Wednesday 27 April 2011
Sonakshi Sinha's extra baggage
Sonakshi Sinha has managed to make everyone curious. Apparently she carries a spare pair of clothes in her bag all the time.
We can't help wondering why she needs an extra set of clothes. The only two places she goes to are her shoot and Salman Khan's home.
Now either she doesn't want to do the walk-of-shame to her house the morning after, or she is really paranoid about having a wardrobe malfaction. Whatever the case, we want this mystery solved.
We can't help wondering why she needs an extra set of clothes. The only two places she goes to are her shoot and Salman Khan's home.
Now either she doesn't want to do the walk-of-shame to her house the morning after, or she is really paranoid about having a wardrobe malfaction. Whatever the case, we want this mystery solved.
I am not your boyfriend Mahesh tells Meera
This could have been a scene from a film, had we not been holding a telephone, listening to every word being exchanged. After alleging that producer-director Mahesh Bhatt ruined her Bollywood career, Pakistani actress Meera landed at Mukesh Bhatt's office in Mumbai on Tuesday afternoon to congratulate him, and even indirectly asked for work from the brothers.
However, Mahesh, who already knew of Meera's allegations, confronted her, but the actress immediately denied everything saying that she was "joking with Bhattsaab".
She told us, "Maine kissi se baat nahi ki hai. Yahan toh sirf mazaak ho raha hai. Mazaak kar rahi thi mein Bhattsaab ke saath. Everything is ok – koi masla nahi hai. Maine bahot sikha hai Bhattsaab se... mere teacher hain, mere guru hain. Main bahut izzat karti hoon unki." She also told us that she can instantly summon the Pakistan media to issue a clarification, and added, "Main Pakistan ke saare newspapers ko do minute mein laa sakti hoon... Maine hamesha yeh kaha hai ki main inki izzat karti hoon. Meri zindagi mein inka role bahut important raha hai. Inhi ki wajah se main India aayi aur mujhe kaam karne ka mauka mila."
However, Bhatt was quite furious and told us, "She has an absolutely selective kind of memory about things she says. She fantasises a wrong and believes it's true. It's strange you asked me this morning and saw the candour with which I answered. And after that, she comes here. Tell me, can a person who is beaten by someone come to their office like this? Now she wants to do a press conference saying I did not beat her up, and says she did it for publicity. I do not understand this. She's absolutely dangerous and I possibly cannot give her work. She's deranged."
He also told Meera, "Main tumhara boyfriend nahi hoon jo tum mere saath aise khel sakti ho. Tum yahan meri zimmedari ho aur maine tumhe yahan sirf protect karne ki nazar se dekha hai. Tumko meri maa maine sirf yeh kaha ki Mumbai mein yahan wahan mat jao kyunki tumko log istmaal karenge aur kaam bhi nahi denge. Tum koi meri girlfriend ho jo main tumhe rokun? Jahan marji jao. Thappad tumko marna chahiye jo maine tumko kabhi mara nahi." At this point she told him, "Toh maar lijiye." He also told her that she must go see a psychiatrist, and added, "Main tumse illtajah kar raha hoon ki doctor se ja kar milo. Tumko zehani level pe thodi si ilaaj ki zaroorat hai. Main tumko le jaonga doctor ke paas." He later told us that she's even offered him a Pakistani show titled "Kaun Banega Meera Pati".
However, a while later Meera called us and said, "Jab maine woh interview diya tha, badi friendly way mein baatein hui thi, main thoda emotional ho gayi thi. But Bhatttsaab is my guru, maine bahut seekha hai unse. Mere teacher bhi hain. Jab aap kaam karte hain, bahut sari cheezen hoti hain, aap emotionally involved bhi hote hain. Aap hurt bhi hote hain.."
Meera needs medical help & counselling
At a time when one is running from pillar to post with like minded people from both India and Pakistan to obtain a pardon for Dr Chishti, an eighty-year-old Pakistani national holed up in an Indian jail on a life sentence, comes this frivolous, irresponsible and heart breaking allegation by Meera to the Indian press.
This is not the first time that Meera has maligned me publicly. A few years ago she had made similar and bizarre allegations against me in an Urdu daily in Pakistan. Inspite of my well wishers begging me to reprimand her for that, and to distance myself from her, I chose to be magnanimous and play down her actions, as they come from a mind that is not stable. I always felt sorry for her, and felt that she needs medical help and counselling. I still feel the same.
The reason I stand up for myself today is because I don't want any kind of trivia to obscure the more serious issues that I am currently engaged with.
I hope the media in India and Pakistan will state my position in totality, if and when these bizarre and totally unfounded allegations she has made against me are reproduced by them in their media.
Meera's a nutcase
I introduced this girl seven years ago in "Nazar" and I am the one who introduced her to Mahesh Bhatt. Little did we know then that we were entering into unknown territories with a mad woman. She's a nutcase; a madwoman. If I use the word insane, I wouldn't be too far from the truth. In fact, I'd go as far to say that she's schizophrenic. She says something and then she says something else. This is the case with her for the last seven years. She's tried to defame a man who I have known for 20 years – a credible man like Mahesh Bhatt. Meera will do anything for publicity. She denied everything when I called her. I introduced her to a reporter six years ago and she said she was 24. Someone recently asked her age, and she still said she's 24. Bhatt's wife (Soni Razdan) may take legal action; I just spoke to Soni. Meera's got a film coming out in Pakistan and she's using everything for publicity. Mahesh and I have been working for Indo-Pak peace for the last 10 years.
Sevy Ali, The producer who introduced Meera to Bhatt
However, Mahesh, who already knew of Meera's allegations, confronted her, but the actress immediately denied everything saying that she was "joking with Bhattsaab".
She told us, "Maine kissi se baat nahi ki hai. Yahan toh sirf mazaak ho raha hai. Mazaak kar rahi thi mein Bhattsaab ke saath. Everything is ok – koi masla nahi hai. Maine bahot sikha hai Bhattsaab se... mere teacher hain, mere guru hain. Main bahut izzat karti hoon unki." She also told us that she can instantly summon the Pakistan media to issue a clarification, and added, "Main Pakistan ke saare newspapers ko do minute mein laa sakti hoon... Maine hamesha yeh kaha hai ki main inki izzat karti hoon. Meri zindagi mein inka role bahut important raha hai. Inhi ki wajah se main India aayi aur mujhe kaam karne ka mauka mila."
However, Bhatt was quite furious and told us, "She has an absolutely selective kind of memory about things she says. She fantasises a wrong and believes it's true. It's strange you asked me this morning and saw the candour with which I answered. And after that, she comes here. Tell me, can a person who is beaten by someone come to their office like this? Now she wants to do a press conference saying I did not beat her up, and says she did it for publicity. I do not understand this. She's absolutely dangerous and I possibly cannot give her work. She's deranged."
He also told Meera, "Main tumhara boyfriend nahi hoon jo tum mere saath aise khel sakti ho. Tum yahan meri zimmedari ho aur maine tumhe yahan sirf protect karne ki nazar se dekha hai. Tumko meri maa maine sirf yeh kaha ki Mumbai mein yahan wahan mat jao kyunki tumko log istmaal karenge aur kaam bhi nahi denge. Tum koi meri girlfriend ho jo main tumhe rokun? Jahan marji jao. Thappad tumko marna chahiye jo maine tumko kabhi mara nahi." At this point she told him, "Toh maar lijiye." He also told her that she must go see a psychiatrist, and added, "Main tumse illtajah kar raha hoon ki doctor se ja kar milo. Tumko zehani level pe thodi si ilaaj ki zaroorat hai. Main tumko le jaonga doctor ke paas." He later told us that she's even offered him a Pakistani show titled "Kaun Banega Meera Pati".
However, a while later Meera called us and said, "Jab maine woh interview diya tha, badi friendly way mein baatein hui thi, main thoda emotional ho gayi thi. But Bhatttsaab is my guru, maine bahut seekha hai unse. Mere teacher bhi hain. Jab aap kaam karte hain, bahut sari cheezen hoti hain, aap emotionally involved bhi hote hain. Aap hurt bhi hote hain.."
Meera needs medical help & counselling
At a time when one is running from pillar to post with like minded people from both India and Pakistan to obtain a pardon for Dr Chishti, an eighty-year-old Pakistani national holed up in an Indian jail on a life sentence, comes this frivolous, irresponsible and heart breaking allegation by Meera to the Indian press.
This is not the first time that Meera has maligned me publicly. A few years ago she had made similar and bizarre allegations against me in an Urdu daily in Pakistan. Inspite of my well wishers begging me to reprimand her for that, and to distance myself from her, I chose to be magnanimous and play down her actions, as they come from a mind that is not stable. I always felt sorry for her, and felt that she needs medical help and counselling. I still feel the same.
The reason I stand up for myself today is because I don't want any kind of trivia to obscure the more serious issues that I am currently engaged with.
I hope the media in India and Pakistan will state my position in totality, if and when these bizarre and totally unfounded allegations she has made against me are reproduced by them in their media.
Meera's a nutcase
I introduced this girl seven years ago in "Nazar" and I am the one who introduced her to Mahesh Bhatt. Little did we know then that we were entering into unknown territories with a mad woman. She's a nutcase; a madwoman. If I use the word insane, I wouldn't be too far from the truth. In fact, I'd go as far to say that she's schizophrenic. She says something and then she says something else. This is the case with her for the last seven years. She's tried to defame a man who I have known for 20 years – a credible man like Mahesh Bhatt. Meera will do anything for publicity. She denied everything when I called her. I introduced her to a reporter six years ago and she said she was 24. Someone recently asked her age, and she still said she's 24. Bhatt's wife (Soni Razdan) may take legal action; I just spoke to Soni. Meera's got a film coming out in Pakistan and she's using everything for publicity. Mahesh and I have been working for Indo-Pak peace for the last 10 years.
Sevy Ali, The producer who introduced Meera to Bhatt
Tuesday 26 April 2011
Dipshikha Nagpal at a filmi do
Dipshikha Nagpal looked as pretty as a picture in a pink salwar kameez, as she attended a filmi do on Monday evening.
The actress caught up with Johny Lever, who was in his usual affable mood. There was a lot of serious discussion as veterans from the film industry deliberated over the changing trends in the movie business. They spoke about how Indian films are making a mark globally and also discussed the good performances of the year.
Anil Sharma was also present at the occasion. The director, who'll soon begin his new project, seems to have lost a lot of weight already. Apart from films, cricket was another topic of discussion at this do. After all, with the T-20 series on, it's hard to escape the cricket fever that's gripped the city!
The actress caught up with Johny Lever, who was in his usual affable mood. There was a lot of serious discussion as veterans from the film industry deliberated over the changing trends in the movie business. They spoke about how Indian films are making a mark globally and also discussed the good performances of the year.
Anil Sharma was also present at the occasion. The director, who'll soon begin his new project, seems to have lost a lot of weight already. Apart from films, cricket was another topic of discussion at this do. After all, with the T-20 series on, it's hard to escape the cricket fever that's gripped the city!
Neha, Vivek at a filmy do in Mumbai
Romance never goes out of fashion. And banking on this, Apoorv Gupta is all set to make his debut in world of music with his album, Ek Ladki Shabnmi Jaisi, which is a compilation of seven soul stirring songs.
The album was launched recently by Neha Dhupia and Vivek Oberoi. The compilation has been produced by Sampoorna Advertising & Communications, and distributed by Venus Tapes & Records. The music videos for the songs Teri Palkein and Ek Ladki, star Pulkit Samrat and Yami Gautam.
Says Apoorv, "I am ecstatic knowing that my efforts have paid off so well. Music is my passion and my first love. This album is a compilation of songs that are very close to my heart."
The album was launched recently by Neha Dhupia and Vivek Oberoi. The compilation has been produced by Sampoorna Advertising & Communications, and distributed by Venus Tapes & Records. The music videos for the songs Teri Palkein and Ek Ladki, star Pulkit Samrat and Yami Gautam.
Says Apoorv, "I am ecstatic knowing that my efforts have paid off so well. Music is my passion and my first love. This album is a compilation of songs that are very close to my heart."
