Ranbir touches Deepika

Ranbir touches Deepika's feet

Ranbir Kapoor took Deepika Padukone by surprise when he bent down to touch her feet at the Colors Screen award function  It was a sight to behold. Ranbir Kapoor seeking the blessing of his ex-flame Deepika Padukone! Whether intentional or a spur of the moment doing, it took the actress by surprise.  At the Colors Screen awards held over the weekend, Dippy along with filmmaker Subhash Ghai handed over the Best Actor trophy to RK.  The choice to have Deepika to give away the award to RK was obviously to attract eyeballs and raise eyebrows. But what followed certainly made the audience at the MMRDA grounds notice it.  When RK arrived on the stage, he first bent down and touched Ghai's feet. And then took everyone by surprise when he again stooped to touch Deepika's feet. She took it sportingly and laughed heartily before handing over the trophy to RK. Incidentally, Deepika too won the Popular Choice award for Aarakshan.  But it was the trio of Prateik, Sharman Joshi and Mugdha Godse who gave her the trophy. There was no Kapoor Junior, otherwise would Dippy have done an act too, perhaps?  Ranbir and Deepika are slated to feature together in Ayan Mukerji's Yeh Jawaani Yeh Deewani, perhaps Ranbir was just preparing to face the camera with her again on a happy note.

Let's see Vidya Ka Jalwa

Ooh la la... Vidya Balan will be performing live for the first time at a film awards event later this month.  The actress who is seen at such programmes in her trademark sarees will shed the six yards and don a raapchik costume for her thumkas, latkas and jhatkas on stage.  The rehearsals are currently on and if our khabru is to be believed, Vids is leaving no stone unturned for her performance. Chalo, let's see her jalwa!  Playing pregnant woman was cakewalk  If she effortlessly essayed the role of a sex symbol in "The Dirty Picutre", it was a cakewalk to play a pregnant woman in search of her husband in "Kahaani", says Vidya Balan.  "It was not tough at all. During our college life, we all friends used to do all the nautankis and these stand-up items. And my favourite role would always be of a pregnant woman. So the walk and all came to me very naturally, " Vidya, 33, told reporters here.  Vidya ruled Bollywood as Silk last year and it seems she wants to take it forward with "Kahaani" as she is aggressively promoting the movie. If she dressed like her character for the promotion of "The Dirty Picture", the actress appeared with a baby bump at the "Kahaani" promotional event.  "Kahaani", scheduled to release March 9, is not the first film to feature her as a mother -- in "Paa" and "Heyy Babyy" too she had played a mom.  Besides her hard work, Vidya can't stop praising director Sujoy Ghosh's efforts and said: "He is very energetic. We managed to shoot continuously for 64 days without any break. Sujoy would not let the mood drop."  Vidya, who started her career with Pradeep Sarkar and went on to work with acclaimed directors like Priyadarshan, R. Balakrishnan and Abhishek Chaubey, hasn't got an opportunity to repeat her directors.  When asked about this, she said: "I don't make any rules. I would be happy to work with the directors with whom I have already worked. Few times it didn't work out. May be in future I will work with them. I am very greedy."  Her recent was with director Milan Luthria - they teamed up for "The Dirty Picture" and the film became a super-duper hit.

Battle of the Khans

Both SRK and Salman are being considered for Kamal Hassan's much-touted role in the remake of Gautham Menon's 'Vettaiyaadu Vilaiyaadu' Bollywood's growing fixation with the South has not just helped superstars like Salman Khan reclaim their stardom, but it has also become a ticket for many southern directors to make their mark here.  Probably why even before the release of his film Ek Deewana Tha, buzz about Gautham Vasudev Menon planning his next remake is already doing the rounds. The director plans to recreate his Tamil superhit Vettaiyaadu Vilaiyaadu with either Shah Rukh Khan or Salman reprising Kamal Haasan's role in the original. Says a source, "Vettaiyaadu Vilaiyaadu (2006) was a superhit because it was one of the more modern crime thrillers with some super advanced special effects."  Kamal Hassan plays a cop in the film, and it was reviewed as one of the most engaging investigative films down south.  So technically since Salman has already played a cop in Tamil film Pokhri's Bollywood remake Wanted, he seems to be at an advantage here. However, we hear that the director is trying to work out dates with both Salman as well as SRK.  Adds the source, "It's the role of a daredevil cop who is not just defined by his work, but also the style in which he does it."  Says Gautham, "We are showing the film around and we hope it gets picked up. As far as SRK and Salman go, all I can say is that it is a wish list. It would be great if either come on board, because it's a film for the masses."  Gautham is no stranger to Hindi cinema. The director made his Bollywood debut with the Rehnaa Hein Terre Dil Mein, which was the remake of his south superhit Minnale. Director Nishikanth Kamath remade Menon's Khaka Khaka into Force. And now the Hindi remake of his superhit film Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa is all set to hit screens. Bollywood bound We take a look at some prominent South names all set to give Bollywood directors a run for their money. A R Murgadoss: After giving Bollywood one of its biggest blockbusters with Aamir Khan at the helm, Ghajini director AR Murugadoss now plans to recreate history with yet another Khan. We hear that he will be remaking his 2002 Tamil hit Ramana in Hindi. The original film, starring Vijaykanth, captured a common man's fight against corruption. Sanjay Leela Bhansali is apparently all set to produce the film starring SRK. Dhanush: After the Kolaveri Di mania, there couldn't be a better time for Dhanush to announce his baby steps in Bollywood. The Tamil superstar is now planning to turn director with a fantasy flick in Hindi. He is looking forward to cast Hrithik Roshan in the lead. Prabhu Deva: After making waves as an accomplished choreographer in Bollywood, Prabhu Deva got behind the camera with Wanted the Hindi remake of Telugu film Pokiri.  The Salman-starrer was not just the surprise hit of 2010, but made way for many such remakes that very year.  His second directorial venture, Rowdy Rathore starring Akshay Kumar and Sonakshi Sinha, is already making all the right noises. The film will hit the big screen in June. Siddique: His debut Hindi film Bodyguard is the second highest grosser in Bollywood. No wonder Siddique has put his next Malayalam film with Mohanlal on hold, to kickstart work on his next Bollywood film, which we hear will star an A-lister as well. More the merrier Buzz is that SRK has been approached by Raghava Lawrence for the Hindi remake of his Tamil comedy-horror Kanchana.  Malayalam director Blessy will remake his Pranayam with Amitabh Bachchan playing Mohanlal's role.  Tamil actor-director Mysskin is set to cast John Abraham in the adaptation of the novel The Man from Pakistan.  Telugu director Srinu Vaitla is planning to remake his Dookudu in Hindi. Anees Bazmee remade Srinu's movie Ready that starred Salman Khan and Asin.

