News # 96

This News is from “www.santabanta.com”


* Crowd go crazy over Salman!

Bollywood actor Salman Khan Sunday cut short his visit to a music store in a suburb here after being mobbed by fans.

Salman, who agreed to visit the Global Bollywood Music store in the suburb of Fordsburg, had to leave in another car when even his security guards failed to keep the crowds away.

About 2,000 fans jostled with each other to secure a photograph or autograph of the star.

Smiling briefly as he emerged from a limousine earlier, Khan did not utter a single word to his fans. However, he obliged some of the children in the store with autographs.

Appearing tired from his show in Durban the previous night, Khan put in the appearance to help promote his show "Sensations 2005" scheduled later at Gallagher Estate here.

Khan, who has performed in South Africa several times in the past, ranks among the four most popular Bollywood actors in South Africa, after Shah Rukh Khan, Amitabh Bachchan and Hrithik Roshan.

News # 97

This News is from “www.santabanta.com”


* Vivek - Sunny Deol team up!

With Vivek Oberoi teaming up with Sunny Deol, this whole theme of male bonding is becoming quite an event in filmdom.

Vivek in fact has made a career out of films on male bonding.

In his new film "Kaal", he spends more time with his male co-stars Ajay Devgan and John Abraham than actresses Lara Dutta and Esha Deol.

Grins Vivek: "John and I became really close friends. He's a genuinely nice guy. And we got along really well."

In "Company" he bonded with Ajay Devgan. In "Yuva" he had Abhishek Bachchan and Ajay for company. In "Masti", Vivek whooped it up with Riteish Deshmukh and Aftab Shivdasani.

But the best is yet to come. In what seems the oddest pair of guys having a ball, Vivek and the indefatigable Sunny Deol will be seen in an out-and-out action film - Vivek's first and Sunny's umpteenth.

Sunny has been going a through a reclusive phase after his latest back surgery. He's all set to return with Rahul Rawail's comedy "Jo Bole So Nihal" in May.

Enthuses Vivek: "Sunny and I start shooting for Sachin Bajaj's actioner on May 4. I'm so excited. I've always been a great Sunny Deol fan. To me real, Hindi cinema is "Gadar" where Sunny wrenches off the water pump and uses it as a weapon. Wow! For the first time, I get to work with Sunny. I'm so excited.

"It's an adventure-comedy. I love my character, the youthful exuberance of the script and the style imagined for the film. It's going to be my showcase for some kick-*donkey* action. It will be my first full-fledged action film. Though "Yuva" was an action film I didn't have any action to do. I want to fly across rooms and waltz in the sky. This is my fantasy come true," Vivek added.

Bajaj is a very dear friend of Vivek. They were working on another project called "Baraat". "But that didn't work out," Vivek explained.

Perhaps a solo Vivek starrer doesn't appear commercially viable after "Kisna". Hopefully, Vivek's friendship with this new director won't turn sour as it did with Shaad Ali and Samir Karnik after "Saathiya" and "Kyun... Ho Gaya Na" respectively.

Indra Kumar has also signed Vivek for his next comedy after "Masti".

"That's right," grinned Vivek. "It's an out and out laughathon called "Pyare Mohan". No double-meaning jokes this time."

News # 98

This News is from “www.indiatarget.com”


* Mujhse Shaadi Karogi' sweeps the IIFA technical awards!
by Debasis Jana

Akshay Kumar, Salman Khan and Priyanka Chopra starrer 'Mujhse Shaadi Karogi' shone again in winning IIFA awards. The film has won four awards in technical categories. For this film, Farah Khan won the best choreographer award, Vikram Phadnis won best costume designer award, Salim-Sulaiman selected as the best background scorer, while Sharmishta Roy won the best art director award.

News # 99

These News are from “www.indiafm.com”


* Spot the cook among the Kaal stars...
By IndiaFM News Bureau, May 02nd, 2005 - 1350 hrs IST

(You like Kelly on the bed or Kelly on the sofa?
“Kelly everywhere!” replied the luscious Lara)

That is Lara Dutta much in love with Kelly Dorjee. “Well, yes we are quite an item”, she winks. What distinguishes the couple from the regular girlfriend boyfriend pairs is that they do some very sensitive and then some seriously weird stuff for each other, right Lara? “Yeah, well we do manage some crazy time together” she laughs. The last we know of the two is that Kelly gifted her a broken violin on her birthday. “That's true and I treasure that” Lara says with an unfriendly firmness to her voice.

Uh huh…so what have the two been up to of recent? we tease. “Nothing really, actually haven't got much time. I have been really tied down with Kaal. Actually that's when we spent some time together. Kelly managed to catch me up for a couple of days at Jim Corbett where our first schedule was on. We used to chill out on the terrace of action director Allan Amin's apartment. He began the routine of cooking. That's when all of us used to unwind. Once Kelly joined in, he cooked us some fabulous Bhutanese meal” she gloats. So does her egghead make a good cook? “Hey don't address him like that…” she flares up. “Only I get to do that…” she adds. We have a good laugh. “But yes he makes a fabulous cook. Terror is the day when I will have to fix dinner. I have yet to take a good look at my kitchen, I can't remember the last time I went that way” the stunner guffaws.


* Promotions now Kooler than ever
By IndiaFM News Bureau, April 03rd, 2005 - 1100 hrs IST

“Balaji Telefilms pulls all stops to promote Kya Kool Hai Hum

The zany comedy 'Kya Kool Hai Hum' is just about everywhere - From Spykar outlets and Pantaloons to Baristas and PVR Cinemas, Shenazz Nadirshah (Creative Executive Producer & Head of Films Dept. (Prod & Mktg), Balaji Telefilms) promises us a kool, kool summer”.

With close to 15 tie-ups, the KKHH team could well write a handbook on movie marketing. So which came first - the brands or the movie? Clarifies Shenazz, “The products were woven into the script, the script was bound and then we began approaching the brands which fitted best.”

While both apparel brands Spykar and Pantaloons are promoting their range of 'KKHH' clothing, the Kool corners at the respective stores will host movie contests. Balaji also conducted a 9-city tour, which saw the star cast visit sponsor stores, multiplexes and music stores; and give away movie merchandise.

Co-partner Barista has come up with a special thirst-quencher 'The Kafe Kool Latte' which it has added to its regular fare while the official music channel MTV (which also has a presence in the movie) will host a series of KKHH specials.

There are other promotions as well on Channel V, Star News, Zoom and Sony Television. In fact Star Plus will see a never-before-done walkthrough with the KKHH star cast appearing in different shows during primetime.

# RAPID FIRE WITH SHENAZZ

Q. Subtle branding vs in-your-face placement - who draws the line?
A. The line has to be drawn by the Producer and supported by the brand. It is always the brand that insists on over the top exposure not realising it could hamper the brand image as well as the film.

Q. And who is to blame for this?
A. When a co-branded exercise backfires, the blame is put on the Producer/Director whereas it is the brand managers (and their agencies) who are to blame!

Q. Cross Promotions Vs In-Film Placement - which route would you prefer?
A. They are both hand in glove to a large extent. In film branding usually gets extended to cross promotions, as it's important for the brand association to reach the end consumer, but cross promotions may just be restricted to external tie-ups - some independent of the movie promotion altogether.

Q. Amitabh Bachchan recently said that Bollywood producers should get more 'marketing' savvy, would you agree?
A. He's right. We are westernized but not modernized. Whatever 'Spiderman' did for its promotions can never be a lesson in totality for our films. We need to understand which tools will suit the needs and sensibilities of our audience and then adapt the same accordingly for our films.

Q. How can we get more 'marketing' savvy? Any suggestions?
A. Perhaps marketing gurus should put together case studies of our past films along with reports that show how a 'XYZ' movie would have worked better if it had been marketed in a 'ABC' format.

News # 100

This News is from “www.aishwarya-forever.com”


* Ash Provoked into doing Mundhra film
by: Subhash K. Jha
- mid-day.com

Surprises have become a part of Aishwarya Rai’s personality. But this one would take even her close friends aback. Tonight, Aishwarya Rai is scheduled to fly off to London to shoot a major, hush-hush film.

"Yes, it’s called Provoked," she confirms. "I leave to shoot for a start-to-finish schedule in London, which ends in June. It’s the true story of a Punjabi woman named Kiranjit Ahluwalia, who left India to marry a London-based guy only to be badly abused in the marriage."

"She finally ends up in prison for murdering her husband. Her predicament connects with me in ways I never felt before."

Provoked is being directed by Jagmohan Mundhra, whose earlier credits include Kamla and Bawandar, both dealing with the subject of traumatised women.

"The director calls it his trilogy of tributes to Indian womanhood," says Ash. "It happened very suddenly. It all came together. I was in the UK for Mistress Of Spices when they approached me with the idea. I immediately consented. Within two weeks, everything fell in place."

The film is being produced by a friend of the Rais. "The producer is Dr Murli, who produced one my early films, Jeans. They’ve never exploited their relations with me. They came to me again only when they had the right project."

Provoked is based on a case that forced the law on crimes of passion to be amended in the UK. "I think Jagmohan Mundhra is the right person to tackle the subject," says the actress.

"What I find especially interesting is, eventually the woman finds justice within her horrific circumstances. I play the central character to give a known face to the woman’s plight. It’s a role that requires me to go through many shades."

"From hurt-shock-anger to a tentative sense of vindication…. This is actually the first time I’m playing a real-life character, so you can imagine my excitement and nervousness."

Provoked also features Miranda Richardson, Naveen Andrews, Jimmy Mistry and Nandita Das.

Info # 38

These Info are from “www.bollywoodworld.com”


* Exclusive: SRK's Paheli!

Opinion may be divided on Shah Rukh Khan's moustache, with many loving the superstar's new look and others nixing it, but there is no denying that the upcoming Paheli looks like one of the most colourful films we've seen in a long time.

Images from Amol Palekar's film look earthy yet unique, vivid yet ethereal.

Shah Rukh looks totally grounded as a Rajasthani villager, Rani Mukerji is simply stunning, while everyone else in the film looks refreshingly different.

Amitabh Bachchan looks enthused with his bright new avatar.

Paheli, shot by ace cinematographer Ravi K Chandran, has one of the freshest palettes seen in current cinema.


* In Australia, Preity misses mom, Mumbai
By IANS
May 03, 2005, 10:51

Mumbai, May 3 (IANS) Having already spent a month in Melbourne, Bollywood star Preity Zinta says she is missing her mother and Mumbai city.

"I'm going to be shooting here for so long I think I should just settle down in Australia!" chuckles Preity, who has been in Melbourne shooting for Yashraj production "Salaam Namaste" with Saif Ali Khan for over a month.

"I'm homesick. I miss mom and Mumbai... in that order. According to my horoscope, I'm destined to be globe-trotting for most of this year just like it happened last year," she told us on phone from Melbourne.

After Melbourne, Preity moves to Sydney for a Karan Johar film.

"So it's Australia all the way. I don't think I'll be back in India until October," she says.

"But you know what's the saddest part of being away from Mumbai for so long? People get a chance to spread rumours. The latest about me is that I have split with Ness Wadia. I wish I could give people reason to gossip about me."

Preity is, however, gung-ho about her new film.

"Fortunately 'Salaam Namaste' is shaping up so well... Director Siddharth knows his job. Whether it was Farhan Akhtar in 'Dil Chahta Hai' or Honey Irani in 'Armaan', I always enjoy working with new directors.

"They are so open to ideas, learning on the job so to speak. When I was shooting with Yash (Chopra) uncle for 'Veer-Zara', I just put my feet up and let him guide me through the film. Making a film is far more interactive with a newcomer like Siddharth."

Recalling how she signed the film, Preity says: "I still remember Siddharth came to me in Goa to read the script of 'Salaam Namaste'. He thought I'd say no because I've the reputation for being choosy. But one has to be careful. One wrong move and you're gone!"

© Copyright 2005 by MusicIndiaOnLine.com


* Aishwarya versus a 380-pound woman!
03rd May 2005 20.34 IST
By AKC Bureau

Aishwarya Rai is slated to appear in a special version of the American show ‘Jerry Springer: Too Hot For TV’ in which she will contest with a 380 pound woman.

Seen as a Bollywood ambassador in the US, Ash has already done a good bit by making appearances on David Letterman’s ‘Late Show’ and recently on Oprah Winfrey show. And now she is gearing up for some informal, sporty appearances.

American site thespoof.com reports that Ash will be appearing on ‘Jerry Springer: Too Hot For TV’ episode where she will “fight with a 380 pound woman in a trailer over some guy with a mullet, no teeth, and a 7th grade education.”

Knowing Ash’s conservative nature, she has been promised that no one will touch her unduly or kiss her or try to rip off her clothes.

Apart from this show, Ash is also reported to be booked for Roger Lodge’s show ‘Blind Date’. It is learnt that on the show Ash will date a former stripper named Lorenzo who will try to form a love connection with the Bollywood stunner during the episode.

Ash is believed to be very excited about these shows.

Info # 39

This Info is from “www.indiafm.com”


* OVERSEAS BOX-OFFICE
By Taran Adarsh, May 04th, 2005 - 0930 hrs IST

^ 'Kaal' Excels In U.K., Australia

KAAL, the third biggie to hit the marquee in April, has met with mixed reactions in the international circuit. The Ajay-Vivek-John starrer has met with decent success in U.S.A. [features in Top 30 charts], but excels in U.K. [features in Top 15 charts] and is fabulous in Australia.

Meanwhile, WAQT - THE RACE AGAINST TIME continues to set new records in U.K. The film has featured in the 'Top 10' charts in its second weekend as well.

Weekend: April 29 - May 1, 2005.

# U.K. BOX-OFFICE

· WAQT - THE RACE AGAINST TIME [last weekend: No. 10, this weekend: No. 10]: In its second weekend, the film has collected £ 149,054 on 33 screens, with the per screen average working out to £ 4,517. Total: £ 452,197 [approx. Rs. 3.72 crores].

· KAAL has debuted at No. 13 position. In its opening weekend, the film has collected £ 101,649 [approx. Rs. 83.72 lacs] on 21 screens, with the per screen average working out to £ 4,840.

Note:- In terms of screen average, KAAL is Ajay Devgan's second biggest opener [after LAJJA], but the biggest opener for the remaining four actors - Vivek, John, Esha and Lara.

^ Check out U.K. statistics [from 1999 to 2005] of Ajay Devgan | Vivek Oberoi | John Abraham | Lara Dutta | Esha Deol

· LUCKY - NO TIME FOR LOVE [last weekend: No. 29, this weekend: No. 41]: In its fourth weekend, the film has collected £ 4,797 on 8 screens, with the per screen average working out to £ 600. Total: £ 283,454 [approx. Rs. 2.33 crores].

· KHULLAM KHULLA PYAAR KAREN has debuted at No. 42 position. In its opening weekend, the film has collected £ 4,130 [approx. Rs. 3.40 lacs] on 5 screens, with the per screen average working out to £ 826.

^^ Check out U.K. statistics [from 1999 to 2005] of Govinda | Preity Zinta

· CHICKEN TIKKA MASALA [last weekend: No. 34, this weekend: No. 45]: In its second weekend, the film has collected £ 3,388 on 4 screens, with the per screen average working out to £ 847. Total: £ 18,815 [approx. Rs. 15.49 lacs].

· MUGHAL-E-AZAM [last weekend: No. 50, this weekend: No. 58]: In its fifth weekend, the film has collected £ 2,104 on 7 screens, with the per screen average working out to £ 301. Total: £ 69,075 [approx. Rs. 56.91 lacs].

## AT A GLANCE - SCREEN AVERAGES - U.K.

1. KAAL £ 4,840
2. WAQT - THE RACE AGAINST TIME £ 4,517
3. CHICKEN TIKKA MASALA £ 847
4. KHULLAM KHULLA PYAAR KAREN £ 826
5. LUCKY - NO TIME FOR LOVE £ 600
6. MUGHAL-E-AZAM £ 301

### U.S.A. BOX-OFFICE

· KAAL has debuted at No. 28 position. In its opening weekend, the film has collected $ 164,108 [approx. Rs. 71.55 lacs] on 40 screens, with the per screen average working out to $ 4,103.

· BRIDE AND PREJUDICE [last weekend: No. 47, this weekend: No. 54]: In its twelfth weekend, the film has collected $ 30,186 on 69 screens, with the per screen average working out to $ 437. Total: $ 6,538,905 [approx. Rs. 28.50 crores].

· MUGHAL-E-AZAM [last weekend: No. 85, this weekend: No. 100]: In its fifth weekend, the film has collected $ 3,232 on 6 screens, with the per screen average working out to $ 539. Total: $ 158,238 [approx. Rs. 68.99 lacs].

#### NEW YORK CITY BOX-OFFICE

· WAQT - THE RACE AGAINST TIME [last weekend: No. 27, this weekend: No. 34]: In its second weekend, the film has collected $ 8,514 on 2 screens, with the per screen average working out to $ 4,257. New York total: $ 23,056.

· MUGHAL-E-AZAM [last weekend: No. 56, this weekend: No. 57]: In its fifth weekend, the film has collected $ 1,672 on 1 screen. New York total: $ 18,986.

##### AUSTRALIA BOX-OFFICE
[4-day weekend: April 28 - May 1, 2005]

· In its opening weekend, KAAL has collected Australia $ 49,259 [approx. Rs. 16.69 lacs] on 6 screens, with the per screen average working out to $ 8,210.
Note:- In terms of screen average, KAAL is next to VEER-ZAARA [Australia $ 10,479], but better than WAQT - THE RACE AGAINST TIME [$ 4,908], LUCKY - NO TIME FOR LOVE [$ 3,359], BEWAFAA [$ 4,695], BLACK [$ 3,796], SHABD [$ 3,435], SWADES [$ 7,004] and CHOKHER BALI [$ 1,553].

Info # 40

These Info are from “www.indiafm.com”


* 'Naina' world premiere at Cannes
By Taran Adarsh, May 04th 2005 - 1030 hrs IST

iDream Productions' NAINA will have a world premiere at Cannes Film Festival. It will be screened in the market section at the Festival. The film will be aggressively marketed at Cannes with full page adverts in top film mags, Variety and Screen International.

Top studio houses, sales agents and distributors are expected to attend the screenings. In fact, a top U.K. distributor and a top independent U.S. distributor have shown a keen interest in acquiring Naina for the U.K. and U.S. territories.

The film, slated for May 20 release, will be distributed in India by S.P.E. Films India.


* SRK's most 'Colorful' event
By Taran Adarsh, May 04th 2005 - 1030 hrs IST

A novel film deserves an equally novel music launch. And that's precisely what Shah Rukh Khan did when he launched the music of PAHELI amidst the Mumbai media on May 3 at Taj Lands End, Bandra. Although T-Series released the sampler cassettes on the occasion, the cassettes and CDs will officially hit the marquee on May 7.

Incidentally, the music of all SRK productions, ASOKA, CHALTE CHALTE, MAIN HOON NA and now PAHELI, were launched at noon, unlike the trend of having music launches at night.

But the music launch of PAHELI was most 'colorful'. An ethnically decorated cart and miniature puppets greeted the invitees at the foyer of the hotel. Inside, a specially erected stage -- the kind you see in the villages of Rajasthan -- was erected for the music launch of the film by award winning art director Muneesh Sappal [PINJAR].