Salman ignores Pritam at Ready music launch
The music of Salman Khan's Ready was recently launched in Mumbai.
Like always, Salman kept the audience entertained with his one-line punches and a little bit of dancing. But interestingly, while the do was about the film's music, we saw music director Pritam feeling a little out of place.
Usually, it's the music director who calls the shots at any music launch. However, at this one, Pritam didn't even get a fair chance to speak about his music. Even Salman, who's introduced music directors like Himesh Reshammiya and Sajid-Wajid to the industry, didn't speak about Pritam when on stage.
At one point during the event, Salman even shook a leg with Character Dheela singer Neeraj Sridhar and gave him a warm hug but he didn't acknowledge Pritam, who was standing right there.
We wonder if Salman and Pritam have had differences during the making of Ready music. It can be recalled that Pritam had chosen a different song for the trailer but on Salman's insistence it was changed to Dhinka Chika.
We tried to contact Pritam but he was unavailable for comment.
Like always, Salman kept the audience entertained with his one-line punches and a little bit of dancing. But interestingly, while the do was about the film's music, we saw music director Pritam feeling a little out of place.
Usually, it's the music director who calls the shots at any music launch. However, at this one, Pritam didn't even get a fair chance to speak about his music. Even Salman, who's introduced music directors like Himesh Reshammiya and Sajid-Wajid to the industry, didn't speak about Pritam when on stage.
At one point during the event, Salman even shook a leg with Character Dheela singer Neeraj Sridhar and gave him a warm hug but he didn't acknowledge Pritam, who was standing right there.
We wonder if Salman and Pritam have had differences during the making of Ready music. It can be recalled that Pritam had chosen a different song for the trailer but on Salman's insistence it was changed to Dhinka Chika.
We tried to contact Pritam but he was unavailable for comment.
| Ready - 2011 |  | |
| >> >> | ||
 | Character Dheela (Ishq Ke Naam) Neeraj Sridhar, Amrita Kak | Media Player-128 Kbps |
 | Humko Pyaar Hua (Chal Chale) Tulsi Kumar, K.K | Media Player-128 Kbps |
| | Dhinka Chika Mika Singh, Amrita Kak | Media Player-128 Kbps |
| | Meri Ada Bhi (Ishq Ne Mere) Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Tulsi Kumar | Media Player-128 Kbps |
| | Dhinke Chinke (Remix) Mika Singh, Amrita Kak | Media Player-128 Kbps |
| | Humko Pyaar Hua (Chal Chale) - Remix K.K, Tulsi Kumar | Media Player-128 Kbps |
| | Character Dheela (Ishq Ke Naam) - Remix Neeraj, Amrita Kak | Media Player-128 Kbps |
| | Meri Ada Bhi (Ishq Ne Mere) - Remix Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Tulsi | Media Player-128 Kbps |
Aamir dares to challenge Mumbai
Aamir Khan seems to be inspired by his director wife Kiran Rao. The actor enjoyed shooting in real locations for her directorial venture Dhobi Ghat and has requested Reema Kagti - the director of his next, to do the same.After shooting at Lower Parel station, the director shot at Western Railway's Charni Road station in South Mumbai. According to a unit hand the shoot happened on Sunday evening.
"Camera was placed on a bridge close to the station. Due to the help of a huge crane it was easier to shoot the station portions. It was a chase sequence where Aamir Khan, who plays a cop in the film, was following a criminal," said a unit hand.
The crew did not reveal about the shoot to the inquisitive commuters who were hovering around. Aamir suddenly came out of his vanity van when the cameras were in place and did the shoot in flat 2 takes. He vanished immediately after that and the shoot was wrapped up.
It can be recalled that earlier the actor shot at Sarvoday hospital in Ghatkopar.
Censor Board miffed with Ekta Kapoor
What started out as private screenings for friends and family to gauge their reactions to Balaji Telefilms's black comedy Shor In The City, ended up becoming a route to sabotage the film's scheduled release.
Reportedly, someone from the trade tipped off the censor board about the private screenings, which were held prior to being handed an official certified rating.
As a result, the production house was slapped with a show cause notice, which questioned the decision to organize the screenings.
Our source tells us, "The censor board was ticked off about the screening before they handed over the certificate to Balaji which was U/A as principally agreed on.
The censor board up until Monday afternoon refused to issue the certificate and sent Balaji a show cause notice questioning the production house about the screenings. Multiple shows were to be held on Monday and Tuesday for the industry, which had to be cancelled.
Holding private screening is a common practice to garner feedback. The response ticked off rivals and they resorted to enforcing the law to delay the film.
However, Balaji sent a written explanation and someone also personally met the board from the production house. Finally, on Monday evening, the certificate was issued."
The source added, "People from the media commented about the film on social networking sites which worked against Balaji. Thankfully the matter was sorted or else the film's release would have been delayed."
When contacted, Tanuj Garg, CEO of Balaji Motion Pictures, refused to comment and simply said, "We have received the censor certificate."
Reportedly, someone from the trade tipped off the censor board about the private screenings, which were held prior to being handed an official certified rating.
As a result, the production house was slapped with a show cause notice, which questioned the decision to organize the screenings.
Our source tells us, "The censor board was ticked off about the screening before they handed over the certificate to Balaji which was U/A as principally agreed on.
The censor board up until Monday afternoon refused to issue the certificate and sent Balaji a show cause notice questioning the production house about the screenings. Multiple shows were to be held on Monday and Tuesday for the industry, which had to be cancelled.
Holding private screening is a common practice to garner feedback. The response ticked off rivals and they resorted to enforcing the law to delay the film.
However, Balaji sent a written explanation and someone also personally met the board from the production house. Finally, on Monday evening, the certificate was issued."
The source added, "People from the media commented about the film on social networking sites which worked against Balaji. Thankfully the matter was sorted or else the film's release would have been delayed."
When contacted, Tanuj Garg, CEO of Balaji Motion Pictures, refused to comment and simply said, "We have received the censor certificate."
Naughty@ 40 gets A-certificate
Govinda has turned quite naughty these days. His upcoming Naughty@40 where he plays a forty-year-old unmarried 'starving' man who lands in India from London only to get married, has been given an 'A' certificate by the Censor Board. But the actor doesn't seem to agree with it.
Respecting the Board's decision, Govinda says, "Recently, when eminent journalist and film critic Taran Aadarsh saw the film he said that there was no requirement for an 'A'. It doesn't need! Though I totally respect the Board's perspective, but there are no hardcore bed room scenes in the films. There are far too many films with nudity which go by as uncensored."
Directed by Jag Mundhra, in this still from the film, a bare chest Govinda, looks quite apprehensive before his bed room 'interactions' with the UK model Adward Lussia, who plays love guru to him, teaching him the intricacies of 'love'. Govinda says, "It is a comedy about unmarried people above 40, how they crave to satiate their desires. I play some one like that who doesn't know anything about sex.
But don't you think you will lose your audience with the 'A', we asked the actor. He replies recklessly, "A certificate doesn't matter. Those who will watch it first and like it will definitely spread the word and I am so sure that college-goers will come to see it.
It is a fun film. Even families can watch it. In 1988, my film Hatya too was given an A-certificate. Jabki usmein aisa kuch bhi nahi tha. I don't fight on these things."
Commenting on the reason why Censor Board gave the film an 'A', producer Anuj Sharma says, "May be for them the subject was bold.
An unmarried man wants to get married and is craving for sex. Bachchon ke liye nai hai. Thodi adult hai. But while shooting for the film, we made it a point to keep it as normal as possible."
With Banda Ye Bindaas Hai, Run Bhola Run and Loot in the pipeline to release, Govinda is quite pepped up right now for his naughty act.
Respecting the Board's decision, Govinda says, "Recently, when eminent journalist and film critic Taran Aadarsh saw the film he said that there was no requirement for an 'A'. It doesn't need! Though I totally respect the Board's perspective, but there are no hardcore bed room scenes in the films. There are far too many films with nudity which go by as uncensored."
Directed by Jag Mundhra, in this still from the film, a bare chest Govinda, looks quite apprehensive before his bed room 'interactions' with the UK model Adward Lussia, who plays love guru to him, teaching him the intricacies of 'love'. Govinda says, "It is a comedy about unmarried people above 40, how they crave to satiate their desires. I play some one like that who doesn't know anything about sex.
But don't you think you will lose your audience with the 'A', we asked the actor. He replies recklessly, "A certificate doesn't matter. Those who will watch it first and like it will definitely spread the word and I am so sure that college-goers will come to see it.
It is a fun film. Even families can watch it. In 1988, my film Hatya too was given an A-certificate. Jabki usmein aisa kuch bhi nahi tha. I don't fight on these things."
Commenting on the reason why Censor Board gave the film an 'A', producer Anuj Sharma says, "May be for them the subject was bold.
An unmarried man wants to get married and is craving for sex. Bachchon ke liye nai hai. Thodi adult hai. But while shooting for the film, we made it a point to keep it as normal as possible."
With Banda Ye Bindaas Hai, Run Bhola Run and Loot in the pipeline to release, Govinda is quite pepped up right now for his naughty act.
Oye Oye time for Naseeruddin Vidya
The last time he came close to dancing was in Ishqiya last year. And the only time Naseeruddin Shah really shimmied to none other than Saroj Khan's moves was 22 years back in the superhit song Tirchi Topiwale from Tridev.
However, according to director Milan Luthria, "It's 'Oye Oye' time for the Shah Of Actors again."
Shah who plays an aging actor in the film, will have to perform a full-fledged dance number for Luthria's Dirty Picture.
The project, which already has had Vidya Balan who plays Silk Smitha, feel a little out of her element with the kind of costumes and the required weight gain, has now demanded that Shah do what he has never been comfortable doing.
In fact, the last time Shah really danced in Tridev, the media quoted him saying, "I am not really suitable for the role".
However, since filmmaker Luthria and producer Ekta Kapoor is adamant on Shah shaking a leg, he being the perfectionist actor he is, has demanded practice sessions for the same before the film goes on the floors.
A source informed us, "Naseer saab is rehearsing for his dance in Dity Picture every day at Milan's office. He comes for the rehearsal every day at 8.30 am."
"Naseer saab practices about two hours everyday. His wife Ratna comes along to boost him up a bit. And don't forget that Vidya is playing Silk Smitha.
So the dance is pretty fast and difficult. Hence, Shah's nervousness is justified, especially since he hasn't done a dance number since a long time, and he hardly did it even in his hey days," added the source.
When contacted, an excited Luthria said, "I have worked with Shah very closely in Najaayaz (1995) and Sir (1993). He is such an accomplished actor and yet is so much like a child. At the moment, he's rocking the dance floor preparing for a standout performance."
However, according to director Milan Luthria, "It's 'Oye Oye' time for the Shah Of Actors again."
Shah who plays an aging actor in the film, will have to perform a full-fledged dance number for Luthria's Dirty Picture.
The project, which already has had Vidya Balan who plays Silk Smitha, feel a little out of her element with the kind of costumes and the required weight gain, has now demanded that Shah do what he has never been comfortable doing.
In fact, the last time Shah really danced in Tridev, the media quoted him saying, "I am not really suitable for the role".
However, since filmmaker Luthria and producer Ekta Kapoor is adamant on Shah shaking a leg, he being the perfectionist actor he is, has demanded practice sessions for the same before the film goes on the floors.
A source informed us, "Naseer saab is rehearsing for his dance in Dity Picture every day at Milan's office. He comes for the rehearsal every day at 8.30 am."
"Naseer saab practices about two hours everyday. His wife Ratna comes along to boost him up a bit. And don't forget that Vidya is playing Silk Smitha.
So the dance is pretty fast and difficult. Hence, Shah's nervousness is justified, especially since he hasn't done a dance number since a long time, and he hardly did it even in his hey days," added the source.
When contacted, an excited Luthria said, "I have worked with Shah very closely in Najaayaz (1995) and Sir (1993). He is such an accomplished actor and yet is so much like a child. At the moment, he's rocking the dance floor preparing for a standout performance."
