Info # 85

These Info are from “www.aishwarya-forever.com”


* “Doing the Can Can”
by: Harneet Singh
- expressindia.com

This week when Aishwarya Rai walked the red carpet at the 58th Cannes Film Festival 2005 in a black Gucci gown, she wasn’t taking any chances.

Rai’s four-year-old association with Cannes has been mired in bad dress press. The memories of her 2003 wardrobe disaster, when she was on the Cannes jury, are still fresh.

Rai’s wisened up. But then, you can hardly go wrong with black.

"Hey, it’s all been fabulous as usual," she tinkles from the South of France. While Ash regular Neeta Lulla had designed a black saree, complete with black Swarovski, Rai has decided to stick with Gucci and Armani.

In a first for an Indian actor, Rai delivered the festival’s inaugural speech along with Alexander Payne, the director of the Oscar-winning Sideways. "That was an absolute honour. I have no words to describe what I am feeling," she says.

Rai happily narrates how she’s been embraced by Cannes regulars. "Yeah, they tell me that I am family now," she smiles. But if you think Rai’s all gushy, you’ll be surprised. For one, she can’t fathom why she’s being targetted for her pronunciation of Cannes. "I don’t know what’s the big deal. It’s pronounced as Can, for sure," she grumbles.


* “Ash: Samyukta with whoever is first”
by: Subhash K. Jha
- mid-day.com

Period movies are suddenly big. Every filmmaker seem eager to take on the epic mantle. While Ketan Mehta’s Mangal Pandey is on its way, Ashutosh Gowariker has also announced his intentions of making Akbar-Jodha next.

But the most interesting historical epic is yet to come. It’s the one based on the romance between the Rajput emperor Prithviraj Chauhan and his ladylove Samyukta.

Two prominent filmmakers, Raj Kumar Santoshi (Khakee) and Chandraprakash Diwedi (Pinjar), want to bring the same epic to the big screen. And they both want to cast Aishwarya in the female lead.

Explains Rai, "Santoshiji and I almost did Prithviraj-Samyukta. But then we zeroed in on another project, Saamna, which we’re starting later this year."

"But Prithviraj-Samyukta is very much on, though not necessarily with Santoshiji."

"Dr. Chandraprakash Diwedi wanted to make a movie on the same subject and was adamant to do Prithviraj-Samyukta with me. I told him I was ethically committed to Santoshiji for the subject. He said, 'Dono kar lo.'"

"But why should two good filmmakers make the same film? The core personality of the historical figure gets diluted in the duplication."

And she has a point.

This is exactly what happened with Santoshi and Guddu Dhanoa’s biopics on Bhagat Singh.

"The whole idea gets lost in superficial comparisons. I spoke to both directors and we’ve decided I’ll play Samyukta for whoever makes the film first. Both agreed that only one of them would make the film."

"This was a settlement worked out among the three of us. Both Rajji and Chandraprakashji have done ample research and are ready to share their knowledge with each other."

So who will finally make this prestigious costume epic? We wager our bets on Dr Diwedi.

Santoshi is currently busy with Family, featuring Amitabh Bachchan and Akshay Kumar. After that, he goes straight into Saamna with Aishwarya Rai, Ajay Devgan and Akshay Kumar. Thereafter, he’s working on another film with Devgan.

The kind of discipline, dedication and focus required for an immense project like Prithviraj-Samyukta can be found only in a filmmaker with one assignment on hand.

After proving himself in the time-recall ambience of Pinjar, Dr Chandraprakash Diwedi would probably wangle the prized project.

But there’s only one person who has the most to gain from this battle royal: be it Santoshi or Diwedi, Ash wins both ways.

Q. Who is Samyukta?
A. Samyukta, the princess of Kanauj, married Rajput king Prithviraj Chauhan after he won the battle of Tarain. She is describes by historians as “having thick, black hair and eyes like the black bee moving in the petals of the white lotus”.

There are numerous poems and scriptures written about the passion of their romance. However, their marriage was shortlived, as soon after that, the Mughal invader Muhammed of Ghori challenged Prtihviraj and defeated him.

There are numerous versions of what exactly happened after that. Some say Samyukta was raped by Ghori and she committed suicide as she couldn’t bear the shame. Others say she died a natural death.


* “Will Sunny win the race?”
by: Taran Adarsh
- indiafm.com

A lot has been written about the movies that Rajkumar Santoshi and Dr. Chandraprakash Dwivedi are planning to make on the life and times of Prithviraj Chauhan. But while Santoshi is busy with FAMILY - TIES OF BLOOD and SAAMNA, Dr. Chandraprakash has gone ahead and arranged finance for his magnum opus.

“We are all set to roll in September,” Dr. Chandraprakash informs me, quashing rumors that the film wouldn't take off this year since the scripting is incomplete, “I am ready with the hardbound script [penned by Dr. Chandraprakash himself, with dialogues by B.M. Vyas, Vipul Mehta and Dr. Chandraprakash].”

To be filmed in Rajasthan in India and also in Russia, there's a strong possibility that the film will be made in two languages simultaneously -- Hindi and English. “We should proudly show our heroes to the world,” Dr. Chandraprakash states.

The cast, as of now, is still uncertain. “Sunny Deol will of course head the cast, but the remaining actors are still being considered. We might opt for international actors for certain roles though,” he enlightens. There's talk that Dr. Chandraprakash had approached Aishwarya Rai for the film. “Yes, I did have a meeting with her. I also suggested that she can work in both the projects [RKS, Dr. Chandraprakash]. There's a possibility that she might be a part of our film,” he adds.

But the startling development is that Dr. Chandraprakash has decided to meet his 'opponent', Rajkumar Santoshi, before he commences filming of the film. Why? “He's a brilliant director who does extensive research on a project before he commences shooting. It's always better to interact with learned people, exchange ideas, keep oneself abreast of what's happening around,” Dr. Chandraprakash maintains.

Meanwhile, well-known director Anand Mahendroo is involved in the project in the capacity of the completion guarantor. “I've to ensure that the film is made in right time, right cost and right quality,” Anand tells me.

Info # 86

These Info are from “www.aishwarya-forever.com”


* “Shahrukh heads cricket team for IIFA weekend”
- radiosargam.com

Bollywood is going cricket crazy during this year’s IIFA Weekend, which takes place in Amsterdam. The event will feature the IIFA Foundation Celebrity Cricket Match. Some of the best cricketing and celebrity talent from India and the Netherlands will comprise the two teams, with Shah Rukh Khan and Suniel Shetty leading the two teams as captains.

Shah Rukh’s team includes the likes of Aishwarya Rai, Preity Zinta, Saif Ali Khan, Sanjay Dutt, Urmila Matondkar, David Dhawan, Isha Koppikar, John Abraham, Mahima Chaudhary and Shahid Kapoor.

Meanwhile, Sunil Shetty’s team will feature Hrithik Roshan, Abhishek Bachchan Amitabh Bachchan, Vivek Oberoi, Anil Kapoor, Arbaaz Khan, Dino Morea, Diya Mirza, Esha Deol, Fardeen Khan, Kareena Kapoor, Ritesh Deshmukh and Shilpa Shetty.


* “IIFA Amsterdam set to rock”
- indiantelevision.com

The Samsung IIFA Awards Amsterdam to be held on June 11th, 2005 will see performances by the popular stars of Indian cinema including Salman Khan, Abhishek Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai, Kareena Kapoor and Suneil Shetty.

Vidhu Vinod Chopra's Parineeta will be premiered as the IIFA World Premiere in Amsterdam on June 9th, 2005.

The award extravaganza, one of the main highlights of the IIFA Weekend will be held in the presence of a global audience including dignitaries from the world of cinema like Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Yash Chopra, A.R.Rahman, Javed Akhtar, Shabana Azmi, Vivek Oberoi, Kareena Kapoor, Kajol, Ajay Devgan, Urmila Matondkar to name a few. Other guests would include stalwarts from the world of business, politics and sports.

While Samsung has committed itself to sponsorship of the Samsung IIFA Awards for the third successful year, this year's IIFA celebrations will be broadcast across the world by the Star TV network via satellite. Star TV viewers can experience the IIFA journey over multiple programmes that cover the various events and interactions in Amsterdam and the Best of IIFA over the past five years.

Much-admired film star Abhishek Bachchan will take the stage for his first-ever international performance at the spectacular Samsung IIFA Awards night at the magnificent Amsterdam ArenA. Over 10,000 people will witness a spectacular show by the best of the Indian Film Industry. The celebrated Shiamak Davar will choreograph these breath-taking performances, states an official release.

The IIFA Weekend and all IIFA events are conceptualized, produced and directed by Wizcraft International Entertainment, one of the world's leading entertainment agencies. As always, this year too the Samsung IIFA Awards will be celebrating the Superstars of Indian Cinema and paying tribute to the stalwarts from the Indian silver screen.

For the first time, IIFA will host the FICCI-IIFA Global Business Forum at Expo XXI and an IIFA Film Festival. The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) have come together with IIFA to promote the globalisation of Indian Cinema across the globe. The Forum will be a place for shared synergies, ideation and new business opportunities between India and the Netherlands. Topics of discussion at the forum will be Cinema & entertainment, Civil Aviation, Commerce & Industry and Tourism. Speakers at the forum would be government officials, policy makers and industry stalwarts from both nations, the release adds.

Global Indian Cinema fans can vote for and help their favourite film stars to win an IIFA award this year. Lucky winners will be able to travel to Amsterdam and witness the Samsung IIFA Awards. The nominations for the Popular Awards are now open for public voting, using the globally accessible IIFA @ MSN and Indya.com platforms. The voting process is monitored and audited by PriceWaterhouseCoopers, who are also the audit firm for the Oscars.

Info # 87

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


* “Cannes candy with Ash”
by: Sunaina Kumar
- economictimes.com

In 2002, it was for the screening of Devdas. In 2003, it was as a jury member. In 2004, it was a blink-and-you-miss her appearance as a brand ambassador.

In all these years, Ash's fashion statement at Cannes drew varying measures of criticism...but the faux pas are history now.

Ash's wardrobe at Cannes 2005 gets the thumbs up from desi fashionistas. So, what explains the metamorphosis?

# THE CONFIDENCE QUOTIENT:

This time round, in what is her fourth consecutive appearance at Cannes, Ash comes across as a different individual altogether.

"That's because she is an international star now. She has finally made that crossover and the confidence of having done it is apparent. In any case, Ash's style quotient has been underrated. She's so beautiful that she looks a star no matter what she wears," says designer Monisha Jaisingh.

Adds fashion analyst Rajiv Goyal, "Ash appears to be confident about her understated style. This year, she is not trying to make an impression and everything seems effortless. Unlike her previous trysts at Cannes, she hasn't overdone anything, nothing appears contrived."

# GLOBALLY HAUTE LABELS:

As designer Rina Dhaka says, Ash is consciously wearing "international designer "wear." As the brand ambassador for two important companies, Ash is a recognised face in France.

This time at Cannes, she seems to have made a concerted effort to look European and very international. Keeping in mind her crossover status, that's appropriate."

# INTERNATIONAL INDIAN IMAGE:

Being the face of India at Cannes, should Ash have made a typically Indian statement there? Rina disagrees. "One can be Indian by intent. Ash, being a liberated modern woman and a global citizen, doesn't have to validate her Indianness by wearing traditional Indian garments."

Adds designer Malini Ramani, "Ash is glamorous and an international star.She carries the international look well.Why does she have to wear Indian attire? Fashion is about wearing what looks good on you."

# ANALYSE THIS:

Aishwarya's first appearance at Cannes was in a black evening gown which, according to designer JJ Valaya, made a chic style statement.