Sajid Khan conducted the show [he was sober this time around!], introducing the musical team of the film - music director M.M. Kreem, singers Sonu Nigam, Shreya Ghoshal, Madhushree and Kalapini. Subsequently, four pairs of dancers, dressed in Rajasthani attire, danced to the tracks of the film.

SRK and director Amol Palekar shared their experiences while making the film. Subsequently, Bhushan Kumar, the head honcho of T-Series, officially released the music.

Info # 41

These Info are from “www.bollywoodheaven.com”


* BOLLYWOOD BANTER
By Eye TV India Bureau

# “Bachchan Babua in desi form”

The industry as well as the moviegoers is anxiously waiting for 'Bunty Aur Babli' to watch the performance of the father-son duo, Amitabh and Abhishek, in it. Besides, this is the second movie of Abhishek with Rani; both of them shot to fame due to their excellent performances in 'Dhoom' and 'Veer Zaara', respectively. Abhishek plays Darshan Singh, a police officer in the crime branch in 'Bunty Aur Babli'. He enjoys smoking bidis, eating gram and defend the system from those criminals who want to break it. Everyone in the industry is hoping that 'Bunty Aur Babli' will turn Abhishek into a star.


## “Govinda ignores her heroine”

Actor-turned-politician Govinda has been facing a crisis in his filmi career as his movies are flopping, and the directors and the producers have been distancing themselves from him. In spite of this, Govinda has annoyed her co-star. Govinda's second heroine Aarti Chhabria in his next 'Sukh' has blamed him for keeping her away from the film's promos and from the press conference called to promote the film. Thus, Aarti is being deprived of whatever sukh (comfort) Govinda hopes from the movie for himself or the cast. Incidentally, all other artists, including Chunky Pandey, Priti Jhangiani and others, were present at the recently held press conference. However, Aarti was conspicuous by her absence.


### “Esha Deol's next”

Esha Deol confesses her mistake of entering into films pretty early and also of not choosing the right films. However, she denies that she didn't do certain films on her mother's advice. "In fact, I erred in not going by her advice. Had I heeded to her advice, I would have fared much better." She also admits that 'Dhoom' has helped her in removing the tag of flops. However, 'Dhoom' has placed her in the category of bold and sexy actresses. After all, one has to pay the fee for one's success. Esha has no regret though. "I have been receiving appreciation letters from my fans for my performance. Why do I need bother about the criticism of doing sexy scenes? But, I understand the line of demarcation, and shall never cross it. My sister Aahna and my mother are my strongest critics. They have no objection in my looking glamorous though. Even Sunny has no objection. I don't discus these things with them. I enjoy their confidence." When asked about her forthcoming movies, she said they are 'David Dhawan's 'Shaadi Number One' and Ghosh' 'Kahin Aag Na Lag Jaaye'." Besides, I am studying some scripts, but I shall not do more than two or three movies in a year."


#### “Urmila: I have a censor in me”

Rangeela girl Urmila Matondkar who is doing a thriller 'Naina', claims that she has a built-in censor in herself. Though she wore shorts and looked ultramodern in ' Rangeela', she never appeared vulgar. She is very critical of the recent movies like 'Jism', 'Murder' and 'Paap' in which the girls have shed clothes. "I don't think I can do this in my present life. I believe in glamour, but not in nudity or vulgarity. That's why I don't accept a movie unless a censor inside me clears it." Regarding the marriage, she says it will take place at an appropriate time. I am looking for a prince who is intelligent and sensitive too. I wish him to give me love and respect." She doesn't bother about awards nor does she accept a film from this point of view. "My audience is my award,'' she adds.

Info # 42

These Info are from “www.bollywoodheaven.com”


* BOLLYWOOD BANTER
By Eye TV India Bureau

# “Vidya scores over others”

Vidya Balan of Vidhu Vinod Chopra's 'Parineeta' has become popular with the directors. They are keen on signing her in their movies. She has scored over others by getting the sequel movie of 'Munnabhai MBBS'. She will now act in 'Lage Rahe Munnabhai' opposite Sanjay Dutt. This is in spite of the fact that in 'Parineeta' she has worked with both Saif Ali and Sanjay Dutt, and Saif Ali tried to woo her, but in vain. We wonder if it's Sanjay's score or that of Vidya?


## “Fear grips industry”

The revolution in the IT industry and the growing use of the latest technology has created a fear psychology in the film industry. The recent sting operation by a television channel showing Bollywood's two artists like Shakti Kapoor and Aman Verma in the casting couch scandal, has already warned everyone to distance oneself from any such things. Rakhi Sawant who has given very bold scenes in Deepak Tajori's 'Khamosh' is panicky, as some of these scenes have appeared on the Internet. Since Tijori has denied to have used these scenes for publicity, Rakhi presumes that some of her colleague has misused his mobile camera during her shoot and passed it over to the Internet. Earlier, some one had misused his mobile to show Kareena Kapoor and Shahid Kapoor lip locking at a pub. Hence, the whole industry has been under a constant threat, and wonders as to who would be the next target?

### “Rajpal's item number deleted”

Rajpal Yadav has suffered a shock after he found that an item song picturized on him in Ram Gopal Verma's new movie has been deleted. Yadav says that this item song had been telecast in the movie's promos on television. The item song read as 'Pyaar Dhokebaaz'. The item song had created a niche for itself by attracting the audience. However, the news about its deletion in the movie has shocked Rajpal beyond words. He is upset, as he has not been informed about the deletion.

#### “'Chhod Do Aanchal...' girl in movies”

The 'Chhod Do Aanchal' fame girl Kamna Jethmalani is very keen on entering Hindi films. At present, she is acting in a Telugi movie. Her music video had been a hit. She is proud of her innocent look, and therefore, averse to doing item numbers. She doesn't want to join the category of actresses who are ready to compromise on this count. She adds that in today's age of dubbing, the language is not a barrier.

##### “Rajesh excited and fearful too”

Yesteryears' super star Rajesh Khanna was found happy and fearful too. This happened recently when he visited Bangalore in Karnatak, to launch a lottery draw. As soon as he alighted from the plane, Rajesh Khanna found a huge crowd waiting outside on both sides of the roads to welcome their hero. Rajesh was too happy with the emerging crowds in South even. However, on finding the crowd coming closer to his car, he felt panicky. He thought the crowd might turn unmanageable though at heart he was more than excited finding girls greeting him with flying kisses and cheers. The actor-turned-politician heaved a sigh of relief after he had reached his destination.

###### “Bips banks on 'Apaharan'”

Bipasha Basu has been desperately looking for a hit for the last one year. She is targeting to hit 'Apaharan' soon. She is doing this movie in the role of a simple girl unlike in the past when she acted bold and sexy. She is playing opposite an established actor Ajay Devgan in 'Apaharan'. This is to recall that Bipasha Basu hasn't had hits on her own during the recent past though she rose to fame in the Bhatt camp's 'Raj' and 'Jism'. Prakash Jha, director of 'Apaharan' is confident that his movie will take Bipasha to a new height in the tinsel world. She will be then counted among the top heroines of Hindi movies.

Info # 43

This Info is from “www.bollyvista.com”


* 'I have not married,' says Divya Dutta
By Vickey Lalwani ©2005 Bollyvista.com

Divya Dutta is flabbergasted that a section of the press has married her off with her boyfriend Lt Commander Sandeep in her hometown, Chandigarh. Ever since that, the actress has been getting a lot of calls from friends and relatives demanding to know that how she tied the knot without informing them and throwing a party. "It has been very embarrassing explaining them. The fact is that Sandeep and I only got engaged in Chandigarh last week. Is there no difference between engagement and marriage?" she asks.

Not so long ago, Divya refrained talking about her boyfriend because she kept saying that she was having fun and hadn't yet decided that they were serious about each other. "But it recently started to happen. I began to realize that Sandeep would be my ideal life companion."

Divya frankly says that the engagement was the outcome of a bit of parental pressure from both sides. "They thought that it's high time we gave some sanctity to our relationship."

Divya and Sandeep have been dating for the past year and a half. "We will definitely get married and have kids as well. But the marriage is still about a year away. What's the hurry? Currently, I am getting some fantastic roles which require a lot of commitment and time," she adds. "Post marriage, I will continue to do good, selective work and we will settle in Mumbai."

"Now, many film directors are approaching me with tailor-made roles," says the actress, who is keenly looking forward to her forthcoming films, mainly, Prabhakar Shukla's 'Kahani Gudiya Ki' (based on a real life story).

'Kahani Gudiya Ki' is the story of a simple village girl whose happily married life with her second husband came to an end with the return of her first husband, who was believed to have died four years ago.

Lately, Divya has signed Ram Gopal Varma's 'Mr. Ya Miss.' "It's a great role," she almost gushes. 'Mr. Ya Miss' was earlier to be directed by J. Chakravarthy but now Varma has given him a boot from this project and put him on 'Darwaza Bandh Hai' starring Aftab Shivdasani.

Initially assigned with the job of only scripting and acting in 'Mr. Ya Miss', buzz is that Ramu's favourite Antara Mali has taken over the directorial reins but Ramu says that he is still undecided about it.

Divya's kitty also reveals a quadri-lingual 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Star' (Hindi, Malayalam, Tamil and Telugu), which explores the side of the eunuch community. It is the real life story of a girl, who was neither a girl nor a boy, but got married, and the marriage ended in tragedy. Plus she has bagged the Hriday Shetty directed comedy 'Hum Hain Na'.

"After the engagement, I am feeling the same as I was before it. Let's see whether marriage will bring any change or not. But please don't get me married when I haven't. Marriage is not a sin. I will proudly announce it when the D-day is fixed," she concludes with a laugh. Divya made her small screen debut a decade ago with 'Rangarang' on the national network.

Interview # 14

This Interview is from “www.indiafm.com”


* Interview: Sushmita Sen

“Main Hoon Na wasn't a turning point for me” - Sushmita
By IndiaFM News Bureau, May 04th, 2005 - 0930 hrs IST

She can beat all the actors in the industry hollow when it comes to holding a conversation. The lady speaks her mind and what a mind it is…looking stunning in an ordinary Jeans - Jacket ensemble Sushmita Sen sure knows how to keep the atmosphere charged. Speaking exclusively to IndiaFM for Main Aisa Hi Hoon, Sushmita is all geared up for an exciting year…here she tells you why!

Q. Tell us about your role in Main Aisa Hi Hoon?
A. In this film I have got an opportunity to play a fantastic character. First time in my career I am playing a lawyer's role who fights for the custody of Ajay Devgan's child.

Q. What excited you about Neeti Khanna - your character in the movie?
A. The most beautiful thing for me in this movie was that I play a mother and for the first time I am playing a kind of mother who neglects her child. So for me as Sushmita Sen and as Neeti, this was a very different experience. In the start it was a bit difficult for me to play this role as I didn't know how to be a bad mother but its my job and I guess over a period of time I have learnt to disconnect from who I am as a person and I've had a blast doing this film.

Q. How special has this film been for you?
A. It is one of my finest performances, these days I have gotten a little shameless these days and say so openly when I believe it. This film is very special for me and will always remain because to present on Indian screen a working woman who is not apologetic or ashamed of the way she lives. For me to play a character like this is to pioneer women into the 21st century, which I think is about time, we do that.

Q. Is it true that Neeti Khanna goes through a transition herself in the process of fighting the case?
A. Yes it is true. Infact there is a very beautiful 4-minute scene where this character Neeti Khanna the lawyer transforms and breaks down. So there are these beautiful moments in the film of people like you and me who put up this act of being very brave but actually are as fragile as the next person.

Q. What do you think of Ajay Devgan's performance?
A. He has given a superb performance. I'll tell you in all honesty that in Indian film industry, for a leading hero to play a character like this is very challenging. Half of the actors reject the role as soon as they hear the script while others who agree would play it as a hero. But Ajay has played the character in the film genuinely as a 7-year-old child. Secondly in a film like Main Aisa Hi Hoon you can't have songs because it breaks the consistency of the performance, he does have songs in it and he's pulled it off beautifully. Anybody in his shoes would have looked like he's doing music videos for songs and film he somehow has managed to combine the two of them.

Q. What do you think of Esha's performance in the movie?
A. Esha has done a beautiful job in this film; she has walked a very thin line. To perform the complicated role that she has done in such a young age is fabulous and she looks her hottest best in her introduction.

Q. Is there scope for songs in a movie like Main Aisa Hi Hoon?
A. Our industry is a musical industry so whether there is scope or no we have to have songs in a film. Maybe audiences like you and me or multiplex audiences can see a songless movie like Bhoot or Vastu Shastra, but in the B & C centers of our country even today a movie runs on one song. So it is a part of the commercial aspect of the Indian movie business. So there is always scope for songs in our movie whether one wants it or not is the director's protocol. Here Harry Baweja wanted music so GOD bless Himesh. He has done a fabulous job, the music helps the narrative of the film it doesn't disturb it.

Q. You played a cop in Samay, a doctor in Vastu Shastra, here you play a lawyer, fixation with professions?
A. I am a very professional actor (laughs) these days I play only professional characters. Then there is a movie coming up with Salman where I am playing a nurse. I haven't left a single profession, I am doing pretty ok. I am looking forward to each one of these films.

Q. There is Chingari coming up. Tell us about some other projects of yours?
A. Chingari is for the first time that I have portrayed a prostitute; I have spoken in Bihari language. Then there is Runway, which is inspired by a true-life story of a woman who lives in Bhuj who was given the bravery award by our president because of what she had done which his something so fascinating that we all should read about and see. They all will be back to back, and I am really kicked because I am going to play some very nice roles in this particular year.

Q. Do you think Main Hoon Na was the turning point in your career?
A. If you ask me every actor will keep having these turning points as each Friday goes by. So Main Hoon Na wasn't a turning point for me as an actor, for me turning point started in 1996 December when I signed Dastak, after that all the flops and the hits that I have seen have made me what I am today.

Interview # 15

This Interview is from “www.bollywoodheaven.com”


* Interview: KATRINA KAIF

“KATRINA KAIF: I AM TALLER NOW”
By Our Staff
An Encounter

Katrina Kaif is known more as Salman Khan's girlfriend than as an actress. She started with 'Boom' that didn't bring her much glory, but placed her in her next with Salman Khan in David Dhawan's forthcoming movie 'Maine Pyaar Kyon Kiya'. During this short span of her career, she has become taller, she says.

Excerpts of her recent chat:

Q. Why are you having a low profile these days?

A. This is not true. I am very busy in my work, as I have to study several scripts lying with me from different directors. Some of them are very interesting. However, I shall take a final decision after a deep consideration.

Q. What is the status of 'Maine Pyaar Kyon Kiya'?
A. Its shooting is almost over. I have enjoyed it. It was very trireme though.

Q. What's your role in the movie?
A. I would not like to tell you much about my role because it will lose its charm. However, I may say that this is slightly difficult one. I am sure that the viewers will like my role in the movie.

Q. Will this multistarrer not affect your status?
A. I know that several established actors like Salman and Sushmita Sen are starring in this movie. But my role is important enough. This role will make me taller in the industry.

Q. How did you enjoy working with Salman with whom your name is linked?
A. Salman is a very dear friend and I enjoyed working with him. Besides, he is also a good guide.

Q. Have you enacted some hot scenes with Salman in the movie?
A. Since it is David Dhawan's family entertainer, there is hardly any scope for hot scenes.

Q. Aren't you doing Ram Gopal Varma's 'Sarkar'?
A. Yes, I am playing girlfriend of Abhishek Bachchan in 'Sarkar'. I was hesitant in the beginning to work with Ramu who has his own style. But I felt very comfortable on the sets.

Q. Which is your next movie?
A. I will start shooting in July for Raj Kanwar's commercial movie starring Akshay Kumar.

Q. Did you feel any problem in Hindi language during the dubbing?
A. No. I didn't feel any difficulty, as there is scope for a repeat if the dubbing is not satisfactory.

Q. What type of an image you want to establish for yourself?
A. I don't think any artist thinks of setting up any image for oneself. The image depends upon the viewers.

Interview # 16

This Interview is from “www.filmfare.com”


* Interview: Preity Zinta

Preity Zinta: 'I'm here for the job I do, not for the person I'm dating...'
MADHUREETA MUKHERJEE
INDIATIMES MOVIES

Q. Preity reinvents her looks as much as her roles in every
film...
A. Yes, it becomes too monotonous otherwise, doesn’t it? I want
to do different stuff all the time, so if I’ve done an epic
film like ˜Veer Zaara”, it doesn’t mean that I can’t fit into
a comedy role. And after Yash Chopra’s classic film, it’s not
like I don’t know what to do next. When people saw ˜Veer
Zaara”, they were surprised with the way I looked - from the
cool, cute short skirt and denims image to the Muslim beauty
wearing salwar kameez and kajal - it was quite contrasting. I
think I made the perfect Zaara.

Q. Most successful actresses (Aishwarya, Kareena, Rani) are experimenting with de-glam roles, and it’s working brilliantly for them...
A. Well, I started my career with de-glam roles - I did ˜Dil Se”
with Shah Rukh Khan without make-up. Then I did one of my
biggest hits, ˜Dil Chahta Hai”, sans make-up. I guess when you
say ˜de-glam” you mean, a de-glam look.

Q. People believe Preity has too many opinions and strong ones, too...
A. I think it’s each to her own. It’s not that I create an
opinion about everything, and even if I have an opinion on
something, I don’t speak to make a noise about it. I speak the
truth. As a person, I’m more honest and straightforward;
somewhere down the line if it bothers someone, I can
apologise, but that’s the way it is. After some time, I get a
headache being fake and diplomatic!

Q. So in the fake world of filmdom, Preity Zinta is the real thing...
A. Actors are not fake; they’re only trying to protect
themselves. I don’t like to play a role off-screen and
on-screen - I get paid only for acting on-screen. I am the way
I am. I was like this when I was two years old; I’ll be like
this when I am 60. Over the years, I’ve learnt to be more
sensitive to people, and in my honesty and frankness I would
never want to hurt anybody. At the same time, I’m not the kind
who will pose a sweet face for people to see and then claw
them behind their backs. That’s ridiculous. Then when other
people start being fake with you, one day you just get tired
of the charade.

Q. On a recent chat show, a few actresses made cracks at you...
A. They can take two more cracks, I have no problems. I have not
seen that particular episode of the show, so I don’t exactly
know what is was about. If they have to say something, they
can say it to my face. I guess you are talking about the
Rani, Kareena chat show - all I can say is that Rani is very
friendly with me when I see her; in fact, she’s very sweet to
me, so tell me - how do I react to that and what can I say to
it now?

Q. You don’t deny that you’re dating Ness Wadia, but you don’t talk about it either...
A. I don’t hide anything I do. If I say I’m not seeing somebody,
It’s the truth; if I’m seeing somebody, I won’t scream from
the rooftops about it. Neither will I go to town talking about
it. When I’m seeing someone, I’m with that person. So yes, I’m
not denying it, but that’s all that there is to talk about.

Q. So you’re glad that this has rubbished rumours of affairs with your co-stars...
A. I am sick of the media linking me to every actor. Why should
I be glad? Tomorrow they might still link me with every actor
I’m working with! People have this notion that every actor in
the industry is promiscuous and has no morals. If they say
that I’m one of the few actors who has been honest, then they
should give me that respect. I’m here for the job I do, not
for the person I’m dating!