My name will always be linked to porn: Sunny Leone

"I am who I am," says Sunny Leone. The Indo-Canadian porn star, the latest to be evicted out of reality show "Bigg Boss 5", says she did not try and use the platform to promote her "business". It was reported that the Broadcasting Content Complaints Council (BCCC) cautioned channel Colors to ensure that Leone does not use the show to her advantage, following complaints over her appearance on the show.  But the 30-year-old is nonchalant. "I don't know what's being going on ever since I am inside the 'Bigg Boss' house. I just know who I am, and the world knows who I am, and what I do...what is my business. My name will always be associated with porn. But there was never any link-up with my website and 'Bigg Boss 5'," Leone told over phone from Mumbai. People may have known her for different reasons, but Leone, whose real name is Karen Malhotra, gave the Indian audience a glimpse into her other side - the fun-loving girl, who loves to cook and dance. "This show was so much fun! Thankfully, as you all must have seen, 'Bigg Boss' kept giving me dancing tasks one after the other. So my dancing skills are better, especially some Bollywood moves." "Also, week by week, my Hindi kept improving, and it is a lot better now. But I was happiest about learning how to cook a variety of Indian food.  I made really good dal and learnt how to make potatoes in 10 different ways! I think that's amazing, and I am definitely going to cook an Indian meal once I am back home," she said. The bisexual girl, who was born to Punjabi parents in Ontario, Canada, caused a flutter when her entry into the show was announced. But she dealt with it quite well. She came with an aim to entertain Indian audiences, and she did that successfully.  Even if she was evicted just a week before the grand finale of the show, Leone says she has no regret because it is all a part of the game. Her bigger victory has been in the form of a movie offer from one of Bollywood's most formidable filmmakers, Mahesh Bhatt, for "Jism 2". "I am really very excited about working with Mr. Mahesh Bhatt. He has told me a bit about the first instalment of the film, and said how it was very bold, controversial, and of course edgy.  So, yes, I am excited about Bollywood," said Leone, who says she wants to stay in India till "Bigg Boss 5" comes to an end.  Among the three men left on the show, she says she made good pals with Akashdeep Saigal aka Sky, and she also found a friend in actress Juhi Parmar. For the time being, she hopes to enjoy her freedom out of the precincts of the "Bigg Boss 5" house, and watch TV in a hotel room with lots of good food!

Sonakshi tells you about the five things every girl should own

She knows her style and what suits her the best. And like any other girl, Sonakshi Sinha too loves to shop.  So if you're doing a wardrobe overhaul this festive season, Sonakshi tells you about the five things she feels every girl should own: Little black dress: It's a must-have as it saves you in so many situations -- you can dress it up or down. To dress it up, just wear your favourite coloured heels and accent jewellery. To dress it down, throw on a denim jacket and black flats and your ready to go! The options to accessorise your LBD are endless. Perfect fitting jeans: Everyone should have a pair of jeans -- you know, the kind of jeans that make you feel comfortable. Buy a pair that's in style at present. Make sure that the cut flatters you and suits your body type. Collar necklace: These statement neckpieces are the perfect way to dress up a basic tee or to add some edge to your favorite LBD. Pumps: There shouldn't be a woman that doesn't own a pair of pumps. Pumps are extremely versatile and can be worn with almost everything. They are comfortable and look great when worn. A clutch: A clutch is perhaps one of the best inventions for a woman after a mirror. It is handy and functional and is an ideal purse to take when you are attending an evening do. Just put in your your make up essentials, some cash and your keys and you don't have to worry about lugging a big bag.

Stop treating Pregnancy like an illness, says the 'very pregnant' Lara

By Subhash K Jha Lara Dutta is not planning to take a very long maternity leave. After her baby at the end of February she will start a film in May for her production company Bheegi Basanti which may or may not star her.  Says the “very pregnant” Lara, “I am definitely producing another film in May 2012.  Yes it will have me in the lead. And again, like Challo Dilli where my co-star was Vinay Pathak the pairing would be very unconventional. In case I can’t get before the camera I will produce another film without me in the cast in May and then do the film with me in the lead from August. ”  Lara says this is a crucial time for the couple. “Mahesh has the Olympics. I’ve motherhood to look forward to. So we’ve other important commitments. But I most certainly plan to remain an actress and a producer. It’s something that I learnt from Shah Rukh Khan during Don 2. He told me he was happy to see the actresses turning producers and advised me to continue with my career. ”  At the moment Lara is all charged up for motherhood, “It’s by far the most important role of my life. But there are other roles too. Those cannot be marginalized. I don’t do anything half-heartedly. I never became an actress to enhance my bank balance. The zeroes in my cheques never mattered. All the work that I’ve done so far as an actress is what I really believed in. ”  Lara’s next release and the only one for a while until she returns after motherhood is Don 2. “It’s a small role. I did it because I wanted to work with Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani and with Shah Rukh Khan. ” Lara’s part is credited as a “special appearance” in Don 2.  “It’s a very special film for me. Farhan and Ritesh had offered me two films. I couldn’t do the first one and I couldn’t resist being in the second one. Don is a huge franchise.  It’s very exciting to be part of it. And I’m so happy people have appreciated my song in the gold dress. Here I am heavily pregnant while people out there are talking of as being this hot temptress in the number. I like the feeling, ” she laughs throatily.  On a more serious note Lara is all set to produce a pre-natal yoga video. The actress feels there’s an urgent need in our country for women to come to terms with their pregnancy and how to conduct themselves before motherhood.  Says Lara, “Pregnancy is treated almost like an illness in some sections of our society. I’ve been my normal self during pregnancy. I want other women who get nervous and anxious to experience the same comfort level as me and to not feel awkward about their weight or baby bump. Have I been conducting myself with dignity and grace? I don’t claim any exclusivity on the condition that I am in. I just feel motherhood should be a happy stress-free period for all women. ” Ask Lara about whether she wants a boy or a girl and she says. “Mahesh and I have no preferences. We’re just happy we’ll be parents. ”

