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I hate Valentine Day : Neha Dhupia
When all are gearing up to celebrate this beautiful day, Neha shocked us by saying that she hates Valentine Day. She informs that V day is just another day for her. Interestingly Neha has been dating her childhood buddy, a famous squash player Ritwik since long time.I hate Valentine Day : Neha Dhupia
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Don't cook up controversies about my past: Preity
By Subhash K JhaDoes Preity have a British ancestry? A story doing the rounds on websites that Preity Zinta is of British parentage has the actress who turns a year older on Jan 31, completely flummoxed.
But this isn't the first time that Preity's lineage is being questioned. "Some years ago there was this rumour that I was related to Dharmendra. I didn't mind that at all since he's so goodlooking."
The bit about the Brit has Preity less amused. "I don't know where that come. I'm a full-on pahadi girl. Both my parents are from Himachal Pradesh. I'm a complete Rajput girl. And yet I've been flooded with inquiries about my 'British blood'. Arrey yaar, who's spreading these strange rumours? And they erupted so suddenly. I wonder who's responsible."
A section of Preity's supporters see this as a ploy to discredit her lately-vocal tirade against the vote-politics of the nation.
Preity wants to stay away from politics of every kind. "For those who feel threatened because they feel I'm getting into politics let me assure them I've no intentions of getting into yet another alien territory. Movies are my life. And now there's cricket and the IPL. Politics is not my scene at all. There's no need to cook up controversies about my past."
Don't cook up controversies about my past: Preity
By Subhash K JhaDoes Preity have a British ancestry? A story doing the rounds on websites that Preity Zinta is of British parentage has the actress who turns a year older on Jan 31, completely flummoxed.
But this isn't the first time that Preity's lineage is being questioned. "Some years ago there was this rumour that I was related to Dharmendra. I didn't mind that at all since he's so goodlooking."
The bit about the Brit has Preity less amused. "I don't know where that come. I'm a full-on pahadi girl. Both my parents are from Himachal Pradesh. I'm a complete Rajput girl. And yet I've been flooded with inquiries about my 'British blood'. Arrey yaar, who's spreading these strange rumours? And they erupted so suddenly. I wonder who's responsible."
A section of Preity's supporters see this as a ploy to discredit her lately-vocal tirade against the vote-politics of the nation.
Preity wants to stay away from politics of every kind. "For those who feel threatened because they feel I'm getting into politics let me assure them I've no intentions of getting into yet another alien territory. Movies are my life. And now there's cricket and the IPL. Politics is not my scene at all. There's no need to cook up controversies about my past."
Abhay's camaraderie with his 'Dev D' director
Abhay Deol enjoyed every bit of shooting for his forthcoming film "Dev D" mainly because director Anurag Kashyap was always chilled out on the sets."Anurag would just let Abhay be during the shoot. There was no typical actor-director relationship, where the director calls the shots. Anurag would not say anything to Abhay even if he was fiddling with something or playing with a toy.
Abhay really liked that and he also liked the fact that Anurag is spontaneous, " said a source.
In "Dev D", which is a modern take on Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay's classic novel "Devdas", Abhay plays the lead role.
The film is slated for release Feb 6.
Abhay's camaraderie with his 'Dev D' director
Abhay Deol enjoyed every bit of shooting for his forthcoming film "Dev D" mainly because director Anurag Kashyap was always chilled out on the sets."Anurag would just let Abhay be during the shoot. There was no typical actor-director relationship, where the director calls the shots. Anurag would not say anything to Abhay even if he was fiddling with something or playing with a toy.
Abhay really liked that and he also liked the fact that Anurag is spontaneous, " said a source.
In "Dev D", which is a modern take on Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay's classic novel "Devdas", Abhay plays the lead role.
The film is slated for release Feb 6.
Where will the Slumdog...money go
The makers of the celebrated British film Slumdog Millionaire plan to put back a significant share of profits from the film's sales for the slum children, director Danny Boyle said.Boyle was quoted as saying Friday that investors were planning to meet in London next week to discuss how much money to put into a special fund and how best to distribute the cash.
“We want to set it up as soon as possible. What absolutely mustn't happen is that the money disappears, or people think this is a PR stunt, ” The Times quoted Boyle as saying.
Boyle and Christian Colson, one of the producers, spoke after the parents of child actors Rubina Ali and Azharuddin Ismail accused the filmmakers of exploiting and under-paying the eight-year-olds, who live in Mumbai slums.
However, Boyle said that the fund had nothing to do with any criticism.
“This is our chance to give something back to an extraordinary city which has helped us produce an extraordinary film. We came up with it once we realised what a success the film was becoming after the Golden Globes [Awards], ” he said.
He said fund would seek to help underprivileged children in Mumbai and “perhaps” the rest of India. Both Rubina and Azharuddin, who play the lead characters as children, would be paid a “substantial lump sum” when they reached 18 and had completed their studies.
“It's a carrot to encourage them to stay at school, ” Colson told The Times, adding the filmmakers had taken “a conscious decision not to shower” the children with money.
“They would not be able psychologically and practically to handle that. Our plan is to ameliorate their lives.” But Colson said feverish media interest has forced the children to be removed from school in Mumbai and returned to their village homes.
Since the children began their education last June, at the filmmakers' expense, “the transformation of them has been eye-watering, ” claimed Boyle. He added he was “determined to protect them from anything that might distort or harm” their future opportunities.
Defending the film's title, Boyle said, “Protest is a way of life in India.” “It's an extraordinary democracy. You just hope it won't become violent. My concern is that it doesn't hurt the kids and that my own children don't see anything like that. It's distressing.”
Boyle said the word “slumdog” wasn't intended as an insult.
“It's meant as 'underdog', the romantic idea of a guy succeeding on his own terms against all kinds of adversity. We tried to reflect as much of the city as we could. It's a place of extremes. The feel-good element comes from Mumbai having this extraordinary resilience and effervescence of energy. Like New York, it's a city that grabs you by the throat and says 'Welcome'. I am proud of it.”
Where will the Slumdog...money go
The makers of the celebrated British film Slumdog Millionaire plan to put back a significant share of profits from the film's sales for the slum children, director Danny Boyle said.Boyle was quoted as saying Friday that investors were planning to meet in London next week to discuss how much money to put into a special fund and how best to distribute the cash.
“We want to set it up as soon as possible. What absolutely mustn't happen is that the money disappears, or people think this is a PR stunt, ” The Times quoted Boyle as saying.
Boyle and Christian Colson, one of the producers, spoke after the parents of child actors Rubina Ali and Azharuddin Ismail accused the filmmakers of exploiting and under-paying the eight-year-olds, who live in Mumbai slums.
However, Boyle said that the fund had nothing to do with any criticism.
“This is our chance to give something back to an extraordinary city which has helped us produce an extraordinary film. We came up with it once we realised what a success the film was becoming after the Golden Globes [Awards], ” he said.
He said fund would seek to help underprivileged children in Mumbai and “perhaps” the rest of India. Both Rubina and Azharuddin, who play the lead characters as children, would be paid a “substantial lump sum” when they reached 18 and had completed their studies.
“It's a carrot to encourage them to stay at school, ” Colson told The Times, adding the filmmakers had taken “a conscious decision not to shower” the children with money.
“They would not be able psychologically and practically to handle that. Our plan is to ameliorate their lives.” But Colson said feverish media interest has forced the children to be removed from school in Mumbai and returned to their village homes.
Since the children began their education last June, at the filmmakers' expense, “the transformation of them has been eye-watering, ” claimed Boyle. He added he was “determined to protect them from anything that might distort or harm” their future opportunities.
Defending the film's title, Boyle said, “Protest is a way of life in India.” “It's an extraordinary democracy. You just hope it won't become violent. My concern is that it doesn't hurt the kids and that my own children don't see anything like that. It's distressing.”
Boyle said the word “slumdog” wasn't intended as an insult.
“It's meant as 'underdog', the romantic idea of a guy succeeding on his own terms against all kinds of adversity. We tried to reflect as much of the city as we could. It's a place of extremes. The feel-good element comes from Mumbai having this extraordinary resilience and effervescence of energy. Like New York, it's a city that grabs you by the throat and says 'Welcome'. I am proud of it.”
Although Hrithik is a star but he was easy to get
Zoya Akhtar, whose directorial debut Luck By Chance is a refreshing take on Bollywood's manipulations and double-standards, says she virtually had to knock on all the big doors of filmdom for casting someone in the lead role, but no one agreed."It doesn't help to be this one's daughter and that one's brother. Farhan's name got me access to the stars, but no one does a film for who has sent you, " Zoya, daughter of well-known lyricist Javed Akhtar told.
"The hardest part was the endless waiting to find the actor. I was dying to get behind the camera. My producer Ritesh Sidhwani kept telling me not to get low, we'll find the right guy. Little did we realise that the right guy was sitting in the room with us, " she said of her director-actor brother Farhan Akhtar.
The film shows the dilemma of outsiders and strugglers in the industry and Zoya says she herself had to go through the grind.
"I went through these times when I felt I just didn't fit in. I went through lows when I wondered when I'd finally be able to make a film. But the trick was to hang in there. Thank God for family and friends. Thank God for Farhan. They kept my morale from sagging to ground level, " she said.
Saif Ali Khan and Vivek Oberoi wanted her to change the ending because they didn't want to play a Bollywood struggler. But Zoya is happy with the final outcome.
"I got the cast I wanted and now the climate in movie theatres has changed drastically. Audiences are open to all kinds of experiences. This is the best time for me to come out. When I started casting for 'Luck By Chance' not many directors were willing to push the envelope.
"The thing about my film is that the hero is a bit of an ambitious user and liar. A lot of our heroes were apprehensive playing a grey character. They wanted me to change the end to make the protagonist look brighter. I refused. You've to stick to your convictions, " she said.
According to Zoya, Farhan was the best thing to happen to "Luck By Chance".
"It was (director) Reema Kagti who suggested I do 'Luck By Chance' with Farhan. It was the best decision I could make. He knew the script in and out. He was part of it from the first draft. And every time an actor would say no to my film, I'd discuss it with him and wonder where I was going wrong.
"I didn't feel insecure, I felt sad and angry. I never felt what I was making was wrong. No one close to me suggested that I change the script to make the hero less grey."
Being a casting director, Zoya has seen strugglers first hand.
"I know the character Farhan plays. I've met him before this film. And I've cast lots of actors and stars from the industry either as themselves or as characters."
On the sets Zoya had to forget her leading man was her brother.
"I maintained a certain decorum with Farhan. It was hard. I tried to keep him not involved with what was going on off camera, so he'd focus on what he was doing."
And Zoya can't praise actress Konkona Sen Sharma enough.
"She completely spoils a director with her disciplined approach. I wonder how I'll find another actress to match her easy-going professionalism. She was literally a part of our crew. Where will I find someone who's brilliant and so easy to work with?"
Although Hrithik is a star, signing him on for the cameo wasn't so difficult for the debutant director.
"He plays a star named Zafar Khan. Getting him was quite easy. I was working with him in another film 'Kismat Talkies'. And when that got delayed, I went back to the one that I wanted to do earlier. He liked 'Luck By Chance' too and wanted to play Zafar Khan. His song is a homage to all item songs in Bollywood.