Interview # 17

This Interview is from “www.filmfare.com”


* Interview: Amol Palekar

Amol Palekar: 'I am not making 'Paheli' with Shah Rukh because he is saleable'
URVASHI ASHAR
INDIATIMES MOVIES

After ˜Anaahat”, director Amol Palekar returns as the captain
of the ship with ˜Paheli”, a film starring Amitabh Bachchan,
Shah Rukh Khan and Rani Mukherjee. We wonder what caused the
doyen of Indian realistic cinema to shift from realism to
fantasy, from ˜art” to ˜commercialism”, from performers like
Nana Patekar and Deepti Naval to mainstream celebs like
Amitabh and Shah Rukh. In a conversation with Urvashi Ashar,
Palekar justifies all...

Q. ˜Paheli” was first titled ˜Ghost Ka Dost”. Why the drastic change in name?
A. The title ˜Ghost Ka Dost” was the fertile imagination and
creation of the press. For me, it was always ˜Paheli”

Q. The film seems to be very different from the ˜typical Amol Palekar films” we’ve seen so far...
A. I thought it looked completely different from the usual ˜Shah
Rukh Khan films” we’ve seen so far. I don’t think people were
expecting to see Shah Rukh Khan with a moustache, playing an
authentically ethnic persona. In fact, I though the reaction
would be about his appearance and not about my making a
different film. Because I am making a movie that I want to
make and in a manner in which I’ve always made them. I have
always made movies in one schedule. ˜Paheli” is no different.
I have worked with great actors like Nana Patekar in ˜Thodasa
Rumaani Ho Jaye” and with the romantic pair of Deepti Naval
and Amol Palekar in ˜Ankahi”. So I have worked with stars
before and it’s not like I am working with them for the first
time. Many also have the misconception that I make songless
films. ˜Ankahi” had lovely music by Jaidevji; ˜Thodasa Rumaani
Ho Jaye” was an out-and-out musical. Another film, ˜Daayra”,
had music rendered by Anand Milind, and now it’s ˜Paheli” with
MM Kreem. So I don’t think I’ve done anything drastic with
˜Paheli”.

Q. Does ˜Paheli” mean that Amol Palekar has completely broken
away from realistic cinema and moved to fantasy land?
I'm not sure if you know the story of ˜Paheli”. Because
again, the press is going to town concocting different tales.
But I certainly won’t talk about the story, because then I’d
have written a saga rather than made a film. All that I can
say is that ˜Paheli” is more like a folk tale, something like
what our naanis told us when we were younger. Unfortunately,
we’ve lost that tradition now. Even when you say ˜Once upon a
time”, you tend to go back to a different time frame with a
different mindset. But it’s not entirely a ˜fantasy land”
story, because you are constantly in touch with reality -
though in a different way. So, one can’t say that ˜Paheli”
lacks realism.

Q. You are the doyen of Indian realistic cinema. What tempted you to bite the bait of Bollywood glitterati?
A. I make a particular film because I want to make it. And I try
and make the movie with that actor or actress whom I feel will
do maximum justice to the character. The usual approach of
Bollywood is, unfortunately, the other way around. They decide
whom they are going to make a film with and then start working
on the story. I am not making ˜Paheli” with Shah Rukh because
he is saleable. I cast him because he suited the character
perfectly and I couldn’t think of anyone else who would have
done a better job. The fact that Shah Rukh Khan also happens
to be a superstar is a different story. I don’t have any
quarrel with his superstar status and nor does Shah Rukh have
any quarrel about working with a sensible director like me.

Q. What was it like working with the three most popular actors today Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan and Rani Mukherjee?
A. Why is everybody talking about only three ˜stars”? I have a
galaxy of ˜stars” in my film and it was absolutely wonderful
and fascinating to work with each one of them. Shah Rukh is a
wonderful actor, and he has satisfied me no end with his
performance. The same can be said about Rani, who has given a
very beautiful, sensitive performance. With her outstanding
act in ˜Black”, she has already proven her credentials beyond
doubt and this is another very sensitive performance from her.
My other ˜stars” include Juhi Chawla, Suniel Shetty, Rajpal
Yadav, Anupam Kher, Nina Kulkarni, Dilip Prabhawalkar and
above all, of course, Amitabh Bachchan. Working with each one
of them was pleasurable. Their brilliant performances have
made my film very rich.

Q. With Shah Rukh being not only the actor, but also the producer, was there too much interference from him?
A. Shah Rukh is a wonderful producer. He has a hundred
suggestions to offer, most of which are really good He is also
a lovely human being and professional enough to accept the
rejection of his suggestions and ideas. I welcome suggestions
from everyone, for a good idea can add so much to a film. And
as a leader of my team, it’s part of my job to do that. I
would like to believe that I excite my actors and technicians
to such an extent that they are ready to give to the film a
little more than what they usually give.

Q. What is so unique about ˜Paheli” that Shah Rukh agreed to not only to act in it, but also produce it?
A. After Sandhya - who has written the script and is also my
associate director, besides being my wife “ and I narrated the
subject to Shah Rukh, the slight pause that he took to light a
cigarette was followed by only one question: ˜Sir, can I
produce this film?”. So it was an instantaneous response. It
was love at first sight. He keeps referring to this script as
one of the finest he has gone through in a long time. That was
the starting point of our union.

Q. You run a production company yourself. Why then did you settle for someone else to produce ˜Paheli”?
A. I am an actor by accident, producer by compulsion and
director by choice!

News # 101

These News are from “www.b4utv.com”


* Vivek: In knots

Actor Vivek Oberoi is upset with a television channel for distorting facts in the interview that he did for them. The journalist reportedly asked him provocative question on Aishwarya Rai asking him whether he would be eventually tying the knot with her. The “tying the knot” quote has reportedly stressed and upset the Rai family. Vivek immediately issued a clarification that he and Aishwarya Rai had no marriage plans in the near future. “The interview is blown out of proportion,” he said. As a precaution, Vivek will not entertain any question on Aishwarya Rai in the future interviews. Ash on her part has chosen to keep silent on the issue. She does like to discuss her private life in public.


* Rajpal Yadav: Get shorty!

Ever since he shot for the Coke ad with Aishwarya Rai, Rajpal Yadav is beaming ear to ear. The Best Villain Award winner is looking forward to shoot for Main, Meri Patni Aur Woh. “The film is about this short guy who has a beautiful wife. He has an inferiority complex because of this,” he said. Now, now was that real resembling reel? “No! Not at all! I love Radha. She is the best thing to have happened to me,” he says. But the one woman who Yadav is still reeling over is Aishwarya Rai. “When we shot for the Coke ad, after every shot, she kept saying, ‘You are mind-blowing,’ It boosted my morale,” he says. Yadav will be seen in James, Garam Masala, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and Anees Bazmee’s Benaam.


* Daredevil Hrithik

If there is one actor martial arts action director Tony Ching Siu-Tong from Hong Kong is impressed by in Bollywood, it is Hrithik Roshan. “Hrithik has a lot of questions to ask. His curiosity only encourages me to do better,” says Tong. Tong says that Hrithik needs only one demonstration. He then manages to perform the most dangerous stunt with utmost élan. For a particular stunt shot in Manali, the actor had to leap from a height of 30 feet with actress Priyanka Chopra in his arms. While Priyanka took the necessary precautions by padding herself, Hrihtik did not use any safety guards. Director Rakesh Roshan was impressed with Ching’s stunts when he witnessed a feat on the sets of Sunny Deol starrer The Hero. “But I was not aware of Rakesh Roshan’s work profile. I wanted to see his work and he promptly handed me the DVD of Koi Mil Gaya. I instantly said yes after watching the film,” he said. Rakesh Roshan has completed a major schedule in Manali. The next schedule in Mumbai’s Kaali Maidan!


* SRK – Aziz Mirza: Going strong
Rumors that Shahrukh Khan and Aziz Mirza had split after Chalte Chalte have been put to rest as SRK has agreed to do a commercial with the talented director. Mirza also clarified that he has not retired. “It is just that I wanted to be with myself. It took me time to come to terms with my wife’s death,” he said. Mirza is to direct three films for Planman Productions. Aziz Mirza had last directed Chalte Chalte. The film proved to be a hit at the box-office. Mirza is one of the three partners in Shahrukh Khan’s Dreamz Unlimited.

News # 102

These News are from “www.bollyvista.com”


* When Karan Johar requested Aruna Irani
By Vickey Lalwani ©2005 Bollyvista.com

Guess how Karan Johar's forthcoming film 'Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna' (Bachchan, SRK, Rani Mukerji) got its title! Much to Karan's dismay, he discovered that the title belonged to Aruna Irani (remember we told you about it?). She had in fact finalized a television serial by that name. With trembling hands, he dialed her number to submit his request. She easily agreed, just wanting a hug and kiss in return!


* Karan Johar off on Friday night!
By Our Correspondent ©2005 Bollyvista.com

Karan Johar is flying off to Australia this Friday night to shoot for his next directorial venture, 'Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna' (his last one being 'Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham'). "I'm directing myself after a long time," he told us. "There's much anxiety and excitement. Let's hope all goes well." We're sure!


* Saif is open to remarriage!
By Our Correspondent ©2005 Bollyvista.com

When asked whether Saif Ali Khan would marry his Italian girlfriend Rosa, he said, "I am open to marrying but haven't given it a thought so soon!" Saif is awaiting the release of 'Parineeta' this June 10th and 'Being Cyrus', which seems to have been inordinately delayed.

News # 103

These News are from “www.indiatarget.com”


* Aishwarya, badly abused!
by Debasis Jana

Aishwarya Rai left for London yesterday to shoot Jagmohan Mundhra's forthcoming movie 'Provoked'. Besides Aishwarya, 'Provoked' features Miranda Richardson, Naveen Andrews, Jimmy Mistry and Nandita Das.
Jagmohan Mundhra, like his previous two films 'Kamla' and 'Bawandar', in 'Provoked' also, he will depict traumatised woman in the leads. It will be a film, based on a true story of a Punjabi woman named Kiranjit Ahluewalia, who left India to marry a London-based guy only to be badly abused in the marriage. And Ash will play Kiranjit Ahluewalia.


* Divya Dutta and Cleo Isaac got engaged on same day!
by Debasis Jana

Saturday, 30th April, Bollywood diva Divya Dutta, married to a Navy man at a quiet ceremony in Chandigarh. Divya, whom you have seen in 'Veer Zaara' and who was nominated for best supporting actress in different awards, however got engaged keeping media in dark.
And here is another marriage report, left us stunned. Cleo Isaacs, whom you have seen in 'Woh' opposite Priyanshu Chatterjee, got engaged on same day of Divya Dutta. Cleo married to Hemal Thakkar, who, we hear, is a builder.

News # 104

This News is from “www.bollywoodheaven.com”


* AJAY, AKSHAY ACT TOGETHER IN 'SAAMNA' DESPITE RIVALRY
By Eye TV India Bureau
In the News

Both Bollywood actors--Ajay Devgan and Akshay Kumar -- are contemporaries, but are not on good terms with each other. This is despite that they have been working together in many films for quite some time. Industry circles say that Ajay Devgan is in the top rung while Akshay Kumar is a successful actor. So, they are competing with each other. The war of nerves began in 'Khakee'. Both had almost equal roles in the movie, but Akshay's role attracted a better response. Then both acted in 'Insaan'. Again, Akshay became a front-runner here too.

This led Ajay Devgan to allege that Akshay had prevailed on the director to cut Devgan's role in this movie. Akshay has, however, denied it, and said that the director should be questioned about it. Despite this bitter rivalry, Raj Kumar Santoshi is fielding both in his next 'Saamna'. Though both of then hold equal position in the industry, Akshay has earned a little more glory by his performance in 'Mujhse Shaadi Karogi'. In fact, Akshay played a better role than Salman's in this movie. Hence, Akshay is stronger than both Salman and Devgan. The latter are worried about it. Film critics wonder how Santoshi will be able to get the best performances out of both of them despite their bitter relations.

News # 105

This News is from “www.bollywoodheaven.com”


* MAHIMA DESPERATE TO ACT FUNNY GIRL
By Our Staff
In the News

Showman Subhash Ghai's discovery Mahima Chaudhary who shot to fame in her debut 'Pardes' opposite Shah Rukh Khan, failed to maintain that glory in her later filmi career. She doesn't harbor any regret though. She knows that it's very difficult, if not an impossible task. She is happy even with her guest appearances in films as these provide her opportunities to mark her presence in the industry and among viewers. For instance, her brief roles in 'Baghbaan' and 'Dhadkan' kept her alive among her fans. Mahima is not out and claims to be doing a lot at present.

She was recently seen in 'Kuchh Meetha Ho Jaaye'. Besides, she is acting in 'The Film'. This is based on the story of some youngsters trying to make a film, but then failing after their investor suddenly expires. Her another is 'Kudiyon Ka Hai Zamana', a very popular song picturized on Salman Khan in 'Hum Aapke Hain Kaun'. Mahima says she has had almost all types of roles in films except that of a funny girl. She is desperate to do that role, and wishes the directors and the producers to place her in a comic role with her fun loving senior Juhi Chawla. Will the directors and the producers fulfill her wish?

News # 106

These News are from “www.filmfare.com”


* SRK, Juhi, Aziz Mirza: Close clique forever!
A lot has been written, misfired and misinterpreted regarding
Bollywood's original 'Dreamz' gang of SRK, Juhi Chawla and
Aziz Mirza, and the production company floated by them. It was
being said (in hushed whispers, nevertheless) that the trio
had split up and gone their separate ways. And though they
have rubbished the news on several occasions, people continued
believing otherwise. Finally, the 'split' story has been put
to rest. And the events of last week are testimony to that.
Close on the heels of Juhi Chawla's dad passing away recently,
there was yet another tragedy in the Chawla khandaan - Juhi's
aunt passed away in Delhi, and the great buddy that SRK is, he
cancelled all appointments in Mumbai and flew to the capital
along with Aziz Mirza to be there by her side. When it comes
to friendships, even work can take a backseat for the Khan
with a King-size heart. Of course, it just goes to show that
the trio is still as close a clique as they used to be. And
that, some friendships are meant to stay!


* Getting funny with Sunny!
Okay, it's not the first time that we'll be seeing Sunny
playing a bearded, turbaned Punjju, he's done that before in
'Border' and 'Gadar'. But they were characterisations of a
fierce and fiery Sunny screaming from rooftops - that he does
so well. This time, strangely, the Sardarji is playing a
strong character with a comic side to him. So instead going
red with emotion, you'll be turning red with laughter as you
watch Deol's 'Jo Bole So Nihaal'. And if you thought your
head-hot Deol was all beating up baddies and playing the good
Samaritan, it's time to get funny with Sunny!


* Neha's not chicken!
While the whole world was stuck in bed with jaundice (at least
that's what it seemed like), Neha Dhupia, in typical style,
decided to do something different. She got herself a nice case
of chicken pox. And while the newspapers reported long lists
of socialites and celebs that were yellow though not mellow,
our tough lady just couldn't wait to get back to the sets and
complete her shooting schedules. Of course, the illness being
what it was, it had to run its course before she could
continue her affair with the camera. But recover she did, and
now she's all set with her next release, 'Kya Kool Hai Hum'.
We don't know about cool, but this sizzling hot lady is
certainly not chicken!


* John is the male Natassja!
With 'Kaal' being appreciated by the audiences, Karan Johar
and protégé Soham are certainly preening. But one man who is
getting all the bouquets and the best critiques is John
Abraham. The actor is actually being called the male
counterpart to the incomparable Natassja Kinski -- the actress
who made male jaws drop with her classic poster where she has
a python wrapped around her naked and very shapely body. John,
too, has a scene in 'Kaal' where he has a python wound around
himself, and that's driving the fairer sex nuts - if you'll
excuse the phrase! Of course, although the hunky frame was for
real, we're still not sure whether the great snake was a live
one like in Kinski's case. John, of course, was very
embarrassed when we mentioned the comparison and said,
"Natassja had more curves than me!" While the men have had
something to drool over for years, we guess it's the ladies'
turn now! Hersssssss.oops.we mean hisssss!


* Mallika's desire - Men of all nations!
Yes, folks, the luckiest of us all has unfulfilled desires,
too. And Mallika Sherawat's most urgent craving is, as
expected, quite shocking. The lady, who has been linked to
every Tom, Dick and Harry (that's just one more name, mind
you), now claims that she would love to - hold your breath -
"have a boyfriend of every nationality". We all know about the
Chinese connection (strictly professional, of course) already.
Now we wonder if the desire to add on to her love-resume was
the reason the sexy siren zoomed off to Italy recently…! Any
secret liaisons yet, Mallika? In this case at least, the world
is your stage!


* Naseer takes the chair at last!
After Amol Palekar, it's actor par excellence Naseeruddin
Shah's turn to take his seat in the director's chair. Of
course, news of Naseer's directorial ventures was doing the
rounds long before we'd heard of Palekar's 'Paheli', but now
we hear that the project is finally on the roll. When the
plans of directing a film had been bandied about a year ago,
Naseer had told us, "What I've wanted to do for some time is
handle actors. I've been teaching at the drama school for over
a decade, and I've handled actors for my stage productions.
The more I do it, the more I realise how much I enjoy it - and
I'm not bad at it at all! And it is a desire to get out of
actors the kind of performance that I myself would like to
deliver. As well as make a kind of film I would like to see."
And trust Naseer to have a fair mix of actors from both
worlds! From what we hear, Ayesha Takia, Konkona Sen, Boman
Irani and Irrfan Khan form the main cast of this yet-untitled
venture. Well, what we're wondering is…will this one be arty,
commercial or that in-between land where art meets commercial?
We'll leave that for the best man, Naseer himself, to answer!

thanks

Info # 44

These Info are from “www.bollyvista.com”


* What's Boman Irani up to these days?
By Our Correspondent ©2005 Bollyvista.com

These days, Boman Irani has been visiting his Sikh and Surd friends regularly to learn about and understand their mannerisms, quirks and nuances. Of course, he's enjoying every bit of it. Why is he doing this, you may ask? It's for his role in the 'Munnabhai' sequel.


* Emraan walks out of 'Chocolate'
By Vickey Lalwani ©2005 Bollyvista.com

Emraan Hashmi, who was last seen in 'Zeher', has reportedly walked out of 'Vivek Agnihotri's 'Chocolate', and that after merely two days of shooting. Apparently, money problems have been affecting the producers of the film, due to which Emraan was not paid his dues. However, the producers deny the issue, saying that all the dues were paid to Hashmi in time. Our sleuths are on the lookout for the truth. Wait and watch ...


* Is Salman doing Nikhil Advani's film?
By Our Correspondent ©2005 Bollyvista.com

Nikhil Advani is gradually becoming history. His project with Boney Kapoor has yet to take off and we're sure that Karan Johar is having the last laugh. Advani was to remake 'Rebecca' but the script never worked out satisfactorily. Also, another director is said to have flicked the remake idea.<BR.
Nikhil is now said to be remaking Boney's old flick, 'Hum Paanch', but the latest to reach our ears is that Salman Khan may not be a part of it anymore. Let's wait and watch!


* Does Rani have marriage plans?
By Our Correspondent ©2005 Bollyvista.com

Ask Rani Mukerji about marriage and she shoots back, "Where's the time? And where's the man? I'm not marrying at least for another five years. And when I do, it'll be with the man I love. Also, I don't think I'll work after marriage!"

Incidentally, Rani is celebrating her hat trick - three hits: 'Hum Tum', 'Veer-Zaara' (not her film technically) and 'Black'. We won't account for her flop 'Yuva', which released a week before 'Hum Tum'.