"The neckline was trendy and her makeup was minimalistic. She carried the dress with aplomb. However, the back of the dress could have had more detailing. Knowing that cameras would capture her from all sides,Ash should have thought of this."

The floral printed dress Ash wore for the screening of Woody Allen's Match Point, says Monisha,"is very spring-summer and worked well on her." Valaya, though, feels "the dress was a little laidback; maybe the occasion demanded it, but she could have been more dressy."

Interview # 38

This Interview is from “www.bollywoodworld.com”


* Interview: Aishwarya Rai

'I seem to know nothing about how to woo the press here'
Subhash K Jha | May 18, 2005

Aishwarya Rai, last seen wowing the Cannes crowds, is feeling on top of the world.

In a candid interview, Rai, one of India's prettiest international exports, spills the beans on getting Oprah Winfrey into a sari, and more. Excerpts:

Q. You made Oprah wear a sari on her talk show!
A. Yes, I was extremely happy to be on her show. I absolutely admire her. I never thought I'd actually be meeting her -- and that too, on her show! It's so strange. But prior to our meeting, during my visit to the US for the premiere of Bride & Prejudice, I had some afternoons off. And I watched Oprah. I thought how wonderful it would be to be on her show. And within a month, I was!

She put me in the Woman Of The World section. Her very efficient team did all the spadework within no time. The procedure was meticulous. On the evening of the Bride & Prejudice premiere, they did a quick interview. The next day, I rushed to Chicago to record with Oprah.

Q. And the sari?
A. I thought I'd wear one on the show, and packed two of them, in case Oprah wanted to wear one too. As luck would have it, my flight was delayed and I reached minutes before the show went on air! So I had no time to change, which is a pity. Americans love the garment but have no clue how it's tied.

Oprah is very respectful and appreciative of all cultures. She was very curious about the sari. And I helped her put it on, on air! She has sent me an autographed picture saying, 'Next time we change the blouse.' She was very sweet.

Q. Did she ask penetrating questions?
A. That's her. She's very direct. She asked me about skin-whitening products and the penchant for changing one's skin tone. I told her how everyone wants to experiment with skin colour, hair, everything. Being on a show like Oprah, representing your country, is a big responsibility. I answered for myself and not on behalf of the industry.

Even when I was asked by Oprah about Indian women in general, I was very careful because I live in a city. The core of India lives in less urban areas. There are so many different faces of Indian women. If we identify the Indian prototype as a woman with large black eyes, long black hair, and a graceful sari, then I don't fit!

During the Miss World pageant, there was an objection to my looks, saying that I didn't fit into the Indian prototypes. When I was joining movies, my light eyes and fair skin have been seen as impediments. For a long time, my looks were seen not suitable for Indian cinema.

Q. You've been accused of being coy on questions of sexual mores and even kissing....
A. Again, I'm very clear -- I speak for myself. I've never said I'd never kiss, or whatever on screen. I've always maintained I'd cross that bridge when I come to it. Again, I'm accused of playing it safe. The truth is, I don't know what tomorrow holds. So I can't make a close-ended principle about it.

When a song from one of my films, Kucch Na Kaho, was shown on Oprah, I realised everyone out there assumes a song is a substitute for a kiss in our films. That image of coyness about our movies exists long before me. I keep saying, on all my interviews abroad, that things are changing in our cinema, though very slowly.

I do know that the peck has become a familiar sight in our films, and I don't have qualms in saying so. Still, if people think I'm a prude in my pronouncements, what can I do? I'm definitely not judgemental about different kinds of films being made in our country. As long as there's an audience for them, there will be different kinds of films.

Q. Are you heading out to Hollywood?
A. Every time I'm asked if I intend to go to Hollywood, I insist I'd do films there just as I've done two Tamil films (Iruvar and Kandukondain Kandukondain) and acted in Bengali (Chokher Bali). There is no dearth of tempting offers at home.

I've always said I don't wish to speak about assignments until they're finalised. I hope filmmakers notice how respectful I've been to their projects, even when things haven't worked out. Many major projects have gone to other actresses, and people don't even know I had been approached for them.

Q. What else is coming up these days?
A. Raj Kumar Santoshi's Saamna. Rajji and I wanted to work together from the time I entered films. The first script he narrated to me was finally made as Dil Hai Tumhara by Kundan Shah, with Preity Zinta. Then we continued discussing projects.

I loved Lajja, and would've loved to be in it, but there was a date issue. We had decided I'd appear as Sita in a Ramayan episode in Lajja. Then he decided not to shoot it.

Finally, I just had to do Khakee! Rajji has so many ideas. We almost did a costume drama, Prithviraj Samyukta. We're now doing Saamna which is a very topical subject. It starts in the latter-half of the year. So Saamna or Dhoom 2 will be my next two releases. Dhoom 2, with Hrithik Roshan, starts in June.

Q. You attended the party for Time magazine's 100 most influential people in New York...
A. People are so busy playing up my so-called boring image. But yes, I did attend the Time party for achievers in New York. I flew down for four days, attended the event, and also did a photo-session for an American magazine before coming back home.

Q. So how was the Ash-Bash in New York?
A. Ash bash? Ash-bashing is what's going on constantly over here! Someone asked me why I'm politically correct, even when people hit out so openly at me. But the truth is, I've never been brought up to behave any other way. I can't say anything hurtful about anyone. I just don't believe in saying mean things. I won't feel good doing that. It's strange why being well-behaved is perceived as being too 'propah' and staid. This is the way I am.

I'm amazed how many people feel good hitting out at me. They're welcome to do it. Earlier, they had more leeway to deny their indiscretions in print. But now on television they look pretty ridiculous denying what they say.

Q. You're constantly travelling these days!
A. I know! But I do manage to catch four-five hours of sleep, plus a movie on international flights, so I like flying. It's the only time when I'm on my own.

Q. As long as your feet remain planted on earth.
A. Koi shaq?(Any doubts?) I had actually just flown in from London, done my ads for Lux and Nakshatra and then gone to New York, and I didn't regret the exhausting travel schedule!

Attending the Time event was great. To be in such fine company was humbling. I always feel proud to represent my country at any international event. I love to wear a sari and look Indian. Because I am! In all my interactions abroad, I'm perceived as representing my country, and not just as an actress.

Q. As an actress, you've just begun to be recognised abroad.
A. Why now? Even as far as Devdas, I was recognised for my acting. Critics abroad gave me very good reviews for Devdas, Kucch Na Kaho, Chokher Bali and Raincoat.

Q. Director Andy Tennant claims that he had offered you the lead in Hitch.
A. Did he? He re-wrote the role. When I first heard the script, I too wanted it rewritten. But then things didn't work out. In fact, I'm making no effort to get work in Hollywood. No one seems to pay attention to this fact.

The Indian media has accused me of employing a PR agency to get me work abroad! Actually, I need a PR agency in Bollywood since I seem to know nothing about how to woo the press here!

But seriously, it's good if Indian cinema is being finally taken seriously. Mr (Amitabh) Bachchan was in the US for a festival of his films and was warmly received. Rituparno Ghosh flew down with Chokher Bali and Raincoat in LA. Such a warm response! And Mr Subhash Ghai screened Taal in the US recently, and the audience responded so warmly! It's good to be appreciated for my work. I'm still exploring. I'm still growing as an actress.

Q. What are your international projects?
A. I've just completed Paul Mayeda Berges' Mistress Of Spices. It's a very Indian film, a masala film with a difference. It's about the spices -- their scents and significances. It's being readied either for the Sundance or the Toronto film festival.

And now, there's the shooting of Jagmohan Mundhra's Provoked in a start-to-finish schedule in London. 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.

These aren't routine roles.

But I have never pursued ordinary roles. From the start, I've searched for challenges as an actress. That remains unchanged.

Interview # 39

This Interview is from “www.bollywoodheaven.com”


* Interview: CHUNKEY PANDEY

“CHUNKEY PANDEY BACK WITH A BANG”
By Eye TV India Bureau
Star Chat

Chunkey Pandey is not new though he is back in films after a long gap. His comeback is significant as his two films will release this month. And, these movies are 'Sukh' of Govinda and 'D' of Ram Gopal Verma. Chunkey is very excited as he was called by his costar Govinda in Pahlaj Nihalani's 'Aankhen' to sign him for his home production 'Sukh', and also by Ramu for his 'D'. He remembers that 'Aankhein' had created a hangama during those days. He is also excited as Ramu whom he considers as the best filmmaker in the industry, invited him and signed for 'D'. He accepted the offer immediately. When asked about his future plan, Chunkey said that he would start shooting Ramu's another titled 'Darwaza Band Karo' in June, besides staging shows in India and outside. We had an encounter with Chunkey Pandey recently.

Excerpts of his encounter:

Q. How come you seem to be very excited?
A. Yes, I am, as two of my movies are being released this month though after a long gap.

Q. What kept you busy all these years?
A. I keep myself busy with stage shows inside and outside the country.

Q. What excites you more?
A. I was too thrilled when Govinda called me to act in his home production 'Sukh'. You should recall that I acted with him some ten years ago in Pahlaj Nihalani's 'Aankhein', starring Govinda. This created a hangama in the industry. Besides, Ramu called me and asked me to act in his 'D'.

Q. What about your roles in these movies? Are they similar?
A. No, both the films have quite different backdrops. 'Aaankhein' was out and out an entertainer, while 'Sukh' is a family drama in all respects. However, the common thing is that both Govinda and I are there. One may get as much sukh (happiness) by watching 'Sukh' as one got from 'Aankhein'.

Q. What about your role in Ramu's 'D'?
A. I cannot tell you more about it. Briefly speaking, I play the character of Raghav who is a gangster.

Q. Isn't it a negative role?
A. No, it's not a negative role. However, it can be described as gray shade though.

Q. What's your experience with Ramu?
A. Ramu has his own style of filmmaking. He is not only a thinker but a thought too. He is capable of taking a risk.

Q. Is 'D'similar to 'Satya' or 'Company'?
A. No. However, the theme may be similar. There is as much difference between 'D' and 'Satya' or 'Company', as has been between 'Satya' and 'Company'.

Q. What are your future plan?
A. I am doing another movie with Ramu. It is titled 'Darwaza Band Karo'. Besides, I am doing stage shows within and outside India.

Q. What's your role in 'Darwaza...'?
A. I play the role of a car driver, whose life changes within two days. We shall start its shooting next month.

Q. How would you describe your career?
A. I am doing less number of movies but with stronger roles.

Q. What type of a role you like most?
A. I prefer any role, negative or positive, provided it's a part of the story.

News # 173

These News are from “www.bollywoodworld.com”


* Karisma Kapoor's marriage on the rocks?
IndiaFm News Bureau
Posted online: Tuesday, May 17, 2005 at 1342 hours IST
Updated: Wednesday, May 18, 2005 at 1157 hours IST

May 17: Another day in Bollywood and another marriage on the rocks. This time the affliction has struck the leading family in filmdom - Kapoors. Actress Karisma Kapoor's marriage to Delhi-based industrialist Sanjay Kapur is on the rocks, reports a national daily.

After the glitzy wedding and the initial honeymoon period ended, things started deteriorating. The actress who had moved to Delhi after her marriage has been in Mumbai since she gave birth to her daughter at the Breach Candy Hospital in March.

A friend of the family claims that the couple has been surviving a tumultuous marriage for a while now, belying Karisma saying she was happy to wed her teenage crush.

The Delhi-Mumbai divide has been too huge a gap for the couple to bridge. It’s been tough for Karisma to quit her career and adjust to the ways of an affluent, industrialist family.


