Rakhi reveals the secret of her Swayamvar

Drama queen Rakhi Sawant can do anything to become the talk of the town and the recent example being the drama of getting married on the reality show ‘Rakhi Ka Swayamvar’ to a reality show winner. As the final day is approaching, the minds are divided into two. The present debate is whether Rakhi Sawant is really tying the knot with the winner or she is just fooling the audience. Particularly on August 2, the truth will be unveiled but before that Rakhi herself revealed the secret of her much hyped marriage. She said that she is not tying the knot but getting engaged on that day.
Rakhi divulges, “Let me clarify, I’m not getting married, now. I’m selecting someone from the show to be my life partner. It’s more of an engagement. So far, I’ve dated the contestants on camera. Now, I’ll date the man I select off camera. I need to know the person well and I can’t gamble with my life for the sake of entertainment. There will be no saat pheres, maang mein sindoor or wearing a mangalsutra just yet. If after knowing the person well, I feel that he’s my Prince Charming, I’ll tie the knot”.
NRI Gujarati Elesh Parujanwala is the most prospective guy of Rakhi but the chances of the other two Manas Katyal or Chittiz Jain are also bright. Getting entangled to a reality man is not a new experience for Rakhi. If you recall her first boyfriend Abhishek Awasthi was also from a reality show.
Ref:http://www.bollywoodmantra.com/news/rakhi-reveals-the-secret-of-her-swayamvar/4634/

Ash, Abhi escape unhurt

Havoc was created on the set of Mani Ratnam’s ‘Raavan’ when a tusker went out of control. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Abhishek Bachchan were on the location and had a narrow escape from the wild elephant. It killed the mahout by piercing trunk into him.
The elephant damaged some props and equipments on the set. The elephant blocked the road and made impossible for the crew members to return to their hotel. To ensure safety, the forest officials moved some members including Ash and Abhi to a safer place of Vazhachal area in the vicinity.
After struggling for few hours, the tusker was brought under control.
Mani’s 'Raavan’ has already been delayed for various reasons and now the tusker incident has brought the shooting to a halt for sometime

Himesh Reshammiya undergoes vocal surgery

Next time when you will hear Himesh Reshammiya, you will find hard to recognize his voice as the singer cum actor has undergone voice modulation. Himesh who loves experimenting new things has undergone vocal chord surgery to bring deviation in his singing. Well known as a nasal singer, Himesh Reshammiya has undergone vocal surgery not only to get rid of his nasal voice but to add one more voice to his sole singing. On man with two different voices will be the specialty of Himesh Reshammiya.
Confirming the news, a source said, “Himesh wanted to do something different and after numerous experiments with his looks and his hair, he recently had an operation for his vocal chords. Apart from his nasal voice, he has now added a different voice, which is a base middle octave. This way, he will have two distinct voices and anybody who identifies him with his style will never be able to say that the other voice is also his. It is a closely guarded secret and Himesh doesn’t want anyone to know about it.”
The source further adds, "The voice is extremely good and the songs that he has recorded are sure to work with his fans.”
He has gone under knife few months back in South Africa while shooting for his next film, ‘Kajraare’. His new voice can be heard there.
Time will say how appealing his new voice is.
Ref:http://www.bollywoodmantra.com/news/himesh-reshammiya-undergoes-vocal-surgery/4630/

Will Love Aaj Kal succeed at Box Office?

July 30th, 2009
The Kambakkht Ishq wave is finally on its way out, and if there is a film which can easily take over the crown of being the most anticipated release of this month (or even this year), then it has to be LOVE AAJ KAL. Celebrity astro numerologist Bhavikk Sangghvi unveils the fate of this much awaited film.
“The title LOVE AAJ KAL adds up to Number 30 which simply put is not so auspicious, not so inauspicious. Just about average. I had advised the film’s director Imtiaz Ali to spell the film title as LUV AAJ KAL for better prospects, but it was too late by then, as the publicity of the film was just about to start by that time” informs Bhavikk.
“The film producer Saif Ali Khan (16th August 1970) is Number 7 person in numerology and the year 2009 adds up to Number 2. Numbers 2 and 7 always go hand in hand. This year in general is good for people born on dates 1, 2, 4 or 7. Saif is a Leo ruled by Number 1 (Sun) and will soon be entering his 40th year, so time is in his favour and his first production will surely be a hit” predicts Bhavikk.
Bhavikk continues “As for the leading lady Deepika Padukone (5th January 1986), she is in her 24th year, which is one of her best numbers and so the lady will also bring luck to the film. The Kareena versus Deepika war is just being blown out of proportion as even with Kareena’s presence in the film, it would have achieved the same success!”
“But during the period between 21st July–22nd August, Sun is placed in its own sign Leo which is ruled by Number 1. It does not gel well with Number 3, which the film title adds up to. So, in that respect the film will primarily do well in metros and big cities mainly, while the business in smaller centres might get affected!” concludes Bhavikk. All said and done, LOVE AAJ KAL will definitely bring some relief to the hit starved industry, positively!
Ref:http://www.realbollywood.com/news/2009/07/love-aaj-kal-box-office.html

Will My Name Is Khan to do a Slumdog?

July 30th, 2009
Karan Johar will be going global with his movie My Name Is Khan very soon. There had been speculations abound whether Karan would be selling the world rights of the film to either Yash Raj Films or to his new business associate UTV (they have tied up for Qurbaan and Wake Up Sid). But it is now learnt that Karan is tying up with a big international distribution company for the movie. This company is none other than Fox Studios. Apparently, they have already bought Karan’s My Name Is Khan for a whopping Rs 100 Crore.
Multiple Oscar winner Slumdog Millionaire was a Fox product and the aggressive manner by which the studio is known to promote their films worldwide; one is sure My Name Is Khan will definitely be on everyone’s lips the world over, during the time of its release. With its topical theme and world’s most popular actor Shah Rukh Khan in it, we won’t be surprised if the movie shatters box-office records worldwide, apart from generating critical acclaim just like Fox’s Slumdog Millionaire.
However, Karan Johar states that he is still working that out! My Name Is Khan is releasing either end of January or in February. A month of shoot is still left. Karan’s film is set against the 9-11 terror attacks and its impact on an Indian Muslim living in the US. It is being touted as the most awaited releases of the year. The film also stars Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol in the lead after a gap of eight long years.
Ref:http://www.realbollywood.com/news/2009/07/my-name-is-khan-slumdog.html

Salman Khan at the music launch of Shadow

Salman Khan is one man who loves to be in the good books of everyone. Recently, he was invited to a music launch of the forthcoming film Shadow. The film is a suspense thriller directed by Rohit Nayyar.
On the event, as soon as Salman entered the premises, the media, which were present there in hordes, mobbed him immediately. Poor Sallu was shoved under his nose with every microphone present in the room
Of course, all this shoving and pushing irked the temperamental Sallu miya, who got so much irritated that he thought of walking out of the music launch
The organizers had to pacify Sallu Bhai, before he could burst into a temper and stage a walkout
Also, present at the occasion were the cast and crew of Shadow. Our macho man launched the audio CD and wished good luck to the film. Shadow boasts of actors like Naseer Khan, Arjun Sherawat, Milind Soman, Sonali Kulkarni and Hrishita Bhatt and is slated to release on August 7.
Ref:http://www.realbollywood.com/news/2009/07/shadow-music-launch.html

Shilpa Shetty back as host for Bigg Boss 3!

