bullies Ekta Kapoor's Balaji team over land issue

Ekta Kapoor is one helluva enraged daughter. On Tuesday afternoon, her father was subjected to humiliation and violence of the highest order over the matter of the possession of their land in Mira Road (Thane district) in Mumbai purchased on behalf of Balaji Films by Jeetendra. On Tuesday evening, the builders claiming to have earlier possession of the land purchased by Balaji, barged into the land. According to Ekta these men with no claim over the land, used the local police force to intimidate Balaji's men out of the land. Ekta is enraged beyond words. "How can they do this to us in a city like Mumbai? We bought the land after four land searches. Then we bought the land and got all the proper documents. We also gave an ad in the paper saying, if anyone has any claim over the land, please come forward. Having done all that, some builders have come forward to claim it's their land. Shockingly they came to our land yesterday with cops and took our people to jail. The cops have illegally removed our people when we've all the papers. Because the other builder is a dada, they've put my people in jail." Ekta's dad rushed to the troubled spot yesterday evening although it wasn't safe. Admits Ekta, "It's quite unsafe. It was open dadagiri and my dad was unstoppable. That land owner who claims that the property we bought is his, has property all around that place. So he is shameless about his bullying. How can they bully my people out of my land? We've all the papers in order. As a responsible company, Balaji was very careful before buying the property. How can the cops trouble us like this?" Ekta and his family are planning to sue the police. Says Ekta, "The police's attitude is shocking. I'm going to create a huge uproar about this. RNA builders are using all kinds of muscle power to get us out of our own land. If this can happen to Balaji, can you imagine what happens to ordinary people?" Says Balaji lawyer Sandeep Singh Sidhu, "There is a status quo order by Mumbai High Court. Without honouring that particular order, RNA played quite dirty. All their papers are forged. Their claims have been thrown out of Thane court and Mumbai High court. I think the local police was approached by RNA and they tried to dispossess us forcibly at around 5 pm on Tuesday. The way they've gone about it anything can happen."
Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 20 Aug 2009 | 6:41 am

Saving Private Ryan is the best war film of all time

Saving Private Ryan is an Oscar-winning epic about the D-Day landings and it pipped Steve McQueen starrer The Great Escape to land the honour.
Source: Hindustan Times News Feeds 'Cinema' | 20 Aug 2009 | 5:30 am

What's Your Rashee song shot in one go

Ashutosh Gowariker attempted to do what very few Bollywood filmmakers have done - he shot for an entire song in one go for his forthcoming romantic comedy <I>What's Your Rashee?</I>. <br> 

Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 20 Aug 2009 | 5:04 am

Robert Pattinson says he's single

Good news for all the female fans of Hollywood heartthrob Robert Pattinson as the the actor who was rumoured to be dating <I>Twilight</I> co-star Kristen Stewart has revealed that he does not have a girlfriend.<br> 

Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 20 Aug 2009 | 5:01 am

Daniel Radcliffe says no to The Hobbit

<I>Harry Potter</I> star Daniel Radcliffe has shot down the possibility to act in a film based on J R R Tolkiens popular fantasy novel <I>The Hobbit</I>.<br> 

Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 20 Aug 2009 | 4:47 am

Bruce Willis, Arnold, Stallone in one film

Hollywood actor Bruce Willis has confirmed to play a part in Sylvester Stallone's upcoming action flick <I>The Expendables</I>.<br> 

Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 20 Aug 2009 | 4:44 am

I can never be like dad: Shahid Kapur

He has bagged kudos for his outstanding performance in the latest hit <I>Kaminey</I>, but Shahid Kapur says he can never match his father Pankaj Kapoor when it comes to acting.<br> 

Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 20 Aug 2009 | 4:09 am

Katrina Kaif touching new heights! - GlamSham

SantaBanta.com

Katrina Kaif touching new heights! GlamSham Katrina Kaif has been touching new heights after a series of successful films. Katrina has been appreciated by one and all for her outstanding performance in NEW YORK. And now the queen of million hearts, Katrina Kaif has been honored with the Rajiv ... Vineet Jain gets industrialist of the year awardTimes of India Bhaskar Group chairman gets award for journalismDaily News & Analysis Shahid and Katrina win 12th Rajiv Gandhi National AwardsWorld News StarBoxOffice.com -Times Now.tv -SamayLive all 36 news articles »

Source: Entertainment - Google News | 20 Aug 2009 | 3:52 am

Priyamani, proud of her bikini attire

National award winning actress and glamour heroine Priyamani condemned the gossips that she is playing a negative role in Raavan directed by Mani Ratnam. She claims that the character would not be that bad as has been predicted by the audiences.
Source: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 20 Aug 2009 | 3:51 am

Radcliffe rules out acting in Lord Of The Rings prequel

Washington, (ANI): Daniel Radcliffe has ruled out any possibility of him starring in a planned Lord Of The Rings prequel.The actor was said to have been the favourite to lead the cast of The Hobbit, however, he insisted that he had
Source: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 20 Aug 2009 | 3:48 am

LTTE funded Rajnikanth's movies !