* Malaika advises sister against marriage?
By IndiaFM
Thursday, 19 May , 2005, 10:38

She loves the way marriage is treating her, doesn't she? “Absolutely, I think I am one lucky girl! I have very understanding in-laws” she admits without second thoughts.

But from what has been gathered, the Khans are a conservative lot. So how did she 'fit in'? “Actually, I didn't have to fit-in per se. They are extremely accommodating people. They just accepted me the way I am, which is wonderful” she confesses.


“If I were to be reborn, I would ask for the same family and Arbaaz all over again. But I am not too sure whether God would be so gracious two times over” she says heaping compliments on the Khans.

Then why does she want to keep sister from marriage? “Huh?” Word has it that she has advised Amrita to stay away from marriage. “Why would I ever say that when I personally have a great marriage?

"All I told Ammu was that marriage is a responsibility. And it ties you down somewhere. Once you are married, your decisions affect a lot many people. You got to be careful. Not everybody is Arbaaz who'll let you do your own thing. So I asked her to take a long, hard look at marriage before she walks down the aisle. You don't want to regret later, do you?” the legged beauty explains.

News # 174

These News are from “www.santabanta.com”


* He was ready to share Aishwarya!
Period movies are suddenly big. Every filmmaker seem eager to take on the epic mantle. While Ketan Mehta’s Mangal Pandey is on its way, Ashutosh Gowariker has also announced his intentions of making Akbar-Jodha next.

But the most interesting historical epic is yet to come. It’s the one based on the romance between the Rajput emperor Prithviraj Chauhan and his ladylove Samyukta.

Two prominent filmmakers, Raj Kumar Santoshi and Chandraprakash Diwedi, want to bring the same epic to the big screen. And they both want to cast Aishwarya in the female lead.

Explains Rai, “Santoshiji and I almost did Prithviraj-Samyukta. But then we zeroed in on another project, Saamna, which we’re starting later this year.

But Prithviraj-Samyukta is very much on, though not necessarily with Santoshiji.

Dr Chandraprakash Diwedi wanted to make a movie on the same subject and was adamant to do Prithviraj-Samyukta with me. I told him I was ethically committed to Santoshiji for the subject. He said, “Dono kar lo.”

But why should two good filmmakers make the same film? The core personality of the historical figure gets diluted in the duplication.”

And she has a point.

This is exactly what happened with Santoshi and Guddu Dhanoa’s biopics on Bhagat Singh.

“The whole idea gets lost in superficial comparisons. I spoke to both directors and we’ve decided I’ll play Samyukta for whoever makes the film first. Both agreed that only one of them would make the film.

This was a settlement worked out among the three of us. Both Rajji and Chandraprakashji have done ample research and are ready to share their knowledge with each other.”

So who will finally make this prestigious costume epic? We wager our bets on Dr Diwedi.

Santoshi is currently busy with Family, featuring Amitabh Bachchan and Akshay Kumar. After that, he goes straight into Saamna with Aishwarya Rai, Ajay Devgan and Akshay Kumar. Thereafter, he’s working on another film with Devgan.

The kind of discipline, dedication and focus required for an immense project like Prithviraj-Samyukta can be found only in a filmmaker with one assignment on hand.

After proving himself in the time-recall ambience of Pinjar, Dr Chandraprakash Diwedi would probably wangle the prized project.

But there’s only one person who has the most to gain from this battle royal: be it Santoshi or Diwedi, Ash wins both ways.


* Mallika in Vagina Monologues

Mallika Sherawat has not been to Cannes yet but her penchant for looking West is already obvious.

The motor mouth actress is all set to do a walk-on part in the Centenary show of Mahabanoo Mody Kotwal's Vagina Monologues, which will be staged at Prithvi Theatre.

Earlier done by Marisa Tomei, My Short Skirt, the piece which Mallika is going to perform, will put the Jat actress in the league of Oprah Winfrey, Whoopi Goldberg, Julia Roberts, Jane Fonda and Eve Ensler and Judi Dench who have also done walk-on parts in 'Vagina Monologues' worldwide.

By: Somesh Vasishth


* Aman Verma in Jassi's life!

After a lovely makeover, Jessica Bedi aka Jassi is going through some rough time of her life.

She has been falsely accused of killing Jassi and as if that was not enough trouble for our once ugly duckling, now she faces even bigger menace - public prosecutor Thakral, played by Aman Verma.

Yes, you guessed it right, Thakral makes a grand entry with the help of Mallika (Rakshanda Khan) and Armaan (Apurva Agnihotri) who contacted Thakral to prosecute Jessica.

Verma, however, finds his new role quite interesting and says, "Thakral is greedy for money but quite focused as well. He is completely over-the-top, intelligent, and articulate and thinks he is good at everything. He has achieved a lot and wants more from life.

As for Jassi, we have just one advice, "Start praying girl!".

By: Somesh Vasishth

News# 175

These News are from “www.bollywoodheaven.com”


* BOLLYWOOD STORMS CANNES FILM FESTIVAL
By Eye TV India Bureau
In the News

Bollywood's boldest and sexiest lass Mallika Sherawat has stormed the Cannes Film Festival by her charm. Incidentally, her movie ' The Myth' with Jackie Chan, directed by Sandy, has attracted a wide appreciation. The presence of actress Nandita Das as a member of jury, and those of other top filmmakers like Bobby Bedi, Akbar Khan and Subhash Ghai, have brought Bollywood in the limelight this time round.

Bollywood's top film producers are very excited too as they have found good buyers for their mega budget movies in the international market. Bobby Bedi, producer of 'The Rising', has said that he has found buyers for his yet to release and much-awaited movie based on the life of 1857's rising in India for the freedom of the country led by revolutionary Mangal Pandey. Bobby has announced that he would premiere the movie costing him a huge sum of Rs 750 million on August 15th, the Indian Independent Day, all over the world.

Interestingly, Akbar Khan has also got buyers for his 'Tajmahal' in the international market. Subhash Ghai who is there with his 'Kisna', confesses that the festival is the right place to showcase Bollywood films and Indian culture. He is happy too with the positive response to his movie in the international market. Another Indian highlight there has been the movie based on the life of India's Amritanandmayee Maa. This movie has been directed by a French.


* 'PARINEETA' PREMIERE AT IIFA
By Eye TV India Bureau
In the News

IIFA brand ambassador and star of the millennium Amitabh Bachchan was in New Delhi on Monday to promote IIFA and to announce that 'Parineeta' will premiered at the IIFA this year. Cinematic adaptation of Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay's novel Parineeta, the movie stars Sanjay Dutt, Saif Ali Khan and newcomer Vidya Balan. Ad filmmaker Pradeep Sarkaar has directed it. He also said that the FICCI Frames would join the IFFA's four -day event at Amsterdam. Besides Amitabh, others from Bollywood to join the event would be Salman Khan, Abhishek Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai and Kareena Kapoor. On this occasion, Amitabh also said that the movies would go a long way in bettering the relations between the two neighboring countries - India and Pakistan.

He said, "After all, India and Pakistan are akin to each other in respect of language, culture and heritage. How are we different from each other?" Bollywood movies are more popular than those of Hollywood and 'Shahensha's Amitabh is the most popular actor in Pakistan. The recent news about the Pakistani actress Meera's acting in Soni Razdan's 'Nazar' and Mahesh Bhatt's offer to sign famous cricketer Sohaib Akhtar in his next movie is another significant step towards improving relations between the two countries. Besides films, the IIFA event would include a charity cricket match between celebrities led by Shah Rukh Khan and Suniel Shetty. Though the event will take place in the first week of June, and Star Plus channel will telecast it on July 19th.


* MEGHNA NAIDU: WHY TO DISTANCE FROM EXPOSURE?
By Eye TV India Bureau
In the News

The 'Kaliyon Ka Chaman' girl, Meghna Naidu, is doing a movie 'Husn' on a bold theme. This is being produced by Farha Ahmed, wife of late filmmaker Sultan Ahmed, along with Anoop Shrivastav and Dhirendra Jain. Earlier, Meghna shot to fame in the film industry due to her sexy movies like 'Hawas' followed by 'Classic Dance of Love'. These movies had plenty of sex and maximum exposure. Thus, she became very popular among directors and producers. She has no inhibition about these things. She says, " After all one produces a movie like any other product to sell and earn profit. "

About her next she says, " I am playing an ambitious girl's role who is ready to do anything to achieve her object. Yes, I have exposed in it, but it's not vulgar." She is also acting in Karan Razdan's 'At' in which she has excelled the boldness of 'Hawas' and 'Girlfriend', it is said. However, she denies the allegation that it is full of sex and nudity. "The movie gives due importance to human feelings and relationship. Why should one distance from exposure, she asks?" Besides, she is also doing 'Bekarar'.

News# 176

These News are from “www.bollywoodheaven.com”


* BHATTS' CREATE ANOTHER CONTROVERSY
By Eye TV India Bureau
In the News

The Bhatt camp has created another controversy even though the earlier one involving Pak actress Meera lip locking with Indian actor Asmit Patel in Mahesh Bhatt's movie 'Nazar' hasn't ended yet. The Bhatts are known for creating such controversies. Mahesh Bhatt has announced that in his next venture titled 'Gangster', he will sign the famous Pak fast pace bowler Shoaib Akhtar. He has added that Shoaib fulfills his need for a face that is young and innocent looking like animals. Bhatt says that his next 'Gangster' will be directed by Abnurag Basu and completely shot abroad.

Mahesh also claims that he has not only talked to Shoaib but has persuaded him to act as an absconding criminal in 'Gangster. Mahesh Bhatt claims that Shoaib was initially hesitant but later agreed when he came to know that the role was first offered to Sanjay Dutt who had declined only due to his dates problem. However, reports from sources close to Shoaib inform us that Shoaib has not accepted the proposal. He wants to devote his attention to cricket, which is his first love. Incidentally, Pakistan Cricket Board's chairman Shaharyar Khan has complained to the President of Pakistan General Musharraf against Shoaib for the latter's alleged misbehavior with a woman during his Australia tour.


* BOLLYWOOD'S RS 4000M STAKE THIS SUMMER
By Eye TV India Bureau
In the News

The Hindi film industry has a puzzle before it to solve. The current quarter of the year under review has the film industry's Rs 4000 million at stake. Will it be able to cross the past quarter's barrier of most of the flop films. The summer season is at its peak when the people want to enjoy cool climate of theatres and get entertained. They have high hopes because of the prevailing summer holiday mood among the people and especially in the teacher-taught community. Several good films with top star cast are ready to enter into the fray.

Among them are Rani Mukherjee's best 'Bunty Aur Babli' starring Bachchans, Shah Rukh's home production 'Paheli' and Ravi Chopra's 'Babul'. Besides, director Amol Palekar and Shah Rukh Khan's fates are at stake. Even Urmila Matondkar's horror film 'Naina' is also due for release. Khaled Mohammed's 'Silsilay' has Shah Rukh besides Bhunmika Chawla, Tabu, and K.K. Apart from this, Akbar Khan's 'Tajmahal' starring Manisha Koirala, Pooja Batra and Arwaz Khan, 'Parineeta' of Vidhu Vinod Chopra and Ram Gopal Verma's 'D' will not remain behind in testing their fates this summer.


* MEERA HOPES BETTER INTERACTION
By Eye TV India Bureau
In the News

Soni Razdan was indeed in an adventurous mood. She felt flaterred that the people expected much more from her. She admitted this, and said that she was getting bored and frustrated without doing much. '' I felt that I need to do more than what I have done so far." Soni is very proud that she has achieved her object of completing the movie according to her schedule and within her stipulated budget. This is the first time that she is seen directing a movie though she has shown her acting skill in her husband Mahesh Bhatt's 'Saransh'. Soni is very happy with the Pakistani actress Meera's bold performance in her directorial debut, and presented Meera to the media at a promotional afternoon meet in New Delhi.

