Aishwarya Rai turns 34 in style

Bollywood Buzz tribute to the actress as she celebrates her birthday on November 1

As Aishwarya Rai turns 34, we do a quick trace her evolution from a plastic-faced model to an actress of international class. Rai first came into the limelight with her Pepsi ad opposite Aamir Khan. Prahlad Kakkar who had directed that commercial says when she walked into his office, her eyes got his attention. "Intelligent but shy," is how Kakkar describes Ash. He says over the years Ash hasn't changed a bit and her approach towards her work is as professional as can get.

A disastrous debut in Aur Pyaar Ho Gaya followed by a series of mediocre films best describe her initial years in Bollywood. Raj Kanwar, who directed her in one of her earlier films Dhai Akshar Prem Ke feels she has grown tremendously as an actress. "From then to working in Pink Panther is no mean achievement," Kanwar says. "She is an extremely inspiring person and spreads a lot of positivity on the sets". Kanwar however feels Bollywood hasn't given Ash her due and there is still a lot of untapped potential in her.

The big turning points in her career where the two Sanjay Bhansali films Devdas and Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam. In fact it was after these two projects that people started taking her seriously as an actress. She did a number of prominent films such as Mohabbatein, Taal and Josh after which she established her position as a star bigger than her box office records.

But when it comes to mass adulation, perhaps nothing will ever match up to Kajra Re. Essentially an item song, her moves created nationwide hysteria as she made her then would be father-in-law and husband dance to her tunes. Kajra Re choreographer Vaibhavi Merchant says "Aishwarya added a certain grace to the number which no other could have matched". She says the song could have easily turned raunchy but Ash's dignity took it to another level.

Vaibhavi who has also choreographed Crazy Kiya Re feels Ash is better with Western dances. "Since she has very athletic, clear movements work better than fluid jhatkas". According to Merchant, Ash has done well for herself in the industry and is at an interesting phase in her career where she will do only select work. Unlike most Vaibhavi feels Bollywood has given Ash her due as she a diverse body of work to her credit.

Dhoom 2 was a big departure for Ash. Having not really 'exposed' as much as some of her contemporaries, her new hot 'n' sexy avatar in the film sent fans over the moon. For designer Anaita Adjania Shroff the biggest challenge was to make Ash get rid of her poise. She says Ash was made to wear a lot of street fashion and her overall body language had to be brash yet seductive unlike most of her other characters. Anaita feels Aishwarya is extremely adaptable to new styles and can carry anything from "ganjis to sarees" well. Shroff says, "as a stylist there is still a lot more that can done with Ash and is perhaps the best person to experiment with new trends".

After a critically acclaimed performance in Guru Aishwarya's next big project is Ashutosh Gowariker's Jodhaa Akbar. Despite being another costume drama, as always there is a lot of buzz around her look in the film. In the coming years Rai will be seen in many high profile international projects along with the Bollywood blockbusters that keep coming her way. At 34 she can't exactly play a college sweetheart but knowing Ash this might just be the beginning. Perhaps we ain't seen nothing yet.

Buzz18

A VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY AISHWARYA!!!!!!

Saif upsets Dhoni and team

Our glamorous T20 cricketers are not used to cooling their heels for the filmi junta. It wasn’t surprising then, that at an ad-film shoot recently, they were furious when Saif Ali Khan walked in four hours late.

Yuvraj Singh, M S Dhoni, Harbhajan Singh and Robin Uthappa reported on time (5.30 pm) to shoot for an ad film, for a premium liquor brand, on Monday. Saif, too, was an important part of the ad film. However, for a long time, there was no sign of him anywhere. The cricketers hung around for a while. After some time, they got restless and demanded to know where the actor was.

The cricketers were aghast at Saif’s late arrival and his disregard for others’ time. After what seemed like an endless wait, the four cricketers started shooting their own portions.
At 9 pm, Saif finally walked in. The angry cricketers refused to take notice of the star. They continued to talk amongst themselves, almost as if Saif didn’t exist. He is not used to going unnoticed, so he looked miffed.

The shoot continued till 12.30 am. The cricketers were heard complaining that they were kept waiting for over three hours, that too, for no fault of theirs. They clearly said that it was Saif who was late. Saif, by then, had had enough. He retaliated, our source adds.

Saif, according to our source, said, Main thode hi na jaan boojhkar late aaya hoon (I did not come late deliberately). I am coming straight from another shoot which got delayed. Apparently, this explanation did not pacify the cricketers and after pack-up, the T20 gang left, still without uttering a word to Saif.

TNN

Tabu for the Oscars ?

The Namesake has breathed a new life in Tabu’s diminishing career even as she now prepares to visit Hollywood.

There has been a lot of speculation, debate, and anger over the nominations of Oscar news.

But producer Ronnie Screwvala and Mira Nair have quietly been doing their rounds of screenings of their film, The Namesake for the Oscar jury members and have been aggressively promoting the film.

If the buzz and talk in international papers are to be believed then it looks like Tabu stands a very good chance to get nominated as best actor (female) in the main stream awards for her outstanding performance in the film.

The Namesake had also done very good business in the USA and had managed to impress both, the mainstream and NRI audience.

Let’s wait and watch how far and wide this film actually manages to travel. In the meantime, we are wondering what’s the news on Eklavya? Vidhu?

TNN

Priyanka Chopra encourages men get fashionable

Actress Priyanka Chopra is making her mark in a man's world. The lady was recently signed on to promote a men's wear brand – J. Hampstead that was earlier promoted by sportsmen like Leander Paes, MS Dhoni... This time however, J. Hampstead chose to be different, and rope in a Bollywood actress to do the needful.

"What would I be doing for a men's wear brand? That's the first question that came to my mind, too," says Priyanka Chopra. "But then, I realized it makes sense as men don't quite know what women want, and while a woman wants to look good for her man, men, too, I'm sure would want to look good for their women!"

The entire ad commercial was shot in Paris. "It was very cold but beautiful and romantic. Paris is the fashion capital of the world, and it was apt to shoot the ad there," says PC.

Avnish, Brand Manager, J. Hampstead said, "We usually opt for winners to promote our brand, and Priyanka doesn't fall short of being just that. We've had sportspeople endorse our brand earlier, this time we tried something different – we opted for the film industry and a lady who'll settle for nothing but the best."

Shailendra Singh, MD, Percept, said, "A lot of decisions as far as men's clothes are concerned are taken by the women, which is why we thought this 'big idea' would work." And was Priyanka the first choice always? "Honestly, there was no one else who came to mind."

Ask PC about her style statement and she says, "Be Comfortable!" So what's the worst thing about men? "They want their girl to look good and at the same time won't give her enough time to get dressed!" she complains. The damsel is also happy being a woman, and not a man. "We can wear trousers and shirts, but can men wear skirts? Only in Scotland!" she remarks wittily.

Urvashi Ashar, Indiatimes Movies

Kareena and Saif fight in Public

Yesterday we heard Saif saying, "To have a crush on someone is a quick thing, but love takes time." Apparantly the juniour Nawab was talking about Kareena. And now we hear that just a few weeks into the relationship and the couple have already had their first spat.

The duo had a heated argument at a party and Kareena was even seeing crying. It all happened at a nightclub in Mumbai where they were attending a party thrown by filmmaker and wannabe actor Farhan Akhtar.

Saif who has acted in Dil Chatha Hai which was directed by Farhan also turned up for the party with his new found love Kareena in tow. However a source claims that Saif and Kareena were seen arguing at the party in full view of all the guests.

However when Saif told Kareena to ‘Shut up’, she burst into tears. Kareena was extremely upset as she felt that Saif shouldn’t have treated her like that especially since she had dumped Shahid for him.

Eventually the two made up and were seen in good cheer again and later left the party together.

The turnaround was understandable. Saif has been indulging the Kareena of late having gifted her solitaire diamonds "worth a few lakhs very recently," according to a leading tabloid.

He has also been looking for a specific-sized diamond ring.