"My film is about success and failure, winning and losing and self-worth. It could've been set in any other industry, " Zoya said.
Although Hrithik is a star but he was easy to get
Zoya Akhtar, whose directorial debut Luck By Chance is a refreshing take on Bollywood's manipulations and double-standards, says she virtually had to knock on all the big doors of filmdom for casting someone in the lead role, but no one agreed."It doesn't help to be this one's daughter and that one's brother. Farhan's name got me access to the stars, but no one does a film for who has sent you, " Zoya, daughter of well-known lyricist Javed Akhtar told.
"The hardest part was the endless waiting to find the actor. I was dying to get behind the camera. My producer Ritesh Sidhwani kept telling me not to get low, we'll find the right guy. Little did we realise that the right guy was sitting in the room with us, " she said of her director-actor brother Farhan Akhtar.
The film shows the dilemma of outsiders and strugglers in the industry and Zoya says she herself had to go through the grind.
"I went through these times when I felt I just didn't fit in. I went through lows when I wondered when I'd finally be able to make a film. But the trick was to hang in there. Thank God for family and friends. Thank God for Farhan. They kept my morale from sagging to ground level, " she said.
Saif Ali Khan and Vivek Oberoi wanted her to change the ending because they didn't want to play a Bollywood struggler. But Zoya is happy with the final outcome.
"I got the cast I wanted and now the climate in movie theatres has changed drastically. Audiences are open to all kinds of experiences. This is the best time for me to come out. When I started casting for 'Luck By Chance' not many directors were willing to push the envelope.
"The thing about my film is that the hero is a bit of an ambitious user and liar. A lot of our heroes were apprehensive playing a grey character. They wanted me to change the end to make the protagonist look brighter. I refused. You've to stick to your convictions, " she said.
According to Zoya, Farhan was the best thing to happen to "Luck By Chance".
"It was (director) Reema Kagti who suggested I do 'Luck By Chance' with Farhan. It was the best decision I could make. He knew the script in and out. He was part of it from the first draft. And every time an actor would say no to my film, I'd discuss it with him and wonder where I was going wrong.
"I didn't feel insecure, I felt sad and angry. I never felt what I was making was wrong. No one close to me suggested that I change the script to make the hero less grey."
Being a casting director, Zoya has seen strugglers first hand.
"I know the character Farhan plays. I've met him before this film. And I've cast lots of actors and stars from the industry either as themselves or as characters."
On the sets Zoya had to forget her leading man was her brother.
"I maintained a certain decorum with Farhan. It was hard. I tried to keep him not involved with what was going on off camera, so he'd focus on what he was doing."
And Zoya can't praise actress Konkona Sen Sharma enough.
"She completely spoils a director with her disciplined approach. I wonder how I'll find another actress to match her easy-going professionalism. She was literally a part of our crew. Where will I find someone who's brilliant and so easy to work with?"
Although Hrithik is a star, signing him on for the cameo wasn't so difficult for the debutant director.
"He plays a star named Zafar Khan. Getting him was quite easy. I was working with him in another film 'Kismat Talkies'. And when that got delayed, I went back to the one that I wanted to do earlier. He liked 'Luck By Chance' too and wanted to play Zafar Khan. His song is a homage to all item songs in Bollywood.
"My film is about success and failure, winning and losing and self-worth. It could've been set in any other industry, " Zoya said.
I don't make films for awards: Aamir Khan
I don't make films for awards: Aamir Khan
“I don't make films for awards. I make films for the audience. The audience, for which I have made the film, really loved it and the audiences outside India have also loved it. What I am trying to say is that film has been well loved across the globe and that for me it is extremely heartening and something that I give very high value to, ” Aamir said in an interview to NDTV 24x7.
The actor who was recently in the news for his hit psychological thriller “Ghajini” was also upbeat about the film's effect on children.
On being asked about his decision to make a violent film with a U/A certificate after wielding the megaphone himself on an issue-based subject, he said: “I think the censor board gave it due thought before coming out with U/A certification, which means parental guidance.
“I feel any film which is U/A certified, parents ought to check it out before or wait till they see the review. I myself have done that. Junaid (Aamir's son) is 15 and he has seen 'Ghajini' and Aira (daughter) is 10 and she has not. As parents, Rina (first wife) and I have taken that call, ” he explained.
Aamir also negated the Western made Indian film controversy surrounding Danny Boyle's Oscar-nominated underdog drama “Sllumdog Millionaire”.
“I don't see 'Slumdog...' as an Indian film. I think it is a film about India like 'Gandhi' (that) was made by Sir Richard Attenborough. Similarly, 'Slumdog...' is about India but it is not an Indian film.
“I hope it does well in (the) Academy (awards). I don't think it's got to do anything with India or abroad. Filmmakers are creative people and they are storytellers. They are telling us a story. I don't think 'Slumdog...' is making an attempt to show the underbelly of India or that may be its selling point, " he explained.
Talking about Bollywood stars making an entry into politics, Aamir said: "I don't want to. I'll support a political partly only when I seriously believe that this is in fact a party in which I have real hope and full confidence. Otherwise, I would never endorse a political party, ” he said.
The show will be aired on NDTV 24x7, Sunday at 9:30 p.m.
I could see frustration on Zoya's face: Farhan
He is a director by design, an actor by default and an anchor by….well, luck by chance! Ask multifaceted Farhan Akhtar, what is next up his sleeve? "To be an RJ, I guess, " he jokes instantly.On a serious note, he adds: "By God's grace, I've two lovely daughters and I hope, they'll grow up into nice human beings. So, good parenting is currently on mine and Adhuna's (wife) agenda. Well, life is unpredictable you see. It keeps throwing up things at you and you got to catch them without batting an eyelid."
He is a man with diverse roles rolled into one. But would Farhan be second time lucky with his January 30 release Luck By Chance? Well only the coming Friday will tell. With beloved sister Zoya wielding the megaphone and a huge ensemble starcast for company onscreen, Farhan sounds upbeat about the movie that navigates around the showbiz industry.
"The movie captures a slice of Bollywood life on screen. It's about our very own film industry without being overtly critical about it. The plotline is woven around the very movie marquee that I belong to. It talks of strugglers and their dreams down the slippery lanes of the tinseltown.
The story is embedded with a deeper meaning of success to all and sundry. The script is strong and appealing, plus has the power to grip the target-audience at large. There were a select few private screenings in Mumbai, which the viewers have liked a lot.
Some even exclaimed kitna dikha diya as the industry insiders are acquainted with the ways of the film-world. They felt empathy for each and every character as they witness similar characters in real life, trying their pot of luck at the steps of the film studios, " he elaborates.
Luck by Chance boasts of an ensemble starcast with a bevy of A-listers on the board. For instance, Hrithik Roshan, Rishi Kapoor, Dimple Kapadia, Konkona Sensharma, Juhi Chawla, Isha Sharwani, Sanjay Kapoor besides Farhan himself donning the main protagonist's role.
"With that kind of a talented and professional crew to boot, you just can't afford to gamble and mess around. There were too many stakes on the radar to make even minor mistakes, " chips in Farhan.
Briefing his kirdaar, he sums up: "I play a guy called Vikram Jaisingh who hails from Delhi and travels to Mumbai only to become a hero. He meets his female lead Sona Mishra (Konkona) in the movie capital and both hit it off immediately.
The film further moves on to showcase their journey of hardships together and how they sweat it out to build careers in Bollywood. While Sona seems to know the industry in and out since she was already working full time as a junior artist to get a firm footing in small-budget flicks to start off initially, she promises to help and guide the wannabe actor to bag his much-needed break.
However, Vikram exploits the prevalent system, beyond his capacity to get what he wants. Does he achieve his end is what the film all about." Jointly produced by Farhan and Ritesh Sidhwani, Luck by Chance has been in the gestation period for seven long years.
"It's a much delayed project of Zoya. She lived with the script over the years. I could sometimes feel the wrinkles of frustration settling on her forehead. The way I waited for two years to get the cast for my maiden movie (DCH) finalised, similarly Zoya had to linger Luck….at length to take off, " he enlightens.
With a plenty on his plate, Farhan is presently contemplating on a slew of interesting films in the offing. Sadly enough, his much-discussed film Voice from the Sky has been deferred due to logistic reasons.
"It's a heavyweight cost-effective project pegged around an expensive budget above 10 million dollar. Thanks to the ongoing recession that this turn-of-the-century period piece has been postponed for the moment. It won't be possible to commence the shoots by December-end. The status of Don 2 is also uncertain, as it will be ideally shot during the summer months.
While Shah Rukh is right now busy wrapping up Karan Johar's film, next he would devote himself 24X7 to his IPL team. So another 10 months' time is guaranteed to lay the spadework for this underworld chase caper to cut its teeth. However, come April 2009, my own production Karthik Calling Karthik will be on the floors.
Slated for a December release, the movie will be directed by Vijay Lalwani. Apart from portraying a part in it, I've worked upon the story as well as the film's dialogues. In tow is a film by Abhinay Deo, starring Ash-Abhishek, followed with Reema Kagti's second outing, " he informs.
I don't make films for awards: Aamir Khan
I don't make films for awards: Aamir Khan
“I don't make films for awards. I make films for the audience. The audience, for which I have made the film, really loved it and the audiences outside India have also loved it. What I am trying to say is that film has been well loved across the globe and that for me it is extremely heartening and something that I give very high value to, ” Aamir said in an interview to NDTV 24x7.
The actor who was recently in the news for his hit psychological thriller “Ghajini” was also upbeat about the film's effect on children.
On being asked about his decision to make a violent film with a U/A certificate after wielding the megaphone himself on an issue-based subject, he said: “I think the censor board gave it due thought before coming out with U/A certification, which means parental guidance.
“I feel any film which is U/A certified, parents ought to check it out before or wait till they see the review. I myself have done that. Junaid (Aamir's son) is 15 and he has seen 'Ghajini' and Aira (daughter) is 10 and she has not. As parents, Rina (first wife) and I have taken that call, ” he explained.
Aamir also negated the Western made Indian film controversy surrounding Danny Boyle's Oscar-nominated underdog drama “Sllumdog Millionaire”.
“I don't see 'Slumdog...' as an Indian film. I think it is a film about India like 'Gandhi' (that) was made by Sir Richard Attenborough. Similarly, 'Slumdog...' is about India but it is not an Indian film.
“I hope it does well in (the) Academy (awards). I don't think it's got to do anything with India or abroad. Filmmakers are creative people and they are storytellers. They are telling us a story. I don't think 'Slumdog...' is making an attempt to show the underbelly of India or that may be its selling point, " he explained.
Talking about Bollywood stars making an entry into politics, Aamir said: "I don't want to. I'll support a political partly only when I seriously believe that this is in fact a party in which I have real hope and full confidence. Otherwise, I would never endorse a political party, ” he said.
The show will be aired on NDTV 24x7, Sunday at 9:30 p.m.
I could see frustration on Zoya's face: Farhan
He is a director by design, an actor by default and an anchor by….well, luck by chance! Ask multifaceted Farhan Akhtar, what is next up his sleeve? "To be an RJ, I guess, " he jokes instantly.On a serious note, he adds: "By God's grace, I've two lovely daughters and I hope, they'll grow up into nice human beings. So, good parenting is currently on mine and Adhuna's (wife) agenda. Well, life is unpredictable you see. It keeps throwing up things at you and you got to catch them without batting an eyelid."
