Salman Khan rejects 's offer

It is learnt from our reliable sources that actress Sushmita Sen’s ambitious plan of diversifying into film production has now come to a halt. The former Miss Universe had set out to make a historical film on Rani Laxmibai and had even approached Salman Khan to star in the film, and Shekhar Kapur to direct it.

But Salman reportedly rejected this project since he was back then busy with his film Veer. It was being said that he didn’t want to shoot two period films simultaneously.

However, Shekhar Kapur after hearing the script, had realised that Sushmita had done a whole lot of research for the film and had even advised her to direct it herself.

But for now, Sush has decided to put the film on hold. Sushmita however also maintains that if she does decide to direct a film in the future, it will definitely be on Rani Laxmibai.

Presently, Sushmita, who has lost oodles of weight, is promoting her forthcoming venture Dulha Mil Gaya which releases on 8th January 2010.

A source close to Sushmita tells us, “Since she is also busy with her recently-adopted second child, she will not be able to concentrate on direction right now. She has not signed on any new projects either.”

Talking about her another baby girl, Alisah, she says, " She is adorable! She is so beautiful and Renee is almost like a mother to her. I was just waiting for the courts to make it legal for you to be able to adopt two girls, and the minute that happened, I jumped at the chance. She is three months old and I just want to ask everyone to pray for her.”

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I don't want to be an Item Girl: Mrinalini Sharma

Model turned actress Mrinalini Sharma from New Delhi is shaping up her career steadily. She started her filmi career as a Bhatt camp actress starring in two of Mahesh Bhatt’s films, ‘Awaarapan’ and ‘Showbiz’.

Though, Mrinalini didn’t succeed in making a strong screen presence but she is back again in the upcoming action cum thriller film ‘Hide and Seek’.

‘Hide and Seek’ is a joint venture film of Moser Baer Entertainment Ltd. and Idiot box, produced by Apoorva Lakhia and Lakshmi Singh. Directed by Shawn Arranha, the film stars Purab Kohli, Arjan Bajwa, Ayaz Khan, Samir Kochhar and former Miss Universe Amruta Patki and the music of the film is composed by Gaurav Dasgupta and Chirantan Bhatt.

We had a brief chat with Mrinalini on her new film…

Tell us something about ‘Hide and Seek’. What’s your character like?
‘Hide and Seek’ is a suspense flick and it’s based on the story of 6 friends who start playing a game of Hide and Seek on a cold Christmas night. But little did they expect that night and that game would change Om, Abhi, Jaideep, Imran, Gunita and Jyotika’s lives forever. I’m playing the character of Jyotika and I’m paired opposite Purab Kohli.

We’ve been hearing that this your comeback in the B-Town, where did you run away?
I didn’t run away anywhere! This is mostly because I’m coming back in a big film after a gap of two years under the banner of Moser Baer and well– known director Apoorva Lakhia.

How was it working with debutant director Shawn Arranha?
Oh, it was a lot of fun working with him and I think the way he has directed ‘Hide and Seek’, I’m sure the audience will be glued to their seats.

‘Hide and Seek’ has a huge star-cast, did you face any problem while shooting with them?
Not at all! Since it has a huge star-cast and all of us had scenes together, the shooting was extremely enjoyable. We used to shoot at nights so it was like house on fire as we all are about the same age.

 Most of the actresses these days switch to regional cinema when they don’t get work in Bollywood? Would you ever like to do the same?
I don’t think cinema is restricted to only one language! All I see is a good script and a character with substance, if that works out that I’ll do any film from any region.

You had an item number performance in film ‘Apaharan’. Do you prefer being an item girl as it’s a sure shot way to stardom?
I don’t think being an ‘Item Girl’ is a sure shot way to stardom! You’ve to struggle anyway but I don’t want to be tagged as an item girl as I want to be an actress. I had a guest appearance along with a dance scene in ‘Apaharan’ but after the movie released, I was disappointed to see that my scene was cut out and they only showed the item number.

Any other upcoming movies in line?
Yes, I’ve worked in ‘Shaadi ke liye loan’, which is set to release

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Ranbir-Deepika have broken up, confirms Karan Johar

Here's one more reason for Ranbir's female fans to be happy. According to his close friend Karan Johar, Kapoor is very much single, and ready to mingle!

The duo came together at a book shop to release DVD of Wake Up Sid. During the event, hoards of girls were screaming ‘Ranbir we love you’. Many wanted to know if Ranbir was single?

While the shy star hesitated to answer the tough question, his pal KJo replied, “Yeah Ranbir is single and he is ready to mingle.”

According to onlookers, on hearing that a couple of his female fans almost fainted with excitement! After all, it is very tough to compete with Deepika and Katrina and now when Ranbir is single they are ready to take their chances.

So, happy hunting girls!

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I don't want to die a virgin

Neetu Chandra's attempt to garner some spotlight with her steamy photo shoot hasn't helped her much. Now the ‘Traffic-Signal’ babe is once again in news for her fear regarding virginity.

According to a leading daily, the sexy actress is often heard moaning, "I wish, I don't die a virgin."

Chandra is out of work at present and often seen frequenting clinics for her skin treatment, which turned blue because of excess weight shedding problem.

Neetu who grabbed eyeballs after her photo session with model Krishika Gupta for a men's magazine also rubbishes protests against her for allegedly promoting lesbianism.

Talking to the journos she asks, "Do you see any lip locks here? Any body rubbing? This is just a contemporary adaptation of Ajanta and Ellora. It’s only about my expressions. Instead of those provocative expressions, if I’d just laughed or smiled, it may have well been a volleyball or basketball lying next to me."

She adds, "I very much knew what I was doing and never got carried away. But if there’s even an iota of doubt in anyone’s mind, let me make it clear once and for all that I’m not a lesbo.”

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Katrina: Me? Hot and sexy? You should see me at home

Katrina Kaif has had three big hits in 2009. A track record that none of her peers can begin to equal in these times of creative and boxoffice recession. That isn’t all. She has just been voted the most popular actress in a Filmfare poll and the sexiest Asian actress by a leading Asian website from London.

But the girl remains grounded, so much so that she refuses to budge from her abode in a bustling part of Mumbai.

“I know I’ve been reading about relocating my home. I admit I’ve looked at a few properties. But nothing seriously. Though it’s a little noisy on my street I’m too attached to the place I stay in. I’m also too lazy to make a move.

Yes I’ll need a bigger place when my sister Isabelle joins me. But right now she’s studying acting in the US. There’s still time, ” yawns Bollywood’s hottest and sexiest.

So is she planning to move home? “Not at all I’ve always wanted a home by the sea. But I love my current home too much. So no plans of moving”

No plans of signing any new films yet either. “It’s very sweet of directors to mention my name in forthcoming projects. I feel privileged. But I haven’t said yes to anything new. At the moment I’ve cut my workload by half because of my ill health.”

As for being designated one of Asia’s sexiest women by Eastern Eye Katrina laughs, “Me? Hot and sexy? Nah. People should see me at home. I’m painfully unglamorous. Just another working girl making a living.”