Who knew Kolaveri di would go so far?

Apparently, Dhanush sold the rights of 'Kolaveri di' to a music label for a pittance, without foreseeing the song's astounding success Kolaveri di might have become a landmark on the 2011 music calendar, but unfortunately, the man behind the popular number - Dhanush - is unable to reap any monetary benefit out of the situation.  Apparently, Dhanush sold the rights for Kolaveri to Sony Music for a pittance, not knowing how far the song was fated to go. And now when there are various versions of the number making their way around the world (in Pakistan, as well), Dhanush's family and friends are dismayed at his meagre income from the deal. In fact, there is nothing the South star can do to curb the myriad versions of Kolaveri that are floating around. Also, he has no control over the various versions of the song that the actor has served up for future release. Shockingly the Hindi version of Kolaveri is out of Dhanush's hands. The star-singer says, "I can't release any version of Kolaveri without Sony's approval. And I'll have to share every version of the song with them. So essentially I'll get paid only for my singing. Like the Tamil version, the Hindi version of Kolaveri is with Sony Music. There's nothing I can do about it." Ask Dhanush why he didn't retain the rights for the song, and he replies, "Who knew the song would go so far? But it's okay. I don't regret it. I am content with what I've got from this song. And what I've got is priceless." About the song being used for a political campaign in Pakistan, Dhanush says, "The song has crossed a very important boundary." Apparently, plans are afoot for the Tamil star-singer to float his own music company for future Kolaveris.  A collaboration with A R Rahman is also on the cards. The maestro recently singled Dhanush out for praise, referring to him as the Aamir Khan of the South and comparing Kolaveri di to his Aati Kya Khandala.  Responding to Rahman's compliments, Dhanush says, "Coming from him, it's a great honour. I'd love to work with him."

I have no bitterness for Sonakshi Sinha: Kamal Haasan

Kamal Haasan talks exclusively to Subhash K Jha on his new Hindi-Tamil bi-lingual & passion for films Vishwarapoom, your latest brainchild, was supposed to co-star Sonakshi Sinha. What happened? There were dates issue. We tried to work it out. But there were legal contracts and any delay would have had repercussions. So we had to regretfully move on. But there was no ugliness, no bitterness or ego hassles.  Wasn’t she really young for you?  That was the way it was written. I was playing my age. She was playing hers.  Vishwaroopam is a project whose direction you had to take over?  It was my project and my story. Then time was running out. Sonakshi Sinha’s dates were gone. My dates were also running out. I do one project at a time. If the director doesn’t respect my time, I will have to. I am very clear on this.  If my dates are being wasted the project becomes mine. I’ve limited time, what with me celebrating a birthday every year. I wish I could celebrate my birthday like the government, every five years.  Vishwarooopam is said to be inspired by the Anthony Hopkins starrer Hannibal?  After I read that I was really inspired to think about a film based on Hannibal. I may do that in the future. Not this time. Vishwaroopam, I am keeping the theme close to my chest.  Here in Tamil Nadu the press has a tendency to jump the gun and draw conclusions and create trouble. For example if I make a spiritual film they’ll say since it’s Kamal Haasan it has to be subversive, so they’ll ban it even before it’s ready.  Where is Vishwaroopam set?  The US, India, UK, Jordon… It’s being shot simultaneously in two languages?  That’s right. In Hindi and Tamil. My first bi-lingual since Hey Ram. I am happy with the work we’ve done so far. Dasavathaaram got dubbed into Hindi, but the vocabulary was twisted. Unless it’s a really funny film like Appu Raja the dubbing doesn’t work.  The culture-specifications come in the way. How do I say Jaise karni vaise bharni in Tamil? That’s why we’re doing a double version of Vishwaroopam and needed a leading lady who had no fear of languages. Om Puri Saab has that fear. He refuses to do a Tamil film. Some people fear the unknown too much. I embrace it.  Your leading lady in Vishwaroopam?  She’s Pooja Kumar, a Broadway actress from New York, Punjabi girl of Indian origin. It’s a big break for her. Vishwaroopam is probably the biggest film being made in Tamil Nadu right now.  Yout completed 57 years in November. Out of these a good 50 years in front of the camera. Aren’t you exhausted?  The day I start looking at acting as work I would be. Working for money or fame saps you. I stopped doing that 25 years back The only time I am really happy is when I am in front of the camera. When I am not, I start ruminating, restrospecting and brooding.  I equate acting to building card-houses which I used to do as a child. I spent hours doing it. My mother used to shout at me, ‘Are you building the Taj Mahal? ’ For me it was building the Taj Mahal.  Today I feel like Shah Jehan trying to build something taller than me (my career). My work is my card-house. I truly admire what they do on the beaches of Orissa. They create true work of art on the beaches and then watch the wind and the waters sweep it away.  Your brother-in-law Mani Ratnam too had a heart scare recently?  He is a cool cat. I was surprised when he had a heart problem. Yeah I heard he checked into the hospital on his own. He probably scripted a convenient time for his hospitalization. People think my film with Mani Nayakan is my best work. To an extent it’s true. But I’d like to think my best is yet to come.  Another film with Mani Ratnam?  We keep discussing ideas. But we never get down to it. I don’t know what we fear. We spoke again on my birthday when he came visiting. He wanted to know what it felt like acting producing and directing all at once.  What next?  There was one character Balram Naidu in Dasavathaaram of a research analyst that became very popular. His speech and personality have become iconic. He was also played by Sanju Bhai (Dutt) in a Hindi film (Chatur Singh 2 Star). So yes, I am returning to comedy. Then someone also wants me to play Tipu Sultan. My hibernating historial Marudanayagam is still talked about. People ask, ‘When are we releasing it? ’ They talk of it as their own.  Your elder daughter Shruti Haasan has made a career in both Tamil and Hindi?  I’m proud of her because she isn’t doing a product of our home banner Rajkamal Films. The only thing Rajkamal did for her was to give her a chance to do the background score in Unnaipol Oruvan. It wouldn’t matter to me if she failed as a movie actress. But right now it looks like a winning streak.  Do you advise her on her choice of films?  No. When we talk career we get into an argument. I know it sounds clichéd, but we talk as friends. Every father says that. This started 10-12 years back. In Hindi films she is facing the same problems I did. If a K. Balachander hadn’t come along to do Ek Duuje Ke Liye with me in Hindi I wonder what would’ve happened to me! I would have suffered much worse because Shruti is far more savvy than me.  Don’t you want to act in a film with her?  Shruti has been telling me that we should. But I don’t want her to do it just for the heck of it. She is a star now. I want her to act in one of our home productions for the glory of our banner.  By the way for the Tamil version of Dasavthaaram she was my coach for my American accent. She had just returned from the US and was the perfect medium to help her father’s Madrasi accent to be transformed into a yankee accent. She was a bully.  She made me do many retakes in the dubbing. And after the dubbing she wanted me to correct some more of my accent. Eveyone thought that was taking it a little too far (laughs).  And your younger daughter?  Every time Akshara stands behind the camera and says, ‘This is where I want to be I am reminded of myself. ’ I started behind the camera and gradually moved to the front.