Info # 45

This Info is from “www.santabanta.com”


* 'Kaal' didn't hurt anyone!

The Uttaranchal government's Chief Wildlife Conservator Srikant Chandola today ruled out the possibility of the use of the state's wild animals in the controversial Karan Johar film 'Kaal'.

The state government is yet to receive a notice from the Supreme court on the use of wild animals in the film, Mr Chandola told.

It is not possible to use wild animals without any training in films and there is no system of training them in the state, he said adding that the state government has already prepared its reply in anticipation of a notice from the Apex court.

The shooting of 'Kaal' was permitted in accordance with the Indian Wildlife Act and was within the legal power entrusted to the state government and the Centre has no role to play in this, he added.

He said that with the object of encouraging the shooting of films in the vast forests of Uttaranchal the state governemnt had also come out with a notification in the year 2002 as a result of which the forest department was earning around Rs 2 crores annually.

He said that 'Kaal' was shot at the Jim Corbett National park and the administration followed the rules strictly.

Mr Chandola added that the state government on its part has also videographed the entire shooting at Corbett park.

Info # 46

This Info is from “www.santabanta.com”


* Will SRK forgive Pritish Nandy

A question mark hangs on the participation of superstar Shah Rukh Khan in this years Sansui awards.

A dispute between Pritish Nandy's daughter Rongita Nandy and Shah Rukh Khan's wife Gauri Khan and best friend Karan Johar at a special screening of "Shabd" in February this year, has precipitated what looks like a war of nerves between the two camps.

At the Pritish Nandy Communication's (PNC)"Shabd" screening Rongita had apparently asked Gauri and Karan to leave since the show wasn't meant for people from inside Bollywood.

Shah Rukh Khan understandably took umbrage over the incident.

The fall-out of the incident has been grave: apparently Shah Rukh Khan and all his friends (which means practically 75 percent of the film industry) have decided to boycott the Sansui awards organized by PNC.

What's the truth behind this boycott theory, and where do this year's awards, already postponed twice, stand?

A report suggests that Shah Rukh and Pritish Nandy have met and patched up their differences and that the mega-star, winning every award this year for his performances in "Veer-Zara", "Main Hoon Na" and "Swades", has tacitly agreed to participate in the Sansui awards.

But a close friend of Shah Rukh completely rubbishes this report.

"There has been no patch up, there won't be either. Shah Rukh isn't one to take any insult, intentional or non-intentional, to his loved ones lying down. And when it comes to his wife Gauri he's absolutely paranoid.

"Shah Rukh was livid after what happened at the 'Shabd' screening. There's no way he will overlook the incident."

Regarding the matter Pritish Nandy is his usual calm and blunt self.

"As far as we at PNC are concerned the matter is over and done with. Yes, there was an incident involving Gauri Khan and Karan Johar at the 'Shabd' screening. We've apologized to them although there was absolutely no intention to hurt or offend.

"It's a matter of policy for us to not show our films to people within the film industry before release. We've learnt this the hard way. Some years ago we had made a film called 'Sur'. Someone from the industry saw the film and badmouthed it all over the place. As a result distributors walked out at the eleventh hour causing great inconvenience for the film.

"Ever since then we've decided to never to show our films to industry folks. Hence the incident during 'Shabd'."

So has there been an attempt to iron out differences for the sake of the Sansui awards?

"Shah Rukh and I met over lunch. But I'm not very sure if that would be a considered a reconciliatory rendezvous. As far as we at PNC are concerned we're putting up the Sansui show at London at the end of May - probably 26 May - and we'd love to have Shah Rukh at the show. The ball is entirely in his court."

In the meanwhile, PNC whose latest release is the critically acclaimed "Hazaar Khawishein Aisi" is getting ready to release its next film, an out-and-out comedy "Ek Khiladi Ek Hasina" featuring Fardeen Khan and Koena Mitra.

Why item girl Koena? Isn't she the poor man's Bipasha Basu. "I think Bipasha's had her innings. Audiences look for a certain virginal quality in their heroines. Bipasha is over-exposed, in every way.

"I think Koena has the potential to be the next hot thing."

With "Ek Khiladi Ek Haseena" PNC gives another new director a chance to have his say. "We introduced Sujoy Ghosh with 'Jhankar Beats'. Our 'Popcorn Khao Mast Ho Jao' was directed by another debutant Kabir Sadanand.

"'Ek Khiladi ...'is directed by screen writer turned director Suparn Varma. It's a total masala film, wacky and witty....We're also launching a new film called 'Aayega' with Sunny Deol in the lead. It's again something totally unexpected from us. It'll be directed by Rohit Shetty (who directed 'Zameen')."

Info # 47

This Info is from “www.indiafm.com”


* 'Shaadi No. 1' shifted ahead
By Taran Adarsh, May 05th 2005 - 0930 hrs IST

Vashu Bhagnani, the prolific film-maker, has decided to postpone his David Dhawan-directed SHAADI NO. 1 to November 3. Reason? Vashu wants to promote the film to the optimum. “Although we would wrap up the entire shooting by July, I've decided to wait for a few months more. I want to plan its release carefully,” Vashu informs me.

With SILSIILAY scheduled for June 3 release and SHAADI NO. 1 on November 3, Vashu has got a '3' fixation these days [it was '1' earlier -- COOLIE NO. 1, HERO NO. 1, BIWI NO. 1, SHAADI NO. 1]. “Yes, you can say that,” he laughs, “If I had my way, I'd announce and release all my films on 3rd.”

Wait, there's more on Vashu! The film-maker, who has dabbled in tea business, is now expanding his horizons. Vashu has also got into the construction business and has already completed the construction a high-rise apartment in Bandra. No wonder, he's called Entrepreneur No. 1 these days.

Interview # 18

This Interview is from “www.santabanta.com”


* Interview: Ajay Devgan

“I am too lazy: Ajay Devgan”

He's hard to pin down. But with two back-to-back high profile releases - "Kaal" and "Main Aisa Hi Hoon" - in his hands, Ajay Devgan has no choice other than to emerge from his shell.

"Kaal was a very interesting concept," he says in his trademark drawl. But it is nothing like "Bhoot".

"We shot in the jungles. (Director) Soham (Shah) has done a very good job. He was clear as to what he wanted from his actors. It's hard to believe this is his first film," Devgan told IANS in an interview.

The thriller - produced by Shah Rukh Khan and Karan Johar - released last Friday, saw the actor donning the rough look of a jungle-man. The film also starred Vivek Oberoi and John Abraham.

"It was fun! Shooting with Vivek (Oberoi) and John (Abraham) was a picnic. Vivek and I had worked together in "Yuva". But with John, it was a new experience, and certainly a pleasant one," he smiled.

Recent career setbacks, like "Blackmail" and "Zameer", don't seem to have deterred him. "It was only a phase. It has passed. It isn't really a setback since they were old commitments. Some of the films were done for the sake of friendship. Even during the shooting I used to say, 'This isn't going to work'. I was prepared. I'm relieved they're done."

However, "the sad part is when a good film like 'Yuva' don't do well. But what can you do? You pick up the threads and move on. It's all a part of the game. But given a choice, I'll still certainly do a film like Rituparno Ghosh's 'Raincoat' again, regardless of its box office performance," he insists.

Ajay admits his 2002-03 phase - during which he did films like "The Legend Of Bhagat Singh" and "Gangaajal" - was exceptionally fruitful. The chapter is revisited, he feels, with both "Kaal" and "Main Aisa Hi Hoon" depicting him in varied roles.

"Both are very special releases. I've never done such roles before and they're bound to get me noticed. Besides, these two films have turned out exactly the way they were meant to.

In "Main Aisa Hi Hoon", to be released Friday, Ajay plays a mentally-challenged man, fighting for the custody of his son. "The idea is picked from 'I Am Sam', but if you see the two films you'll see how different they are.

"In about 90 minutes of playing time, 'I Am Sam' allowed Sean Penn just 4-5 expressions. Here, we've songs, comedy - Indian cinema requires so much more. Even the language makes a lot of difference," he explains.

He admits, though, that he did watch Sean Penn's award-winning performance. "I analysed his performance but I've not copied him.

"I really didn't want to see him. But I did. It was impossible to follow him because the screenplay in 'Main Aisa Hi Hoon' is so much more layered. Sean Penn is brilliant. But in Hindi, the dialogues sound much more childlike. I've tried not to be excessively childish. But I couldn't help it."

Ajay loves the challenge of doing varied roles. "I don't mind being a different kind of a hero. I've always attempted unconventional heroism. I think audiences are ready for a change."

That kind of explains the assortment in his kitty at present.

There's Prakash Jha's "Apharan", Raj Santoshi's "Samna", John Matthew's film with Shahid Kapoor which is half-complete and a new Raj Santoshi project.

"I'm just finishing Prakash Jha's 'Apharan' and it has turned out to be even more hard hitting than his 'Gangaajal'. I'm very, very happy. Prakashji is in his element.

"Raj Santoshi's 'Samna' with Aishwarya and Akshay is a very gripping script. Raj Santoshi and I are working on another project which will hopefully be as interesting as 'Lajja', 'Bhagat Singh' and 'Khakee'," he reiterates.

Any film with wife Kajol? He shakes his head. "Nothing. But we're planning to revive our home productions soon. There're so many things I want to do, like become more media savvy. I am too lazy. But I'm making an effort."

Interview # 19

This Interview is from “www.santabanta.com”


* Interview: Karan Johar

“She told me to hug and kiss her: Karan Johar”

After co-producing Kaal, a movie very unlike him, Karan Johar is back to the theme he does best: relationships.

"I've got Veer-Zaara and Bunty-Babli in my new film," chuckles Karan Johar, referring to the cast of his directorial venture Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna.

"It's got Shah Rukh Khan, Preity Zinta, Abhishek Bachchan, Rani Mukerji and Amitabh Bachchan. Believe me, that (Big B's) was the only piece of casting in the film that's irreplaceable. If I didn't get Mr Bachchan for the role that I have in mind, I wouldn't have been able to make this film. It's a role that rocks!" says Johar.

"As for Abhishek, I think his presence on the posters would add curiosity value to the project. This is the first time he's working with me. I'm really happy to have him in my film."

The enthusiasm level for his new film has been rising over the months, as Karan has been struggling to put together the script. The director says Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna is his most mature and in-depth take on human relationships.

"It hasn't been easy," he says. "In terms of characters, this is untrodden territory for me. But the important thing this time is not the stars that I've signed. It does not matter if Shah Rukh has played Veer or Rani is Babli. Once I wrote the script, they became the characters that were playing in my mind. Shah Rukh Khan in Swades and Mr Bachchan in Black were Mohan Bhargav and Debraj Sahay. The same will hopefully happen to them in my film.

"Kabhi Alvida is one film that is not about getting the stars together. I admit K3G was guilty of that. But in my new film, the stars will cease to be stars. The characters will take over completely. There're no major confrontation scenes, no drama, no dips and highs…"

But Karan shoots down rumours that Kabhi Alvida is going to be a departure from the 'Karan Johar style.'

"Hello? I've tried to make every film different from the rest. If they still carry my stamp, what can I do? And why should I try to get away from it?" he asks.

"Not that I'm comparing myself to him, but Guru Dutt's films bore his stamp even when they were as dissimilar as Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam and Pyasa. And my favourite director Sanjay Leela Bhansali makes different films each time. Yet they bear his stamp. So I won't say I'm trying to get away from my style in Kabhi Alvida. So yes, in terms of look, it will be as glossy and glamourous as my earlier works.

"I hate it when I'm asked if my films are made for NRI (non-resident Indian) audiences. I make films for Indians everywhere from Bihar to Birmingham. Kabhi Alvida will be no exception. But it will be much more of an intimate study of human relationships than any of my films," he says.

Ask Karan how he chose the film's title and he answers, "My film had to be called Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna. It goes with the theme of human relationships set within a contemporary milieu. But to my dismay, I discovered that the title belonged to Aroona Iraniji. She had finalised a television serial by that title. "

"With trembling hands, I dialled her number to submit my request. She was very categorical. 'Beta, everything costs. So what are you willing to give me as compensation?' I told her she could have whatever she wanted, if the title is mine. She said, 'You can have it on one condition. You have to give me a hug and a kiss when we meet.' I was completely bowled over by her goodness. I guess I'm reaping the benefits of the goodwill that my father (the late Yash Johar) sowed."

Karan had planned to shoot in Australia but the location has changed. The film will start shooting in September, and Karan hopes to wrap up by the yearend.

Interview # 20

This Interview is from “www.santabanta.com”


* Interview: Soham Shah

“To my surprise Karan liked Kaal: Soham”

Director Soham Shah says he used Ram Gopal Varma's "Bhoot" and Manoj Shyamalan's "Sixth Sense" as "reference points" for "Kaal".

"I definitely used Ramuji's 'Bhoot' and Manoj Shyamalan's 'Sixth Sense' as reference points. Then I worked my way outwards towards something never done."

Enthused by the audience response to "Kaal", the young director is hopeful the film will do well.

"The initial response is huge, almost unheard of. People have not approached it as a routine horror film. Perhaps the fact that Karan Johar has produced it has made all the difference."

"I'm a huge movie buff. Since childhood I've been watching films first-day-first-show. I was sure that the day I make a film it would be something like 'Kaal' where not a shot is predictable. I'm also very fond of wildlife, and wanted to make a statement on conservation. I've been travelling to wildlife sanctuaries all over India," Soham told in an interview.

"That's how the idea for 'Kaal' was born."

Soham admits he earlier intended to make another film.

"Far less original... Okay, I admit it was inspired by 'Final Destination'. When Vivek Oberoi heard my script, he told me someone else was making a film on the same subject.

"I didn't want my first film to look like someone else's film. If nothing else I wanted it to be original. Even Karan advised me against remaking another film. So I went back to scripting."

He says he didn't think about the box office prospects.

"I just wanted to make a film that I believed in and I was comfortable making. Whether I arrived commercially or not was secondary.

"I had promised Karan Johar that the day I write a script he'd be the first to read it. During the making of 'Bhoot' where I was assistant, I gave Karan the script. I didn't think it was his kind of story. To my surprise he liked it.

"At that point of time he was looking at various people to make films for his production house. I was damned lucky that he liked my script."

Why not a film for his guru Ram Gopal Varma? "My first script was promised to Karan. He has always been supportive."

Soham isn't making another film straightaway.

"But whenever I do, it will be a thriller again for sure. That's what I'm comfortable with. Maybe in the future I can make a film like 'Kal Ho Na Ho' or 'Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham'."

He says he's comfortable writing and visualizing his own script. "There're so many brilliant directors who make films from other people's script. But right now I see myself directing what I write."

He doesn't mind directing a large cast again.

"I'm very young. But that didn't stop all my actors from Ajay Devgan to Esha Deol from taking directions from me. We made sure they were comfortable during the grueling shooting at the Jim Corbett park. They were absolutely adorable.

"I'd say they were happy with their characters. When I narrated the script to them they knew exactly what they had to do. So everything was extremely peaceful on location."

Soham is full of praise for his producer: "Karan Johar's name certainly helped. The credit for getting audiences into theatres goes to Karan Johar's reputation. To him also goes the credit for giving a new director such a huge break. If Karan hadn't put in the money, 'Kaal' couldn't have been made.

"He left the film entirely to me. But the two songs at the beginning and end are totally his brainchild. I left them entirely to him and Farah Khan."

There were no situations for songs in "Kaal". "Maybe one day I'll make a musical, not now."

Unlike Nikhil Advani who moved away after "Kal Ho Na Ho", Soham Shah says he owes everything to "Dharma Productions". "No other producer can give me so much. Karan is a superb human being."

Soham now needs to push himself further. "I'm monitoring the critics' and audiences' responses. I'll make sure that I won't make the same mistakes in my second film."

Interview # 21

This Interview is from “www.filmfare.com”


* Interview: Feroz Khan

“Feroz Khan: 'Couples can be happy without being married”
(MADHUREETA MUKHERJEE)
INDIATIMES MOVIES

Q. Mumtaz was one of your favorite co-stars - the two of you made an impressive pair on-screen. How does it feel now that Fardeen’s engaged to her daughter, Natasha ?
A. Well, I didn’t imagine in my wildest dreams that one day our
children would be a real life couple! Mumtaz and I have done
so many films together; little did I know that our paths would
cross again and we’d be one big family. Life surprises you all
the time, doesn’t it?

Q. Which of the two makes a better pair “the onscreen Feroz and Mumtaz, or the off-screen Fardeen and Natasha”?
A. Ha, ha! Well, I suppose both were good in their own time. At
their age, I think, Mumtaz and I looked lovely together, if
not better. We can’t compare the four of us, because Natasha
and Fardeen isn’t a romantic screen couple. But Natasha is a
pretty girl, and they made a great pair together!

Q. If you were to choose a girl for Fardeen, she would be...
A. I wouldn’t ˜choose” a girl for him, ever. I’m a very
independent person and in this day and age you can’t choose a
life companion for somebody - I think it’s one of the aspects
of our culture that’s outdated. Totally obsolete. After all,
they have to live their lives, not us, or the rest of society.
Many weddings that are match-made break up; so do many
love-marriages, too. The averages are against every kind of
marriage. You never know what works, so just follow your heart
and happiness will follow you.

Q. You believe that marriages are made in heaven?
A. Marriage is an inevitable fact of life; it’s a social norm
which is bound by legalities. On another level, it also allows
the change of hands for assets, as whatever goes to the next
of kith-kin. It’s a validation of a relationship by society,
because one needs a certain name in society, children need a
name and an identity. Having said that, I think two people can
be happy without being married; they can live a life of love
together without having to sign documents.

Q. One of India’s most eligible and good looking bachelors is losing his ˜single” status. Do you think that will affect his screen popularity?
A. There are many popular actors who have been married for
years. I know Fardeen is popular and a gorgeous looking guy,
but that does not mean he can stag on forever without
settling down if he wants to. He’s made his choice and I’m
happy for him. He proposed to her in the skies - on a flight
from London to America, he suddenly popped the question with a
ring! It’s indeed, very, very romantic. Now I hope it’s a
heavenly wedding.

Q. What’s with the Khan boys - they all seem to be bitten by the “lady bug”....
A. Yeah, about time, I think! Zayed is also tying the knot this
year, a month before Fardeen. Mallika (Zayed’s fiancé) is a
lovely girl; he’s known her for a very long time.

Q. Where do the boys get their good looks from “ their Dads?
A. Well, all I can say is that self recommendation is no praise.
Ha, ha!

Interview # 22

This Interview is from “www.filmfare.com”


* Interview: Kareena Kapoor

“Kareena On Her 'Marriage Plans'! I'll never let go of my career for a man.” (MADHUREETA MUKHERJEE)
INDIATIMES MOVIES

The industry is abuzz. Rumours are flying fast and furious
about Kareena Kapoor getting ready to tie the big M-knot.
Fuelled by a very obvious change in her of late “ from being
the speedy, dashing Bebo, she seems to have had a mind
make-over, into a calmer, more patient and peace-loving girl.
And non-controversial, too. Maybe sister Karisma’s recent
Mommie-hood has enthused her towards wifely-hood; or perhaps
It’s simply lover-boy Shahid Kapoor’s romantic spell. But we
weren’t going to believe any such careless whispers, so we
asked Kareena: Was the shaadi to be or ˜knot”-to be?...