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Wincing in pain Katrina leaves India

The healing process after her surgery last week is yet not even half-complete. But Katrina Kaif, recovering quietly from surgery at her Mumbai home, stubbornly decided to go and join her family in London for the annual Christmas-New Year vacation which she had promised herself for months now. Katrina flew out of Mumbai early Wednesday morning after getting a reluctant go-ahead from her doctors at Breach Candy hospital. Wincing in pain she said a few hours before departure, “The pain will remain for a while. But the process of healing is on. I got my doctor’s consent in Mumbai and I’ve another doctor in London who’s fully aware of my condition. The doctors said the pain will be the same in Mumbai or London. And as long as I’m very careful about not exerting myself I’ll be fine. So I’m off.” Katrina had gone into a depression earlier during the week when she felt she wouldn’t be able to join her sisters and brother in London because of her medical condition. On Tuesday after visiting the doctors Katrina and her mother took a decision. Said Katrina, “I can’t exert myself, can’t dance around or be boisterous. But that’s okay. Because our family is in any case not the dancing type. I just want to be with my sister’s little boy take him to the toy stores in London and buy him everything he wants.” Katrina returns to Mumbai in the first week of January, hopefully fully healed. “Luckily I’ve a doctor in London who knows how to look after me. So basically I’m just moving into a happier state of mind by being close to the people I love. That would help me heal quicker….Wish me luck.”

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Ranbir and Deepika patch up after ugly breakup

Ranbir Kapoor, who was hoping to get back together with his ex-girlfriend Deepika Padukone, got his chance at a party hosted by jewellery designer Maheep Kapoor and fashion designer Nandita Mahtani. The guests at the party made sure Ranbir and Deepika, who weren’t even on talking terms, got talking.

The party had all the glitter possible what with Shahrukh Khan and his friends– Karan Johar, Arjun Rampal and his wife Mehr present.

Also present were Shabina Khan, Ritesh Deshmukh, Sonam Kapoor, Dino Morea (Nandita’s boyfriend).

Deepika was with Ritesh Deshmukh all evening, as he is her co-star in ‘Housefull’ while Ranbir was speaking to everyone. However, Deepika and Ranbir kept avoiding each other’s eye. And the guests at the party saw that.

To break the ice between them, Karan and Shabina tried to get the two to talk.

Everyone else also worked to get them talking. They were even made to sit at the same table. They first exchanged pleasantries and then got into a discussion. Everyone was relieved to see both of them talk again.

"They took everyone by surprise when they left the venue together," the source said. Apparently, all the onlookers were surprised to see both zoom off in Ranbir's car.

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Spoilsports couldn't spoil my thrill: Akshay Kumar

Although a Candian land-preservation group tried to stop Akshay Kumar’s Olympian sprint in Toronto on Thursday evening no power on earth could take away the exhilaration of the moment from Akshay.

His joy at representing the country with such a singular honour has now multiplied. After Akshay carried the torch at one of the most well-attended street events in Toronto, the Olympics committee in all their wisdom, decided to gift the Olympian torch to the Khiladi star.

Unable to contain his excitement at the honour Akshay on his return to Mumbai on Sunday morning said, “Carrying the torch across the longest street in the world was the greatest honour I could hope for.

But when after the event the Olympics committee gifted me the torch I almost broke down. My first thought was for my son Aarav who would now be able to keep that precious torch with him for a few days. My second thought was, will I carry it back to Mumbai safe and sound?’

At the Toronto airport the authorities were excited by the very unusual cabin luggage that Akshay had brought with him. “They didn’t even check the torch! I was just asked to proceed with it.”

Throughout the long trip from Toronto to Mumbai Akshay clutched the torn in his hands as he sat thinking of what to do with the precious possession.

 “It was during the long flight that I decided what to do with the torch.I’ll be auctioning it and use the noney to help the children who participate in the Special Olympics.”

Reliving the golden moments when he carried the torch in Toronto on Thursday evening Akshay says, “About 7-8000 Indians including those who had come from other cities like Montreal and Vancouver lined both the sides of Younge Street which at 15, 00 miles is the longest street in the world. I started at 7.30.

But people had already gathered by 5 pm. I covered about ½ a mile in 20 minutes. I can only tell you, it was the most exciting and magical moment of my existence.”

Akshay’s spirits were not dampened by a group calling itself the Torch Extinguishing Committee.

Says Akshay, “I don’t know whose torch they came to extinguish. It was certainly not mine. I heard they were around somewhere on that street. Like I told you it’s the longest street in the world.

I completed my sprint without obstruction. I could hear people shouting, ‘Spoil-sports, spoil-sports!’ against these protesters. I’m sure they were protesting for a worthy cause. But why dilute sports by bringing politics into it?”

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Shahid Kapoor ke Car-naame

These days, films resort to all kinds of marketing and promotion techniques for a hit. Director Ken Ghosh and UTV Motion Pictures have decided to use a special idea to promote the movie.

In the movie ‘Chance Pe Dance’, Shahid Kapoor, who plays the lead role, lives in a car.

So the promotion team has decided to use the car to attract attention to the film. Shahid will stay in the car for two days and also have meetings in the car. This will take place a little before the film’s release in January.

While nothing has been finalized yet, Shahid has approved of the idea. They will be using an old Maruti 800.

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Salman Khan finds a new love- Laxmi

It’s strange but true. Salman Khan’s love for humanity has turned towards horses. This love has compelled him to buy two for his farm horse. The love story began during the shoot of Veer.

“In the midst of many horses, one horse that stood out was this one named Laxmi. She became my favorite and I was so attached to her that I must have fed her more biscuits than I have eaten in my entire life!

We had the poor villagers all around while shooting who wouldn’t get proper water etc and here I had this horse eating biscuits all the time. So the next thing huge biscuit packets started coming for the all the children there, ” exclaims Salman.

He goes on to add, “Incidentally, when we were not shooting for Veer, Laxmi was shooting for some other film where she fell into a pond and nearly died. Fortunately, she survived and came back to shoot with me on Veer. This time she was scared and shy and it toll a lot to get rid of her fear.”

Salman further adds, ”The best part was by the time we were done with the shoot of the film, everybody had become so attached to their horses that we were in conversation more with the horses than with each other!

“My love for horses has grown so much after shooting for Veer that I have decided to buy two horses for my farmhouse, ” signs off Salman with a smile.

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Aamir Khan, Katrina Kaif and Karan Johar launch “Cineblitz Gold” issue

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Kareena’s role in ‘Kurbaan’ similar to Katrina’s in ‘New York’?

Mumbai, Rumours are rife that Kareena Kapoor’s role in “Kurbaan” is similar to Katrina Kaif’s in “New York” — both the actresses are featured in near-identical roles of a wife who discovers her husband to be a closet-terrorist.
“Kurbaan” director Rensil D’Silva doesn’t deny the similarities between the two films but doesn’t comment on the similarity of the roles.
“If there are similarities between ‘Kurbaan’ and ‘New York’ then that’s fine. I’ve high regards for Kabir Khan as a filmmaker. If ‘Kurbaan’ reminds audiences of Kabir’s film then I’m fine with that. It has worthy recall-value,” D’Silva told IANS.
Releasing Friday, “Kurbaan” also stars Saif Ali Khan as a terrorist and Kareena plays his wife. Vivek Oberoi plays a pivotal role in the movie.
The director cautions that every work on terror and terrorism has its own mood and purpose.
“There can be any number of films on two people falling in love. It’s about how the individual director interprets the emotion of love. Likewise with the theme of terrorism. It’s open to a multitude of interpretations. I’d like to believe my film is essentially different from Kabir’s,” he said.