A Sri Lankan minister has alleged that Tamil Superstar Rajnikanth, politicians Vaiko and S. Ramadoss benefited from the money laundering operations of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). Resettlement and Disaster Relief Services Minister Abdul Rishad Bathiudeen said that the
Source: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 20 Aug 2009 | 3:44 am

Dulhe Ka Divorce to follow Dulha Mil Gaya

Vivek Vaswani’s Shahrukh Khan starrer Dulha Mil Gaya is finally set for a November 13th release date. The film marks the return of Main Hoon Na jodi of SRK and Sushmita Sen, after a gap of 5 years. The film however
Source: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 20 Aug 2009 | 3:41 am

Kabir Khan to go back to making documentaries

He might still be riding high on the success of his second outing "New York" but director Kabir Khan says he would love to go back to making documentary films.
Source: Entertainment News | 20 Aug 2009 | 3:40 am

Ekta bullied on her own land

Ekta Kapoor is one helluva enraged daughter. On Tuesday afternoon her father was subjected to humiliation and violence of the highest order over the matter of the possession of their land in Mira Road (Thane district) in Mumbai purchased on behalf
Source: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 20 Aug 2009 | 3:39 am

Shilpa to pay tribute to Jade Goody with poppadoms

London, (ANI): Bollywood star Shilpa Shetty is set to launch her own healthy Indian food range as a tribute to late Jade Goody, according to reports. The 34-year-old actress is to pay tribute to her Big Brother co-participant by launching her
Source: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 20 Aug 2009 | 3:37 am

Abhiyum Naanum to be remade in Kannada

One more super-hit Tamil movie Abhiyum Naanum is being remade in Kannada. The movie was produced by actor Prakash Raj and directed by Radha Mohan in Tamil. Prakash Raj himself had played a pivotal role in the movie. Later, the movie
Source: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 20 Aug 2009 | 3:36 am

Farhan Akhtar makes A R Rahman wait

Farhan Akhtar is a busy bee these days. The man is left with no time to record a song for Blue with composer AR Rahman after shooting for Kartik Calling Kartik and looking for an exotic backdrop for Don 2.Rahman, who
Source: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 20 Aug 2009 | 3:29 am

My show starts with Salman, ends with Shah Rukh: Farah Khan

Bollywood choreographer-director Farah Khan says it was a conscious decision to start her new television chat show with actor Salman Khan and his mother Salma, who has never given an interview before.
Source: Entertainment News | 20 Aug 2009 | 3:29 am

Selvaraghavan going steady with Andrea

Ace director Selvaraghavan, after applying for divorce with actress wife Sonia Agarwal, is starting his new film with his favourite heroine Andrea (who is said to be the reason for the rift between Selva and Sonia) and brother Dhanush.Titled as Ithu
Source: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 20 Aug 2009 | 3:25 am

Ashutosh shot 'What's Your Rashee' song in one go

Ashutosh Gowariker attempted to do what very few Bollywood filmmakers have done - he shot for an entire song in one go for his forthcoming romantic comedy "What's Your Rashee?".
Source: Entertainment News | 20 Aug 2009 | 3:21 am

Lord Ganesha blesses Karan Mehra

Karan Mehra who rose to fame with Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai has become a household name. Each and every mother dreams of this boy as a son or their son-in-law. This all happened due to his hard work and his
Source: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 20 Aug 2009 | 3:20 am

I can never be like my father: Shahid Kapoor

He has bagged kudos for his outstanding performance in the latest hit "Kaminey", but Shahid Kapoor says he can never match his father Pankaj Kapoor when it comes to acting.
Source: Entertainment News | 20 Aug 2009 | 3:18 am

No Hussain canvas at summit, fans can... - IBNLive.com

AFP

No Hussain canvas at summit, fans canvass for him IBNLive.com London/new Delhi: He is celebrated as the best known artist of the country and is given sole credit for having placed Indian art on the world map. Known for his sharp business sense, Maqbool Fida Husain is also perhaps the only artist to have made the ... Summit brings affordable art to cityTimes of India Slideshow: India Art Summit 2009Livemint India Art Summit opens, minus most acclaimed painterAFP World News -Mid-Day -Expressindia.com all 22 news articles »

Source: Entertainment - Google News | 20 Aug 2009 | 2:17 am

Campaign heats up in Orissa for dance group's success on TV

After relatives, friends and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, corporate houses and social activists have launched a campaign in Orissa for the success of 26 kids who have reached the final round of TV reality show 'India's Got Talent'.
Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 20 Aug 2009 | 2:02 am

