Lata Mangeshkar finally gets a voter identity Card
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Absence of details and photo of melody queen Lata Mangeshkar has not stopped the Election Commission from making a voter identity card for her.
"We had approached Lataji for the card earlier but she had not submitted the details or the photograph, failing which the photo I-card was not made," District Deputy Election Officer Sanjay Bhagwat told reporters.
But determined that the card be made, the officials downloaded her photograph from the Internet and made the document.
"We delivered the card at her residence yesterday. In absence of her responding to our pleas for submitting a photograph, we downloaded it from the net and prepared the card," he said.
"The person who delivered the card at the Mangeshkar's Peddar Road residence was given photo and details of her brother and noted music composer Pandit Hridaynath Mangeshkar and his musician son Adinath," Bhagwat said.
"We now want to demonstrate just how easy it is to get a card online," he said.
Kareena is more than a wife: Saif Ali Khan
Saif Ali Khan walks in 10 minutes late. He's looking fresh and surprisingly fit. He gives me a typical filmy hug and announces, "I haven't had a bath yet." I tell him that information would've been appreciated a few seconds earlier. Even though he is in his gym clothes, he's not carrying his workout on him.
Must be the blue blood. He settles down on the other end of the couch and dons his serious glasses, "This is the Bengali in me finally coming out. Very Basu Bhattacharya." Point noted and it's time for some serious business. He orders coffee and me conversation. And then, we talk about his love, aaj and kal. Excerpts....
The last time you did a light romantic film (Hum Tum), you won a National Award. What are you expecting with Love Aaj Kal (LAK)?
I am not in the least interested in awards. It is a kind of celebration that comes much later. I am hoping for a decent opening and a successful run. That's it.
That's it?
I am hoping and expecting that people will like the movie and enough of them will watch it so that the people who have invested in us are not disappointed. I think it is a good movie and it has a good story. I think stories are really important parts of our lives, whether it is reading or watching them or listening to them from an old tailor in Bhopal, sitting at the foot of my bed, when I was a baby. My parents would be on the balcony, talking with adults and this old man would tell me tales of shikar and tigers and how it attacked somebody….
A man with stories! Can I steal him?
Yeah, no! He was about 90 then yaar...
Drat! Okay, hoping LAK does well for you as a producer, or as an actor?
Both. I think it's more important that it does well. I am playing a Sikh character, and also a contemporary character called Jai, which people may or may not connect to, because of his thinking. There was a little bit of that in Salaam Namaste, where he didn't want to get married just because she was pregnant, which people did not like as it isn't the most heroic thing to do. Similarly, Jai doesn't know that he loves this girl, and he certainly doesn't believe in marriage and wants to be practical. But the story is how he changes from that into something else.
Sounds like you.
Err, maybe. Maybe, I suppose. But actually, not really. Jai seems quite clear that he doesn't want to commit to anyone. Maybe I am just making him sound like me. But he's not really so.
Most actors and filmmakers take trips to Shirdi, Vaishnodevi or Tirupati before their release. Have you done any of that?
(Sounds amused) No. but I believe Dino (co-producer Dinesh Vijan) went to Siddhi Vinayak with the print. I definitely believe in God. And I believe in luck. And I understand why people would want to cover all the bases. There is a big question mark as to what would work, so people try anything. I mean ultimately, when there is turbulence on the plane, and my gut clenches, I do start saying the Ayatul Kursi. Let's not laugh at people who do these things but I would like to have the strength to say that mandir and prayer aside, there's a whole lot of other stuff that is in the gray area.
Like numerology? Did you check if you title was 'balanced' for success?
No. I don't believe that much in astrology and numerology even though I think it could be fun sometimes. I find some of these numerologically sound titles attractive. Like Himesh Reshammiya's film, what was the name..?
Karzzzz?
(Grins) No, that was a bad marketing idea. Especially if the film is even slightly boring. Arre, it was his only film that ran. It was called Aap Kaa Surror The Real Love Story and it was spelled with two A's and Kambakkht Ishq had two K's and Singh Is Kinng had two N's. So it is kind of hip. It has an edge to it. But when people do it to their names that is not cool.
For a brief while, Kareena was Kariena...
Oh no! Really? I am happy she has changed it back.
So you will never be Saaif, with an extra A?
No chance. But for my films, maybe I would try it. Maybe Love Aaj Kal would have looked better as Love Aaj Kall. Maybe it would be funky.
Deepika is the youngest actress you've worked with and Kareena is the youngest girl you've been involved with. That's new!
Yes, it is new. Definitely.
And?
(Smirks) And it makes you health conscious. Like on hand, I will say, "I think I should be much fitter and healthier." And on the other, I am really happy being 38.
When you are with these 20-plus women, do you feel older, wiser and smarter or there is some connect?
Oh, I connect with them completely. Why it works is because I am quite juvenile and they are quite mature. (Laughs) So it balances out just fine. But seriously, I do feel very happy for the people I have met, the things I have seen, and experienced. I really think I have matured. I have had a really interesting history, even though I say it myself. So if you ask me, being with Kareena or working with someone younger than me, it is a non-issue for me. I really like being me. And I am very confident in that. I am so lucky that I am doing okay in movies also. Because it is another world.