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Madhuri Dixit to play Indira Gandhi in biopic

New Delhi, (BollywoodWorld.com) Asian-American filmmaker Krishna Shah is set to make a biopic on Indira Gandhi and has roped in Bollywood diva Madhuri Dixit to play the role of India’s first and only woman prime minister.
Titled “Mother: The Indira Gandhi Story”, the film was announced on the late prime minister’s 92nd birth anniversary Thursday. The pre-production of the film has already been done. It will go on floors in mid 2010 and be shot in India, Britain, US and Russia.
“I have followed Indira Gandhi’s life through media, books and critics. It’s such an exciting and dramatic story. I want the future generation to know her story. A whole new generation has grown and matured since her assassination and through this film I hope to connect people with their history and legacy,” Shah said in a press release.
Apart from Madhuri, Bollywood actors Dharmendra, Abhay Deol and Nana Patekar have been approached to play Motilal Nehru, Rajiv Gandhi and Jayaprakash Narayan respectively.
Hollywood star Tom Hanks is likely to be a part of the film as former US president Lyndon Baines Johnson. Tommy Lee Jones is also being approached for a pivotal role in the film.
“Mother: The Indira Gandhi Story” will be made in two parts.
While the first part will unfold the story from her birth to her emergence as “Maa Durga” (goddess of War) after her victory against Pakistan in the 1971 war, the second instalment will cover her political journey from the rise of her son Sanjay Gandhi to her assassination in 1984, Shah said.
Shah has been doing research for the project since two decades. He has read books on her, interviewed politicians, journalists, bureaucrats, writers, military men and her contemporaries to dig information.

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Shilpa Shetty ties the knot, becomes Mrs. Raj Kundra

Clad in a red sari and flaunting diamonds and emeralds, Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty Sunday exchanged wedding vows with London-based businessman Raj Kundra in a close-knit family affair here in this Maharashtra hill station.
“Everything went very well. All parents want their children to get married happily and that goes the same for Shilpa’s parents as well. They are very happy,” said Kiran Bawa, Shilpa’s friend and business partner, after the wedding.
“Raj and Shilpa both were very nervous before the marriage but now they are happy. We are going straight to Raj’s house in Mumbai,” she added.
Wearing a red sari designed by Tarun Tahiliani, the 34-year-old exchanged vows with Kundra as per the Bunt tradition, according to the Mangalorean community that the Shettys belong to.
The groom was sporting a maroon sherwani with golden embroidery and a turban with his face veiled by a sehra (string of pearls). He was also holding a sword in his hand, as per Indian tradition.
Kundra left Amrit Villa, located about five minutes away from Bawa Villa, where the wedding was held, in a two-horse chariot.
Photographers scrambled to train their cameras at the goings-on while curious star-gazers were kept at bay by both private and police security.
Sunday’s wedding was the climax of the two-day festivities that included a sangeet ceremony Saturday night here.
The buzz around the marriage started early this year and had been steadily getting louder even though Shilpa denied it officially before getting engaged to Kundra late October.
Expected at the marriage were celebrities like the Bachchan family, Shah Rukh Khan and family, the Kapoors, Rekha, Farah Khan, Salman Khan, Farhan Akhtar, Karan Johar, the Deols and Sushmita Sen.
However, noticed prominently on the occasion were only actors Rohit Roy, Jackky Bhagnani and Tahiliani.
Shilpa also delighted fans by posting a blog entry titled “This is it” on her D-day.
“Thanks for all the best wishes from family and friends…Will write to you very soon… As Shilpa Shetty Kundra. This is it,” she posted on www.shilpashettylive.com/blog Sunday morning.
Shilpa met Raj after her win on the British reality show “Big Brother” in 2007.
Shilpa’s sister, actress Shamita who was participating in the third edition of “Bigg Boss”, withdrew voluntarily from the show to attend the wedding.

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composes song as tribute to Mumbai

Mumbai, Paying tribute to Mumbai, a year after the 26/11 terror attack, singer Sonu Nigaam Wednesday unveiled a song he has composed in memory of the victims and heroes.
The song “Ungli uthe to, koi bare to, kardegi bagawat Mumbai” was unveiled exclusively at the Big FM office Wednesday.
Written by Subbu, the song has been sung by 15 singers.
“I composed this anthem because I thought if this has come my way, there must be some good reason behind it,” Sonu said.
Shankar Mahadevan, Sunidhi Chauhan, Kunal Ganjawala, Kailash Kher, Roop Kumar Rathod and Hariharan among others have sung the song.
Even Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan has lent his voice to the opening lines, before the song.

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Shahrukh Khan is a funny man: Amitabh Bachchan

New Delhi, Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan says Shah Rukh Khan left him in a jovial mood after the latter called him to confirm his presence at the premiere of upcoming film “Paa”.
“Shah Rukh has remained with me in the late afternoon. He is a very funny man and shakes me into joviality when I inform him about the premiere and his absolute presence there. He tells me, ‘He is already there, black suited and with anticipation of seeing ‘Paa’,” Amitabh posted on bigb.bigadda.com.
“Aamir too communicates today and confirms his presence,” he added.
The cast and crew of “Paa” – including Amitabh, Abhishek and director R. Balakrishnan have major plans for the film’s premiere Dec 3 in Mumbai.
Amitabh plays a 12-year-old progeria patient in “Paa” and he had to stick on several pieces of specially crafted clay to get the right look for the movie. The disease causes premature ageing among children.
International make-up artist Stephan Dupuis designed Big B’s look and the megastar had to sit for five-six hours for the make-up.
The 67-year-old says he is now anxious about how the audience and critics will react to the film.
“Slowly but surely the jig saw puzzle will begin to unfold. The test of all our hours and hours of effort at the film shall now be up for scrutiny. And within two hours and 14 minutes the verdict shall be passed. Once passed, shall remain passed. Such is the destiny of those that participate in this wondrous game of filmmaking,” he said.
The film is releasing Dec 4.

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I’m not turning producer: Katrina Kaif

Mumbai,  Katrina Kaif has denied reports of her turning producer with a remake of French film “A la folie…pas du tout” and said she is happy with the way her acting career is shaping up.
“I have no clue from where these rumours originate. It all seems to be coming out of thin air. There was never any indication by me in this regard,” Katrina told IANS.
There were reports that Katrina was playing a student in love with a married doctor in the remake of the French film “A la folie…pas du tout” (”He Loves Me…He Loves Me Not”). While she urges him to leave his pregnant wife, he doesn’t reciprocate accordingly.
“Well, sounds like an interesting story. However, any talk centred on the production of this film or any other movie for that matter is plain speculation,” the actress said.
Katrina lights up when the talk veers to the super success of “Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani”.
“Well, yes, we have got an amazing reaction for the film. Honestly, that was never really expected. Hence the way it has opened and sustained itself so well is pretty much a pleasant surprise,” said Katrina who teamed up with Ranbir Kapoor in the romantic comedy.
She is aware that now suddenly everybody feels that Katrina and Ranbir make the hottest on-screen pair and should be seen in more movies.
“Of course, if a good film comes in, I would love to do a film with Ranbir. However, I can’t just look at my co-star – I should have an amazing role, the script should be good and so should be the director. Even if one of these anchors fall down, the movie can’t be expected to fetch great results,” she said.
Katrina would be next seen in Priyadarshan’s “De Dana Dan” opposite Akshay Kumar that releases this Friday.
For someone who was written off six years ago after the release of “Boom” (2003), she has indeed come a long way with more than five hits in two years.
Does she get impacted by people’s adulation?
“Frankly, I take it all with a pinch of salt. One can never get too carried away in this industry because at the end of the day, it doesn’t achieve you anything at all. The best way is to look at the work you are doing and continue to make careful choices,” Katrina said.