Court declines to stay release of Chalo Dilli
The Delhi High Court Tuesday declined the plea of prominent music composer Anandji Virji Shah for staying the release of tennis star Mahesh Bhupathi's debut Bollywood movie "Chalo Dilli", starring his wife Lara Dutta, for violating copyright by remixing his popular song "Laila o Laila".
"Let the film be released on April 29," Justice Manmohan Singh said, issuing notice to the director and producer of the movie and seeking their response by May 12.
Anandji, who with his brother Kalyanji, had composed music for many films, had approached the court alleging that the filmmaker has violated the copyright by making a remix of "Laila o Laila" from the 1980s film "Qurbani", directed by Feroz Khan.
Filing a civil suit, Anandji sought an order restraining the filmmakers from issuing any audio CD or DVD with the remix of the song.
He also claimed damages of Rs.1 crore from the EROS International Media, the producer of "Chalo Dilli", contending the filmmakers should have obtained his permission for the remix. He also argued he was entitled to receive royalty for the remix of the song.
"It is shocking to find that the music composition contained in the song 'Laila o Laila' in the film Chalo Dilli is slavish and a distorted version," said Anandji.
"A separate licence/permission would be necessary from plaintiff (Anandji) in the absence of which there would be an infringement of Copyrights Act," he said, in his suit.
"Let the film be released on April 29," Justice Manmohan Singh said, issuing notice to the director and producer of the movie and seeking their response by May 12.
Anandji, who with his brother Kalyanji, had composed music for many films, had approached the court alleging that the filmmaker has violated the copyright by making a remix of "Laila o Laila" from the 1980s film "Qurbani", directed by Feroz Khan.
Filing a civil suit, Anandji sought an order restraining the filmmakers from issuing any audio CD or DVD with the remix of the song.
He also claimed damages of Rs.1 crore from the EROS International Media, the producer of "Chalo Dilli", contending the filmmakers should have obtained his permission for the remix. He also argued he was entitled to receive royalty for the remix of the song.
"It is shocking to find that the music composition contained in the song 'Laila o Laila' in the film Chalo Dilli is slavish and a distorted version," said Anandji.
"A separate licence/permission would be necessary from plaintiff (Anandji) in the absence of which there would be an infringement of Copyrights Act," he said, in his suit.
Men Will Be Men is been shot in 7 days
What happens when four men get together for holiday in Pataya? First time director Gorky answers this in " Men Will Be Men", a commonly used tagline, and says it was tough shooting the comedy in just seven days.
"It was really tough shooting a comedy in seven days. The weather too played it's part in spoiling all plans, but all in all it was a great experience and everybody had lots of fun. I think its shows in the film," said Gorky, who worked as an assistant director with Kundan Shah for five years.
The director has roped in popular television actors Rajesh Kumar, Gaurav Chopra and Rohit Khurana along with Rahil Tandon, to play four friends. Zeenal Kamdar will also be seen in the movie.
Before moving to big screen, Gorky scripted and directed the TV show "Krishna Arjun" on Star Plus. Then he moved to Indonesia where he directed and shot music videos and some local programmes.
In 2008, he came back to India and with his wife set up the 4 Lions Films production house, which is currently producing "Geet" for Star Plus.
Made on a budget of about Rs.1 crore, the film about four men and their vacation in Pataya, is releasing with 75 prints in India only.
"It's an interesting concept where a tag line has been converted into a film script. It was a challenging idea for us at Idiot Box and we hope that the audiences warm up to the film and the idea," says Samar Khan from Red Chillies Idiot Box, line producer of the comedy.
Red Chillies Idiot Box is the TV arm of Shah Rukh Khan's Red Chillies Entertainment.
"It was really tough shooting a comedy in seven days. The weather too played it's part in spoiling all plans, but all in all it was a great experience and everybody had lots of fun. I think its shows in the film," said Gorky, who worked as an assistant director with Kundan Shah for five years.
The director has roped in popular television actors Rajesh Kumar, Gaurav Chopra and Rohit Khurana along with Rahil Tandon, to play four friends. Zeenal Kamdar will also be seen in the movie.
Before moving to big screen, Gorky scripted and directed the TV show "Krishna Arjun" on Star Plus. Then he moved to Indonesia where he directed and shot music videos and some local programmes.
In 2008, he came back to India and with his wife set up the 4 Lions Films production house, which is currently producing "Geet" for Star Plus.
Made on a budget of about Rs.1 crore, the film about four men and their vacation in Pataya, is releasing with 75 prints in India only.
"It's an interesting concept where a tag line has been converted into a film script. It was a challenging idea for us at Idiot Box and we hope that the audiences warm up to the film and the idea," says Samar Khan from Red Chillies Idiot Box, line producer of the comedy.
Red Chillies Idiot Box is the TV arm of Shah Rukh Khan's Red Chillies Entertainment.
When Nargis Fakhri changed her hair colour
When Nargis Fakhri , the half-Czech, half-Pakistani, model-turned-actor, was shooting in Delhi for Imtiaz Ali's " Rockstar", there was quite a debate over her hair colour.
"Her original hair colour is brown. She was told to get them coloured black to get the Indian look (as she plays a DU girl in the film).
But the black colour made her look very very artificial, considering her skin tone and overall look. So she had to get her natural colour back for the film. So, she came to me to go back to her natural hair colour," informs hairstylist Sumit Israni.
"Her original hair colour is brown. She was told to get them coloured black to get the Indian look (as she plays a DU girl in the film).
But the black colour made her look very very artificial, considering her skin tone and overall look. So she had to get her natural colour back for the film. So, she came to me to go back to her natural hair colour," informs hairstylist Sumit Israni.
Cricket cinematic connection
It's not IPL that has brought the country's two obsessions – Cricket and Bollywood – together, the cinema-cricket merger happened long ago (perhaps the world over), and our young cricketers are only taking forward the legacy of their seniors, with all their 'heart'.
The innings might have begun in the 70s with Sharmila Tagore. The then sexy actress' career was at an all-time high when she decided to tie the knot with Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi.
Around the same time, during one India sojourn, South African captain Garfield Sobers got briefly engaged to actress Anju Mahendru.
Then there were tales of romantic involvement of Imran Khan with Zeenat Aman, Ravi Shastri with Amrita Singh, Sourav Ganguly almost risking his marriage coz of Nagma, Azharuddin divorcing his wife to wed Sangeeta Bijlani... and Neena Gupta's short-lived affair with Vivian Richards was talked about once again, when the West Indian cricketer recently graced the front row for their love child, designer Masaba's fashion show.
'BATTING' EYELIDS
Until the 21-year-old Sakshi Singh Rawat was under wraps, MS Dhoni was known to have a crush on Deepika Padukone, and reportedly, Asin and Dhoni got along like a house on fire, not to forget his rumoured liaisons with even Lakshmi Rai. Post the skipper's wedding, Pakistani actress Veena Malik confesed that she "still loves Mohammad Asif". While Yuvraj's Bollywood link-up list may be long, Kim Sharma, Minissha Lamba and Deepika are the names we remember the most. Geeta Basra has been cheering Harbhajan Singh on the field for quite a long time now. The two were also spotted together walking into a hotel together recently.
Now, while Zaheer Khan may be tying the knot soon with Isha Sharvani, Virat Kohli and Sreesanth are still denying their alleged link ups with Sarah Jane Dias and Riya Sen (latest speculation is Shazahn Padamse) respectively. Guess they don't know this is just a part of their 'game'!
Take a look here...
BOWLED OVER
MS Dhoni: Deepika Padukone, Asin, Lakshmi Rai
Yuvraj Singh: Kim Sharma, Minissha Lamba, Deepika Padukone
Zaheer Khan: Isha Sharvani
Virat Kohli: Sarah Jane Dias
Sreesanth: Riya Sen, Shazahn Padamse
Harbhajan Singh: Geeta Basra
Sourav Ganguly: Nagma
Mohammad Azharuddin: Sangeeta Bijlani
Ravi Shastri: Amrita Singh
Garfield Sobers: Anju Mahendru
Vivian Richards: Neena Gupta
Imran Khan: Zeenat Aman
Mohsin Khan: Reena Roy
Usman Afzal: Amrita Arora
Shane Warne: Elizabeth Hurley
The innings might have begun in the 70s with Sharmila Tagore. The then sexy actress' career was at an all-time high when she decided to tie the knot with Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi.
Around the same time, during one India sojourn, South African captain Garfield Sobers got briefly engaged to actress Anju Mahendru.
Then there were tales of romantic involvement of Imran Khan with Zeenat Aman, Ravi Shastri with Amrita Singh, Sourav Ganguly almost risking his marriage coz of Nagma, Azharuddin divorcing his wife to wed Sangeeta Bijlani... and Neena Gupta's short-lived affair with Vivian Richards was talked about once again, when the West Indian cricketer recently graced the front row for their love child, designer Masaba's fashion show.
'BATTING' EYELIDS
Until the 21-year-old Sakshi Singh Rawat was under wraps, MS Dhoni was known to have a crush on Deepika Padukone, and reportedly, Asin and Dhoni got along like a house on fire, not to forget his rumoured liaisons with even Lakshmi Rai. Post the skipper's wedding, Pakistani actress Veena Malik confesed that she "still loves Mohammad Asif". While Yuvraj's Bollywood link-up list may be long, Kim Sharma, Minissha Lamba and Deepika are the names we remember the most. Geeta Basra has been cheering Harbhajan Singh on the field for quite a long time now. The two were also spotted together walking into a hotel together recently.
Now, while Zaheer Khan may be tying the knot soon with Isha Sharvani, Virat Kohli and Sreesanth are still denying their alleged link ups with Sarah Jane Dias and Riya Sen (latest speculation is Shazahn Padamse) respectively. Guess they don't know this is just a part of their 'game'!
Take a look here...
BOWLED OVER
MS Dhoni: Deepika Padukone, Asin, Lakshmi Rai
Yuvraj Singh: Kim Sharma, Minissha Lamba, Deepika Padukone
Zaheer Khan: Isha Sharvani
Virat Kohli: Sarah Jane Dias
Sreesanth: Riya Sen, Shazahn Padamse
Harbhajan Singh: Geeta Basra
Sourav Ganguly: Nagma
Mohammad Azharuddin: Sangeeta Bijlani
Ravi Shastri: Amrita Singh
Garfield Sobers: Anju Mahendru
Vivian Richards: Neena Gupta
Imran Khan: Zeenat Aman
Mohsin Khan: Reena Roy
Usman Afzal: Amrita Arora
Shane Warne: Elizabeth Hurley
No SRK Karan wants Salman
The last time Salman Khan worked on a Dharma Productions' film was in the college love saga Kuch Kuch Hota Hai way back in 1998.
After thirteen years, a bad fight with Dharma loyalist Shah Rukh and a couple of comeback hits Wanted and Dabangg, the original bad boy of Bollywood seems to have got a second chance with Karan Johar's production house.
The ice probably broke when KJo asked Salman to be a part of his talk show. The actor agreed to do so for a price, they had to make a donation to his foundation. Though the filmmaker denied paying up for a celebrity on his show back then, he approached the Khan for the next Dharma venture to be directed by Rensil D'Silva.
Considering KJo's association with his favourite Shah Rukh and Salman's disassociation with the King Khan, this piece of news should have been surprising. However, with the filmmaker stretching his professional interests beyond his favourite Khan with Varun Dhawan starring in his next directorial venture Student Of The Year, the filmmaker approaching the other Khan becomes understandable.
According to a source, "After Kurbaan, Rensil is directing a fantasy-action caper on the lines of Ocean's Eleven. When Karan Johar heard the script, he absolutely fell in love with it. Both Karan and Rensil felt Salman was perfect for the main part."
However, even after repeated attempts, Rensil D'Silva remained unavailable for comment.
After thirteen years, a bad fight with Dharma loyalist Shah Rukh and a couple of comeback hits Wanted and Dabangg, the original bad boy of Bollywood seems to have got a second chance with Karan Johar's production house.
The ice probably broke when KJo asked Salman to be a part of his talk show. The actor agreed to do so for a price, they had to make a donation to his foundation. Though the filmmaker denied paying up for a celebrity on his show back then, he approached the Khan for the next Dharma venture to be directed by Rensil D'Silva.