You've never promoted a film like this before. Do you find it cumbersome?
(Sighs) Incredibly exhausting. If I see another camera.... (rolls his eyes).
...or a journalist?
No, I think there is a charm to the written word. We learnt early in our careers to speak carefully because the printed word reads differently because it doesn't like a tone. It can be cold. So you must word yourself intelligently.
Like a text message.
But a personality can be sensed through an sms. I personally don't like those short forms. I can't say 'pls'; I will type 'please' (dramatically). And I can't bear 'da' for 'the'.
Ok, coming back to promotions....
We sat here as a production house and said, 'Let us make people aware of this film.' Promotion is such an important part of the film for the producer. Otherwise as an actor, you do the film and then you call the producer and interfere, 'Where is the hoarding?', 'Where is the poster?'. Now I know that there are 450 million mobile users and 50 million internet users in India and I want to reach everyone. So you get involved in the whole process. It's better than worrying about what another actor is doing. I see the poster of Kites and think it is phenomenal. I feel, "Wow, Hrithik Roshan is fit, and a good-looking guy. Like an angel sometimes." It's not competitive. I am like – let me work harder; let me learn from other people. I put all my energies into producing this movie rather than worrying about what other people are doing.
But you've never really worried about competition.
True. Earlier I wasn't even worried about myself that much as well.
That's the lazy Leo in you.
Possibly. And it's also a bit like my father. At some level I don't want to lose that. When you are successful, then suddenly people start waking up to you. That's the scary part. I like to put my feet up on ottomans, in Jaipur razais and watch TV and just cut off from everything in the afternoon. But when you are super-successful, then suddenly everyone wants a piece of you. And then they get offended when some top notches of Mumbai society or politician wants to meet you… The challenge is to be successful and yet maintain a balance without offending anybody but keeping your equilibrium.
You've not shown the film to your colleagues as well as the media. Why?
I have known you for so long; I can easily call you and say I am having a trial, watch it and tell me what you think. But you are going to sense that my intention is to seduce you somehow into liking it. At the same time, when I have a press show, as a producer, I will invite people and come say a few words and then bugger off. I am not going to hang around till the end and ask people, "Kaise laga, kaise laga." Because I will be too tense anyway. Even if my friend goes to see the film, forget the press or the industry, somewhere his opinion will start mattering. And I don't want it to matter.
Won't your colleagues be upset that you didn't show them the film?
If you don't show the film to anyone, then there is no stress. And it is important to be consistent in life. I have never had a trial. I have never called another actor or filmmaker and said, "I want to see your movie, organise a trial, yaar." Because I think it is more fun to buy my popcorn and go to the theatre and watch the film. The bottom line of the psychology of the whole thing is: If you pay money to buy a ticket, and make a plan to go see it with your family, friends or girlfriend, it is a different psychology than to be invited by me. I am not interested in THAT audiences' opinion. Someone will be too tense to laugh and the actors would be like, "I would've done this scene better." The producers will say, "Arre, how much money have these guys spent?" The heroines will be, "This girl is rubbish; I am better than her." So you know there is no barometer.
How do you react when people feel that you are still not established as a solo hero?
I don't think that's true. Who can say that now? You are digging out a question from 1992.
No, that is the perception.
What crap! That perception went out with Hum Tum, which was a solo hero film. Then Parineeta was a solo hero.
But you still did Race, with Anil and Akshaye.
Yeah, but if Race had been a flop, it would've been only my flop. Let's get that clear. There are certainly performances that have contributed to the film but I had the most to lose.
Yeah, and even though Race did good business, it was never counted among the big hits. Why?
Dude, I don't know about that, but as far as the distributors go, they were very happy. It was a 1200 print opening. They opened that film much wider than any other movie of mine.
Also, you didn't get due credit for its success.
I got the due credit from Ramesh Taurani, who will be happy to pay me for Race 2 and that is the kind of due I am interested in. And the fact is that the audiences have seen the film, and loved it. About the internal politics, I am not really concerned as long as it doesn't affect my job.
Looking back, do you feel it was a wrong decision to do so many two-hero projects?
No. I have also chosen what I thought were the best roles.
But you've even played second fiddle to Madhavan in Rehna Hain Terre Dil Mein.
Yeah but that was not a particularly great time for me. Like any actor, I've always chosen the best from what I was offered that year. Some years have not been very interesting, while some have been great. Your aspirations change according to your success ratio. In the beginning, you are just happy to be working. That you have a job, and you have been accepted. Your standards are pretty low. And pretty soon, after a while, you want to be the best there is. The best there has ever been (laughs); you know there is no end to that kind of ego shit.
You recently said you and Kareena didn't plan to stay engaged forever. Does that mean you're already engaged?
No. I mean I feel like I am engaged. But I don't believe in engagements as such; they are a bit old-fashioned.
Your mom said in a recent interview that you both have the family's blessings.