"He told us that it's for a very special lady and he gave us the ring size also," says a salesman at a jewelry store.

Kareena and Saif will soon be seen together in Yash Raj film Tashan.

SantaBanta

"I haven't signed any film yet." - Ranbir Kapoor

While on SAAWARIYA, one keeps hearing about the number of films Ranbir Kapoor has signed even before his first film has hit the screens. Reportedly, he already has four films under his belt:- Yash Raj’s new film, to be directed by Siddharth Raj Anand; Rajkumar Hirani’s next project; BLACK and SAAWARIYA cinematographer K. Ravi Chandran’s directorial debut; R.K. Films’ new film, to be directed by dad Rishi Kapoor.

“Let me clarify, I haven’t signed any film yet. There’s nothing official on any film, as of now,” Ranbir informs me. Okay, what’s the status on each of those films? “Siddharth is a friend. We’ve grown up together. Yes, we’re talking about a film, but it’s not on paper yet. As for Raju Hirani’s film, I’d love to work with him. But he hasn’t approached me for any film. I really don’t know how this news originated,” he clarifies.

What about K. Ravi Chandran’s film? And also R.K.’s next production? “It’s true that Ravi Chandran has approached me for a film, but we haven’t decided anything yet. The talks are in the preliminary stages right now. As for our home-production, yes, it’s a desire to revive the company and we’re working in that direction, but there’s no game plan yet,” he smiles. That should set the rumours to rest!

Taran Adarsh, IndiaFM

Aamir and wife Kiran would split ?

It was reported that not all was well between Aamir Khan and wife Kiran Rao. Apparently, Kiran who wanted to direct a film with Aamir as actor was not getting the green signal from hubby dearest, and was being asked to re-work on the script. This led to creative differences and ego clashes between the two. Though, Aamir took time off to rubbish these rumours by saying, "Kiran will direct soon. I was bowled over by the script", many chose not to believe him and speculations of a split continue.

Let us tell you, that only recently, we spotted Aamir Khan get out of a big car and enter the lobby of a suburban five-star hotel. He was surrounded by bodyguards and all. And about ten-minutes later, wife Kiran Rao emerged from an even bigger car and joined Hubby Khan. Dressed simply in a red straight cut skirt with a white top, Kiran hung around patiently as Khan was constantly on his mobile phone. The sweetest part, however, was when Aamir occasionally wrapped his fingers round Kiran's, while he was still in conversation, irrespective of public glares and stares. The two walked hand-in-hand.

Now, whoever thought that the couple was having personal problems, can go take a walk themselves, for this duo looks happy together and very much in love.

Indiatimes Movies

SRK - Kajol 'My Name Is Khan' from July 2008

Though it is being postulated that Shah Rukh Khan is all set to take a sabbatical, before he shoots for Farhan Akhter's DON sequel in December 2008, that is far from the truth.

In an informal chat with a leading news channel, SRK was very specific when he said that the shooting of his next project with Karan Johar, MY NAME IS KHAN, will commence from July 2008. It is the same project where Kajol is likely to be paired opposite him.

While on Shah Rukh and his upcoming projects, the workaholic superstar is also tipped to work in a start to finish (one or two schedule film) for his close friend Aditya Chopra. And that may be prior to Karan's, MY NAME IS KHAN.

Abid, Bollywood Trade News Network

Ranbir Kapoor drops the towel

Gone are the days when women shedding clothes for camera used to make news. Today, even men are not far behind, especially in 2007 when first the trio of Akshay Kumar, Fardeen Khan and Riteish Deshmukh did it for HEYY BABYY, followed by Shahrukh Khan in OM SHANTI OM and of course Salman Khan in each of his films.

Now add Ranbir Kapoor to the list who has featured topless in the song 'Jab Se Tere Nain' with just a towel wrapped around his waist. While his boyish charm is at full display in the song as he gets all mooney-eyed for the love of his life, Sonam, there are some naughty antics at display too which should have the women folk swooning.

This is not all as a shot in the song requires him to carelessly fall on the ground with his towel dropping on one side of the body, hence exposing a bountiful of the leggy Kapoor.

Yes, it's all happening in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's SAAWARIYA!

Joginder Tuteja, Bollywood Trade News Network

How will Madhuri fare ?

With her graceful moves and her new toned, slim look, the dhak-dhak girl is all set to sizzle on the screen. And if Madhuri Dixit Nene does, her success will be an exception, rather than the rule.

For, marriage makes things difficult even for divas in the film industry. Stars like Karisma Kapur, Raveena Tandon and Sonali Bendre almost disappeared after marriage. Kajol too couldn’t do much at the box office initially, until Fanaa happened.

With Madhuri’s Aaja Nachle and Aishwarya Bachchan’s Jodhaa Akbar slated for release, everyone is waiting to see whether they will be capable of the same magic as when they were single. “I’ll definitely see Madhuri’s film.

She’s looking ravishing and is a great actress,” says actress Lakshmi Gopalaswamy. She believes the break has been good for Madhuri and she’s re-emerged as an actress of these times.

There’s a tendency with the audience, specifically men, to lose interest in an actress after she gets married. But I believe that such stupendous talent like Madhuri’s supercedes everything,” adds filmmaker Indrajit.

He feels the mindset is slowly changing and marriage is no longer an issue. “It doesn’t matter whether the heroine is married if the role and script are sound. As a director, I don’t take the marital status of actresses into account. Marriage is a non-issue and talent is the bottom line,” he adds.

Model Carun Carumbaiah agrees, saying the common perception that the male audience doesn’t accept married heroines is wrong. “It doesn’t make a difference to me whether the actress is married or not.

If she looks good and acts well, I’m happy. But age matters – I just can’t accept a Karisma or Kajol acting as college kids,” he says.

Leena Ghosh,TNN

Bollywood's busiest star Akshay

Saif Ali Khan and Akshay Kumar were busy slogging it out in Filmcity, where they were shooting for Tashan.

"Akshay Kumar is so busy. He's just back from Canada and doing a double shift to clear his backlogs. With his films doing brisk business, he has become Bollywood's busiest star," says a friend of his.

Wonder when he gets time to spend with family.

Looks like Araav is going to demand for ‘double shifts’ too once daddy dearest is done with his professional commitments.

Indiatimes Movies

Salman's 20 years in Bollywood

Salman Khan, who completes 20 years in Bollywood, on how co-stars’ kids who adore him are now celebrities themselves

Incredible as it may sound, Salman Khan is completing 20 years in Bollywood soon, and nobody is more surprised than the macho actor himself. “

It’s been quite a long journey, huh,” he asks with an amused smile, adding softly, “but it seems as if it was only yesterday.” He did his first film in 1988 called Biwi Ho To Aisi.

Age has been kind with Salman. He will be 42 soon. It is an age he carries well on his powerful shoulders. Not so very long ago, he was among People magazine’s most sexy men on earth, and this at a time when Hollywood and Bollywood had good-looking men standing on each others’ shoulders to get noticed and counted.

Salman shrugs at the memory. “I have moulded myself with the changing times. God has been kind. He has given me this face and body, I just maintain them because I am health-conscious, and because working out is like second nature to me,” says Salman.

But it is his remarkable maintenance of this God-given body that has fetched him the role of Tarzan in a forthcoming movie. He is pleased by that. “I am looking forward to playing Tarzan. I was a great Tarzan comic fan. He is so cool, man,” says Salman visibly excited.

If there is one indication that the years have rolled by since he gave his mahurat shot for Maine Pyaar Kiya in 1989, then it is this: four beauties on the threshold of their careers in the film industry who have expressed their craziness for him, are all the daughters of Bollywood stars.

They are Aahana (Dharmendra and Hema Malini’s daughter), Narmada (Govinda’s daughter), Trishala ( Sanjay Dutt’s daughter) and Sonam (Anil Kapoor’s daughter).

He melts when told that all of them are his big fans. “I have known Sonam since she was a kid. Now she is working with me. She is a very pretty and hard-working girl,” he says. As for buddy Sanjay Dutt’s daughter, Salman says, “Trishala, too, I know her since she was a baby.

