Angels for Shah Rukh's Knights

Style, personality, attitude, rhythm and a fit body - that's all Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan is looking for in cheerleaders for his Indian Premier League (IPL) team.

The star will pick six cheerleaders for his Kolkata Knight Riders for the upcoming second season through his TV show "Knights & Angels". The show is being produced by Shah Rukh's Red Chillies Entertainment and will air on NDTV Imagine, a source from the channel told IANS.

“Knights & Angels” will be the first ever-televised hunt for cheerleaders and have other popular stars on board as well.

The details of the show are yet to be announced by Shah Rukh.

Govinda meets KKR, but not SRK

Govinda was in Kolkata recently for the shoot of his movie Garam Chai and was residing in the same hotel as the Shah Rukh Khan and his Kolkata Knight Riders.

During his stay, he met all the players of SRK’s team but didn’t make the effort to visit Shah Rukh Khan who was staying in the same hotel, Sonar Bangla.

According to a unit member, “On arriving in Kolkata, Govinda directly went on to his sets of the film.

After his pack up later that evening, the actor-turned-MP went to his hotel and heard about the Kolkata team staying at the same hotel. On an impulse, Govinda decided to go meet the players and wish them good luck.”

Although SRK was at the same hotel with Gauri, Govinda didn’t bother to meet him and chose to hang out with the players instead. Shah Rukh was residing in the Presidential suite, which was on the same floor as Govinda’s Queen suite.

When contacted, Govinda admits, “I was in Kolkata for a day for my shoot. When I returned to the hotel, I was informed about Shah Rukh and his team being present at the same hotel. I met a few players but missed SRK, as he had already left.

The next day, on my way back, Knight Riders and I were in the same flight. It was then that I had an official encounter with them and wished them luck.”

Arjun supports SRK!

You see him in the stands for every match of the Kolkata Knight Riders.

Arjun Rampal, dressed in the team’s black and gold jersey, cheering for his good friend Shah Rukh’s team, with his other buddies Karan Johar, Farah Khan and Sajid Khan. For Arjun, the reasons are simple: one, SRK is a good friend and second, “I see where Shah Rukh has taken the IPL — his contribution has been great and we must support him.”

Arjun has been a cricketer since school. What then is his view that T20 is ‘not quite cricket?’ “It’s a sport,” he says,
“The change in the format is what’s making it exciting. And a lot more people are watching cricket because of this. Women, normally not cricket viewers, are now fascinated by it.” Arjun’s wife, former supermodel Mehr Jesia is one. “My wife couldn’t stand me watching cricket earlier. Today, she not only watches but calculates run rates and knows the rules,” he says.

Arjun has made many new cricketer friends. “They’re all great guys,” he says, “It’s great to see our Indian cricketers learning and interacting with international cricketers. Ishant is a really nice guy, Dada (Sourav) is great for the team: he looks after the youngsters, so does coach John Buchanan. The team was different with Ricky Ponting, Brendan McCallum and Chris Gayle there, it’s pity they had to leave. And Shoaib’s a huge influence — he’s quite a character, enjoys his game and has great energy.”

Wasn’t he worried about rooting for the Knight Riders over the Mumbai Indians with the recent controversy? “It’s not that I dislike the Mumbai Indians. I like Delhi too — I’m from there, after all. But it’s the Indian Premier League and we’re Indians first. See the EPL — you can support Chelsea, Arsenal or Liverpool and still be British. Next year, if players are traded, Sachin might play for Kolkata or Sourav for Mumbai! Soon the club culture that exists abroad will also catch on here.”

As for why SRK is such a popular team owner, the reason’s simple, says Arjun: “He’s a team player, whether in films, shows or cricket. He’s patient and caring. He looks at this as a sport — some days you win, others you lose. His leadership is great. Take Shah Rukh out of the IPL and it’ll be a great loss for them.”

Shah Rukh: A true sportsman

The recent cricket season proved that Shah Rukh Khan is a true sportsman.

His team may have let him down, but there was never a frown on his forehead. The actor was there cheering his team all the way through, like true sportsman. In fact, after every defeat, SRK made it a point to party with the players just as he would when they won a match. The players may not have got the trophy for the owner but Shah Rukh made sure they went home with a neat packet and loads of gifts.

In fact his message box is full of smses from the players not only of his team but even other teams praising him as a human being and a sportsman. Now who can blame him for his rising popularity? In fact, his colleagues should learn a lesson or two from King Khan on sportsmanship!

I like Shah Rukh everywhere, says Juhi Chawla

The vibrant and cheerful Juhi Chawla loves being in Shah Rukh Khan’s company.