Meera too was very excited to be in India again, and wished that her countrymen would realize that whatever she had filmed in 'Nazar' was according to the prevailing culture in her host country. She admitted, "My country's culture is different." (Such like scenes, presumably she referred to liplock with her hero Ashmit Patel, might not suit the atmosphere in her country). "However, I have not crossed the limit," she added.

Regarding her future plan, she said, "Yes, I have a lot of offers, but I am yet to decide on them. I don't want to burden myself." Besides, she said," This is my 'Nazar' (gift) to India! "She clarified her stand on the so called bold and sexy scenes. "I want to create my position in Hindi films on the basis of my acting skill." Thus, she said no to skin to exposure in movies.

She said that she would rather strive for creating a sense of confidence in the artistes of his country by organizing seminars and workshops there.

News# 177

These News are from “www.bollywoodheaven.com”


* 'SHABNAM MAUSI' TO RELEASE IN MADHYA PRADESH ON 17TH
By Aira
In the News

Five years back, it was Pooja Bhatt's film 'Tamanna', which explored the life of a eunuch. Now, it is actor Ashutosh Rana who drapes a saree to portray the real life story of the world's first eunuch-politician. The actor, who insists on speaking in chaste Hindi, is coming back after a break with yet another provocative role in 'Shabnam Mausi'. Ashutosh Rana likes doing things differently. The talented actor is back after a hiatus of sorts, in yet another unusual role; that of a eunuch in his latest film 'Shabnam Mausi'.

"It is life's reality for Shabnam Mausi, who despite belonging to a marginalized class, has been chosen as a leader by mainstream society. This means it is an out and out commercial story," explains Ashutosh. Directed by newcomer Yogesh Bharadwaj, the film attempts to bring out the trials and tribulations in the life of Shabnam Mausi, a transsexual, who stood for Madhya Pradesh state elections in 1999 and won. And for Yogesh this was an achievement in its own right.

"I was very excited after I read about Shabnam Mausi in a newspaper article. In a society dominated by men and women, that a eunuch is elected to power, in itself is an interesting phenomenon." The film,according to Rana, donning war paint for the role was just the easy part. " The best part about the film was that Shabnam Mausi was available for first hand information. Secondly, I read all kinds of literature on eunuchs. Thirdly, I ended up visiting many shanties to see and speak to eunuchs in their natural setting, off guard."

Ashutosh Rana is, however, not new to challenging roles. His flair for playing evil is what got him noticed. So be it a sex-maniac and a murderer in 'Dushman' or the psychopath killer in 'Sangharsh', the unusual roles also got him the Filmfare Award. After trying rather unsuccessfully to shed his bad boy image in films like 'Chot' and 'Pardesi Re', Rana has not been a busy actor lately. "I believe that if you cannot do good work, don't work. Also in today's time networking plays a major role and I am not very good at it," says Ashutosh. 'Shabnam Mausi' also stars actors like Vijay Raaz, Vivek Shauq, Govind Namdeo and others. Made with a budget of about 650,000 US dollars, the film will premiere, not in any of the metros, rather in Madhya Pradesh on the 17th of this month. And for those who love films inspired from a true story, this should certainly be a pick for them.


* DIRECTOR WELCOME, BUT NOT THE HERO
By Eye TV India Bureau
In the News

Director Mahesh Bhatt is happy that his Indo-Pak joint venture ' Nazar' will be the first Indian movie to be premiered in Pakistan on May 29th. However, he is a little upset that his hero Ashmit Patel will be missing the date. The reason is that he has been denied the visa to attend the premiere of his own movie in Pakistan. Bhatt says that actor Ashmit Patel, who co-stars with Pakistani actress Meera in 'Nazar', due to be released on Friday, was refused a visa late on Tuesday. But Pakistani High Commission sources say that they had no reason to deny Patel a visa, adding that Bhatt had approached Islamabad directly for the visas.

Bhatt has said that while he and Soni Razdan, the director of 'Nazar', were given visas, Patel's visa hasn't come so far. ''This is like a body blow to us. It violates the spirit of Indo-Pak friendship." Incidentally, Bhatt is scheduled to meet Pakistani Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz on May 21. Bhatt wonders as to why the Pak authorities are not giving the Indian actor a visa when his Pakistani co-star has been working in India for almost a year now. ''We expected a similar kind of reciprocity,'' said Bhatt. Asmit Patel is also shocked on denial of visa. He says, " India has welcomed Pakistani artistes and cricketers with open arms, surely we deserve better. ''

Pak authorities in India explain that no formal application was made from here. Information for the visas came directly from Islamabad. Perhaps Patel's name was left out of that list submitted to Islamabad then. High Commission officials say they never received any instructions for Patel. The actor has confirmed that he never applied formally. However, he hopes to get the visa soon as Mahesh Bhatt who is meeting Pakistani Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz on May 21, might seek the Pak prime minister's intervention to expedite the issuance of visa to him. He doesn't think that he will fall in the category of such Indian artistes who have not been allowed to perform in Pakistan this year.

News # 178

These News are from “www.aishwarya-forever.com”


* “Mundhra ‘provokes’ Ash into action”
by: Saibal Chatterjee
- hindustantimes.com

Los Angeles-based Indian filmmaker Jag Mundhra is back to doing what, in his own words, he likes the best – making an issue-related film about a woman of substance. Provoked, an Aishwarya Rai-Naveen Andrews-Miranda Richardson-Nandita Das starrer that is currently shooting in London relates the real-life story of Kiranjit Ahluwalia, who killed her abusive husband, was convicted and incarcerated and then, following a long legal struggle, is exonerated.

“The film,” reveals Mundhra, in Cannes for just a single day, “has been in the works for a week now. It will be completed in six weeks.” Based on the book, Circle of Light, co-authored by Ahluwalia herself, the film has Aishwarya playing the protagonist, with Nandita essaying the role of a social activist who helped the former in her fight to vindicate herself. Andrews plays the husband that she was compelled to eliminate from her life – and the world.

Aishwarya, who, according to Mundhra, “is doing a fantastic job”, walked into the film quite by chance. The producer happened to meet her at a social gathering during the London shoot of Paul Mayeda Berges’ Mistress of Spices. The two got talking and when Aishwarya realized what Provoked was all about she expressed a desire to be a part of it. “I met her and everything quickly fell into place,” says Mundhra.

“Aishwarya asked me whether I could wrap up the film in six weeks. I told her I finish all my films in six weeks,” recalls the director. He could afford to be cocky. Jag Mundhra has completed as many as three films in the past year – Backwaters, Natasha and Private Moments, screened in the Cannes Film Market on the second evening of the festival.

Provoked will complete a trilogy of women’s films for Mundhra, Kamla and Bawander being the first two.

In an interesting reversal of roles in Provoked, Mundhra has cast Nandita as “a chain-smoking, hard drinking social activist who lives life on her own terms”. Nandita had played the victim in Bawander. In Provoked, she dons the garb of saviour.

Nandita, busy with her jury duties in Cannes, will head straight for London after the festival for the Provoked shoot. Aishwarya, in Cannes as L’oreal’s brand ambassador who has already put in two red carpet appearances – one on the opening night followed by one the next evening before the screening of Woody Allen’s first film ever to be shot entirely in London, Match Point – heads back to the sets of Provoked after a two-day break.


* “Ash 'provoked' to be tortured wife”
by: Nona Walia
- timesofindia.com

For years Kiranjit Ahluwalia was tortured so inhumanly by her husband that she killed him. Aishwarya Rai recreates the protagonist's story and Nandita Das plays activist. Delhi Times reports from the sets of an upcoming movie on this life less ordinary...

It's 4 pm at north London's Stanmore Street. Ash, playing Kiranjit Ahluwalia, adjusts her dupatta. Action! Naveen Andrews, Ash's husband in the film, is going out to meet his 'white' girlfriend.

Ash pleads with him not to leave because she is pregnant. Naveen pushes her off the staircase... and says: 'Sorry, baby; why do you make me so angry?'

'Cut', screams director Jagmohan Mundra. This is the real-life story of Kiranjit 'provoked'... of a battered woman who killed her husband after being tortured by him for numerous years.

"The power of the film lies in the story," says Mundra.

"The story is about the extraordinary struggle of an ordinary woman to break free from violence. Ash is very professional, works religiously for 14 hours at a stretch, and has blended into the role perfectly."

When Ash heard the story, this was her reaction, "I'd love to give my face to Kiranjit's story. I want the world to know the story of her suffering."

Next week, Mundra will shoot with Nandita Das, who plays an activist in the film. "Nandita was the victim in Bawandar, she's an activist in this movie - a role that comes easily to her. We work well together," says Mundra.

Ash, in turn has undergone a makeover for this role.

"Ash is very glamourous but that is not how Kiranjit is. So, we've given a 1970s look to all the characters. At her wedding, Ash wears a salwar-kameez with a chuda. The film has a real-life feel," says Mundra.

Provoked has been co-scripted by Rahila Gupta, Kiranjit's friend, biographer, and campaigner for her cause. "I'm impressed with Kiranjit's courage and persistence. Till the end, she didn't know that she had it in her to kill her husband."

"As for Ash, she has crossover appeal; it will be interesting to see how she portrays Kiranjit's story," says Rahila. Rahila met Mundra at the premiere of Bawandar in London.

"He was interested in making a film on Kiranjit, specially after reading a book on her. The most interesting part of Kiranjit's case is that the judge understood her years of trauma and, in a landmark ruling, changed the definition of being provoked to murder."

^ Here is the real story of Kiranjit Ahluwalia

Kiranjit, then 23, married Deepak Ahluwalia and moved to London, after being persuaded into an arranged marriage by her brothers.

Both her parents had died by the time she was 16. The violence and humiliation started two days after the wedding. What followed was 10 years of violence and sexual abuse.

Deepak saw other women while he continued to kick, punch and slap her. Deepak forced Kiranjit to have sex with him and she had two children.

The boys were terrified of their father and were also subjected to his violence. When Kiranjit ran away, Deepak found her and brought her back.

Finally, on May 9, 1989, she could stand it no longer - Kiranjit set fire to Deepak's bedclothes while he slept. The trial judge declared that the violence Kiranjit had suffered was "not serious."

A re-trial was ordered and on September 25, 1992, Kiranjit was found guilty of manslaughter due to diminished responsibility and sentenced to 3 years and 4 months (the time she had already served).

She was released immediately.

News # 179

These News are from “www.aishwarya-forever.com”


* “Ash: Proud to represent India at Cannes”
by: Subhash K. Jha
- ians

She has never sounded happier. Talking nineteen to the dozen after inaugurating the 58th Cannes film festival, Aishwarya Rai also sounded busy. "It's been a hectic but finally very satisfying schedule," she said on the phone from Cannes.

"I'm very happy to be here. It's always a great pleasure and honour to represent my country for an occasion as special as the Cannes film festival. I'm flooded with memories. Two years ago, I was on the jury. And then before that Sanjay (Bhansali), Shah Rukh and I were in Cannes for a very special screening of 'Devdas' . Each visit to Cannes has been an occasion for me."

This time Ash was at the prestigious festival to declare the event officially open. "It was very simple. I just said one line and so did director Alexander Payne... and it was on."

Aishwarya now leaves for London to shoot her new film, Jagmohan Mundhra's "Provoked".

What amazes Ash is the growing power and glory of Indian cinema in the West.