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I can’t go around asking for roles: Neha Dhupia

Mumbai,  Neha Dhupia has been around for more than six years now and has done films as diverse as “Mithya” and “Julie”. But she neither believes in boasting about her body of work nor is she keen to approach leading actors and filmmakers to rope her in for their films.
“This is the way I have been throughout my career. I am not the type who would go and tell everyone what I have done in the past,” Neha told IANS.
After having debuted opposite Ajay Devgn in “Qayamat” (2003), she has worked in close to 30 movies.
“What’s the point in doing that when you have your work to speak for itself? This is not to say that I am less ambitious than anyone. I work as hard as anyone else. It’s just that I can’t serve myself on a platter,” she said.
This is the reason why she is not complaining even if she is playing a supporting role in films like “Singh Is Kinng” and just released “De Dana Dan” with Katrina Kaif as the leading lady opposite Akshay Kumar.
“There is a thin distinction between lead and supporting roles today. You may not be a romantic lead in a film, but then you have to see the kind of value you bring to a film.
“For example, when Vipul approached me for ‘Singh Is Kinng’, I asked him why he was giving me that role. When he told me that he could visualise only me to be doing that role, I took it as a backhanded compliment.”
Same held true for “De Dana Dan” where Priyadarshan felt that he could see a naughty opportunist girl in her. In the film, Neha plays a club singer who has a ‘bindaas’ attitude towards life and is a ‘huge advantage taker’.
“I am happy that he felt so. My role is quite spunky in ‘De Dana Dan’. There is a lot of spark in it.
“When it comes to commercial cinema, I have to thank people like Vipul, whose sensibilities I completely agree with, and Priyan Sir, with whom I have worked in ‘Chup Chup Ke’ and ‘Garam Masala’ earlier. They have always approached me whenever there is something good in the offing,” Neha said.
However, she has the trio of Rajat Kapoor, Saurabh Shukla and Vinay Pathak to thank for the complete shift in mindset that she went through at a crucial phase of her career.
“These are the people responsible for opening up different avenues for me. By working in movies like ‘Mithya’, ‘Raat Gayi Baat Gayi’, ‘I Am 24′ and ‘Pappu Can’t Dance Saala’, there is an altogether different dimension that I have been able to explore.
“I owe a lot to them,” said Neha who is happy to be juggling between hardcore commercial mainstream movies and new age offbeat cinema.

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Ben Kingsley’s wife might team up with Aishwarya Rai in Taj

Panaji, Actress Aishwarya Rai might be pitted against Ben Kingsley’s wife Daniela Lavender in his dream project “Taj”, a film about Mughal emperor Shah Jahan and his quest to build the Taj Mahal.
“Aishwarya Rai Bachchan will play Mumtaz in the movie, if she approves the script and loves it. Daniela would be playing Kandahari Begum, Shah Jahan’s first wife in the film,” Kingsley told reporters in Panaji Monday.
The actor, who is here as guest of honour for the 40th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), said he will play the emperor in the film.
But he feels that making “Taj” won’t be easy.
“I suppose it’s very foolish or very brave attempt to do a movie on Shah Jahan. If I can show him in a human way, if I can portray him as a man amongst us — I might be able to add to many explanations on how Taj was built,” Kingsley said.
He added that the script had arrived less than a week ago and that he would be scouting in India for funds for his $25 to $27 million project.
“During my few days in India, we have to raise funds. It’s not fully financed,” said Kingsley who drew accolades from the world over for his portrayal of Mahatma Gandhi in Richard Attenborough’s highly acclaimed film “Gandhi”.

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Priyanka Chopra bags best actress at Apsara Awards

Mumbai, Bollywood actress Priyanka Chopra bagged the best actress award for Madhur Bhandarkar’s “Fashion” at the Apsara Film and Television Producers Guild Awards here Friday evening.

Priyanka’s father Ashok Chopra received the award on her behalf.

“Oh, I am so happy for her. She has done it again. And getting an award from the patriarch and creators of the film industry is a great thing,” Ashok Chopra told IANS.

Hrithik Roshan was presented the best actor award for Ashutosh Gowariker’s “Jodhaa Akbar”.

The fourth edition of the Apsara Film and Television Producers Guild Awards, which honour excellence in cinema and television was held at a five-star hotel here.

Aamir Khan won two awards – best film and best director – for his directorial debut “Taare Zameen Par”.

Actor Imran Khan, Anil Kapoor, Kangna Ranaut, director Yash Chopra, screenwriter Amole Gupte and Prasoon Joshi attended the event. Oscar-award wining actor Sir Ben Kingsley was also present.

The fourth edition was postponed last year as a mark of respect to the victims of the 26/11 tragedy. The awards for 2009 will be distributed by the Producers’ Guild of India Dec 20.

The Guild jury, including Ravi Chopra, Ketan Desai, and Vashu Bhagnani, had chosen the winners.

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Bhansali bends rules for Aishwarya Rai

Mumbai, Director Sanjay Leela Bhansali is known to be a stickler for strict schedules during filming, but he is voluntarily giving Aishwarya Rai a few days break from the shooting of “Guzaarish” so that she can attend the premiere of “Paa” that has her husband and father-in-law in lead roles.
“It’s no big deal. Adjusting my schedule is the least I can do for someone who has been a dear friend for many years. But this was not done for Aishwarya. It was for ‘Paa’ and Amitji. It’s a very special moment for the family,” Bhansali told IANS.
Releasing Friday, “Paa” is produced by AB Corp. The film is about a father-son-son-father relationship – while Abhishek Bachchan plays a politician, Amitabh will be seen as his 13-year-old son suffering from progeria, a disease that accelerates the ageing process.
While Aishwarya will play a perfect host at the “Paa” premeire Dec 3 here, Bhansali will shoot solo scenes with the film’s leading man Hrithik Roshan.
“Aishwarya is not just Sanjay’s leading lady. After doing three films together, they are family. Sanjay saw how stressed Aishawarya was trying to balance her tight schedules for ‘Guzaarish’ with the time required to pitch in with real-life pa for ‘Paa’.
“In fact, Mr. Bachchan has been running around alone inviting the film fraternity for the premiere on December 3 since Abhishek has been shooting non-stop in Goa for Ashutosh Gowariker and Jayaji is in Delhi attending parliament,” said a friend of Bhansali and Aishwarya.
“When she expressed her helplessness about not being available for Amitji to make arrangements for the premiere, Sanjay made up his mind to give her those crucial days on and before the premiere off, although it meant considerable schedule adjustment on his part,” added the friend.
Aishwarya has been juggling her “Guzaarish” schedule with her duties as a hostess for family events to the best of her abilities. On Saturday evening she was present as an integral part of the Bachchan family with husband Abhishek, sister-in-law Shweta and the Big’s B bother Ajitabh Bachchan’s kids for a poetry reading on Harivansh Rai Bachchan’s birth anniversary.
“She had little time to prepare her poems. But she recited Harivansh Rai Bachchan’s lines like a true Bachchan,” said a close friend of Aishwarya.