On being asked whether she prefers Shah Rukh as a friend, as a co-actor or as a business partner, Juhi flashed her million-dollar smile and replied, “I like Shah Rukh everywhere! He is a sharp person and great fun to be with. He is great in whatever he does and, yes, he is truly a joy.”
Besides acting, it is her involvement in the Indian Premier League (IPL) matches that sets her pulse racing. Juhi, who is co-owner of the Kolkata Knight Riders team along with Shah Rukh, said, “IPL is really exciting, but it is also stressful for me.”

Dressed in a simple kurti and pants with no accessories, Juhi spoke about her recently released film. The initial response to the film has not been good, but Juhi asserted that it was being appreciated the world over. “I am so happy that the film is being appreciated. I had a great time working with the child (Aman Siddiqui) and Amitji (Amitabh Bachchan), and it is a special film for me,” she said. Since the film was centred on Amitabh and Aman, didn’t she feel overshadowed? “I have been asked about this many times but, frankly, I could neither have played the ghost nor the child! So, there is nothing like being overshadowed in the film. I feel that as long as we play our given parts well, we are noticed and our work is also appreciated,” Juhi said.

Talking about her future projects, Juhi said she was playing the role of a fortune-teller in Aziz Mirza’s Kismet Konnection. “It’s a small role but a very different one,” she said.

Don’t mind my business, mind yours: SRK

Shah Rukh Khan’s message to the officials who have a problem with his presence in the dug-out area

It’s not easy being a celebrity. Shah Rukh Khan is living proof of that. The actor rarely gets upset, but when his authority is challenged, King Khan roars loudly.

On Sunday, the actor was told to keep a safe distance from his team. The Anti-Corruption Unit of the ICC told the KKR owner that he should not be in the players’ dressing room and their dug-out was out of bounds too.

Yesterday, IPL Commissioner Lalit Modi briefed the media on allowing owners of IPL teams access to dug-out area for unlimited time, there was a rumour that Shah Rukh and other owners would have only fifteen minutes of time in the specified area.

When asked about the controversy Shah Rukh says, “I have no issue with them. Nor do I need to ask for 15 minutes etc to meet with the team I own. Only IPL or IMG or whoever is in charge of stuff on grounds should inform their officials from ICC or whatever other agency they are from, about the rules before they question someone who has all the accreditations, passes or permissions with him/her and incidentally, happens to be the owner of the team too.”

The actor feels he is being targetted because he is a celebrity, “It’s quite prevalent now to take on a known personality and behave high-handedly so that one gains some form of personal importance. It’s happened a few times before, during the matches too.

I decided to be civilised about it, in the larger interest of my team’s morale and state of mind especially when they were down. Someone sent me a message yesterday if you want to lead the orchestra you have to learn to turn your back to the crowds.

I guess I will turn my back on this one too and keep trying to make the music that makes sense to me and that gives me very little time to answer to these loud regulatory noises around me don’t walk here, don’t enter the dressing room, don’t dance there, don’t meet players! Hey!

How about don’t mind my business, try and mind yours more efficiently for a change that will be more helpful. Now if I want to meet my team I will do so at my house, or in their hotel, not on the grounds for 15 minutes!”

Shah Rukh is such an excellent marketing guy, says Juhi Chawla

One of the darlings of Indian cinema, Juhi Chawla, couldn't be happier to talk about her new film Bhoothnath, and as she sits in her London hotel suite draped in her red and golden anarkali dress, it's clear that Bhoothnath is a film that means a lot to her. Call her the chirpy Chawla as many of the journos call her, she seemed totally relaxed and frank while talking about her costar-friend SRK, the IPL, her kids, then begins to lavish praise on her new director and describes her 'Ek Rishta' with Amitabh Bachchan in this exclusive interview.

Former Miss India, then ad campaigns, then your beautiful smile, then your first big hit QSQT followed by plenty more, your best buddy SRK, then your 'saat phere' with Jai Mehta, your kids, then some more ad campaigns followed by your Saade Saat Phere with Irrfan Khan and the least you expect is a 'bhooth'. How do you sum up your journey so far?
Talking about the journey, you've been following me since 6.30 am from Heathrow airport. So you must have guessed that my journey was hectic. Anyway, the way you started it, I thought where will you land up? But yes, you are right. It has been one hell of a journey. So much has happened so fast and look, I am a mother of two and still doing films. It's good to be back in London after a long long time for the promotion of Bhoothnath. My journey still continues after this film though. But here I am ready to face your questions.