He is a man with diverse roles rolled into one. But would Farhan be second time lucky with his January 30 release Luck By Chance? Well only the coming Friday will tell. With beloved sister Zoya wielding the megaphone and a huge ensemble starcast for company onscreen, Farhan sounds upbeat about the movie that navigates around the showbiz industry.
"The movie captures a slice of Bollywood life on screen. It's about our very own film industry without being overtly critical about it. The plotline is woven around the very movie marquee that I belong to. It talks of strugglers and their dreams down the slippery lanes of the tinseltown.
The story is embedded with a deeper meaning of success to all and sundry. The script is strong and appealing, plus has the power to grip the target-audience at large. There were a select few private screenings in Mumbai, which the viewers have liked a lot.
Some even exclaimed kitna dikha diya as the industry insiders are acquainted with the ways of the film-world. They felt empathy for each and every character as they witness similar characters in real life, trying their pot of luck at the steps of the film studios, " he elaborates.
Luck by Chance boasts of an ensemble starcast with a bevy of A-listers on the board. For instance, Hrithik Roshan, Rishi Kapoor, Dimple Kapadia, Konkona Sensharma, Juhi Chawla, Isha Sharwani, Sanjay Kapoor besides Farhan himself donning the main protagonist's role.
"With that kind of a talented and professional crew to boot, you just can't afford to gamble and mess around. There were too many stakes on the radar to make even minor mistakes, " chips in Farhan.
Briefing his kirdaar, he sums up: "I play a guy called Vikram Jaisingh who hails from Delhi and travels to Mumbai only to become a hero. He meets his female lead Sona Mishra (Konkona) in the movie capital and both hit it off immediately.
The film further moves on to showcase their journey of hardships together and how they sweat it out to build careers in Bollywood. While Sona seems to know the industry in and out since she was already working full time as a junior artist to get a firm footing in small-budget flicks to start off initially, she promises to help and guide the wannabe actor to bag his much-needed break.
However, Vikram exploits the prevalent system, beyond his capacity to get what he wants. Does he achieve his end is what the film all about." Jointly produced by Farhan and Ritesh Sidhwani, Luck by Chance has been in the gestation period for seven long years.
"It's a much delayed project of Zoya. She lived with the script over the years. I could sometimes feel the wrinkles of frustration settling on her forehead. The way I waited for two years to get the cast for my maiden movie (DCH) finalised, similarly Zoya had to linger Luck….at length to take off, " he enlightens.
With a plenty on his plate, Farhan is presently contemplating on a slew of interesting films in the offing. Sadly enough, his much-discussed film Voice from the Sky has been deferred due to logistic reasons.
"It's a heavyweight cost-effective project pegged around an expensive budget above 10 million dollar. Thanks to the ongoing recession that this turn-of-the-century period piece has been postponed for the moment. It won't be possible to commence the shoots by December-end. The status of Don 2 is also uncertain, as it will be ideally shot during the summer months.
While Shah Rukh is right now busy wrapping up Karan Johar's film, next he would devote himself 24X7 to his IPL team. So another 10 months' time is guaranteed to lay the spadework for this underworld chase caper to cut its teeth. However, come April 2009, my own production Karthik Calling Karthik will be on the floors.
Slated for a December release, the movie will be directed by Vijay Lalwani. Apart from portraying a part in it, I've worked upon the story as well as the film's dialogues. In tow is a film by Abhinay Deo, starring Ash-Abhishek, followed with Reema Kagti's second outing, " he informs.
I'm not a romantic girl & Adhyayan knows it
Mohit Suri’s recently released Raaz - The Mystry Continues is doing well at the box office. Interestingly Raaz has become the first successful film of the year. However Mohit Suri along with his team celebrated the success of the film.We met film’s leading lady Kangana who is top of the world as she has been appreciated for her performance. When asked, did they expect huge success for Raaz – TMC she says, “Yeah but never thought that morning shows will be houseful too. The response is incredible. I never got such opening for any of my film.”
Speaking about the scariest scene of the film she says, “I was scared while watching Raaz – TMC as it’s a very scary film. I feel scared of myself in the film. I think there’s a scene in the film where I become a man and then a ghost. It’s a horrifying scene. I got cramps in my stomach while watching that scene.”
Kangana Ranaut, who is riding high on the success of her films “Fashion” and “Raaz-The Mystery Continues”, says she only trusts her instincts while choosing a role.
“I read 60 scripts before signing 'Fashion' - all the others flopped. I know which movie would be a hit. I trust my instincts, ” Kangana said on Zee News' celebrity chat show “Kahiye Janab”.
Commenting upon her on-an-off relationship with Adhyayan Suman, she said that they have “no issues” with each other. In fact, she shares: “I'm not a romantic person and Adhyayan knows it."
I'm not a romantic girl & Adhyayan knows it
Mohit Suri’s recently released Raaz - The Mystry Continues is doing well at the box office. Interestingly Raaz has become the first successful film of the year. However Mohit Suri along with his team celebrated the success of the film.We met film’s leading lady Kangana who is top of the world as she has been appreciated for her performance. When asked, did they expect huge success for Raaz – TMC she says, “Yeah but never thought that morning shows will be houseful too. The response is incredible. I never got such opening for any of my film.”
Speaking about the scariest scene of the film she says, “I was scared while watching Raaz – TMC as it’s a very scary film. I feel scared of myself in the film. I think there’s a scene in the film where I become a man and then a ghost. It’s a horrifying scene. I got cramps in my stomach while watching that scene.”
Kangana Ranaut, who is riding high on the success of her films “Fashion” and “Raaz-The Mystery Continues”, says she only trusts her instincts while choosing a role.
“I read 60 scripts before signing 'Fashion' - all the others flopped. I know which movie would be a hit. I trust my instincts, ” Kangana said on Zee News' celebrity chat show “Kahiye Janab”.
Commenting upon her on-an-off relationship with Adhyayan Suman, she said that they have “no issues” with each other. In fact, she shares: “I'm not a romantic person and Adhyayan knows it."
Has Akshay Kumar lost his comic touch?
The failure of Nikhil Advani's "Chandni Chowk To China" has put a question mark on Akshay Kumar's comic journey. While some filmmakers say he tends to interfere in the director's job, his staunch supporters in Bollywood feel he should not be written off because of one flop.There were reports that the comic element in his next big release "Kambakht Ishq" were revamped after the disastrous results of "Chandni Chowk..." at the box office. But "Kambakht Ishq" producer Sajid Nadiadwala shoots down the reports.
"Why would I do that? The film is what it is. I don't work with my actors based on how their last film did. 'Kambakht Ishq' will have a lot to offer, " Nadiadwala told.
In "Kambakht Ishq", Akshay is paired with Kareena Kapoor. Some parts of the film were shot in Hollywood and stars like Sylvester Stallone, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Brandon Routh feature in the movie.
"It's an out-and-out romantic comedy with stunts of an international order. And why are we jumping the gun just because one of his films hasn't lived up to expectations? There could be so many reasons for it. Why should Akshay be blamed for it? Why so much negativity about him? Is he the first superstar to disappoint audiences?"
On the downside, Akshay's pairing with Kareena has hardly ever worked at the box office. Suneel Darshan's "Talaash", Dharmesh Darshan's "Bewafaa" and Yash Raj Films' "Tashan" are a few examples.
Some filmmakers would like him to end his protracted attempts at comedy.
"Akshay has become progressively active in the process of writing scripts and shooting films. He freely makes suggestions some of which, I've to admit, are good. But quite often he wants to take over the project. When I went to him with another project, he offered to co-produce it and get someone to re-write portions. It's obvious a lot of scenes in 'Chandni Chowk...' were re-written. The result shows, " a director said on condition of anonymity.
"It's the Govinda factor at work again, " said another director who preferred to remain anonymous. "He did so much buffoonery on screen that Govinda made people forget there was more to him than meets the eye."
However, Akshay's staunch producer-director friends are more than happy to stand by him.
Said Vipul Shah, who will launch his next with Akshay and Aishwarya Rai in March: "I don't think the failure of 'Chandni Chowk To China' means that audiences have rejected him in the comic avatar. The backlash is totally uncalled for. And it looks motivated by reasons other than the box office. Many people have been waiting to pounce on Akshay. This is their opportunity."
But Shah, whose last two films with Akshay - "Singh Is Kinng" and "Namastey London" - were romantic comedies, has decided to keep away from the genre in the next venture.
It is believed that apart from Priyadarshan's "De Dana Dan", which is an out-and-out comedy, the comic element is being cut down or dowplayed in Akshay's forthcoming projects.
Has Akshay Kumar lost his comic touch?
The failure of Nikhil Advani's "Chandni Chowk To China" has put a question mark on Akshay Kumar's comic journey. While some filmmakers say he tends to interfere in the director's job, his staunch supporters in Bollywood feel he should not be written off because of one flop.There were reports that the comic element in his next big release "Kambakht Ishq" were revamped after the disastrous results of "Chandni Chowk..." at the box office. But "Kambakht Ishq" producer Sajid Nadiadwala shoots down the reports.
"Why would I do that? The film is what it is. I don't work with my actors based on how their last film did. 'Kambakht Ishq' will have a lot to offer, " Nadiadwala told.
In "Kambakht Ishq", Akshay is paired with Kareena Kapoor. Some parts of the film were shot in Hollywood and stars like Sylvester Stallone, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Brandon Routh feature in the movie.
"It's an out-and-out romantic comedy with stunts of an international order. And why are we jumping the gun just because one of his films hasn't lived up to expectations? There could be so many reasons for it. Why should Akshay be blamed for it? Why so much negativity about him? Is he the first superstar to disappoint audiences?"
On the downside, Akshay's pairing with Kareena has hardly ever worked at the box office. Suneel Darshan's "Talaash", Dharmesh Darshan's "Bewafaa" and Yash Raj Films' "Tashan" are a few examples.
Some filmmakers would like him to end his protracted attempts at comedy.
"Akshay has become progressively active in the process of writing scripts and shooting films. He freely makes suggestions some of which, I've to admit, are good. But quite often he wants to take over the project. When I went to him with another project, he offered to co-produce it and get someone to re-write portions. It's obvious a lot of scenes in 'Chandni Chowk...' were re-written. The result shows, " a director said on condition of anonymity.
"It's the Govinda factor at work again, " said another director who preferred to remain anonymous. "He did so much buffoonery on screen that Govinda made people forget there was more to him than meets the eye."
However, Akshay's staunch producer-director friends are more than happy to stand by him.
Said Vipul Shah, who will launch his next with Akshay and Aishwarya Rai in March: "I don't think the failure of 'Chandni Chowk To China' means that audiences have rejected him in the comic avatar. The backlash is totally uncalled for. And it looks motivated by reasons other than the box office. Many people have been waiting to pounce on Akshay. This is their opportunity."
But Shah, whose last two films with Akshay - "Singh Is Kinng" and "Namastey London" - were romantic comedies, has decided to keep away from the genre in the next venture.
