Looking forward to 2009 in Bollywood

The New Year has dawned with a promise of more entertaining and thought-provoking cinema from Bollywood. Will new milestones be reached in 2009? Here’s a look.

If 2008 ended on a promising note, 2009 begins with a bang, with some big banner movies set to hog the marquee. The Bhatt camp’s Raaz - The Mystery Continues and the Sippys’ Chandni Chowk To China with Akshay Kumar at the helm would be the two scene stealers of January, which will also witness the release of Zoya Akhtar’s dark comedy on Bollywood, Luck By Chance , due for January 30 release along with Harman Baweja ’s second film Victory . Danny Boyle’s Slumdog Millionaire , a Golden Globe nominee and an Oscar hopeful, might get released in January after its successful run at overseas box office.

The month of February would see the release of movies like Priyadarshan’s Billu Barber and Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra ’s Dilli 6.

This year will see directors like Anurag Basu and Imtiaz Ali returning after a break of one year. While the Rakesh Roshan produced Kites can hit the theatres any time around mid year as the movie is still in the making and its major chunk is still to be shot, Imtiaz Ali will comeback with yet another love story, untitled yet, starring Deepika Padukone and Saif Ali Khan .

Rajkumar Hirani will not give any Munnabhai jhappi, but will return with a thought-provoking film that takes a dig at our education system in 3 Idiots which is based on bestseller novel ‘Five Point Someone’ and has Aamir Khan and Kareena Kapoor in the lead roles. Most likely, ‘3 Idiots’ would close 2009.

Lavishly budgeted movies in this period of recession may appear absurd but they would be one too many in 2009. London Dreams by Vipul Shah, Kambakkth Ishq by Sajid Nadiadwala , and the Salman Khan -written historical drama ‘Veer’ are some of the celluloid mammoths that would roar in 2009. ‘Kambakkth Ishq’ is particularly special as it has some Hollywood biggies in cameos for the first time in an Indian masala movie.

On the contrary, industry giants like Yashraj and Dharma Productions have few movies lined up this year. There is no news as to when Karan Johar’s much anticipated My Name Is Khan with Kajol and Shahrukh Khan is going to release. Possibly, by this year end. Yashraj will begin this year with New York directed by Kabir Khan and starring John Abraham , Neil Nitin Mukesh and Katrina Kaif . Katrina would also be seen in a love story Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani with Ranbir Kapoor .

Himesh Reshammiya will be back with a movie named A Love Issshtory , again paired opposite two beautiful ladies. You can also watch some off-beat parallel cinema like Dev. D , Aur Devdas , Tera Kya Hoga Johnny , Wake Up Sid , Delhi Belly , Lamha , Teen Patti , Johnny Mastana which has Amitabh Bachchan in the lead, Nagesh Kukunoor’s Eight By Ten or the Bipasha Basu starrer Pankh or Mallika Sherawat ’s nagin act in Hisss .

Some serious directors would dabble in comedy for the first time. Ashutosh Gowarikar is trying some rib-tickling humour in What's Your Raashi with Priyanka Chopra and Harman Baweja. And Vishal Bharadwaj will return with Kaminay which stars Shahid Kapur and Priyanka in the lead.

And not to forget, Sanjay Leela Bhansali is returning back to what he does best and directing a movie with Hrithik and Aishwarya Rai . Ash would also be seen in Mani Ratnam’s next with hubby Abhishek Bachchan .

From the look of it, 2009 holds out a promising spread.

Sallu finds a new home

Salman Khan has all of a sudden become a workaholic. He has been shooting straight hours and working more than...probably ever! Recently, the actor who was shooting for Wanted Dead Or Alive in Berlin was returning home and since he was running late, he had to directly rush to Film City for the shoot of his film Veer. And the actor did not even complain! It is also rumoured that Boney Kapoor had hired this special chartered flight for Salman so that he could get back home as soon as possible.