July 30th, 2009
many are aware the channel Colors has already began their planning for the second season of their popular reality show Bigg Boss in full swing. The show is being planned to go on air from coming October. Fans of Shilpa Shetty will be rejoiced to know that she has been more or less confirmed for hosting the show yet again.
Reveals a source, “The channel has been in talks with Shilpa Shetty for hosting the second season and she seems to have given her nod, however she is still to be signed on the dotted line. The talks about the money factor are yet to be finalized. One can recall she was paid a bomb for hosting the show. But this year with the ongoing recession, she may have to adjust her price. Even Salman Khan has agreed for a lesser price for hosting 10 Ka Dum’s second season so it is most likely that Shilpa too, will settle for something lesser than what she was paid last year.”
The source further adds, “The makers of the show are also planning to bring a lot of variations in the show by adding more surprise elements and more interesting guests. Faces that have been constantly shown on TV for the last one year may be avoided because they are already over exposed. The hunt for the 12 house inmates is on.
Ref:http://www.realbollywood.com/news/2009/07/shilpa-shetty-host-bigg-boss-3.html

Ooucccch Potato in Iss Jungle

Champagne, caviar, green salads, nuts, dry fruits were all were once the must-haves for celebrities, with potatoes being a big no-no for the very health conscious celebrities!
But did you ever imagine these guys would steal potatoes to slow down their hunger pangs in the jungle! As part of a group ‘treasure trunk’ task, the celebrities were asked to peel sweet potatoes and find the right key to the trunk. Our desperate- hungry for food celebrities not only started cutting the sweet potatoes but also eating them on the spot!
In-fact, some even sheepishly stuffed the potatoes in their pocket.

Saif follows in Bebo’s steps!

This may sound too preposterous but don’t be surprised if Saif Ali Khan’s Love Aaj Kal takes as huge an initial as Kareena Kapoor’s Kambakkht Ishq did a few weeks back. The trade is extra upbeat about Saif’s maiden production as there is huge demand for the film.
Reveals a trade insider, “Eros, the co-producer of Kambakkht Ishq and Love Aaj Kal, doesn’t need to despair looking at the falling collections of Kambakkht Ishq because their upcoming film Love Aaj Kal just might shake the box-office. The craze for the love story, directed by Imtiaz Ali, is growing with each passing day, thanks to its catchy promos and catchier (read super hit) music by Pritam. By the time the film is released on 31st July, the public will hopefully be in the grip of Love Aaj Kal fever. In the big cities at least, it shouldn’t be a surprise if Saif’s maiden home production, co-starring Deepika Padukone, took a cent percent opening. Yes, yes, Saif is not known to big opening initially, because rarely has any of his solo starrers taken a flying start. But then, there’s a first time for everything. Love Aaj Kal just could be that first solo starrer of Saif to take a bumper opening.”
Ref:http://www.realbollywood.com/news/2009/07/saif-follows-bebo.html

Happy Birthday Sanjay Dutt!!

This guy needs no introduction! Sirf naam hi kaafi hai! Celebrity astro numerologist Bhavikk Sangghvi predicts what’s in store for Bollywood’s most loved ‘bhai’– Sanju baba in days to come. Sanjay Dutt was born on the 29th July 1959, which makes him a Number 2 (Moon) person in numerology. He is a Leo (ruler Sun– Number 1) and his destiny number adds up to Number 6 (Venus). Being ruled by Number 2, he is automatically ruled by Number 7 (Neptune). “Sanju will be entering his 51st year (adds to 6) which indicates some great times in his personal life. On top of that, the year 2009, which adds up to No.2 is one of his best numbers and will further bring joyful moments. It seems his wish to be a father is likely to come true very soon,” predicts Bhavikk. “On the professional front, his next release ‘Blue’ adds up to No.7. Sanju is ‘karmically’ connected with Number 7 (Numbers 2 and 7 always go hand in hand) and so this film will earn him a lot of praise and appreciation. Later in ‘Aladin’ the title of the film adds up to No.6, which will further increase his fan following. In ‘Chatur Singh Two Star’ too, his character will be applauded,” says Bhavikk. But Bhavikk continues in the same breath, “The above mentioned films may not necessarily turn out to be big hits, but Sanju baba will only catapult his position with these films”. “I would advise him to wear a Yellow Sapphire to be set in gold for taking decisions more firmly and strengthening the bond with his family,” signs off Bhavikk. HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BABA!

Aakash gets too close to Negar!

Looks like Shweta Tiwari’s untimely exit from the show hasn’t made any difference to the mood in the camp. All of them have hit it off very well with the new entrant Negar Khan. In fact, the unpredictable Aakashh told Negar that he knows how to help women; he also claimed that he could help her with her makeup, her hair wash, everything.
Looks like this bad boy is on a mission to impress Negar!
He has not left any opportunity to get close to her, and at times hugs and kisses her too. But he is not alone in wooing the lady, even Aman Verma, who we thought would sulk after Shweta’s exit, sang songs for her and in return Negar obliged by dancing with Mona for them.
Ref:http://www.realbollywood.com/news/2009/07/akash-negar-close.html

Ragini Khanna ne rachaya swayamvar

Ragini Khanna will be soon seen in a comedy reality show Dekh India Dekh on Sony. The actress carried herself very well as Rakhi Sawant and surprised the audience with her humour.
“She was in the team of Rajesh Kumar (Akbar) and Rajiv Nigam (Birbal) where both of them want to marry Rakhi (Ragini). It was a good act, but all three of them failed to impress the judges,” states our source.
Ragini seems to be quite nervous. “As soon as she entered on the stage, Ragini stumbled. With that she lost a bit of confidence, which could be seen in the act. Archana was not happy to see such a performance. She even pointed out about the script being too weak,” adds the source. “For Ragini this is the first time she is performing on stage. The actress fumbled a lot during her act. She accepted the criticism, though Rajesh and Rajiv did felt bad as they are one of the strong contenders in the show,” concludes the source.
Ref:http://www.realbollywood.com/news/2009/07/ragini-khanna-swayamvar.html

Charlize Theron ready for 'Arabia'

Charlize Theron's Denver and Delilah Films has acquired screen rights to Christopher Buckley's satirical novel "Florence of Arabia." Theron will produce and develop the film as a star vehicle.
Pic will be written by Dean Craig.
"Florence of Arabia" is about a State Dept. employee (to be played by Theron) who, after watching her friend marry the prince of a Middle East country and subsequently get executed, fights for equal rights for the women of that country.
Theron will produce through Denver and Delilah. The Johnson-Roessler Co. will be exec producer.
Craig is writing "The French Exchange" for Pathe and Forward Films, and he scripted "Fresh," a seven-episode series that airs on BBC in September. He also wrote "Death at a Funeral," the 2007 comedy that is being remade by director Neil LaBute for Screen Gems.
Theron is repped by One Talent Management and WME, Craig by UTA and Principal Entertainment.
Ref:http://www.variety.com/article/VR1118006613.html?categoryid=13&cs=1

SPC to distribute Yimou's 'Blood'

Sony Pictures Classics is continuing its relationship with filmmaker Zhang Yimou, agreeing to distribute his planned remake of the Coen brothers' comedic thriller "Blood Simple" domestically and in several major foreign territories.
The untitled redo will be set in a Chinese noodle shop in a dune-specked desert, rather than a bar in an unnamed Texas town, and revolve around the restaurant owner's plan to murder his adulterous wife and her lover.
Pic will be the first Zhang has helmed since shepherding the Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the 2008 Summer Olympic Games in Beijing.
SPC will unspool the "Blood Simple" remake in North America, Latin America, Australia and New Zealand.
"Blood Simple," released in 1984, was the first film the Coen brothers helmed together.
New version will be produced by Bill Kong, who has a long relationship with Sony Classics. SPC, co-founded and run by co-prexies Michael Barker and Tom Bernard, has distribbed five Kong-produced films, starting with Ang Lee's "Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon" in 2000.
New pic will be the 11th from Zhang that SPC will have released, dating back to 1991's "Raise the Red Lantern." Others include "Shanghai Triad," "House of Flying Daggers" and "Curse of the Golden Flower." Sony Classics also owns the rights to Zhang's first film, 1987's "Red Sorghum."
Ref:http://www.variety.com/article/VR1118006606.html?categoryid=13&cs=1