She’s grown up to be a lovely girl. I think she sees a lot of Sanju in me. Maybe that’s why she loves me. Narmada and Aahana are little girls who have grown into beautiful women. My God! All the kids have grown up! Now I will have to give 10 per cent more to stand with them,” he laughs.

Not just the adulation of co-stars’ children, but another sign that Salman Khan has come of age is the fact that he is being cast in wax to join the likes of Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan and Aishwarya Bachchan at Madame Tussauds in London.

He remembers going to the famous wax museum only once, as a boy of 14, and coming away fascinated. “Not in my wildest dreams did I ever think I’d be there one day myself,” says Salman. Madame Tussaud’s representatives are coming down to measure out the tough Pathan for his waxwork. “People say my statue should look typically Salman Khan, casually dressed in jeans and tee, and I’m fine with whatever they decide on. The statue will live long after I have passed away.

Even if people want, they cannot forget Salman Khan,” he jokes, making light of the honour and his years in Bollywood and life.

Afsana Ahmed,TNN

SRK to re-make Deewar ?

There seems to be a love-hate relationship between actor Shah Rukh Khan and Amitabh Bachchan. Over the years Bachchan has ruled Bollywood and continues to be in the ace league. And Shah Rukh as we all know is not called the Badshah Khan for nothing. He rules too.

However, SRK has been found following in the footsteps of Big B very often of late – be it hosting Kaun Banega Crorepati , or then being a part of the modern age Don -drama directed by Farhan Akhtar. And now the latest stories doing the rounds is that SRK is most keen to remake AB's Deewar , so much so that SRK has already finalised the star-cast of the flick and has even approached Yash Chopra, the original director of Deewar , to direct it.

Apparently SRK, we hear, is very fond of Bachchan's character 'Vijay' in the classic 1975 action flick, and wants to 'don' a similar garb and play a similar role, because of which he has cast himself as Vijay. Rumours also have it that he wants hot Bollywood-pair Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor to play the roles that Shashi Kapoor and Neetu Singh played in the original while Priyanka Chopra, who played Zeenat Aman's role in Don, has been considered for Parveen Babi's role in Deewar . Boman Irani will be seen playing Iftekhar's role and Shefali Shah Nirupa Roy's.

Though most people claim not to have 'heard of this', filmmaker Yash Chopra's office, too maintained the same. "We haven't heard of any such thing, and aren't aware of it." If the alleged venture will be produced by SRK himself under his home-banner Red Chilies Entertainment, the big question that still remains is: Has Shah Rukh acquired rights of the film?

Deewar was produced under the banner of Trimurti Films of late Producer Gulshan Rai. Thus his son, filmmaker Rajiv Rai has the rights of the film. Rajiv Rai is based in the UK, and though he wasn't reachable, his office informed us, "Rajiv is not aware of any such buzz. He has the rights of Deewar and according to my knowledge hasn't sold it to anyone yet." "Rajiv is a filmmaker himself. Why will he sell the rights to anyone, when as a filmmaker he himself can remake it? I don't think he is even aware that Shah Rukh is planning to remake it, if at all he is," says a close friend and colleague of Rai.

Well, we'll just have to wait and watch if these rumours have enough strength in them? Will SRK actually build this Deewar , or will he simply break it down by rubbishing the rumours? That now, is another big question!

Reshma Kelkar, Indiatimes Movies

Kareena in a bikini ?

After the likes of Tanisha and Bipasha testing the waters of the ‘bikini land’ in the films Neal N Nikki and Dhoom 2 respectively, the radar has now turned towards Kareena Kapoor, who, it seems, is all set to wear a bikini for Yash Raj Film’s Tashan. The bikini shoot is being scheduled for February 2008, for which Kareena is reportedly preparing herself to be in shape! That probably explains why Kareena lost oodles of weight. If you were excited looking at new slim Kareena get into those tight fitting clothes on tv shows for Jab We Met promotion, wait for a next few months, coz the Kapoor girl seems to have much more to offer in Tashan.

It will definitely be a challenge for Lolo, who has always been bindaas in her volley of words, off-screen. What remains to be seen is if this bindaas attitude of hers rub her in reel-life too? And to what extent can she take head on, her colleagues (read ‘competitors’), which includes Mallika Sherawat, Malaika Arora Khan or Bipasha Basu even.

Over to you, Lolo…

IndiaFM

Ash’s plea to Ashutosh Gowarikar…

Aishwarya Rai is not seen anywhere these days. She skips attending events and even shies away from accompanying hubby Abhishek or father-in-law Amitabh to any occasions! Even recently when the press spoke to Big B on the occasion of his birthday, they expected to get at least a glimpse of his beautiful bahu but unfortunately even that wish of theirs wasn’t granted.

We know that Mrs Bachchan has been shooting for Pink Panther 2 in Boston and Paris with Steve Martin sporting trench coats and metallic Christian Louboutin peep-toe shoes. We are also aware of the fact that she has just wrapped up the shoot of Sarkar Raaj in Hyderabad. But what is keeping her from making public appearances when she’s not shooting is what intrigued us!

Is her alleged pregnancy the reason as many would like to believe? As they always say in tinsel town... there is no smoke without fire. So is the news true?

“Ash has just finished shooting for Ramu’s Sarkar Raaj in Hyderabad. She was extremely friendly and had fun shooting with Abhishek and Amitabh Bachchan. They enjoyed their stay in Hyderabad, behaved like a family but also interacted with other stars a lot. Not a single member of the Bachchan family acted high-handed. Abhishek was very protective of Ash and so was Amitabh”, says a source from the production team of Sarkar Raaj .

So is Ash really pregnant we probe? “The baby bump is definitely not the reason why Ash is not going public these days. At least the bump was not visible while she was shooting for Sarkar Raaj ” confirms our source.

The source further added saying, “Ash was heard requesting Ashutosh Gowariker to postpone the release of Jodhaa Akbar as she wanted Sarkar Raaj to release first, owing to it being her first film with her family (Abhishek and Amitabh) post her marriage. However Ashutosh wasn’t fine with the idea as the producers of the film weren’t okay with its further delay. Jodhaa was supposed to be released this Diwali! Moreover UTV wanted to stick to the release date of January 25 for Jodhaa Akbar since its the same day when Rang De Basanti released in 2006 and got a lot of acclaim to the banner”.

So will Sarkar Raaj release before Jodhaa ? We are waiting for the countdown to begin...

Renuka Vyavahare, Indiatimes Movies

Bachchans in Om Shanti Om

In Shah Rukh Khan's much-flaunted mega item number in his forthcoming "Om Shanti Om", old timers Dharmendra, Jeetendra and Mithun Chakraborty shake a leg along with a bevy of 28 other top stars - but Amitabh Bachchan and son Abhishek are conspicuously missing.

For those thinking gleefully that the song is another example of the Shah Rukh-Amitabh famed rivalry, it may be a bit of disappointment to know that both the Bachchans are very much in the film.

"The Bachchans are not in the title song, but will feature in the other sequences," a source close to the "Om Shanti Om" team told.

"How can I not have Mr. Bachchan and Abhishek? Both father and son have a special appearance in my film. They come in a scene just before the song," Farah Khan, who approached 34 stars but managed to get only 31, was quoted as saying.

Another well-known actor who couldn't comply with Farah's request was Aamir Khan. According to the director, Aamir was too busy shooting "Ghajini" and couldn't take time out.

Set in the 70s film industry "Om Shanti Om", is about a struggling actor Om, who falls in love with a successful actress, played by pretty newcomer Deepika Padukone. But before Om can woo her, he dies in an accident. He takes a new avatar in "another birth" as a big star and goes in search of his "previous life" love.

Bachchan's presence in "Om Shanti Om", a Shah Rukh Khan home production, puts an end to speculation about the animosity between the two stars.