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Manisha Koirala makes a comeback in Nepal film industry

Thursday, Dec 10, 2009

Kathmandu, Actress Manisha Koirala, who left her home and the Nepali film industry two decades ago to carve out a niche in Bollywood, is now poised to make a comeback in Nepali films with “Rajniti”.
The 39-year-old actor, who comes from one of the best known political families of Nepal, has agreed to play the lead in a new Nepali film that is being produced by former politician and women’s right activist Durga Pokhrel whose career took a downturn after she decided to join forces with Nepal’s deposed king Gyanendra.
Manisha, who made her screen debut with a Nepali film – “Pheri Bhetaula” (We will meet again) – will now be back in Kathmandu to act in “Rajniti”, a film on contemporary political issues being directed by young Nepali director Dipendra Kumar Khanal.
Like politics, Khanal brought a twist to his film this week when the muhurat was done by another Bollywood star, and former Congress MP, Govinda.
“I have decided to give politics a wide berth but “Rajniti” is not leaving me,” quipped a smiling Govinda who last year announced he was quitting politics to concentrate on films.
Govinda and his wife Sunita, who is from Nepal, were the guests of honour at the programme when the first song of the film was recorded Wednesday.
Bengali singer Shobha Banerjee was flown in to sing the songs.
Though Manisha herself was away in Mumbai, her mother Sushma Koirala attended the function.
Pokhrel, a human rights activist, shot to fame after being jailed during the pro-democracy movement in 1990.
Also a former chief of the Women’s Commission, Pokhrel’s career however began sagging after she agreed to support King Gyanendra who in 2005 sought to seize absolute power with the help of the army.
Pokhrel was minister for women, children and social welfare in the royal cabinet for a brief while.
Manisha’s father Prakash Koirala too supported the king and was the science and technology minister in the royal cabinet.
During the controversial municipal election called by the king in 2006 but boycotted by all the major parties, Manisha had flown down to Kathmandu from Mumbai to campaign for her father’s party.
In retaliation, the Maoist guerrillas, who were fighting an armed battle to end monarchy, announced a ban on her films in Nepal and set fire to posters at a theatre screening a Hindi film starring the Nepali actor.
Though Manisha is one of the best known Nepalis outside Nepal, the news of her comeback has so far met with lukewarm response.
While her entry in Bollywood took off with Subhash Ghai’s “Saudagar”, Manisha’s Nepal ventures have however consistently flopped. “Pheri Bhetaula” was not completed while a second ambitious project she signed – the Nepali remake of the Bollywood classic “Mother India” – never took off.
Her plan to open a film city in Nepal also remains canned after the sea change in Nepal’s politics and the fall in grace of the royalists following the abolition of monarchy.
While Manisha supported monarchy, her grandfather B.P. Koirala, the first elected prime minister of Nepal, was sacked and jailed by the then king of Nepal for supporting democracy.
Manisha’s aunt Sujata Koirala is the current deputy prime minister and foreign minister of Nepal.

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I am not Hot and Sexy – Katrina Kaif

Mumbai,  She has given maximum hits in the past two years, and now Katrina Kaif has been voted the sexiest Asian actress by Eastern Eye. But she claims that she is just like any other working girl trying to make a living here.
“Me? Hot and sexy? Nah. People should see me at home. I’m painfully unglamorous. Just another working girl making a living,” Katrina told IANS.
Commenting on reports about buying new house, she said: “I know, I’ve been reading about relocating my home. I admit I’ve looked at a few properties. But nothing seriously.
“Though it’s a little noisy on my street I’m too attached to the place I stay in. I’m also too lazy to make a move. Yes, I’ll need a bigger place when my sister Isabelle joins me. But right now she’s studying acting in the US. There’s still time.”
So is she planning to move into a new home?
“Not at all. I’ve always wanted a home by the sea, but I love my current home too much. So no plans of moving,” she said.
The actress recently featured in hits “Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani” and “De Dana Dan”, but says she has no plans of sign any new films yet.
“It’s very sweet of directors to mention my name in forthcoming projects. I feel privileged. But I haven’t said yes to anything new. At the moment I’ve cut my workload by half because of my ill health,” said the actress who recently underwent a minor surgery.

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I’m done with trying to be someone I’m not – Vidya Balan

Mumbai, After receiving flak from critics, Vidya Balan has now managed to impress them with her performance in “Paa”. The actress is now looking forward to “Ishqiya” and “Chenaab Gandhi” to strengthen her position and says she won’t do roles she doesn’t identify with.

“Isn’t that amazing? It’s taken a lot of getting used to. But I feel blessed. I’m done with trying to be someone I’m not,” Vidya, who will be seen as Amitabh Bachchan’s daughter in “Chenaab Gandhi”, told IANS.

“I went through a period of tremendous turmoil when I was struggling to do roles that didn’t come naturally to me. But now in hindsight I think that confusion helped me pick ‘Paa’, ‘Ishqiya’ and ‘Chenaab Gandhi’. It’s gratifying to know today directors think of me for specific roles and not just as one of many choices.”

Vidya became an overnight sensation after her debut film “Parineeta” (2005), but later earned flak for her clothes in “Heyy Babyy” and for doing a film like “Kismat Konnection”.

Thanks to director R. Balakrishnan’s “Paa”, in which she plays a single mother whose son suffers from progeria, a disease that accelerates the ageing process, she has regained past glory.

Though she played a perfect mother in “Heyy Babyy” and “Paa”, Vidya can’t get along with kids in real life.

“If I hold a baby for a while I get stressed. In ‘Heyy Babyy’, the baby would bawl every time I had to carry it. In ‘Paa’, I had to mother a man who was far older. It took a lot of getting used to. The fact that Mr. Bachchan kept referring to me as ‘Maa’ as soon he entered the sets, sure helped,” she said.

A lot is being said about her aesthetic clothes in “Paa”.

“All thanks to Sabyasachi Mukherjee I think he understood my body language and my personality perfectly. And he dressed me up beautifully without overstepping the parameters of my character.”

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Shahid, Abhay, Priyanka act their way to top

Mumbai, There weren’t too many hits this year, but actors like Shahid Kapoor, Abhay Deol and Priyanka Chopra not only rose above the script but gave performances that towered above the rest.

Here is a list of 10 actors who made a mark in 2009:

Shahid Kapoor: It will be quite a predicament for the awards organisers as they will have to nominate Shahid Kapoor as ‘Best Actor’ and also ‘Best Actor In A Negative Role’ for “Kaminey”! The young actor came of age with the film.

Abhay Deol: Abhay Deol has finally carved an independent market for himself. The only hero in the industry today who is a non-conformist, he is getting good recognition. This guy certainly knows that even without serenading heroines around trees or bashing 10 goons at a time, he can find an audience for himself.

Amitabh Bachchan: Time and again Amitabh Bachchan has proved that he is not going away. For someone who has been trapped in his own image for three decades, delivering a lovable and heart-warming performance as a child in “Paa” is a refreshing change.

Ranbir Kapoor: Ranbir Kapoor has really cleared the way for other star sons with a series of flawless acts. The next time a star son gets an opportunity to get an author-backed role, let’s not complain.