Set your alarm for Oct 2, when Sid fi... - SantaBanta.com

Indian Express

Set your alarm for Oct 2, when Sid finally wakes up SantaBanta.com Ayan Mukherji, the young and talented writer and director of Wake Up Sid approached me with a story he had been working on, a coming of age film about a rich, lazy, irresponsible, slacker boy from Bombay, who is aimless and carefree, without a plan in ... 'Wake Up Sid' is a coming of age film, says RanbirSamayLive Bollywood Hungama launches exclusive Video Blogs for Wake Up Sidbollywoodhungama Ranbir's new passionGlamSham Mid-Day -Apun Ka Choice -Desi Hits! all 21 news articles »

Source: Entertainment - Google News | 20 Aug 2009 | 2:02 am

Jeetendra lands up in land row

Yesteryears' actor Jeetendra is in a land row.
Source: Entertainment News | 20 Aug 2009 | 1:54 am

Farah starts with Salman, ends with S... - Oneindia

Thaindian.com

Farah starts with Salman, ends with Shahrukh Oneindia Everybody knows that all is not well between Salman Khan and Shahrukh Khan but choreographer turned director turned chat show host Farah Khan has the guts to invite them to her chat show Tere Mere Beech Mein. Of course, the actors will not appear ... Farah Khan goes from Salman to SRKTimes of India Salman started my show and Shahrukh will end it-Farah KhanSamayLive Farah Khan's show Tere Mere Beach Mein to launch on 23 AugustBusiness of Cinema Bollywood Mantra -Total Filmy -Times of India all 53 news articles »

Source: Entertainment - Google News | 20 Aug 2009 | 1:14 am

I don't think anyone is in my league: Madhavan

Versatile actor R.
Source: Entertainment News | 20 Aug 2009 | 1:09 am

Salman lets action speak in Wanted - Oneindia

SamayLive

Salman lets action speak in Wanted Oneindia After a lull, Salman Khan, who didn't care to clarify on the alleged rift with girlfriend Katrina Kaif, is everywhere again. But why now? The reason is simple. He has come out of the cocoon, as his much-awaited film Wanted is releasing next month. ... 'Wanted' captured allIndiaGlitz I was going through a very lethargic phase in my life...: Salman KhanTimes of India Salman on a promotion spree for upcoming flick WantedIBNLive.com Ub News -stardustco.in -StarBoxOffice.com all 35 news articles »

Source: Entertainment - Google News | 20 Aug 2009 | 12:33 am

My show starts with Salman, ends with Shah Rukh: Farah Khan

Bollywood choreographer-director Farah Khan says it was a conscious decision to start her new television chat show with actor Salman Khan and his mother Salma, who has never given an interview before. And interestingly, the 'Tere Mere Beach Mein' series ends with none other than Shah Rukh Khan.
Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 19 Aug 2009 | 8:01 pm

I don't think anyone is in my league: Madhavan

Versatile actor R. Madhavan, who has mega projects like 'Teen Patti' with Amitabh Bachchan and '3 Idiots' with Aamir Khan in his kitty, says he doesn't see any actor as his competitor since there is no one in his league.
Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 19 Aug 2009 | 8:01 pm

I don't believe in VIP culture, says SRK - IBNLive.com

New York Times

I don't believe in VIP culture, says SRK IBNLive.com UNPLEASANT EXPERIENCE: Shah Rukh says he would die before saying 'you don't know who I am'. ibnlive.com is on mobile now. Read news, watch videos be a Citizen Journalist. Log on to m.ibnlive.com NOW! In an exclusive interview to CNN-IBN Editor-in-Chief ... Shah Rukh Khan denies MY NAME IS KHAN promotion through US detention!!stardustco.in SRK's 'Amar' kathaHindustan Times srk's interrogation in US was a waste of time: Farah KhanSify StarBoxOffice.com -World News -Press Trust of India all 2,411 news articles »

Source: Entertainment - Google News | 19 Aug 2009 | 4:51 pm

Arshad’s look bowls ‘em over

Ever since Vishal Bhardwaj’s Ishqiya promos have hit the air, Arshad Warsi has been showered with praises.
Source: Hindustan Times News Feeds 'Cinema' | 19 Aug 2009 | 12:41 pm

Shahid Kapur's big RISK - Daily News & Analysis

NDTV.com

Shahid Kapur's big RISK Daily News & Analysis Mumbai: With movie theatres in Mumbai remaining shut on Sunday, Shahid Kapoor's plan to mingle with his fans had gone for a toss. However, the actor has made it up as he has hit the ticket counters when they reopened post the swine flu panic in the ... The curious case of the criticsTimes of India Dhan Te Nan was first used on a TV serialSantaBanta.com Shahid Kapoor wants to settle downOneindia Sify -GlamSham -IndiaGlitz all 139 news articles »