Bachchans planning to host a private dinner for Oprah Winfrey

Talk-show queen Oprah Winfrey is coming to India next week and has expressed desire to meet Bollywood couple Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai, whom she hosted on her popular talk show, and the junior B has confirmed the news.  "Oprah is coming here to shoot a documentary and she has expressed a desire to meet," the 35-year-old actor said here at the Filmfare Awards press conference.  Aishwarya made her maiden appearance on the "The Oprah Winfrey Show" in 2005, the year in which she featured in an Indo-British production venture "Mistress Of Spices". In 2009, she was invited with her spouse Abhishek to the show and in the same year Ash featured in "The Pink Panther 2". Abhishek is looking forward to meeting Winfrey. "She is always very respectful and very loving towards both of us and it'll be wonderful to meet her," said Abhishek whose latest flick "Players" received mixed reviews at the box office. Buzz is that the Bachchan clan is planning to host a private dinner for Winfrey.  This is Winfrey's first visit to India and she is also expected to attend the Jaipur Literature Festival scheduled for later this month.  The visit is largely a part of her new show "Next Chapter", which will see Winfrey travelling around the world and interviewing celebrities. Reportedly, she

When Sanjay sir said 'yes', he said he would not go bald: Karan Malhotra

After 15 years as an assistant director, Karan Malhotra directs his own film, Agneepath.  The debutant tells us how Sanjay Dutt got fed up of prosthetics and decided to shave his head, while his wife foresaw Rishi Kapoor in the character of Rauf Lala during their wedding reception Why are you remaking Agneepath?  Honestly, Agneepath is not a remake. The revenge-based storyline is the same but the plot is woven around a whole new world and has a completely different approach. If I wanted to do the same thing, what is the point of making a new film?  How did you get Karan Johar to back the film?  Karan was once chatting with all the assistant directors about their favourite films; and Agneepath was definitely one of the top three films in my head. I have lost count of the number of times I had seen Agneepath as a kid. Karan asked me if this film could be remade and I said, 'Why not? ' I requested him to give me a chance to develop a script.  Was adapting a classic a lot of pressure on you?  Absolutely. I still get nightmares and cold feet because people have given that film an aura. Mr Bachchan's performance has such an impact. Have you adapted this Agneepath to ensure its commercial success?  I have not adapted it to make it more commercial; I have adapted it the way I would enjoy watching it. And maybe I am a sucker for commercial films.  Tell us about Hrithik's character?  The biggest connect for Dharma's Agneepath is that Hrithik's character (Vijay) is much younger and more approachable. It is a character you will identify with and look up to.  As ordinary people with aspirations, we love to see an ordinary character do larger- than-life things in films. Vijay conquers the villains who are larger-than-life.  Did you cast Priyanka as a Maharashtrian girl after seeing her in Kaminey?  Priyanka is a great actor and I didn't have to rely on Kaminey. She plays the daughter of a prostitute who stays in a brothel and has opened a beauty parlour within the brothel. Priyanka is the happy, light element in the film.  Was it easy to convince Sanjay Dutt to go bald to play the villainous Kancha Cheena?  When Sanjay sir said 'yes' to the film, he said he would not go bald. I told him we would do prosthetic makeup. We shot a scene in that makeup and it looked good. But that makeup takes three hours to put on and an-hour-and-a-half to remove.  Finally, when we started shooting in Diu, it was so hot that Sanjay sir came up with a fantastic idea: 'Let's just shave my head.' Now it's much better than the effect the prosthetics would have achieved.  How did Rishi Kapoor agree to play the negative character of Rauf Lala?  A week after My Name Is Khan released, I got married to Ekta Pathak and Rishi Kapoor came to greet us at the reception because he was a very good friend of my dad, producer Ravi Malhotra.  While we were standing on the stage, my wife nudged me and whispered: 'He should play Rauf Lala'. From that day onwards, I tortured him till he said yes. He thought I was cracked to offer him a negative role.  To what extent would you go to take revenge? If I was evil, I would be as evil as Kancha, and if I was revengeful, I would be as revengeful as Vijay. The first film is the closest to any director's heart and his heart goes into every character he creates for it.