Speaking at the HT Leadership Summit in the capital earlier this month, Shah Rukh had described his rivalry with Amitabh as a media exaggeration. The presence of Abhishek and Amitabh in his film substantiates his statement that there is no rivalry between him and the Bollywood icon.

The stories of their supposed rivalry intensified after Shah Rukh became the host of STAR TV's quiz show "Kaun Banega Crorepati", which was till then known as Amitabh's show, and ran it in his own style successfully.

Soon after that, he acted in a cheeky remake of Amitabh's 70s hit "Don", adding grist to rumour mills of the bad vibes between the two superstars.

Then followed Ram Gopal Verma dropping his "Time Machine" with Shah Rukh in order to complete his two projects with Amitabh - "Nishabd" and "Ram Gopal Verma Ke Aag".

Despite being in London at the time of the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) awards function in Yorkshire, Shah Rukh gave the event a miss. In fact, he missed the 2006 IIFA function too. The reason was said to be Bachchan being the brand ambassador of IIFA. v At the time Amitabh was unwell last year, Shah Rukh bagged many of his ad assignments - with ICICI Bank, Navratan Oil and the government Pulse Polio ads.

Although Amitabh has often denied any rivalry, he didn't invite Shah Rukh for his son Abhishek's wedding with Aishwarya Rai.

Perhaps "Om Shanti Om" marks a new friendly beginning for both stars.

Indiatarget

Kareena will work with Shahid again

Actors Kareena Kapoor and Shahid Kapur may have broken up, but they have managed to create a magic of sorts in their recently released film.

But the question is: Will Bebo share screen-space with Shahid again? “But of course," she says unabashedly. “It’s weird that people even think of asking me this question,” she says. “

Shahid and I have worked together in several films, and we’ve shared some wonderful onscreen chemistry in Jab We Met.

So if a good script comes our way, we’ll do it!” Now that’s as professional an actor can get. But Bebo, too, believes that ‘the show must go on’!

TNN

I am hooked to action : Priyanka

Priyanka Chopra is keeping very busy these days. "Brand endorsements, shows, shooting for three movies at a time… I have my hands full right now," says the sultry actress. Back from Namibia where she was shooting for Drona, Priyanka is looking a little tired. "Yes, it is quite draining. I just need some rest now," she adds.

But Priyanka doesn't let a hectic schedule come in the way of her social commitments. "I never shy away from supporting a cause. Running for the marathon was important for me and therefore I participated ," she says about her visit to Delhi.

Priyanka's strenuous schedule extends to the kinds of movies she is doing these days. "Drona is an entirely action-based film and it was a great experience. I did action for the first time in Don and I think I am hooked," Priyanka says. She also hurt herself during the filming of Drona. "I was doing a somersault and I pulled a muscle. I didn't know I was supposed to warm up. I'm not really a 'physical' person . That hurt a lot but we had to shoot and we got by. It's looking good so I'm happy."

Injuries or no injuries, Priyanka is hooked - as she says. "I will very much be a part of Don 2. If Farhan Akhtar kills my character, I will kill him. I am just kidding. Actually , the shooting for Don 2 will not start until next year. Farhan is working on another project, and even I and Shah Rukh Khan have our commitments. So all of us want to finish all our work and then start Don 2," she adds.

With so much happening in her professional life, when does she find time for love and Harman Baweja? "You want to know whether or not I am dating Harman . Now, I will keep you guys guessing. I am not saying anything at all about it right now," Priyanka says with a smile.

Mandvi Sharma, TNN

Ranbir Kapoor signed for Rajkumar Hirani’s next ?

After the tremendous response that Rajkumar Hirani’s Lage Raho Munnabhai got last year, he became one of the most celebrated actors in the industry. Though ‘Munnabhai’ didn’t go for Oscars, it was highly appreciated by audiences and everyone has been eagerly waiting to know for what Raju has to offer next.

There have been a number of revelations about Hirani’s next project, starting from the film being based on Chetan Bhagat’s successful novel, Five Point Someone. The project got bigger when Shah Rukh Khan’s name got associated with it. But then came a rumour that SRK is not a part of the film anymore and Shah Rukh confirmed of not doing the film in one of his latest interviews. Everyone remained clueless as to who will be the lead in Hirani’s next. However, according to a source, we have learnt that Ranbir Kapoor has been finalised to play the lead role in Rajkumar Hirani’s film. Though the official announcement is yet to be made, the source confirms that Ranbir is almost finalised as the lead actor for the film. Hirani is busy scripting his film and hence he was unavailable for comment.

Ranbir Kapoor will be marking his debut with Saawariya on November 9. Apart from Hirani’s film, he is also said to have signed Siddharth Anand’s next with Yash Raj Films.

IndiaFM

SRK the 'Maha Style Icon'

Shah Rukh, attired in black trousers, shirt and light brown coat, received the award at the Andheri Sports Complex.

'I am honoured to receive the award,' said Shah Rukh, waving to enthusiastic crowds.

The glittering evening hosted by MTV VJs
Sagarika, Cyrus Broacha and Cyrus Sahukar saw the Most Stylish Film Award going to 'Dhoom 2'.

The same movie gave Aishwarya and Hrithik Roshan the Most Stylish Female and Male awards respectively. The pair also bagged the viewers' choice Most Stylish Couple (on-screen) award.

Hrithik also walked away with the Most Stylish Body and New Look awards.

Choreographed by Vaibhavi Merchant, 'Crazy kiya re...' from 'Dhoom 2' was named Most Stylish Song of the year.

The return of actor turned parliamentarian, Govinda, to filmdom gave him the Most Stylish Comeback award.

While Atif Aslam got the Most Stylish Person in Music Award, Anita Adajania Shroff received the Most Stylish Bollywood Designer award.

The awardees were selected by a panel of judges that included Farah Khan, Neha Dhupia, Raghavendra Rathore, Ramona Narang, Sheetal Malhar, Rohit Bal, Prahlad Kakkar, Manoviraj Khosla, Ambika Pillai, Narendra Kumar Ahmed and Mickey Contractor.

The high- voltage event was marked by electric performances by Shreyas Talpade and Atif Aslam.

IANS/YahooNews

SRK served legal notice for smoking in public

Whatever Shah Rukh Khan does is always under the scanner of probing eyes. As King Khan is busy aggressively promoting his next film Om Shanti Om, the television cameras are following him with the zeal of an inquisitive teenager. As is well known SRK had said ‘no’ to No Smoking (we mean the film that is). But maybe K (we mean Khan and not John’s character’s name in the film) should have resisted from his penchant for smoking in public places. Why? Read on….

Well, of late SRK has been getting legal notices for his house. But he has been served a legal notice he wouldn’t have hoped for. Without much ado, let’s spill the beans. According to sources, The National Organisation for Tobacco Eradication has issued a legal notice to Khan for smoking during the recently held HT Leadership Summit in New Delhi and at the T20match in Mumbai.

Shah Rukh Khan has to reply to the notice within 15 days. If one recalls then the anti-tobacco body had earlier served a similar notice on Amitabh Bachchan after he was shown smoking on hoarding and posters of his film Family.

Faridoon Shahryar, IndiaFM

Salman beats Abhishek, goes to Madame Tussauds

Salman Khan won the world famous attraction’s public poll by a landslide. He will be soon monumentalized in Madame Tussauds. London is surely delighted about it. Salman beat nine other stars namely, Madhuri Dixit, Hrithik Roshan, Rani Mukherjee, Karan Johar, Kajol, Lata Mangeshkar, Abhishek Bachchan, Priyanka Chopra and John Abraham. Abhishek was the closest contender to Salman.

Salman has agreed to sit for Madame Tussauds sculptors in Mumbai. He will be the attraction’s fourth Bollywood figure, joining fellow Indian A-listers Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. The figure will be officially unveiled early 2008; a final date is yet to be confirmed.