It is believed that apart from Priyadarshan's "De Dana Dan", which is an out-and-out comedy, the comic element is being cut down or dowplayed in Akshay's forthcoming projects.
SRK is not ashamed of Slumdog
Many critics and prominent industry people have been fuming about the fact that the Oscar nominated film 'Slumdog Millionaire' highlights the poverty in Mumbai.But the baadshah of Bollywood SRK has no problems with it.
He thinks that the poverty seen in the film is a reality and thinks it's wrong for people to become cynical when the film is getting international acclaim.
Khan, who has read the original book as well as the script says, "Isn't that (poverty and slums) a reality? If you (critics) have a problem with the word slumdog, why don't you look positively and see that there is a word millionaire or 'crorepati' also."
Khan, has returned from Los Angeles after a month-long schedule of Karan Johar's 'My name is Khan' and testified, "I have just returned from the US and people there have become crazy about the film and its music. The film's sound is also good apart from a good story and screenplay. The film deserves all awards."
However he doesn't regret turning down Anil Kapoor's role in the film.
He says maybe he wouldn't have done justice to the role of a game show host like Anil Kapoor. He was already hosting 'Kaun Banega Crorepati' (KBC) and later 'Kya Aap Panchvi Pass Se Tez Hai' during the time Danny shot the film and will do the new season too.
He adds, "I love awards and I hope to feature in a film comprising Indian cast and crew some day which will go to win these awards. The success of 'Slumdog Millionaire' worldwide is an incentive to all Indian filmmakers."
And we always thought that the baadshah was totally in love with Bollywood only and didn't really care about anything else. It's nice to see him talk with an international perspective for a change!
SRK is not ashamed of Slumdog
Many critics and prominent industry people have been fuming about the fact that the Oscar nominated film 'Slumdog Millionaire' highlights the poverty in Mumbai.But the baadshah of Bollywood SRK has no problems with it.
He thinks that the poverty seen in the film is a reality and thinks it's wrong for people to become cynical when the film is getting international acclaim.
Khan, who has read the original book as well as the script says, "Isn't that (poverty and slums) a reality? If you (critics) have a problem with the word slumdog, why don't you look positively and see that there is a word millionaire or 'crorepati' also."
Khan, has returned from Los Angeles after a month-long schedule of Karan Johar's 'My name is Khan' and testified, "I have just returned from the US and people there have become crazy about the film and its music. The film's sound is also good apart from a good story and screenplay. The film deserves all awards."
However he doesn't regret turning down Anil Kapoor's role in the film.
He says maybe he wouldn't have done justice to the role of a game show host like Anil Kapoor. He was already hosting 'Kaun Banega Crorepati' (KBC) and later 'Kya Aap Panchvi Pass Se Tez Hai' during the time Danny shot the film and will do the new season too.
He adds, "I love awards and I hope to feature in a film comprising Indian cast and crew some day which will go to win these awards. The success of 'Slumdog Millionaire' worldwide is an incentive to all Indian filmmakers."
And we always thought that the baadshah was totally in love with Bollywood only and didn't really care about anything else. It's nice to see him talk with an international perspective for a change!
I look up to Sush when it comes to style: Deepika
She is young and beautiful. Her style and attitude reflects through her personality. Being a youth icon she has been offered many fashion brands but being choosy Deepika became brand ambassador of Levis.We asked her about her personal style and her favorite brands. Speaking about fashion she says, “I think when it comes to fashion there are certain things that will never goes out of style. Anything in black, saris and salwars will never go out of style. Denim is something that is here to stay will never go out of style.”
But who do you look up to when it comes to fashion? “I look up to Sushmita when it comes to style.” Deepika gives more importance to comfort when it come to fashion.
“I like to wear clothes that make me feel comfortable. I am not very band conscious person. One thing is most important for me is comfort. I have to be comfortable in whatever I am wearing.” She adds.
When Rishi Kapoor romanced Ranbir's first crush
How often is it that you see the best of two generations together? The answer is quite simple, almost never. Adding another feather to multi-talented Farhan Akhtar's hat is this week's show which promises not just to enthrall but even and as always entertain you. The episode features the chocolate boy of the yesteryears-Rishi Kapoor and the current heartthrob - his son Ranbir.
Farhan's upcoming film Luck By Chance is playing on everyone's mind and Farhan being the genius that he is has crafted this special episode for the film LBC.
There are obvious points of interest that should not be missed which we make easier for our readers:
- Relive the memories of the father-son duo - Rishi and Ranbir during the shooting of the film Luck By Chance along with co-star Isha Sharvani.
- The experienced Rishi Kapoor shares his tale of the tough time he had gone through during the shoot and also reveals the fun moments on the sets.
- While Ranbir Kapoor bares his heart out to Farhan as he confesses about his relationship with the beautiful Deepika Padukone. And yes he also talks about his first crush…
Ranbir pours his heart out and admits that he felt cheated when he saw his dad, Rishi Kapoor, romancing his childhood crush Madhuri Dixit, a source from the channel said.
"Ranbir confesses that as a teenager, he had a huge crush on Madhuri and that he even had posters of her in his cupboard. He talks about the time when he finally got to meet her on the sets of 'PremGranth' only to find his father romancing Madhuri in the film," the source said.
- This 'roller-coaster' episode also features a stylistic and acrobatic dance act by Isha Sharvani, and an entertaining skating performance straight from Germany. It's an all-round expose with the Kapoors' on 'Oye! It's Friday!' on January 30th at 10:00 p.m.IST only on NDTV Imagine.
If all this wasn't enough to get you moving, the special episode also features the ever gorgeous and breathtaking performance by the beautiful Isha Sharvani and her dance troupe.
This Luck By Chance special episode of 'Oye! It's Friday!' promises to be a fun, moving and flexible episode this week. So don't miss it.
I look up to Sush when it comes to style: Deepika
She is young and beautiful. Her style and attitude reflects through her personality. Being a youth icon she has been offered many fashion brands but being choosy Deepika became brand ambassador of Levis.We asked her about her personal style and her favorite brands. Speaking about fashion she says, “I think when it comes to fashion there are certain things that will never goes out of style. Anything in black, saris and salwars will never go out of style. Denim is something that is here to stay will never go out of style.”
But who do you look up to when it comes to fashion? “I look up to Sushmita when it comes to style.” Deepika gives more importance to comfort when it come to fashion.
“I like to wear clothes that make me feel comfortable. I am not very band conscious person. One thing is most important for me is comfort. I have to be comfortable in whatever I am wearing.” She adds.
When Rishi Kapoor romanced Ranbir's first crush
How often is it that you see the best of two generations together? The answer is quite simple, almost never. Adding another feather to multi-talented Farhan Akhtar's hat is this week's show which promises not just to enthrall but even and as always entertain you. The episode features the chocolate boy of the yesteryears-Rishi Kapoor and the current heartthrob - his son Ranbir.
Farhan's upcoming film Luck By Chance is playing on everyone's mind and Farhan being the genius that he is has crafted this special episode for the film LBC.
There are obvious points of interest that should not be missed which we make easier for our readers:
- Relive the memories of the father-son duo - Rishi and Ranbir during the shooting of the film Luck By Chance along with co-star Isha Sharvani.
- The experienced Rishi Kapoor shares his tale of the tough time he had gone through during the shoot and also reveals the fun moments on the sets.
- While Ranbir Kapoor bares his heart out to Farhan as he confesses about his relationship with the beautiful Deepika Padukone. And yes he also talks about his first crush…
Ranbir pours his heart out and admits that he felt cheated when he saw his dad, Rishi Kapoor, romancing his childhood crush Madhuri Dixit, a source from the channel said.
"Ranbir confesses that as a teenager, he had a huge crush on Madhuri and that he even had posters of her in his cupboard. He talks about the time when he finally got to meet her on the sets of 'PremGranth' only to find his father romancing Madhuri in the film," the source said.
- This 'roller-coaster' episode also features a stylistic and acrobatic dance act by Isha Sharvani, and an entertaining skating performance straight from Germany. It's an all-round expose with the Kapoors' on 'Oye! It's Friday!' on January 30th at 10:00 p.m.IST only on NDTV Imagine.
If all this wasn't enough to get you moving, the special episode also features the ever gorgeous and breathtaking performance by the beautiful Isha Sharvani and her dance troupe.
This Luck By Chance special episode of 'Oye! It's Friday!' promises to be a fun, moving and flexible episode this week. So don't miss it.
If SRK dances with me I will do it: Chitrangada
After making a comeback through Onir’s Sorry Bhai Chitrangada was in news recently. Apparently this talented actress refused to be part of Aamir Khan’s forthcoming film Delly Belly.Calling it as a rumour Chitrangada said “No nothing like that has happened. It’s just a misunderstanding. I too heard about it but no one came to me personally about the film. It just got out blow out of proportion. There was nothing like that.”
Chitrangada informs that she would love to work with Aamir in future. The actress doesn’t stop talking about Aamir. “I think Aamir has high credibility. He is amazing. He is a perfectionist and whatever he touches becomes perfect.”
This two film old actress is so much talented and all two films were non commercial films. “If a film makes sense to me I will do it. If Shahrukh dances with me I will do it.” she quips.
If SRK dances with me I will do it: Chitrangada
After making a comeback through Onir’s Sorry Bhai Chitrangada was in news recently. Apparently this talented actress refused to be part of Aamir Khan’s forthcoming film Delly Belly.Calling it as a rumour Chitrangada said “No nothing like that has happened. It’s just a misunderstanding. I too heard about it but no one came to me personally about the film. It just got out blow out of proportion. There was nothing like that.”
Chitrangada informs that she would love to work with Aamir in future. The actress doesn’t stop talking about Aamir. “I think Aamir has high credibility. He is amazing. He is a perfectionist and whatever he touches becomes perfect.”
This two film old actress is so much talented and all two films were non commercial films. “If a film makes sense to me I will do it. If Shahrukh dances with me I will do it.” she quips.
No more fun for Akshay Kumar
The shocking downfall of Nikhil Advani's Chandni Chowk To China has put a huge question mark on Akshay Kumar's ongoing comic journey. Most of his well-wishers in the industry seriously wish him to end his protracted attempts at comedy.
Says a director who has worked with Akshay, "Akshay Kumar has become progressively active in the process of writing scripts and shooting films. He freely makes suggestions some of which, I've to admit, are good. But quite often he wants to take over the project. When I went to him with another project he offered to co-produce it and get someone to re-write portions. It's obvious a lot of scenes in Chandni Chowk were re-written. The result shows."
Apparently, the Chandni Chowk To China writer Sridhar Raghavan was persuaded to continuously change the scenes until the writer (known for his skilled screenplay in Raj Santoshi's film) was a helpless puppet propelling the plot to destinations-unknown.
However, Akshay's staunch producer-director friends are more than happy to stand by him.Akshay's next crucial release Kambakht Ishq has very little of the comic element. "It's an out-and-out rom-com with stunts of an international order," informs producer Sajid Nadiadwala proudly. "And why are we jumping the gun just because one of his films hasn't lived up to expectations? There could be so many reasons for it. Why should Akshay be blamed for it? Why so much negativity about him? Is he the first superstar to disappoint audiences?"