Starz adds 'Fly' to original slate

Diving deeper into the original series biz, Starz has given a 10-episode order to a half-hour dark comedy from multihyphenate Eric Schaeffer and "Seinfeld" alum Jill Franklyn.
Pay cabler also has a number of prospective series in development, including another project from Rob Thomas, creator-exec producer of the Starz comedy "Party Down," and a comedy from Matthew McConaughey's production shingle.
The Schaeffer/Franklyn series, tentatively titled "Failure to Fly," revolves around a support group for people who tried to commit suicide but are now embracing their second chance at a happy life.
Schaeffer will co-star and exec produce along with Franklyn. Dan Pasternack will serve as a producer. Starz ordered the series on the strength of its concept. Schaeffer and Franklyn are already working on scripts and are in the process of filling out the cast.
Schaeffer's credits include the FX comedy "Starved" and the Showtime docu-comedy "I Can't Believe I'm Still Single."
Starz is set to announce the pickup today during its presentation at the Television Critics Assn. summer press tour in Pasadena.
"Failure" will be lensed in Gotham, where Schaeffer is based. It's tentatively skedded to debut in the spring of 2010.
The "Failure" order is part of Starz's long-term plan to ramp up its roster of original series. The Liberty Media-owned cabler hopes to have various original skeins cycling through its Friday 10-11 p.m. slot on a 52-week basis next year.
Projects in the development hopper at the Starz Media production wing, headed by exec veep Bill Hamm, include "Waterloo," an hourlong laffer from scribe Thomas ("Veronica Mars"). It's described as a coming-of-age story involving a rock band, and it is loosely based on Thomas' youthful adventures.
Dan Etheridge, Danielle Stokdyk and Jennifer Gwartz join Thomas as producers on "Waterloo."
"Jonah and the Whale" centers on a young man's struggle to come into his own in the shadow of a famous, and highly disapproving, father. It hails from the J.K. Livin Prods. banner run by McConaughey, Mark Gustawes and Chad Mountain.
Martin Lawrence is working on an interracial love story for the channel that he would produce along with scribe Michael Soccio ("The King of Queens"). And Chris Albrecht and Rob Lee are shepherding a drama about a young femme fashion photographer (Daily Variety, July 15).
Ref:http://www.variety.com/article/VR1118006607.html?categoryid=14&cs=1

Aamir Khan’s 3.5 crore ad

Whether it is film or endorsement, Aamir Khan sign any deal with much thought and once he is into it, he gives his cent percent. The actor recently shot an expensive ad with a whopping price of Rs 3.5 crore and the specialty of the ad is that it will never go on air. So audience will miss to watch the ad as it is only for the corporate world. It will be played at the corporate’ conferences for business deal.
A source in the industry reveals, "Other actors in the industry are known to charge astronomical figures for shows, product endorsements and appearances. But when it comes to doing something totally out-of-the-box, only the perfectionist Aamir can achieve that."
The source further adds, "Aamir is a regular consumer of the group's products especially its rose sherbet. the reason why he agreed to model for the drink as well as its other products.
Moreover the company has a name and has stood guard for a century. It also has an international presence with its products in great demand in the West. Aamir weighed all these reasons before signing on the dotted line."
Ref:http://www.bollywoodmantra.com/news/aamir-khan-s-3-5-crore-ad/4620/

Priyanka Chopra beats Mallika Sherawat

By: Bollywood Mantra Staff on 25th July 2009
Mallika Sherawat may be the ‘Queen of Twitter’ but it is Priyanka Chopra who is ruling the net world. She has set a new record for having maximum number of Twitter friends. Piggy Chops has a total of 10,000 followers on Twitter in a month while Mallika has only 8,000 fans.
Priyanka Chopra is a net savvy and loves to interact with her fans. She is also available on Facebook. Piggy Chops is available to her fans anywhere and at anytime. Many celebrities’ tweeps now-a-days but Priyanka overdoes everyone. Excited Priyanka said, "I`m having a lot of fun. It`s a great way for me to interact with my `tweeps` directly... with no one in between! I think now that people have realised that it`s really me on twitter, the number of followers have grown. It`s mind blowing to have crossed this milestone within a month of being on twitter... Now I`m hoping my twitter family is going to grow even more!"
Mallika’s butt show even could not make her champion of the Twitter.
Ref:http://www.bollywoodmantra.com/news/priyanka-chopra-beats-mallika-shrewat/4613/

Is Kareena engaged to Saif?

A colossal solitaire ring in Kareena Kapoor’s finger sparked the rumor that Kareena Kapoor and Saif Ali Khan were engaged. Kareena has been spotted with the ring in various occasions and it is suspected to be an engagement ring from the Chotte Nawab.
However, Kareena dismissed to get engaged citing the elevation of her career graph. She said that no marriage on the cards for the next two years as she wanted to concentrate only on her career which is going great and does not want to get into a crucial commitment like marriage at this moment. Bebo became more ambitious post the success of her latest flick, ‘Kambakkht Ishq’.
Bebo knows very well that in Bollywood a married woman is hardly accepted, even Aishwarya and Kajol stand exceptional but all can’t be lucky like them.
Ref:http://www.bollywoodmantra.com/news/is-kareena-engaged-to-saif/4618/

A buffalo named after Katrina Kaif!

If actors are equipped in throwing tantrums to their actor friends and showed their smartness in naming their pet in the name of their rival then why not the aam jantas. In the reality game show hosted by Salman Khan, ‘Dus Ka Dum’, a doodh wala (Milkman) set the show on fire with his tongue-in-cheeks jokes and even left Salman Khan behind who is known for his humorous comments. The studio audience broke into laughter when the dhoodh wala quipped that he named his buffalo after the name of Katrina Kaif and Aishwarya Rai.
Salman Khan who is known for his hilarious comment and presence of mind remained stand still when the Milkman commented wild about his love. Apart from all those funny comments, Salman Khan also learnt how to wear dhoti from the Milkman and enjoyed the jokes cut on him, Katrina and Aishwarya.
Ref:http://www.bollywoodmantra.com/news/a-buffalo-named-after-katrina-kaif/4617/

Imran feels shy to go topless

Imran khan is young and handsome and young girls go crazy to see him shirtless but shy Imran refused to do the bare act. At a recent event, Imran Khan was mobbed by girls who screamed “Take your shirt off” to him.
A shy Imran said, “Please stop screaming, you’re embarrassing me. There’s no shirtless scene in my next film! I have an evening flight back to Mumbai, where my girlfriend is going to tell me that I came to Delhi just to flirt with the girls here. Waise, in Mumbai, we believe that Delhi girls are hotter. I’m going to take my report card back and tell the others about the girls here.”
On being insisted number of times, Imran said “Listen, I’m not the Khan that takes his shirt off! I’m a different Khan.”
Well, Imran is new in the industry but as time passes he is sure to break his shy and won’t feel uncomfortable to do the bare dare act.
Ref:http://www.bollywoodmantra.com/news/imran-feels-shy-to-go-topless/4616/

Ravi Kissan steps into Shahrukh’s shoes

Bhojpuri superstar Ravi Kissan is all set to play Devdas in a Bhojpuri remake of the super hit film. Bhagyashree of ‘Maine Pyar Kiya’ fame will play Paro but the role of Chandramuki is yet to be decided. Most probably, Shweta Tiwari of the popular TV serial ‘Kasauti Zindagi Ki’ will portray the character.
This would be Bhagyashree’s second Bhojpuri flick. “She was earlier seen in the film called Janam Janam Ka Saath which includes star cast like Manoj Tiwari and Nagma. She seems to be excited to play the role of Paro and make it big for herself in Bhopuri Cinema,” adds the source.
Buzz is that Jackie Shroff will be approached to play Chunni Babu as his work in Bhansali’s Devdas has been appreciated by the audience. The shooting will kick start in December after Ravi becomes free from his other assignments.
‘Devdas’ has been made into many languages and every time it has got awesome response at the box office. Let’s see whether the Bhojpuri ‘Devdas’ will be equally effective or not.
Ref:http://www.bollywoodmantra.com/news/ravi-kissan-steps-into-shahrukh-s-shoes/4615/