I wish I had made 'RA.One' better: SRK

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, who says marketing has become an indispensable part of filmmaking because of the rising ticket prices, used the best marketing strategy to promote his "RA.One", but feels he could have made the sci-fi superhero movie in a better way.  "I think it's very, very important in entertainment to get into merchandising, to get into gaming and be on the net... we cannot negate that any more, whatever the level of film you are making, " Shah Rukh, who was honoured at the NDTV Profit Business Leadership Awards 2011 with the title of Creative Entrepreneur of The Year in Mumbai, said in a tete-a-tete with the channel.  SRK, known for coining some of the best marketing strategies to sell his films, associated with over 50 brands for his mega-production "RA.One". However, he received mixed reaction for the movie, which was directed by Anubhav Sinha.  "It's very important because a film like 'RA.One' lends itself a little more, it's for children, it's superhero and stuff. I wish I had made it a little better because people started jumping on my back, 'Itna market kiya aur aisa picture banaya tumne (You marketed it so much, and made a film like this)', So, I got a little waylaid on that, " he added.  The movie, a sci-fi project, had a production cost of Rs.150 crore, and according to reports, his tie-ups to market the film were worth Rs.52 crore. Shah Rukh, a graduate in Economics, feels it's important to look at films as a product nowadays.  "I think you really need to take films and think of it as a product and put it across, and inform everyone what this product is because it is very expensive to go and buy the ticket.  "You know it's Rs.500-Rs.700, so you need to tell the customer this is what it is going to be. The more the channels you can inform on, I think more you are right about your product, " said Shah Rukh, who had begun promoting "RA.One" months before its release. With "RA.One", King Khan also brought into spotlight the importance of technology in taking Indian cinema global.  "To be really honest, even to the other producers and myself, I tell them put it (money) into the film, because I truly believe the technology and you know the way Indian films look... it's very important to go to the next level in terms of technology, otherwise we will lose. "...the danger is not that we are going to crossover or not, the danger is whether we are going to lose the Indian audience for the Indian films. We are the only country in the world which still has regional audiences, so to say. Otherwise Hollywood has taken over everywhere, and the only way we can make sure that we continue to have youngsters like our films is increasing our technology. "Otherwise 10 years from now there will be no Hindi films and I say that with utmost sadness. I really feel that if we don't push it a little more in terms of marketing and technology, we will not have Hindi films, " added the 46-year-old.  The event, which took place in Mumbai Saturday, will go on air Jan 14 on NDTV Profit.

What does Juhi intend to do Rs. 1 Crore?

By Subhash K Jha In the closely-contested grand finale of Bigg Boss Season 5 on Saturday night television actress and anchor Juhi Parmar emerged the winner beating the other favourites Siddharth Bhardwaj, Akashdeep Saigal (aka Sky), Amarr Upadhayay and Mahak Chahal. Mehak was touted as Bigg Boss anchor Salman Khan’s favourite girl.  However Juhi it was. And she was constantly considered a frontline potential winner for her peaceful and graceful demeanour inside the House.  Minutes after the victory the ecstatic winner said, “Very frankly I didn’t know I was considered a favourite potential winner until I came out of Bigg Boss.  Inside the House I was filled with doubts about my own conduct…Was I conducting myself decently? Was I being true to myself? How was I being perceived outside the Bigg Boss house? When I won all my misgivings evaporated. It was a feeling I can’t describe. ” Feeling vindicated Juhi says, “Bigg Boss has made me more tolerant patient and gregarious. Not that I wasn’t compassionate before. But now I can look at human failings and weaknesses far more dispassionately. And I’ve begun to love humanbeings even more. In fact when I came out of Bigg Boss and went into my van my spotboy was the first person I spotted. I just wanted to reach out to him. After being cooped up in the House with fourteen people for so many weeks I’ve come out starved for human company. ”  Among the lifelong friends she made in the House Juhi mentions Raageshwari, Akaashdeep Saigal, Pooja Bedi, Sunny Leone and Vida Samdzai.  “In fact, all of them. Even Siddharth Bhardwaj whom in a rare fit of anger I told I never want to see again, is finally a friend. But yes Sky, Pooja, Sunny and Vida are special. In fact Sky is now my rakhi brother. So you see I’ve come out richer. ”  Speaking of wealth what does Juhi intend to do with the money? “Honestly, I haven’t thought about it yet. At the moment I can’t believe I’ve won.  I never thought I’d have to think about the prize. The money will sink in later. But the one thing that I would most certainly like to do is ensure my child’s future, whenever he or she is born. ” Juhi was met by her family when she emerged from the Bigg Boss house. “My mom, dad, husband, brother and sister-in-law were all there. I realized there’s nothing in the world comparable with one’s family.

Will the censor allow Priyanka's topless act?

The Indian censor board is soon going to have its hands full. The makers of Indo-Italian co-production Gangor, which has already created quite a buzz in the festival circuit and is based on Mahashweta Devi's short story Choli Ke Peeche, are reportedly trying to release the film in India by March.  Among others, there are two topless scenes of model-actress Priyanka Bose who plays the protagonist Gangor, and another where tribal women, in a mass protest, take off their blouses.  According to the producer of the film Vinod Kumar, these scenes are crucial and have been shot in the most aesthetic way possible. "The censor board should appreciate our level of commitment. The film is about the freedom of expression and we won't mind an 'A' certificate." The film's Director Of Photography Marco Onorato earlier made the well-known Italian mafia film Gommorah. Talking about the controversial scenes, Kumar added that the sequence featuring the protest forms the climax of the film where they demonstrate against police brutality. The activist leading the protest is apparently named Medha in the film, and her character is based on the activist Medha Patkar. Actresses like Nandana Sen and Shahana Goswami reportedly turned down the role of Gangor because of the nude scenes.  Bose, who played a small role in Sanjay Bhansali's Guzaarish, however, went ahead, having enough faith in the director and script.  The producer said, "There was a scene, where Gangor confronts a man, telling him how he ruined her life. In order to expose her pain, she tears off her blouse to show her scars.  This was the very scene Italo Spinelli (director) and Sushma (casting director) used to audition actors for Gangor's part. We had some great auditions from Shahana Goswami, Deepal Shaw, Paoli Dam and many others, but it was Priyanka who saw the merit of the film."  In the other topless scene, Bose is seen breastfeeding her child.