Juhi Chawla has never been a part of a B.R. Films. Then how did you find your first outing with them?
The outing has been great. Bhoothnath has been a wonderful experience for more reasons than just one. I am working with Mr. Bachchan after a long gap, the same with Shah Rukh. Actually, my last film with both of them happened to be Paheli and that too was a ghost film. But working with Ravi Chopra was one of my most memorable moments simply because of the experience and talent he has brought along with his production house. To be a part of B.R. Films in your cinematic journey is a must for everyone.

You play Banku's mother in the film but have you ever encountered a Banku in any of your kids?
(Laughs) Don't even remind me of it. My kids can be naughty, frustrating, mad and even go outside the house. I then have to spank them but all in good faith. From the most joyous and blissful moments to the most frustrating moments, I've had them all with my kids. It's an experience I cannot forget all my life.

Do you think that in Press conferences held overseas and events which promote the individual film, kids are somehow forgotten and it's only the big stars who steal the show?
Let me tell you that our little Banku has been a part of many shows and promotional tours back in India. It was him (Aman Siddiqui) who launched the soundtrack of Bhoothnath on the musical reality show Amul Star Voice of India. It is quite sad that he is not present here with us in London but that's not what we intended. I guess he must be a bit busy with Bhoothnath back home (laughs).

You've worked with a bhooth, your very good friend SRK, in Paheli. Bhooth here is Amitabh Bachchan. How was your Ek Rishta with him?
You've framed this question very nicely. Yes, as I've said before that this is the second time I'm working with both SRK and Amitji. In Paheli, I did not share screen space with Shah Rukh because his portions were more with Rani Mukherjee in the film. In Bhoothnath, it's almost a similar story. It's the kid, Banku, who shares screen space with the bhooth. I am a mother who doesn't believe in ghosts until the ghost reveals itself. Working with Amitji is a dream come true for any actor and sharing a scene with him is even more special. Coincidently, I am working with him again in Aladdin where he plays a genie. Now that's spooky (laughs).

You thanked everybody and mentioned every co-actors name in Bhoothnath but forgot one - Shah Rukh Khan. Do you think he is not a part of this film only because he is doing a special appearance?
Oh Yes. I did forget to name him but that does not mean he is not a part of the film. Even though he has only 20 minutes in Bhoothnath, he has played his part well. In fact, I told Vivek Sharma, the director, that how lucky he was to have Amitji and Shah Rukh both in his debut film.

You mentioned in the Press conference that you have worked once with B.R Chopra before. Can you clarify that a bit?
(Laughs) Yeah. This is going back to my Miss India title. After winning the title, I got an offer from B.R Chopra saab to work in their tele series Mahabharat. In fact, they screen tested me for the part of Draupadi. I was selected too but at the same time, I got another offer to work in Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak which happened to be my debut film. So I had to choose between the two. What happened next, everyone knows.

Why don't we see you along with SRK in all the IPL matches? You both are owners of the Kolkata Knight Riders and you should be attending.
I am so busy with my two kids that I just cannot leave them. But it's Jai, my husband, and SRK who have the control over what's going on in the IPL. I hope that Kolkata Knight Riders win the tournament. Do you know, I am not even following the matches? Such is my halat. Shah Rukh is such an excellent marketing guy that right from the special music video for our team to the clothes they wear, he wants everything in the right place. No compromises there for him. But I have attended couple of matches with him. Let me get back to India and I'll have a think about it again.

This is the first time you have sung a song in the film. How was the experience?
Now that's been the highlight of today's event. Pehle nachvaenge aur ab gavaenge (laughs). I have trained myself as a classical vocalist and when I was given a chance to sing, I did. The song is called 'Jaane Do' which is a slow number. You will soon find out after seeing the film whether I've got my career in singing or acting (laughs).

Any message for all the special kids out there?
The message is that, Go and watch Bhoothnath. It's a story of a haunted house where this family goes to stay and where they meet this ghost. Don't worry guys; I am not trying to scare you. It's a fun film with lots of emotions and laughter and an underlined message that is be good to the ones who are bad too. You never know when a foe might turn into a friend. But do go and watch it for Vivek Sharma who has put his heart and soul in this film. A must watch for his creative direction.

Devnash Patel

King on various roles!

His releases are scheduled only for the second half of this year.

Yet, thanks to IPL and a TV game show, there’s no missing their fave star for Shah Rukh Khan fans. And they’re loving his juggling of roles. SRK himself had once said, “I do a lot of things on the spur of the moment. I like to try and take chances. That makes me what I am.”