Considering KJo's association with his favourite Shah Rukh and Salman's disassociation with the King Khan, this piece of news should have been surprising. However, with the filmmaker stretching his professional interests beyond his favourite Khan with Varun Dhawan starring in his next directorial venture Student Of The Year, the filmmaker approaching the other Khan becomes understandable.
According to a source, "After Kurbaan, Rensil is directing a fantasy-action caper on the lines of Ocean's Eleven. When Karan Johar heard the script, he absolutely fell in love with it. Both Karan and Rensil felt Salman was perfect for the main part."
However, even after repeated attempts, Rensil D'Silva remained unavailable for comment.
Katrina Priceless dream shattered
A French film had inspired Katrina Kaif's so much that the actress had decided to turn producer and remake the film for Bollywood. Rumours of the actress casting her sister Isabel in the film were also afoot.
However, it so happens that her French connection has just been spoilt. Thanks to the unresponsive people in the other country who she was dealing with.
While Katrina had always remained tightlipped about the film she wanted to buy, industry insiders speculated it to be the 2002 film He Loves Me...He Loves Me Not starring popular French actress Audrey Tatou (of Amelie fame).
However, Kat herself broke her silence and later revealed that she wanted to buy the remake rights of the 2006 French movie Priceless.
And after months of going back and forth, the deal as of today, stands cancelled.
The people in question simply stopped reverting to the Bollywood actress. "It was ridiculous. Katrina is an A-list actress in Bollywood. They should have dealt with the proceedings very tactfully," revealed a source close to Kat.
Tired of the unprofessional behaviour, Katrina too, has eventually given up on her French dream. "She gave lot of time and energy to this project.
She had even thought of a few directors who could handle the subject beautifully. She has every reason to be exasperated now. She has given up on Priceless, " added our source.
However, this setback has not managed to squash Katrina's dream of turning producer. "She is very much open to other films. She is quite a film buff and sees a lot of foreign films. Who knows, she might even pick up a Hindi film and remake it," informed the source.
However, it so happens that her French connection has just been spoilt. Thanks to the unresponsive people in the other country who she was dealing with.
While Katrina had always remained tightlipped about the film she wanted to buy, industry insiders speculated it to be the 2002 film He Loves Me...He Loves Me Not starring popular French actress Audrey Tatou (of Amelie fame).
However, Kat herself broke her silence and later revealed that she wanted to buy the remake rights of the 2006 French movie Priceless.
And after months of going back and forth, the deal as of today, stands cancelled.
The people in question simply stopped reverting to the Bollywood actress. "It was ridiculous. Katrina is an A-list actress in Bollywood. They should have dealt with the proceedings very tactfully," revealed a source close to Kat.
Tired of the unprofessional behaviour, Katrina too, has eventually given up on her French dream. "She gave lot of time and energy to this project.
She had even thought of a few directors who could handle the subject beautifully. She has every reason to be exasperated now. She has given up on Priceless, " added our source.
However, this setback has not managed to squash Katrina's dream of turning producer. "She is very much open to other films. She is quite a film buff and sees a lot of foreign films. Who knows, she might even pick up a Hindi film and remake it," informed the source.
Mahesh Bhatt I slapped Meera
Pakistani actress Meera alleges that Mahesh Bhatt was possessive and physically abusive, and that it was him who made her leave Bollywood and didn't let her come back.
Meera, who became a known face in Bollywood with films like Mahesh Bhatt's "Nazar" and Rajiv Babbar's "Kasak", is making a comeback.
When TOI caught up with her in Karachi, the actress opened up about her hiatus from Indian cinema, saying Bhatt didn't want her to work with anyone else, and even thwarted her visa process when she wanted to return.
"Do saal ke baad main wapas Bollywood films karne wali hun. It's been a long gap and people in Pakistan and India have been asking why. Today, I feel it's time to share the truth. It was a heartening experience to work in Bollywood. I love the Indian audience and the appreciation I received here was unexpected. It was not an easy journey. Bahut mushkilen aayin, par maine haar nahin maani. I was new to Bollywood and Mahesh Bhatt introduced me to the industry. I respect Maheshji a lot, he has been my guru and mentor. I will always owe my success to him," says she.
But then why did she move back to Pakistan? "I was all alone in Mumbai and didn't know many people except Mahesh Bhatt. I felt insecure. Bahut waqt laga logon ko jaanne main. It was not that easy. After my success in my debut film, "Nazar", I started getting a lot of offers from other renowned filmmakers, about which Mahesh Bhatt felt uncomfortable. Mujhe laga woh jealous thay mujhse jab main famous ho rahi thi. Woh nahin chahte thay ki main kisi aur director ke saath kaam karun. I got offers from big directors like Ram Gopal Varma, Mani Ratnam, Subhash Ghai and so on. He didn't appreciate it at all," Meera replies.
So was it her own decision to leave India after a dispute with Bhatt? Meera says, "Logon ne bahut kuch likha is bare mein, aur kaha bhi, but main ab chup nahin rahoongi. Aaj main sach bolna chahti hun. It was not my decision to stop doing films, but I was asked to leave India by Maheshji. He did not like my being famous and interacting with other directors."
Pata nahin kyun... Woh bade ajeeb tarah ki baatein karte. He would tell me, 'Tum mein aur Pooja (Bhatt, his daughter) mein koi farak nahin hai. You are like Pooja... Aur phir kuch der baad kahte ki main tumhe kaafi chahta hun aur tum mere liye bahut special ho. It was difficult for me to tell what exactly he wanted from me. He wanted me to only stick to his banner. One night, I had to meet Subhash Ghai at a hotel. Jab maine Maheshji ko kaha, toh woh bahut furious hue aur mujh par bahut chillaye, aur unhone mujhe do teen thappad bhi maare.
"I was shocked. We had a fight, and then he said to me, 'Sorry Meera, I can't handle your problems anymore. It's better that you go back to Pakistan. I left, but then when I wanted to come back to India again, he made sure that I didn't get a visa. After that, I had no hope to work in Bollywood anymore. Usne saare raaste rok diye. I felt very shocked and depressed. I kept asking myself, ki meri kya galti thi... main ab tak Maheshji ko samajh nahin paayi hun."
Back in Pakistan, Meera is busy with her films and reality shows. She tells us she was also offered "Bigg Boss" in India, but she refused. She says, "I was offered twice to be a part of "Bigg Boss". I wasn't comfortable and refused. To stay in that house with people I didn't know wasn't a comfortable idea for me."
Ask her about Veena Mallik's fame courtesy "Bigg Boss", and Meera says, "Veena is a dear friend and I'm happy for her. If she is happy with Ashmit, then why should people talk so much. She is a talented actress and has great potential." Meera says she'll be visiting Mumbai. "I have a lot of appointments with filmmakers and producers. There are lots of interesting projects in the pipeline. I've been approached by Imtiaz Ali to do his next movie opposite Ranbir Kapoor. I have also signed a new film, where I'm playing a Pakistani girl. The shooting should begin by this year end."
In the same vein, Meera adds, "Ab main mature ho gayi hun aur kaafi confidence aa gaya hain mujh mein. Ab mujhe koi nahin rok sakta hai. Now, even if Mahesh Bhatt wants to stop me, I don't care," she laughs.
Mahesh Bhatt
I have slapped her?" asks an incredulous Mahesh Bhatt, laughing, "First of all, Meera is a unique phenomenon. She is a South Asian treasure .
She's bizarre and innocent at the same time; she's smart and then completely childlike the next instant. So you cannot feel outraged by her utterances and feel wronged. What Meera needs more than anything at the moment is a parental gaze, which screams out for an urgent need to rescue her from herself. Her life is screaming out for it. She has an extraordinary talent of getting herself in equations where everyone who is her friend, turns hostile towards her.
Despite all the strange utterances that have come from her from time to time, I have refused to turn into her enemy. Earlier, in an interview to a newspaper in Pakistan, she said that I'd taken advantage of her. I don't know what advantage I had taken. It said that I'd abused her and had dumped her. The journalist called me from there and I just said one thing, 'Daant agar zabaan kaat le, toh koi daant nahi nikal deta na.' Meera is my own."
Bhatt says that he still feels like a parent towards her because of the condition she is in. He says, "She is a vulnerable person going through a vulnerable phase. It takes a lot to come to terms with the twilight in this world of cinema, especially for the glamourous girls. She did try to come back and mend bridges a while ago, which we did. And then she got herself into the marriage mess where she claimed that she was assaulted by her supposed husband. At that point, I'd told her to go to Asma Jehangirji (Pakistani lawyer) and Asmaji did call me and help her."
But, the issue it seems, was not one of familial affection, but a career in Bollywood. Says Bhatt, "I told her that I don't even have the power to cast my own son in a movie if it doesn't work out. I cannot make you or break you, but if you think that going into every producer's office and using your seductive power to get roles is going to work, then you are mistaken. The word Pakistan anyway is not a comfortable word in this world, when the relationship between the two countries is always in a blow-hot-and-blow-cold-situation. At that time, you come to me as a friend and I can't prescribe to you this path that women think is useful. A path where you use your charms to get roles."
On Meera's allegations of Bhatt not letting her meet director Subhash Ghai for a role, he says, "Subhash Ghai is a respected man and a friend, so why would I stop her from meeting him? I told her that I don't fall for every courteous statement uttered by a Bollywood producer. Don't confuse your fantasies and desires with reality. But, for her to get work, I guess, she has to make me an enemy and say all this because I was responsible for creating a product called "Nazar", which I didn't give my heart to in terms of my creativity. I am singly, wholly and solely responsible for the BO debacle of "Nazar"."
But, he does have advice now to give to her. He says, "You are young and beautiful. Get married and settle down because this world is very unforgiving to aging stars. You've got used to this standard of living and you need someone to fuel it. It's the destiny of all stars that they are born and then they die. Don't blame me – you are not angry with me but with facts. Accept them and move on.
Meera, who became a known face in Bollywood with films like Mahesh Bhatt's "Nazar" and Rajiv Babbar's "Kasak", is making a comeback.
When TOI caught up with her in Karachi, the actress opened up about her hiatus from Indian cinema, saying Bhatt didn't want her to work with anyone else, and even thwarted her visa process when she wanted to return.
"Do saal ke baad main wapas Bollywood films karne wali hun. It's been a long gap and people in Pakistan and India have been asking why. Today, I feel it's time to share the truth. It was a heartening experience to work in Bollywood. I love the Indian audience and the appreciation I received here was unexpected. It was not an easy journey. Bahut mushkilen aayin, par maine haar nahin maani. I was new to Bollywood and Mahesh Bhatt introduced me to the industry. I respect Maheshji a lot, he has been my guru and mentor. I will always owe my success to him," says she.
But then why did she move back to Pakistan? "I was all alone in Mumbai and didn't know many people except Mahesh Bhatt. I felt insecure. Bahut waqt laga logon ko jaanne main. It was not that easy. After my success in my debut film, "Nazar", I started getting a lot of offers from other renowned filmmakers, about which Mahesh Bhatt felt uncomfortable. Mujhe laga woh jealous thay mujhse jab main famous ho rahi thi. Woh nahin chahte thay ki main kisi aur director ke saath kaam karun. I got offers from big directors like Ram Gopal Varma, Mani Ratnam, Subhash Ghai and so on. He didn't appreciate it at all," Meera replies.
So was it her own decision to leave India after a dispute with Bhatt? Meera says, "Logon ne bahut kuch likha is bare mein, aur kaha bhi, but main ab chup nahin rahoongi. Aaj main sach bolna chahti hun. It was not my decision to stop doing films, but I was asked to leave India by Maheshji. He did not like my being famous and interacting with other directors."
Pata nahin kyun... Woh bade ajeeb tarah ki baatein karte. He would tell me, 'Tum mein aur Pooja (Bhatt, his daughter) mein koi farak nahin hai. You are like Pooja... Aur phir kuch der baad kahte ki main tumhe kaafi chahta hun aur tum mere liye bahut special ho. It was difficult for me to tell what exactly he wanted from me. He wanted me to only stick to his banner. One night, I had to meet Subhash Ghai at a hotel. Jab maine Maheshji ko kaha, toh woh bahut furious hue aur mujh par bahut chillaye, aur unhone mujhe do teen thappad bhi maare.