Source: Entertainment - Google News | 19 Aug 2009 | 12:38 pm

Bollywood Hungama launches exclusive Video Blogs for Wake Up Sid

Click above for more event stills Dharma Productions in association with Bollywood Hungama (part of Hungama Digital Media Entertainment Pvt Ltd.) launched an exclusive set of Video Blogs for their forthcoming film Wake Up Sid on www.bollywoodhungama.com. The video blogs were unveiled on the website by Karan Johar and actor Ranbir Kapoor, who plays the lead character of Sid in the movie. The video blogs will also be available with all mobile operators through Hungama Mobile. This activity also marked the beginning of Hungama's relationship with Dharma Productions. Speaking on the occasion, Karan Johar, producer of Wake Up Sid said, "Today marketing a film via the internet and mobile has become extremely important, especially if you want to communicate with a young audience. Wake Up Sid specifically, is a film that youngsters will identify with. Therefore we want to capitalize on the space where these kids are today; everyone has access to at least a mobile phone or is accessing the internet. Through our association with Hungama we will be at every digital touch point for the consumer over mobile and over the internet." Addressing the media, Ranbir Kapoor said, "I'm very excited about Wake Up Sid and the video blogs will tell you how hard the entire team has worked to create this film. It's a great way for the makers of the film and for me to give our audience across the world, a first hand account of how the film was made, and to receive their feedback which is so necessary. Since the blog is available on the net and across all mobile platforms, everyone can access it anytime, anywhere!" Neeraj Roy, Managing Director & CEO, Hungama also spoke on this occassion, "The film Wake Up Sid is about college kids and their lives. 75% of these kids spend their time glued to one digital screen- either the computer or their mobile phone. Hungama has taken the theme of the movie and created a relevant product for the digital platform. The video blogs bring alive the theme of the film, which, in a manner of speaking, is a catalyst in connecting the audience to the film. Today, digital marketing has become a medium to connect worldwide audiences with the stars and movie concept." Wake Up Sid is a film about Sidharth Mehra (Ranbir Kapoor), a lazy, unmotivated slacker from Mumbai whose life undergoes a series of changes after taking his final year college exams. Sid's world is breezy, carefree, and without any true responsibilities. The most important elements in his life are his friends, his camera, his car, and his X-box 360. A series of circumstances and events compel him to take stock of his life and take a hard look at himself. Will he, at some point figure out what he's supposed to be doing with his life forms the crux of the story. Wake Up Sid is set to release on 2nd October 2009.
Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 19 Aug 2009 | 12:31 pm

Priyanka happy after scoring hat-trick with Kaminey

Bollywood actress Priyanka Chopra is on cloud nine after scoring a hat-trick with her latest release Kaminey.
Source: Hindustan Times News Feeds 'Cinema' | 19 Aug 2009 | 12:28 pm

Hrithik turns real for reel role

Bollywood star Hrithik Roshan was so moved after meeting people affected with paraplegia while researching for his role in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Guzaarish that he has decided to help them in whatever way he can.
Source: Hindustan Times News Feeds 'Cinema' | 19 Aug 2009 | 12:25 pm

Sanjay Suri turns journalist!

After earning critical acclaim for his varied roles including that of a homosexual and a gigolo, actor Sanjay Suri is now donning the hat of a scribe in a suspense thriller that is inspired by the abduction and killing of social activist Sanjay Ghose in Assam 12 years ago.
Source: Hindustan Times News Feeds 'Cinema' | 19 Aug 2009 | 12:19 pm

Priyadarshan to remake Tamil hit Anjathey in Hindi

Filmmaker Priyadarshan is so impressed with Tamil director Mysskin's Anjathey that he wants him to remake it in Hindi under his banner Four Frames Entertainment.
Source: Hindustan Times News Feeds 'Cinema' | 19 Aug 2009 | 12:15 pm

Scarlett Johansson wants to star in Iron Man spin-off

Actress Scarlett Johansson had so much fun starring in her upcoming new flick Iron Man 2 that she’s keeping her fingers crossed producers will ask her to reprise her role in a spin-off movie.
Source: Hindustan Times News Feeds 'Cinema' | 19 Aug 2009 | 12:14 pm

MJ reality show on anvil!

The BBC is reportedly planning a talent show to find a dancer who can master Michael Jackson’s moves. According to sources, bosses will kick off a national search for Britain's best moonwalker...
Source: Hindustan Times News Feeds 'Cinema' | 19 Aug 2009 | 12:08 pm

MJ's doctor pleads innocence

Michael Jackson's personal doctor Conrad Murray, who was with MJ when he died, said in a personal video posted on YouTube on Tuesday that he was &quot;afraid to return phone calls&quot; or use e-mail due to the controversy over Jackson's death. 

Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 19 Aug 2009 | 12:07 pm

Fashion groups come together, opt for one fashion week

Finally the confusion is over and the verdict is out - there would now be only one fashion week as the industry's two main groups Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) and Fashion and amp; Design Promotion Council (FDPC) have decided.
Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 19 Aug 2009 | 10:00 am

Hrithik offers help to paraplegics

Bollywood star Hrithik Roshan was so moved after meeting people affected with paraplegia while researching for his role in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's <i>Guzaarish</i> that he has decided to help them in whatever way he can. 

Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 19 Aug 2009 | 9:54 am

Hrithik Roshan offers help to paraplegics

Bollywood star Hrithik Roshan was so moved after meeting people affected with paraplegia while researching for his role in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's "Guzaarish" that he has decided to help them in whatever way he can.
Source: Entertainment News | 19 Aug 2009 | 8:58 am

"My man should be 'gharelu', 'sanskari' and do whatever I say" - Genelia D'Souza

She is chirpy and giggly and that's all what we've seen and read of Genelia D'Souza so far in Bollywood. People who've met her and known her say, "On the flip side, she's just sunshine. She has a lightness to her and something very liberating about her." In order to find out the truth behind all the myth surrounding the cute actress, Bollywood Hungama's London correspondent and UK's Harrow Observer columnist tries to be her perfect partner for some time and finds out how compatible the actress is in a relationship, how seriously serious D'Souza is when it comes to her marriage and how well equipped is Genelia if she was to handle both, her profession and her marriage. Whatever the prognosis, she says with a dry smile; she has "extreme fondness" for those kinds of roles and a relationship which she shares in Life Partner. Her single life is just about to get messed up in this exclusive interview. Judging by the audiences reactions, Life Partner doesn't look like over the top forced in comedy. Your right. It isn't over the top. It's a situational comedy. Life Partner is for those who are all in a relationship. It ain't preachy too, is it? No it's not. In my case, my role to be precise, I am in love with Karan played by Fardeen Khan. We have a fairly long courting period. Neither a love marriage nor an arranged marriage can solve the problems taking place in a relationship. A good married life is all what you need at the end of the day. Now that's not preachy, that's common sense. Are you a good singer off camera? And was it a deliberate move by the play back to sing the 'Kuke' song in a way that sounds not worth hearing? Firstly, I am not a good singer off camera and on camera. Well, the 'Kuke' song is a chartbuster song. So even if it's sung deliberately in a bad way, it has worked for us. Not that it was sung like that. But there is certain connect to my role and the way I sing it which has appealed to all. My role of Sanjana is the most untalented character in the world. She is filthy rich, pampered and spoilt. She wakes up in the morning thinking of her profession as a hobby and that's where things fall flat on her face. I am not a good singer off camera and on camera You must've got friends who are married. Any bit of info you tried to dig out from them on their respective relationships which could've helped you for the film? Yes, I've got friends who are married but I didn't find the need to go and explore their personal relationships out. What I see in Sanjana is very much what I see in an outsider today. Sanjana is a brat like most of today's girls are in real life. Sanjana is a brat like most of today's girls are in real life That's quite a statement I should say. Well not really a statement but a fact. Today's women are confident. They can manage themselves. They can get up and change the world. Most guys would agree with that and get married. There is always this chauvinist characteristic about the guys which come out. I am a chauvinist too and why not. How safe and secure should one's marriage life be in today's time? There is no guarantee for life, forget marriage. I think that marriages are made in heaven and I feel people do get married because they feel complete with their respective partner. Would you then go for an arranged marriage or a love marriage? I'd certainly go for a love marriage. Did Fardeen share his love marriage stories with you? Fardeen says that before he got married to Natasha, they were adventurous, they spent a lot of time together with friends and there were loads of fun moments between the two. This made his relationship strong and even stronger when they got married. What would you look in your ideal man before marriage? I would definitely want someone who is an outburst. He should be 'gharelu', 'sanskari' and do whatever I say. My wish should be his command. I like men who listen to their women and not order them and take them for granted just because they are in a relationship. They have to be courteous and respectful. My man should be 'gharelu', 'sanskari' and do whatever I say You think by playing a chirpy, cheerful brat in both your films (Jaane Tu and Life Partner), some part of your talent may be left undiscovered? I don't think so. I am not in a hurry to grow up too. There is a time and place for everything. I'm sure there will be more substantial roles coming my way. I don't think you can take away talent from anyone. What is also to be noted is the fact that two bubbly and chirpy girls I've played in Jaane Tu and Life Partner aren't the same. They have different characteristics. There will be a day when another side of Genelia D'Souza will soon be discovered. You didn't get along well with Govinda? (Laughs) That was deliberate right? He is a blast. We've grown up watching his films since school and college days. I have looked up to him but sadly looking down upon him in Life Partner because I constantly fight with him. It was tough playing that part because I can't hate a person whom I like and admire so much, whether it's films or not. Sanjana hates Govinda but Genelia loves him. Would you be able to balance your professional and personal life after you're married? I don't think it is difficult at all to manage ones professional and personal life after you find your life partner. It's possible and it should be because marriage isn't the end of everything. It's a new beginning in itself. Sanjana hates Govinda but Genelia loves him. Anything you'd like to mention about the director duo turned producers? I don't know why Abbas Mustan wanted to produce Life Partner but I'm sure they loved the subject. They as producers were outstanding. Though they are directors and can give their inputs in every scene they want, they tried not to. They came on the sets to be a part of the unit and not to be a part of the director. As an actor, what precisely do you look out for when you see your co-stars filming a scene? Everything. The timing, where the camera is coming from, how is the co-actor's body language, how many takes does he or she give, the way they express their emotions and laughter, etc. As an actor, I am always aware of what's happening around me and on the sets and I like being that way. Sum up marriage in a word Life Partner
Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 19 Aug 2009 | 8:01 am