Despite jet lag, Salman rushed to the sets of Veer in his make-up van which was waiting for him outside the airport.

A source revealed, "Salman reached the sets of Veer directly. He greeted everyone and started shooting almost immediately. Finally he took a two hour break and rested in his van before continuing with the remaining shoot for the day. He shot till ten in the night."

The source further added, "Salman is very motivated about his dream venture Veer. The film is very close to his heart. He is making sure that there's no delay in the schedule because of him."

We also heard that to save time traveling from his Bandra residence to Film City, the actor has been hitting the gym at Whistling Woods close to the sets of Veer. Looks like the make up van has finally become his second home!

I haven't met Salman yet: Lisa Lazarus

Miss Universe UK 2008 Lisa Lazarus is all set to make a Bollywood debut in Salman Khan's Veer. She tells us about herself and her Bollywood ambitions.

Tell us about yourself.

I am easy to be with and have managed to keep myself grounded in spite of all the glamour and fame. I have been modeling since I was a child because I was very tall even then. Then I won my first beauty pageant when I was 16 and continued to take part in and win several pageants. I have also done several ad campaigns and ramp shows. I am currently the ambassador for the World Peace Mission.

How did you become a part of Veer?

When I won the Miss Universe UK pageant in May, I got a lot of publicity worldwide. So the producers had seen my footage and they liked my pictures. I fit the bill of the British girl they were looking for perfectly and I didn't even have to audition for it so I grabbed the opportunity with both hands

Did you read the script? What is your role in the film?

I have read the script and I think it is an absolutely amazing story line about love and its complications and a lot of other things. The movie is set in the 1890s. It is very grand and everything is exaggerated: the sets, the costumes, the hair and the acting. I play Angela, a young British girl who comes to India with her father and gets lost in the jungle. So Salman finds me and becomes my hero. I fall in love with him even and we get a bit close. I have to try hard to get his affection because he is already in love with someone else.

What do you think about Salman Khan?

Actually I haven't met him yet. We have been communicating through other people. I have never heard anyone saying anything bad about him so he seems to be an amazing guy. I will meet him today as he has returned from Greece and we will start shooting for Veer.

How are you preparing for the role? Is it tough?

I am learning Hindi and am rehearsing my dance routines non-stop so that I am absolutely prepared when we start shooting. I find the pronunciations tough but I am getting there. Namaste is all I can say. The hard work for this film will be worth it.

Have you seen any Hindi films?

Yes I have but I don't remember the names. Bollywood stars and movies are very popular in the UK; I think I know more about Bollywood than Hollywood. I like Salman's recent movie with Katrina and the other one where he is roaming around on the beach in his Speedo.

What do you think about Katrina? Have you met her?

I think she is an absolutely beautiful woman and one of my idols at the moment. I have seen her on Vogue and I would to follow in her footsteps.

How do you like India?

I have been here for four days and I absolutely love it. I feel relaxed and at home. There has been no culture shock for me. Everyone is so kind and always willing to help. I feel settled here and very safe. I don't like hot food, so the hotel guys made this mild chicken curry for me and I loved it.

What would you have been, if not a model or actress?

It is every child's dream to be a model or an actress and I am living my dream. For back up, I have a degree in Radiography which is the study of X-rays so I can work in a hospital if I want to.

Do you have any dream roles?

I loved Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman, she is my favourite actress. I would love to do a Bond film because they are so popular the world over but then without the songs and dancing, they are not as fun as Hindi films.

Do you have any previous acting experience?

I have done theatre and presented a few TV shows. I am very comfortable in front of the camera.

What are your hobbies?

I like to play golf, though I get bored easily and don't play much. I like listening to pop music and Britney and the Pussycat Dolls are my favourite singers. I love the Hindi songs they play at clubs back in the UK, you can dance anyhow and it looks good because the songs are great.

Is Bollywood a one-off thing or are you here to stay?