"I was shocked. We had a fight, and then he said to me, 'Sorry Meera, I can't handle your problems anymore. It's better that you go back to Pakistan. I left, but then when I wanted to come back to India again, he made sure that I didn't get a visa. After that, I had no hope to work in Bollywood anymore. Usne saare raaste rok diye. I felt very shocked and depressed. I kept asking myself, ki meri kya galti thi... main ab tak Maheshji ko samajh nahin paayi hun."
Back in Pakistan, Meera is busy with her films and reality shows. She tells us she was also offered "Bigg Boss" in India, but she refused. She says, "I was offered twice to be a part of "Bigg Boss". I wasn't comfortable and refused. To stay in that house with people I didn't know wasn't a comfortable idea for me."
Ask her about Veena Mallik's fame courtesy "Bigg Boss", and Meera says, "Veena is a dear friend and I'm happy for her. If she is happy with Ashmit, then why should people talk so much. She is a talented actress and has great potential." Meera says she'll be visiting Mumbai. "I have a lot of appointments with filmmakers and producers. There are lots of interesting projects in the pipeline. I've been approached by Imtiaz Ali to do his next movie opposite Ranbir Kapoor. I have also signed a new film, where I'm playing a Pakistani girl. The shooting should begin by this year end."
In the same vein, Meera adds, "Ab main mature ho gayi hun aur kaafi confidence aa gaya hain mujh mein. Ab mujhe koi nahin rok sakta hai. Now, even if Mahesh Bhatt wants to stop me, I don't care," she laughs.
Mahesh Bhatt
I have slapped her?" asks an incredulous Mahesh Bhatt, laughing, "First of all, Meera is a unique phenomenon. She is a South Asian treasure .
She's bizarre and innocent at the same time; she's smart and then completely childlike the next instant. So you cannot feel outraged by her utterances and feel wronged. What Meera needs more than anything at the moment is a parental gaze, which screams out for an urgent need to rescue her from herself. Her life is screaming out for it. She has an extraordinary talent of getting herself in equations where everyone who is her friend, turns hostile towards her.
Despite all the strange utterances that have come from her from time to time, I have refused to turn into her enemy. Earlier, in an interview to a newspaper in Pakistan, she said that I'd taken advantage of her. I don't know what advantage I had taken. It said that I'd abused her and had dumped her. The journalist called me from there and I just said one thing, 'Daant agar zabaan kaat le, toh koi daant nahi nikal deta na.' Meera is my own."
Bhatt says that he still feels like a parent towards her because of the condition she is in. He says, "She is a vulnerable person going through a vulnerable phase. It takes a lot to come to terms with the twilight in this world of cinema, especially for the glamourous girls. She did try to come back and mend bridges a while ago, which we did. And then she got herself into the marriage mess where she claimed that she was assaulted by her supposed husband. At that point, I'd told her to go to Asma Jehangirji (Pakistani lawyer) and Asmaji did call me and help her."
But, the issue it seems, was not one of familial affection, but a career in Bollywood. Says Bhatt, "I told her that I don't even have the power to cast my own son in a movie if it doesn't work out. I cannot make you or break you, but if you think that going into every producer's office and using your seductive power to get roles is going to work, then you are mistaken. The word Pakistan anyway is not a comfortable word in this world, when the relationship between the two countries is always in a blow-hot-and-blow-cold-situation. At that time, you come to me as a friend and I can't prescribe to you this path that women think is useful. A path where you use your charms to get roles."
On Meera's allegations of Bhatt not letting her meet director Subhash Ghai for a role, he says, "Subhash Ghai is a respected man and a friend, so why would I stop her from meeting him? I told her that I don't fall for every courteous statement uttered by a Bollywood producer. Don't confuse your fantasies and desires with reality. But, for her to get work, I guess, she has to make me an enemy and say all this because I was responsible for creating a product called "Nazar", which I didn't give my heart to in terms of my creativity. I am singly, wholly and solely responsible for the BO debacle of "Nazar"."
But, he does have advice now to give to her. He says, "You are young and beautiful. Get married and settle down because this world is very unforgiving to aging stars. You've got used to this standard of living and you need someone to fuel it. It's the destiny of all stars that they are born and then they die. Don't blame me – you are not angry with me but with facts. Accept them and move on.
Ranbir should be wise Salman
All those stories about Ranbir falling out with Ranbir since the latter allegedly started dating Katrina Kaif seems to be just another rumour.
After all if that had been the case, why would Salman name Ranbir as one of the only young actors who can dethrone the 3 mighty Khans: Salman, Aamir and Shah Rukh!
While shooting for a promotional song of 'Ready' at a suburban studio, Salman gave a quick opinion on how he considers both Imran and Ranbir as potential superstars of Bollywood post the Khans.
"Both are talented but my advice for Ranbir would be that he should be wise when it comes to signing films. He is at a good position right now but its crucial that he selects the right films at this moment. Imran too is talented and has the potential to replace SRK, Aamir and I" said Salman unabashedly.
Salman ne bola, toh bola. Isn't it Ranbir?
After all if that had been the case, why would Salman name Ranbir as one of the only young actors who can dethrone the 3 mighty Khans: Salman, Aamir and Shah Rukh!
While shooting for a promotional song of 'Ready' at a suburban studio, Salman gave a quick opinion on how he considers both Imran and Ranbir as potential superstars of Bollywood post the Khans.
"Both are talented but my advice for Ranbir would be that he should be wise when it comes to signing films. He is at a good position right now but its crucial that he selects the right films at this moment. Imran too is talented and has the potential to replace SRK, Aamir and I" said Salman unabashedly.
Salman ne bola, toh bola. Isn't it Ranbir?
Monday 25 April 2011
Katrina Kaif to get raunchier
Like the emcees of yore would constantly announce to a packed auditorium. ``People, hold your breath, lightening(read Kat) is about to strike again.''
There is news in the market that Katrina Kaif is getting ready for another item song.
A trade source says, ``This item number will be in Aditya Chopra's Mere Brother Ki Dulhan that has Imran Khan and Katrina in the lead.''
When anything happens in Adi's backyard, details are usually scattered. But we hear that Adi has just one instruction for Sheila aka Katrina.
He wants this item number in MBKD to be hotter and raunchier than Sheila ki Jawaani. Our source adds, "Sheila was the biggest draw of Tees Maar Khan. But now Adi wants to go one step ahead and get Kat to do the mother of all item numbers.
There is news in the market that Katrina Kaif is getting ready for another item song.
A trade source says, ``This item number will be in Aditya Chopra's Mere Brother Ki Dulhan that has Imran Khan and Katrina in the lead.''
When anything happens in Adi's backyard, details are usually scattered. But we hear that Adi has just one instruction for Sheila aka Katrina.
He wants this item number in MBKD to be hotter and raunchier than Sheila ki Jawaani. Our source adds, "Sheila was the biggest draw of Tees Maar Khan. But now Adi wants to go one step ahead and get Kat to do the mother of all item numbers.
Sonam gets wet in Mausam
Sonam Kapoor is bringing back the rain song. The getting-soaked-in-monsoon scenes have been missing from our films.
However, Sonam's next Mausam with her co-star Shahid Kapoor will have one such sequence. They recently shot for it in Karjat. Shahid was concerned about her health after her recent bout of illness and was seen repeatedly asking if she was okay, and making sure that she was amply buffered with warm clothes and steaming beverages between shots.
However, Sonam's next Mausam with her co-star Shahid Kapoor will have one such sequence. They recently shot for it in Karjat. Shahid was concerned about her health after her recent bout of illness and was seen repeatedly asking if she was okay, and making sure that she was amply buffered with warm clothes and steaming beverages between shots.
What is that they say about the rains being the most romantic device for bringing two people together? Post their splashy shindig on Tuesday and Wednesday Shahid and Sonam are now the best of friends and Pankaj Kapur is very happy. The chemistry between them has just improved.
The actress, however, was forbidden by doctors from getting soaked. She'd barely recovered from her 15-day rest after being hospitalised for nervous exhaustion. Her father Anil Kapoor is not too pleased about it. The most lethal way to develop an infection after recovery from a bout of exhaustion and fever is the dirty studio rain. The concerned father had apparently,
requested the producers to postpone the sequence till Sonam's immune system was back to normal. But the sequence had been postponed for a month now and Sonam didn't want to be held responsible for any further delay. Producer Sheetal Talwar, "We were willing to push the rain sequence for her health's sake. But Sonam insisted on doing the entire thing in the studio rain which is not very healthy.
The actress, however, was forbidden by doctors from getting soaked. She'd barely recovered from her 15-day rest after being hospitalised for nervous exhaustion. Her father Anil Kapoor is not too pleased about it. The most lethal way to develop an infection after recovery from a bout of exhaustion and fever is the dirty studio rain. The concerned father had apparently,
requested the producers to postpone the sequence till Sonam's immune system was back to normal. But the sequence had been postponed for a month now and Sonam didn't want to be held responsible for any further delay. Producer Sheetal Talwar, "We were willing to push the rain sequence for her health's sake. But Sonam insisted on doing the entire thing in the studio rain which is not very healthy.
Katrina brushes off Deepika
Katrina Kaif gained much popularity after her 'Sheila Ki Jawani' number. Leading actresses doing item songs is back in trend, what with Deepika Padukone grooving to the 'Dum Maaro Dum' item song.
Katrina Kaif and Deepika Padukone seem to be complicatedly connected. Not only are they contemporaries, but Katrina Kaif is known to be extremely close to Ranbir Kapoor, Deepika's once upon a time boyfriend, and is also known to be the cause of the RK-Dippy split.
So it is but natural that they be compared to each other. However, ask Katrina what she thought of Deepika's item number, and she wonders why everybody is asking her that question. She is heard to have said, "In what way am I connected with her (read: Deepika's) song? Ask me about mine, and I'll tell you how much I enjoyed doing it. There are some questions and comparisons that are so unwarranted."
The actress is recently back in the city after a shooting schedule of 'Mere Brother Ki Dulhan' with Imran Khan and Ali Zafar in Agra.
Sunday 24 April 2011
Anurag, Kalki wedding plans
The date's out! Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap and actress Kalki Koechlin are tying the knot on April 30 in Ooty. And why Ooty? Because Kalki has an attachement to the place. Her parents have a farmhouse there and she had grown up in the hill-station after the family shifted from Puducherry (Kalki's birthplace).
"The marriage as well as the reception is happening in Kalki's home there, which is in the middle of nowhere. So, no one can really track them down in Ooty.
Anurag and Kalki both are very private people and they did not want any media glare at their wedding. They are leaving town today (Monday) and are going to switch off their phones too. They have invited just 40 of their close friends for the marriage.
Only a few are from the industry. It is really that low-key as far as the Bollywood brigade is concerned," reveals our source.
The informer adds, "It is going to be a full South Indian wedding. Anurag and Kalki are tying the knot at around 11 in the morning on April 30 and a reception for the family and friends will be held the same night, at the same venue. The food that is being served is also going to be South Indian.
Kalki has looked into the menu herself and it has a few dishes that both Anurag and she drool on."
When contacted, Kalki only said, "Yes, the information that you have is true." Designer Laila Bijlani-Motwane, who has designed for star wives like Twinkle Khanna and Tanya Deol, is making the bride's trousseau. "She'll wear a green and gold kanjivaram saree with traditional South Indian gold jewellery for the wedding. For the reception, she is wearing a lehenga (see picture).
She wanted to wear something that she can dance comfortably in. She is a lively girl and we wanted to make something whimsical, something bubbly for her.
The lehenga has three colours — mango, orange and fuchsia, and it totally goes with her personality. There is zardozi work on the silk lehenga too," Laila says.
Anurag has designed his wedding outfit himself. "He is wearing a cream colour kurta-pajama. He was very excited to do it himself, and must say, he has done well," says Laila. Meanwhile, the couple, we hear, is planning to throw a big bash in Mumbai once they return to the city.
"They would obviously do something for the truck-load of people they know and are close to, but as of now they will only plan this reception post their wedding. It may happen mid-May," says the source.