Ash wrapping up work quickly for motherhood

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan’s pregnancy hits the headlines very frequently but off late she is busy in assignments, endorsements and other affairs. 2008 had been a busy year for Ash and so is the running year. She has loads of projects in the discussion stage, production and post-production stage. But the actress has kept her projects very limited so that by the end of 2010, she might become free from any professional commitments and move towards motherhood. Ash-Abhi is planning parenthood by next year.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan wants to keep her schedule diary totally empty next year so that she could devote her full time to the new born which is on the way. Helping her to wrap up work quickly and supporting her in this period of heavy work load is her loving and caring husband Abhishek Bachchan. He has been a great pillar of support for Ash. According to source, "This no doubt is the busiest phase of Aishwarya's career. Such a flurry of assignments has never been seen before in any married actress' life and she'd be foolish to let such opportunities slip by. Luckily, Abhishek is thoroughly supportive of her career. She wants to complete as many of these assignments as she can to before she becomes a mother. Because once she gets into that role she wouldn't want any other distractions. That, Aishwarya is sure of."
Ref:http://www.bollywoodmantra.com/news/ash-wrapping-work-quickly-for-motherhood/4614/

Rekha to launch Shilpa’s spa

Evergreen beauty and yesteryears actress Rekha is going to launch Shilpa Shetty’s medispa Iosis in Mumbai. Rekha has been the one and only choice of Shilpa since long time. She feels that Rekha is synonymous with timeless beauty.
"I had to think of who was going to do the grand launch and couldn’t come up with a better name than the diva herself - someone who is synonymous with timeless beauty and wellness. So I approached (the one and only) Rekhaji," Shilpa posted on her blog shilpashettylive.com
"I’ve always looked up to her as an actor, role model for constant reinvention. We share a very special bond and have always been in touch with each other. I think it`s the South Indian connection. When I asked her to grace the occasion, she agreed and I was ecstatic," she further added.
Shilpa is opening the store in partnership with entrepreneur Kiran Bawa, well-known in beauty and wellness industry. This one will be first of its kind in Mumbai’s Khar area.
The medispa is a combination of four- styling, spa, salon and skin treatments .
Ref:http://www.bollywoodmantra.com/news/rekha-to-launch-shilpa-s-spa/4612/

Comic-Con wows audiences, studios

Posted: Sun., Jul. 26, 2009, 8:00pm
'Iron Man 2,' 'New Moon' panels a big hit
SAN DIEGO -- Hollywood left Comic-Con on a high note over the weekend as the first official footage shown of "Iron Man 2" generated a rousing reaction from thousands of fans.
It was the kind of response studios relish when showing off their upcoming pics at the annual confab in San Diego that has essentially become a ShoWest for the masses. Last year's huddle lured 126,000.
Just getting into the cavernous Hall H at the city's convention center proved an adventure for some of the 6,000 who filled the room and hadn't already staked out their seats much earlier in the day.
Hundreds were turned away in the attempt to enter the room, especially those holding counterfeit studio passes. Things were so chaotic that Bob Layton, who helped transform the "Iron Man" books for Marvel into a top property, nearly didn't make it inside.
"He almost didn't get in," said Robert Downey Jr. "That's how twisted Comic-Con is."
But Marvel and Par are beaming because of the response of those who did attend.
The two had already kicked off the week by launching their marketing campaign for the superhero sequel with a cover on Entertainment Weekly featuring the sequel's cast. And the buzz generated from a montage from the film -- which generated a standing ovation -- guarantees the pic as a major player when it bows next summer.
"Iron Man 2" concluded four days in which studios mostly succeeded in hyping their films.
Overall, studios did well in selecting which pics would be pushed to the fanboys, opting to come with genre fare, vs. an odd mix of comedies as in other years.
"I wish you could take the energy here and bottle it and give it to Hollywood to drink," said director Peter Jackson during his first appearance at the confab.
Only a few films -- Warner Bros.' "Jonah Hex," Sony's "Zombieland" and Screen Gems' "Legion" -- received lukewarm responses.
Disney's "A Christmas Carol," from Robert Zemeckis and Tim Burton's "Alice in Wonderland" couldn't have played better, especially as they kicked off Comic-Con's first 3-D screenings. Sequel "New Moon" brought back the screaming teens, tweens and "Twilight" moms, who were once again willing to camp out for days for any glimpse of the movie or its stars. And after years of hype, James Cameron satisfied the curious with more than 20 minutes from "Avatar."
Odd no-shows were Disney's "Prince of Persia" and "The Sorcerer's Stone," both from Jerry Bruckheimer. Universal Pictures also stayed home entirely. First-time presenters at the Con included Tim Burton, Cameron Diaz, Gary Oldman and James Marsden. None suffered from the deer-in-headlights syndrome that's plagued other celebs in the past.
Downey was easily the confab's biggest showman, charming the Con not only with "Iron Man 2" but also helping Warner Bros. sell "Sherlock Holmes," which bows Dec. 18, as a potential new franchise.
In fact, he spent more time onstage promoting that pic than his superhero sequel. His point was clear: that Sherlock Holmes isn't stuffy, but "the first superhero."
Studios clearly had a list of talking points:
• 3-D isn't just a gimmick anymore but a primary reason to head to the megaplex;
• the next installment of the "Twilight" franchise is in good hands with director Chris Weitz;
• New Line's reboot of "A Nightmare on Elm Street," with Jackie Earl Haley as Freddy Krueger, is far scarier than previous installments in the franchise;
• "Where the Wild Things Are" has the approval of author Maurice Sendak; and
• Sony's "District 9" is a thinking person's alien movie.
Most of the points went over well.
As long as filmmakers seem genuine about their pics, they generally get the support of the fans in front of them, who spread the word to millions of others.It helps when someone like Downey says, "We worked our asses off on this, and took it very seriously and this is why we're so proud" of "Sherlock Holmes."
Much has been said over the years about the importance of respecting the geeks.
Jackson proved just how to do that last week when he took the time during Sony's panel for "District 9" to update the crowd on "The Hobbit," of which two films are planned.
He explained the intricacies of Hollywood's development and casting process, of studio politics and the difficulty of getting movies made. It was a sincere explanation that had the crowd captivated.
That's hard to do. But when it's done the right way, you don't just gain their loyal support, you get treated like a rock star and so does the film.
After a roar of applause erupted when footage of "Sherlock Holmes" was screened, Downey quipped: "Well, I guess that played all right."
Ref:http://www.variety.com/article/VR1118006516.html?categoryid=13&cs=1

Aishwarya, a problematic lady!

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has reached a position where her demands are given top priority and no one dares to oppose her. In the process, she is wrongly utilizing her position and therefore creating problem for others. After having some tiff with Mani Ratnam relating make-up, Ash has again created similar problem on the set of Vipul Shah’s ‘Action Replay’.
Vipul has hired an international make-up artist for Ash but the lady refused to utilize her and insisted for her personal make-up man, Ojas Rajani. Vipul had engaged the best make-up artist for Aishwarya and Akshay Kumar but failed to convince Ash.
According to a source, “The cast was requested to get their make-up done in the make-up artists’ vanity van before the shoot. This is exactly how it’s done in Hollywood.” While the rest of the cast complied, Ash played truant. The source added, “Ash was completely averse to the idea of going to the make-up staffs’ trailer to get her make-up done, given her international star status. She refused to work with the firang artists and insisted on working with her personal make-up artist.”
Vipul without wasting any time and energy engaged Ash’s personal make-up artist for her. Earlier too Ash had created similar problem on the sets of Gurinder Chadda’s Bride and Prejudice, she opposed doing make-up by the artist whom the producer had engaged.
Vipul Shah however denied the story saying it is totally rubbish.
Ref:http://www.bollywoodmantra.com/news/aishwarya-a-problematic-lady/4604/

Saif Ali Khan robbed!