Jeetendra lands up in land row

Yesteryears' actor Jeetendra is in a land row. Some builders have allegedly used muscle power to take possession of a piece of land the actor says he purchased on behalf of Balaji Telefilms and used local police force to intimidate the senior actor's staff.
Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 19 Aug 2009 | 8:01 am

"In Sikandar I'm depicting that militancy is on wane in Kashmir" - Piyush Jha

Piyush Jha has come home. Ten years ago he made a spoofy film Chalo America about the compulsive and rampant NRI-ship among young Indians. Now Jha is totally on home turf with a film about a burning Indian issue. Sikandar takes us into the heartland of Kashmir militancy and was shot completely on location to the sound of booming guns and screaming bullets. That a filmmaker of Sudhir Mishra's strong political leanings had enough faith in Piyush to let him do a film on Kashmir says it all. Piyush Jha talks to Subhash K Jha. Sikandar takes you to the 'forbidden' land of Kashmir. How was the experience of shooting in the volatile valley? My experience of shooting in Kashmir was really most pleasurable. I enjoyed Kashmir thoroughly. What I'm depicting in the film based on my research, is that militancy is on the wane in Kashmir. This was borne out by the fact that I had a smooth shoot in the valley. Nowadays, militancy is limited to the border areas and perhaps today the truth is that Kashmir, is in most parts- safe, and yes it is still one of the most beautiful places on the face of the earth. You will see this beauty in my film. Sikandar is a post-card to Kashmir which contrasts the visual beauty with the cruelty of the goings on of the last 20 years. What I'm depicting in the film based on my research, is that militancy is on the wane in Kashmir Shooting with kids is never easy. You were shooting with Parzaan Dastur and Ayesha Kapoor who once were kids in popular roles and are now gawky teenagers. Was that a hard thing to deal with? In fact the reason that I cast Parzaan and Ayesha was that I found that they had not only the required skill set of being comfortable in front of the camera, but also had a long enough hiatus to bring a freshness into their performance. They are gawky in a way, but that was what I needed for the roles, so I used their gawkiness to maximum advantage for building their on-screen characters. Although both of them are young, they have a maturity way beyond their years and their ability to respond to a director's instructions is that of seasoned professionals. Many units including Rahul Dholakia's Lamha has faced huge amounts of trouble shooting in Kashmir. What about you? My own experience was that of a smooth shoot, without any disturbances or glitches. The local people were very supportive to our efforts. Perhaps, we were able to relate to them well. Our local production managers and assistants were drawn from the pool of people who were very professional in their approach, and we had a dream run while the shoot lasted. What was your tryst with terrorism like? Do you think film units can ever go back to the days of Kashmir Ki Kali and Junglee in the Valley? Wherever we went, we were shown locations and told that this location was used in this film/ that location was in so and so song etc. For instance we shot in the beautiful 'Betaab Valley' near Pahalgam, so named because the film Betaab was shot there. In another place I was shown the temple used in the song 'Jai Jai Shiv Shankar' from the film Aap ki Kasam. The Kashmiri people are very proud that so many films were shot in the valley, and sad that for the past so many years, film crews have not visited them. They are looking forward to film crews going back. People on the streets would shout to us as we walked by "Send more film people back. Tell them that we miss them" Kashmiri people are looking forward to film crews going back There have been films on terrorism in Kashmir from Mani Ratnam's Roja and Dil Se to Shoojit Sircar's Yahan. What is your take on them? So, what goes through our minds when see hear the word "Kashmir"? Nine times out of ten, it will invoke images of AK-47 wielding young terrorists. We will shudder if any of our friends suggest going for a holiday to Kashmir. We will dismiss Kashmir as a "problem": someone else's problem. I want to show that the average Kashmiri has absolutely the same aspirations as the average person from Bihar, Andhra Pradesh or Maharashtra, that is, upward mobility. The average Kashmiri kid wants to be a Doctor-Lawyer-Engineer and/or Shah Rukh- Sachin- Bhaichung. He wants the latest Mp3 players, 24 hrs Hi-Speed broadband, and wants to take part in Reality Shows. In other words, the average young person is not oiling his AK-47 for the next strike, but is waiting for the rest of the country to accept him into the national mainstream. In the recession- hit scenario do you think audiences are open to the idea of watching films about the grim political reality? In fact, Sikandar is not a "grim-political-message oriented" film. Sikandar is an exciting suspense-thriller. Although I have explained the political reality of Kashmir in my answers to you above, I have kept the politics of Kashmir in the background in the film. In the foreground, is a universal human story about a protagonist caught in a web of intrigue from which he tries to extricate himself and while doing so, gets further and further embroiled. I myself get bored with 'heavy political dosage' films. I, like most people, go to watch movies that thrill or excite me and give me a cinematic experience and therefore I think, like me, the audience at large likes to watch engaging screen stories, whatever be the circumstances around them. You earlier made a film called King Of Bollywood which got a severely limited release. Do you think films by directors from outside the film industry have it easier than those who are born into film families? I think film directors have a tough time making the films they truly want to make, whether the directors are from film families or not. The demands of the market are so strong that we are forced to bend towards a certain kind of filmmaking format that will appeal to the universe. However, in recent times we are seeing that this audience universe has got very choosy about the kind of films it likes to see. I think with the recent success of films which broke new ground, things are really looking up for all kinds of filmmaking talent that's looking to find their individual expression.
Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 19 Aug 2009 | 7:49 am