According to Ben Lovett, PR Manager for Madame Tussauds, “Over 10,000 fans and visitors voted in our poll, and we’re over the moon that Salman Khan is the winner. The Asian market is critical to our attraction and our association with Bollywood, particularly the launch of Shah Rukh Khan earlier this year, has seen a dramatic increase in the number of Asians, from both the UK and abroad, visiting and enjoying Madame Tussauds. We hope to build upon this exciting relationship with the unveiling of Salman.”

Salman Khan commented: “I am touched and honored that my fans have chosen me to appear in Madame Tussauds and hope that the figure will bring much enjoyment to Bollywood followers the world over. I very much looking forward to visiting in the future and coming face to face with my likeness.”

Salman Khan next release is Bhansali’s Saawariya starring Rani Mukherjee and debutantes Ranbir Kapoor and Sonam Kapoor.

IndiaFM

Aishwarya refuses item number in Abhishek's film

The Abhi-Ash wedding was an affair to remember not just for the hype and hoopla that surrounded it but also for how equations that changed in Bollywood post their marriage. Firstly the apparent guest list led to a chain of reactions resulting in literally dividing the film industry into the Bachchan camp and the Non Bachchan camp. But another and one of the more important changes to be witnessed was with Aishwarya Rai turning Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, how the brand value of the Bachchans shot up many folds in the industry. Apparently if put together, the total value of Amitabh, Abhishek and Ash would be approximately worth a few hundred crores. The brand Bachchan was fast becoming too hot to handle.

When he was struggling to deliver a hit early on in his filmi career, Abhishek Bachchan who desperately needed a hit to prove his worth had to fall back on childhood buddy Goldie Behl. That was how Bas Itna Sa Khwab Hai came about but which turned out to be a dampener at the Box Office. This came as a further blow to Abhishek’s already weakened position at the turnstiles. Despite the debacle, it was Goldie Behl who kept up the friendship when he offered Abhi with Drona , a movie that was allegedly set to supersede Rakesh Roshan’s Krrish with its highly advanced special effects. And with Abhishek having re-established himself in Bollywood with consecutive hits in Dhoom and Guru , there was no reason to refuse this prestigious project.

Abhishek and Aishwarya after marriage were hot property as a couple onscreen as well as off screen. The Bachchans onscreen worth was already proved by the national hit number Kajrare in Bunty Aur Babli which featured the Bachchan trio together. But what many do not know is that Aishwarya wasn’t too keen on the item number and gave in to the demand after a lot of thinking on her part. On an afterthought the risk paid off well.

Goldie Behl perhaps had similar plans. The director through hubby Abhishek seemingly offered an item number to Aishwarya though Priyanka Chopra was the lead heroine for Drona . But with some minor consideration Aishwarya reportedly put down both the director and her husband.

Considering the fact that Aishwarya’s kitty is now filled with some prestigious projects and international films like Pink Panther 2 , it is not surprising that the former Miss World quietly refused the offer from Goldie Behl rendering more importance to her individual career than wanting to add zing to Abhishek’s film. Aishwarya has always been an intelligent person who has always weighed the pros and cons of anything and the actress did not want to make an exception once again after Kajrare .

The duo of Abhishek and Goldie Behl reportedly then went and approached the dusky damsel Bipasha Basu for the item number in Drona . Bipasha Basu’s only condition was that she would do an item number only if the song could outshine her performance in ‘ Beedi Jalaiyle ’. Besides the fact that Bips shares a good friendship with Abhishek!

But things turned awry again when Bipasha wasn’t too confident whether Priyanka would edge her out as the main highlight in the film. Subsequently she got to know that even Priyanka would shake a leg with her in the number and share screen space. That forced Bipasha to step back and refute her presence in Drona .

So while Aishwarya is focused on Hollywood films for the time being and with Abhishek’s professional and personal life going forward in the right direction, the search for Goldie Behl’s item girl continues...

Indiatimes Movies

Rani plans to wash her Daag

It looks the daag on Rani Mukherjee's chunri will be effectually washed off with her next release.

After giving such a grandly understated performance as the archetypal Fallen Woman in Pradeep Sarkar's Laga Chunari Mein Daag, Rani rises straight for heaven in the next Yashraj film where she plays an angel descending to earth with a rather sweet and heartwarming mission.

While Mr Bachchan plays God, ghost and a djinn in God Tussi Great Ho,Bhootnath and Alladin, Esha Deol has already played a ghost in Bhoot.

But no one has played an angel in Hindi movies before…unless we count Aftab Shivdasani who says his role as the angel in Anupam Sinha's Shukriya was his best ever.

Rani apparently took her angel's role very seriously, even going as far as to abstain from her favourite fish dishes to feel the pure and positive energy of an angel.

Says a reliable Yashraj source, "It's not easy playing an angel. It's a character absolutely without a reference point. Rani has gone into her inner resources to to create the character."

Contrary to reports she doesn't wear only one costume throughout the film. The still-untitled film will be completed in February and not in December as reported in the press.

Subash K Jha

Ranbir meets The President!

The venue was Rashtrapati Bhavan.

And the President Mrs Pratibha Patil's special guest from the film industry was Ranbir.

"Actually it was my Bua," Ranbir reveals gently. "We had gone to the President for the release of my bua (Ritu Nanda)'s book on my grandfather (Raj Kapoor).My dad who was shooting in Chandigarh also air-dashed to Delhi for the occasion."

Initially Rishi Kapoor wasn't allowed into the Prez's chamber. But when it was known that Ranbir's father was also present he was quickly escorted in to join Ritu Nanda and Ranbir.

24 hours after the experience, Ranbir still can't get overit. "With its hand-painted ceilings the Rashtrapati Bhavan is the most awesome architecture I've seen. And the Prez was so down-to-earth and friendly. She released by Bua's book and then spoke to us about cinema.

Would you believe it, she's seen the films of my great -grandfather (Prithviraj Kapoor), grandfather (Raj) and his brothers (Shammi and Shashi) and my dad. She spoke about my Dad's debut in Bobby and my debut in Saawariya."

The Prez expressed a desire to see Saawariya.

"Can you believe it! The lady's graciousness was infectious. And though there were so many ministers waiting for her attention she was completely focused on us while we were there," Ranbir can't stop marveling.

"Mrs Patil was specially impressed by the line Hum ne rahenge tum na rahoge rahengi sirf nishyaniyan from my grandfather's film Sri 420 which starts off my Bua's book."

After meeting the Prez, Ranbir has one wish added to his list. "I want to receive my first National award from her."

Subash K Jha

JAB WE MET is not Shahid-Kareena's last!

Some sources have been quick to write their obituary about the Shahid-Kareena pair (due to obvious reasons!), despite their professional approach in completing their latest, JAB WE MET. Rumours are rife that JAB WE MET will be their last film together. But that is far from the truth.

The factual position is that even if Shahid and Kareena decide never to work together again, MILENGE MILENGE is likely to be their last film and not JAB WE MET.

While on MILENGE MILENGE, the film produced by Boney Kapoor and directed by Satish Kaushik, is carrying good reports. Anil Agarwal, the Delhi-U.P and East Punjab distributor of MILENGE MILENGE, saw the film recently and was floored!

Abid, Bollywood Trade News Network

SRK's swanky office

SRK has a brand new office behind his bungalow Mannat. And guys, you have to see it to believe it. Those who have seen the office swear that they haven't seen an office like this in Mumbai. "It's state of the art and is better than any of the 5 star hotels in Mumbai. He is still doing it up and it will take some time before it becomes fully functional," says a friend of the star. And even though the office is not fully functional, SRK has shifted from his old office Khar (which was in the eye of controversy) and has started operating from his new office behind Mannat. Well, with King Khan already making a whooping 50 crore plus profit on his forthcoming home production 'Om Shanti Om' we are sure his office will get more swanky.

Gautam Buragohain, Indiatimes

Jab We Met : Remake of Hollywood flick ?

Imtiaz Ali's Jab We Met is creating a lot of buzz mainly because the main actors of the film - Shahid and Kareena Kapoor have broken up. However, that aside, it's being speculated that the film is inspired by a Hollywood hit film A Walk In The Clouds . Earlier the same film proved to be an inspiration for filmmakers like David Dhawan and Raj Kanwar.