He’s got what it takes to impress in every sphere, say star-watchers. “A good host must have charisma, spontaneity, intelligence, humour, the ability to connect with the audience and presence of mind. SRK has all this and more. He was the most natural choice. There are few people who are so multi-faceted,” says Anupama Mandloi, senior creative director of the channel that airs the SRK game show.

Actress Manasi Joshi Roy wants SRK to do everything that comes his way. “He’s a rockstar. I want him to take up all the projects that come his way so that I get to see him more often,” she says. About SRK’s new avatars, the actress says, “I was impressed to see him as a businessman and team manager of the Kolkata Knight Riders, and was bowled over when I saw him on the new game show.”
Says actress Sophie Chaudhary, “There can be no bigger motivating force than SRK as an IPL team manager. He rocks as a TV host. He’s very spontaneous, witty and I love the way he makes participants feel comfortable.”

Anchor-cum-actor Rohit Roy rates Shah Rukh’s TV appearance very high. “He can make a success of anything he dabbles in. As an IPL manager, he’s stylised his team like no one else has done. SRK presents himself very well as an anchor on TV. He makes the show smooth and his rapport with the participants is unmatched,” says Rohit. “You have to hand it to him for handling it so well in the midst of the IPL tension.”
Others prefer to follow SRK as a cricket entrepreneur. “He’s already made an impact on the small screen.

Now I prefer seeing him as an IPL team manager,” says actor Aashish Chaudhary. “SRK has more guts than talent and he has proved that an actor can do much more than just act. As an IPL team manager, he’s created a new business cult. Marketing is something that cricket has in abundance and films don’t, but with IPL, SRK has bridged that gap. He has so much foresight and business acumen that he’s now holding his own against the Mallyas and the Ambanis,” says Ashish.

Shilpa Bansal

Why SRK and workaholic are synonyms!

If the dictionary and the lexicons cannot give the exact definition and description of a workaholic, a better idea would be to take a look at Shah Rukh Khan's recent schedule.

In less than a week, King Khan cheers his IPL team, the Kolkata Knight Riders' on two different venues in India and before one can say 'wow' he is off to shoot for his home production, BILLU BARBAR and the latest quiz show, KYA AAP PAANCHVI PAAS SE TEZ HAIN.

If that is not strenuous enough, he also turns up to perform at an award function in London, and before one can bat an eyelid he is physically present to unveil his second wax statue (after Madame Tussauds) at the Graven Museum in France. In between he also has time for product endorsements and keeping the press happy by answering all their questions regarding his team and his latest quiz show. We have also heard that he has cancelled his plans for the annual vacation with his family due to his extra busy schedule.

Well, if Bollywood's global superstar does not signify workaholic; we wonder what/who else does!

Shah Rukh Khan's IPL - Nokia Commercial

Seems like the Bollywood stars are doing everything they can to promote their IPL Cricket teams... Take for example Shah Rukh Khan and this Nokia commercial which he did alongside his Knight Riders Cricket players! Check it out below!

SRK: an actor, a host, a producer, a husband and a father

If you think earning lots of moolah is the only thing on Shah Rukh Khan’s mind, think again.

The actor who already has helped set up a pediatric ward at a city hospital now wants to set up a ward for cancer patients too. "I get embarrassed to talk about such things. The hospital people were kind enough to name the pediatric ward after my mother. I hope to set up a centre for cancer patients later this year," he reveals. But that’s not all, SRK even has plans to set up a hospital.

"That’s my final dream. Though I don’t know when that will be possible. I keep telling my wife that I have to do this and she keeps telling me that I can do it only when I stop doing the other things," he says.
But of course, there’s loads of work to be done too. Besides his role, that of a host in Kya Aap Paanchvi Pass Se Tez Hai?, the actor is back at the studios doing what he does best acting!

His two films this year are Billoo Barber and Aditya Chopra’s Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi. But there’s no denying the fact that we are seeing a lot of SRK on the small screen than the big one. "It’s not that I am too much on TV, it’s just that there’s lot of TV happening these days. Cinema is no more the only form of entertainment. We are talking about watching films on mobile phones. Five years from now, I may be doing a movie that may be released on cellphones. Does that mean I become smaller or has the reach increased," he questions. And the talk of his big comeback on TV, doesn’t impress SRK much. "This thing of ‘you started with TV and came back to TV...’ I have always been on TV."