Sajid shoots down rumours of seriously revamping the comic element in Kambakht Ishq. "Why would I do that? The film is what it is. I don't work with my actors based on how their last film did. Kambakht Ishq will have a lot to offer."
However, on the downside Akshay's pairing with Kareena Kapoor has hardly ever worked, their last few films being Suneel Darshan's Talaash, Dharmesh Darshan's Bewafaa and Yash Raj Films' Tashan.
Vipul Shah's film with Akshay Kumar and Aishwarya Bachchan which he launches in March is also not a comic romp. "But I don't think the failure of Chandni Chowk To China means that audiences have rejected him in the comic avatar. The backlash is totally uncalled-for. And it looks motivated by reasons other than the box-office. A lot of people have been waiting to pounce on Akshay. This is their opportunity," Vipul Shah defends his hero stoutly.
It is believed that apart from Priyadarshan's De Dana Dan which is an out-and-out comedy, Akshay Kumar forthcoming projects will seriously cut down or downplay the comic element.
"It's the Govinda factor at work again," says a director who wants to remain unnamed. "He did so much buffoonery on screen, Govinda made people forget there was more to him than meets the eye."
No more fun for Akshay Kumar
The shocking downfall of Nikhil Advani's Chandni Chowk To China has put a huge question mark on Akshay Kumar's ongoing comic journey. Most of his well-wishers in the industry seriously wish him to end his protracted attempts at comedy.
Says a director who has worked with Akshay, "Akshay Kumar has become progressively active in the process of writing scripts and shooting films. He freely makes suggestions some of which, I've to admit, are good. But quite often he wants to take over the project. When I went to him with another project he offered to co-produce it and get someone to re-write portions. It's obvious a lot of scenes in Chandni Chowk were re-written. The result shows."
Apparently, the Chandni Chowk To China writer Sridhar Raghavan was persuaded to continuously change the scenes until the writer (known for his skilled screenplay in Raj Santoshi's film) was a helpless puppet propelling the plot to destinations-unknown.
However, Akshay's staunch producer-director friends are more than happy to stand by him.Akshay's next crucial release Kambakht Ishq has very little of the comic element. "It's an out-and-out rom-com with stunts of an international order," informs producer Sajid Nadiadwala proudly. "And why are we jumping the gun just because one of his films hasn't lived up to expectations? There could be so many reasons for it. Why should Akshay be blamed for it? Why so much negativity about him? Is he the first superstar to disappoint audiences?"
Sajid shoots down rumours of seriously revamping the comic element in Kambakht Ishq. "Why would I do that? The film is what it is. I don't work with my actors based on how their last film did. Kambakht Ishq will have a lot to offer."
However, on the downside Akshay's pairing with Kareena Kapoor has hardly ever worked, their last few films being Suneel Darshan's Talaash, Dharmesh Darshan's Bewafaa and Yash Raj Films' Tashan.
Vipul Shah's film with Akshay Kumar and Aishwarya Bachchan which he launches in March is also not a comic romp. "But I don't think the failure of Chandni Chowk To China means that audiences have rejected him in the comic avatar. The backlash is totally uncalled-for. And it looks motivated by reasons other than the box-office. A lot of people have been waiting to pounce on Akshay. This is their opportunity," Vipul Shah defends his hero stoutly.
It is believed that apart from Priyadarshan's De Dana Dan which is an out-and-out comedy, Akshay Kumar forthcoming projects will seriously cut down or downplay the comic element.
"It's the Govinda factor at work again," says a director who wants to remain unnamed. "He did so much buffoonery on screen, Govinda made people forget there was more to him than meets the eye."
Katrina Kaif nominated for Best Indian award
Plaudits and titles just keep coming Katrina Kaif ’s way. Now, she has bagged a nomination for the Best Indian award.It may appear a bit odd for a girl who was raised in London to get nominated by a TV channel for the Best Indian award, but that’s what seems to have happened. Katrina is the only second woman to be nominated for the title this year apart from Indian President Pratibha Patil.
Katrina is also the second actress from the film industry to be ever considered for the title. The only other actress who got nominated in the past is Aishwarya
Katrina Kaif nominated for Best Indian award
Plaudits and titles just keep coming Katrina Kaif ’s way. Now, she has bagged a nomination for the Best Indian award.It may appear a bit odd for a girl who was raised in London to get nominated by a TV channel for the Best Indian award, but that’s what seems to have happened. Katrina is the only second woman to be nominated for the title this year apart from Indian President Pratibha Patil.
Katrina is also the second actress from the film industry to be ever considered for the title. The only other actress who got nominated in the past is Aishwarya
AISHWARYA RAI IS VERY VERY JEALOUS OF KATRINA KAIF
Aishwarya says Katrina bought the FHM award
A few days ago we reported that Abhishek Bachchan was not happy about Harman Baweja getting signed by ace director Ashutosh Gowarikar… the jealousy of this was seen on Aby’s Baby’s face at the IIFA fashion show where Harman walked the ramp. Now, we hear that Abhishek’s wife Aishwarya has joined him on the ladder of jealousy…
Aishwarya is amazed as to how fellow actress Katrina Kaif has been declared the sexiest Asian woman by FHM. Apparently Ash has been joking that Kat must’ve paid a handsome amount to get on the cover. Ash has been saying she’s been here long enough to know how undeserving actresses end up on the covers of international magazines and Katrina definitely isn’t in the league to make it there!
WHAT? Long enough to know how to BE FAKE, CRY CROCODILE TEARS, BE INCESTUOUS.Well we say KATRINA KAIF WIN ALL ODDS WITH THIS FIGHT.Oh wait, it's not even a fight, it's just you AISH.
A few days ago we reported that Abhishek Bachchan was not happy about Harman Baweja getting signed by ace director Ashutosh Gowarikar… the jealousy of this was seen on Aby’s Baby’s face at the IIFA fashion show where Harman walked the ramp. Now, we hear that Abhishek’s wife Aishwarya has joined him on the ladder of jealousy…
Aishwarya is amazed as to how fellow actress Katrina Kaif has been declared the sexiest Asian woman by FHM. Apparently Ash has been joking that Kat must’ve paid a handsome amount to get on the cover. Ash has been saying she’s been here long enough to know how undeserving actresses end up on the covers of international magazines and Katrina definitely isn’t in the league to make it there!
WHAT? Long enough to know how to BE FAKE, CRY CROCODILE TEARS, BE INCESTUOUS.Well we say KATRINA KAIF WIN ALL ODDS WITH THIS FIGHT.Oh wait, it's not even a fight, it's just you AISH.
AISHWARYA RAI IS VERY VERY JEALOUS OF KATRINA KAIF
Aishwarya says Katrina bought the FHM award
A few days ago we reported that Abhishek Bachchan was not happy about Harman Baweja getting signed by ace director Ashutosh Gowarikar… the jealousy of this was seen on Aby’s Baby’s face at the IIFA fashion show where Harman walked the ramp. Now, we hear that Abhishek’s wife Aishwarya has joined him on the ladder of jealousy…
Aishwarya is amazed as to how fellow actress Katrina Kaif has been declared the sexiest Asian woman by FHM. Apparently Ash has been joking that Kat must’ve paid a handsome amount to get on the cover. Ash has been saying she’s been here long enough to know how undeserving actresses end up on the covers of international magazines and Katrina definitely isn’t in the league to make it there!
WHAT? Long enough to know how to BE FAKE, CRY CROCODILE TEARS, BE INCESTUOUS.Well we say KATRINA KAIF WIN ALL ODDS WITH THIS FIGHT.Oh wait, it's not even a fight, it's just you AISH.
A few days ago we reported that Abhishek Bachchan was not happy about Harman Baweja getting signed by ace director Ashutosh Gowarikar… the jealousy of this was seen on Aby’s Baby’s face at the IIFA fashion show where Harman walked the ramp. Now, we hear that Abhishek’s wife Aishwarya has joined him on the ladder of jealousy…
Aishwarya is amazed as to how fellow actress Katrina Kaif has been declared the sexiest Asian woman by FHM. Apparently Ash has been joking that Kat must’ve paid a handsome amount to get on the cover. Ash has been saying she’s been here long enough to know how undeserving actresses end up on the covers of international magazines and Katrina definitely isn’t in the league to make it there!
WHAT? Long enough to know how to BE FAKE, CRY CROCODILE TEARS, BE INCESTUOUS.Well we say KATRINA KAIF WIN ALL ODDS WITH THIS FIGHT.Oh wait, it's not even a fight, it's just you AISH.
Salman Khan shoots for Katrina Kaif starrer
Despite the rumours of their impending split which never seems to happen, Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif are going steady as ever.Early this week, Salman shot for the Katrina starrer Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani . Ironically, rumours recently alleged that it was while shooting this very film that Katrina was getting attracted to her male co-star Ranbir Kapoor .
But there was no tension on Salman’s face as he shot for the Rajkumar Santoshi -directed film recently. Salman has only a guest appearance in the movie.
Salman Khan shoots for Katrina Kaif starrer
Despite the rumours of their impending split which never seems to happen, Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif are going steady as ever.Early this week, Salman shot for the Katrina starrer Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani . Ironically, rumours recently alleged that it was while shooting this very film that Katrina was getting attracted to her male co-star Ranbir Kapoor .
But there was no tension on Salman’s face as he shot for the Rajkumar Santoshi -directed film recently. Salman has only a guest appearance in the movie.
Katrina and Ranbir Struggle with Dance Steps
Mumbai, Jan 28: Neither of them is clumsy-footed. Yet Katrina Kaif and Ranbir Kapoor had difficulty getting a dance step right.
Choreographer Ahmed Khan really put the two stars to task while shooting the song ‘Follow Me’ for director Rajkumar Santoshi ’s film Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani . The song is a rap number and Ahmed came up with a really difficult dance step for Katrina and Ranbir.
When the two actors tried the step, they just couldn’t do it. And when they kept failing after repeated attempts, Kat and Ranbir asked Ahmed Khan to change the step.
But Ahmed was adamant. Even though Katrina and Ranbir argued with him, the choreographer didn’t relent. He wanted the two stars to perform the same step he had choreographed.
So Katrina and Ranbir had no option but to get the step right. It took them three days of rehearsal to do it. Finally, the two stars danced with such flair that they left Ahmed Khan impressed.
The choreographer says ‘Follow Me’ has the best dance by Ranbir yet.
Katrina and Ranbir Struggle with Dance Steps
Mumbai, Jan 28: Neither of them is clumsy-footed. Yet Katrina Kaif and Ranbir Kapoor had difficulty getting a dance step right.
Choreographer Ahmed Khan really put the two stars to task while shooting the song ‘Follow Me’ for director Rajkumar Santoshi ’s film Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani . The song is a rap number and Ahmed came up with a really difficult dance step for Katrina and Ranbir.
When the two actors tried the step, they just couldn’t do it. And when they kept failing after repeated attempts, Kat and Ranbir asked Ahmed Khan to change the step.
But Ahmed was adamant. Even though Katrina and Ranbir argued with him, the choreographer didn’t relent. He wanted the two stars to perform the same step he had choreographed.
So Katrina and Ranbir had no option but to get the step right. It took them three days of rehearsal to do it. Finally, the two stars danced with such flair that they left Ahmed Khan impressed.