Priyanka Chopra: First, she impressed with her deglamorised role in “Kaminey” and later by playing it all, from a wannabe NRI to a wannabe model to an imposing super business woman to a sexed up ’sadhvi’ in “What’s Your Raashee?”. After “Fashion”, Priyanka came up with a performance that deserves an award of the highest order.

Neil Nitin Mukesh: Through sheer body language and mannerisms, Neil gave an excellent account of himself in both “New York” and “Jail”. He depicted varied emotions, from being subdued to getting sudden bouts of aggression to helplessness to final redemption. Neil is now bound to be taken far more seriously.

Saif Ali Khan: Saif, who has been quite reliable for the last seven-eight years at least, played completely diverse characters in “Love Aaj Kal” and “Kurbaan”. It not only proves that he is willing to experiment and but also has range.

Salman Khan: One may argue if “Wanted” is Salman’s career best performance ever. Still, it is one film where Salman went all out in at least ‘being interested’ in the film. He wasn’t taking his stardom for granted or being careless about his looks. Most importantly, he wasn’t looking bored.

John Abraham: John Abraham can finally do away with his swimming trunks or showing his body beautiful for the next few years. His acting potential has finally been tapped, as evidenced by the career best performance he delivered in “New York”. He did exceedingly well to bring a lump in the throat.

Kareena Kapoor: “Kurbaan” wasn’t an easy film to do for Kareena because of its theme of a closet terrorist and betrayal in love. The film saw her doing quite well in bringing in varied emotions like love, shock, helplessness, despair, disgust and horror.

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Failure scares me, it breaks my heart – Priyanka Chopra

Mumbai, Priyanka Chopra, one of the most sought after actresses in the Hindi film industry, says she is sacred of failure and that she reels under a ‘flop’ for a long time.

“Failure is something that scares me a lot. And failure of a film not only disappoints me, it breaks my heart because I put in lot of efforts in all my films,” Priyanka told reporters at the success party of Arindam Chaudhuri’s book “Discover The Diamond In You” at the JW Marriot Hotel here over the weekend.

“Every time a film doesn’t do well, I mourn for at least three weeks. It takes me really a long time to get out of it.”

Priyanka is impressed by Chaudhuri’s book.

“I think success is very important. In this concise book of only 59 pages, professor Chaudhuri has given a fantastic explanation on how in nine different ways one can make himself a successful human being,” said Priyanka.

“Discover The Diamond In You” is Chaudhuri’s third book after “Count Your Chickens Before They Are Hatched” and “The Great Indian Dreams”.

He says that he wanted to to reach out to more people with the book.

“I’m a teacher. The need to reach out to more people than those in my classroom made me write this book,” Arindam told IANS.

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My Name Is Khan not about terrorism – Karan Johar

Mumbai,Putting speculations to rest, director-producer Karan Johar said that his forthcoming film “My Name Is Khan”, that has Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol in main leads, has nothing to do with terrorism.
“‘My Name is Khan’ has nothing to do with terrorism. It is not a terrorism-based plot at all. It is a humanitarian tale about love and sacrifice,” Karan told reporters after unveiling the first look of “My Name Is Khan” at JW Marriot Hotel here Wednesday.
The film’s story revolves around Rizwan Khan (Shah Rukh) who suffers from Asperger syndrome, a form of autism. Rizwan falls in love with a single mother Mandira (Kajol) who lives in San Francisco. Rizwan is detained by authorities at Los Angeles International Airport, mistaking his disability for “suspicious” behaviour.
“It is about overcoming a phase, it is about triumph of the human spirit,” said Karan.
Shah Rukh and Karan’s last outing together “Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna” (2006) couldn’t spell magic at the box office.
But the superstar seems to be pretty impressed with Karan’s work in “My Name Is Khan” and said that the film is the ultimate evolution of the director’s work.
“I have worked with Karan in his first film (’Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’) and has been with him all through his journey. I think ‘My Name Is Khan’ is his ultimate evolution,” said Shah Rukh.
“In this film, the way Karan has touched upon the scenes and sequences, it is very different from his all previous films,” he added.
The film is slated to release Feb 12 next year.

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Deepika Padukone unveils Kingfisher’s 2010 calendar

Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone Sunday unveiled the 2010 edition of Kingfisher’s swimsuit special calendar.

“In the beginning of my career, I was a part of the calendar and it’s becoming better every year. Girls in this calendar have done a fantastic job,” said Deepika, who figured in the 2006 calendar.

“It’s of international standards and it’s one of the best calendars in the world,” she added.

Asked if featuring in the calendar was a good platform to enter Bollywood, Deepika said: “Well, I didn’t use it as a platform to enter the film industry, so I wouldn’t say that. You can’t be a model to be an actor. That’s not what I did. But yes, Farah noticed me as a model and then decided to cast me in ‘Om Shanti Om’.”

“I am very proud of 2010 edition of the Kingfisher swimsuit special,” said Vijay Mallya, UB group chairman before the calendar was unveiled at his palatial home.

Mallya said the calendar has given an opportunity to many young models from India and the world, and he hoped to continue the trend.

Noted photographer Atul Kasbekar has taken the photographs for the calendar

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Aamir Khan joins Punjabi wedding ceremony, Surprized everyone

Faridkot, Punjab (BollywoodWorld.com) Village-girl Ramandeep Kaur in Punjab’s border district of Faridkot did not have anything in common with well-known cricketer Sourav Ganguly till Saturday. Not until Aamir Khan, disguised as a documentary filmmaker from abroad, landed up at her village on the eve of her wedding.

The bride and her family of Churchak village near Jagraon could not in their wildest dreams imagine that the disguised filmmaker was none other than the Bollywood star until he told them so himself.

The actor had last week played a similar prank at Ganguly’s house after he landed up in Kolkata disguised as a fan of the former Indian cricket captain.

Dressed as a hippie-looking foreigner visiting India for documentary filmmaking, Aamir attended the pre-wedding celebrations in Kaur’s village near Jagraon town, 250 km from Chandigarh.

“Aamir Khan came to the wedding functions. Initially, we were told that he was a documentary maker. When his real identity was revealed, there was even greater joy and excitement in the household and the entire village,” Ramandeep’s father Jasvir Singh told IANS Sunday.

Ramandeep’s wedding to groom Gurjit Singh was solemnised Sunday as per Sikh religious rites.

The winter chill of north India did not stop Aamir from being part of the rural wedding ceremonies Saturday night for over two hours despite having reported sick just a day earlier at Jaipur.

The trip, of course, was part of Aamir’s ongoing promotion of his yet to be released film “3 Idiots”.

“Some people approached us a few days back that someone wanted to shoot a rural wedding. That person came as a commoner and was treated as any other guest. Only later we were told that he is Aamir Khan,” said Jasvir Singh, a farmer and landlord.

The actor not only sang and danced with men and women at the wedding but also ate dinner with them. He even gifted a ring to the bride after the ‘Mehendi’ ceremony.

He left only past midnight – perhaps headed for another undisclosed location in disguise.

But before doing that, he did not forget to invite the new couple to come to Mumbai for the premiere of his latest film later this week – this being his wedding gift for the honeymooners.

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to celebrate New Year on ship

Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty who is back from her honeymoon from the Bahamas with London-based businessman husband Raj Kundra is still on holiday mode. She is preparing to celebrate Christmas in London and New Year on a cruise in the Mediterranean.