But aren’t there too many endorsements, shows, etc that he’s doing on TV? "No, just day before yesterday I was thinking I am doing very less," he smiles the famous dimpled smile. Be it films, TV or cricket, SRK has conquered every pitch. It looks like the name SRK is now synonymous with success. "For success you need to know that you can go wrong and yet go ahead and do it. People who do wrong things, like stealing or murder, have overcome the thought that this is wrong. They have found their justification. Positively, if we apply the same, it will work. As soon as you accept that this can go wrong, the fear of failure decreases. If tomorrow I face failure, I hope I can say I enjoyed failure too," he philosophises.

Astrologers and industry people often talk about the brilliant planetary positions that SRK has been blessed with, so is luck as important for his success? "Giving all the credit to luck takes away from the hard work involved. People will say I got a good show and it’s our luck that the show’s doing well. But there’s a lot of hard work involved here. I am not successful by luck, but because I am in the right place. I am not special. Eight years ago I thought I was, but after that, I think there is a set of audience that likes my work," he states matter-of-factly.

And despite spending so many years in the industry, Shah Rukh thrives on one thing, "Giving a perfect shot. Be it in films or TV. For example, when I get the timing of a joke right. I can live off it for 10-20 days." But hosting is one thing that tires even the super-energetic King Khan. "TV work is very difficult. Especially quiz shows. It’s almost live. Also, there are many factors like unknown contestants, dealing with kids, the 200 lights and after all that, there’s a deadline to adhere to. I can work for 20 hours. I can dance, fight, do press conferences and not get tired, but with this I get tired. Also a show like Kya Aap... needs something from the host. There is a certain responsibility and I never shirk away from responsibilities. But yes, it is tiring and I get a headache at the end of the day. But the problem is when I return home, my kids want me to ask them the same questions again. So I have to sit down and do that," he says.

An actor, a host, a producer, a husband and a father. SRK has many roles, so who’s the real SRK? He says, "Honestly, even I don’t know myself. You keep acting the whole day. You do lot of things that are larger than life. Lines start getting blurred after a point. The closest I came to playing myself was in KBC and now this show. On the show I emote the way I would in real life."

SRK's cheerleaders get a makeover

Shah Rukh Khan’s cheerleaders will now sport Manish Malhotra’s ensembles; Ganesh Hegde’s outfits have been junked

Designer Manish Malhotra and Gauri Khan (Shah Rukh’s wife) have decided to re-style the cheerleaders of Shah Rukh Khan’s Kolkata Knight Riders.

Says B-Town’s favourite designer, “I was very unhappy with the gold outfits worn by the cheerleaders earlier during the Bangalore and Kolkata matches.

They have been designed by Ganesh Hegde. Gauri and I were discussing the outfits and we thought that the cheerleaders should look sportier.

Now I am re-designing new outfits for them before the next match.” Kolkatta Knight Riders are playing their next match on April 26, in Chennai, where they play Chennai Superstars.

Manish elaborates, “The outfits worn by the cheerleaders should look cool and racy. Earlier they were wearing gold skirts and tops but I want to design black T-Shirts and shorts in complete black with a gold emblem; that will look trendier.

The gold skirts worn earlier were taken from the music video which Ganesh had conceptualised and directed.”

Manish along with Anahita Shroff Adjania (and Reebok and Velmont) have designed the outfits worn by the Kolkata Knight Riders cricketers. Manish is all praise for Shah Rukh for his visualization and creative inputs.

“Shah Rukh has been involved in the minutest of detailing. He has an eye for details and is very passionate about whatever he does. The maximum credit of the cricketers’ outfits goes to Shah Rukh. The black and gold was his idea as it’s the philosophy of the Knight Riders.”

Manish adds that working costume details with Shah Rukh was exacting, “There were meetings galore; we even showed a storyboard to him. He had sent an email of the story and the emblem.

The fabrics and shoes were in collaboration with Velmont and Reebok. Anahita and I have done the formals — the black and charcoal grey blazers and pants. I had never worked with Belmont and I learnt a lot in the three months that we worked together. I

want to be versatile. The outfits look smart, stylish and glamorous with gold helmets and pads. Cricket just got more glamorous.”

Upala KBR

KING KHAN goes economy class

For those who thought Shah Rukh Khan only travels kingsize — this should be news. Yesterday morning, Shah Rukh travelled to Kolkata in the economy class of Jet Airways and not on a chartered flight as he’s wont to do. His team, the Kolkata Knight Riders, took on the Deccan Chargers and SRK had to be in time for the match. As the first class seats were full, SRK did not mind travelling economy class.

Says a co-passenger, “Shah (as he’s fondly called by close friends, including Farah Khan) flew to Kolkata with his entourage. Since the group was large, SRK gave the ladies the first class seats including his own and asked the guys to do the same.