Kalki-Anurag's new pad
Kalki and Anurag have just bought a new house in Versova, which is quite close to where Anurag and Kalki are living. They were very particular that they move into their new home after they get married. This is Anurag's second marriage. He was previously married to his college sweetheart Aarti Bajaj and has a daughter, Aaliya, with her.
"The marriage as well as the reception is happening in Kalki's home there, which is in the middle of nowhere. So, no one can really track them down in Ooty.
Anurag and Kalki both are very private people and they did not want any media glare at their wedding. They are leaving town today (Monday) and are going to switch off their phones too. They have invited just 40 of their close friends for the marriage.
Only a few are from the industry. It is really that low-key as far as the Bollywood brigade is concerned," reveals our source.
The informer adds, "It is going to be a full South Indian wedding. Anurag and Kalki are tying the knot at around 11 in the morning on April 30 and a reception for the family and friends will be held the same night, at the same venue. The food that is being served is also going to be South Indian.
Kalki has looked into the menu herself and it has a few dishes that both Anurag and she drool on."
When contacted, Kalki only said, "Yes, the information that you have is true." Designer Laila Bijlani-Motwane, who has designed for star wives like Twinkle Khanna and Tanya Deol, is making the bride's trousseau. "She'll wear a green and gold kanjivaram saree with traditional South Indian gold jewellery for the wedding. For the reception, she is wearing a lehenga (see picture).
She wanted to wear something that she can dance comfortably in. She is a lively girl and we wanted to make something whimsical, something bubbly for her.
The lehenga has three colours — mango, orange and fuchsia, and it totally goes with her personality. There is zardozi work on the silk lehenga too," Laila says.
Anurag has designed his wedding outfit himself. "He is wearing a cream colour kurta-pajama. He was very excited to do it himself, and must say, he has done well," says Laila. Meanwhile, the couple, we hear, is planning to throw a big bash in Mumbai once they return to the city.
"They would obviously do something for the truck-load of people they know and are close to, but as of now they will only plan this reception post their wedding. It may happen mid-May," says the source.
Kalki-Anurag's new pad
Kalki and Anurag have just bought a new house in Versova, which is quite close to where Anurag and Kalki are living. They were very particular that they move into their new home after they get married. This is Anurag's second marriage. He was previously married to his college sweetheart Aarti Bajaj and has a daughter, Aaliya, with her.
Mission Impossible 4 shooting in Mumbai
Hollywood star Tom Cruise may not be coming to India but his double is moving around in the bylanes of Mumbai searching for Bollywood actor Anil Kapoor.
Yes, Mission Impossible 4-Ghost Protocol which marks Anil Kapoor's debut in mainstream Hollywood is being shot in South Mumbai.
According to insiders, the second unit of the film will be shooting most of the action and outdoor of Mumbai which will mainly be action scenes including car chase.
On Sunday, double of Tom Cruise and the heroine were spotted driving a specially designed BMW SS01 for the film through the bylanes of Bora Bazar situated opposite CST railway station."
A source close to the unit said, "unfortunately none of the main actors of the film including Tom Cruise and Anil Kapoor will be shooting on location here in India. The unit will be travelling to Bangalore after completing the Mumbai schedule within a few days."
Tom Cruise and Anil Kapoor have already shot the interior portions of Mumbai and Bangalore in Dubai and Vancouver which will be later matched with the sequences shot in India.
Mission Impossible 4- Ghost Protocol stars Tom Cruise, Anil Kapoor, Jeremy Renner and Paul Patton and is slated for December release.
Yes, Mission Impossible 4-Ghost Protocol which marks Anil Kapoor's debut in mainstream Hollywood is being shot in South Mumbai.
According to insiders, the second unit of the film will be shooting most of the action and outdoor of Mumbai which will mainly be action scenes including car chase.
On Sunday, double of Tom Cruise and the heroine were spotted driving a specially designed BMW SS01 for the film through the bylanes of Bora Bazar situated opposite CST railway station."
A source close to the unit said, "unfortunately none of the main actors of the film including Tom Cruise and Anil Kapoor will be shooting on location here in India. The unit will be travelling to Bangalore after completing the Mumbai schedule within a few days."
Tom Cruise and Anil Kapoor have already shot the interior portions of Mumbai and Bangalore in Dubai and Vancouver which will be later matched with the sequences shot in India.
Mission Impossible 4- Ghost Protocol stars Tom Cruise, Anil Kapoor, Jeremy Renner and Paul Patton and is slated for December release.
Friday 22 April 2011
Munni has doubts about Deepika dum
While talking about Sheila, we can't give other hottie Munni a miss, na? And ever since Munni scorched the scenes, Malaika Arora Khan has emerged as the queen of sizzlers.
She's almost the final authority on item numbers, so zoOm quizzed her on the recent chartbuster, Dum Maaro Dum (where Deepika's sexily gyrating to the song), and she unabashedly confessed, "I think the original song with Zeenat Aman was much better."
During an interview, the lovely Zeenat told us, "I haven't seen the song, though I think Deepika is a fine performer." Hmmnnn...is Munni saying that Ms. Dee's item could have some more dum. We'd love to see your moves on this track, lady. Bring it on, and let the music begin...
For the hottest Bollywood news and gossip, keep watching Planet Bollywood everyday at 7pm, only on zoOm!
She's almost the final authority on item numbers, so zoOm quizzed her on the recent chartbuster, Dum Maaro Dum (where Deepika's sexily gyrating to the song), and she unabashedly confessed, "I think the original song with Zeenat Aman was much better."
During an interview, the lovely Zeenat told us, "I haven't seen the song, though I think Deepika is a fine performer." Hmmnnn...is Munni saying that Ms. Dee's item could have some more dum. We'd love to see your moves on this track, lady. Bring it on, and let the music begin...
For the hottest Bollywood news and gossip, keep watching Planet Bollywood everyday at 7pm, only on zoOm!
Thursday 21 April 2011
I feel so empty without my family Akshay
Bollywood star Akshay Kumar is a family man! Whenever he is busy shooting or travelling abroad without his wife Twinkle, and son Aarav, he says the pain is unmatched.
"I know everyone thinks an actor's life is grand, but believe me filming everyday of the year & having to miss even 1 day of my son's life is more painful than getting kicked in the head!!," Akshay posted on his Twitter page.
Still, Akshay does not complain.
"But I do love my job & the places I get to take my family coz of it is most definitely the band-aid behind the pain," he added.
The 43-year-old is currently shooting for " Desi Boyz" with John Abraham in London. He was joined by his wife and son on the shoot and so Akshay was away from the social networking radar for a long time.
"When my family travels with me, I think of nothing else but filming and my family. I dont check emails, twitter disappears, my entire daily thought process becomes only about them," he posted.
Now that his family has returned home, Akshay is missing them.
"Since 'Thank You' released I've been filming in London with big butch John for Rohit Dawan's 'Desi Boyz' and my wife & son hav been with me the whole time. It's been wonderful. We rammed everyday with somethin special for Aarav & just enjoyed London life to da max. But sadly they've gone back to India now and i feel so empty without them (sic)," wrote Akshay.
"I know everyone thinks an actor's life is grand, but believe me filming everyday of the year & having to miss even 1 day of my son's life is more painful than getting kicked in the head!!," Akshay posted on his Twitter page.
Still, Akshay does not complain.
"But I do love my job & the places I get to take my family coz of it is most definitely the band-aid behind the pain," he added.
The 43-year-old is currently shooting for " Desi Boyz" with John Abraham in London. He was joined by his wife and son on the shoot and so Akshay was away from the social networking radar for a long time.
"When my family travels with me, I think of nothing else but filming and my family. I dont check emails, twitter disappears, my entire daily thought process becomes only about them," he posted.
Now that his family has returned home, Akshay is missing them.
"Since 'Thank You' released I've been filming in London with big butch John for Rohit Dawan's 'Desi Boyz' and my wife & son hav been with me the whole time. It's been wonderful. We rammed everyday with somethin special for Aarav & just enjoyed London life to da max. But sadly they've gone back to India now and i feel so empty without them (sic)," wrote Akshay.
Style check Sonakshi Sinha
The decidedly demure Sonakshi Sinha has been experimenting with her looks of late. The voluminous salwar kameezes and burkini-style ensembles have given way to more sensuous and trendier silhouettes with just that tiny bit of skin show to keep viewer interest alive.
1. The Look :A printed toga dress with a trendy side braid with nude peep toes at a media event. Pink lips and scarlet nails add a spot of colour to what could have been a monochromatic look.
We say :Though the elegant dress should ideally have been off the shoulder, Sonakshi manages to look quite charming.
2. The Look :A smocked, printed summer dress and charms on her wrist for a fashion event. The nude peep toes seem to have become a wardrobe staple. Ditto for the pink lips.
We say :Unfortunately, Sonakshi looks rather uncomfortable in this ill-fitting number.
3. The Look : A printed Tee, skinny jeans and black flip flops with her favourite fuschia lips to a movie screening. The aviator shades are so very Dabangg.
We say: Casual, yes. Chic? Not quite. With a pretty face and that luminous smile, Sonakshi can pull of anything. Even this uninspired sophomoric look.
1. The Look :A printed toga dress with a trendy side braid with nude peep toes at a media event. Pink lips and scarlet nails add a spot of colour to what could have been a monochromatic look.
We say :Though the elegant dress should ideally have been off the shoulder, Sonakshi manages to look quite charming.
2. The Look :A smocked, printed summer dress and charms on her wrist for a fashion event. The nude peep toes seem to have become a wardrobe staple. Ditto for the pink lips.
We say :Unfortunately, Sonakshi looks rather uncomfortable in this ill-fitting number.
3. The Look : A printed Tee, skinny jeans and black flip flops with her favourite fuschia lips to a movie screening. The aviator shades are so very Dabangg.
We say: Casual, yes. Chic? Not quite. With a pretty face and that luminous smile, Sonakshi can pull of anything. Even this uninspired sophomoric look.
John moves on, gets close with Deepika
While Bipasha has been hanging out with Rana and Josh after the big break up, her ex seems to have found a friend in Deepika
If filmmakers turned the cameras to capture the behind-the-scenes at film sets, they would be guaranteed blockbuster hits. After all it's the film sets that go on to define Bollywood's friendships and fallouts.
This time around, Rohit Dhawan's Desi Boyz has given John Abraham and Deepika Padukone an opportunity to bond.
Shooting for a song for more than half a day in Brighton, London, has seemed to have blossomed the new friendship.Of course the inevitable whispers of something more than "just friendship" brewing between the two has been abuzz in the industry.
A source tells us, "John's camaraderie with Deepika has been the talk of the industry. Both appeared extremely comfortable, in each other's company in London."
Reiterating popular sentiments, the source added, "One never expected John and Deepika to bond with each other and that too so soon. But it has happened."
When asked about Deepika, John said, "She's sweet and professional." We wonder if her beau Siddartha Mallya will also think of this 'new friendship' as a sweet and professional one, especially since he has been spotted alone at quite a few matches of the Royal Challengers Bangalore, at the on-going IPL tournament.
While Deepika remained unavailable for comment, a friend of hers called to defend her. She told us, "How can she come down for all the matches to be with Siddhartha, when she was shooting for Desi Boyz in London, during that time?" Ironically, Deepika, who has publicly moved around with Siddhartha, has never confirmed her relationship with him till date.
If filmmakers turned the cameras to capture the behind-the-scenes at film sets, they would be guaranteed blockbuster hits. After all it's the film sets that go on to define Bollywood's friendships and fallouts.
This time around, Rohit Dhawan's Desi Boyz has given John Abraham and Deepika Padukone an opportunity to bond.
Shooting for a song for more than half a day in Brighton, London, has seemed to have blossomed the new friendship.Of course the inevitable whispers of something more than "just friendship" brewing between the two has been abuzz in the industry.
A source tells us, "John's camaraderie with Deepika has been the talk of the industry. Both appeared extremely comfortable, in each other's company in London."
Reiterating popular sentiments, the source added, "One never expected John and Deepika to bond with each other and that too so soon. But it has happened."