Hrithik getting in shape for 'Krrish 2'

First Look: Hrithik getting in shape for 'Krrish 2'

Hrithik Roshan is multitasking -- he is not only promoting his forthcoming release "Agneepath", but also working on his fitness for his role in his father's production venture "Krrish 2". "I just need to get into top shape because from Jan 29 we have 80 days of action one after another. So I better be in the best shape. So all of you pray for me, pray for my health," said the actor, who turned 38 Tuesday. "Krrish 2" is the sequel to 2006 superhero film "Krrish", directed and written by Hrithik's father, Rakesh Roshan. The cast and crew of the film have already wrapped up the first schedule. "I am very happy because the script is very, very good and papa is very happy for the first schedule because it has gone very well. It was difficult but we managed," said Hrithik whose journey with supernatural thrillers began with "Koi... Mil Gaya" in 2003.  Meanwhile, Hrithik's fans are eagerly awaiting "Agneepath", which releases Jan 26. He plays Vijay Dinanath Chauhan, a role essayed by the legendary Amitabh Bachchan in the 1990 originalthat won him national award for his power-packed performance.  "Krrish 2" is expected to hit theatres by the end of 2012. It also features Priyanka Chopra, Vivek Oberoi, Kangana Ranaut and Riya Sen.

Salman Khan's latest 'Partner'

Meet Salman Khan's latest 'Partner'

The actor takes a fancy to Angela Jonson and signs an exclusive deal with her After patiently waiting in the sidelines for her Bollywood debut for quite a while now, Angela Jonson has now landed an exclusive deal with Salman Khan's home production. The Kingfisher calendar model will not only now star in Sher Khan, she will also star in the sequel of Partner and the remake of Amar Akbar Anthony, that will feature all the three Khan brothers Salman, Arbaaz and Sohail, both slated for 2013.  Says our source, "Angela's career in Bollywood wasn't taking off. But Salman and Sohail saw her potential and offered her an exclusive contract before she made the wrong career moves. Now she will be eligible for all of Salman's home productions, though they don't necessarily have to sign her for every film they make." Confirming this, Sohail says, "Yes she has signed an exclusive contract with us. But we haven't decided which film or films she will be doing. We think she has great potential. We will launch her."  Earlier there was buzz that adult-content actress Sunny Leone would be starring in Sher Khan.  However, the Khan brothers are said to have dropped Sunny after they came to know that the Bhatts were looking to sign her.  Our source points out, "Besides, Sher Khan is designed for Salman's young fans. An adult actress didn't quite fit the bill."  Turning the wheel of fortune Having almost given up hope on a big banner Bollywood debut, buzz was that Angela had given the nod to a multi-starrer Kya Supercool Hain Hum.

Ranveer-Sonakshi avert clash with Salman

To avert a clash with Salman Khan at the box office on this year's Eid, the makers of Ranveer Singh-Sonakshi Sinha starrer 'Lootera' have decided to release the film on Bakra Eid on October 26 Eid is considered a lucky time for Salman, as his previous three films 'Wanted' (2009), 'Dabangg' (2010) and 'Bodyguard' (2011) managed to cash in on the festival hype and rake in the moolah at the box office. His 2012's Eid release is Aditya Chopra's 'Ek Tha Tiger' with Katrina Kaif. Interestingly, Sonakshi, who made her acting debut opposite Salman in 'Dabangg', also finds Eid lucky for her. Sonakshi had reportedly asked the makers of 'Lootera' to release the movie on Eid as she considers it as auspicious day for her.  However, the Eid slot is already blocked by Salman for 'Ek Tha Tiger' and to play safe, the makers of 'Lootera' have decided to release the film on Eid-ul-Zuha. "Lootera is set to release on October 26, which is Bakra Eid. And looks like an extremely good day to release the film. Sonakshi Sinha had an outing last year for 'Dabangg' on Eid," producer Vikas Bahl said. 'Lootera' a classic love story set in the 1950s, is directed by Vikramaditya Motwane of 'Udaan' fame.