In the original motion picture, Paul and a young girl meet on a bus. The girl is heading homewards to help with the grape harvest and to face his dominative dad. The girl is pregnant and she thinks if her dad knows of her pregnancy he will kill her. Paul poses to be her husband. Love blooms and that's that.

David Dhawan's Kunwara had a similar storyline with a different twist to it, while Raj Kanwar's Dhai Akshar Prem Ke had lots of similarities, too. Jab We Met , however, is a little different from the original. In the film Shahid and Kareena meet on a train, and no Kareena, in the film, is not pregnant.

When we asked filmmaker Imtiaz Ali, if his film was indeed a remake, he denied so, saying, " Jab We Met is not inspired or copied from any Hollywood film. Though it has boy meet girl on a journey theme it is totally different from other films that are made on similar themes. Mahesh Bhatt's Dil Hai Ke Manta Nahi had a similar theme but it doesn't mean that my film is copy of his film. There are so many movies on the same theme. My film is original and not a copy or remake of any Hollywood film."

He further continues "The idea of JWM came to me from my train journeys. I developed this idea into a romantic film. I haven't seen A Walk In The Clouds , so cant comment on it."

Reshma Kelkar, Indiatimes

Priyanka Chopra to flag off Tina Ambani's rally

We are sure every Bollywood heroines aspires for a life like Tina Ambani. A successful film career followed by a graceful exit then to marry her real life prince and live a life of luxury ever after.

"But there's more to her life, it doesn't end here," says her co- star of her first film Rocky, Gulshan Grover and adds "And those who thought after marriage, Tina's life would be restricted to buying diamonds, sailing in a Yatch, flying in private jet. Tina has proved all of them wrong. She has dedicated her life and wealth to the cause of the old people, and it's heartening to see the wife of India's leading industrialist, actively involved in this noble cause. Every year she does a rally for the old people in Delhi. And it's my privilege to be associated with it. Last year an old lady who works as a domesticate help got the first prize. And guess what the prize was? 3 days stay in a 5 star hotel in Goa along with her husband. And when she was confused about what to do with the prizes, Tina replaced them immediately with cash. This year she is doing the rally in Delhi and I will be flagging it off along with Priyanka Chopra on 27 Nov," says Gulshan.

While Priyanka Chopra who is shooting faraway in the jungles of Namibia will be flying down to Delhi especially to flag off the rally along with Gulshan "It's a great honour and more than anything, it's for a noble cause. Tina Ambani is doing an excellent job," she says. Here's one lady who deserves a huge round of applause from us as well.

Gautam Buragohain, Indiatimes

John got Mike in!

While filming for Goal , a perfectionist John Abraham felt the need to get into shape and boost his stamina.

He was also equally concerned about his ‘weighty’ co-stars including Arshad Warsi. That’s when he suggested that Hollywood’s strength coach and personal trainer Mike Ryan, who has trained Russel Crowe during the making of Gladiator , be roped in.

John says, “Mike was instrumental in getting us into shape as football players and training us extensively in building our core strength and stamina to play the game. He was with us in London for the entire schedule.”

When the cast and crew landed in England to film subsequent portions, Mike Ryan was flown down. He would train all the actors every morning before they started shooting for the day.

The buzz doing the rounds is that John was down and out after having fielded Sallu’s unceremonious comments about his not-so-fab abs last year. He had hit the gym with a vengeance to prove his ‘senior’ wrong.

Sanidapan Dalal, TNN

Shah Rukh Khan's new look on Filmfare cover

Shah Rukh Khan seems to be all over the place. After launching many a health clubs the Om Shanti Om star will be soon seen flaunting his six pack abs on the cover page of the new October issue of Filmfare.

Along with unveiling the new cover of Filmfare the actor also launched Filmfare’s new initiative, Filmfare mobile, India’s first mobile magazine with filmy news and gossip.

Indiatimes Movies

Bipasha is John's physiotherapist

Dusky beauty Bipasha Basu is back in the news and this time it’s not her alleged link up with Saif which is hogging the limelight, but the compliments she is getting for her look in Goal. We couldn’t help, but kept guessing what a beautiful dusky woman like her is doing in an all men sports film like football? She laughs and says, Well, I am never too concerned about the length or duration of my role. I knew what my length was going to be right from the beginning of the film. I always knew that the film belonged to the boys and I have no complains about it.

Is she an avid football fan like all Bengalis are? No, I was introduced to the game (football) almost five years ago, when I started seeing John Abraham. That man is simply crazy about the game. He eats, drinks and sleeps with it. I had no option, but to get hooked to it, she says. Point taken, we have no complains as long as the two love birds stick to each other.

TNN

Celina becomes a NRI

Celina Jaitley is finally going places and far, from her hometown as well. She has started shooting for her second film, to be shot in New York, and is travelling non- stop to her new work place. I’m completely jet-lagged.

I came to Mumbai in between, met my family and now I’m back in New York for my shoot. But I have no complains. I love every bit of it, she says. How about applying for a NRI status?

TNN

Why did Aamir Khan refuse Om Shanti Om

Farah Khan's Om Shanti Om is one of the most awaited films of the year, and why not? When one puts in the effort and hard work, it reflects. And the cast and crew of OSO have done just that. Director Farah Khan has left no stone unturned.

We ask her about the degree of difficulty in getting Bollywood's top actors to be a part of one song in the film. "It was Shah Rukh's and my dream to have all the big actors together in our film. I invited, rather approached around 34 stars but managed to get only 31, which I think, was more than what I expected," she reveals.

But we didn't notice Amitabh Bachchan in the promos. Thanks to the SRK-Amitabh war? Farah surprises us with, "Amitabh is in Om Shanti Om . In fact even Abhishek is a part of our film. How can I not have them? People are speculating about this because Amit ji is not part of the song. But it's not true. Both father and son have a special appearance in my film. They come in a scene just before the song. I wanted Abhishek to be part of the song, but when I shot the song, he was busy with his marriage preparations."

According to sources, Shah Rukh and Farah Khan were inspired by a song from Amitabh's hit movie Naseeb - John, Johnny, Janardan . Shah Rukh, we hear, desperately wanted Amitabh and his family to be part of the song. It is also believed that Shah Rukh's wife Gauri Khan and friends like Karan Johar and Rohan Sippy tried hard to convince the Bachchans, but finally it was Farah who managed to convince them.

Now that one rumour had been clarified, we move on to the next. Why did Aamir Khan refuse to be part of OSO ? Ms. Director confirms, "Yes, Aamir is not in the song. I had approached him but he was too busy shooting his film Ghajini and wasn't able to be a part of my film. I wish I could bring Aamir, Shah Rukh and Salman dancing together in my film. And before you go on to the next speculation, let me tell you that Akshay Kumar is a part of the movie as well."

Reshma Kelkar, Indiatimes Movies

Salman Khan to play Tarzan

We'll soon be seeing Salman Khan - in a children's film. Called Tarzan , and Sallu will of course essay the title role.

"It's going to be directed by Anees Bazmi," he tells us. "It'll be fun. I've grow up on Tarzan films, and it's always lovely to make something the kids will enjoy." So will it have an authentic jungle feel to it? "Yes, it'll be shot in the jungle," confirms Salman.

Well, let's hope that there is no wild life around, lest Salman finds himself on the 'wild side' of the law once again. He simply laughs and lets that one pass.

About his look in the movie, the actor tells us, "We are working on the look, nothing has been decided so far. Let's see what Anees is going to make me do. I'm expecting him to ask me to grow my hair and all that."

So when does this one go on floors. "Only next year, I suspect," says the actor, who is currently having a great time shooting for Subhash Ghai's Yuvraj.