The choreographer says ‘Follow Me’ has the best dance by Ranbir yet.
Katrina Kaif Replaces Aishwarya Rai
Katrina Kaif Replaces Aishwarya RaiAfter dethroning Aishwarya Rai from the numero uno position in Bollywood, Katrina Kaif is fast emerging as a threat to her in the brand endorsement circuit as well. The hot actress recently replaced Aishwarya to become the new brand ambassador of a prominent diamond jewellery brand.
Known for her sensuality as well as her feminine charm, Katrina reveals why she chose to endorse the brand. "Be it a skin, hair or a jewellery product, I am very selective about the brands I endorse. I undertake extensive research on the company and try to ensure that the brand delivers on its promises made to the user of the product," proclaims a beaming Katrina.
Looking graceful in a white gown and bedecked with exquisite diamond jewellery, Katrina also shed light on her much appreciated on-screen chemistry with Akshay Kumar. "He's really hard working and has boundless energy. These traits are really inspirational and on top of that he's an absolutely wonderful person to work with," says the Welcome girl.
Known for her sensuality as well as her feminine charm, Katrina reveals why she chose to endorse the brand. "Be it a skin, hair or a jewellery product, I am very selective about the brands I endorse. I undertake extensive research on the company and try to ensure that the brand delivers on its promises made to the user of the product," proclaims a beaming Katrina.
Looking graceful in a white gown and bedecked with exquisite diamond jewellery, Katrina also shed light on her much appreciated on-screen chemistry with Akshay Kumar. "He's really hard working and has boundless energy. These traits are really inspirational and on top of that he's an absolutely wonderful person to work with," says the Welcome girl.
Katrina Kaif Replaces Aishwarya Rai
Katrina Kaif Replaces Aishwarya RaiAfter dethroning Aishwarya Rai from the numero uno position in Bollywood, Katrina Kaif is fast emerging as a threat to her in the brand endorsement circuit as well. The hot actress recently replaced Aishwarya to become the new brand ambassador of a prominent diamond jewellery brand.
Known for her sensuality as well as her feminine charm, Katrina reveals why she chose to endorse the brand. "Be it a skin, hair or a jewellery product, I am very selective about the brands I endorse. I undertake extensive research on the company and try to ensure that the brand delivers on its promises made to the user of the product," proclaims a beaming Katrina.
Looking graceful in a white gown and bedecked with exquisite diamond jewellery, Katrina also shed light on her much appreciated on-screen chemistry with Akshay Kumar. "He's really hard working and has boundless energy. These traits are really inspirational and on top of that he's an absolutely wonderful person to work with," says the Welcome girl.
Known for her sensuality as well as her feminine charm, Katrina reveals why she chose to endorse the brand. "Be it a skin, hair or a jewellery product, I am very selective about the brands I endorse. I undertake extensive research on the company and try to ensure that the brand delivers on its promises made to the user of the product," proclaims a beaming Katrina.
Looking graceful in a white gown and bedecked with exquisite diamond jewellery, Katrina also shed light on her much appreciated on-screen chemistry with Akshay Kumar. "He's really hard working and has boundless energy. These traits are really inspirational and on top of that he's an absolutely wonderful person to work with," says the Welcome girl.
Katrina Kaif to perform in Delhi
MUMBAI: Katrina is currently shooting for Raj Kumar Santoshi's Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani in Mumabi and will continue to shoot till the 30 January. After which she will fly to Delhi to perform at a beauty pageant on 31January.
Post the success of her films and being tagged as the sexiest woman by a magazine poll, Katrina is much in demand for such events. The actress gets paid almost Rs 50 lakhs per show for a performance of five minutes. Her business manager confirmed, "Katrina will be in Delhi for a day, as she has to return back to Mumbai for the shooting of her films, Rajniti and De Dhana Dhan."
It's raining moolah for a Kaif along with accolades for her films. And with each successful film, the stakes are only getting higher for her.
Post the success of her films and being tagged as the sexiest woman by a magazine poll, Katrina is much in demand for such events. The actress gets paid almost Rs 50 lakhs per show for a performance of five minutes. Her business manager confirmed, "Katrina will be in Delhi for a day, as she has to return back to Mumbai for the shooting of her films, Rajniti and De Dhana Dhan."
It's raining moolah for a Kaif along with accolades for her films. And with each successful film, the stakes are only getting higher for her.
Katrina Kaif to perform in Delhi
MUMBAI: Katrina is currently shooting for Raj Kumar Santoshi's Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani in Mumabi and will continue to shoot till the 30 January. After which she will fly to Delhi to perform at a beauty pageant on 31January.
Post the success of her films and being tagged as the sexiest woman by a magazine poll, Katrina is much in demand for such events. The actress gets paid almost Rs 50 lakhs per show for a performance of five minutes. Her business manager confirmed, "Katrina will be in Delhi for a day, as she has to return back to Mumbai for the shooting of her films, Rajniti and De Dhana Dhan."
It's raining moolah for a Kaif along with accolades for her films. And with each successful film, the stakes are only getting higher for her.
Post the success of her films and being tagged as the sexiest woman by a magazine poll, Katrina is much in demand for such events. The actress gets paid almost Rs 50 lakhs per show for a performance of five minutes. Her business manager confirmed, "Katrina will be in Delhi for a day, as she has to return back to Mumbai for the shooting of her films, Rajniti and De Dhana Dhan."
It's raining moolah for a Kaif along with accolades for her films. And with each successful film, the stakes are only getting higher for her.
Word on the Street: What Makes Katrina Kaif Hot
Katrina Kaif is one hot actress! She was, after all, the most searched Indian celebrity on Google last year and is the reigning sexiest woman in the world as voted by FHM India. Desi Hits! wanted to know what people who have never heard of this Bollywood sensation think of her beauty. So we hit the streets of New York City to get unbiased opinions, from real people. We roamed the streets with photos of Katrina Kaif's face, boobs, and legs. We wanted to know which physical feature they thought is Katrina Kaif's best asset. And what feature makes Katrina Kaif so hot! Then we had a full body shot and wanted to know if they think Katrina Kaif is hot or not. We got some typical answers that you would expect. Most folks thought that she was a very hot girl. One person that we interviewed couldn't even decide on which physical feature was her best; he liked them all. Others were not so keen on the actress. Some people did not see what all the fuss was about this girl. One guy went as far as to say that she had a goofy looking face. Ouch! I guess it is true what they say: Beauty truly is in the eye of the beholder! Check out the photos below to see what everyone on the streets had to say about the sexy Katrina Kaif. Then let us know your thoughts. Which feature do you think is Katrina Kaif's best?
Word on the Street: What Makes Katrina Kaif Hot
Katrina Kaif is one hot actress! She was, after all, the most searched Indian celebrity on Google last year and is the reigning sexiest woman in the world as voted by FHM India. Desi Hits! wanted to know what people who have never heard of this Bollywood sensation think of her beauty. So we hit the streets of New York City to get unbiased opinions, from real people. We roamed the streets with photos of Katrina Kaif's face, boobs, and legs. We wanted to know which physical feature they thought is Katrina Kaif's best asset. And what feature makes Katrina Kaif so hot! Then we had a full body shot and wanted to know if they think Katrina Kaif is hot or not. We got some typical answers that you would expect. Most folks thought that she was a very hot girl. One person that we interviewed couldn't even decide on which physical feature was her best; he liked them all. Others were not so keen on the actress. Some people did not see what all the fuss was about this girl. One guy went as far as to say that she had a goofy looking face. Ouch! I guess it is true what they say: Beauty truly is in the eye of the beholder! Check out the photos below to see what everyone on the streets had to say about the sexy Katrina Kaif. Then let us know your thoughts. Which feature do you think is Katrina Kaif's best?
Saif Ali Khan's title blues continue!
Saif Ali Khan's first home production, starring himself opposite Deepika Padukone has completed shooting but it is still yet to be given an apt title. It seems the Chote Nawab, Imtiaz Ali and title confusions go hand in hand nowadays as one can clearly remember Saif's last release, Thoda Pyar Thoda Magic too faced a similar probled and was given its title just weeks before its release. Whereas Imtiaz's last directed film, Jab We Met to had a title fixation problem and a online poll was introduced to finalise the title.
Saif Ali Khan's title blues continue!
Saif Ali Khan's first home production, starring himself opposite Deepika Padukone has completed shooting but it is still yet to be given an apt title. It seems the Chote Nawab, Imtiaz Ali and title confusions go hand in hand nowadays as one can clearly remember Saif's last release, Thoda Pyar Thoda Magic too faced a similar probled and was given its title just weeks before its release. Whereas Imtiaz's last directed film, Jab We Met to had a title fixation problem and a online poll was introduced to finalise the title.
Saif and Deepika in 'Love Aaj Kal'
Like most of the heroes in Bollywood, Saif too has kick started his production house. The film is being directed by Imtiaz Ali. The film sees Saif and Deepika in the lead role and is nearing completion.
The film was not christened so far and was called by different names. Some technicians called it 'Production No.1', because this is the first film to be produced by the 'chote nawab'.
Insiders say that after a lot of thought the director, Imtiaz Ali and the producer, Saif Ali Khan sat together and decided the name as 'Love Aaj Kal'.
Sure, sounds apt for a Saif Ali Khan film. But there are rumors doing the rounds that the director is still not very happy with the name.
The film has been shot at various locales of London, California and Kolkata. Sources suggest that Saif wanted a mix of English and Hindi names for the film.
Since the director's previous flick 'Jab We Met' starring Shahid and Kareena did well at the box office we hope 'Love Aaj Kal' too would have the same effect on the film buffs. The name 'Love Aaj Kal' sounds very contemporary and seems to win the approval of the audience.
Saif and Deepika in 'Love Aaj Kal'
Like most of the heroes in Bollywood, Saif too has kick started his production house. The film is being directed by Imtiaz Ali. The film sees Saif and Deepika in the lead role and is nearing completion.
The film was not christened so far and was called by different names. Some technicians called it 'Production No.1', because this is the first film to be produced by the 'chote nawab'.
Insiders say that after a lot of thought the director, Imtiaz Ali and the producer, Saif Ali Khan sat together and decided the name as 'Love Aaj Kal'.
Sure, sounds apt for a Saif Ali Khan film. But there are rumors doing the rounds that the director is still not very happy with the name.
The film has been shot at various locales of London, California and Kolkata. Sources suggest that Saif wanted a mix of English and Hindi names for the film.
Since the director's previous flick 'Jab We Met' starring Shahid and Kareena did well at the box office we hope 'Love Aaj Kal' too would have the same effect on the film buffs. The name 'Love Aaj Kal' sounds very contemporary and seems to win the approval of the audience.
No hero wanted to play grey; Farhan got the role by default" - Zoya Akhtar
So you thought it was problem for our heroes to play gay? Try grey.
Saif Ali Khan and Viveik Oberoi wanted her to change the ending. They didn't want to play a Bollywood struggler in Zoya Akhtar's directorial debut. Zoya virtually had to bang on all the big doors of Bollywood until Big Brother barged in.
Being the illustrious Javed Akhtar's daughter and the cool-dude Farhan's kid sister didn't help Zoya Akhtar. She had to go through the grind with one hero after another.