It is rarely heard that any film star was robbed but it’s true that actor Saif Ali Khan and director Imtiaz Ali had been robbed of their prized possessions during a promotional campaign in Ahmedabad. The crowds were so huge that the duo did not even know when they were pick-pocketed.
According to reports, Saif has been robbed of his expensive pair of Dolce & Gabanna glares while Imtiaz Ali lost his wallet that contains his credit cards and driving license. Saif consoles himself thinking some fans might keep his belongings as a memento but Imtiaz was crying over the loss of his valuable documents.
Well, this incident might have warned the other film stars also.
Ref:http://www.bollywoodmantra.com/news/saif-ali-khan-robbed/4603/

Asin spotted with Dhoni

‘Ghajini’ sensational Asin is the brand ambassador of Big Bazaar and the gal has recently shot an ad for the brand with captain of the Indian cricket team, Mahendra Singh Dhoni. The ad shot at a studio in Filmcity, Goregaon, Mumbai saw Asin and Dhoni changes ample number of clothes.
This would be Asin’s first Big Bazaar ad for television. Earlier she had only done a print ad campaign for the particular brand. Like Asin, Dhoni has also been the biggest brand ambassador of the country. Just few months back, he had shot an ad for an international shoe brand with Bipasha Basu.
This new Big Bazaar ad will come on TV from mid-August. Dhoni is free at the moment since no cricket is taking place till the tri series in Sri Lanka in September. Meanwhile, Asin is shooting for London Dreams starring Salman Khan and Ajay Devgan.
Ref:http://www.bollywoodmantra.com/news/asin-spotted-with-dhoni/4602/

The curious case of Shahid Kapoor- Ages from 28 to 22!

July 22nd, 2009
Don’t get confused as we are talking of Shahid’s upcoming flick with Yash Raj Films, where he is supposed to look much younger than his age. For this, the handsome lad has worked equally hard and has gained the perfect look that was demanded of him.
In Kaminey he has build a well-toned body and dons a macho man look. On the other hand, in his next flick with Yash Raj and Anushka Sharma, the actor has slimmed down and is looking very young.
“I work according to my scripts and the character that I am portraying. In Kaminey I needed a good physique for which I have worked for almost a year and sacrifice on my liking of food. Where as, in my next film with Anushka, I need to look much younger so I have done sacrifices over there too,” rues the young lad.
Elaborating on adapting himself according to the script, the actor chirps, “You can find good directors, producers and actors but not a good script. And if my script demands me to change, then I would do so gladly.”
“For this new look I had to cut down on my muscular body and get a thin shape, which I have attained. I also liked my look for this film and am ready to take all kinds of challenge. Even if my next venture demands me to go out of the way for physical or mental challenge I would go ahead with it,” he concludes.
Well definitely we can say for Shahid ki success ke liye kuch bhi karega.
Ref:http://www.realbollywood.com/news/2009/07/shahid-kapoor-ages.html

Chote Nawab, Saif forgets his Nawabi Style

July 22nd, 2009
The cast and crew of Love Aaj Kal can’t withhold itself from raving about the Chote Nawab- Saif Ali Khan. Of late, choreographer Bosco-Ceaser was heard all praises for the newbie producer.
Sharing some slambook moments with us, Bosco exclaims-
“He was overwhelmed by Saif’s gesture during the shoot of the song ‘Ahun Ahun’. Saif shot his part of the song in the attire of a Sardar. But alas! Motion control could not record the Sardar part of Saif while shooting. Guess it was too late to tell it to Saif, who due to his double role in the song had by that time already changed into his Jeans avatar! Now Saif had to do the retake, which meant changing back into the Sardar attire and doing his hair and make-up, again!”
But Chote Nawab threw no tantrums when informed of the glitch and rushed back to his van to change, Bosco says, “Saif without any complaints again changed into sardar attire for the shot. Motion control is a camera used to execute the shots in case of double roles, which involves a huge consumption of time and money on hourly basis. Still, Saif showed patience and was ready to do the shot again.”
Well, if we take a walk down the memory lane the now ‘producer’ Saif was known to be a proverbial Chote Nawab on the sets who would throw a hissy fit if such accidents took place. Well, somebody has very well said- ‘Only the wearer knows where the shoe pinches’. Wotsay Saif!
Ref:http://www.realbollywood.com/news/2009/07/chote-nawab-saif-style.html

Ek garam coffee ki pyali for John Abraham

July 22nd, 2009
We are talking about one incident that shocked Kavita Kaushik on the sets of ‘Phillum City,’ where she was shooting with handsome hunk John Abraham. She is playing an essential part in the movie too.
Elaborating on the incident she said, “In between the shots we just took a small break and were chilling around the sets. I was taken aback, when I saw John sipping hot coffee in a simple glass provided by the production house.”
“I was very curious and could not hold myself; I asked him- why is he not drinking the coffee in his personal mug. To my surprise he replied, ‘I don’t have any personal mug, and I always have tea or coffee in a glass provided by the production house,” she adds further.
Kavita was in an awkward position. “I was sipping my coffee in my personal mug and such a big star like John was so down to earth and had no qualms about having his coffee in a simple mug or a glass. He is really a nice person and I had a lovely time shooting with him,” she concludes.
Keep watching this space for more such hot and sizzling gossip direct from the sets of the films and serials.
Ref:http://www.realbollywood.com/news/2009/07/john-abraham-garam-coffee.html

The reason why Salman doesn’t feature in Arbaaz-Sohail Khan film

July 19th, 2009
While filmmakers are making films for overseas market, actor turned producer Sohail Khan has now made a film on the Kisaan of the country. Sohail states this film will be a real tribute to the farmers of the country. On why he picked up such a different subject, Sohail reveals, “I realized that one could only see the old in the village while their children have settled abroad. This plight made me take up the subject of Kisaan.
” Apart from Sohail the movie also stars Arbaaz and Jackie Shroff so why not Salman? Sohail clarifies on this bit stating, “Salman is already a star and larger than life character. I wanted someone who could balance the role. I know Salman bhai’s weaknesses and strength so never had in mind. Kisaan is not an issue-based movie. It is more about family bonding. Several issues of farmers are part of the film.”
Sohail says that the journey, which he took during the making of his earlier film Heroes, inspired Kisaan. “My traveling experiences during Heroes made me realize what the real India is all about? I met many farmers during this journey and I spent a lot of time with them. They were so pure in their thoughts and emotions. They speak from the heart. I realized that we are so engrossed in the superficial city life” he says.
The actor says that shooting in the interiors of Punjab itself was an experience by itself. “The panchayat and dalit scenes and dialogue appealed to the villagers while we were shooting. People came up to our director Punit Sira and told him that they were undergoing the same situation. What I realized was that most of the farmers were under poverty line and were earning a meager Rs. 2000 per month while they own a gold mine. They have emotional bonding towards their fields and are not ready to sell it off” concludes Sohail.
Ref:http://www.realbollywood.com/news/2009/07/arbaaz-sohail-khan-film-salman.html

SRK’s Dulha Mil Gaya sold for Rs. 25 crore

July 19th, 2009

Few months back we were the first ones to report about BIG Pictures giving up on the rights of Shah Rukh Khan starrer Dulha Mil Gaya produced by Viveck Vaswani. The long in the making film is now finally complete and has finally managed to get a buyer in a big SRK fan.
Our trade source reveals, “Vaswani has finally managed to get a buyer for his film for a very good price. Shah Rukh has only got an extended special appearance in the film with the main leads being Fardeen Khan and Sushmita Sen. But despite knowing that fact, the world rights of the film have been purchased for Rs. 25 crore by a Dubai based businessman. This particular Mr. Moneybags is not related to the film industry and is using this SRK starrer as a stepping stone in Bollywood. Since he is also a huge Shah Rukh Khan fan it didn’t take much time for agreeing to such a high price which Vaswani apparently quoted to him.”