SRK's detention raises questions about US procedures: Tharoor

Minister of State for External Affairs Shashi Tharoor Wednesday said Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan's detention at a US airport 'raised real questions about US procedures'.
Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 19 Aug 2009 | 7:33 am

"Dharam-ji has made a career out of Kaminey" - Priyanka Chopra

When it comes to Bollywood releases, time and again one hears a declaration from the makers that 'audiences should leave their brains behind before stepping into auditorium'. However, Priyanka Chopra makes an exception and insists that her latest release Kaminey respects the intelligence of the audiences and wants them to bring their brains to the theaters. Talking to Joginder Tuteja, she admits that Kaminey stays true to the title with quite a few 'kamina' characters in the film. She also talks about Guy Ritchie world of film making in the narrative of kaminey and also the various twists and turns that the movie takes. First things first. Weren't you flabbergasted when Vishal Bhardwaj came to you with a film that had a title like Kaminey? [Laughs] Frankly, I thought that he was joking. However, soon I realized that he was indeed very serious. Only he could have dared to come out with something like this. I guess he is the biggest 'kamina' amongst us all and that shows in his work. I guess Vishal is the biggest 'kamina' amongst us all and that shows in his work. Apparently, Gulzar approved the title as well. Yes, him giving his nod to the title was some reassurance as well. Vishal is a big fan of Gulzar saab and when he said that he was fine with the film's title as Kaminey, there were no doubts whatsoever. Since Kaminey is a plural world, would it be right to assume that it's not just Shahid Kapoor but even you who turns out to be a 'kameena' in the film? Actually every character in the film is a 'kamina' except for one. Can you reveal who is this person? Or is a suspense element? No, it's not really a suspense element but why don't you check it out for yourself? This year we have seen 'kaala bandar' and 'kaala naag' as a metaphor of sorts in films like Delhi 6 and Videsh - Heaven on Earth. Does the term Kaminey too substitute as a metaphor by any means? No, not at all. There is no metaphor business here. The word is used straight and simple as 'kaminey' in the true sense that we use it. It stays honest to its meaning. The film is an action caper with comedy and stays on to be a fun ride. (Laughs) In fact during the first half of the film, you would wonder what the film is all about and where is it heading. It is only later that the entire drama starts unfolding and there is some resolution to the entire guessing game that audiences had indulged themselves in. There have been questions raised around the film's title though. I don't really see Kaminey as abusive-abusive in the true sense. We make statements like 'kitna kameena aadmi hai yeh' or 'kitni kameeni harkat kari hai isne' in our daily language. And come on, what are we really talking about. After all Dharam-ji has made a career out of this word! (Smiles) One look at the promos of the film and you are led to believe that Kaminey is following a Guy Ritchie and Quentin Tarantino brand of filmmaking. How much of that is true? Well yes, Kaminey does enter a similar space as that of Guy Ritchie or Quentin Tarantino. The film is first of its kind experience at least in Indian cinema. Kaminey has an altogether new and different approach to story telling and at least I don't remember any such film being made before. Director Ahmed Khan did try to do a Snatch with Fool N Final though with not-so-positive results. I haven't seen the film so can't really comment on that. As far as I know, Kaminey is the first time when we have gone all out with a narrative like this. So are we looking at a linear narrative for the film? Or we would be witnessing quite a few layers to Kaminey? It's a film about two brothers and what happens to them in the course of a day. There are lot of layers and lot of sub tracks in Kaminey. Yes, all of it does tie up all in the end. While you are playing the guessing game, you can't predict that what's going to happen next. The film is like Ram and Shyam on speed. You know, the old school kind of stories where there is an 'achcha bhai' and a 'bura bhai'! Kudos to Vishal since only he could have thought something like this. There are so many characters in the film and he has made them all so real. It's a film about two brothers and what happens to them in the course of a day Does that make Kaminey a complex affair? Not complex but then it doesn't facilitate spoon feeding for sure. It's high time that we stop thinking that audiences ko kuch samajh nahi aayega jab tak saari baatein clearly nahi batayenge! Let's move away from this mentality because we are the same people who love such cinema from Hollywood that allows audiences to use their brains judiciously. Then why don't we apply the same thought when it comes to Bollywood flicks too? Why do we under estimate the intelligence of our audiences?
Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 19 Aug 2009 | 7:14 am