Urvashi Ashar, Indiatimes Movies

Miss Sri Lanka to make debut in Bollywood with Aladdin

Ayesha Takia’s loss is former Miss Sri Lanka Jacqueline Fernandez’s gain. After things did not work out between Ayesha and director Sujoy Ghosh for the director’s new film Aladdin, the two parted ways. Sujoy was looking out for a leading lady for quite some time and finally he zeroed in on Miss Sri Lanka 2006 Jacqueline Fernandez.

This will be Jacqueline Fernandez’s first stint in acting and Aladdin seems to be a really good debut for the lass.

Back in Sri Lanka, she was working as an anchorwoman in a business program called Lanka Business Report and also wrote a weekly column for a top newspaper.

If you recall, a leading film magazine covered reports of Jacqueline Fernandez dating actor Viveik Oberoi. However, that seemed to have died down.

Aladdin stars Amitabh Bachchan playing the genie while Riteish Deshmukh essays the title role. Sanjay Dutt is also a part of this film. Vishal-Shekhar are doing the music.

IndiaTimes Movies

'Taare Zameen Par' audio on November 3

Last year, the over-selective Aamir Khan broke a rule of sorts and gladdened the hearts of his countless die-hard fans. Yes, we are referring to the back-to-back release of his two films, UTV's Rakeysh Mehra directed, RANG DE BASANTI and Yash Raj's, Kunal Kohli directed, FANAA. Aamir even made a promise to his fans that they could expect more regular releases from him in future.

However, Aamir's only project of 2007, his directorial debut venture, TAARE ZAMEEN PAR, will only be releasing during the Christmas week, 21st December to be exact. The promos of the film made their first appearance on the net and are now being aired at some select music channels.

The title song, 'Dekho inhein ye os ki boondein', having some soulful lyrics by Aamir's favourite, Prasoon Joshi and set to some beautiful tunes by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, is already being appreciated and talked about. As a result the album of the film is much awaited. And as per music industry sources, the audio of PVR Pictures and Aamir Khan Productions' TAARE ZAMEEN PAR, is scheduled to hit the stores on the 3rd of November.

Abid, Bollywood Trade News Network

Om Shanti Om ties up with Lycra MTV style awards

Lycra MTV style awards announced a tie up with the most eagerly awaited movie of the year- Om Shanti Om. King Khan, director Farah Khan, gorgeous Deepika Padukone, versatile Shreyas Talpade and the debonair Arjun Rampal will show their distinctive style statements on the October 25 at LYCRA, MTV Style Awards 2007. Designer Manish Malhotra will be showcasing his retro theme, inspired by his Om Shanti Om.

Farah Khan excited about the whole event says, “Lycra MTV Style Awards is a fantastic platform to give our audience the first taste of style in Om Shanti Om. For me style is one of the most critical elements in the film and I am proud to display some of the style at this year’s Lycra MTV Style awards.”

The lucky invites at Lycra, MTV Style Awards will get to watch Shah Rukh Khan, Arjun Rampal and Deepika Padukone in their stylish splendor in action LIVE on a stage- a bit of dekko before you watch them on celluloid. To which Ashish Patil, General Manager, MTV India and Vice President- Creative and Content says, “Style is something integral to our films and films are the one thing that hugely impact style and fashion of the year, Om Shanti Om, at the Lycra, MTV Style Awards! So get set to step back in time with an absolutely sensational “retro” showcase by Manish Malhotra with Arjun Rampal, Deepika Padukone and some insanity with Shreyas Talpade, Farah Khan and Shah Rukh Khan as never before!”

Over the last few years, Lycra MTV style awards, has showcased films like Musafir, Jaan-e-mann and Kya Kool Hai Hum, that not only rocked the box office but also set a distinct style statement - be it cinematography, music, looks or even action. So, let’s wait for the magic to unfold this October at Lycra MTV Style Awards with the entire crew of Om Shanti Om.

IndiaFM

Shahid Kapoor travels by Mumbai's Local Train

Rail Gaadi, Rail Gaadi, chuk chuk chuk chuk….’ It is now Shahid’s turn to sing this song. Traveling in ‘aamchi local gaadi’ on Monday night, Shahid chatted up with fellow passengers whilst endorsing his upcoming flick, Jab We Met.

In the film, the characters, ‘Aditya’ (Shahid) and ‘Geet’ (Kareena) set out on a journey, after they miss their train. No, wonder then that the promotions of the film are done using the local train. The producers of Jab We Met had painted two full local trains in Mumbai from the Western and Central lines with Jab We Met imagery.

Reliving every moment on the sets of the film, Shahid sure had a ball to be closer to his fans. We are sure Shahid had a journey of a lifetime. The reel journey however, releases on October 26 worldwide.

IndiaFM

Saif and Kareena : All for films

It’s really funny how a star’s love life becomes such a big deal. And since it is a ‘big-deal’ we are but forced to write about it, because this is what our dear darlings love to read about. So, the latest round-up on this handsome couple has a new twist. People are now speculating about a ‘tie-up’ of sorts between the Chopra clan and the producers of Jab We Met.

It’s just a promotional tactic for both films. A Kareena-Shahid break-up will help Jab We Met, and a Kareena-Saif off-screen pairing will help Chopra’s next film, Tashan. So the two have come together with this brilliant win-win situation, say some insiders of the film industry. What we say is, let ‘em be!

TNN

World's richest man at SRK's house!

He isn't called the King Khan for nothing, and it's this status which enables him to makes stand and interact with top political leaders and industrialist alike. And guess who paid him a visit at his bungalow Mannat recently? None other than , one of world's richest men, steel tycoon Lakshmi Mittal. "Over the weekend Mr Mittal was in Mumbai and he met with Shah Rukh Khan at a party and SRK invited him to his house so before flying out to London on his private plane, Lakshmi just dropped in to pay a courtesy visit," says a source. When Shah Rukh Khan was asked about it he confirms the news and says "I met Mr Mittal at a party and just invited him home, so on the way to the airport he just dropped in for a cup of tea.

All those who came in late, King Khan once drew flaks for taking money and dancing at the wedding of Mittal's son, Aditya, in Kolkata four years ago It was rumoured that SRK was paid a whopping £300,000 to dance at the reception and this continues to haunt SRK.

Gautam Buragohain, Indiatimes Movies

Salman's best performance ever!

Subhash Ghai is all set to reclaim his crown as the numero uno filmmaker. If everything goes right with Yuvraj that is! The industry is abuzz with positive reports about Ghai's 50-crore magnum opus starring Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif. Boman Irani is also a part of the project. The film recently wrapped up a 45-day shooting schedule in Austria with Salman and Katrina.

Sources say, Yuvraj could well be Ghai's most ambitious project ever, something that could bring him back into the reckoning, after the recent string of disasters which has cost him dearly. A large chunk of Yuvraj has been shot in various cities of Austria and on never-seen-before exotic locations, against the backdrop of the Alps. "Katrina has been styled to look stunning," says our source, "Almost straight out of an Italian painting."

Ghai is understandably is excited with the way the film is shaping up. While speaking to Buzz18, he confirmed, "This is my most expensive film so far. And I am happy to tell you, this could be Salman's best performance ever!"

Salman plays a singer of sorts in the film and Katrina is his romantic interest. "Salman was the picture of cooperation and diligence," adds Ghai. Interestingly, Yuvraj was announced close on the heels of a public spat between Salman and Ghai at the JW Marriott hotel in Mumbai. This is the first time Ghai and Salman are working together.

Buzz18

Sanjay Dutt arrested in Mumbai

The wait is over. Sanjay Dutt has been given a copy of the TADA court judgement today, which means he might soon be back in jail. The actor was arrested soon after.

The court distributed some 17 copies of the 4,000-page judgement on Saturday, October 20 and Dutt was not a part of it. The judges sure knew how to keep the suspense, Bollywood style! All in all, 34 copies remained to be given away today, and now Dutt has been handed over his copy.

Dutt now has two options for future course of action. One, appeal to the Supreme Court against the TADA court judgement, or two, appeal to the apex court for interim bail. The lawyers have decided to appeal to the Supreme Court.