"It doesn't help to be this one's daughter and that one's sister. I got a foot in the door. Farhan's name got me access to the stars. But no one does a film for who has sent you. I went through these times when I felt I just didn't fit in. I went through these lows when I wondered when I'd finally be able to make a film. But the trick was to hang in there. Thank God for family and friends. Thank God for Farhan. They kept my morale from sagging to ground level."
Finally, the wait was worth it for Zoya. "I got the cast I wanted and now the climate in the movie theatres has changed drastically. Audiences are open to all kinds of experiences. This is the best time for me to come out. When I started casting for Luck By Chance not that many directors were willing to push the envelope. The thing about my film is that the hero is a bit of an ambitious, user and liar. A lot of our heroes were apprehensive playing a grey character. They wanted me to change the end to make the protagonist look brighter. I refused. You've to stick to your convictions. "
According to Zoya, Farhan getting the part of the Bollywood struggler was the best thing to happen to Luck By Chance. "It was Reema Kagti (who directed Honeymoon Travels Pvt Ltd) who suggested I sign Farhan in the lead. She was the first person to approach Farhan for a part. He was supposed to play Abhay Deol's part in Reema's film. But the dates clashed with Don. Reema suggested I do Luck By Chance with Farhan. It was the best decision I could make. He knew the script in and out. He was part of it from the first draft. And every time an actor would say no to my film I'd discuss it with him and wonder where I was going wrong. I didn't feel insecure. I felt sad and angry. I never felt what I was making was wrong. No one close to me suggested that I make change in the script to make the hero less grey."
Recalling those months of waiting Zoya says, "The hardest part was the endless waiting to find the actor. I was dying to get behind the camera. My producer Ritesh Sidhwani kept telling me not to get low we'll find the right guy. Little did we realize that the right guy was sitting in the room with us."
Before signing Farhan, Zoya saw Farhan in his acting debut The Fakir of Venice which never got released. I've grown up with Farhan. I always knew he wanted to be an actor. In fact when he announced he wanted to be a director we were surprised. We knew he was a performer. When I spoke to him about Luck By Chance he was totally cool about it."
Farhan signed Luck By Chance before Rock On. "Rock On needed less preparation than Luck By Chance. Farhan gave me the option of doing my film before or after Rock On. I chose to let him do Rock On first. I'm not afraid of the comparisons. He plays a completely different character in Luck By Chance. There's no rock star act in my film. I'm very happy with my brother's performance."
Being a casting director, Zoya has seen these strugglers first-hand. "I know the character Farhan plays. I've met him before this film. And I've cast lots of actors and stars from the industry either as themselves or as characters. Anurag Kashyap doesn't play himself. He plays a writer in two scenes."
Zoya can't praise her leading lady Konkona Sen Sharma enough. "She completely spoils a director with her disciplined approach. I wonder how I'll find another actress to match her easygoing professionalism. She was literally a part of our crew. Where will I find someone who's brilliant and so easy to work with?"
Hrithik Roshan is not doing an item song alone. "He plays a star named Zafar Khan. Getting him was quite easy. I was working with him in another film Kismat Talkies. And when that got delayed I started to go back to the one that I wanted to do earlier. He liked Luck By Chance too and wanted to play Zafar Khan. His song is homage to all the item songs in Bollywood."
On the sets Zoya had to forget her leading man was her brother. "I maintained certain decorum with Farhan, it was hard. I tried to keep him not involved with what was going on off-camera, so he'd focus on what he was doing. Farhan and I share a very close relationship. I've worked with him in various capacities."
She ends, "My film is about success and failure, winning and losing and self-worth. It could've been set in any other industry
Saif Ali Khan and Viveik Oberoi wanted her to change the ending. They didn't want to play a Bollywood struggler in Zoya Akhtar's directorial debut. Zoya virtually had to bang on all the big doors of Bollywood until Big Brother barged in.
Being the illustrious Javed Akhtar's daughter and the cool-dude Farhan's kid sister didn't help Zoya Akhtar. She had to go through the grind with one hero after another.
"It doesn't help to be this one's daughter and that one's sister. I got a foot in the door. Farhan's name got me access to the stars. But no one does a film for who has sent you. I went through these times when I felt I just didn't fit in. I went through these lows when I wondered when I'd finally be able to make a film. But the trick was to hang in there. Thank God for family and friends. Thank God for Farhan. They kept my morale from sagging to ground level."
Finally, the wait was worth it for Zoya. "I got the cast I wanted and now the climate in the movie theatres has changed drastically. Audiences are open to all kinds of experiences. This is the best time for me to come out. When I started casting for Luck By Chance not that many directors were willing to push the envelope. The thing about my film is that the hero is a bit of an ambitious, user and liar. A lot of our heroes were apprehensive playing a grey character. They wanted me to change the end to make the protagonist look brighter. I refused. You've to stick to your convictions. "
According to Zoya, Farhan getting the part of the Bollywood struggler was the best thing to happen to Luck By Chance. "It was Reema Kagti (who directed Honeymoon Travels Pvt Ltd) who suggested I sign Farhan in the lead. She was the first person to approach Farhan for a part. He was supposed to play Abhay Deol's part in Reema's film. But the dates clashed with Don. Reema suggested I do Luck By Chance with Farhan. It was the best decision I could make. He knew the script in and out. He was part of it from the first draft. And every time an actor would say no to my film I'd discuss it with him and wonder where I was going wrong. I didn't feel insecure. I felt sad and angry. I never felt what I was making was wrong. No one close to me suggested that I make change in the script to make the hero less grey."Recalling those months of waiting Zoya says, "The hardest part was the endless waiting to find the actor. I was dying to get behind the camera. My producer Ritesh Sidhwani kept telling me not to get low we'll find the right guy. Little did we realize that the right guy was sitting in the room with us."
Before signing Farhan, Zoya saw Farhan in his acting debut The Fakir of Venice which never got released. I've grown up with Farhan. I always knew he wanted to be an actor. In fact when he announced he wanted to be a director we were surprised. We knew he was a performer. When I spoke to him about Luck By Chance he was totally cool about it."
Farhan signed Luck By Chance before Rock On. "Rock On needed less preparation than Luck By Chance. Farhan gave me the option of doing my film before or after Rock On. I chose to let him do Rock On first. I'm not afraid of the comparisons. He plays a completely different character in Luck By Chance. There's no rock star act in my film. I'm very happy with my brother's performance."
Being a casting director, Zoya has seen these strugglers first-hand. "I know the character Farhan plays. I've met him before this film. And I've cast lots of actors and stars from the industry either as themselves or as characters. Anurag Kashyap doesn't play himself. He plays a writer in two scenes."Zoya can't praise her leading lady Konkona Sen Sharma enough. "She completely spoils a director with her disciplined approach. I wonder how I'll find another actress to match her easygoing professionalism. She was literally a part of our crew. Where will I find someone who's brilliant and so easy to work with?"
Hrithik Roshan is not doing an item song alone. "He plays a star named Zafar Khan. Getting him was quite easy. I was working with him in another film Kismat Talkies. And when that got delayed I started to go back to the one that I wanted to do earlier. He liked Luck By Chance too and wanted to play Zafar Khan. His song is homage to all the item songs in Bollywood."
On the sets Zoya had to forget her leading man was her brother. "I maintained certain decorum with Farhan, it was hard. I tried to keep him not involved with what was going on off-camera, so he'd focus on what he was doing. Farhan and I share a very close relationship. I've worked with him in various capacities."
She ends, "My film is about success and failure, winning and losing and self-worth. It could've been set in any other industry
No hero wanted to play grey; Farhan got the role by default" - Zoya Akhtar
So you thought it was problem for our heroes to play gay? Try grey.
Saif Ali Khan and Viveik Oberoi wanted her to change the ending. They didn't want to play a Bollywood struggler in Zoya Akhtar's directorial debut. Zoya virtually had to bang on all the big doors of Bollywood until Big Brother barged in.
Being the illustrious Javed Akhtar's daughter and the cool-dude Farhan's kid sister didn't help Zoya Akhtar. She had to go through the grind with one hero after another.
"It doesn't help to be this one's daughter and that one's sister. I got a foot in the door. Farhan's name got me access to the stars. But no one does a film for who has sent you. I went through these times when I felt I just didn't fit in. I went through these lows when I wondered when I'd finally be able to make a film. But the trick was to hang in there. Thank God for family and friends. Thank God for Farhan. They kept my morale from sagging to ground level."
Finally, the wait was worth it for Zoya. "I got the cast I wanted and now the climate in the movie theatres has changed drastically. Audiences are open to all kinds of experiences. This is the best time for me to come out. When I started casting for Luck By Chance not that many directors were willing to push the envelope. The thing about my film is that the hero is a bit of an ambitious, user and liar. A lot of our heroes were apprehensive playing a grey character. They wanted me to change the end to make the protagonist look brighter. I refused. You've to stick to your convictions. "
According to Zoya, Farhan getting the part of the Bollywood struggler was the best thing to happen to Luck By Chance. "It was Reema Kagti (who directed Honeymoon Travels Pvt Ltd) who suggested I sign Farhan in the lead. She was the first person to approach Farhan for a part. He was supposed to play Abhay Deol's part in Reema's film. But the dates clashed with Don. Reema suggested I do Luck By Chance with Farhan. It was the best decision I could make. He knew the script in and out. He was part of it from the first draft. And every time an actor would say no to my film I'd discuss it with him and wonder where I was going wrong. I didn't feel insecure. I felt sad and angry. I never felt what I was making was wrong. No one close to me suggested that I make change in the script to make the hero less grey."
Recalling those months of waiting Zoya says, "The hardest part was the endless waiting to find the actor. I was dying to get behind the camera. My producer Ritesh Sidhwani kept telling me not to get low we'll find the right guy. Little did we realize that the right guy was sitting in the room with us."
Before signing Farhan, Zoya saw Farhan in his acting debut The Fakir of Venice which never got released. I've grown up with Farhan. I always knew he wanted to be an actor. In fact when he announced he wanted to be a director we were surprised. We knew he was a performer. When I spoke to him about Luck By Chance he was totally cool about it."
Farhan signed Luck By Chance before Rock On. "Rock On needed less preparation than Luck By Chance. Farhan gave me the option of doing my film before or after Rock On. I chose to let him do Rock On first. I'm not afraid of the comparisons. He plays a completely different character in Luck By Chance. There's no rock star act in my film. I'm very happy with my brother's performance."
Being a casting director, Zoya has seen these strugglers first-hand. "I know the character Farhan plays. I've met him before this film. And I've cast lots of actors and stars from the industry either as themselves or as characters. Anurag Kashyap doesn't play himself. He plays a writer in two scenes."
Zoya can't praise her leading lady Konkona Sen Sharma enough. "She completely spoils a director with her disciplined approach. I wonder how I'll find another actress to match her easygoing professionalism. She was literally a part of our crew. Where will I find someone who's brilliant and so easy to work with?"
Hrithik Roshan is not doing an item song alone. "He plays a star named Zafar Khan. Getting him was quite easy. I was working with him in another film Kismat Talkies. And when that got delayed I started to go back to the one that I wanted to do earlier. He liked Luck By Chance too and wanted to play Zafar Khan. His song is homage to all the item songs in Bollywood."