Q. Are wedding vows on the way as the grapevine insists?
A. The news is total rubbish! There’s no truth in it at all.
Frankly, the idea hasn’t even crossed my mind at this stage. I
can’t think about it now - my good phase is just beginning.
I’ll never let go of my career for a man.

Q. So how did these rumours start smoking?
A. I guess it’s because I haven’t signed any film. I’m just
holding back for the next six months, as I would rather be
unemployed than just keep working on anything that comes my
way. I’m not desperate to sign films for the sake of being
seen. I’ve said no to about six films in the last two weeks. I
want to work on a rocking script, a fab role and a good
director. Or else I’m not interested.

Q. Maybe your ˜wedded”, pati-vrata roles in ˜Aitraaz” and ˜Bewafaa” are fuelling the marital affairs ...?
A. Well, I had no problems playing any of those roles “ if I can
look glamorous and sizzle in one film, I have no qualms about
wearing a mangalsutra and sindoor in another. I’m an actress,
after all, and I’m here to entertain. I can’t hold the
audiences attention by doing the same thing each time”
right? So my choice of roles has been like a mixed bag of
goodies. And that’s how it’s going to be henceforth.

Q. After Lolo’s baby girl was born, all eyes are affixed on you; everyon’s asking, ˜Will Kareena be next?”
A. No ya! In fact, Karisma is the one who keeps telling me,
˜Stop trying to be Kareena Kapoor, the big star and looking
beautiful on-screen; instead, concentrate on your roles and
get into the skin of your characters”. I’m so glad I followed
her advice. I’ve got the best compliments and appreciation for
my films like ˜Chameli”, ˜Yuva” and ˜Dev”.

Q. So now, how far a shot is marriage for you?
A. Honestly? Well, not for the next eight years, at least. Till
then, cinema, cinema and only good cinema for me! But yes,
when I get there, I’m sure I’ll love it, just like my sister
did. I wouldn’t care about who did what, who said what, and
who wrote what. It won’t matter then!

Q. You think married actresses have a promising future in films?
A. An actress will never cease to be an actress. The face of
Indian cinema is positively changing; there are strong scripts
written for women nowadays. The kind of films an actress does
over time can be different, but I think even after marriage
she must continue working. I’m sure even after years after my
wedding, I’ll continue acting. Work will always be my
priority.

Q. We’ve also heard about your sudden interest in spirituality ...
A. Yes, I’ve discovered that spirituality is almost magical.
It’s awesome, as it teaches you how to surf rough tides in
your stride. It’s about acceptance and perseverance.
Spirituality brings so much peace and positivity in you, that
at times you think you can take anything in life. Besides, in
this world of fame and power, nothing is forever....what I
have today will not be mine tomorrow. Spirituality helps you
see things that you would otherwise overlook.

News # 107

These News are from “www.bollywoodworld.com”


* Vivek-Ash ‘marriage plans’ blown out of proportion
02nd May 2005 21.00 IST
By Nitika Desai

So much was read into the brief statement that Vivek Oberoi recently made about his ‘marriage plans’ with Aishwarya Rai . Rest assured, the marriage won’t happen for quite some time.

Vivek is angry at the way his statement about Ash in Aaj Tak interview was blown out of proportion. He alleges that it was absolutely unjust for the channel to single out a few assorted statements and twist the context in which they were said.

In the interview Vivek was repeatedly prodded by Prabhu Chawla, the senior correspondent of the channel, to comment on his relationship with Ash and their marriage plans. And when Vivek did reply that he indeed would marry Ash, it was as if the channel got the trump card they were looking for.

Like a fire in a forest, the news of Ash and Vivek’s “imminent marriage” spread, causing much distress to the family members of Aishwarya.

Vivek, who is equally distressed by the incident, is quoted as saying: “I believe the press needs to draw a line between news-worthiness and conscientious reporting. We can't have half-truths and distortions passing off as facts especially in an interview conducted by a serious political journalist.”

“From now on, I'll insist that my interviews are used in totality. All I'll say is my intentions towards Aishwarya Rai are honourable, and so is my attitude to the press,” says Vivek.

The once-bitten Vivek has also vowed to be extremely cautious about making media statements regarding Ash. Ash, by nature, is a woman who refrains from talking about her personal life in public. It is the code that Vivek too will have to respect.


* King Khan has his way with Videocon-Sansui awards
03rd May 2005 09.06 IST
By ApunKaChoice Bureau

It is said that one should never throw stones at a sleeping lion. That’s what precisely happened with Shah Rukh Khan and now the organizers of the Videocon-Sansui awards are bearing the brunt.

SRK is known for not taking things lightly specially if it involves his near and dear ones. And who are closer to him than his own wife Gauri Khan and his brother-like friend Karan Johar .

SRK was annoyed that Rangita Nandy, Pritish Nandy´s daughter and the producer of the Aishwarya Rai - Sanjay Dutt starrer Shabd , had turned away Karan and Gauri from a special screening of the film as according to Rangita "They were not invited ".

Now, the Videocon-Sansui awards are organised by Pritish Nandy´s company PNC and SRK had put his foot down if it were to organise the awards this year too and so Pritish was politely asked to keep away.

The organizers tried their level best for a patch-up between SRK and Nandy, but once the King Khan had put his foot down, there was no chance.

The conclusion of all this was that the awards that were scheduled to be held in Birmingham on May 29, have now been cancelled as most of the award winning movies this year feature SRK.

But there are strong chances that SRK won’t disappoint his fans (who have been waiting for months) and may perform at a concert instead in Birmingham on the same date.

News # 108

These News are from “www.b4utv.com”


* Bachchan lets go off a crore

When Bollywood superstar Shahrukh Khan approached Amitabh Bachchan to do a guest appearance for his film Paheli, Bachchan willingly agreed. Bachchan is known to charge a crore for making special appearances but for Shahrukh Khan’s Paheli Bachchan refuse to charge a rupee. For all those who thought that Bachchan had become money minded considering the number of commercials he was seen in, his gesture towards Shahrukh shows that the actor is a thorough gentleman when it comes to his friends and colleagues. Another feather in Bachchan’s cap is the recent success of Waqt. He never had it so good, did he?


* Bachchan in music video

Big B and music video? Yes, you just read it right! Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan will now feature in a music video to be directed by Shaad Ali. Bachchan will be seen mouthing lines like Just like an angry character with a lotta of soul… Dem call him Bunty with a heart of gold… Like a beautiful angel comin’ out of the cold… There’s only one Babli and that’s for sure… to promote Shaad Ali’s Bunty Aur Babli starring Abhishek Bachchan and Rani Mukherjee. Blaaze has penned down the lyrics who addresses Amitabh Bachchan by rap name Uncle B!


* Ramesh Sippy bounces back

Zamana Deewana starring Shahrukh Khan and Raveena Tandon was the most recent film Ramesh Sippy directed. And now, Sippy is all set to wield the megaphone once again. There is a strong buzz that Amitabh Bachchan and Abhishek Bachchan will be playing the lead in this film. However, Sippy only confirms that he has plans to direct a film. "But I have not yet finalized the lead in the film. I am still writing the script. Till the final draft is not ready I cannot say anything," he said. Ramesh Sippy's production banner has just completed a film directed by Vikram Bhatt. Son Rohan Sippy will launch his film by the end of this year. Director Milan Luthria too will direct a film under the banner starring Nana Patekar and John Abraham.


* Karan Johar: Never say goodbye

After hosting a show, getting into production with Kaal and giving spate of interviews to the media, Karan Johar is now busy penning down the script of his next film. If reports are to be believed, the film will star Amitabh Bachchan, Shahrukh Khan, Abhishek Bachchan, Priety Zinta and Rani Mukherjee. And it is likely to be titled Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna. Buzz has it that the entire film will be shot in Australia. "That's not true," informs Johar. "I have not yet decided on the location of my film. Strangely the media seems to be knowing more about my film than me." The film will roll later in the year and not in July as reported.


* Big B: Old times’ sake

He is a Bachchan favorite. And Bachchan is his favorite star. He has been loyal to Amitabh Bachchan since Big B first launched him as a Hindi film director. He is S.Ramanathan. The duo have worked in films like Mahaan, Geraftaar and Ganga Jamuna Saraswati. Ramanthan has just completed Zamantha starring Amitabh Bachchan, Vijayashanti, Arshad Warsi and Karisma Kapoor. The film is expected to hit the theatres this June. Ramanathan is ready to start his next project. And it will star none other than Mallika Sherawat. What makes it interesting is that she will be paired opposite the Big B. Ramanathan has already narrated the script to her. Sherawat has shown keen interest in being a part of the film. Now, now, hadn't Mallika in an interview said that she likes the way Amitabh runs. She finds him to be sexy when he runs. Ramanathan needs to include a running scene in the film, what say!


* The making of Paheli

Director Samar Khan will now make a documentary on Shahrukh Khan's Paheli. The film directed by Amol Palekar stars Shahrukh Khan and Rani Mukherjee. "This one and a half hour documentary will give details about the making of the film. When I learnt about Paheli, an idea struck me. Why not make a documentary on it. I told Shahrukh about it and he gave me a go ahead." When asked if this was his gesture to return Shahrukh's favour for making an appearance in Kuch Meetha Ho Jaaye, Samar said, "I can never repay Shahrukh for what he did for me!"


* Ash in Mundra film

Aishwarya Rai is excited! She is off to London to shoot for Jagmohan Mundra’s Provoked. “It is about an Indian woman who gets married to a man living in London. It is only when she stays in London does she realize that she is in an abusive marriage. Mundra met me when I was shooting in London for Mistress Of Spices. We struck a deal that very week. The film will be completed in a single schedule by end of June,” she informed. Back home, she will begin shooting for Rajkumar Santoshi’s Saamna with Ajay Devgan. Dhoom 2, where Ash plays a character with grey shades will also begin in November this year.

News # 109

These News are from “www.bollywoodmantra.com”


* Preity Zinta is homesick

Having already spent a month in Melbourne, Bollywood star Preity Zinta says she is missing her mother and Mumbai city.
"I'm going to be shooting here for so long I think I should just settle down in Australia!" chuckles Preity, who has been in Melbourne shooting for Yashraj production Salaam Namaste with Saif Ali Khan for over a month.

"I'm homesick. I miss mom and Mumbai... in that order. According to my horoscope, I'm destined to be globe-trotting for most of this year just like it happened last year," she told on phone from Melbourne.

After Melbourne, Preity moves to Sydney for a Karan Johar film.

"So it's Australia all the way. I don't think I'll be back in India until October," she says.

"But you know what's the saddest part of being away from Mumbai for so long? People get a chance to spread rumours. The latest about me is that I have split with Ness Wadia. I wish I could give people reason to gossip about me."

Preity is, however, gung-ho about her new film.

"Fortunately Salaam Namaste is shaping up so well... Director Siddharth knows his job. Whether it was Farhan Akhtar in Dil Chahta Hai or Honey Irani in Armaan, I always enjoy working with new directors.

"They are so open to ideas, learning on the job so to speak. When I was shooting with Yash (Chopra) uncle for Veer-Zara, I just put my feet up and let him guide me through the film. Making a film is far more interactive with a newcomer like Siddharth."

Recalling how she signed the film, Preity says: "I still remember Siddharth came to me in Goa to read the script of Salaam Namaste. He thought I'd say no because I've the reputation for being choosy. But one has to be careful. One wrong move and you're gone!"


* Aishwarya Rai Provoked into doing Mundhra film
Or
“Ash will shock all, if 'Provoked'!”

Surprises have become a part of Aishwarya Rai’s personality. But this one would take even her close friends aback. Tonight, Aishwarya Rai is scheduled to fly off to London to shoot a major, hush-hush film.

“Yes, it’s called Provoked,” she confirms. “I leave to shoot for a start-to-finish schedule in London, which ends in June. It’s the true story of a Punjabi woman named Kiranjit Ahluwalia, who left India to marry a London-based guy only to be badly abused in the marriage.

She finally ends up in prison for murdering her husband. Her predicament connects with me in ways I never felt before.”

Provoked is being directed by Jagmohan Mundhra, whose earlier credits include Kamla and Bawandar, both dealing with the subject of traumatised women.

“The director calls it his trilogy of tributes to Indian womanhood,” says Ash. “It happened very suddenly. It all came together. I was in the UK for Mistress Of Spices when they approached me with the idea. I immediately consented. Within two weeks, everything fell in place.”

The film is being produced by a friend of the Rais. “The producer is Dr Murli, who produced one my early films, Jeans. They’ve never exploited their relations with me. They came to me again only when they had the right project.”

Provoked is based on a case that forced the law on crimes of passion to be amended in the UK. “I think Jagmohan Mundhra is the right person to tackle the subject,” says the actress.

“What I find especially interesting is, eventually the woman finds justice within her horrific circumstances. I play the central character to give a known face to the woman’s plight. It’s a role that requires me to go through many shades.

From hurt-shock-anger to a tentative sense of vindication…. This is actually the first time I’m playing a real-life character, so you can imagine my excitement and nervousness.”

Provoked also features Miranda Richardson, Naveen Andrews, Jimmy Mistry and Nandita Das.

News # 110

These News are from “www.teenstation.com”


* After Shah Rukh, it is Amitabh Bachchan
By V.S.
Some time back, when Amol Palekar went to Shah Rukh Khan with the scrip of PAHELI, so impressed was SRK that he not only agreed to do the film but also decided to produce it. Amitabh Bachchan also plays a very vital role in the film and according to sources, Big B was so impressed with Palekar’s work that he asked him to make a film for his banner too. Way to go, Palekar!


* Angelina Jolie meets Pak PM
By ANI
London, May 5 : Tomb Raider star Angelina Jolie met the Pakistan Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz in Islamabad to commend him for the role his country played in hosting Afghan refugees.
Jolie who is a UN goodwill ambassador is on a three day visit to Pakistan, after reports showed that more than 3 million Afghans were living in Pakistan, to escape wars and poverty since 1979, when Soviet troops invaded Afghanistan.
According to Femalefirst, she also accepted an invitation from Aziz to be the keynote speaker at a donors conference, to raise funds for Afghan refugees, which will be hosted by Pakistan later this year.


* Tusshar is the surprise package
By V.S.
The movie Kya Kool Hai Hum has got an excellent buzz. Even the Trade who had a sneak preview of the film has great reports to coming forward to about the awesome chemistry between Tusshar & Ritesh Deshmukh. Ritesh has proven himself in comedy in Masti but the surprise package is Tusshar. He has shed out his boy next-door image and is in true form in the comic sequences. He is the one to watch out for in Kya Kool Hai Hum. His comic timing is simply awesome!


* Boom director plans his next
By V.S.
Director Kaizad Gustad who shot into the limelight with Bombay Boys and Boom – both films went bust at the box office, ran out of luck when his ambitious project, Mumbai Central crashed into trouble when one of his assistants was killed by a speeding train while shooting on the railway tracks. He is back after a brief hibernation. He will be soon launching his next project which will have leading stars in its cast. Watch out!


* Aamir Khan A Big Planner
By V.S.
It is a well-known fact that Aamir Khan plans everything in advance and this is how he has been functioning all his life. His next venture, THE RISING is all set to release in August this year and he is busy with the shooting of RANG DE BASANTI. According to sources, the entire team of RANG DE BASANTI is working on a war-footing note and they are planning to release the film in January, 2006. In the mean time, Aamir will also start shooting for Kunal Kohli’s next film, which also stars Kajol in female lead. Most probably, this film will be released mid-2006. It seems, the perfectionist Aamir Khan wants to keep a six month gap between his every release. Cool, isn’t it?


* Big B in a blind role in his next with Karishma!
By ANI
Mumbai, May.4 : Bollywood actors are taking keen interest in playing roles of blind people.
The latest actor to join the bandwagon is Amitabh Bachchan. In the forthcoming movie Zamaanat, he will be playing the role of a blind lawyer who has given up his practice but comes back to defend a man charged with murder.
The movie also has Karisma Kapur and Arshad Warsi paired opposite each other.
The completion party was celebrated in the Mumbai city yesterday with great ilan.


* `Soon to wed' Aishwarya heads for London!
By ANI
Mumbai, May.3 : Life is full of surprises, and Bollywood actress Aishwarya Rai won't deny it. Tonight, Aishwarya is scheduled to fly off to London to shoot a major secret film.
The movie "Provoked" which is being directed by Jagmohan Mundhra, also features Miranda Richardson, Naveen Andrews, Jimmy Mistry and Nandita Das.
The movie is based on a true story of a Punjabi woman named Kiranjit Ahluewalia, who left India to marry a London-based guy only to be badly abused in the marriage. Provoked is being directed by Jagmohan Mundhra, whose earlier credits include Kamla and Bawandar, both dealing with the subject of the traumatised woman.

News # 111

This News is from “www.santabanta.com”


* Netaji film premier a 'no show'

The premier of Shyam Benegal's film "Bose, The Forgotten Hero", to be held here Thursday and which the producers claimed would achieve a Guinness record for attendance, failed to take place.

Sahara One Motion Pictures, the producers of the film, had claimed that their mega premiere show on the sprawling Eastern Command Ground here would create a world record for headcount.

"We have deferred the premiere. We will hold it sometime later this month. We could not get the (Army) ground," a spokesman of Sahara India told here.

Sahara sources hinted that the hope of achieving an entry into the Guinness Book of Records would remain unachieved.

The release of the film, which was completed long back, has been deferred time and again owing to one reason or the other, including legal impediments.

Earlier, five deponents to the Mukherjee Commission, probing the mystery surrounding Netaji's whereabouts after the 1945 Taihoku aircrash in Japan, had threatened to move court against the filmmakers for showing the national hero as a "married" man.

The deponents, all Netaji researchers, also wrote to Censor Board of Film Certification chairperson Sharmila Tagore and secretaries of the union home and information and broadcasting ministries against the Shyam Benegal film which allegedly has scenes of a "married" Netaji.

Former Trinamool Congress MP Krishna Bose, widow of Netaji's nephew Sisir Bose, told recently that the film had brought out Bose, the man, very well.

"Bose The Forgotten Hero" has been made with a budget of Rs.220 million. It captures the remarkable journey of Bose from 1941 to 1945 in the backdrop of the Second World War and the exploits of Indian National Army founded by him to free India from the yoke of British rule.

News # 112

This News is from “www.santabanta.com”


* I'm not averse to Bollywood

Having won the hearts of millions of Indians with her Sufi music, Pakistani singer Abida Parveen says she is not averse to singing for Bollywood.

"Many offers have come in the past, but then I was very busy with my work abroad... If some offer from Bollywood comes my way now, I can think about it," says Parveen, considered by many as heir to the late qawali legend Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan.

"However, the Bollywood work would involve writing the songs and the music totally for it," says Parveen, who was recently here for a Sufi music festival.

"At the moment, I am in discussions with a Mumbai-based composer for bringing out a tribute album on Baba Bulle Shah," she says.

The Sufi singer says her work revolves around stage performances and bringing out Sufi albums which itself is a "full time job."

She has the reputation for making thousands of her fans weep when settles into a trance. "Sufi allah ke ishq me jalta hai magar logon par marham ka kaam karta hai" (Sufi is the burning love of Allah that soothes mortals), she says about her work.

The 51-year old singer is no stranger to India, with having performed here even during troubled times. "Music is the best way to achieve peace and in Sufism there is only peace," she says.