"Indian cinema has begun to be recognised globally. And it's very important for us to make our presence felt at important events such as Cannes. I feel there should be more Indian representation at festivals. India is producing such a large cross section of films. We need to be part of world cinema, and we need to do that now."

Info # 88

This Info is from “www.indiafm.com”


* Upcoming Bollywood Movies

Next Week - 27th May

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



3rd June

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

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

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



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.

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

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

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



10th / 17th June

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



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.

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

- 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.



24th June

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

- 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.

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

- 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

- 7 ½ Phere
Producers: Nimit Modawal.
Director: Isshaan Trivedi.
Cast: Irrfan Khan, Juhi Chawla.



Expected in June / July

- 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.

- 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.



01st July

- 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.

- 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

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

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

- 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

- Viruddh
Producer: A.B. Corporation Ltd., Satyajeet Movies P. Ltd.
Director: Mahesh Manjrekar.
Music: Ajay-Atul.
Cast: Bachchan, Sharmila Tagore, John Abraham, Sanjay Dutt.

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

- 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.

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

- 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.



05th August

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

- Amavas
Producer: Shreya Creations P. Ltd.
Director: Siddharth Srinivasan.
Music: -.
Cast: Konkona Sen Sharma, Tara Sharma, Victor Banerjee, Mahesh Manjrekar, Neena Gupta.



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.



26th August

- Deewane Hue Paagal
Producers: Firoz A. Nadiadwala.
Director: Vikram Bhatt.
Music: Anu Malik.
Cast: Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, Shahid Kapoor, Rimi Sen, Paresh Rawal, Om Puri.



Expected in August

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



Expected in August / September

- 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.



02nd October

- Maine Gandhi Ko Nahin Mara
Producer: Anupam P. Kher.
Director: Jahnu Barua.
Music: Bappi Lahiri.
Cast: Waheeda Rehman, Urmila Matondkar, Prem Chopra, Boman Irani, Parvin Dabas, Anupam P. Kher.



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

u r an active member in dis forum....nice 2 c u here.....n thnx 4 da movies....

Info # 89

These Info are from “www.indiafm.com”


* Big B's new project
By Taran Adarsh, May 17th 2005 - 0930 hrs IST

It's a casting coup! Vinod Khanna and Jaya Bachchan will head the cast of A.B. Corporation Ltd.'s new project, to be made in association with Spice Team Entertainment.

While A.B. Corporation Ltd. is currently producing FAMILY - TIES OF BLOOD [Amitabh, Akshay, Aryeman] in association with Keshu Ramsay, this new venture will be A.B.'s first joint venture with Vibha and Ragini of Spice, who had earlier produced KAUN HAI JO SAPNO MEIN AAYA and SHUKRIYA and have completed filming CHOCOLATE and AMAR JOSHI SHAHEED HO GAYA.

The ambitious venture -- revolving around the mother-daughter relationship -- will star Aishwarya Rai as Jaya Bachchan's daughter, while Ajay Devgan will be seen as Ash's beau in the film. Directed by Sharbani Deodhar [who had directed the Karisma Kapoor-Chandrachur Singh starrer SILSILA HAI PYAR KA], the film is expected to go on floors in September this year. It will be filmed in Mumbai and London.

What does raise eyebrows is the fact that Vinod Khanna has been teamed with Jaya Bachchan in this project, considering the fact that it happens to be Amitabh's home-production. Why isn't Big B enacting the role himself? “Two reasons. In the story, Vinod and Jaya aren't paired opposite each other [both are married to someone else]. Now, the moviegoers wouldn't accept a real-life couple [Big B, Jaya] to act as strangers in the film. Besides, we wanted someone slightly younger looking than Amit-ji for the character and Vinod-ji fits the role to the T,” Ragini of Spice Team enlightens me.

In fact, it was Big B's suggestion that the makers cast another actor in the role. That's how they zeroed on Vinod Khanna. Describing it as a family film, Ragini adds that the four characters [Vinod, Jaya, Ajay, Ash] have ample scope to display histrionics in the film. Bhawani Iyer [BLACK, MAIN AISA HI HOON] is scripting the venture.

The music composer hasn't been finalized, but the producers are in negotiations with Preetam [DHOOM] as well as Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy and either of them would be signed eventually.


* Now 'K2H2' sequel
By Taran Adarsh, May 17th 2005 - 0930 hrs IST

Sequels are rare in Bollywood! But there have been a few instances of film-makers trying their hand at a sequel if the first part is well-received at the box-office.

The latest news doing the rounds of the industry is that Ekta Kapoor is planning a sequel to KYAA KOOL HAI HUM. Director Sangeeth Sivan, who directed K2H2, doesn't deny the development either. “Yes, we are considering the possibility of making a sequel, but it's just an idea at the moment. We haven't started working on the script,” Sivan informs me.

Savoring the sweet success of K2H2 presently, Sivan adds that the lead men -- Tusshar and Ritesh Deshmukh -- would continue to be a part of the sequel, while the leading ladies might be different. A sequel to this laugh-riot is definitely an interesting idea, what say?


* Will Sunny win the race?
By Taran Adarsh, May 19th 2005 - 0930 hrs IST

A lot has been written about the movies that Rajkumar Santoshi and Dr. Chandraprakash Dwivedi are planning to make on the life and times of Prithviraj Chauhan. But while Santoshi is busy with FAMILY - TIES OF BLOOD and SAAMNA, Dr. Chandraprakash has gone ahead and arranged finance for his magnum opus.

“We are all set to roll in September,” Dr. Chandraprakash informs me, quashing rumors that the film wouldn't take off this year since the scripting is incomplete, “I am ready with the hardbound script [penned by Dr. Chandraprakash himself, with dialogues by B.M. Vyas, Vipul Mehta and Dr. Chandraprakash].”

To be filmed in Rajasthan in India and also in Russia, there's a strong possibility that the film will be made in two languages simultaneously -- Hindi and English. “We should proudly show our heroes to the world,” Dr. Chandraprakash states.

The cast, as of now, is still uncertain. “Sunny Deol will of course head the cast, but the remaining actors are still being considered. We might opt for international actors for certain roles though,” he enlightens. There's talk that Dr. Chandraprakash had approached Aishwarya Rai for the film. “Yes, I did have a meeting with her. I also suggested that she can work in both the projects [RKS, Dr. Chandraprakash]. There's a possibility that she might be a part of our film,” he adds.

But the startling development is that Dr. Chandraprakash has decided to meet his 'opponent', Rajkumar Santoshi, before he commences filming of the film. Why? “He's a brilliant director who does extensive research on a project before he commences shooting. It's always better to interact with learned people, exchange ideas, keep oneself abreast of what's happening around,” Dr. Chandraprakash maintains.

Meanwhile, well-known director Anand Mahendroo is involved in the project in the capacity of the completion guarantor. “I've to ensure that the film is made in right time, right cost and right quality,” Anand tells me.


* Anupam ties up with Yash Raj
By Taran Adarsh, May 20th 2005 - 0945 hrs IST

Actor-producer Anupam Kher has always been a Yash Chopra favorite. In fact, the talented actor and his wife Kiron Kher have essayed significant roles in several Yash Raj productions. The Khers have now cemented their friendship with the Chopras further.

Anupam has tied up with Yash Raj Films to distribute his forthcoming home-production MAINE GANDHI KO NAHIN MARA, directed by Jahnu Barua. In fact, the entire shooting of this Waheeda Rehman-Urmila Matondkar starrer has been wrapped up in a start-to-finish schedule. Also, Anupam has decided to release the film on October 2 [Gandhi Jayanti].

What's more, Anupam has altered his name slightly. It'll be Anupam P. Kher with this film.

Info # 90

These Info are from “www.indiafm.com”


* She's now Kallpana G. Lajmi
By Taran Adarsh, May 20th 2005 - 0945 hrs IST

While on name changes, director Kalpana Lajmi has altered the spelling of her name with immediate effect. Kalpana, who has completed filming her latest film CHINGAARI [Sushmita Sen, Anuj Sawhney, Mithun Chakraborty], has decided to spell her name differently.

Note her new name: Kallpana G. Lajmi.


* Remembering Sultan Ahmed
By Taran Adarsh, May 20th 2005 - 0945 hrs IST

It's time to remember our peers! Sultan Ahmed, who started his career as an assistant to K. Asif during the making of MUGHAL-E-AZAM and who later went on to produce and direct money spinners such as HEERA, GANGA KI SAUGANDH, DHARAM KANTA and DAATA, is being remembered on his third death anniversary by his wife, Farrah Dibaa Sultan Ahmed.

To mark the third death anniversary of the veteran as also unveil the first publicity of Sultaan Productions' latest venture HUSN - LOVE & BETRAYAL, a function has been organized on May 20 [today]. A number of film personalities, including Shatrughan Sinha and Jeetendra, are expected to grace the event.

HUSN - LOVE & BETRAYAL stars Sameer Dharmadhikari, Yuvaraaj Parashar, Nethra Raghuraman and Parmita Katkar.


* 3 premieres on 1 night
By Taran Adarsh, May 20th 2005 - 0945 hrs IST


The season of premiere shows is back! May 19 witnessed the premiere shows of three films, at three different locations of Mumbai city. The premiere of NAZAR for the bar girls of Mumbai was held at Maratha Mandir cinema, while the premiere of NAINA was held at Fame Adlabs in Andheri. The third premiere -- STAR WARS EPISODE III - REVENGE OF THE SITH -- was held at Fun Republic, also at Andheri. Quite a starry night!


* Pakistani singer for 'Krrish'
By Taran Adarsh, May 19th 2005 - 1045 hrs IST

Indian film-makers have started hiring the services of talented professionals from across the border.

The latest development pertains to Pakistani singer Rafakat Ali Khan rendering a song for Rakesh Roshan's keenly awaited biggie KRRISH. The song, tuned by Rakesh's brother Rajesh Roshan, was recorded in Mumbai on May 14 and 15. Alka Yagnik also participated in the song recording.

KRRISH stars Rekha, Hrithik Roshan, Priyanka Chopra and Naseeruddin Shah in pivotal roles.

Info # 91

These Info are from “www.indiafm.com”


* 'Nazar Telethon' on Pakistani TV channel
By Taran Adarsh, May 19th 2005 - 1045 hrs IST

Pakistan's premiere television channel Aaj TV has signed a historic contract with Mukesh Bhatt's Vishesh Films. The initial agreement is to acquire six films for telecast on Aaj TV. NAZAR will be the first of the instalments; the telecast date of the film will be announced shortly.

Before its telecast on the television channel, Aaj TV has organized an exclusive event, 'Aaj Dosti - Nazar Telethon Special', which will be aired live on Aaj TV on May 23, from 8 p.m. onwards. The telethon will feature NAZAR star Meera, director Soni Razdan and special guest Mahesh Bhatt. Pakistani film and TV personalities, along with officials from the Information Ministry as well as P.E.M.R.A., will also participate in this event.

The purpose of this event is to support the Government of Pakistan's ongoing efforts towards normalization of relationship as well as promotion of cultural exchange between India and Pakistan.


* Prestigious Global Award for P.N.C.
By Taran Adarsh, May 19th 2005 - 1045 hrs IST

Pritish Nandy Communications Ltd. received the Golden Peacock Global Award for Corporate Governance for the Emerging Economies [Private Sector] for the year 2005 at a glittering function held at the Nuffield Hall in Regent Park, London on May 12. The award was decided by a prestigious international jury headed by Dr. Ola Ullsten, former Prime Minister of Sweden.

The awards ceremony coincided with the Sixth International Conference on Corporate Governance 2005, being held at the same venue and was attended by some of the world's leading corporate governance experts. The function was chaired by Dr. Ullsten.