“Back to reality, the last couple of weeks felt like a dream — from the sunny Bahamas back in London for the last couple of days… There’s no place like London when it comes to celebrating Christmas,” Shilpa posted on her blog shilpsshettylive.com/blog Saturday.

“Really excited about the Mediterranean cruise we are taking with the family, my first ever making it even more special. I will be out at sea for the next two weeks… Will be bringing in New Year on the ship,” she added.

“Here’s wishing everyone a merry Christmas and a fantastic love filled, healthy and prosperous New Year ahead,” she wrote.

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Veer – Music Review

Film: “Veer”
Music Directors: Sajid-Wajid
Lyricist: Gulzar
Singers: Sukhwinder Singh, Sonu Niigaam, Wajid, Neuman Pinto, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Suzanne D’Mello, Roop Kumar Rathod, Shreya Ghoshal, Rekha Bhardwaj, Sharib Sabri, Toshi Sabri, Shabaab Sabri and Sunidhi Chauhan
Rating: ***

Composer brothers Sajid-Wajid have come up with one of their best works in Salman Khan’s period drama “Veer”. The soundtrack boasts of eight songs and the music is melodious, hummable and is an interesting bouquet of various genres.

It starts with “Taali”, a song brilliantly crooned by Sukhwinder Singh, Sonu Niigaam, Wajid and Neuman Pinto. The power-packed track gives the album an edge and a positive start. It is hard-hitting and makes the listener sit up and take notice.

The song also has a solo version by Sukhwinder and it has been sung with a lot of punch.

Up next is a total contrast to Rahat Fateh Ali Khan’s mushy track “Surili akhiyon wale”. It is melodious and extremely pleasing to the ears. It also has English verses by Suzanne D’Mello, something similar to the song “O ri chhori” in “Lagaan”. It’s surely a likeable number and will make an impact.

It also has an extended version with Sunidhi Chauhan, who sings it in a way unlike her original style.

Then there is “Salaam aaya”, currently doing the rounds of television channels. The romantic song, which has Roop Kumar Rathod, Shreya Ghoshal and Suzanne D’Mello behind the mike, is a soft, light and pleasing number. It is worth a hear.

Next in line is Sonu Niigaam’s “Meherbaniyaan”. It starts with a long prelude and orchestration powers over the vocals. The fast-paced number is average and offers nothing great.

Then we have a very likeable track in “Kanha”, a thumri sung by Rekha Bhardwaj with ample support from Shahab, Toshi and Sharib Sabri. This is one of the best tracks in the album. A song of this genre has been incorporated in a film after a long time. A must hear.

Finally, there is an instrumental piece called the “Spirit of Veer”.

On the whole, Sajid-Wajid have made an effort to make the album different and they have succeeded in doing so.

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Fardeen Khan and Sushmita Sen at bash of upcoming movie Dulha Mil Gaya

 Bollywood actors Fardeen Khan and Sushmita Sen at the bash of upcoming movie “Dulha Mil Gaya” at Olive in Mumbai.

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Shah Rukh Khan and Amitabh Bachchan at the premier of Avataar

Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan and Amitabh Bachchan at the premier of Hollywood movie “Avataar” at INOX.

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Aamir Khan bowled over by Kareena Kapoor

New Delhi, Aamir Khan can’t stop praising Kareena Kapoor’s acting skills and her looks. The actor says he couldn’t have asked for a better co-star than her for his forthcoming film “3 Idiots”.
“Kareena is outstanding… an instinctive actress, extremely committed, a team player… we get along well. And she’s good looking… what more can one ask for?” Aamir said in a press statement.
Directed by Rajkumar Hirani, “3 Idiots” also features Sharman Joshi and R. Madhavan. It is releasing Friday.

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Aamir Khan and Kareena Kapoor kiss in 3 Idiots film

Aamir Khan and Kareena Kapoor will share a long and passionate kiss in the film 3 idiots. There will be 3 Kisses in 3 Idiots and all 3 are between Aamir and Kareena Kapoor. The first is a flying kiss, the second a kiss on the cheek and the third is a full-fledged smooch.

Even though Kareena, Aamir and director Raju Hirani are tight-lipped, an insider source confirmed the news. Aamir generally does not have such kissing scenes in his films and this will be something to watch out for.

Fifteen years back Aamir had done a similar kissing sequence with Kareena’s sister Karisma Kapoor in “Raja Hindustani”, which had made much news at that time.
Will see if the Aamir-Kareena smooch will be as hot as the one in Raja Hindustani with Karisma Kapoor.

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Kaif Hot Picture

1.2.

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Katrina on her way to Recovery!

Everyone's favourite diva is in need of all the best wishes and prayers as she makes her recovery from a minor surgery that took place at Breach Candy Hospital. The surgery seemed to have been indeed minor as she was admitted on Wednesday night and was discharged on Thursday.

Speaking to the media about the surgery, her spokesperson stated, "Katrina has just been discharged from Breach Candy Hospital and is completely fine now. Because of her system's low haemoglobin level, she had to undergo a small surgical procedure. She's resting at home, after which she will take off for her annual Christmas break".

The actress has indeed had a very busy 2009 with the releases of De Dhana Dhan, Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani, New York and Blue! Next up she'll be seen in a political role for Prakash Jha's political thriller ‘Rajneeti' in which she'll be seen with Ajay Devgan, Ranbir Kapoor, Nana Patekar, Arjun Rampal and Manoj Bajpai.

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"De Dana Dan is funnier, faster, and more flamboyant than ever" - Akshay Kumar

De Dana Dan, which opens this weekend, is Akshay Kumar's 5th release this year. While the other big heroes have cut back to one or two big films a year, Akshay has really earned the title, shared by singer James Brown, as the "the hardest working man in show business." He's come a long way from his action hero days as Mr. Bond and the Khiladi and his films encompass everything from action to romance to comedy to serious drama. De Dana Dan is a return to the comedic heights of 2001's Hera Pheri, as Akshay reunites with Suniel Shetty and director Priyadarshan. Added to this winning combination is his lucky charm, actress Katrina Kaif.

Akshay Kumar spoke exclusively with BollySpice.com about his new film, his old films, and the secret of his success. He even let us in on something he fears but you have to read on to find out what that is!

What made you say yes to the role in De Dana Dan (DDD)?

It's a Priyadarshan movie and for me, when it comes to one of his movies, you don't need a reason or an attraction, nothing like that; you just need faith.

Tell us the story of De Dana Dan from your character's point of view.

Well, I am actually playing my own 'Man Friday' Nitin Bankar. Both Sunil and I are portraying our helpers, the boys that have been with us from the start of our careers, who we can't live without. Now it's my turn. I am a cook, cleaner, driver, gardener, servant, maid, dog walker, puppet boy for a rich selfish woman that is so stingy she refuses to even buy me a new uniform in over 20 years. (After playing this character I definitely gave all my staff a lovely bonus this Diwali). My girlfriend (Katrina Kaif) will only marry me if I have money. Obviously, I don't have two pennies to rub together and can't blame her, it's not the most attractive job in the world. So Sunil and I have a brain wave, which ultimately back fires and creates the funniest climax I have shot to this day.

Working with Priyadarshan seems to be a good luck charm for you - where does that good chemistry come from? Is it the scripts that he chooses, or his style of direction, or something else?