"Also, Sufi music knows no boundaries," says Parveen, adding this is one instrument which binds people across the borders (Indians and Pakistanis) together.

"The two countries share so much in common - the culture and traditions. Sufi music can play a major role in uniting them," she says. "I always sing of peace and harmony."

Parveen recalls that she has seen Germans and Israelis becoming mesmerised with Sufi music. "The language did not matter."

Parveen was born in Sindh province in Pakistan, where her father ran a music school. Though women were at that time not encouraged to sing, recognising his daughter's talents, her father encouraged Parveen to sing.

Parveen studied classical music and has performed in a wide range of venues - from the shrines of saints in Sindh to the world's greatest concert halls.

Her repertoire includes ghazals, traditional Sufi music and even classical music. She has received many awards including the "Pride of Performance" by Pakistan government.

On commercialisation of Sufi music and latest popular hit "Bulla ki jana mein kaun", she says, "whatever they are doing is their work. It is all adding to the popularisation of Sufi music."

As for herself, she says "for my work, I get inspiration from old texts of Sufi poets and then I compose the music."

She has released many albums, the most popular ones being "Songs of the mystics", "Baba bulhe shaha" and "Hakim nasir" along with popular folk songs like "Mast qalandar" and "Ho jammalo".

News # 113

This News is from “www.santabanta.com”


* See who's tying knot with Fardeen!

It is official. Bollywood star Fardeen Khan is getting engaged to his London-based girlfriend Natasha Madhvani today.

Natasha, the daughter of former actress Mumtaz and British business tycoon Mayur Madhvani has been Fardeen's girlfriend for a long time.

The ceremony will be held at a classy London venue , followed by lunch at the Hapstead hotel for 50 to 60 family members and close friends. The date of the marriage is still to be fixed.

There are already two marriages coming up as cousin Zayed ties the knot with girlfriend Mallika in December. However, it is heard that they are planning for a wedding in early 2006.

Fardeen’s mother Sundari Khan, who is in London, is quite ecstatic about her son's engagement.

"It’s such a great feeling. My baby is getting engaged," she gushes. "Our families have been friends for years and now we will all be one big family. And to a girl I have known all my life. I saw Natasha when she opened her eyes for the first time.

"I met Mumtaz yesterday and I asked her ‘Can you believe it, we are going to be related?’ I am not one of those mothers who worries about getting old on the eve of her son getting hitched. It’s one of the happiest days of my life, and I am going to enjoy it.”

Fardeen will be clad in a handmade, classic formal 3-button suit with two back vents with satin detailing and finishing white, hand-woven silk, with a wedge collar with cufflink sleeves. He will have silver crystal cufflinks and also a custom-made, white hand woven silk tie to complete the look. The dress will be designed by Shaahid Amir.

News # 114

This News is from “www.santabanta.com”


* 'There's no sex in the film!'

Kool, ultra-cool - that just about defines the mood for this week's releases. With Harry Baweja's profound "Main Aisa Hi Hoon" and Ekta Kapoor's "Kya Kool Hain Hum" targeted at the urban youth, viewers can look forward to a week of variety.

With "Kya Kool Hain Hum", TV tycoon Ekta turns film producer again. So what if she has burnt her fingers with her first three "Kyunkii Main Jhooth Nahin Bolta", "Kucch To Hai" and "Krishna Cottage"? She knows what she wants and is determined to get it.

Evidently inspired by the success of Indra Kumar's raunchy sex comedy "Masti" last year, Ekta Kapoor has got her "Krishna Cottage" director Sangeeth Sivan (brother of Santosh Sivan) to do an ensemble comedy.

"Kya Kool Hain Hum" features brother Tusshar with "Masti" star Riteish Deshmukh and Ekta insists there's no sex in the film. "It's just about guys having fun."

She targets the film at the cool urban gang. Even the girls Neha Dhupia and Isha Koppiker use their sexy images to have fun.

Sex is also far from the point in this week's other, more important and hopefully significant film. "Main Aisa Hi Hoon" is written by Bhavani Iyer who scripted "Black". But will "Main Aisa Hi Hoon" bring back some of the "Black" magic?

Interestingly, like "Black", "Main Aisa Hi Hoon" focuses on the life of the physically challenged protagonist.

Ajay Devgan plays a mentally challenged man fighting for the custody of his child. Sushmita Sen, back to the screen after her successful stint as the sensuous teacher in "Main Hoon Na", plays Devgan's lawyer.

The film attempts to replicate "Black" in its protagonist's predicament and is also shot in Shimla. But will director Harry Baweja replicate any of the excellence of "Black"?

Baweja's film brings back Ajay Devgan and Esha Deol for the second time in two weeks after "Kaal". After Mani Rathnam's "Yuva", the two are seen doing a tango together in "Main Aisa Hi Hoon".

Though Ajay is gung-ho about the project, distributors don't think a film featuring the leading man as mentally challenged would work.

But let's not forget, this is the year of the different cinema.

The first quarter of the year has thrown forward some of the most unusual films seen in recent years. From "Black" and "Page 3" to "My Brother...Nikhil", the unusual has become almost usual.

Who knows "Main Aisa Hi Hoon" could become the "Munnabhai M.B.B.S." of 2005. It all depends on the audience.

Info # 48

This Info is from “www.indiafm.com”


* “Upcoming Bollywood Movies”
New Upcoming Movie’s “Releasing Dates” are added.

# Next Week - 13th May

- Jo Bole So Nihaal
Producer: V.R. Entertainers.
Director: Rahul Rawail.
Music: Anand Raaj Anand.
Cast: Sunny Deol, Kamaal Khan.


# 20th May

- Bachke Rehna Re Baba
Producers: Vijay Galani, Rahul Sugandh.
Director: Govind Menon.
Music: Anu Malik.
Cast: Rekha, Mallika Sherawat, Paresh Rawal, Satish Shah.

- Naina
Producer: iDream Production.
Director: Shripal Morakhia.
Cast: Urmila Matondkar, Anuj Sawhney, Shweta Konnur.

- Nazar
Producer: Mukesh Bhatt.
Director: Soni Razdan.
Cast: Ashmit Patel, Meera.


# 27th May

- Bunty Aur Babli
Producer: Yashraj Films.
Director: Shaad Ali.
Music: Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy.
Cast: Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, Rani Mukerji.

- Koi Mere Dil Mein Hai
Producer: Prime Hi-Tech Studios P. Ltd.
Director: Deepak Ramsay.
Music: Nikhil-Vinay.
Cast: Priyanshu Chatterjee, Dia Mirza, Rakesh Bapat, Neha.

- Zinda Dil
Producer: M. M. Movies.
Director: Mohan Baggad.
Music: Nadeem Shravan.
Cast: Abbas, Ashima Bhalla, Om Puri, Sharad Kapoor.

- Jackpot
Producer: Ritesh G. Nayyar.
Director: Samit L. Baadkar.
Music: Dhruva Phukan
Cast: Himanshu, Meghna Naidu.


# Expected in May / June

- Shaadi Karke Phas Gaya Yaar
Producer: Bubby Kent.
Director: K.S. Adhiyaman.
Music: Sajid-Wajid, Daboo Malik.
Cast: Salman Khan, Shilpa Shetty.

- Fareb
Producers: Rajesh Singh, Sanjeev Jaiswal.
Director: Deepak Tijori.
Music: Anu Malik.
Cast: Shilpa Shetty, Manoj Bajpai, Shamita Shetty.

- Mr. Prime Minister
Writer-producer-director: Dev Anand.
Music: Bappi Lahiri, Darshan Dave.
Cast: Dev Anand, Tara Sharma, Dev Gill, Boman Irani.

- Gumnaam
Producer: Shubir Mukerji.
Director: Neeraj Pathak.
Music: Nadeem-Shravan.
Cast: Dino Morea, Mahima Chaudhary, Suman Ranganathan, Irrfan Khan.

- Film Star
Producers: Sahara India, Vishesh Films.
Director: Tanuja Chandra.
Music: : Jatin-Lalit
Cast: Mahima Chaudhary, Priyanshu Chatterjee, Vasundhara Das, Aryan Vaid.

- Hum Do Hamaara Ek
Producer: Smita Thackeray.
Director: Anees Bazmee.
Music: Aadesh Shrivastava, Sukhwinder Singh, Sandeep Chowta.
Cast: Govinda, Raveena Tandon, Mahima Chaudhary.

- Mumbai Godfather
Producers: Seven Mountain Movies P. Ltd., J-71 Studio P. Ltd.
Director: Deepak Balraj Vij.
Music: Shreerang Aras.
Cast: Seema Biswas, Vikram Singh.

- Mazaa Mazaa…
Producer: Kheraj Chhadva.
Director: T.L.V. Prasad.
Music: Arun Daga, Satish-Ajay, John Hunt.
Cast: Payal Rohatgi.


# 3rd June

- Silsiilay
Producer: Vashu Bhagnani.
Director: Khalid Mohamed.
Music: Himesh Reshammiya.
Cast: Tabu, Bhumika Chawla, Celina Jaitley, Riya Sen, Natassha, Divya Dutta, Rahul Bose, Jimmy Shergill, Ashmit Patel, K.K., Karan Panthaky.

- Mohabbat Ho Gayi Hai Tumse
Producer: Satish Khanna.
Director: Rishi Talwar.
Music: Sanjeev-Darshan.
Cast: Sanjay Dutt, Chandrachur Singh, Shamita Shetty.

- Matrubhoomi
Producers: Patrick Sobelman, Nicolas Blanc, Punkej Kharabanda.
Director: Manish Jha.
Music: --
Cast: Tulip Joshi, Sushant Singh, Sudhir Pandey, Piyush Mishra.


# 03rd June / 10th June

- D
Producers: RGV, UTV.
Director: Vishram Sawant.
Music: Nitin Raikwar.
Cast: Randeep Hooda, Yashpal Sharma, Sushant Singh, Chunkey Pandey, Goga Kapoor, Rukhsaar.


# 10th June

- Parineeta
Producer: Vidhu Vinod Chopra.
Director: Pradeep Sarkar.
Music: Shantanu Moitra.
Cast: Sanjay Dutt, Saif Ali Khan, new-find Vidya Balan, Raima Sen.

- Yakeen
Producer: Shreya Creations.
Director: Girish Dhamija.
Music: Himesh Reshammiya.
Cast: Arjun Rampal, Priyanka Chopra, Kim Sharma.

- Sehar
Producer: Choice Films.
Director: Kabeer Kaushik.
Music: Daniel B. George.
Cast: Arshad Warsi, Mahima Chaudhary, Pankaj Kapur, Sushant Singh, Suhasini Mulay.

- Siskiyaan
Producers: Guddu Dhanoa, Sunil Saini, Deepak Sharma
Director: Ashwini Choudhary.
Cast: Neha Dhupia, Sonu Sood.


# 17th June

- Paheli
Producers: Gauri Khan.
Director: Amol Palekar.
Music: M.M. Kreem.
Cast: Shah Rukh Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, Rani Mukerji, Juhi Chawla, Suniel Shetty, Anupam Kher.


# 24th June

- Maine Pyar Kyon Kiya
Producers: Dhilin Mehta, Sohail Khan.
Director: David Dhawan.
Music: Himesh Reshammiya.
Cast: Salman Khan, Sushmita Sen, Katrina Kaif, Sohail Khan, Isha Koppikar, Arshad Warsi.

- Mere Jeevan Saathi
Producer: Kareena Sana Combines.
Director: Suneel Darshan.
Music: Nadeem-Shravan.
Cast: Akshay Kumar, Karisma Kapoor, Amisha Patel.

- Barsaat
Producer-Director: Suneel Darshan.
Music: Nadeem-Shravan .
Cast: Bobby Deol, Priyanka Chopra, Bipasha Basu.

- Amar Joshi Shahid Ho Gaya
Producers: Vibha-Ragini.
Director: Rajneesh Thakur.
Music: Sukhwinder.
Cast: Suniel Shetty, Rajpal Yadav, Shawar Ali, Udita Goswami, Shayan Munshi, Om Puri.


# Expected in June

- No Entry
Producer: Boney Kapoor.
Director: Anees Bazmee.
Cast: Anil Kapoor, Salman Khan, Fardeen Khan, Bipasha Basu, Esha Deol, Lara Dutta, Celina Jaitley.

- Dil Jo Bhi Kahey…
Producer-director: Romesh Sharma.
Music: Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy.
Cast: Amitabh Bachchan, Revathy, Bhumika Chawla, Karan Sharma, Annabelle Wallis.

- Humko Tumse Pyaar Hai
Producer: Cineyug.
Director: Bunty Soorma.
Music: Anand Raaj Anand.
Cast: Bobby Deol, Amisha Patel, Arjun Rampal.

- Bhagmati - The Queen of Fortunes
Producer: Zee Telefilms.
Director: Ashok Kaul.
Music: Vishal Bharadwaj.
Cast: Tabu, Milind Soman, Somayajulu, Hema Malini [sp. app.].

- Iqbal - The Rampur Express
Producer: Mukta Arts Ltd.
Director: Nagesh Kukunoor.
Music: Sukhwinder Singh.
Cast: Naseeruddin Shah, Girish Karnad, Kapil Dev [sp. app.].

- Aashiqui
Producer: Naveen Tak.
Director: Jai Prakash.
Music: Anand-Milind.
Cast: Leena Sidhu, Yash, Shakti Kapoor, Govind Namdeo, Ashish Vidyarthi, Gulshan Grover.

- Ho Sakta Hai
Producer: Ashok Kotwani.
Director: Wilson Louis.
Cast: Victor Banerjee, Khalid, Mukesh Tiwari, Mohini, Dharmik.


# Expected in June / July

- Sarhad Paar
Producers: Nimbus Motion Pictures.
Director: Raman Kumar.
Music: Anand Raaj Anand.
Cast: Sanjay Dutt, Tabu, Mahima Chaudhary, Chandrachur Singh.


# 01st July

- Taj Mahal
Producer-director: Akbar Khan.
Music: Naushad.
Cast: Zulfikar, Sonya Jehan, Manisha Koirala, Kabir Bedi, Pooja Batra, Arbaaz Khan, Arbaaz Ali, Kim Sharma.


# 08th July

- Dus
Producer: Nitin Manmohan.
Director: Anubhav Sinha.
Music: Vishal-Shekhar.
Cast: Sanjay Dutt, Suniel Shetty, Abhishek Bachchan, Zayed Khan, Shilpa Shetty, Esha Deol, Dia Mirza, Raima Sen, Pankaj Kapur, Jawed Sheikh.


# 22nd July

- Chocolate
Producer: Vibha-Ragini.
Director: Vivek Agnihotri.
Music: Preetam.
Cast: Anil Kapoor, Suniel Shetty, Arshad Warsi, Emraan Hashmi, Irrfan, Tanushri Dutta, Sushma Reddy.


# Expected in July

- Milenge Milenge
Producer: Boney Kapoor.
Director: Satish Kaushik.
Music: Himesh Reshammiya.
Cast: Kareena Kapoor, Shahid Kapoor.


# 12th August

- Mangal Pandey
Producer: Bobby Bedi.
Director: Ketan Mehta.
Music: A.R. Rahman.
Cast: Aamir Khan, Rani Mukerji, Amisha Patel.

- Kyunki
Producers: Mukesh Talreja, Sunil Manchanda.
Director: Priyadarshan.
Music: Himesh Reshammiya.
Cast: Salman Khan, Kareena Kapoor, Rimii Sen, Jackie Shroff, Om Puri.


# Expected in July

- Kuch Din Kuch Pal
Producer: Spice Team Entertainment.
Director: K.S. Shiva.
Music: Manoj Bhatnagar.
Cast: Sudhanshu Pandey, Sonu Sood, Bhoomika Puri, Shruti Ulfat, Indraneel, Dellip Thadeshwar.

- Chess... A Game Plan
Producer: Spice Team Entertainment.
Director-music: Manoj Bhatnagar.
Cast: Mahima Chaudhary, Anupam Kher, Sonu Sood.


# 03rd November

- Shaadi No. 1
Producer: Vashu Bhagnani.
Director: David Dhawan.
Music: Anu Malik.
Cast: Sanjay Dutt, Fardeen Khan, Zayed Khan, Sharman, Esha Deol, Soha Ali Khan, Ayesha Takia, Ria Sen, Aarti Chhabria.

By Taran Adarsh

News # 115

This News is from “www.aishwarya-forever.com”


* Aishwarya faces attack of the clones
- hindustantimes.com

Aishwarya Rai is certainly having copy-right problems. First it was Sneha Ullal who created a stir with her Ash-like looks in Lucky. And now Ashwini Kale (pictured on the left) insists Ban Ke Rahoongi Aishwarya.

Interestingly Arif Khan, a man who is himself an Anil Kapoor clone, will direct Ashwini's debut film.

While Ashwini is confident of creating her own identity in Bollywood, she admits that a passing resemblance to the former Miss World does help. "I used to be a professional dancer in Mumbai and performed on tunes from Aishwarya and Madhuri Dixit films. One day I met Arif Khan and he asked me if I would be interested in a makeover. I now wear contact lenses and my screen appearance is surprisingly like that of Aishwarya. Arif wrote the script and decided the title Ban Ke Rahoongi Aishwarya," she says.

Ashwini denies any attempt to bask in Ash's reflected glory: "I want to make one thing clear. Ban Ke Rahoongi Aishwarya is not about my efforts to become Aishwarya Rai the filmstar. Rather it is the dream of one woman to be as successful as Aishwarya Rai is today. The fact that I happen to look like India's No. 1 actress is just incidental."

Arif, whose wife Zarmina is producing Ban Ke Rahoongi Aishwarya, is also keen to play down the starry connection. "Like Antra Mali in Main Madhuri Dixit Banana Chahti Hoon, I think it is the dream of every woman to become popular in life. In the process she often chooses some contemporary role model to follow. However I wanted to treat the subject a little differently. I have tried to showcase the enormous courage and confidence of this woman who is determined to become as big as her idol," he says.

According to Ashwini, the film industry's original doe-eyed beauty has no cause to take offence. Afterall imitation is the best form of flattery. "Today there's no other actress except Aishwarya who has earned so much name and fame. So what's wrong if I aim to touch the same heights of success in reel life that she has achieved in real life?" she quips.

Info # 49

These Info are from “www.bollyvista.com”


* 'Kya Kool Hai Hum' opens well!
By Our Correspondent ©2005 Bollyvista.com

Predictably, the opening of the Tusshar-Ritesh sex comedy, 'Kya Kool Hai Hum', was strong and encouraging, sending mild waves of euphoria in the film trade. Multiplexes are sold out till Sunday and the word-of-mouth is mostly positive. Even if the film does not sustain entirely on Monday, on the whole, it will have had a decent run thanks to its decent opening!


* Celina Jaitly gets social!
By Our Correspondent ©2005 Bollyvista.com

What is endometriosis? Abnormal menstrual bleeding that can lead to female infertility. Glam diva Celina Jaitly has decided to tackle this women's health issue by heading the Endometriosis Association in Mumbai in conjunction with leading doctors from India and UK in the next two months. Way to go, gal!