Pritish Nandy, Chairman of Pritish Nandy Communications Ltd., received the award on behalf of the company. The award is instituted by the World Council for Corporate Governance in London, in association with the Centre for Corporate Governance and the Institute of Directors, London.

This is the first time a motion picture company from India has won such a prestigious global award for corporate governance, dispelling the prevalent myth that the Indian movie industry is disorganized and chaotic.


* Will Sunny win the race?
By Taran Adarsh, May 19th 2005 - 0930 hrs IST

A lot has been written about the movies that Rajkumar Santoshi and Dr. Chandraprakash Dwivedi are planning to make on the life and times of Prithviraj Chauhan. But while Santoshi is busy with FAMILY - TIES OF BLOOD and SAAMNA, Dr. Chandraprakash has gone ahead and arranged finance for his magnum opus.

“We are all set to roll in September,” Dr. Chandraprakash informs me, quashing rumors that the film wouldn't take off this year since the scripting is incomplete, “I am ready with the hardbound script [penned by Dr. Chandraprakash himself, with dialogues by B.M. Vyas, Vipul Mehta and Dr. Chandraprakash].”

To be filmed in Rajasthan in India and also in Russia, there's a strong possibility that the film will be made in two languages simultaneously -- Hindi and English. “We should proudly show our heroes to the world,” Dr. Chandraprakash states.

The cast, as of now, is still uncertain. “Sunny Deol will of course head the cast, but the remaining actors are still being considered. We might opt for international actors for certain roles though,” he enlightens. There's talk that Dr. Chandraprakash had approached Aishwarya Rai for the film. “Yes, I did have a meeting with her. I also suggested that she can work in both the projects [RKS, Dr. Chandraprakash]. There's a possibility that she might be a part of our film,” he adds.

But the startling development is that Dr. Chandraprakash has decided to meet his 'opponent', Rajkumar Santoshi, before he commences filming of the film. Why? “He's a brilliant director who does extensive research on a project before he commences shooting. It's always better to interact with learned people, exchange ideas, keep oneself abreast of what's happening around,” Dr. Chandraprakash maintains.

Meanwhile, well-known director Anand Mahendroo is involved in the project in the capacity of the completion guarantor. “I've to ensure that the film is made in right time, right cost and right quality,” Anand tells me.

Info # 92

These Info are from “www.filmfare.com”


* Priyanka's 'Yakeen' about Arjun!

Though their first alliance in Asambhav didn't work, Priyanka Chopra hasn't lost all her hopes of making the big time with her on-screen hero, Arjun Rampal. And as proof of this faith, the two of them have paired up again, in a thriller called Yakeen, directed by Girish Dhamija. Priyanka says that this time there's no stopping Arjun. She insists, "Trust me, with 'Yakeen', his luck is going to change, for sure! He has given an outstanding performance. Though it's a difficult role, Arjun has pulled it off spectacularly and I'm sure our pairing will finally be accepted." Well, with the backing of a heroine like Priyanka, we're sure Arjun can't miss hitting the bull's eye this time around. Hum ko yakeen hai…!


* Akshay in Vipul's next?

Vipul Shah is very happy with the performance of 'Waqt'. "It has done very well even internationally," he tells us. And that has been encouragement enough for the filmmaker to start working on his next project. Vipul is currently writing a script that could well star Amitabh Bachchan and Akshay Kumar once again. When we got in touch with VS, he told us, "I am in the process of writing my next script. It's a different genre I am trying out this time. And also, unlike 'Aankhen' and 'Waqt', it's not a screen adaptation of any of my plays." So, can we well expect his two favourites - Amitabh and Akshay - to play their parts in this one, too? Vipul says, "I am waiting to complete the script, and if the characters suit them and the roles give them enough scope to perform, why not? Amitabh and Akshay are great actors and very important to me. But it's too early to say anything." Guess we need to give the filmmaker a little more 'waqt' before he decides who will play what in his next, huh?


* Abhishek: Holier than thou!

Actor Abhishek Bachchan recently made a holy trip to Badrinath in Uttaranchal. He accompanied close family friends, politician Amar Singh and industrialist pair Anil and Tina Ambani. We hear that there were a great number of people who made this trip to see the opening of the Vishnu temple that had been kept closed for six months because of the extreme cold. A tourist we met told us, "We got beautiful darshan there. And to add to the brilliant experience, we got to see Abhishek Bachchan! There was too much rush, and there were many people waiting to get a glimpse of the Bollywood actor. I didn't manage to meet him. But I did manage to click this snap!" Well, at least a few Abhishek fans got one of their prayers answered, huh! God listens, remember?


* Vivek's sister act!

Not many know that Vivek Oberoi's sister Meghna is also a talented painter - she is a singer; you may remember the song 'Saiyan baiyan chudake' from 'Mast'. To cut a long story short, here's the res: The younger Oberoi sibling recently had an exhibition of her series of paintings at an art gallery in Mumbai. "I have been painting ever since I was a child and this is for the first time that I'm showcasing my work on a larger canvas. My brother has been of great help and encouragement all along and he came to the show yesterday to lend me support," says the young lady. As for Vivek - well, he's got one more feather in his cap now, and it's painted a very sisterly colour!


* Manoj, Nirmal: Lagan lagi!

Filmmakers like the Barjatyas, Johars and Bhansalis have shown us what on-screen weddings are all about. And while the likes of Bhushan Kumar and Karisma Kapoor prefer to follow the on-screen formula and tie the knot with much fanfare off-screen, there are others who plan to keep their private moments very quiet and understated. Like Manoj Bajpai, who tied the knot recently with his beloved of many years - Neha (of 'Kareeb' fame); or actor Nirmal Pandey, who preferred to keep the ceremony a low-key affair. "It was a private thing, and I'd rather have kept it that way," says Nirmal. Bikram Saluja, who also had quite a low-profile wedding some time ago is of the opinion that "I personally didn't want to make such a big deal of my wedding. It was a very big deal for me, period. I didn't feel the need to have the sanctified event splashed across newspapers." Whatever the case, and however they did it, we wish all the newly-weds a happy married life!


* Nitin Manmohan: High flyer!

Filmmaker Nitin Manmohan is flying high these days. He has every reason to be happy, as his much-talked-about film, 'Dus' (don't confuse it with the late Mukul Anand's planned film of the same name, please!) is making news - it's ready to hit the screen soon. "Ever since the promos started, I have been flooded with phone calls. The promos have generated a lot of interest in the market and it's all thanks to my stars and director Anubhav Sinha, who made it happening," says Nitin. He adds, "Contrary to popular belief, 'Dus' is not an all-out action movie; it's more a story of intrigue. Something I have tried doing for the first time." Now we're really intrigued!

Info # 93

This Info is from “www.filmfare.com”


* Sanjay Kapoor plans to go topless at Cannes!
GAUTAM BURAGOHAIN
INDIATIMES MOVIES

He calls himself the youngest newcomer in Bollywood. Meet Sanjay Kapoor, the youngest of the three Kapoor brothers, his older siblings being producer Boney and actor Anil. And, in spite of living under the shadow of his two rather better known brothers, Sanjay hasn’t lost his famous sense of humour; he is still ready to crack a few funnies at his own expense. “It’s a God given gift, which not many people have. I think God was extra kind to me, more than to my brothers,” he grins.

And most of his black humour is directed towards his close buddy, Chunky Pandey. “I keep telling Chunky that the Ramgopal Varma film ‘D’ (which has Chunky in it) actually should be called ‘C’ - well, it certainly doesn’t stand for ‘Chunky’!” he says amidst peals of laughter. And before you blink, comes another crack: “Ever since Chunky straightened his hair, I have stopped eating roomali rotis , because they remind me of his hair.”

Besides the occasional crack directed at his friends, what else is happening in his life? In his career? “Lots! I might become the next superstar in a decade,” laughs Sanjay. “Jokes apart, I have some interesting films like ‘Sauda’ and ‘Tumhare Liye’ coming up and my fans will love me in these movies.”

Some time ago he announced ambitious plans of starting production work. “Oh, it’s on standby for the time being. I have serious plans, but I want to make everything foolproof before entering into this new venture,” he says. “I don’t want to get into production just for the heck of it.” Why not tie up with big brother Boney? “Our views don’t match. When it comes to movies, he has an altogether different outlook,” he informs us.

The grapevine insists that Boney Kapoor is going through a severe financial crunch. Sanjay refutes that with “ Arre, nothing of that sort; ups and downs in business happen all the time. The only problem with Boney is that he gets too obsessed with his films and he’s a flamboyant producer - he doesn’t believe in cutting corners - and that’s the reason his profits get affected every time.”

How does it feel to live in the shadow of his other famous brother, Anil? “Well, I guess though I have my own identity, people will still refer to me as Anil Kapoor's younger brother, and that’s something I can't escape,” he says.

The topic shifted to the Cannes Film Festival. Has Sanjay seen the photos of a busty Mallika Sherawat posing for the paparazzi? “Oh, that’s nothing! If I was invited (which we doubt will ever happen), I will appear topless,” he grins. And what if he is stranded on a desert island with Mallika? “I will make sure that Mahesh Bhatt is around to make a movie on it. The story will be about Mallika looking for me - and I will appear in the climax!” Sanjay laughs.

Info # 94

These Info are from “www.santabanta.com”


* I'm Half Indian: Kiss-Miss Meera

A leading Pakistani actress, who makes her Bollywood debut this week, wants Islamabad to lift a 40-year ban on Hindi language films to give a boost to warming ties between arch-rivals India and Pakistan.

Meera, who has starred in more than 30 Urdu language films, told Reuters on Wednesday she could work in Bollywood only because of the improved diplomatic relations between the two countries in the past one year.

"Film is the best media to improve relations between India and Pakistan. I only hope and pray current efforts to get the ban lifted succeeds," Meera said in an interview.

But she faces a daunting task after her family in Pakistan received death threats from Islamic groups on media reports she had done a kissing scene in Nazar, produced by Bollywood's Mahesh Bhatt.

"As an actress I have no inhibitions on screen. That doesn't mean I am willing to go to any lengths to prove my point. I know where to draw a line. I represent Pakistan in India and let me assure everyone I would never demean my culture. The 'kiss sequence' is part of the storyline and should not be seen in isolation," alleges Meera.

"Bhatt was the first person to take steps to improve cooperation between India and Pakistan in films. Hopefully he will be the first to release a movie there," she said.

Meera said all "negative impressions" about the movie, in which she plays a blind woman who acquires a bizarre ability to foresee murders in a red light area after an eye transplant, would be cleared when people get to see the film.

"It's a good film and will do well," she said. "I can't wait to know how people will receive it."

Indian films are hugely popular in Pakistan, and a flourishing bootleg DVD industry and satellite television mean Pakistanis can now watch Bollywood movies at home.

India and Pakistan have made tangible progress since they began a peace process early last year, easing visa regulations for the young and elderly and starting a historic bus service for more people-to-people contacts.

Though the core dispute over Kashmir, the divided Himalayan region that has been the cause of two of the three wars between India and Pakistan, is still to be resolved, cultural and sport ties have improved.

Earlier this month, Pakistan agreed "in principle" to screen or glance Mughal-e-Azam, one of the great classics of Indian cinema.

Meera, who says she was never made to feel she came from "an enemy country", plans to act in more Indian movies and has signed up for another film with Bhatt.

"People showered me with loads of flowers and garlands where ever I went to promote the film. This only shows how much people here love me."

"I'm half Indian now, but I have no intention to settle down here," she said.