Everything you just said and more! Apart from the fact I get such a kick out of working for a comedy genius, there is no one like him. He's the fastest director in the business. Priyanji has such a strong team working for him. His shots are set up in minutes, he knows what he wants, he gets it and moves on, next minute he's already reciting you his next script and bam your shooting for his next film before you've even released his last one... You ask no questions. He tells me what to wear, where to stand, what to say, and when to jump, and I happily oblige. I trust him completely. As we speak I am in a village shooting his next film. I'm on the 5th day and still have no idea about what's going to happen in the film. One must surrender themselves as an actor to him, and that's what I love about the man, he's passionate about his films.
 
What makes De Dana Dan different from any other Priyadarshan movie?

Honestly, how Priyanji has done it no one knows, but DDD is funnier, faster, and more flamboyant than ever, if you sneeze once your doomed. You don't want to miss a single shot, don't blink, don't even let your father pull his socks up, switch your mobiles off and make sure you go to the bathroom before you enter the cinema. No toilet breaks allowed in this movie I'm afraid (unless you want to be left behind). It's a movie for the masses, one that you must bring your entire family to along with your brains, or you'll be lost and left still laughing at the first gag ;o)...

Do you worry it will be compared to Hera Pheri?

The only thing DDD has in common with Hera Pheri is the genius director Priyadarshan, his extremely clever plots, insane script, the famous threesome of course, and the unforgettable catchy toe tapping songs, the rest is a mystery!!

What inspires you to do comedy?

I know what makes people happy and that's non-offensive belly-aching laughter appreciated by all. I enjoy being a part of that and that's what Priyadarshan movies are all about.

How do you approach your roles, especially the comedy ones, to make each one different?

As an actor for me versatility means the most. You have to give your audience all you can, not bore them with the same old punch and kick. That's why I have tried my hand at every genre out there, and you need to be able to have fun with it especially in a comic role.

What do you think works so well in your chemistry with Katrina?

There is no secret, no magic formula, great co-stars stem from the same tree as friendships and relationships, "trust, effort, understanding". Kat 'trusts' me, I think her 'effort' is outstanding as I know she thinks the same of mine, and we 'understand' each other really well for some reason. We are so comfortable, our work is so pure and that shows on camera.

How has she grown as an actress?

She definitely has gone from strength to strength and I think the reason for that is that her background is a great asset to her. She's grounded, easy going, not fake at all, knows how to have a good laugh, all these things help make her the perfect heroine to work with. Now enough of me being sweet, let's get back to me being a funny man. ;o)

Tell us something we don't know about Katrina. Tell us something we don't know about you.

Ah don't make me praise her again... I tell you what this is the last compliment I'm giving her in this interview ;o). She is a much stronger and determined woman than people will ever really know. She will get on the back of a water ski with me, petrified but she will not stop until our shot is perfect. Most heroines would never get back up after falling flat on their face in the water in front of 200 on lookers, but Kat is brave as well as sweet about it. And me, I love jumping off roofs but I hate merry go rounds - they are my worst fear in life, now don't laugh...

You are working once again with Sunil Shetty and Paresh Rawal. Tell us about the experience with working with them.

It is great as always. I don't know what it is but we just all have such wicked chemistry together, and I think that's what you guys see when we perform. It's too much fun. When Priyadarshan puts 26 comedians and a dog together we're like a well behaved circus riot, we love it - it's the way it should be. 
 
What will audiences love about De Dana Dan?

It's aimed at one and all - you have the classic actors, the heroes, the beauties, the characters, the songs, the laughs, the awaited climax, the comedy, the romance, the fights, the drama, and the sad story, but mainly it's full of laughs. What more could you want from the lucky trio and there favourite director!?!?! It's for everyone, from your new born baby and their dummies to your great grand parents and their fake teeth, it's for the family. ;o)


What do you think makes you a good actor?

What can I say, I'm just very talented. ;o) No, no I'm kidding. Seriously, I think you just have to be 200% committed and dedicated to what you want to achieve and you need to really want it - that passion is what drives you forward. It takes more than talent to make it in life. First you have to actually be a great person then people will want to work with you. Then you give your life to becoming the best. All these things I have done. I may be high up now, but look at all I have done to get here, years and years of pushing.

What do you find hardest about acting?

About acting - the confidence to handle a million pressures on and off set. The acting is great, it's the baggage that comes with acting that takes it's toll on us - being an actor, my family being hurt or suffering because I'm in the limelight and of my dedication to my work.

What have you learned over your years as an actor?

What haven't I learned!? I see my whole career as being a transition period. There's no learning curve as such because things are constantly changing, I never stop learning. You've all seen my highs and lows, but you wouldn't appreciate the highs if you had never felt the lows. But this is just the beginning. I have many more ups and downs to come. My best lesson was learning to look after my fans, without you I wouldn't have a job would I!?!
 
Your favorite role you have played is . . . ?

Ohh how do I choose?! Well the success of the Khiladi films is what made me love cinema even more, so I owe my career to those movies so they have to be my favourite.

Although the fans appreciate every film, the critics can be so negative. How do you keep from letting those bad feelings affect you?

Well it's not a secret that this industry is TOUGH and you need to have a thick skin to be able to deal with the (sometimes harsh) criticisms that come your way. Some of it can be constructive though so I know when to take on board certain things and that's when I put my hands up and say, "I'm sorry, I promise to do better next time". But my family is there to help me get through anything that is thrown at me so that helps of course.

Tashan has developed a cult following online. Is there any film of yours that you think should be a cult classic, or was overlooked by fans and deserves another chance?

I'm not sure, but the thing is I respect the voice of the fans as its them I'm making movies for so if they haven't recognized something then I appreciate it, take on what they are saying and try to make it better for next time. Sometimes I think what happens, especially with movies that break the tradition of a typical Bollywood Masala film, is that it is not fully understood and then it doesn't communicate properly to the audiences.

Your fans would like to see you in more action as well as more romance. What do you prefer?

I don't think I have a preference, I want to be involved in every role possible. I obviously enjoy doing stunt scenes and I'm a bit of an adrenaline junkie so being an action hero suits me just fine. After the success of my action films, I felt I needed to prove to myself and my audiences out there that I can play a number of roles and show my versatility as an actor. I hope that the audience sees that in me now, seeing as they like that romantic and comedy side of me. For me, I love comedy too much.

What do you have coming up next?

I am shooting right now for another Priyadarshan movie called Khatta Meetha in a village in India. I'm also finishing off Vipul Shah's Action Replay. I've just completed Sajid Khan's House Full. Not forgetting De Dana Dan's release on the 27th of this month, my last release of this year!!!

Do you have a message to your fans?

Just thank you so much. It's for them that I do this and I try to put all my effort into what I do to make them happy and they have been great. Their support is unbelievable and I can't express how much I appreciate it. It helps me through the hard times and makes the good times even better. I just hope I can continue to deliver for them.

We know he will continue to deliver because no matter what role Akshay takes on you can tell he puts his heart and soul into it and becomes the character. He is one of the finest actors in Hindi cinema and has that rare ability to do it all action, romance, drama and of course comedy all while lookin' fine! Be sure and check out Akshay in his comedy avatar in De Dana Dan, which opens today! As he said, "DDD is funnier, faster, and more flamboyant than ever, if you sneeze once your doomed", so make sure not to even blink and get lost in the magic of Akki-Priyadarshan and the rest of the the DDD team! We would like to thank Mr. Kumar for taking the time to answer our questions and wish him all the best!

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