When asked about Deepika, John said, "She's sweet and professional." We wonder if her beau Siddartha Mallya will also think of this 'new friendship' as a sweet and professional one, especially since he has been spotted alone at quite a few matches of the Royal Challengers Bangalore, at the on-going IPL tournament.
While Deepika remained unavailable for comment, a friend of hers called to defend her. She told us, "How can she come down for all the matches to be with Siddhartha, when she was shooting for Desi Boyz in London, during that time?" Ironically, Deepika, who has publicly moved around with Siddhartha, has never confirmed her relationship with him till date.
Shahid Heer Ranjha shelved
Shahid Kapoor's ambitious project Heer Ranjha is in trouble once again. It has been in the news for the past few months.
First the love story was to star his on-and-off girlfriend Priyanka Chopra. Then there were talks of Sarah Jane Dias, Anushka Sharma and Nargis Fakhri being considered to play the role. However now, the film has been shelved.
Producer Sajid Nadiadwala, it is learnt, is not happy with the way the second half of the story has developed. Hence he has decided to drop the period romance altogether and make another film starring Shahid, since he already has the actor's dates.
Sajid confirms, "It is true that Heer Ranjha is on hold right now. We are working with Shahid on a different venture. The announcement on this will come soon."
First the love story was to star his on-and-off girlfriend Priyanka Chopra. Then there were talks of Sarah Jane Dias, Anushka Sharma and Nargis Fakhri being considered to play the role. However now, the film has been shelved.
Producer Sajid Nadiadwala, it is learnt, is not happy with the way the second half of the story has developed. Hence he has decided to drop the period romance altogether and make another film starring Shahid, since he already has the actor's dates.
Sajid confirms, "It is true that Heer Ranjha is on hold right now. We are working with Shahid on a different venture. The announcement on this will come soon."
Who is Kunal mom asks Soha
While Soha's bro Saif is all ready to produce a film for her beau, Kunal Kemmu, her mom Sharmila didn't even know who the actor was until she learnt that her daughter was dating him.
Soha recounted the incident to TOI, which resulted from a long-winding conversation. "Whenever I have to go somewhere with my mom, I'm pretty scared. You know, I am a very last-minute person. Like, I'll never decide on my clothes until the eleventh hour.
And the moment I hurriedly get ready, amma will look at me from head to toe and say, 'So, you will wear this and come along? I mean these shoes and umm... this dress? Okaay...' And amma is just the opposite – her things are in place well ahead of time, and she's very proper about everything," Soha told us.
So then, how was it working with her mother for the first time, for UK-based filmmaker Sangeeta Datta's "Life Goes On"? "I was not scared of the experience of working with her. For, we both are very comfortable with each other. We don't tread on each other's nerves. Like, for instance, if I know she's not in a good mood, I won't nudge her. I'd rather let her be. Same is for her when I'm not in a good mood, so we both give each other good space, which is why working with her was fine. I think people around me scared me saying stuff like 'You know what? This is your first scene with your mom, so better be careful'. In my first scene, I had to tell my mother that I've been dating someone and that I'm now expecting. And she gave me a stern expression... and that expression was very familiar, as I had seen it on her face sooo many times in real life," Soha laughed.
So, how were things when she had to tell her mom about her boyfriend for the first time? She laughed and ensured us that nothing filmi happened, and that things were rather funny. "Actually, amma didn't really know who Kunal Kemmu was! She hadn't seen his work or his films. But she had once come to the sets of "99" (in which Soha starred with Kunal). At that time, we were shooting a scene where Kunal was only in a pink-coloured bath robe. So, when I told her about me and Kunal, she asked 'Who is Kunal Kemmu?' Then I explained, 'Amma, remember the guy in that pink bath robe that day? It's him.' She said, 'Umm... okay! Strange choice!'" Soha broke into laughter again, "So she didn't really know him, but she's got to know him and his work now, over the past one-and-a-half years, and the two get along really well now."
Does that mean something funny happened when she told her dad? "Oh no no. He knows that I am a grown up and feels that it's me who has to live with the person I marry, so as long as I am happy, he's fine. Dad's very supportive and loving, but he doesn't really get involved in my personal life beyond a point. You know, you expect your mom to be the bridge between you and your dad. In college days, I remember, dad would talk to me about 'How are money matters? Whether I was okay with the money I have or I want more? And also whether my studies are going well? With mom I used to discuss more personal matters," Soha said.
Talking of personal matters, both Soha and Saif have been very open about their relationships, and not their respective partners. Any particular reason? "No, it's just that we feel there's nothing secretive about being in a relationship with someone. Even our parents were very open and vocal about their relationship. That too in an era when a Hindu and a Muslim being together was such a taboo. So I guess, we've learnt it from them," she said.
Soha recounted the incident to TOI, which resulted from a long-winding conversation. "Whenever I have to go somewhere with my mom, I'm pretty scared. You know, I am a very last-minute person. Like, I'll never decide on my clothes until the eleventh hour.
And the moment I hurriedly get ready, amma will look at me from head to toe and say, 'So, you will wear this and come along? I mean these shoes and umm... this dress? Okaay...' And amma is just the opposite – her things are in place well ahead of time, and she's very proper about everything," Soha told us.
So then, how was it working with her mother for the first time, for UK-based filmmaker Sangeeta Datta's "Life Goes On"? "I was not scared of the experience of working with her. For, we both are very comfortable with each other. We don't tread on each other's nerves. Like, for instance, if I know she's not in a good mood, I won't nudge her. I'd rather let her be. Same is for her when I'm not in a good mood, so we both give each other good space, which is why working with her was fine. I think people around me scared me saying stuff like 'You know what? This is your first scene with your mom, so better be careful'. In my first scene, I had to tell my mother that I've been dating someone and that I'm now expecting. And she gave me a stern expression... and that expression was very familiar, as I had seen it on her face sooo many times in real life," Soha laughed.
So, how were things when she had to tell her mom about her boyfriend for the first time? She laughed and ensured us that nothing filmi happened, and that things were rather funny. "Actually, amma didn't really know who Kunal Kemmu was! She hadn't seen his work or his films. But she had once come to the sets of "99" (in which Soha starred with Kunal). At that time, we were shooting a scene where Kunal was only in a pink-coloured bath robe. So, when I told her about me and Kunal, she asked 'Who is Kunal Kemmu?' Then I explained, 'Amma, remember the guy in that pink bath robe that day? It's him.' She said, 'Umm... okay! Strange choice!'" Soha broke into laughter again, "So she didn't really know him, but she's got to know him and his work now, over the past one-and-a-half years, and the two get along really well now."
Does that mean something funny happened when she told her dad? "Oh no no. He knows that I am a grown up and feels that it's me who has to live with the person I marry, so as long as I am happy, he's fine. Dad's very supportive and loving, but he doesn't really get involved in my personal life beyond a point. You know, you expect your mom to be the bridge between you and your dad. In college days, I remember, dad would talk to me about 'How are money matters? Whether I was okay with the money I have or I want more? And also whether my studies are going well? With mom I used to discuss more personal matters," Soha said.
Talking of personal matters, both Soha and Saif have been very open about their relationships, and not their respective partners. Any particular reason? "No, it's just that we feel there's nothing secretive about being in a relationship with someone. Even our parents were very open and vocal about their relationship. That too in an era when a Hindu and a Muslim being together was such a taboo. So I guess, we've learnt it from them," she said.
Wednesday 20 April 2011
Aamir offered me a job Chintu
Not many know that Aamir was the one who introduced Chintu to the gloss and glamour of the B-town.
Fondly recalling his first meeting with the actor, Satyajeet says, "The lure of arc lights drove me to Mumbai from Nagpur.
I was luckily present at the shooting of Aamir's movie Ishq in 1997 when I garnered his attention with my mean, muscled look and toned body.
He immediately sent a spot boy and called for me.
After the introduction, much to my awe, Aamir offered me the job to be his physical trainer and asked me to shift to Mumbai. I was floored by his down-to-earth demeanour and just couldn't believe my luck.
That's how my association with Aamir and my innings as a celebrity fitness trainer began."
Fondly recalling his first meeting with the actor, Satyajeet says, "The lure of arc lights drove me to Mumbai from Nagpur.
I was luckily present at the shooting of Aamir's movie Ishq in 1997 when I garnered his attention with my mean, muscled look and toned body.
He immediately sent a spot boy and called for me.
After the introduction, much to my awe, Aamir offered me the job to be his physical trainer and asked me to shift to Mumbai. I was floored by his down-to-earth demeanour and just couldn't believe my luck.
That's how my association with Aamir and my innings as a celebrity fitness trainer began."
Shilpa to host Shane-Elizabeth
Shilpa Shetty and Raj Kundra will host international poster couple Shane Warne and Elizabeth Hurley in Rajasthan. Liz, who joined Shane and the team during their Bangalore game on Tuesday night, has bonded well with the owners and the team.Shilpa is planning a lavish dinner for Liz. Says a source, "After Liz landed, she spent a couple of hours with Shane before he headed for practice and team meetings. He wrapped up early and joined her...
they had lots to catch up on, given that they hadn't seen each other for almost a month."
The source adds, "There's likely to be a bash for Liz in Mumbai, too, by Shilpa and Raj. The logistics have to be worked out. The Royals camp is naturally buzzing with the hot model's presence amidst them.
The source adds, "There's likely to be a bash for Liz in Mumbai, too, by Shilpa and Raj. The logistics have to be worked out. The Royals camp is naturally buzzing with the hot model's presence amidst them.
Everyone wants to see how the lovebirds are in public, but Shane is making sure that such personal things are not a distraction for the boys."
I love Sanju's style Salman
Salman Khan admits that he grew up admiring Sanjay Dutt. "I loved everything about Sanju from his physique, to his style and walk,"' says Salman. In fact, when Salman (45) who is younger than Sanju (52), was growing up he would even work out at Sanju's gym.
In short, these two men bonded big time. The relationship has grown to the next level now.
A month ago when Sanju was shooting for Rascals in Bangkok and Salman was there for Ready, the two actors often spent evenings together. The inside story is that Ajay Devgn and Sanjay have even done cameos in Ready because Salman has requested them to. But the important thing in all this is Salman's concern for Sanju. An insider says, "Sanju talked to Salman about wanting to lose weight." And Salman, who has the best physique in B-town (that's why he constantly drops his shirt!), has given Sanju a diet and exercise chart.
Salman refuses to divulge the details of his diet recommendation to Sanju but one hears that he has asked Sanju to abstain from alcohol at least five time a week and put him on the perfect protein and carb combination alongwith giving him the perfect muscle building workout regime. Says our source, "Sanju is religiously following Salman's diet advice.
If all goes well, when Sanju starts to shoot his portion as the baddie for Agneepath in May, he will be perfectly beefed up." Everyone knows that Sanju in his kancha-cheena avatar will take on Hrithik Roshan as Vijay Dinanath Chauhan in Agneepath. And though Salman will not say it, one thing is sure; he wants his friend Sanjay to not only stand tall next to Hrithik, he wants Sanju to completely overshadow Duggu. The Salman-Hrithik war of words after Guzaarish could have something to do with this!
In short, these two men bonded big time. The relationship has grown to the next level now.
A month ago when Sanju was shooting for Rascals in Bangkok and Salman was there for Ready, the two actors often spent evenings together. The inside story is that Ajay Devgn and Sanjay have even done cameos in Ready because Salman has requested them to. But the important thing in all this is Salman's concern for Sanju. An insider says, "Sanju talked to Salman about wanting to lose weight." And Salman, who has the best physique in B-town (that's why he constantly drops his shirt!), has given Sanju a diet and exercise chart.
Salman refuses to divulge the details of his diet recommendation to Sanju but one hears that he has asked Sanju to abstain from alcohol at least five time a week and put him on the perfect protein and carb combination alongwith giving him the perfect muscle building workout regime. Says our source, "Sanju is religiously following Salman's diet advice.