* I will persuade Shoaib Akhtar: Mahesh Bhatt

Shoaib Akhtar, who missed a tour of India in March-April, has been offered the role of a gangster-on-the run in Mahesh Bhatt's forthcoming film Gangster but the veteran director is confident that he will be able to convince Pakistani cricketer and fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar to act in his film.

Talking to press on phone from Pakistan, Bhatt, who is considering Shoaib for the lead role in his forthcoming film ‘Gangster’, dismissed media reports of the Pakistani quickie having rejected the idea of joining films, saying ''Rather than going by anybody else's word in the matter I would like to hear it from the man himself.''

On Shoaib's reported statement that he wants to concentrate on his cricketing career rather than chalking out one in films, the filmmaker said,'' For all we know, it could only be his stated position, made to appease the Pakistani public. After all, any news of his joining a film career at a time when he is trying to regain his position in the squad, would not go down well with the local public who view him, first and foremost, as their cricketing hero.''

''Also, any reports of Shoaib joining Bollywood films would create an impression that he is not concentrating on his cricket,'' Bhatt explained, referring in this regard to rumours of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) not appreciating moves by Shoaib to join films.

PCB Chairman Shaharyar Khan has recently announced that Shoaib would have to seek Board's permission before acting in the film.

Bhatt, who is in Pakistan to attend a telethon organised by Aaj TV as well as to meet Pakistani Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz to secure a theatrical release for his forthcoming film 'Nazar', said he planned to meet the speedster on May 21 in Karachi.

''I will talk to Shoaib myself to convince him to act in my film. I will continue with my efforts to persuade him till the time he tells me himself that he is not interested. In that case only, we will look for someone else for the role,'' Bhatt said.

Shoaib was penciled in by Mahesh Bhatt for the title role in 'Gangster' after Sanjay Dutt and John Abraham expressed their disinclination to do the film due to various reasons.

Info # 95

These Info are from “www.santabanta.com”


* I'm like Madonna: Mallika

How is this for confidence? Sizzling Mallika Sherawat, in Cannes for the first time, likened herself to Brigitte Bardot, Grace Kelly and Madonna all in one sentence.

"A whole new market has opened for me," the actress told. The response of European media and American media here towards me has been fantastic, it has been great ... I'm going to grab this chance with both hands."

Asked whether she was daunted by the competition for producers' and directors' attention in the crowded resort, she replied: "There is no competition honey, there is no competition."


* Abhishek ready to shake butt!

Young Bollywood actor Abhishek Bachchan will take the stage for his first-ever international performance at the spectacular Samsung IIFA Awards to be held at Amsterdam on June 11.

The International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) awards will also have performances by Bollywood actors Salman Khan, Aishwarya Rai, Shahid Kapur, Kareena Kapoor, Lara Dutta, Esha Deol, item girl Malaika Arora-Khan, 'Kisna' debutanat Isha Sharwani, pop singer Daler Mehendi, Hariharan, Suneil Shetty, Arshad Warsi, Sushma Reddy and international pop sensations Bombay Rockers and Rouge.

Bollywood bigwigs, including Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Yash Chopra, A R Rahman, Javed Akhtar, Shabana Azmi, Vivek Oberoi, Kajol, Ajay Devgan and Urmila Matondkar, among other guests from the world of business, politics and sports, would be present at the event as guests.

Over 10,000 people will witness the show where the performances would be choreographed by Shiamak Davar. The IIFA Weekend and all the IIFA events have been conceptualised, produced and directed by Wizcraft International Entertainment, one of the world's leading entertainment agencies.

This year too the IIFA Awards will honour the Superstars of Indian Cinema and pay tributes to the stalwarts from the Indian silver screen.

Vidhu Vinod Chopra's 'Parineeta' is the film to be premiered at the IIFA World Premiere in Amsterdam on June nine.

A sensitive film on the joys, sorrows, fond memories, bittersweet experiences and a relationship of deep friendship, 'Parineeta' is a contemporary remake of an engaging and timeless tale by noted writer Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay.

The lead star cast of the movie includes Sanjay Dutt, Saif Ali Khan, Raima Sen and Diya Mirza, a special appearance by Rekha and debutante Vidya Balan. This Pradeep Sarkar's film will receive a red carpet welcome during its premier at the 650-year-old Pathe Tuschinski Theatre during the IIFA Weekend.

For the first time, IIFA will host the FICCI-IIFA Global Business Forum and a special IIFA Film Festival at the magnificent Pathé Tuschinski Theatre. The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), has come together with the IIFA to promote the globalisation of Indian Cinema.

The Forum will also serve as a platform for shared synergies, ideas and new business opportunities between India and the Netherlands. The subjects of discussion at the forum will be Cinema and Entertainment, Civil Aviation, Commerce and Industry and Tourism.

The IIFA festival will showcase some of the best films from the Indian Cinema, including hits like 'Veer Zaara', 'Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham', 'Dil Chahta Hai', 'Kal Ho Na Ho', 'Koi Mil Gaya' and the Oscar nominated films - 'Shwaas' and 'The Little Terrorist'.

The fun-filled sixth IIFA Weekend in Amsterdam will be packed with a host of exhilarating events like the IIFA World premiere and the IIFA Foundation Celebrity Cricket Match.


* Abhishek, Ash together again!

Riteish Deshmukh’s back-to-back comedy hits Masti and Kya Kool Hai Hum seem to have put him in the forefront of laugh-fests.

Deshmukh is all set to move into another orbit in his career. Rohan Sippy has signed him in a new Abhishek Bachchan-starrer as replacement for the ever-elusive Saif Ali Khan.

Says Rohan, “Saif was meant to be in my new film, but at the inception stage of Sridhar Raghavan’s script. Now, when the whole project has been finalised, it’s Abhishek and Riteish playing a mismatched pair. While Abhishek will be cast in a mellow mood, Riteish will be the brat in my film.”

The project, tentatively titled Bluff Master, will be an out-and-out comedy caper. Aishwarya Rai is also expected to join the cast.

Rohan says it will be a film about male bonding, “But Ash will have a substantial role. She certainly won’t be a decorative doll. Actually, after Kuch Naa Kaho I was keen to work with Abhi and Ash again.

Abhi’s presence in my movie is a given. I can’t think of making a film without him. It’s amazing how his career has taken off in the last one year.”

In fact, Sippy says that Abhishek’s dates had literally fallen into his lap.

“It’s almost a windfall. Abhishek suddenly had dates because Karan Johar’s film has been pushed back to September. We start our film in June and wrap up in a month’s time. Since Shridhar’s script is situated almost entirely in Mumbai, it shouldn’t be difficult to complete the film on schedule.”

Rohan is also gung-ho about Riteish. “I’ve watched him grow as an actor. There’s something very likeable about his personality. And he suits my film completely. I’m working with a completely new crew. That should ensure that my film looks fresh.”

Info # 96

This Info is from “www.filmfare.com”


* Khan rises at Cannes
JITESH PILLAI
TIMES NEWS NETWORK

While the spotlight may have shone on Aishwarya Rai, Aamir Khan in his own quiet, understated way won the day at Cannes. After Pather Panchali, the next big event was the private screening of Ketan Mehta’s The Rising.

There was much brouhaha, despite the fact that it was an exclusive screening only for the European, South African and Australian buyers of The Rising. The print of The Rising, which was shown to the exclusive gathering, in trade parlance, is called a ‘work in progress’ print.

After the screening, the film was quickly snapped up; in short, all international territories were bought. Producer Bobby Bedi called Aamir Khan, who is shooting in Mumbai.

Even as Bobby spoke to Aamir on the phone, the distributor who bought the South Africa rights of The Rising snatched the phone from Bobby and gushed to Aamir about how he had fallen in love with the epic film.

When contacted, Aamir Khan said, “It was a private screening only for the buyers. I’m keeping my fingers crossed.There’s still more post-production work to be completed.”

Interview # 40

This Interview is from “www.indiafm.com”


* Interview: Salim-Sulaiman

“You want to reach for the panic button with Naina!”
By IndiaFM News Bureau, May 19th, 2005 - 0945 hrs IST

Just as they were going to be labeled as specialists of songless thrillers, Kaal happened. And you got to give it to them, the duo did create some serious dhamaal. And now they are back to their niche slot of scoring music that is novel, edgy, & 'folksy'...yeah, the brothers like to hang on to that one. We talked to Salim, one half of the Salim-Sulaiman composer duo who warns us for some cold fear this Friday…

Q. Tell us the first thing you felt when you heard the score of Naina?
A. It was interesting; because the first time we played it back for ourselves, we thought it was scary! It's not often that once you have created a music piece, it scares you. But it happened with Naina. There are certain music pieces in the film that really frighten your senses and you want to reach for the panic button! I can safely say that we touched Hollywood standards with the effects that you'll get to hear.

Q. Did you consciously try to sound unlike Bhoot?
A. If it had been any other film, we probably would have had to do what you said. But in this case, the script of Naina was very unlike Bhoot, so not much effort there.

Q. So what does Naina sound like?
A. There are certain sound and shock effects that are a mandate with this genre but since the theme of the Naina was different, the color of sound is different too. And most importantly, Naina as a film travels from London to Kutch so that gives the music a huge music palette, from western flavor to the more folksy stuff.

Q. Is there anything new that you tried with Naina?
A. For sure. To begin with we used a slightly bigger choir, as in there were 8 people who were doubling and tripling. Now this amplifies and gives the impact of 32! Also since the film travels from London to rural India, it gave us the opportunity to use Ustad Sultan Khan's sarangi.

One another thing that made composing for Naina special is that we got the chance to work with a talented Gujrati singer like Shubha Joshi. She has a strong folk flavor to her voice and we used her alaaps for the bands that needed pain and a sad element. This gives a real twist to Naina.

Q. How was Shripal to work with?
A. Very nice, he gave us complete freedom to do our thing. We have worked really hard and Shripal had complete faith in our hardwork. So composing was a breeze!

Q. Finally, a music piece that you think was impressive?
A. I quite like what we have done for Being Cyrus. The film is yet to release but we had good fun scoring for it.

Interview # 41

This Interview is from “www.bollyvista.com”


* Interview: Meera

“ 'They did not want me to come to India' – Meera ”
By Vickey Lalwani ©2005 Bollyvista.com

In the midst of controversies, Meera is all set to see the release of her debut film in India in the form of Soni Razdan's 'Nazar'. However, Pakistani actress Meera doesn't seem to be the least pestered over what has been happening back home in Pakistan... 'I have done nothing wrong' she tells Vicky Lalwani.

Q. How are you feeling over the release of your debut film in India?
A. I am very confident, as I have worked with great people. This film spreads the message of friendship, peace and unity between India and Pakistan. It is great to play the bridge between these two countries.

Q. What has been the biggest difference between working in India and Pakistan?
A. I am very glad my misconception that Pakistanis are not treated well in India has been completely wiped off. I have lots of love and support from people here.

Q. What made you do a film with Mahesh Bhatt's wife in the first place?
A. When we met Mahesh Bhatt at the film festival in Pakistan, he suggested that we do a film together. I loved his sincerity and his intention of doing a film, which could bring both the countries together. I immediately agreed.

Q. After you, another Pakistani actress Sana Nawaz came to India and is doing a film. How do you feel about that?
A. That was precisely the reason why I did a film here. I had to go through the hard way and my path was full of thorns, but I am glad that it has opened all doors for others to come and do films out here. I just pray more and more like me come and do films in India.

Q. But your family was not in support of you doing a film here in India?
A. No one was in support of me doing a film here. In fact, as you can see my father does not even leave me for a single minute and constantly follows me like a spy. But I guess that things will change once the film releases.