Veer is an amazing start and new experience for me. I love meeting people from different, countries, cultures and religions. I love India and don't want to leave so I hope more opportunities come up and I establish myself here.

Salman's 'new girl' arrives in Mumbai

It has been widely reported over the internet and in the tabloids that Salman Khan has found a new girl from London who resembles Katrina Kaif, to act in his movie “Veer”.

Salman has got the reputation of finding look-alikes of his lady love.

However, while Zarine Khan, who’s also acting in “Veer”, comes close to looking like Katrina, Miss UK Lisa Lazarus has got absolutely no resemblance to Kat.

We got a chance to see the beauty queen in person at the Mumbai airport today (December 3) as she arrived amidst major chaos created by media and security guards.

I am a little unprofessional

Confession time for Salman Khan as he returns as a Yuvraaj with Subhash Ghai and Katrina Kaif…

Many headlines later, Salman Khan and girlfriend Katrina Kaif are now back together…in a film. After doing "Maine Pyaar Kyun Kiya" and "Partner" together, the two lovebirds parted ways professionally for a while and pursued films with other stars. Even as Salman romanced an assortment of actresses, Kat gave hit after hit with Akshay Kumar and others. With "Yuvraaj", they're returning as a couple on-screen.

Understandably, both Katrina and Salman are pretty excited with the project. "This is the third time I have worked with Katrina. We earlier did "Partner" and "Maine Pyaar Kyun Kiya", both of which were comedies but we weren't paired with each other. She was opposite Govinda and Sohail Khan. But in "Yuvraaj", she's been paired with me," says Salman.

The two had good fun working on the project, not only because of the rapport they share with each other but also with director Subhash Ghai and co-star Anil Kapoor. The promos look good, the posters are attention-grabbing and "Yuvraaj"'s music too is scintillating. In fact, lately, most of the films Salman has done have had hit music, whether they themselves were hits or not. What's Salman's newfound connection with music all about? "I don't know. I can't sing, nor can I dance too well. Guess I'm just lucky my films have good music," says the original muscleman of Bollywood.

His choice of music in his own time is retro, jazz, 60s ,70s and 80s rock and roll music and even soft rock. No time for Bollywood music, we guess.

More than working with Katrina, it's coming together again with Subhash Ghai that's made "Yuvraaj" special for Salman. Some years ago, the two had a spat that ended with the actor landing a slap on the producer-director's face. A lot of acrimony followed but the two have since kissed and made up. "I was a little nervous because this is the first time I am working with Subhash. I am a good worker but I am a little unprofessional," is Salman's surprise confession.

Now that they've called a truce, he's willing to do whatever Subhash tells him to. Including promoting reality shows. "Wherever Subhash tells me to go, I will." Though he will, Salman is not in favour of overdoing the promotion bit. "Audiences can tell in the first promo only whether the film is good or bad. I don't understand promoting a film so much. I feel it's overexposing the film," he says.

After "Yuvraaj", Salman has Veer coming up. The actor, who is also a painter, has turned a writer with this. Following in the footsteps of his scriptwriter daddy Salim, he's penned the story for "Veer". "Writing is in my genes. "Veer" revolves around a father and a son. It's about a son who is ready to give up his life to keep his father's words. But that's not too relevant in today's times so the story had to be set in the 18th century," he elaborates.

Parallels are being drawn between "Gladiator" and "Veer", but Salman denies it has anything to do with the Hollywood film. "It's an original script."

What is not always original is the role Salman plays regularly. Okay, so he's seen as a Bollywood brat. But why does he take up bratty roles on-screen too? "Because I can do only a few roles. I can do action, I can do romance, I can do comedy, I can do drama, I can do intense roles, I can play a guy who gets beaten up, I can beat people up. So, I am very limited with these concerns," is his simple reply.

One role that's suited him best is that of a He-Man. Lately, however, a number of actors, including Shah Rukh Khan and even chocolate boy Aamir Khan, are building up six-packs. Aamir is the latest entrant to the beefed-up bod club. What does the original six-pack king feel about that? "I liked Aamir's body. I liked his posters. He has worked out a lot and that's showing."