If all goes well, when Sanju starts to shoot his portion as the baddie for Agneepath in May, he will be perfectly beefed up." Everyone knows that Sanju in his kancha-cheena avatar will take on Hrithik Roshan as Vijay Dinanath Chauhan in Agneepath. And though Salman will not say it, one thing is sure; he wants his friend Sanjay to not only stand tall next to Hrithik, he wants Sanju to completely overshadow Duggu. The Salman-Hrithik war of words after Guzaarish could have something to do with this!
Ranbir-Imran to clash
Rockstar and Mere Brother Ki Dulhan are both scheduled for a same date release
Ranbir Kapoor and Imran Khan had just about started to be polite to one another again. And here's a news break; their films Rockstar and Mere Brother Ki Dulhan will release on September 9.
Stand back for fireworks again. Yup! both Ranbir and Imran's PR machineries will now get into an overdrive in an attempt to prove which of them is the bigger box office attraction. Anyway the important thing here is: how did this catastrophe happen?
A trade source says, "Imtiaz Ali who is working with AR Rahman on the music of Rockstar had to push his release date back from July. The producers apparently, decided they would either come with Salman Khan's Bodyguard on Eid (August-end) or a fortnight after that.
The trade advised them not to clash with Bodyguard because Salman's last two Eid releases Wanted and Dabangg have proved that he is invincible at that point.
So, Rockstar was preparing for a September 9 release. But even before they could announce the date, Aditya Chopra announced that he will release Mere Brother Ki Dulhan with Katrina Kaif and Imran on this date. So, now Ranbir and Imran will clash instead of Ranbir and Salman.
" Incidentally, Kat will also clash with her ex-boyfriend and his current love interest Nargis. Incidentally one thing that both Rockstar and MBKD have going for them is their good music tracks. Of course no one will hear the sweet sound of the music, because there will be total PR cacophony instead!
Ranbir Kapoor and Imran Khan had just about started to be polite to one another again. And here's a news break; their films Rockstar and Mere Brother Ki Dulhan will release on September 9.
Stand back for fireworks again. Yup! both Ranbir and Imran's PR machineries will now get into an overdrive in an attempt to prove which of them is the bigger box office attraction. Anyway the important thing here is: how did this catastrophe happen?
A trade source says, "Imtiaz Ali who is working with AR Rahman on the music of Rockstar had to push his release date back from July. The producers apparently, decided they would either come with Salman Khan's Bodyguard on Eid (August-end) or a fortnight after that.
The trade advised them not to clash with Bodyguard because Salman's last two Eid releases Wanted and Dabangg have proved that he is invincible at that point.
So, Rockstar was preparing for a September 9 release. But even before they could announce the date, Aditya Chopra announced that he will release Mere Brother Ki Dulhan with Katrina Kaif and Imran on this date. So, now Ranbir and Imran will clash instead of Ranbir and Salman.
" Incidentally, Kat will also clash with her ex-boyfriend and his current love interest Nargis. Incidentally one thing that both Rockstar and MBKD have going for them is their good music tracks. Of course no one will hear the sweet sound of the music, because there will be total PR cacophony instead!
Tuesday 19 April 2011
Hera Pheri 4 sorted out
It is learnt that the fourth part of the Hera Pheri series is finally ready to roll after a brief hiccup over the dates of the stars.
Now that is sorted out and the film will again bring in the hit cast of Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty and Paresh Rawal together in a rib-tickling plot. Anees Bazmee will director this one.
Akki and Anna who are busy with several projects need some time more to sort out date issues, so the film won't go on the floors till next year. However, it will happen.
Now that is sorted out and the film will again bring in the hit cast of Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty and Paresh Rawal together in a rib-tickling plot. Anees Bazmee will director this one.
Akki and Anna who are busy with several projects need some time more to sort out date issues, so the film won't go on the floors till next year. However, it will happen.
KJo's coffee party ends
Filmmaker Karan Johar says he will miss the fun of shooting for his popular celebrity chat show " Koffee With Karan", the third season of which has come to an end.
"KWK3 bids farewell tonight... thank you for all the love people... it has been a steaming ride!! Will miss this kaffeine kick tremendously!!!," Johar posted on his Twitter page Sunday night.
The 38-year-old invited interesting combinations of film celebrities like Sonam Kapoor-Deepika Padukone, Imran Khan-Ranbir Kapoor, Madhuri Dixit-Sonakshi Sinha, Shahid Kapoor-Priyanka Chopra and Ranvir Singh-Anushka Sharma, among others. Some of the chats led to spicy controversies too.
"KWK3 bids farewell tonight... thank you for all the love people... it has been a steaming ride!! Will miss this kaffeine kick tremendously!!!," Johar posted on his Twitter page Sunday night.
The 38-year-old invited interesting combinations of film celebrities like Sonam Kapoor-Deepika Padukone, Imran Khan-Ranbir Kapoor, Madhuri Dixit-Sonakshi Sinha, Shahid Kapoor-Priyanka Chopra and Ranvir Singh-Anushka Sharma, among others. Some of the chats led to spicy controversies too.
Sunday 17 April 2011
Barbara Mori is coming back
The Mexican siren is charging a whopping fee of 12 crore to be paired with Rajeev Khandelwal for a Hindi film
Barbara Mori's love-affair with India continues despite her painful debut with Hrithik Roshan in Kites. Now the actress returns to Hindi films in a film titled Fever, co-starring Rajeev Khandelwal. She plays the character of a linguist and it is learnt that Mori is being paid 300,000 dollars for the film (over 12 crore).
That's much more than what our A-list actresses charge. Her film is to be directed by Rajeev Jhaveri, who has previously made the award-winning short film Cold Meat. He also wrote Kuch To Hai (produced by Ekta Kapoor) and Dhoondte Reh Jaoge.
Fever is set to be shot in Cornwall (England) through June-July. The film, like Kites, will star another Indian heroine. It's produced by Ravi Agrawal, who has earlier made films like Radio and Deadline-Sirf 24 Ghante.
Barbara Mori's love-affair with India continues despite her painful debut with Hrithik Roshan in Kites. Now the actress returns to Hindi films in a film titled Fever, co-starring Rajeev Khandelwal. She plays the character of a linguist and it is learnt that Mori is being paid 300,000 dollars for the film (over 12 crore).
That's much more than what our A-list actresses charge. Her film is to be directed by Rajeev Jhaveri, who has previously made the award-winning short film Cold Meat. He also wrote Kuch To Hai (produced by Ekta Kapoor) and Dhoondte Reh Jaoge.
Fever is set to be shot in Cornwall (England) through June-July. The film, like Kites, will star another Indian heroine. It's produced by Ravi Agrawal, who has earlier made films like Radio and Deadline-Sirf 24 Ghante.
Punit is Sonam good boy
Sonam Kapoor finds her boyfriend, Punit Malhotra, to be a too 'goody boy' and has been telling her friends this.
Sonam apparently finds Punit to be completely opposite to her and that, her friends say, is what is working for them. Punit is a mush-ball and is super caring.
He was always beside Sonam during her illness and has also won over Anil Kapoor's heart. Let's hold on to our horses...the wedding bells are nowhere in the picture. The Kapoors are just happy that Sonam has a nice boyfriend who is a good influence on her.
Sonam apparently finds Punit to be completely opposite to her and that, her friends say, is what is working for them. Punit is a mush-ball and is super caring.
He was always beside Sonam during her illness and has also won over Anil Kapoor's heart. Let's hold on to our horses...the wedding bells are nowhere in the picture. The Kapoors are just happy that Sonam has a nice boyfriend who is a good influence on her.
Vindu Sonakshi fight it out
Actors Sonakshi Sinha and Vindu Dara Singh had fun while shooting for Shirish Kunder's " Joker" in Chandigarh.
Both of them used to play scrabble between shots and the competition was tough.Among the cast and crew,
Both of them used to play scrabble between shots and the competition was tough.Among the cast and crew,
Sonakshi was the best scrabble player, but Vindu was not far behind and used to give her a good fight. The film also stars Akshay Kumar.
"It is always like picnic shooting with Akshay. This time around Sonakshi was with us. She is very good at scrabble.
"It is always like picnic shooting with Akshay. This time around Sonakshi was with us. She is very good at scrabble.
When we played, she always won but, even she agrees with me that I gave her good fight as no could on the set," said Vindu.
SRK has no time for friends like me Juhi
Shah Rukh Khan and Juhi Chawla have been friends since their Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman days. Their last film together was Amol Palekar's Paheli.
Since then both have done cameos in each other's films, Bhoothnath, Krazzy 4 and Om Shanti Om cementing a bond, which has stayed as strong unlike many other Bollywood friendships..
They had even formed a partnership and produced films like Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani. But it dissolved. "I think Shah Rukh and I have remained friends because we stopped being business partners. I realise it's impossible to mix business with friendship," says Juhi citing the reason for it.
Admitting the fact that the friendship did have its rough phases, Juhi says, "Our relationship did go through a rough patch.
When I realized our friendship was suffering because of the partnership I chose to keep the friendship and let the business partnership go.
Today after a long gap we're again together in the IPL . Let's hope nothing goes wrong. I got to meet him at the match recently after so long. He has no time for friends like me."
However, at one point in time Shah Rukh had been by Juhi's side when she needed a friend. "When I lost my mother in Prague while shooting for Duplicate in 1998, Shah Rukh was there right beside me like a pillar of strength.
Isn't that what a true friendship is all about?"
Since then both have done cameos in each other's films, Bhoothnath, Krazzy 4 and Om Shanti Om cementing a bond, which has stayed as strong unlike many other Bollywood friendships..
They had even formed a partnership and produced films like Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani. But it dissolved. "I think Shah Rukh and I have remained friends because we stopped being business partners. I realise it's impossible to mix business with friendship," says Juhi citing the reason for it.
Admitting the fact that the friendship did have its rough phases, Juhi says, "Our relationship did go through a rough patch.
When I realized our friendship was suffering because of the partnership I chose to keep the friendship and let the business partnership go.
Today after a long gap we're again together in the IPL . Let's hope nothing goes wrong. I got to meet him at the match recently after so long. He has no time for friends like me."
However, at one point in time Shah Rukh had been by Juhi's side when she needed a friend. "When I lost my mother in Prague while shooting for Duplicate in 1998, Shah Rukh was there right beside me like a pillar of strength.
Isn't that what a true friendship is all about?"
Shahid Kapoor to do a Tom Cruise
Director Siddharth Anand confirmed it will be an action packed film; industry speculates it's a remake of Hollywood hit Knight and Day
On April 17, 2011, Mumbai Mirror broke the news that Shahid Kapoor will star in a suspected action flick directed by Siddharth Anand and produced by Ramesh Taurani of Tips.
The industry is abuzz with speculation that the film is along the lines of the Hollywood hit Knight and Day, starring Tom Cruise.
A source close to the Tips production house, told us, "It is quite similar to the movie Knight and Day. In fact the filmmakers want to purchase the rights to the original."
Although Anand confirms that Kapoor will have his first shot in an action film, he denies the rumours about its similarity to the Hollywood movie. He tells us, "No, Tips has got nothing to do with Knight and Day.
We are making an original film. It's a different genre altogether. Shahid's film is an all out action flick."
Taurani, on the other hand, not only dismisses the speculations but also manages to contradict the genre of the film that Anand confirmed.
The head honcho of Tips said, "What is this film Knight and Day? No it's wrong. We are making a romantic film, not action."
On April 17, 2011, Mumbai Mirror broke the news that Shahid Kapoor will star in a suspected action flick directed by Siddharth Anand and produced by Ramesh Taurani of Tips.
The industry is abuzz with speculation that the film is along the lines of the Hollywood hit Knight and Day, starring Tom Cruise.
A source close to the Tips production house, told us, "It is quite similar to the movie Knight and Day. In fact the filmmakers want to purchase the rights to the original."
Although Anand confirms that Kapoor will have his first shot in an action film, he denies the rumours about its similarity to the Hollywood movie. He tells us, "No, Tips has got nothing to do with Knight and Day.
We are making an original film. It's a different genre altogether. Shahid's film is an all out action flick."
Taurani, on the other hand, not only dismisses the speculations but also manages to contradict the genre of the film that Anand confirmed.
The head honcho of Tips said, "What is this film Knight and Day? No it's wrong. We are making a romantic film, not action."
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