I don't create controversies: Payal Rohatgi

Controversies continue to dog Payal Rohatgi and the actress says it's hard for her to understand why she's always at the receiving end.  "I don't go out of the way to create controversies; I know some actresses pay their publicist money to create a controversy, but I don't know why this happens to me, " Payal told.  "May be that's the way god wants me to learn from my experiences. It used to bother me earlier, but now it doesn't. I have crossed that stage of 'what people think about you', " she added.  Whether it's her romantic dalliance with her reality TV co-star Rahul Mahajan or her wearing a bikini during a water task in the second season of "Bigg Boss" or accusing filmmaker Dibaker Bannerjee of seeking sexual favours, Payal has always hogged the limelight for the wrong reasons.  "I didn't want to enter the pool in swimwear or create those controversies. They (showmakers) created a task that had to be done in the water.  Since it was water volleyball, I had to wear an outfit that suits the sport. But they clipped footage of mine entering the pool that was picked up by TV channels and converted into a controversy. It was not my fault, " she said.  "They could have shown a shot of me inside the water, but they shot me when I was getting inside the water, they (channel) were desperate to create TRPs, " she added.  However, she does credit the show for getting her recogniton.  "When I started off, nobody held my hand and told me what I should do and how I should portray myself as an actor. When I went to Mumbai, I was in the process of figuring out what is good for me. 'Bigg Boss' was a turning point. People started to relate to me. . .  "What films did not give me TV gave me. In films, may be I was lost or typecast. I was imagined in a particular way; I might not be. My identity as an indivdual became much stronger in 'Bigg Boss', " said Payal, who has done films like "Plan", "36 China Town" and "Dhol".  Last seen in reality show "Zor Ka Jatka", Payal returns to the small screen with adventure reality show "Survivor India" and the actress says it is her attempt to change her stereotype image.  "Yes, this show is an attempt to change the perception that was created in 'Big Boss'. This show will have a side of Payal that is much more blunt, honest and upfront.  In 'Bigg Boss', there were so many things that I didn't say and as a result, people thought I was a fake. I have not let it happen in 'Survivor', " she said.  "Survivor India" is the Indian version of US reality show "Survivor". It goes on air Friday with 11 celebrity contestants and 11 commoners.  "It is about survival of the fittest, physically as well as mentally. It is not a luxury show; it is not a comfort zone show. Before going into the show, we all went through physical and psychological tests and those who were fit were selected. It was indeed challenging. I wanted to see how capable I am. I didn't want to be known as a weak link in the show and I survived my way into it, " she added.

സൂപ്പര്‍ സ്റ്റാറിന്റെ മകന്‍ നായകനായപ്പോള്‍ "വനിതയ്ക്ക് " കുളിര്..കഴിവ് തെളിയിച്ച മറ്റു ചെറുപ്പക്കാരൊന്നും അവരുടെ കണ്ണില്‍ പെടില്ല.
മമ്മൂട്ടിയുടെ മകന്‍ ദുല്‍ക്കര്‍ സല്‍മാന്‍ നായകനായ "സെക്കന്റ് ഷോ" ഇറങ്ങിയിട്ടില്ല..അതിനു മുന്‍പേ മമ്മൂട്ടിയുടെ മകനെ താരമായി വാഴിക്കാന്‍ ഇവിടുത്തെ മാധ്യമങ്ങള്‍ റെഡി ആണ്.ഇതിനു മുന്‍പേ സിനിമയില്‍ കഴിവ് തെളിയിച്ച നിവിന്‍ പോളി (മലര്‍വാടി ആര്‍ട്സ് ക്ലബ്),രജത് മേനോന്‍ (ഗോള്‍),ഗൌതം (യക്ഷിയും ഞാനും),ഉണ്ണി മുകുന്ദന്‍(ബോംബെ മാര്‍ച്ച്‌ 12 ) എന്നിവരൊന്നും കേരളത്തില്‍ ജീവിച്ചിരിക്കുന്നില്ല എന്ന മട്ടിലാണ് ബാപ്പയുടെ പിന്‍ബലത്തില്‍ മകനെ മലയാളികളുടെ തലയ്ക്കു മുകളില്‍ കയറ്റി ഇരുത്താന്‍ ശ്രമം നടത്തുന്നത്..അതിനു കൂട്ട് നില്‍ക്കാന്‍ കുറെ മാധ്യമങ്ങളും...ഇനി മമ്മൂട്ടി ഫാന്‍സുകാരും കൂടി ഇതേറ്റെടുത്ത് കഴിയുമ്പോള്‍ കേരളത്തിലെ സിനിമാ പ്രേക്ഷകരുടെ കാര്യം കട്ടപൊക.ജനഹൃദയങ്ങള്‍ കീഴടക്കിയ എത്രയോ യുവ നടന്മാര്‍ നമ്മുക്കുണ്ട്,.അവരെയൊക്കെ മറികടക്കാന്‍ സൂപ്പര്‍സ്റ്റാര്‍ കണ്ടെത്തിയ കുറുക്ക് വഴി കൊള്ളാം.പ്രിത്വിരാജിനു "നന്ദനം" എന്ന ചിത്രം കഴിഞ്ഞ്‌ എത്രയോ വര്‍ഷത്തിനു ശേഷമാണ് ഇങ്ങനെ ഒരു പബ്ലിസിറ്റി കിട്ടിയത്.ജയസുര്യ (ഊമപെണ്ണിന് ഉരിയാടാപയ്യന്‍),ഇന്ദ്രജിത്ത്‌ (ഊമപെണ്ണിന് ഉരിയാടാപയ്യന്‍),അനൂപ്‌ മേനോന്‍(കാട്ടു ചെമ്പകം),വിനു മോഹന്‍ (നിവേദ്യം),മണികുട്ടന്‍ (ബോയ്‌ ഫ്രണ്ട്),അസിഫ് അലി (ഋതു)..ഇവരെയെല്ലാം ആദ്യ ചിത്രങ്ങള്‍ കഴിഞ്ഞ് എത്രയോ നാള്‍ കണ്ടില്ല എന്ന് നടിച്ച 'വനിത' പോലുള്ള മാഗസിനുകള്‍ പടം ഇറങ്ങുന്നതിനു മുന്‍പ് തന്നെ ദുല്‍ക്കറിനെ താരമാക്കാന്‍ ശ്രമിക്കുന്നത് അപഹാസ്യമാണ്.ഇതല്ലേ യഥാര്‍ത്ഥ താരാധിപത്യം..?