No jealousy here. But that's Salman for you. A simple man caught in a bad image.

Salman Khan's beefed up, bronzed look in Veer

Few years ago, Shah Rukh Khan played the role of Veer in Yash Chopra's love story Veer-Zaara. Now Salman Khan is all set to star in an action film titled Veer.

The story of this film (directed by Anil Sharma) has been written by Salman himself and while we did show you some pics of the actor in his new look for Veer earlier, this picture gives you a clearer idea of what to expect from this flick.

Salman, who is always known for experimenting with his looks, is seen in a beefed up, bronzed look with unusually long hair. The actor is seen wearing a fur jacket and an ethnic neckpiece and kada (bangle) Also from the looks of it, Salman seems to be playing a warrior of another era given the fact that he is seen holding a sword in one hand and a shield in the other.

In the recent past, Abhishek Bachchan tried the 'superhero meets warrior' look in Drona but unfortunately the film sank without a trace. Will Sallu bhai be able to pull of this warrior act in Veer, one will have to wait and watch.

Salman plays an 18th century warrior from Central India in Veer

Salman Khan's period film Veer is set in the 18th century and covers the period from 1820 to 1930. A source related to the film reveals the story of Veer revolves around a sect of people called the Pindaris.

The Pindaris were a horde of cruel marauders, who from their headquarters in Central India ravaged and plundered the neighbouring regions as well as some distant areas.

During the eighteenth century, they adopted plundering and robbery as their profession. The Marathas armies employed the Pindaris in their battles as auxiliary forces.

It is learnt that the film will be extensively shot in various locales in London and Rajasthan. Salman and director Anil Sharma are looking out for able-bodied men who will play the Pindari warriors along with Salman.

The source says, "Salman plays the title role of Veer in the film. He's a Robin Hood of sorts, who robs the British officers and helps the poor. Salman has watched Mel Gibson's The Patriot and was quite impressed with the gun battle scenes. He wants to do the same with Veer."

Check out Salman Khan's ethnic look in Veer

Salman Khan is known to experiment with his looks and hairstyle for his films. Who can forget the hysteria which his hairstyle in Tere Naam created? It almost became like a fashion statement among young boys across the length and breadth of the country.

Now Salman seems to have yet again experimented with his looks (and his locks) for his forthcoming film Veer. These pictures sent to us by one of our users shows the brawny actor in a completely different get-up. Also seen in another pic is actor Mithun Chakraborty sporting a totally ethnic look with turban, bracelets et al. For the uninitiated, Veer is a period action film directed by Anil Sharma. The film is special to Salman for more reasons than one, as he himself has written the story of this flick.


Coming back to apna Sallu bhai's look, the actor is seen sporting a red tikka and a huge piece of ancient Indian styled jewellery round his neck. However, what is most striking is the hair-do that he is sporting. Will this one also create a fashion trend of sorts? Your guess is as good as ours.

A special song in 'Veer'

Salman Khan wants to ensure that his next home production, Veer, makes all the right noises. The actor who has already started shooting for the film wants a lavish song in this period film.

It is believed that the song will appear during the end credits. Sallu wants the biggies of the industry to feature in it; like they did in Shah Rukh Khan's home production, Om Shanti Om. Sallu had also featured in the song.

Even though details are sketchy, sources reveal the mood will be celebratory. Insiders reveal that Salman and director Anil Sharma have a difference of opinion about including this song.

While Salman wants it, Sharma feels there is no place for it in a period film like Veer. A source reveals, "Salman has the last word as far as Veer is concerned. He doesn't like to take opinions, he just instructs his team to include his viewpoints at any cost. This has become a matter of debate between him and the director."

Presently Bhaijaan (as industrywallas call Salman) doesn't want the news of this special song getting out as he hasn't got any confirmation from the actors.