On the sets Zoya had to forget her leading man was her brother. "I maintained certain decorum with Farhan, it was hard. I tried to keep him not involved with what was going on off-camera, so he'd focus on what he was doing. Farhan and I share a very close relationship. I've worked with him in various capacities."
She ends, "My film is about success and failure, winning and losing and self-worth. It could've been set in any other industry
Saif Ali Khan and Viveik Oberoi wanted her to change the ending. They didn't want to play a Bollywood struggler in Zoya Akhtar's directorial debut. Zoya virtually had to bang on all the big doors of Bollywood until Big Brother barged in.
Being the illustrious Javed Akhtar's daughter and the cool-dude Farhan's kid sister didn't help Zoya Akhtar. She had to go through the grind with one hero after another.
"It doesn't help to be this one's daughter and that one's sister. I got a foot in the door. Farhan's name got me access to the stars. But no one does a film for who has sent you. I went through these times when I felt I just didn't fit in. I went through these lows when I wondered when I'd finally be able to make a film. But the trick was to hang in there. Thank God for family and friends. Thank God for Farhan. They kept my morale from sagging to ground level."
Finally, the wait was worth it for Zoya. "I got the cast I wanted and now the climate in the movie theatres has changed drastically. Audiences are open to all kinds of experiences. This is the best time for me to come out. When I started casting for Luck By Chance not that many directors were willing to push the envelope. The thing about my film is that the hero is a bit of an ambitious, user and liar. A lot of our heroes were apprehensive playing a grey character. They wanted me to change the end to make the protagonist look brighter. I refused. You've to stick to your convictions. "
According to Zoya, Farhan getting the part of the Bollywood struggler was the best thing to happen to Luck By Chance. "It was Reema Kagti (who directed Honeymoon Travels Pvt Ltd) who suggested I sign Farhan in the lead. She was the first person to approach Farhan for a part. He was supposed to play Abhay Deol's part in Reema's film. But the dates clashed with Don. Reema suggested I do Luck By Chance with Farhan. It was the best decision I could make. He knew the script in and out. He was part of it from the first draft. And every time an actor would say no to my film I'd discuss it with him and wonder where I was going wrong. I didn't feel insecure. I felt sad and angry. I never felt what I was making was wrong. No one close to me suggested that I make change in the script to make the hero less grey."Recalling those months of waiting Zoya says, "The hardest part was the endless waiting to find the actor. I was dying to get behind the camera. My producer Ritesh Sidhwani kept telling me not to get low we'll find the right guy. Little did we realize that the right guy was sitting in the room with us."
Before signing Farhan, Zoya saw Farhan in his acting debut The Fakir of Venice which never got released. I've grown up with Farhan. I always knew he wanted to be an actor. In fact when he announced he wanted to be a director we were surprised. We knew he was a performer. When I spoke to him about Luck By Chance he was totally cool about it."
Farhan signed Luck By Chance before Rock On. "Rock On needed less preparation than Luck By Chance. Farhan gave me the option of doing my film before or after Rock On. I chose to let him do Rock On first. I'm not afraid of the comparisons. He plays a completely different character in Luck By Chance. There's no rock star act in my film. I'm very happy with my brother's performance."
Being a casting director, Zoya has seen these strugglers first-hand. "I know the character Farhan plays. I've met him before this film. And I've cast lots of actors and stars from the industry either as themselves or as characters. Anurag Kashyap doesn't play himself. He plays a writer in two scenes."Zoya can't praise her leading lady Konkona Sen Sharma enough. "She completely spoils a director with her disciplined approach. I wonder how I'll find another actress to match her easygoing professionalism. She was literally a part of our crew. Where will I find someone who's brilliant and so easy to work with?"
Hrithik Roshan is not doing an item song alone. "He plays a star named Zafar Khan. Getting him was quite easy. I was working with him in another film Kismat Talkies. And when that got delayed I started to go back to the one that I wanted to do earlier. He liked Luck By Chance too and wanted to play Zafar Khan. His song is homage to all the item songs in Bollywood."
On the sets Zoya had to forget her leading man was her brother. "I maintained certain decorum with Farhan, it was hard. I tried to keep him not involved with what was going on off-camera, so he'd focus on what he was doing. Farhan and I share a very close relationship. I've worked with him in various capacities."
She ends, "My film is about success and failure, winning and losing and self-worth. It could've been set in any other industry
No More Cold Vibes for Bebo and Sallu
Once upon a time, Kareena Kapoor and Salman Khan used to be “thick as thieves.” The duo were seen together in Kyon Ki, which unfortunately didn’t fare well at the box office but their friendship was in tact. However, once Bebo decided to start dating ex-beau Shahid Kapur, the friendship went dud. Major differences between Shahid and Salman, during the 2006 Rock Stars concert, caught Kareena in a web where she had to choose between co-star and good friend or lover. She, of course, chose the then love of her life.
But that is all history. Kapur and Kapoor no longer date, and since then the lady lass has moved on to Saif Ali Khan as her boy toy. Currently, Salman and Kareena are shooting for Main Aur Mrs Khanna and the vibes could cut ice according to onlookers. While their chemistry onscreen is one to be seen and deemed “sizzling” after any shot was over, the duo would head to their own vans. In fact, when it came to discussing a scene, director Prem Soni would have to individually sit down with the actors and go through the setting.
However, one day on the sets, an intricate scene was to be shot and Bebo decided to take it upon herself to settle the battle. She walked up to Salman and asked to discuss the scene with him. At first Sallu Miyan was shocked but after a while realized that this cold war was clearly over. The duo were then seen laughing and giggling which made director Soni sigh with relief. Additionally, current boyfriend Saif Ali Khan’s company helped to ease tensions. It clearly was a happy day on the sets for the crew and for sister Karisma too, who is good friends with Salman.
All's well that ends well. The duo have repaired their damaged friendship and we await the release of the film to see the garam onscreen chemistry they both apparently share.
But that is all history. Kapur and Kapoor no longer date, and since then the lady lass has moved on to Saif Ali Khan as her boy toy. Currently, Salman and Kareena are shooting for Main Aur Mrs Khanna and the vibes could cut ice according to onlookers. While their chemistry onscreen is one to be seen and deemed “sizzling” after any shot was over, the duo would head to their own vans. In fact, when it came to discussing a scene, director Prem Soni would have to individually sit down with the actors and go through the setting.
However, one day on the sets, an intricate scene was to be shot and Bebo decided to take it upon herself to settle the battle. She walked up to Salman and asked to discuss the scene with him. At first Sallu Miyan was shocked but after a while realized that this cold war was clearly over. The duo were then seen laughing and giggling which made director Soni sigh with relief. Additionally, current boyfriend Saif Ali Khan’s company helped to ease tensions. It clearly was a happy day on the sets for the crew and for sister Karisma too, who is good friends with Salman.
All's well that ends well. The duo have repaired their damaged friendship and we await the release of the film to see the garam onscreen chemistry they both apparently share.
No More Cold Vibes for Bebo and Sallu
Once upon a time, Kareena Kapoor and Salman Khan used to be “thick as thieves.” The duo were seen together in Kyon Ki, which unfortunately didn’t fare well at the box office but their friendship was in tact. However, once Bebo decided to start dating ex-beau Shahid Kapur, the friendship went dud. Major differences between Shahid and Salman, during the 2006 Rock Stars concert, caught Kareena in a web where she had to choose between co-star and good friend or lover. She, of course, chose the then love of her life.
But that is all history. Kapur and Kapoor no longer date, and since then the lady lass has moved on to Saif Ali Khan as her boy toy. Currently, Salman and Kareena are shooting for Main Aur Mrs Khanna and the vibes could cut ice according to onlookers. While their chemistry onscreen is one to be seen and deemed “sizzling” after any shot was over, the duo would head to their own vans. In fact, when it came to discussing a scene, director Prem Soni would have to individually sit down with the actors and go through the setting.
However, one day on the sets, an intricate scene was to be shot and Bebo decided to take it upon herself to settle the battle. She walked up to Salman and asked to discuss the scene with him. At first Sallu Miyan was shocked but after a while realized that this cold war was clearly over. The duo were then seen laughing and giggling which made director Soni sigh with relief. Additionally, current boyfriend Saif Ali Khan’s company helped to ease tensions. It clearly was a happy day on the sets for the crew and for sister Karisma too, who is good friends with Salman.
All's well that ends well. The duo have repaired their damaged friendship and we await the release of the film to see the garam onscreen chemistry they both apparently share.
But that is all history. Kapur and Kapoor no longer date, and since then the lady lass has moved on to Saif Ali Khan as her boy toy. Currently, Salman and Kareena are shooting for Main Aur Mrs Khanna and the vibes could cut ice according to onlookers. While their chemistry onscreen is one to be seen and deemed “sizzling” after any shot was over, the duo would head to their own vans. In fact, when it came to discussing a scene, director Prem Soni would have to individually sit down with the actors and go through the setting.
However, one day on the sets, an intricate scene was to be shot and Bebo decided to take it upon herself to settle the battle. She walked up to Salman and asked to discuss the scene with him. At first Sallu Miyan was shocked but after a while realized that this cold war was clearly over. The duo were then seen laughing and giggling which made director Soni sigh with relief. Additionally, current boyfriend Saif Ali Khan’s company helped to ease tensions. It clearly was a happy day on the sets for the crew and for sister Karisma too, who is good friends with Salman.
All's well that ends well. The duo have repaired their damaged friendship and we await the release of the film to see the garam onscreen chemistry they both apparently share.
Amrita Rao reveals her love
Victory may well be revolving around the character of Harman Baweja but Amrita Rao still has great memories of shooting for the film, in particular the parts that were shot on outdoor locations in Rajasthan. After spending quite some time in Jaisalmer, she not just fell in love with the desert dunes but also the traditions, culture and music belonging to this part of the country.
''First schedule of the film took place in Rajasthan and it was particularly exciting for me because for the first time ever I was visiting Jaisalmer. I was fascinated with the sheer visual of so much of sand around. Then suddenly I saw people dressed in bright colours which was really contrasting with the background of the place. All the orange and pink colours turned the place into such a delightful watch'', says Amrita Rao fondly.
She was also particularly impressed by the traditional music that was being played around the shooting locations. ''We were shooting at this small temple and it was interesting to see the locals playing a small instrument that seemed to be a 'taanpoora'. Then there was this old man who was wearing a turban and singing some songs that seem to have inspired quite a few Bollywood tracks that I have heard over the years'', says Amrita who herself is quite fond of classical music.
''First schedule of the film took place in Rajasthan and it was particularly exciting for me because for the first time ever I was visiting Jaisalmer. I was fascinated with the sheer visual of so much of sand around. Then suddenly I saw people dressed in bright colours which was really contrasting with the background of the place. All the orange and pink colours turned the place into such a delightful watch'', says Amrita Rao fondly.
She was also particularly impressed by the traditional music that was being played around the shooting locations. ''We were shooting at this small temple and it was interesting to see the locals playing a small instrument that seemed to be a 'taanpoora'. Then there was this old man who was wearing a turban and singing some songs that seem to have inspired quite a few Bollywood tracks that I have heard over the years'', says Amrita who herself is quite fond of classical music.
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