Amaan, Ayaan unsure of debut film, return to sarod

Amaan and Ayaan Ali Bangash, who were set to make their acting debut with director J.
Source: Entertainment News | 19 Aug 2009 | 6:47 am

Shahid Kapoor's next with Genelia D'Souza titled Chance Pe Dance?

Ken Ghosh's Shahid Kapoor starrer is getting in news each day. Earlier it was Jiah Khan's replacement with Genelia D'Souza. Now it is the change in title of the film for the third time. The title change started from Star to Yahoo and now the film is apparently been renamed as Chance Pe Dance. It is learnt that director Ken Ghosh wasn't happy with the earlier titles. Being a dance-based movie, the director finds this title apt and has finalized for the same. Ken Ghosh says, "We haven't locked any final title as yet. And nor was Yahoo or Star as the film's title. We are still deciding for the same." Has Chance Pe Dance title been finalized? He says, "Not as yet, we will be finalizing it by end of this week." However, a source from UTV maintains, "The promos and poster have been locked on the title of Chance Pe Dance." The film stars Shahid as the dancing sensation in the film. It is all about a middle class youngster who goes on to become a music sensation. The problem arises when he experiences a misfortune and gets into dejection. Ultimately, he recovers and hits the track yet again. Justin Timberlake's choreographer Marty Kedulka and Britney Spears' choreographer Brian Friedman have trained Shahid for the film. The movie is due to release in November.
Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 19 Aug 2009 | 5:23 am

Govinda changed lyrics of Amrita's song in Life Partner?

During the last couple of years, there have been countless stories around Govinda and his superstitions that have made the rounds. Whether it is shooting with a hen or getting the dialogues changed at the last minute, there have been quite a few interesting anecdotes that have made headlines. Now add one more to the list. Believe it or not but this time around, what got the axe were the lyrics of 'Poorza Poorza', an item number picturised on Amrita Rao for Govinda's Life Partner. The lyricist who had to bear the brunt? Kumaar, who has in the past has written for quite a few films coming from the house of Bhatts and is trying to establish himself in the industry. Informs a source attached to Life Partner, "Govinda was unhappy with some of the words in 'Poorza Poorza' which he believed came with a negative connotation. The original lyrics go as 'Mare Hum, Jab Seene Se Dil Gaya, Hai Poorza Poorza Hil Gaya; Jab Poorza Poorza Hil Gaya, To Dum Sa Nikal Gaya'. He had problems with 'Mare Hum', 'Seene Se Dil Gaya' & 'Dum Sa Nikal Gaya'. He felt that this was clear indication of death and wanted to avoid them as a part of the song by all means." It was a Code Red situation for the entire team of Life Partner, including composer Pritam, and the song had to be changed pronto. Though the song in the CD still appears as per the original recording, the lyrics that find a place in the final print of the film that has just released over the weekend gone by read as: 'To Humdum, Dil Se Dil Jab Mil Gaya, Hai Poorza Poorza Hil Gaya; Jab Poorza Poorza Hil Gaya, Tan Man Sa Machal Gaya." Naturally, words like 'Humdum', 'Dil Se Dil Jab Mil Gaya' and 'Tan Man Sa Machal Gaya' were far more 'romance friendly' and less 'life threatening' for Govinda. On contacting, lyricist Kumaar was reluctant to talk about the matter. He said, "Yes, this indeed happened. Beyond that, I don't wish to comment any further." 'Poorza Poorza' is sung by Sunidhi Chauhan and Kunal Ganjawala and would be seen it's revised version making it to the next lot of music CDs that would be hitting the stands.
Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 19 Aug 2009 | 4:45 am

Ranbir teaming up with Imtiaz, hints Rishi Kapoor

If things move as per plan, Ranbir Kapoor may soon find himself working with ace filmmaker Imtiaz Ali, indicates the young actor's father Rishi Kapoor.
Source: Entertainment News | 19 Aug 2009 | 3:23 am

Hrithik Roshan offers help to paraplegics

Bollywood star Hrithik Roshan was so moved after meeting people affected with paraplegia while researching for his role in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Guzaarish' that he has decided to help them in whatever way he can.
Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 19 Aug 2009 | 3:01 am