Ref:http://www.realbollywood.com/news/2009/07/srk-dulha-mil-gaya-sold.html

Vikrant Massey left alone…

Vikrant Massey who is currently seen in Sphere Origin’s ‘Balika Vadhu’ is not too happy these days. Well the reason is that the cast of the show is a bit biased towards him.
As per our sources, “The actor is very hardworking and a thorough gentleman. But these days he is a little upset with the kind of behavior that the team (co-actors) is showing towards him.”
“Especially the seasoned actors who are working in the show do not talk to him properly. They leave him aside in many of the conversation. In this the poor chap really feels left out,” adds the source.
Though, the actor is still quite satisfied with his role in the show. A person close to him on the condition of anonymity stated, “Vikrant has told me that he is here to do some serious work and till the time production house and his audience is happy, he is satisfied with his stint and other things doesn’t matter to him at all.”
We tried contacting Vikrant but he was not available for comments.
-Rachana Trivedi/ Sampurn Media

Ref:http://www.realbollywood.com/news/2009/07/vikrant-massey-alone.html

Ali merchant says NO to Balika Vadhu

July 18th, 2009
Ali-Sara the popular unmarried Jodi of television was suspected to be secretly married. Prying media has been constantly inquiring them on the status of their relationship.
Now, finally Ali clears the air. “No, we are both very much single and happy in our lives. She is only 19 and I am 24; we are not looking forward to have Balika Vadhu in our lives. We need another two to three years.” States Ali who is tired of answering to media on his imaginary secret marriage.
The lovely young couple is not yet prepared to tie-a-knot and is busy shaping their respective careers with immense togetherness. Ali has just bought a car chosen by his lady-love Sara.
Sara chose a black Fiat Linea worth Rs. 7.6 lakh, and Ali went with her choice. “Her choice is always right,” croons the love-struck lad.
Jodi appeared together in ‘Hans Baliye’, a show for only real life couples. Hmm…well guess these days live-ins also count, oops there we go on another conspiracy theory…
- Deepa Mishra/ Sampurn Media
Ref:http://www.realbollywood.com/news/2009/07/ali-merchant-no-balika-vadhu.html

Music launch of “Tere Sang”

July 16th, 2009
Recently, Capital Delhi witnessed the music launch of film “Tere Sang-A Kidult Love Story”. And on this occasion, Sudhanshu Mittal insisted to throw a party. The party came to life with the songs of “Tere Sang”. The guest present at the event loved the songs and specially appreciated songs like “More Saiyyan” and “Maula” composed by Sachin and voiced by Jigar.
The party rocked with the presence of entire star-cast of the film including actor Ruslaan Mumtaz and Sheena. Director Satish Kaushik also marked his presence. Pan Music’s Dhaval Gada and Rajeev Sugani were also seen enjoying the evening. Apart from them, the other dignitaries present at the part were politician Rajiv Pratap Rudy along with his wife, Rajiv Shukla, Sunil Mittal-Vice chairman of Bar Association of Delhi, Anuradha Prasad, Kirti Azad, Rahul Mitra, singer Captain Ladi, Sudhanshu Mittal, Ukraine’s model Olga and Himanshu.
When conversed with the male lead actor of the film Ruslaan, he said that he shed lots of weight for the film as it was the requirement and when asked that did he face any difficulties while shooting for the film he added, “I faced no troubles and challenges as we organized a workshop before the starting of the film.”
Sheena said, “Initially it was difficult for me to do full justice to the role as it was challenging one. But, Director Satish Kaushik made it so simpler for me to play the character.”
Music of the film is released by Pen Music. Rajiv Sughani of Pan Music said, “I have joined Pen Music after working for Tips Music for 21 years.”
The film is under the banner of Karol Bagh films and is produced by Bharat Shah and co-produced by Satish Kaushik, Anupam Kher. Satish Kaushik as also directed the film. The lyrics are the combined effort of Pritam and Virag Mishra and the music is composed by Sachin and Jigar who has been in association with Pritam. Apart from them, Anu Malik and Bappi Lehari have also composed the music. The songs are voiced by Shaan, Anmol Malik, Master Salem, Raja Hasaan and Sumedha. The other star-cast also includes Anupam Kher, Neena Gupta, Rajat Kapoor and Sushmita Mukerjee. - Sampurn Media
Ref:http://www.realbollywood.com/news/2009/07/tere-sand-music.html

Wassup with Tushar-Prachi on Star Vivaah

July 18th, 2009
Wassup with Tusshar-Prachi on Star Vivaah We are taking about Tusshar Kapoor and Prachi Desai who will be soon seen together in the movie called Life Partner. The actors play husband-wife in the film and thus are on the sets of Star Vivaah to promote their upcoming project Life Partner.
According to our sources, “Tusshar and Prachi promoted their film on the show, alongside they gave tips on how to choose a right life partner for oneself.”
Elaborating on tips given by Prachi, our little birdie parrots, “Girls should know about guys like their family earnings, surroundings etc. Similarly a guy has to know, what she thinks about marriage and what kind of life partner is she looking for.”
Tusshar has his own set of thoughts on this. “Whatever it is; love or arrange marriage, the relation should be very unconditional. One should know where to withdraw and where one should not.”
Hmm… Shaadi tips for the singles by the singles, interesting
- Rachana Trivedi/ Sampurn Media
Ref:http://www.realbollywood.com/news/2009/07/tushar-prachi-star-vivaah.html

Now it’s Rajeev Khandelwal’s turn to tell the truth

He is grilling people on their best kept secrets and luring them with big money to ditch their families, friends and relatives and tell the truth. But now it’s his turn to face the truth, know Rajeev Khandelwal as he confess coming back to television was never on his cards
Why television, when you are now doing Bollywood films?
Actually, I was not ready to host Sach Ka Saamna, for that matter any show. But Babu (Siddharth Basu) insisted me to go and watch the series Moment Of the Truth, and I was instantly hooked. I found it to be really interesting. It’s challenging and exciting; when I go ahead in life and look back, I should feel happy that I didn’t do just run-of-the-mill stuff but also got personal satisfaction.
But didn’t you felt that television might overexpose you?
Yes, initially there were some reservations, as I am doing UTV’s Peter Gaya Kaam Se… the producers did not want my long hair look to be revealed. But after they saw the TV show Moment Of the Truth they agreed and gave me the green signal for the serial. My look is much wilder in the film.
On your show Sach Ka Saamna; it asks very personal questions, are you comfortable with that?
If I am uncomfortable I tell the contestants- the question I will ask makes me feel tight, so you can work out how uncomfortable it will be for you to answer. See, I have not really worked out any character as the host; I just deal with them on human level. It’s not easy to get up and speak the truth, so there is a certain way when I ask those questions; it’s more like a game. The gaming element comes in.
But don’t you think those questions can break real families?
Or it can bring the family close. Why do we all have this negative attitude towards truth? It’s so ironical; we all like to say- let’s speak the truth, but then a show like this happens and it’s said we are breaking families! Should a family survive on lies, for how long will they endure? There are two ways of looking at it. Certain truths if kept inside could be fatal. I say truth is better.
Rajeev, in the promo of the show we saw a family leaving. Don’t you think it’s regressive?
I don’t think so. It’s a part of the bigger picture which will be clear in that episode. You will know why they left and after knowing the truth. This is Agnipariksha. We are not making fun of our contestants or selling someone’s secrets. I dislike regressive show, that’s why I left doing daily soaps.
Is Sach Ka Saamna same as Moment Of the Truth?
No, we adapted to Indian sensibilities and our own sanskriti. We still live in a conservative society; where things are not openly discussed. So, there is a lot of Rajeev the Indian who asks questions. When the person gets too emotional, I ask questions that are in lighter vein; this is where we have kept the Indian sensibility in mind and it may raise a lot of eyebrows.
Where is the drama then?
When the truth unveils there is lot of drama. See, drama is not in the contestant, or what I am doing there, it happens when you hear the question and relate yourself to it. Down the line drama is in the fact; will someone have the courage to answer.
Is that why you are hosting the show?
There is a big reason why I am hosting this show. When I heard the questions, I thought with every question you will relate yourself with it and to your own life.
- Rachana Trivedi/ Sampurn Media