So while Bhavna Pandey (Chunky’s wife), designer Shabina Khan, Divya Kumar (T-Series Bhushan Kumar’s wife), Neelam Kothari, Seema Khan (Sohail’s wife) and a few other friends of SRK and Gauri sat in first class, SRK along with Karan Johar, Riteish Deshmukh, Farhan Akhtar, Ritesh Sidhwani and Priyadarshan made themselves comfortable in the economy class.”

The co-passenger observes that unlike other stars who behave arrogantly while flying, Shah Rukh was absolutely normal and fuss-free. “Shah Rukh even ate the food served in the economy class without any objections. The other passengers were thrilled and kept asking Shah for autographs and he kept obliging them.”

Gauri wasn’t part of the entourage. The source adds, “Gauri and the kids (Aryan and Suhana) along with Arjun Rampal, Mehr Jessia, Maheep Kapoor and Nandita Mahtani arrived in a private jet.”

Designer Manish Malhotra who was part of Shah Rukh’s group was spotted with two suitcases full of Kolkata Knight Riders’ black-and-gold outfits.

The source says, “Manish gave the outfits to everyone so they could wear them during the match and cheer SRK and his team. Yesterday, the atmosphere at the Eden Gardens stadium was electric as the two teams played to a packed crowd of over 80,000.

Shah Rukh’s entourage stayed at the ITC Hotel Sonar Bangla Sheraton and Towers, Salt Lake City.” Shah Rukh returned to Mumbai today morning by HDIL’s chartered plane.

Upala KBR

Team SRK's Amazing Victory!

Kolkata Knight Riders recorded a massive victory of 140 runs over Bangalore Royal Challengers in the inaugural match of the Indian Premier League here at the Chinnaswami Stadium on Friday.

Set an improbable target of 223 runs in 20 overs, Bangalore batsmen were seen in trouble right from the beginning and the whole team was bundled out for 82 in 15.1 overs.

This was one man show as Kolkata’s opener, New Zealand's Brendon McCullum hammered an unbeaten 158 off just 73 balls with 14 big sixes and nine fours.

None of their batsmen could enter into double figure except Praveen Kumar, who made 18 runs and remained not out.

However, it was interesting to note that Bangalore’s highest scorer was not any batsman but ‘Mr. Extras’, who contributed 19 runs with eight leg-byes and eleven wides.

From Kolkata Knight Riders, pacer Ajit Agarkar was the most successful bowler with three wickets for 25 runs while Ashok Dinda and captain Sourav Ganguly claimed two wickets each for nine and 21 runs, respectively.

Earlier, Rahul Dravid, captain of the Bangalore Royal Challengers won the toss and opted to field but his decision went wrong when the Kolkata batsmen severely punished his bowlers to amass a huge score of 222 runs for three wickets in the allotted 20 overs.


This is the highest individual score by any batsman in Twenty20 cricket.

No other batsman made any significant score as Ricky Ponting (20), Michael Hussey (12) and captain Sourav Ganguly(10) went back to pavilion one after another.

Mohammad Hafeez from Pakistan was unbeaten on five.

Zaheer Khan, A. Noffke and Jacques Kallis claimed one wicket each.

Geo Super gave the live coverage of the match as it obtained the exclusive telecast rights for showing all matches of the tournament, which will continue till June 8.

The commencement of IPL has taken the entire world of cricket by storm. IPL is literally a cricket league but this is in fact the beginning of a revolution which will change the history of cricket.

The opening ceremony was a blend of fireworks, stilt walkers, aerial gymnasts, performers in a bubble and some Bollywood glitter with the presence of Shah Rukh Khan, also the co-owner of the Kolkata team.

Shah Rukh Khan and Arjun Rampal bond at IPL

While Shah Rukh Khan being present for the opening IPL match at Bangalore was a foregone conclusion, what surprised many at the stadium and those who were watching it on telly was the presence of Arjun Rampal.

The two actors have bonded well ever since they were seen in DON and OM SHANTI OM. While Arjun was also there for a guest appearance in KABHI ALVIDA NAA KEHNA, King Khan too obliged by appearing for a blink-and-you-would-miss performance in Arjun's home production I SEE YOU.

Now Arjun has extended his friendship with Shah Rukh Khan by supporting his KNIGHT RIDERS team which went on to win the inaugural match. While the two were quite demonstrative about their support for the team and were seen dancing and cheering aloud from their VIP stands, it was a star studded affair with Juhi Chawla, Shilpa Shetty and Gauri Khan too having fun during the proceedings.

A glam studded event, the first match in IPL has turned out to be a smash hit affair and one can expect many more star appearances like these in the matches to follow over the course of next 6 weeks!