Info # 50

This Info is from “www.bollywoodheaven.com”


* 'K' FACTOR WORKS WONDER IN KOOL COMEDY
By Eye TV India Bureau
Critic's I-view

TV soap opera baron Ekta Kapoor launches her new project 'Kya Kool Hain Hum' successfully this week. Ekta has terrible luck when it comes to contemporary Bollywood cinema. "K" factor has worked wonders in TV operas ("Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi" and "Kahani Ghar Ghar Ki"), but failed in cinema. Films like "Kyunki Main Jhooth Nahin Bolta", 'Kuchh To Hai' and 'Krishna Cottage' bombed at the box office. Believe it or not, Ekta has struck gold this time with youthful fun- filled entertainer 'Kya Kool Hain Hum' ('KKHH'). The film derives its plot and subject from successful Hollywood flicks 'American Pie', 'American Pie 2' and to an extent Indra Kumar's 'Masti'.

'KKHH' cannot be termed as absurd comedy but naughty and rib- tickling though. The film has a load of fun filled humorous plot that emanates in David Dhawan's films. "Get Kool This Summer", the film tagline is derived from the tagline "This summer it's all about sticking together" from 'American Pie 2'. 'KKHH' is a joyride that is stretched into two and half hours with some fine performances. Item girl Ishaa Koppikar is simply brilliant and best among the "cool dudes" on the screen. Tusshar Kapoor and Riteish Deshmukh on screen pranks are praise worthy with some well-conceived hilarious moments. Product endorsements have been added attractions with some national and international brands featuring in major parts of the film.

Brands like "Spykar Jeans", "Barista Coffee Bar" and "Pantaloons" featured at major portions. The film shows promising signs to endorse products through powerful media of cinema in a positive way. Added attractions like "Dil Mera" from Rishi Rich, Jay Sean and Juggy D have enlightened film prospects. MTV host Sophiya has been another factor that raises hopes with some fast pace track. Director Sangeeth Sivan has earlier directed films like 'Zor' and 'Chura Liya Hai Tumne'. He was supposed to direct horror film for Ekta Kapoor, but the failure of 'Krishna Cottage' has prompted them for youthful comedy.
'Kya Kool Hai Hum' centers around two fun loving guys Rahul (Tusshar Kapoor) and Karan (Riteish Deshmukh). Karan is sincere and hardworking and plans to make big in real life. Karan is simply opposite of Rahul as for him life is a joyride to be enjoyed. Despite the fact they are shades different they are bosom friends. Rahul aspires to be country's biggest fashion designer whereas Karan dreams of a beautiful and rich girl. Their dreams and aspirations bring them to the land of opportunities - Mumbai. Mumbai is terrified by serial killings and rapes of innocents. The police is in search of a serial killer. Circumstances take funny turns and Rahul becomes the prime suspect of the serial killing. Hilarious criminologist Dr Screwwala (Anupam Kher) along with the police plans to nab Rahul. Beautiful, vivacious and violent police officer Urmila Matondkar is assigned the job of nabbing Rahul.

Urmila enters Rahul's life and seduces him with her seductive gestures and moves. She plans to expose Rahul's evil doings to the police and public. Karan makes ambitious plan as he entices his boss' ex-girlfriend Kiran. In order to get rid of Karan from Kiran's life they seek help from Kiran's cousin Rekha (Neha Dhupia). In a state of confusion things gets messed up completely. Urmila falls in love with Rahul and Rekha gets cozy with Karan. Urmila is convinced that Rahul is innocent, but the police department is not convinced. Karan's boss D.K (Raj Zutshi) repents and searches for his ladylove Kiran. In a tug of war, Karan fights for Kiran while Rahul escapes from the police custody. As the plot thickens the real culprit is nabbed and the film ends on a happy note.

After 'Munnabhai M.B.B.S' this is the second spontaneous comedy that has worked wonders at the box office. Perfect timing, chirpy dialogues, competent performances and pleasant music have made this film hit at the box office. The film caters to pop generation that is basically city centric. 'KKHH' will be a treat for teenyboppers who are craving for fun-loving entertainment. Story, screenplay and dialogues by Sachin Yardi and Pankaj Trivedi are spontaneous, hilarious, naughty and double- meaning. Anu Malik's music is tailor-made for the pop generation as the soundtracks gel well with the script. Costume designs by Manish Malhotra and Reza Sheriff are trendy, cool and upbeat. The designer wears have been flaunted with ease and style. Cinematography by Ramji suits the mood of the film and the characters. "Dil Mera" has been shot well with some fine choreography.

Tusshar's performance is better as he shines with his comical histrionics. Riteish Deshmukh repeats his 'Masti' performance once again with some chirpy dialogues. Ishaa Koppikaar surprises all with her pan (betel) chewing depiction of Marathi violent police inspector. Ishaa has been termed "item girl" so far but comes out winner all the way. Neha Dhupia has itsy bitsy role but still she shines in sensuous costumes and numbers. Both the girls have made sensuous moves with some fine titillating soundtracks. Anupam Kher proves his mettle as a competent comical character artiste. Shoma Anand shows her color, and Rajpal Yadav lives up to audience's expectations.

Overall, producer Ekta Kapoor and director Sangeeth Sivan have struck gold this time and Ekta's losing streak at the box office might end. 'KKHH' is surely a winner on the entertainment front and has heaps of mind-blowing entertainment for campus crowds. The never-ending draught of the box office might end with the success of this film. The "K" factor has done wonders for Ekta and Tusshar this time and Papa Jeetendra might feel proud and happy with 'KKHH'.

Info # 51

This Info is from “www.bollywoodheaven.com”


* A DECENT HOLLYWOOD COPYCAT
By Eye TV India Bureau
Critic's I-view

Ajay Devgan has maintained on screen chemistry with filmmaker Harry Baweja for the last decade. The duo has given films like 'Diljale', 'Dilwale', 'Deewane' and 'Qayamat', and 'Main Aisi Hi Hoon' is the latest offering. Last week Ajay Devgan delivered remarkable performance in jungle tale 'Kaal' and now he fulfills his promise in 'MAHH'. The film will be better known for its brilliant performances rather than for its narrative skills. Sushmita Sen is certainly the show stellar with her performance of intelligent and manipulative lawyer.

The film is highly inspired from Hollywood hit 'I am Sam', a heart piercing family drama. 'MAHH' comes out with the tagline "A normal man in an abnormal world" whereas 'I am Sam' punch line is "love is all you need". Generally, Bollywood films are inspired from Hollywood's soft porn murder mysteries or action thrillers, but this time a sensible and sensitive Hollywood flick has been rehashed. Ajay Devgan's character is inspired from the Sean Penn character (Sam) and Sushmita Sen's character resembles Michelle Pieffer's (Rita Harrison) from the film 'I am Sam'.

Mentally challenged characters have been source of inspirations for Bollywood filmmakers for many years. Hrithik Roshan and Anil Kapoor have excelled in such performances in 'Koi Mil Gaya' and 'Eeshwar'. Sridevi struck gold with her award winning performance in 'Sadma'. Now , it's Ajay Devgan in 'MAHH'. Harry Baweja's films are generally action oriented. But this time he shifts gears and lands in conventional family drama. Screenplay writer Bhavani Iyer surprised everybody with her writing skills in Bhansali's 'Black', but disappoints completely in 'MAHH'. The similarity between the two is the backdrop of Shimla and the love hate relationship between child and parents. Harry Baweja's story and Iyer's screenplay have many cracks and dents that nullify the actor's genius. Parent child relationships have been the center of attraction among family audiences with films like 'Masoom' and 'Kunwara Baap'. 'MAHH' falls into such a cadre where the intensity of the relationship has been explored and glorified.

The film shows relationship between a mentally challenged father and his daughter and the negligence of over-ambitious mother with her son. The film glorifies child- like innocence of an autistic man that works wonder on the heart and mind of a highly professionally motivated lawyer. Despite the fact that the theme of the film is thought- provoking, it lacks the fire and niche to be a perfect family entertainer. The story of the film revolves around Indraneel Thakur alias Neel (Ajay Devgan), mentally challenged man, and his daughter Gun Gun (Baby Rucha Vaidya). Neel has child-like innocence that makes him special among the local fellow beings. On one stormy night, Neel encounters Maya (Esha Deol), rich and spoilt girl from an affluent family. Maya hails from a rich industrialist family but is neglected and isolated.

To counter her frustration she becomes a drug addict. Neel's child- like innocence attracts her, and her life rejuvenates. Neel is sheltered by Ritu didi (Lillete Dubey) and works under Devesh (Anjan Srivastav), coffee bar owner. Love blossoms between Neel and Maya, and she conceives baby girl Gun Gun. Maya abandons her newly born daughter and Neel. In due course of time, Gun Gun matures into a lovable schoolgirl. Life takes a turn on her seventh birthday when her grand father Dayanath Trivedi (Anupam Kher) enters their lives. Trivedi seeks Gun Gun's custody in the court, and Neel is challenged for his handicap. Disheartened and disappointed Neel requests most trusted lawyer Niti Khanna (Sushmita Sen) to plead her case. Niti finds no interest in Neel's case, but one day she realizes her mistake and decides to argue for him. Niti finds it hard to plead Neel's case as a competent father in the court but finally wins with her intelligence and professional skills.

The subject and concept of the film may have the novelty but lacks substance. Esha Deol's character has been semi-baked. There are many loopholes in the script. The chemistry between Ajay and Esha has not been developed properly. For example, when Maya (Esha Deol) abandons her baby girl and disappears from the scene, it looks absurd. The courtroom drama has not been properly conceived with some low paced dialogues from Anurag Kashyap. The story falters when a respectable and intelligent business tycoon blames the mentally challenged man for her daughter's demise though he knows the truth.

Himesh Reshammiya's music is encouraging and heartwarming. Songs like "Just walk in to my life" and "chanda ne puchha taro se" are heart warming. The landscaped locations of Shimla are captivating through some fine cinematography by Ayanaka Bose. Sushmita Sen's costumes are well designed by noted designer Mickey Contractor and resembles to that of Michelle Pieffer in 'I am Sam'. Harry Baweja has a lean period as a producer with his last film 'Karam' bombing at the box office. 'MAHH' too won't find many takers among general audiences.

The film starts on a promising but the second half is lethargic and time consuming. The courtroom dramas have been overstretched. The promising factors being the performances from the actor's fraternity. New find Baby Rucha Vaidya is brilliant with her mind-blowing performance. Ajay Devgan has been a competent actor for years and he maintains his positive work. Esha Deol has improved her looks and performance, but is completely neglected in the film. Sushmita Sen is undoubtedly the winner with her brilliant dramatic presentation. Harry Baweja disappoints as director after delivering super hit 'Qayamat'. Coincidentally, 'Qayamat' was also an inspirational lift from Hollywood's blockbuster 'The Rock'.

'MAHH' can be applauded for kind and benevolent theme that was not properly conceived. Harry Baweja deserves all the accolades for attempting to be different when every second film is riding on the sex wave. It may be understood that if the story and the screenplay have dents then it becomes difficult for the film to fare well at the box office. The film lacks the narrative niche -- the most important ingredient of a perfect family entertainer. The film can be termed as a "decent Hollywood copycat" that will find few takers.

Info # 52

This Info is from “www.indiafm.com”


* Production Round-up

By Taran Adarsh, May 06th, 2005 - 0930 hrs IST

“UNDER-PRODUCTION FILMS”

# ‘EK SE MERA KYA HOGA’ POST-PRODN.

The post-production work of Moving Frames’ EK SE MERA KYA HOGA has commenced. Presented by Shagun Film Creations, produced by Uttam Jain and directed by T.L.V. Prasad, the film stars Samir Kochhar, Payal Rohatgi, Tanvi Varma, Mallika, Sangeeta Tiwari, Lavy Rohatgi, Rishika, Razzaq Khan and Bobby Darling. Music: Gunwant-Raj.

# ‘SAATHI’ DUBBING IN PROGRESS

The dubbing of Dreamcraft Productions’ SAATHI – THE COMPANION is in progress at Satyam Shivam Studio. Directed by Faaiz Anwaar, the film stars Divvij Kak, Sameer Ali Khan, Rupa Dutta, Anchal Anand, Alok Nath, Beena, Tiku Talsania, Gajendra Chauhan, Razzaq Khan and Raja Kapse. Music: Nikhil-Vinay.

# ‘CHANCHAL’ SHOOTING COMPLETED

The entire shooting of Indra Films P. Ltd.’s CHANCHAL has been completed. The film has been shot in Shimla, Kufri and other locations of Himachal Pradesh. Produced by Mukesh B. Tandon and directed by Inderjit, the film stars Gracy Singh in the central role. Music: Kuldeep Singh. Writer: Armaan Shahabi.

# RAJA BUNDELA’S CROSSOVER FILM

The filming of director Raja Bundela’s crossover film THAT GAME OF CHESS was completed in a 20-day schedule, till April 23, in U.S.A. The film stars new-find Viresh Mohan, Alok Nath, Christie Hsiao, John Bozeman, Paul Hapeney and Kevin C. Carter. Music: Pallav Pandya and Aman Singh.

# SALIM’S FILM TITLED ‘SUN ZARA…’

Producer Salim’s new film has been titled SUN ZARA… Being made under the banner of Aftab Pictures P. Ltd. and written-directed by Rohit Krishnakant Nayyar, it stars Samir Aftab, Anjana and Mithun Chakraborty. The film is being shot in a 30-day start-to-finish schedule in Ooty. H.M. Ishaque presents the film.

# ‘JAHAN JAAEYEGA, HAMEN PAAEYEGA’ EFFECTS, DUBBING

The effects of L.R.B. International’s JAHAN JAAEYEGA, HAMEN PAAEYEGA have commenced at Sound Kraft. The dubbing and recording of the background music [Nikhil-Vinay] are also in progress. Produced by Dr. Lakhan Sinha and directed by Janmendra Ahuja, it stars Govinda, Sakshi Shivananda, Vinay Anand, Divya Dwivedi, Krishna Abhishek, Kanishka, Kader Khan, Sharat Saxena, Mukesh Rishi, Adi Irani, Razzaq Khan, Jitu Verma, Shankar Singh, Anil Dhawan, Dinesh Higoo and Pushpa Verma. Music: Aadesh Shrivastava.

# ‘PEECHHA’ FINAL SCHEDULE

The final 8-day schedule of M.M.M. Movies’ PEECHHA will begin from May 7 [today] in Mumbai. An item number and climax will be filmed. Cast: Bobby Khan, Neelu, Poornima Singh, Kiran Kumar, Dinesh Hingoo and Tinnu Anand. Producer: Mubin Sheikh. Director: Irfan Chaudhary. Music: Vikram-Shabaab.

# ‘MERI AASHIQUI’ NEGATIVE CUTTING

The negative cutting of Suman Films International and Sidatar Films’ MERI AASHIQUI was performed at the hands of Manoj [of Rauko Labs] on April 29. Produced by Tarang Agrawal and Iqbal Sidatar and written-directed by P. Jeetendra, the film stars Rahul Roy, Manish Mathur, Janki Shah, Mriga Saklani, Gayatri Rawal, Imtiaz Sultaan, Jabeer Ahmed, Aman Sidatar, Himani Shivpuri and Prithvi Zutshi. Music: BCI-Abhijeet and Nishaad Vaidya.

# MAHESH BHATT – RAHUL ROY TEAM UP AGAIN

After AASHIQUI, Mahesh Bhatt has once again teamed up with Rahul Roy for his next venture SHOWBIZ, directed by Mohit Suri.

# ‘RAFTA RAFTA’ BACK FROM LONDON

After completing a 20-day schedule in London on May 1, the unit of Raj Dhariya Entertainments’ RAFTA RAFTA –THE SPEED has returned to Mumbai. Three songs and most of the talkie portions were filmed. Presented by G. Chandrashekhar and directed by Raj Sharma, the film stars Sameer Dharmadhikari, Urmila Rao, Viraj Kumar, Monica Castelino, Sheetal Bedi, Javed Sheikh, Shakti Kapoor and Rahul Roy. Music: Sen Bros.

# ‘SIRFF 5 DIN’ SHOOTING COMPLETED

The entire shooting of Flyieng Horrse Entertainments’ SIRFF 5 DIN has been completed. Cast: Raj Babbar, Nirmal Pandey, new-find Sunil, Mahie Gill, Nayaala S., Nishit Verma, Nidhi Gill, Raju Thakker, Sameer Khan, Prachi Pathak, Himangi Jain, Megha Jhaveri, Nirali Namdev, Rocky, Anuj, Suchi and Ali Khan. Director: V. Menon.

# ‘MOBILE PHONE’ SHOOTING COMPLETED

The entire shooting of Shree Shraddha Films’ MOBILE PHONE was completed on April 30. The film was shot in Pune, Silvasa, Dahanu and Vasai Fort. Produced by Jyoti Addapa and written-directed by Sikender Bhatia, the film stars Saagar, Swati Dasgupta, Sanjeev Tiwari, Anjan Shah, Shammi Chhabra, Divya Sharma, Bobby Kumar and Ruhi. Music: Ghulam Dastgir and Kamran Khan.

# ‘FAMILY’ NON-STOP SHOOTING

Director Rajkumar Santoshi completed the sixth schedule of producer Keshu and A.B. Corporation Ltd.’s FAMILY – TIES OF BLOOD at Film City and Elphinston School. The seventh schedule will commence at National Park, on the set of a police station. Cast: Amitabh Bachchan, Akshay Kumar, Bhumika, introducing Aryeman, Bhavana, Shernaz Patel, Ashok Samarth, Vivek Madaan, Arjun Raj Nirula, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Sunil Grover, Sanjay Singh, Sushant Singh, Gulshan Grover and Kader Khan. Music: Ram Sampat.

# ‘SAUDA’ SHOOTING COMPLETED

Presenter Raju Shah and director Jai Prakash completed the final schedule of Jai Films’ SAUDA – THE DEAL in Dubai, wherein two songs and crucial scenes were filmed. With the completion of this schedule, the entire talkie portions and songs have been canned. Cast: Sanjay Kapoor, Aryan Vaid, Preeti Jhangiani, Suman Ranganathan, Snehal Dhabi, Govind Namdeo, Sayaji Shinde, Shakti Kapoor and Sharad Kapoor. Music: Anand-Milind.

# ‘KOI MERE DIL MEIN HAI’ ON MAY 27

Prime Hi-Tech Studios P. Ltd and director Deepak Ramsay’s KOI MERE DIL MEIN HAI will be released on May 27. Cast: Priyanshu, Dia Mirza, Neha, Rakesh Bapat, Reema, Himani Shivpuri, Amita Nangia, Reeta Bhaduri, Dinesh Hingoo, Gufi Paintal, Imran Khan, Sadashiv Amrapurkar and Kader Khan. Jointly co-produced by Mahesh Kumar and Arjan Das, with Tulsi Ramsay as the production designer, the film has music by Nikhil-Vinay.

# ‘SOUTEN’ DUBBING STARTS

Presenter Tanu Sanjay Agarwal, producer Naveen Tak and writer-director Karan Razdan commenced the dubbing of Silver Productions’ SOUTEN – THE OTHER WOMAN at Sight-N-Sound. Cast: Mahima Chaudhary, Padmini Kolhapure, Vikram Singh, Kiran Rathod, Gaurav Dixit, Shakti Kapoor, Shiva and Gulshan Grover. Music: Anand-Milind.