Q. Did your father and other family members have a problem about the kissing scene?
A. No, they had a problem with me doing a Hindi film. They did not want me to come to India. I know they're still not happy. They keep stressing that I should return to Pakistan.

Q. Which are the other films you are doing?
A. I have just completed the film 'Kasak' with Lucky Ali and Raj Babbar. It is an art film, but I cannot give you more details.

Q. Are you disappointed that 'Nazar' is not releasing in Pakistan?
A. I will be very angry if the film does not release there. It's my right as I belong from Pakistan. If India can have a release, then why not Pakistan?

Q. Are you making any effort on the personal front?
A. I will speak to President Pervez Musharraf when I go back. I want 'Nazar' to release there, as my people there really love me.

Q. But 'Mughal-E-Azam' has already been given a go ahead?
A. See, 'Mughal-E-Azam' a great film. It is a classic and a citizen of UK is holding the rights, so it's easier.

Q. You had said that you were receiving some threats with reference to the kissing scene you have done in 'Nazar'. Are you still receiving those?
A. Yes, but I don't understand why they are doing it without watching the film. Let's see what happens after the film releases.

Q. Does the kissing issue have to do with the fact that Ashmit Patel is a Hindu?
A. Yes, it is something like that.

Q. So, do you regret kissing him in the film?
A. No, I don't. It is not even a kiss. It is just a romantic scene with a small peck on the lips. I don't think I have done anything wrong.

Q. Don't films in Pakistan have kisses?
A. Of course there are kisses and there are kisses in every film. But in my case, things were different and there were many other reasons as well.

Q. You said you needed police protection.
A. Yeah. I have my personal bodyguards.

Q. But why would any one want to harm you?
A. See, there are people who do not want peace between the two countries and so I'm in fear.

Q. Did the government give you the police protection?
A. They did. And now I have private security as well.

Q. Who are these people who have been threatening you?
A. I don't know.

Q. But there hasn't been any official name of a terrorist organization?
A. I never said they were from any terrorist organization.

Q. But then who would threaten you?
A. There are people from my industry and they are my people.

Q. My people, meaning?
A. They can be anyone from my family or my friends who do not want me to come to India and do films here.

Q. So, you know who they are?
A. Yes.

Q. Why don't you tell the whole world?
A. I don't want to. After all they are my people. I don't want to go against them. I don't wash dirty linen in public.

Q. People think this is all a publicity stunt for your film 'Nazar'?
A. It's not a publicity stunt. And I don't care for those who feel it that way.

Q. Are there any other projects in the pipeline?
A. An 'Umrao Jaan' remake, which will be directed by Afzal Ahmed.

Interview # 42

This Interview is from “www.filmfare.com”


* Interview: Amitabh Bachan

“ Amitabh: ‘Cinema can be a medium for Indo-Pak peace’ ”
NIKITA DOVAL

Q. There is a demand for Indian films to be released in Pakistan and vice versa. Can cinema help the peace process?
A. Indian films are seen in Pakistan and I think it is wonderful for cinema to be a medium of peace. Culturally, Indians and Pakistanis are the same. It would be nice if cinema could bridge any kind of gap between us.

Q. Efforts are being made to help the Indian film industry go global.
A. Indian cinema has already gone global. Figures show that 3.8 billion people worldwide see Indian films whereas Hollywood films are seen by 3.2 billion people. Our films are seen in parts of the world where English is not even a secondary language.

Q. To what would you attribute your continuing popularity?
A. I’ve been fortunate to have been part of films that have enjoyed success.Since cinema is a medium that cuts across time and borders, there has been a certain kind of recognition.

Q. Your latest release has done well.
A. It is a heartwarming family movie which people identify with. I was drawn to the film’s simplicity, humour and the father-son relationship.

Q. You are set to begin your second innings in TV .
A. I’m looking forward to hosting Kaun Banega Crorepati but, at the same time,am nervous too. When I fir
st did the show, it served as an eye-opener,and helped me out financially.Let’s see how things go this time round.

News # 180

These News are from “www.filmfare.com”


* Can the Big B be an ajnabi?

Apoorva Lakhia is not an ajnabi to the filmis, you know! For all those who need a bit of a brain tickler to figure that one out, we'll help you with it. Lakhia made his directorial debut with 'Mumbai Se Aaya Mera Dost' starring Abhishek Bachchan and Lara Dutta. The film didn't rake in the moolah at the BO, but the director won accolades for the way he filmed the project. And now he's back with some big stuff…back with a bang with the Big B. The film, titled 'Ek Ajnabi', also stars Perizaad Zorabian, Arjun Rampal and Vikram Chatwal - who was last seen in 'One Dollar Curry'. When questioned how he managed to rope in a biggie like the Big B for his second film, all Lakhia will say is, "What can I say about Mr. Bachchan? I'm thrilled that he's doing my film, and it's a challenge to direct an actor par excellence." Well, with a star cast such as this, we can't quite figure who the ajnabi is. Maybe someone in the film we don't know about yet - Jr. B, perhaps?


* Gracy Singh: Back to basics!

'Lagaan' brought in the accolades for Gracy Singh, but the actress just couldn't find her place in the numbers' game after that. Now, however, we hear she's banking on a new film called 'Chanchal', in which she plays the central character. But what's interesting is that the director of this one is Inderjit, the same man who directed her in the popular serial 'Amanat', for which she was known before her debut in films. With few directors being able to draw the best out of her, it looks like Gracy prefers going back to where she began. Of course, whether her 'basic instinct' will actually work remains to be seen. After all, success can be quite chanchal at the box-office, wotsay?


* Diana wants to be Rani…

Yes, our towering beauty queen Diana Hayden wants to be the gorgeous and daring queen, Rani. There's nothing surprising about that - almost every lovely lady in our nation idolises the heroine and would love to emulate her at some time in their lives. Now before our doe-eyed beauty Rani Mukherjee and the rest of you look at Diana curiously, we'll clarify something: Lady Diana isn't really talking about the Queen Bee of Bollywood; she's referring to the historical character, Rani of Jhansi. She was heard saying, "One of the most fascinating women history has seen is Rani of Jhansi. If I were to do an epic character, I'd love to play the Rani; a character like that on-screen will make an over-powering impact." So when do we see this queen being crowned anew?


* Bipasha's prediction!

While most directors are busy conning audiences into entering the theatres, with sensational posters and titillating promos, one actress who believes that viewers are intelligent enough to sift through the celluloid slough for themselves is Bipasha Basu. The beauty with brains believes in giving the audience its due; according to her, times are finally a-changing, with the line between great art cinema and commercial films slowly thinning. "I think, in some time, there will be no difference between a commercial and art films, because the sensibility of the audience is improving. People like to see more intelligent stuff done by their favourite commercial actors," she said, when we asked her what she thought about the change. Now if you see the actress doing a masala movie without mascara, you'll know where that came from!


* Sanjay Kapoor: Just call me 'Urmila'!

Actors love applause. What they like even more is to be in the news, preferably making it…along with a few large-font headlines, of course! Sanjay Kapoor is no exception. He confessed to us that he checks 'Bombay Times' every day to see if the paper has quoted him or at least carries a photograph of him at some 'do' or the other. During a recent interview, the actor told us that he was doing his usual once-over of the paper, dreaming about making it to the front page - and he even opened it in his sleepy stupor to see if he had indeed made the vaunted grade. But it was Urmila Matondkar's pretty face staring out at him instead! He promptly called us and, with his well-known sense of humour said, "Wow! You made me look great today. I've never looked so pretty!" Even though his wishbone (for filmi hits) may not be working too well, his funny bone is still strutting its stuff!


* Vivek's a Deol fan!

Our Oberoi lad might have strong likes and dislikes, but when he does attach the words 'love', 'friendship' and 'respect' to someone, he really means it. And no, we aren't talking about his lady-love Aishwarya Rai; in fact, even if we were to ask her to testify to that, all we'll get is the sound of giggling. So we'll tell you about someone else who wins Vivek's respect and appreciation. It's Bobby Deol. Apparently Oberoi met Deol on the sets of 'Soldier', which also had Daddy O in it. While dropping in to meet his father on the sets, Viv met Bobs, and from then on he's never stopped admiring him. Bobs called him over to his van for chai 'n chat and gave him a 'pep' talk that Vivek still remembers. "Bobby was so sweet and encouraging right from the beginning, even when I wasn't an actor. It's something I'll never forget," says Vivek. Well Vivek, it's nice to never forget friends, and even better to always forgive your rivals. Betcha you know who we're talking about – right?

News # 181

These News are from “www.b4utv.com”


* Ho Sakta Hai at Cannes

Aishwarya Rai, Nandita Das and Mallika Sherawat are creating news at the Cannes Festival, while one Indian film is making it big at the prestigious festival. India's first movie on black magic called Ho Sakta Hai will be screened at the Cannes this year. The film was first going to be released in India but was later decided to be screened overseas first. "It is a great feeling to get your movie premiered at the Cannes. I am also getting positive response for its technical brilliance", says an excited director Wilson Louis. The film unfolds some shocking facts about black magic and is not an attempt to show the positive or the negative side of it.


* Bhagnani denies rumors

There are rumours that producer Vashu Bhagnani was unable to pay the artistes of Silsiilay. As a result, the cast was forced to cancel interviews arranged for the media at the last minute. Bhagnani is one of the few producers who have a clean reputation so when contacted, a disturbed Bhagnani said, "I wonder who is spreading these rumors. The allegations are false and baseless. I have already paid actress Tabu and Celina. If other stars had a problem with me, they should have come and spoken to me about it." Bhagnani also denied the allegation that he had several scenes chopped from Silsiilay. "That is not true at all. I am the producer. How can I edit scenes from my film? If there are rumors that scenes have been deleted from the film then the question should be posed to director Khalid Mohammed and not me," he said.


* Meera picks Jism over Mughal-e-Azam

Pakistani actress Meera's controversial kiss in her forthcoming film Nazar brought her death threats and front-page fame. However, she still prefers bolder themes as far as movies are concerned. She says, "If I were to choose between Mughal-e-Azam and Jism or Murder, it would definitely be Jism or Murder as they reflect contemporary reality." She is ready to defend her 'kiss' every time she talks about her movie. She still fails to understand why such an issue was made about it. She maintains, "They are a part of any modern day romantic thriller."


* One more film on eunuchs

Issue- based movies seem to be the trend in Indian Cinema. Even though Tamanna and Shabnam Mausi have not yet released, one more director is inspired to make a film on eunuchs. Twinkle Twinkle Little Star is written and directed by former journalist Vayalar Madhav. He seems to have done extensive research in this field. K.P.Varghese from Welgate Cinemafox has produced the movie. It has been shot in Hyderabad and Kerala. Apart from Hindi, the film will also be shot in Tamil, Malayalam and Telegu. It will star Divya Dutta, Tinu Anand, Neha Pendse, Suhasini Mulay and Hollywood actress Linda among many others. This film promises to explore the eunuch's desire for a life of honor and dignity. Sources claim that a real- life incident in Madhav's life inspired him to make such a movie. He came across startling facts that form the base of his film.


* Bollywood offer

Director Mahesh Bhatt is constantly on the lookout to introduce new faces in Bollywood. His latest attempt was Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Akhtar. However, Shoaib has prioritized cricket over the alternative and politely refused the offer. Earlier Pakistani cricketer Mohsin Khan had tried a hand at acting game but failed miserably. In our country too, cricketers like Sandeep Patil, Salim Durrani and Salil Ankola have given a try to acting but couldn't make it big. The most recent cricketer to bomb at the box- office was Ajay Jadeja in the film Khel.