Dutt's lawyers had been trying to get their hands on the judgement copy so that they could decide on their next moves to save the actor from going to jail. Though sources say, an 'unofficial' copy of the judgement had already been acquired by them.

Now that the 'official' copy is with Sanjay, he is likely to serve six years in jail. The actor will most likely be taken to Yerawada jail in Pune today, the same jail where he spent some time before being out on bail for two months.

Buzz18

No interviews or quotes : Mallika

She is playing this chupa-chupi game

We wonder what’s up with Mallika Sherawat?

Bollywood’s once most outspoken actor has suddenly gone all quite and refuses to make herself available for any interviews or quotes. We wonder why she is playing this chupa-chupi game with us.

Or has she run out of her quotable quotes?

TNN

Priyanka the Bodyguard of Abhishek Bachchan

riyanka Chopra who did a few action sequences in Don, will try her hand at it again in Drona, we hear.

The actress will apparently be playing bodyguard to Abhishek Bachchan. Speaking about action, Sushmita Sen too is all set to play Jhansi Ki Rani, which obviously means a lot of action.

Looks like our actresses are all set to give the actors a run for their money!

TNN

Vidya Balan's new look

Bollywood actress Vidya Balan, known for her charmingly traditional looks in her films, has undergone a complete makeover and says that it is a result of her self-realisation to look good.

Nobody has ever asked me to lose weight. Earlier, I was focusing only on getting the character right, on-screen. But, lately, I realised that actors owe a responsibility to look good in every character they play,” explains Vidya.

The svelte actress, also sporting a new haircut these days, said her new look is all for her upcoming film Luck Charm. “Recently, I was in Toronto for two months. I used to plug in my iPod and go for long walks that helped me shape up. Isn’t it a lovely way to de-stress yourself,” she asks.

Oozing dollops of confidence, Vidya says that she is an eternal optimist whose fan following always brings a smile on her face. “There are times when you feel low. However, I am an optimist and my fans give me a high. They bring a smile on my face and then I forget all the bad times,” she says.

“I am one of those lucky ones who have the opportunity to do what they love the most — to act. And when your fans appreciate your work, what else can one ask for,” she adds.

Commenting on the struggle that she went through to find a foothold in the industry, the actress says: “Struggle is a part of everyone’s life, but that’s ok! After all, the person I am today is because of that only. Also, the prayers of my parents, family members and well wishers have helped me become a strong woman possessing lots of will power,” she says.

The actress, who started her film career with Pradeep Sarkar’s Parineeta, is bowled over by the response she is getting for her new film. “In the last couple of days, I have received loads of messages praising my acting. I think after Parineeta and Lage Raho Munna Bhai, it is now that I have got this kind of a response. It is unbelievable and overwhelming.”

The actress, whose forthcoming projects include Delhi 6 and Halla Bol, wants to continue enacting different kinds of roles. “As an actor, I want to continually play varied roles. The only condition is that I should be able to justify whatever I do.” And, if you have seen her recent film, you know what she is talking about.

IANS

it hurts to see and read this all the time : Shahid

The endearing Shahid Kapoor has decided to end his silence and talk about his break-up with the ravishing Kareena Kapoor.

Disturbed by the onslaught of pictures in the media of her and the new man in her life, actor Saif Ali Khan, Shahid admitted to BT: "It will be dishonest to say that this doesn’t affect me. I am human, it hurts to see and read this all the time. I guess I have no choice but to live and deal with it."

Their movie together is ready for release this week and he says that he is hoping the audience accepts them as an onscreen couple. Just as he talks his film, he goes on to talk about his relationship with Kareena that failed.

"I hold nothing against anybody, if I do, it will pull me down, and I’m not like that. I’ll cherish the good memories of that relationship and move on. That’s what I’m doing — looking at the positive side and trying to be happy," he said sadly.

And is one of the positive sides the fact that the lover boy is single all over again? Shahid smiled coyly, "I am feeling a certain sense of independence all over again. Today, I have time to myself and can do things which maybe I always wanted to do but never could. From where I am at this point in life, things are looking up. The best part is the overwhelming affection, concern and support that people are showing. I feel special."

What went wrong between Kareena and him? Was he a possessive lover? “Love in itself is enough. It brings security. One doesn’t need to be possessive. I have never been like that,” he said, adding, “But it is below Bebo’s dignity and mine to talk about all this now. I wish her all the happiness in the world. I have great respect for her. She’s a wonderful girl.” And what about himself? “Oh, I’m very optimistic and still believe in love. You don’t plan to fall in love but, yes, I will fall in love again,” he said crinkling his eyes and beaming.

Afsana Ahmed, TNN

No Smoking will find its right audience : John Abraham

Yes, John Abraham is a high maintenance metro-sexual man as people would like to believe and is bold enough to admit it! We are not just talking about his alleged habit of working out in the gym regularly or going to beauty salon and hair stylist to look perfect. All we are talking about is his take on smoking, rather NOT-SMOKING!

In conversation with Avanti Dixit , John clears the rumours surrounding his chain-smoker status...

John, a million dollar question... as rumours have it, are you a chain smoker in real life?
No I am a non smoker. You won’t believe this, but during the shoot of this film I had to smoke and I actually took an x-ray of my lungs to ensure that I have not damaged my body! I was shocked to see my lungs filled with smoke.

No Smoking, the name sounds preachy.
The film does have a social message, but first it’s entertaining. The film is crazy and bizarre.

What kind of character do you play in the film?
If you see the promos the character I play looks very glamorous. I play a narcissist. In the film I love myself and don’t care about anyone. But how from a chain smoker this guy turns out to be a complete loser is what the film is about.

And what made you go for a film which deals with anti-smoking?
No Smoking is probably the best script that I have ever read. When Anurag narrated the story to me I loved the idea and I was sure I was going to do the film.

So will the story interest only smokers and multiplex audiences?
The audience today has become very intelligent and is always looking for something different and No Smoking will find its right audience.

You are looking better than before... what’s with the new found glow?
Well post Dhoom I had started neglecting the way I looked, but now I have started being more careful and tried to work towards looking fresher.

Your style and looks are a huge rage. Any message for your followers...
Cigarette smoking is injurious to health. (laughs)

Shah Rukh down with viral fever

Guess who has succumbed to the viral fever attack in Bollywood? None other than the King Khan who is ailing for the past few days and is advice bed rest by his doctors. But in spite of that Shah Rukh has been working round the clock. Over the weekend he was in Pune attending some private affairs and once back at home he met up with Mumbai's Municipal Commissioner Jairaj Phatak who visited Shah Rukh Khan's bungalow 'Mannat' at Bandra to enquire about the actor's alleged encroachment of public space.

An NGO had filed a PIL before the Bombay High Court alleging that Khan had violated the development control (DC) rules by encroaching on the public road. "I'm just lying down in bed and meeting whoever comes to meet me, hopefully I will get well by tomorrow and resume my work," he told us. But that didn't stop King Khan from gracing the event of a magazine late night with his wife and business tycoon Lakshmi Mittal

Gautam Buragohain, INDIATIMES MOVIES

Shilpa gets a pleasant surprise

Shilpa Shetty, who is currently touring Germany for the Broadway musical Miss Bollywood, was in for a pleasant surprise when she attended popular German host, Stefan Raab’s chat show, TV Total. Shilpa’s spokesperson says, After the interview was over Raab said, ‘I have a surprise for you!’ Shilpa was wondering what surprise was in store for her when Raab looked into the camera and said, ‘Our second guest for the show is none other than the world famous American pop singers Backstreet Boys!’ Shilpa’s sudden encounter with the Backstreet Boys Howie, Nick, Bryan and Alex left her dazed.

The Backstreet Boys concluded the chat show by singing ‘I want it that way’ that coincidentally happens to be Shilpa’s favourite number.

Shilpa later met up with the boys in the green room. Sources says, The boys were surprised when Shilpa told them that she had acted in 51 films in the last 10 years. They also told her that she was one of the most gorgeous actresses they had seen.

Times Of India