# ‘MOHABBAT HO GAYI HAI TUMSE’ ON JUNE 3

Producer Satish Khanna’s MOHABBAT HO GAYI HAI TUMSE will be released on June 3. Made under the banner of Satish Khanna Productions, the film stars Sanjay Dutt [sp. app.], Chandrachur Singh, Shamita Shetty, Tinnu Anand, Anju Mahendroo, Rajeev Verma, Rekha Rao, Dinesh Lamba, Vishwajeet Pradhan, Alok Nath and Puru Raaj Kumar. Writer-director: Rishi Talwar. Music: Sanjeev-Darshan. Suresh Bafna and Unistar Multimedia present the film.

# ‘SEHAR’ ON JUNE 10

Choice Films’ SEHAR is slated for release on June 10. Cast: Arshad Warsi, Mahima Chaudhary, Pankaj Kapur, Sushant Singh and Suhasini Mulay. Director: Kabeer Kaushik. Music: Daniel B. George.
The film has been filmed at Lucknow, Kanpur, Benaras and New Delhi. Lucknow has been extensively ‘aerially’ photographed for the first time during the course of the 62-day schedule.
Also, the Indian Railways provided for a special train [Mumbai-Valsad-Mumbai] for 6 days to shoot the action climax.

# ‘MATRUBHOOMI’ IN 6 LANGUAGES

MATRUBHOOMI – A NATION WITHOUT WOMEN will be released simultaneously in six Indian languages – Hindi, Bengali, Telugu, Tamil, Gujarati and Bhojpuri – on June 3. Presented by Boney Kapoor and Sridevi, produced by Punkej Kharbanda, Patrick Sobelman and Nicholas Blanc and directed by Manish Jha, it stars Tulip Joshi, Sushant Singh and Sudhir Pandey.

# SAHARA – PERCEPT’S ‘HANUMAN’

Sahara One Motion Pictures announced the completion of an animation film HANUMAN at a glittering event at Blue Sea, Worli. The tone for the event was set by small children, who welcomed the guests by singing ‘Jai Bajrangbali’. The event was kicked off by a brilliant rendition of a medley from the film, performed by child artist Shravan.
HANUMAN is produced by Percept Picture Company in association with Silvertoons. Animation wiz V.G. Samant has created this 2D film. The luncheon event was attended by producer Boney Kapoor, director Madhur Bhandarkar, actor Mukesh Khanna [who has also lent his voice to the film], singer Sapna Mukherjee and Kailash Kher.

# ‘MERE JEEVAN SAATHI’ ON JUNE 24

Producer Suraj Prakash and director Suneel Darshan’s MERE JEEVAN SAATHI is slated for June 24 release. Made under the banner of Kareena-Sana, the film stars Akshay Kumar, Karisma Kapoor and Amisha Patel. Music: Nadeem-Shravan.

# ‘BHAGMATI’ IN JUNE

Zee Telefilms is all set to release India’s first live-animation feature film BHAGMATI – THE QUEEN OF FORTUNES in June. Presented by Subhash Chandra, the film has been written-directed by Ashok Kaul with Tabu, Milind Soman, Somayajulu and Hema Malini [sp. app.] playing important live characters.
In the film, ‘live’ actors also interact with the animated characters. The animated portion of the film has been created at Zee Institute of Creative Arts [ZICA] Studio. The duration of the film is 2.40 hours with about half of it in animation.
Zee has also plans to tap the international market by going for a global release, according to Ashish Kaul, Vice President, Corporate Communications and Brand Development, Essel Group. Kaul has also been entrusted with the responsibility of marketing and distributing the film. Zee Telefilms is also releasing the film in international territories, including France, Russia and U.K. Music: Vishal Bharadwaj. Cinematography: Thomas Xavier, Sameer Arya and Peter Pereira.
“LAUNCHINGS”

# 'HUM KEH NA SAKE' LAUNCHED

The mahurat of Aasra Films’ HUM KEH NA SAKE was held at Marcella Villa on April 27. Producer Aftab Qureshi sounded the clap, while Jeet R. Goswami, Sangeeta Kapure and Siddhi faced the camera for the mahurat shot. Presented by Surendra Singh Rajput, produced by Aftab Qureshi and written-directed by Rajesh Hans, the film stars Jeet R. Goswami, Sangeeta Kapure, Siddhi, Master Faiz, Shankar Sachdeva, Renu Pandey, Zahid Ali, Javed Rizvi, Sahil, Chhaya Saraswat, Soumyaa Rajput, Ramesh Kalra, Ashok Bajpai, Naushad Lari, Ashok Kumar Beniwal and Chandrika Soni. Cinematographer: Shyamal Chakraborty. Lyrics: Nawab Aarzoo, Anwar Sagar, Farman Firozabadi and Mehtab Kampuri.

# SUHAIL AHMED TO DIRECT

Romi Creations have announced their maiden venture, which will be presented by Suman Films International and Sidatar Films. To be directed by Suhail Ahmed, it will star new-find Sagar in the lead. Story-concept: Iqbal Sidatar. Music: A.R. Bharadwaj.

# RANGLANI BROS.’ NEW FILM

Ranglani Brothers have signed director K. Ravi Raj, music directors Anand-Milind and lyricist Anwar Sagar for Shalimar International’s Prod. No. 7, to be launched on May 30. Three heroes and three heroines are being finalized.

Info # 53

These Info are from “www.b4utv.com”


* John for Kabul Express?

Noted documentary filmmaker Kabir Khan will make an autobiographical film titled Kabul Express. If reports are to be believed Khan has already signed John Abraham and Arshad Warsi for the film. Naseeruddin Shah is being considered to play a role of an Afghani in the film. Khan described it as a fast paced film that tells the story of two friends who escape from Afghanistan in 48-hours before the Taliban take over the country. The shooting of the film will begin in Ladakh. Khan has plans to shoot in Afghanistan too. Khudagawah, starring Amitabh Bachchan and Sridevi was the last film shot in Afghanistan. “But unlike Khudagawah that glamourised war, my film is going to be real. The Titanic sinks in Kabul and The Taliban Years and Beyond are some of the documentaries made by Khan. He also plans to make who killed Daniel Pearl.


* Dhool revived

Padmalaya Films Dhool starring Sunny Deol in the lead launched last year has been revived. Padmalaya had tied up with a television channel and were to produce the film in a joint venture. But the film never took off. Padamalaya will now be the solo producers the film. Guddu Dhanoa has been roped in as the director. “Yes, the film has been revived and I’m going to direct it,” he said. He adds, “The leading lady has not yet been decided.” Dhanoa has just wrapped up Deodhar Gandhi that stars Sunny Deol.


* Sushmita Sen: The mother she would not be

Sushmita Sen does not want to be Neeti Khanna. Neeti Khanna who, you wonder? Well, that’s the name of the character that she is playing in Harry Baweja’s Main Aisa Hi Hoon. So why does Sush never want to be Neeti Khanna? Says she, “She is a bad mother. She neglects her child! She is too obsessed with herself. I never want to be a bad mother like her. Initially, I did find it a bit difficult to play that role. But later I took it like a challenge. After all, acting is playing what you are not. And Main Aisa Hi Hoon has turned out be a satisfying experience.” Sush is also looking forward to Chingari where she plays a prostitute for the first time. Sush has also begun shooting for Runaway, a film based on a true story about a woman who was given a bravery award by our President.

Info # 54

This Info is from “www.bollyvista.com”


* Has 'Kaal' really created a 'dhamaal'?
By Joginder Tuteja ©2005 Bollyvista.com

.....Kaal is a Hit!
.....No, Kaal is a flop!
.....Kaal is money earning for producers but a losing proposition for distributors!
.....Arrey nahi...picture bahaut loss mein gayi!
.....Picture class hai!
.....Movie is a loser everywhere!
......................and there are one thousand more comments floating around within one week of its release!

And I thought that gossips were restricted to aunts in my friendly neighborhood! Never before has such a noise revolved around the outcome of a biggie in recent times, as has been done for Dharma Productions' 'Kaal'. Did I say Dharma Productions? Exactly! And that's 'exactly' the reason why this kind of noise. If only 'Kaal' would have been a movie by a lesser name, it would have been termed as an ideal popcorn weekend flick. But alas, that wasn't the case to be. Why? Because a man called Karan Johar took a conscious decision to do something different from his earlier work (KKHH, K3G, KHNH) that has collectively done business of more than 100 crores. Heeding to his fans' encouragement who wanted him to break the formula to do something "different" (Oh how much the industry loves this word), he took a bold step to invest 12-13 crores in a movie that broke all the rules.

To start with, it had a debutant director (Soham) at the helm of a horror movie (a genre that is still in its infancy in Bollywood - save for an occasional 'Bhoot'). Next, the horror revolved around a bunch of tigers (three to be precise) and not a 'bhoot-voot-pret-pishaach'. OK, so I do have a grudge here myself, as Soham did manage to bluff the audience (till a week before the movie's release) into believing that 'It's all about loving your tigers' when in reality - maazra kuch aur hi tha! Smart campaigning around the supernatural angle ensured that the audiences started looking at the film a bit differently, or rather different things!

The movie hit the screens and what one witnessed were houseful boards (OK, agreed that multiplexes do not have boards, they have digital displays) all over. With 8-10 shows a day per multiplex, the cashier couldn't have been busier. The trend continued at least for the first three days but some fortune tellers (including my friendly neighborhood aunt) were busy spinning their own tale - "Hey listen, don't go for the movie! Isme naa woh Karan Johar waali baat nahi hai"! And what I say is, "Hello Switzerland! Here I come. And along with me my three tigers! And Ajay Devgan! And the spirit! And some glycerin! Now, let's get down to the scary business." And if you want to see some romance, I also have Lara and Esha tucking along. Chiffon sarees anyone?

Comments as rubbish as 'Kaal' being an "emotionless movie" makes one wonder how could you make the three tigers smile at the jungle intruders. And if you thought screaming and shrieking wasn't so very necessary throughout the 120 minutes duration, my suggestion would be - 'Just try spending 60 minutes all alone in a zoo in the middle of the night and then we’ll talk!' Another round of complaint revolves around the supernatural angle. "Hey, how come the spirit let the tourists go scot-free? And vice versa." Folks, weren't you the same to complain that 'Vaastu Shastra' battle between the spirits and human was uncalled for? Or for argument sake, even in 'Hawa' (starring Tabu).

And now when the director has let the spirit wander around in peace with the heroes not taking any 'panga' or indulging into any 'herogiri', and just concentrating on making a hasty exit from the jungle, we are still grumbling. "But how about the songs? They come only at the beginning and the end." Hello, last time a song came in the midst of a narrative, didn't you first go out for a smoke break? And then announced all over the town that the director doesn't know his job well! "Bina baat ke gaana daal diya!"

Fine, so Karan Johar never proclaimed 'Kaal' to be the best horror movie ever made (Know what, the makers of 'Naina' are!). It was always meant to be a thriller that would scare you, keep you interested in the proceedings and give you two hours of entertainment. This is exactly what it does! But if a few gossiping aunts want to consciously giggle during the scary moments to avoid any embarrassment, blame it on them and not the makers. After all, the houseful boards (Yeah I remember - even the digital displays!) are still intact and cool dudes are busy thronging the theatres.

Forget about the aunts’ stray gossipmongers.
Forget about whether 'Kaal' is massy or classy.
Forget about whether it is making money for the producers or the distributors [Apun ko kya!]

'Kaal' is not the greatest case study on Indian cinema. But the scares, tigers and the spirit are worth the money spent!

About the author: An IT guy by profession, 1977 born Joginder Tuteja loves to hear, see and write about Bollywood. Having watched more than 2000 movies in his short life span so far, he charms himself in hearing every music album and watching every movie that releases in Bollywood. He believes that there is no entertainment industry that can beat the Hindi movie industry. Completely fascinated by the moving images on the silver screen, he dabbles in writing and loves doing previews, reviews and features that appear on numerous websites and newspapers. Have a thought to share? You can contact him by clicking “Here”.

Interview # 23

This Interview is from “www.indiafm.com”


* Interview: Esha Deol

“I've grown a lot as an actor”- Esha
By IndiaFM News Bureau, May 05th, 2005 - 0930 hrs IST

Lack luster career in initial years and lost in the crowd of flops dream girl Jr. Esha Deol rediscovered herself in Dhoom. Uninhibited, sassy and assertive Esha's phase II is a whiff of fresh air. Soon after playing a suave wildlife photographer in Kaal she plays a lost and confused girl in Main Aisa Hi Hoon…more from the lady herself in this one on one.

Q. Lets speak about Main Aisa Hi Hoon and your role in the film?
A. Main Aisa Hi Hoon is a very simple, very emotional film. I would like to tell people to watch it with their heart instead of their brains. My role is of a girl called Maya who is a very mysterious character, you feel that you know her and then suddenly you don't know her at all. She herself doesn't know what she is going to do in future. She is into hippie culture, in search of spiritualism; she is little into the wilder side.

Q. There is a hint of Bohemianism in you character, who thought of this?
A. It was in the script that this girl is a bohemian kind of a girl. Because the background that was given to me about this girl was that she is not happy with her father, she doesn't have a mother, she has left her father's home in search of spirituality, so she's into the flower power culture.

Q. You've worked with Ajay before, how was the experience this time?
A. My experiences working with Ajay have always been nice, when I give a shot with him in front of the camera I don't have to act I just let myself be, because he is such a great actor that I only have to react to what he does.

Q. Harry Baweja is a seasoned filmmaker, how do you think he has handled this film?
A. The whole film was shot in 35 days in Shimla at a stretch it is a very simply shot film but the cameraman Bose has done a very good job. It is a very beautifully shot film; Harry knew exactly what he wanted me to do in every scene, which made life simpler for me. I feel the film has shaped up well because it is very much like I heard in the script.

Q. What do you think of the music of the film?
A. The songs in this film are awesome and my favourite is my solo song called 'Teri Galiyon Se'.

Q. What is so special about this role?
A. It's a very different role, it is very bold, very youth oriented role and a lot of people will identify with it. Of late this hippie culture seems to have comeback so people will identify with it.

Q. Ajay and your chemistry has worked quite well in Yuva, do you think it will work the same in future?
A. I hope so. Because this is a very unique chemistry we get to see onscreen, there is an age difference between us. People feel I am a young girl and he is more mature, more of a man. So people get to see this girl-man chemistry and maybe it looks strange but nice at the same time.

Q. Since Koi Mere Dil Se Pooche to this date how much have you grown as an actor?
A. I've grown a lot as an actor, we learn everyday. Not just me but every actor when goes to the sets in the morning learns something new when they go back home.

Interview # 24

This Interview is from “www.santabanta.com”


* Interview: Priyanka Chopra

“I am extremely shy: Priyanka”

Priyanka Chopra says at long last things have fallen into place for her, with several hit films under her belt and more plum assignments on the way.

"It's true. There are talks for some really prestigious projects with some of the best directors. I feel as though everything has fallen into place for me when earlier things seemed to be going wrong," Priyanka tells in an interview.

"When I joined films I wasn't really showered with plum assignments. The industry was quite cynical about another beauty queen coming in. I don't blame them."

"Waqt" is Priyanka's fourth success with Akshay Kumar.

"Of course, I'm elated by the success of 'Waqt'. It's a film that's very dear to my heart. I had cried when I heard the script. And I'm laughing now when it has succeeded. It's very rare for a star-pair to have so many successful films together. I guess it is destiny and luck."

She's just returned from Manali after a long spell of shooting for Rakesh Roshan's "Krish". And Priyanka, currently slated to be Bollywood's next numero uno, can't stop raving about the experience.

"It was like a picnic. In fact more fun than a picnic! Because we were enjoying ourselves while working! There's so much to learn from just watching the father and son at work. Rakeshji knows what he wants. As for Hrithik, I learnt a few lessons in dedication, focus and hard work from him.

"Just watching him at work is so inspiring. Yup, all in all, this was one of my best outdoor shootings ever. And I love my role in 'Krish'; I play a free-spirited, outgoing girl. It's a fun person. I love playing that."

Career-wise the past year has been a blast year for Priyanka.

"I guess 'Mujhse Shaadi Karogi' and 'Aitraaz' have put in what's known as an enviable position. I'm walking very, very carefully. I don't want to make any wrong moves. I know it's not in my hands to choose a winner. But I'm learning to be very discreet.

"At the moment I've two films ready for release, 'Yakeen' and 'Barsaat'. I'm working on 'Krish'. After that I've said 'yes' to writer Rumi Jaffrey who turns director. His film will co-star Salman and me. Rumi is a terrific writer. I'm dying to see what kind of film he makes.

"That apart, I'm committed to doing Subhash Ghai's film to be directed by Satish Kaushik some time during this year. But that's it. I've kept the whole of next year free for assignments that would creep up on me."

And creeping up, they certainly are. Some of the finest filmmakers in the country are bracing themselves for the Priyanka experience.

The past year hasn't been easy for Priyanka, what with her former secretary trying every trick to bring her to heel.

"I've learnt to trust only my own judgement and my immediate family which is always there to guide me. Beyond them I've a few friends I lean on. That's it. Otherwise I'm a very private person, almost a loner. And contrary to my image I'm extremely shy about reaching out."

Interview # 25

This Interview is from “www.santabanta.com”


* Interview: Yash Chopra

“Pakistanis loved Veer-Zaara: Yash Chopra”

Q: A section of the Indian press claimed that Pakistanis were upset with your film Veer-Zaara?
A: I’ve no clue where that came from. When I attended the lunch for the Pakistani delegation at Rashtrapati Bhavan recently, I was amazed at the positive comments about Veer-Zaara.

When the Pakistani President’s chief of staff praised the film, I asked him why Pakistan hadn’t release the film there if he found it so praiseworthy. He said there was opposition from radical sections. But I’m confident that the doors between the two countries will open very soon.

Q: Do you think Veer-Zaara could’ve started movie trade between the two countries?
A: There are some things in life that need to happen but take time. Friendship between the two countries is one such thing. At the lunch at Rashtrapati Bhavan, I felt a very positive attitude among the Pakistani delegates.

Unki neeyat bahut saaf thi. We’ve reason to be optimistic about the relations between the two countries and for the future of Hindi cinema in Pakistan. Let’s hope for the best.

Q: Veer-Zaara seems to have become bigger outside India than within the country…
A: When I went with the movie to Berlin, there were people weeping in the theatres. Now we’re releasing a German dub of the film. As for its fate in India, it was the biggest hit of 2004.

It did Rs 25 crore worth of business overseas and a little more in India. I guess people have made Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge the benchmark of success for a Yashraj film. That’s something that will not happen again.

Q: You recently announced your retirement from awards. Does that mean you won’t direct any more?
A: I’ll continue to direct films until the day I die. During the awards this year, I was constantly asked how it felt to be nominated for the best director award along with youngsters like Farhan Akhtar, Ashutosh Gowariker, Farah Khan and Kunal Kohli.

They are as old as my children. I thought to myself, it’s high time I step aside. That doesn’t mean I’ll give up directing films. I’d like to die with my boots on.

Q: In the meanwhile Yashraj Films continues to produce box office hits.
A: We’re blessed. On May 27, we will release our new production Bunty Aur Babli just after Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge will complete 500 weeks on May 13. It’s unheard of in the film industry!

But before that, I’ve got Kaal coming up. Karan’s (Johar) film is my film. He’s like my son. Then there’s Dhoom 2 with Hrithik Roshan, Aishwarya Rai, Abhishek Bachchan, Bipasha Basu and Uday Chopra, which start in June and Kunal Kohli will start another project with Aamir Khan and Kajol in August.

Q: And your son Aditya?
A: I can’t say what he’ll make. But he’ll start his film this year.