Joginder Tuteja

Before battle, Mallya takes on SRK

April 18: It is not just a war on the cricket field. Even before the game begins Royal Challengers boss Vijay Mallya has taken on his opponent for Friday's (April 18) match, the King of Bollywood Shahrukh Khan.

Its a battle between two legends in their own right. One is a celebrated liquor baron and the other the King of Bollywood. Vijay Mallya and Shahrukh Khan will be pitted against each other when their teams clash in the inaugural match of cricket's summer slam. The man at the helm of the Royal Challengers has set the war of words alight by taking a jibe at Shahrukh's Kolkata Knight Riders.

Watch: Vijay Mallya takes on SRK

Vijay Mallya said, "Shahrukh Khan is a superstar and I am not. But, his stardom will not count on the cricket field. It will all depend on which team plays a better game and I stand by the fact that we are a good team."

Shahrukh may have not responded to his rival's war cry, however, the commander of his force Sourav Ganguly declared that he is ready for any challenge thrown at him by Dr Vijay Mallya's team. Sourav said, "I have given Rahul a pair of boxing gloves. I don't know about Shahrukh and Vijay."

On a day that holds up most importance to the owners as much as it does to the men who will sweat out at Bangalore's Chinnaswamy stadium. The Indian Premier League will witness a war between figures who will try their level best to cut into each other's popularity. The latest jibe of Dr Mallya may just set the proceedings on a roll for a war between team owners, something that has never been witnessed before in the history of the game.

Times Now

King Khan launches Nokia 2 Hot 2 Kool

Shah Rukh Khan is known to put his heart and soul completely into whatever he undertakes. The big event which is keeping him really busy these days is the inaugural edition of the IPL- Indian Premiere League which kicks off in Bangalore tomorrow (April 18th)

SRK who is the proud owner of the Kolkata Knight Riders team is going all out to promote his team. In fact, his promotional music video 'Korbo Lorbo Jeetbo Re' is already making the air-waves and now Shah Rukh has gone ahead and even launched a music album called Nokia 2 Hot 2 Cool.

The actor along with music moghul Bhushan Kumar of T-series officially released the music of the album in association with Nokia at a function in Mumbai yesterday.

Speaking on the occasion, King Khan said, “I thought of Nokia because Nokia could connect my 22 players who were diverse but came together in one thought- they hated the thought of losing. T Series was the obvious choice because whenever I think of music, the only company that comes to my mind is T Series and I have a long association with Bhushan Kumar since Chalte Chalte days and recently even with Om Shanti Om”

With the album having some pulsating numbers by Vishal-Shekhar, Bappi Lahiri and Pritam this one surely seems a must- buy for all die-hard SRK fans.

Shah Rukh Khan sings 'Run Just Run'

The Baadshah of Bollywood has done it again. And if you are wondering what we are talking about, it's SRK getting behind the mike once again to sing a song, this time for his Kolkata Knight Riders music album.

Shah Rukh first sang the popular number 'Apun Bola' in the film Josh in the year 2000. Thereafter, he has not really sung a full-fledged song but has done a few things which come close to singing like reciting a few lines of poetry in Shaurya, giving a motivational message in Chak De India, a few lines in 'Khaike Paan Banaraswala' in Don and even rapping a bit in his music video Kar Le Kar Le Tu Ek Sawaal.

So it is indeed a big bonus for die hard SRK fans to get to hear their favorite star sing a full song. The man who has got the superstar sing to his tunes is none other than Disco-King Bappi Lahiri. We got in touch with Bappi Da to get some more dope on the song and of course SRK's crooning skills. “Yes, it was a great pleasure recording a number with Shah Rukh. He is truly the Baadshah of Bollywood. We recorded this song called Run Just Run which talks about running ahead in life and not just on the cricket field. Whatever has happened earlier is a thing of the past…so just keep moving ahead and do not look back is what the song is trying to convey. This is the first time Shah Rukh has sung a hip-hop number. He has not just hummed a few lines here and there but has sung the whole sung along with backing vocals”, says the excited composer.

So was King Khan nervous or did he sail through it smoothly? “He was very comfortable and has sung very well. In my 36 years, I have had the privilege of getting some big stars like Amitabh Bachchan, Anil Kapoor etc. to sing for me and now getting Shah Rukh to sing is truly amazing. He gave the exact attitude and feel which was needed for this song and I am really very happy. I am sure when the song hits the market (very soon), it will create total hungama”, claims Bappi Da

Is it true that there are 2 versions of this song? “Yes, I have composed 3 songs for Shah Rukh's album. The main song is 'Run Just Run'- a solo version sung by Shah Rukh himself, there is another version of this hip-hop number sung by Kunal Ganjawala. The lyrics for these 2 songs have been written by Virag Mishra. There is also a third song which Usha Uthup has sung which has some Bengali words like 'Anando Hi Anando' meaning total happiness. It's also an encouraging song with a winning attitude, written by Deepak Sneh. Usha has also sung it very well and we both always make a winning combination”, smiles Bappi Da.