Buzz is that these names appear on his wishlist: Sanjay Dutt, Saif Ali Khan, Akshay Kumar and even newcomer Imran Khan. There are lot of other names as well. All except Shah Rukh Khan.

"Salman wants to show his power and status in the industry by including such a song in Veer."

Buzz is that the song will have all the actors dressed up in period costumes and praise Salman's character in the film. However Anil Sharma says, "This is a baseless rumour, there's no such song being planned."

Salman in search of someone new

After the grandeur success of romantic comedy PARTNER Salman Khan seemed to have hiked his demand. It is heard that he is charging pretty good amount for his work. Recently it was heard that Salman hiked his bill for the upcoming movie VEER.

According to sources he is charging high for VEER not just for his popularity but the very special reason being the story of the film is penned by him. With this he graduates from an actor to writer. Who knows he might step his foot in direction also someday? But as of now he has roped in APNE fame Anil Sharma to direct the film. Both the actor and director had a long time wish to work with each other. And VEER seems to accomplish their wish.

It is also heard that Sallu is taking keen interest at every step on the way. He has been speaking with everyone from set design to clothes to action. He has begun his own practice and work out regime to get even fitter for the role. Many British actors have been finalized. Though all the details are being carefully worked out but the makers and especially Sallu is yet to finalize the leading lady for the film. Many top actresses have shown their keen interest to be part of this project.

According to the recent grapevine Katrina is trying hard to push her sibling sister Isabel to play the role. Since Isabel is keen to act in movies and also Sallu is on a look out for a fresh face for the movie. But nothing seems to be confirmed as yet.

Producer Vijay Galani's VEER is a period film and it is likely to hit the floors in the first week of coming August.

‘Veer’: love story with war background

Vijay Galani Moviez's VEER is all set to roll in the first week of August. It is a period film, a love story with war background, set in 1900. Salman Khan plays the lead role, while a new girl will star opposite him. The hunt is still on for a new face.

The film also features Mithun Chakraborty in a key role. A number of British actors have already been signed to play important characters. Producer: Vijay Galani. Director: Anil Sharma. Writer: Salman Khan.

Taran Adarsh

Priyanka patches up with Salman

If sources are to be believed Priyanka Chopra will be part of Anil Sharma’s forthcoming film Veer . Interestingly Salman Khan who shared cold vibes with Priyanka will be seen together once again as lead pair after their last release film Salam-E-Ishq .

According to our source Slaman, who was miffed with Priyanka had decided not to work with her after Salam-E –Ishaq . But Priyanka who wanted a reconciliation with Salman, tried hard. Reportedly she also wanted to be part of Sohail Khan’s Mr And Mrs Khanna but Salman who didn’t wish to work with her, selected Kareena Kapoor for it.

Apparently Priyanka who started her career with Anil Sharma’s Hero always wanted to be a part of his films. It is believed that when she heard the story of Veer , she expressed her desire to be part of it.

However she had a meeting with director Anil Sharma who has agreed to take her in lead. A source reveals that “Priyanka met Salman last week at his Galaxy apartment to solve the problems between them. However, Salman who is known to be big hearted man has agreed to work with her. Priyanka will be doing the female lead in the film.”

When we quizzed Anil Sharma he said, “I haven’t signed her yet but Priyanka is family so whenever we want she will be part of our project. I am still working on the script. As of now I can say that Salman will be seen in main lead but we are yet to decide about the leading lady.”

Veer ’s story has been written by Salman Khan. Anil Sharma’s inhouse writer Shaktiman is writing its script. He further adds that Veer is a period drama set in the year 1852 to 1900. “ Veer will be Salman’s first period film, where he will be sporting a complete different look. I have told him to lose weight thus he is working on his body to get a specific look that is required for his character.”

It is also believed that Veer is going to a huge project which will commence in July.

Reshma Kelkar, Indiatimes Movies