That fight is between Shirish and SRK, admits Farah Khan

Director speaks fondly about her two-decade journey in choreography that began with Jo Jeeta Woh Sikander This year, Farah Khan completes 20 years as a choreographer in the industry. Nonetheless, she admits she still feels nervous on the first day of the shoot of a song. Recalling her journey over 20 years, Farah who turns 46 is making her acting debut in editor Bela Sehgal's first directorial venture, Shirin-Farhad Ki Nikal Padi, produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, says, "It's great that someone is actually making a film with Boman (Irani) and me in the cast because the script demands it. Instead of changing the script and taking two youngsters in the movie, " she says. Farah admits that she never wished for venturing in front of the camera before. And she's not planning to act in another movie again.  The time to get ready for her scenes has prompted this decision. In her own words, "I like the part from 'Action' to 'Cut'. I'm a low fuss person. Acting seems like too high maintenance for me. Getting the hairstyle and make-up done is the most tedious part."  Fast four Since you made your first two films as director with Shah Rukh Khan, do we see you working with him again?  At one time, I had said that I'd never make a film without SRK. But I did Tees Maar Khan with Akshay (Kumar). He's produced a film with another director. So never say never. We just might. Apparently, he's upset by your husband Shirish Kunder's tweets on RA.One. So he didn't reply to your invitation for your housewarming party. That's between Shirish and SRK. I'm not on Twitter, so I don't know what's happening.  Despite being best friends at one time, you and Sanjay Leela Bhansali have fought and patched up a couple of times. We go back a long way, since 1942 - A Love Story. I know him better than anyone else. We all fight and make up with our friends. Because of our profession, our fights and friendship is highlighted.  Despite debuting with Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikander, you worked more with SRK than Aamir... There's no particular reason. After Jo Jeeta, I choreographed for Sarfarosh and then for one song in Delhi Belly. His wife Kiran and I share the same IVF specialist. We met at a book launch and got along like old friends

Oprah Winfrey may visit Bachchans at home

Abhi-Ash might host Oprah Winfrey on her trip to the city, two and half years after appearing together on her chat show  On her first-ever trip to India, it will not be just work that will keep Oprah, one of the world's most famous chat show hosts, busy.  Apparently, the TV personality who is also known for her philanthropic works, will meet some close friends too. Buzz is that the international icon will visit Aishwarya and Abhishek Bachchan and meet their newborn baby girl as well.  Oprah is said to be visiting India to meet spiritual guru Deepak Chopra for her upcoming new show and is also expected to speak at the Jaipur Literary Festival on January 21 and 22.  Oprah is said to be trying to fit in a quick visit to Mumbai amidst all this. She tweeted last week, "Never been to India, it's been on my vision board forever." Adds a source, "Aishwarya has been a guest on Oprah's show twice and her second time was with Abhishek post their wedding.  She has been in touch with Oprah even during her international tours, and the Bachchans are keen to have her home." They plan to keep it as low key as possible by hosting a very private dinner between Janusry 23 and 24.  Adds the source, "When the couple was on their show in 2009, it was for the first time Abhi-Ash spoke on a public platform about their relationship.  So they do share a very warm rapport with Oprah and they want her to be as comfortable as possible." Chances are that Abhishek might fly down to Jaipur or Delhi to escort Oprah to Mumbai.

Don 2

By: He Who Must Not Be Named Starring: Shah Rukh Khan, Priyanka Chopra, Lara Dutta, Om Puri, Kunal Kapoor, Boman Irani, Aly Khan, Nawwab Shah, Florian Lukas  Story and Screenplay: Farhan Akhtar, Ameet Mehta, Amrish Shah  Music: Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy  Director: Farhan Akhtar  Rating: ****  Both Salman and Shah Rukh Khan are, perhaps, the biggest prisoners of their own success stories in Bollywood. While the former is deeply mired in his ever brooding Bhai image it is SRK, who at times, redeems himself with his suave performances.  No, I certainly have no doubts about their acting prowess. They both are extremely talented gentlemen and a treat to watch on screen. But for that you need to have capable directors like Farhan Akthar or Abhinav Kashyap who don’t get too deferential to the biggest stars of our times. Perhaps that’s why a Chulbul Pandey or Kabir Khan charms the pants off you while Lovely Singh and Shekhar Subramanium look like a poor joke.  So yes, Don 2 is FARHAN AKHTAR’s film who gives us SRK we all love to see – funny, witty and never too loud.  Barely ten minutes into the film and you are sold to his Don who is back with his eviler designs and delectable wisecracks. He is a suitable cousin to Ethan Hunt and Danny Ocean, an anti-hero planning to rob a Berlin bank of its euro printing plates in a daring heist.  To do so he escapes with his old foe, Vardhan (Boman Irani) from a Malaysian prison giving yet another heartburn to ex-flame Roma (Priyanka Chopra) and veteran cop Malik (Om Puri).  What ensues is high octane action, deadly car chases, treachery and of course unpretentious dark humour.  I’m sure the human moments will be missed by some in this slick thriller but then they may have very well worked against the film which has some ruthless men saying very mean things to each other. Well, how can you expect a man like Don to go all mushy over a girl, who puts his enemies under a bone crushing machine and exhorts them to make a right choice by saying “Main Nahi Chahta Tum Kisi Dabav Mein Koi Faisla Lo.”  Shah Rukh Khan is spot on as Don. Perhaps with this film, he is out of the shadow of the original Don. Now, he can certainly look forward to the subsequent sequels of this franchise without getting compared to Mr. Bachchan.  Priyanka Chopra looks convincing as Roma. She is still not over her failed affair with Vijay/Don, looks impervious to his charm before finally giving in. But remember... it’s still complicated.  Lara Dutta glitters in her small cameo as Don’s liaison. Kunal Kapoor as Sameer Ali, Don’s technology consultant, is just okay for his screen space. Hrithik Roshan who makes fleeting appearance as a masquerading Don looks pleasant but sticks out like a sore thumb in otherwise believable Don adventures.  The script is taut. Music and background score are cracking. Songs don’t impede the story telling. The cinematography captures the virgin locales of Berlin in full glory as King Khan goes all wild on German streets.  Farhan Akhtar makes a welcome comeback behind the camera. Undoubtedly an accomplished actor, he should certainly direct more often. A special mention is in order for his writing team Ameet Mehta and Amrish Shah who make Don 2 not only a slick but a smart thriller as well.  So, while catching Don may be an impossible task for the Police force around the world you can and certainly should catch him at a theatre near you.