So, when is the album likely to release? “Very soon…I believe within 3-4 days it should be out in the market”, says the veteran composer

And finally, would we also be seeing another music video for this SRK hip-hop number Run Just Run, “Yes of course… Ganesh Hegde is choreographing the video”, signs off Bappi Da.

It's SRK vs Mallya

B-Town brigade will turn up to cheer King Khan and the Knight Riders at the opening ceremony match against Vijay Mallya's Royal Challengers

Though IPL’s opening ceremony on April 18 at Bangalore will have performances by Zayed Khan and Katrina Kaif on behalf of Vijay Mallya’s team, Shah Rukh Khan’s team won’t be left behind.

Although Khan isn’t planning any acts, he’s carting B-Town’s glamorous brigade to boost the morale of the Kolkata Knight Riders. SRK’s Kolkata Knight Riders is being led by Sourav Ganguly while Mallya’s Royal Challengers is being captained by Rahul Dravid.

Event manager of BCCI, Venkat Vardhan of DNA Networks, admits, “Katrina and Zayed will be performing for both the Bangalore and Kolkata matches for the Royal Challengers while Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy will be performing at Bangalore. I don’t know about Kolkata Knight Riders’ plans. Being the home team, they will have an event in Kolkata.”

Says an actress on condition of anonymity, “SRK has invited lots of stars to attend the first few matches of his teams including the opening ceremony and the match at Kolkata on April 20. Karan Johar, Gauri Khan, Arjun Rampal and Mehr Jessia, Sanjay and Maheep Kapoor, Chunky and Bhavna Pandey, Riteish Deshmukh, Queenie Dhody, Kajal Anand, Karisma Kapoor and Malaika Arora will be attending the matches. Priyanka Chopra, Amrita Arora, Kareena Kapoor and Farah Khan were invited too.”

The Morani brothers were to do a grand event for the opening ceremony in Bangalore but that had to be cancelled after instructions from Bangalore franchisee. So the Moranis will only be doing firework displays.

Sanjay Gupta, who will be directing Katrina Kaif and Zayed Khan in Mallya’s IPL music video, sums it up, “I know Katrina is performing. I will be shooting the video with her on April 15 in Mumbai. She’s being presented as a rock star diva in it. She was No 1 on my wish list and Vijay made it happen. The opening matches are in Bangalore and Kolkata with the two most hyped and celebrated teams Kolkata Knight Riders and Royal Challengers it will be fun!”

SRK’s close buddy Farah Khan says, “I was invited too but I couldn’t go as my babies are too young at two months. I can’t leave them for 24 hours.”

Karan Johar says, “Yes I will be going for both the ceremonies to cheer Shah Rukh’s team. It’s like my own.”

Upala KBR

SRK to sell IPL tickets for as low as Rs.100

Next week this time the biggest cricketing extravaganza -IPL (Indian Premiere League) would be on and cricket mania is surely going to be at an all time high for the following few weeks.

Needless to say the presence of Bollywood stars in some cricket matches would truly be a case of sone pe suhaaga for every Indian. The opening match of the IPL itself sees Dr.Vijay Mallya's 'Bangalore Royal Challengers' take on Shah Rukh Khan's 'Kolkata Knight Riders' at the Chinaswamy stadium in Bangalore.

While most of the team captains and owners would be present for the opening ceremony in Bangalore on April 18th, once the tournament starts, most owners would be seen only in the places where their teams are playing.

So this means that Shah Rukh Khan would be seen cheering his team Kolkata Knight Riders wherever they play. The charismatic Khan is particularly looking forward to cheering his team at the spectacular Eden Gardens stadium in Kolkata. In fact, Khan has even decided to keep the ticket prices as cheap as Rs. 100 (lowest denomination) so that the youth can get to witness all the cricketing action live.

What's more, Shah Rukh would be even handing over every 1000th purchased ticket personally to the spectator. The superstar has even urged some of his good friends to be present along with him to cheer his team.

Surely, Shah Rukh is going all out to promote his team and get maximum spectators to watch the action. After all it's no mean feat filling the massive Eden Gardens.