‘3 Nights 4 days’ team parties all night

July 18th, 2009
In the recession season another producer dares to take plunge in the show-business. Sunil Pathare unveils the first look of his first film on his 38th birthday.
Mysteriously titled ‘3 Nights 4 days’ is directed by the Devang Dholakia. Cast of the youthful film includes Anuj Swahney, Farid Amiri, Madhuri Bhattacharya, Samir Aftab, Pinky Harwani, Areesz Gandh, exotic beauty Sanda Caktas and the only-known-face Hrishita Bhatt.
“I have heard not less than fifty scripts before zeroing on this youth centric concept. Story revolves around five friends who haven’t seen each other from long time and get together in one of the friends marriage. Wedding ceremony is being arranged for ‘3 Nights’ and ‘4 days’ and all that happens during this period is the film all about,” briefs the producer. “Film is about love and friendship. It also gives a picture of the changing equations between friends over the time,” shares Sanda.
Youthful cast of the film seemed very excited on the inauguration eve. Maxwell’s discovery Sanda gave every Indian beauty run for their money in her snow-white dress. Cutest hunk Samir Aftab looked dashing in his casuals. Madhuri Bhattacharya carried the broadest smile all through the party in her golden-glossy dress. Producer in his off-white suit was so putting off but director Devang Dholakia did the balancing act and graced the party in his black leather suit. Music composer Daboo Malik and choreographer Longinus Fernandes were also rejoicing the bash.
Fast forward girl Bhavana Pani, don the simple black and Jimmy Shergill preferred simplicity to party this eve. Wannabe stars kept walking in the merrymaking ceremony, flaunting the best of their looks. Rachana Shah, Siddharth Koirala, Hiten Paintal and Rituparna Sengupta showed up brilliantly in the new producer’s party.
- Deepa Mishra/ Sampurn Media
Ref:http://www.realbollywood.com/news/2009/07/3-nights-4-days-party.html

Kashmira Shah plays Kareena

July 18th, 2009
Kashmira Shah better known as reality TV star in India will now con people abroad. She’s recently done an American film called ‘Chasing Happiness’ where she’s playing a con woman.
“Story revolves around four people who live in America and become friends under some circumstances. I am playing the lead character ‘Kareena’ who is an Indian and is struggling to make her mark in the American film industry,” briefs the lady. “I am playing a con woman whose sole objective is to pull out money from unsuspecting people who blindly trust me. I have camouflaged thrice in the film to pull the wool over their eyes,” she shares.
It is quite ironical that Indian directors will add stars to their films casting blonde-beauties and do not appreciate native talent. Never mind, she is chasing her happiness in America! – Deepa Mishra/ Sampurn Media
Ref:http://www.realbollywood.com/news/2009/07/kashmira-shah-plays-kareena.html

Shahid Kapoor to receive the Rajiv Gandhi award

July 18th, 2009
Shahid Kapoor to receive the Rajiv Gandhi award
July 18th, 2009
The 12th Rajiv Gandhi Awards in the Best Actor Category for Bollywood is going to be presented to Shahid Kapoor. This award is given every year to a person who shows eminence in his chosen field.
“I was pleasantly surprised to get the news about my being chosen for the prestigious Rajiv Gandhi award. I’m only 28 years old and it’s really early in my career. I feel humbled and honored to be chosen by the jury.” Said Shahid.
The earlier recipients for this award have been Sunita Williams, Sachin Tendulkar, Mukesh Ambani and Amitabh Bachchan among others. The award function will be held in the second week of august, just around the release of Shahid’s most anticipated film till date – Kaminey. – Sampurn Media
Ref:http://www.realbollywood.com/news/2009/07/shahid-kapoor-rajiv-gandhi-award.html

US auto firm launches Bollywood casting call

By Bollywood Hungama News Network, July 17, 2009 - 14:15 IST
In testimony to Bollywood's growing influence world over, a US-based auto insurance company Esurance has announced the launch of its Bollywood Casting Call, in partnership with IFC and Saavn, a digital distributor of Bollywood entertainment.
Visitors to the Esurance website will have the chance to enter the Bollywood Casting Call Contest. Participants will have to submit videos of re-enactments of their favorite Bollywood movie scenes. The person who enters the winning submission will be animated into an Esurance Bollywood-style music video featuring the company's animated icon Erin Esurance. Bollywood fans can submit their videos for the Esurance Bollywood Casting Call until noon Pacific Time on July 31, 2009.
The winning entrant will star in an Esurance Bollywood music video that will premiere in September during "Wake Up To Bollywood," a special presentation of Bollywood films airing each Sunday on IFC.

Ref:http://www.indango.com/news/us-auto-firm-launches-bollywood-casting-call

I'm not responsible for Adhyanan-Kangna breakup

By Subhash K Jha
Why was Anjana Sukhani’s role increased in Jashan ?
According to the buzz Anjana was initially the ‘looker’ while Shahana Goswami was designated the ‘performer’ in Jashan, quite like John Abraham and Abhishek Bachchan in Dostana.
Then somewhere along the way the tables turned. The looker’s role was suddenly expanded.
Could Anjana’s warm friendship with Adhyayan have a hand in this?
The girl shrugs off the insinuation. “Why only Adhyayan? Shahana and I are also buddies. All three of us have bonded beyond petty rivalry.”
Anjana admits her role has been increased drastically. “To begin with I was only supposed to play Adhyayan’s love interest while Shahana playing his sister had all the meaty scenes.
Then Mahesh Bhatt Saab saw a portion of what I had done and decided to increase my role. He called me aside and said, ‘Anjana we thought we’d use you only for the romance. But there’s so much more that you seem to be conveying.’ He told me they had changed their mind about my role.”
Anjana’s role was re-written by Mahesh Bhatt. “Now my character is much more contoured and substantial.Earlier I was just this girl cheering and encouraging Adhyayan. Now I’m his character’s backbone and support system.”
Wonder where that leaves Shahana ‘the performer.’
Anjana says her co-star is very happy for her. “All three of us are supporting one another’s dreams. We’d rather rock together than rock the boat. Strangely both Shahana and I are being linked with Adhyayan. I’m also supposed to be responsible for Adhyanan’s breakup with Kangna. Have a heart! I’m here to act, not break relationships.”
Anjana is also appalled by hushed whispers about her other co-star Rehaan Khan in Kabir Sadanand’s Tum Miloh To Sahi. “At this rate no man would want to come close to me thinking I’m already in another relationship.”
Ref:http://www.santabanta.com/cinema.asp?pid=29690

I'm keen to work with Kareena, not Ash: Imran

He is the latest heartthrob in tinsel town and there are many actresses who would love to be paired opposite him. But the two-film-old Imran Khan would rather share screen space with Kareena Kapoor than Aishwarya Rai.
"No, " said Imran when asked whether he is keen to work with former beauty queen-turned-actress Aishwarya. "I'm most keen to work with Kareena. Both of us shot for a chat show last week and I had great fun, " Imran told reporters here Thursday.
Dressed in a casual blue T-shirt and a tattered and torn pair of blue jeans, Imran was at his wittiest and generous best at an event to celebrate the success of FM Radio Mirchi's show "18 Hamesha" along with RJ Stutee.
Imran, who also came here to promote his upcoming film "Luck", not only hugged young girls but also 50 plus women when they screamed out his name in excitement and cheered every time he flashed a smile for the shutterbugs.
He even sang few lines of the hit song "Kabhi kabhi Aditi..." from his debut film "Jaane Tu... Ya Jaane Na" and did a jig on the song "Pappu can't dance..." from the same movie on a special request by his young female fans. He also sang the original song "Jaane tu ya jaane na".
Though Imran looked little embarrassed due to all the attention he was getting, he loved every bit of his interaction with the fans.
"I always love meeting my audiences and fans face-to-face and I love interacting with them at live events such as these. I feel I make fans for life, " Imran told.
"Luck", which releases July 24, also stars Imran's childhood friend Shruthi Haasan who is debuting with the film. Apart from them, the action thriller, directed by Soham Shah of "Kaal" fame, has Sanjay Dutt, Mithun Chakraborty and Ravi Kissen.
Ref:http://www.santabanta.com/cinema.asp?pid=29691

Can Terminator find salvation as a reboot?

Sunday, 31 May 2009
He said he'd be back, and Arnold Schwarzenegger's Terminator has returned again and again since it first took a near-indestructible grip on the box office in 1984. This week he's back again – albeit in a brief, computer-generated cameo – when the fourth film in the 25-year-old franchise is released in the UK. It has a new leading actor, a new director and a twist in the story's timeline.
In keeping with a growing trend to reinvigorate money-spinning film franchises, The Terminator has joined the reboots. Last month's Star Trek rebooted back to the beginning of the saga of Kirk, Spock and the crew of the Starship Enterprise, capturing a new, young audience and taking $287m (£178m) so far.
April saw the first of a slew of X-Men prequels with X-Men Origins: Wolverine, explaining how the hirsute mutant played by Hugh Jackman came to have a set of razor-sharp blades embedded in his arms.
The three Star Wars prequels may have disappointed fans of one of the most successful sci-fi sagas of all time, but they still took almost $2.5bn at the global box office.
Batman Begins successfully rebooted the Batman series in 2005 when director Christopher Nolan and star Christian Bale threw off the slightly camp approach of previous films and gave the caped crusader a darker edge. It not only raked in $372m but injected new life into the franchise, a trick they sustained with last year's Dark Knight, starring Heath Ledger.
The three Terminator films have so far pulled in more than $1bn at the box office. If Terminator Salvation is as successful as last month's Star Trek, that figure could rise substantially.
Like Star Trek, the action of Terminator Salvation ends where the first episode begins – so fleshing out a back story already familiar to ticket-buying fans. Set in 2018, its hero, John Connor, is fighting an army of relentless robot assassins intent on destroying mankind.
Professor Scott Lucas, who lectures in film at the University of Birmingham, pointed out that such prequels are not necessarily a guarantee of success. "The prequel to Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid failed miserably," he said. "When a prequel is done well, however, it is normally through character development. The original Star Trek characters were almost caricatures. The new film works on nostalgia, because we know the characters. And because it's science fiction, you have hundredsd of years to play with. These films also resonate with American audiences because they deal with apocalyptic themes. The first Terminator movie was made during the Cold War, when we were all worried we might get knocked off."
The veteran film critic Barry Norman said the reboots are valid because audiences want them. "Hollywood likes to give the public what they think the public wants," he said. "Also, the original protagonist [of Terminator] is now Governor of California and not able to play the part, so it makes more sense to go back to the beginning and find someone new."
Ref:http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/news/can-terminator-find-salvation-as-a-reboot-1693508.html

Emmy nominations announced

New blood broke into key nominations for the 61st annual Emmy Awards, with two youth-oriented series — the animated "Family Guy" and HBO’s musical "Flight of the Conchords" — among the seven candidates for outstanding comedy series, while defending champ "30 Rock" garnered 22 bids, a record-setting tally for a laffer.
A rules change expanded the number of designated comedy and drama nominees (along with the nominees in key acting categories) from five to six for the 2008-09 eligibility window, intensifying the jockeying for those final slots. But ties in the voting actually yielded seven contenders in both series fields.
As with the Academy Awards’ more dramatic shift to 10 best-picture contenders, part of the rationale for the procedural tinkering is to allow a few more commercially successful series to break through — thus boosting interest in (and ratings for) the kudocast. By that measure, the results appear to be a mixed bag.
Fox’s "House" and ABC’s "Lost" were the lone broadcast entries for best drama, joined by AMC’s "Breaking Bad" and last year’s winner, "Mad Men" — the most-nominated drama, with 16 — as well as HBO’s first-timer "Big Love" (whose lone nomination came in that category), FX’s "Damages" and Showtime’s "Dexter."
Even with the extra bids, this year’s drama balloting was perceived to be especially fierce, thanks in part to the number of long-running series — including "ER," "The Shield" and "Battlestar Galactica," all ultimately overlooked — in their swan-song seasons, which some critics felt merited consideration.
The real surprises, however, largely came on the comedy front, especially given that the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences — which presents the awards — has historically been slow to recognize new programs as well as those that appeal to younger audiences.
Fox made a concerted push for "Family Guy," producer Seth MacFarlane’s ribald comedy, which, along with "Conchords," joins such familiar players as "Entourage," "The Office" and "30 Rock." Two other veteran programs, CBS’ "How I Met Your Mother" and Showtime’s "Weeds," were also first-time nominees for comedy.
"Damages" and "Mad Men" became the first basic-cable programs to earn drama or comedyscripted series nominations in 2008, and "Breaking Bad" — whose star, Bryan Cranston, was honored last year — becomes the third.
The new faces remained somewhat limited in terms of acting honors. "Mad Men’s" Elisabeth Moss was the only new lead drama actress, for example; the category features the last three winners — in sequence, Mariska Hargitay, Sally Field and Glenn Close, along with repeat TNT nominees Holly Hunter and Kyra Sedgwick.
On the drama side, Simon Baker, star of CBS’ breakout hit "The Mentalist," was the only first-time nominee joins Gabriel Byrne, Michael C. Hall, Jon Hamm and Hugh Laurie — all multiple nominees who have never won — and Cranston.
In comedy, "The Big Bang Theory’s" Jim Parsons and half of the "Conchords’" duo, Jemaine Clement, crash the partyattended by 2008 Emmy recipient Alec Baldwin, multiple nominees Steve Carell and Charlie Sheen and three-time winner Tony Shalhoub. Similarly, along with "United States of Tara’s" Toni Collette and Sarah Silverman — for her eponymous Comedy Central program— will vie with Christina Applegate, Mary-Louise Parker and Emmy faves Tina Fey and Julia Louis-Dreyfus.
As for producer Chuck Lorre’s two high-rated multicamera CBS sitcoms, "Two and a Half Men" and "The Big Bang Theory," the news was bittersweet: While "Big Bang’s" Parsons and "Men’s" Sheen and Jon Cryer were recognized, neither program made the comedy category cut.
Despite growing competition from other cable nets, HBO remains the most-nominated channel overall for the ninth consecutive year. Its 99 noms mark the highest total for the cable network since 2004. (The channel amassed more than 100 nominations that year as well as in 2003.)
That said, Showtime upped its haul to a network-best 29 bids, as did AMC at 23. Despite its ratings woes, NBC — led by "30 Rock," which nearly cornered the market on writing and guest acting — was the most-nominated broadcaster for the first time in five years, with 67, while ABC slipped to its lowest total since 2005.
HBO has received the most prizes every year since 2001, including a pair of ties with NBC when the streak began. The pay cabler’s diversified assault has been predicated in part on utter dominance of the TV movie category, winning that honor 14 of the last 16 years. HBO received three of this year’s five movie bids — for "Grey Gardens," "Into the Storm" and "Taking Chance" — joined by Lifetime’s "Prayers for Bobby" and "Coco Chanel."
By contrast, the major broadcast networks accounted for just 10 of the 28 awards claimed during last year’s primary ceremony, with HBO alone — fueled by the miniseries "John Adams" — equaling their total.
After "Adams" dazzled with 13 Emmys, the miniseries has fallen on especially hard times. Only two received nominations — HBO’s Iraq drama "Generation Kill" and PBS’ eight-hour "Little Dorrit" — because a mere seven were submitted. That triggered the TV Academy’s "one-third rule," which states that the number of nominees will not exceed one third of the entries.
Meanwhile, the two longest streaks in Emmy history may well continue, with reality competition "The Amazing Race" and comedy-variety’s "The Daily Show" each having topped their fields for six straight years. Notably, the final year of "The Tonight Show With Jay Leno" didn’t crack the latter category.
With the nominations now official, the TV Academy and this year’s host network, CBS, will huddle on the thorny task of determining which awards can be removed from the main event, with the board having established a goal of reducing the number of awards presented live from 28 to 21.
Although movie awards are believed to be in play to be relocated, there are several marquee faces to be found among those performers.
The playbill includes the U.K. triumvirate of Kenneth Branagh, Brendan Gleeson and Ian McKellen; first-time Emmy nominees Kevin Bacon and Kevin Kline; and Kiefer Sutherland (for the movie "24: Redemption"). Lead actress features the "Grey Gardens" tandem of Drew Barrymore and Jessica Lange plus Sigourney Weaver and Chandra Wilson (also up for "Grey’s Anatomy"). Shirley MacLaine — who won an Emmy in 1976 — is also up for what amounted to an extended cameo in "Coco Chanel."
Emmys will be handed out on Sept. 12 — the Creative Arts Awards, a night devoted primarily to technical areas — and Sept. 20, with the E! channel televising the earlier event.
The Primetime Emmys will be handed out Sept. 20 and broadcast by CBS. The Creative Arts Emmys —devoted primarily to technical areas — will be handed out Sept. 12 and carried a week later on E!.
After poor reviews for last year’s show, the TV Academy tapped Don Mischer — who has overseen nine Emmy broadcasts, the last in 2004 — to again produce the show.