I am sure mom wants me to settle down. Parents like to tie up everything and they think it's done. But it is not done even if you are married. Today, marriage is another form of engagement. It is a legal commitment that it is quite easy to get out of. It's not like: It's all over and now we can all go to sleep. And anyway it is very important in a girl's career for her to focus on that. And marriage — let's be honest — alters your image, your marketability and people lose interest in you. I'd much rather people kept asking, "When are you getting married?" The minute you are married, you are yesterday's news. And I am not in any rush to get married. Because I am loving this.
Is it tough to manage being together with your tough schedules?
We are balancing our lives beautifully. We are working hard and Kareena is more than a wife, because she loves me. There are so many wives who don't love their husbands because they are pakaoed after 10 years of being together. Bebo gives me all the time in the world. And when I get done with these two days and the film releases, I will give time. We manage. People laugh at us saying, "Oh you are turning up on the set; she is coming here" but that's how we manage.
Oh, you are aware of people laughing?
Yeah, of course, but what to do? Initially when the relationship is starting, you want to make each other secure, and you want to tell the world that we are serious about each other. We are not a fly-by-night kind of a thing. So we make commitments on paper, and we say things but before you know it, it gets blown out of proportion.
What if Bebo says she wants marriage?
For an actor and for a working person, it must come at the right time. You must do it when you want to do it, or when you want to have children. We've waited for a reason. It is not the 1920s when it was like now we can live together or now we can spend time legally. We can do all that now, without that. People must understand her priorities. She is a film child. She has grown up watching films. She has always wanted this and she has finally achieved it. And I absolutely forbid her to even want to. Tomorrow if she says, "Let's get married", I will tell her, "I think you should work for a few years."
She has been flaunting her ring for a long time.
She can flaunt many rings. I will give her lots of them. Even I wear rings.
What's going on between you and Shahid? He was quoted saying that you and Bebo were using his name to get publicity.
I am really glad you asked me this because enough has been said now. Shahid seems like a really well brought-up guy and I mean no offence to him. And let's stop it now. We are both gentlemen and whenever we have met, we've shook hands, and that's it. So I will not listen to anything anybody says. And it sounds so fake to say I sincerely wish him all the best but I want him to know that I have only heard good things about him. And that too from his ex-girlfriend, which leaves me with a sense of respect for the past and God bless him. He seems like a strong man, and a good kid. That's it.
There were reports that you were offered Kaminey?
I would like to clear once and for all that Vishal Bhardwaj did not offer me Kaminey. We talked about a film about twins. That film might not even have been Kaminey. I hope it is a good film. But right now, I am more interested in my film running. And I am not interested in other people's downfall because it doesn't help me in anyway. When Sanjay Dutt went to jail, it didn't benefit anybody. It just hurt him. So tomorrow, if something happens to an actor, it does not increase your saleability.
All actors say they don't watch other actors' films. What about you?
I genuinely don't watch many Hindi films. But when I do, l like to see what other people are doing and how they perform. Maybe not at a competitive level. Maybe I will learn from them.
Ever considered direction?
Not really. Not at the moment. It is a completely different kind of a ball-game. It is a huge commitment. I like to cut off and stop for a while. But a director is always thinking, writing, then making and then editing – it's never ending. I think it is a single man's job. I don't know how they manage to be in relationships. Is that wrong to say? I think it's like being a cop; then the girl really needs to understand.
Many would say that about an actor's job too.
No, an actor can make time and say, "Ab pack up ho gaya and I can go home."
Kareena Kapoor returns Rs. 1 million to Producer
Just few days back there were reports about Indian Motion Pictures Producers Association aka IMPPA receiving a complaint from M/s PJ Sughand Production Pvt Ltd against Kareena Kapoor. Sughand Production had claimed Kareena had taken Rs. 10 lakhs as a signing amount for their film and had refused to return back the sum after she refused to commit dates for their project. But now it is learnt that Kareena Kapoor has refunded the amount.
The production company was reportedly facing some serious financial trouble after the death of Jhamu Sughandh who had financed films like Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam and Aks among others and was in desperate need of the refund from Kareena. The Kambakkht Ishq actress has settled the amount back in quick time. In fact so happy are IMPPA with her prompt steps that they even sent her a thanking letter for settling the claim in short span of time.
Born..24 December 1924
Raavan Film shoot disrupted by Wild elephant to resume Friday
Ashiruvananthapuram, July 30 (IANS) The shooting of Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai starrer “Raavan”, disrupted when an elephant ran amok in the jungle where it is being shot, will resume Friday, cinematographer Santosh Sivan said here Thursday.
“We will resume shooting tomorrow (Friday),” Sivan told IANS.
The tusker, whose name is Kunju, killed 51-year-old mahout Andavan. After the incident, the road at nearby Athirapally forest was blocked and the cast and crew of Mani Ratnam’s film could not return to their hotel.
“We didn’t see much since we were shooting on the other side of the bridge… so we couldn’t cross over… we had to stop shooting, but I didn’t see anything except the confusion. We had to spend a few hours in a guest house in the forest,” said Sivan.
Neither the actors nor any crew member of the film was injured.
Later the elephant was chained and tranquilised by veterinary doctors.
Besides Abhishek and Aishwarya, “Raavan” also stars Vikram, Govinda and Manisha Koirala. It is being made in Hindi and Tamil simultaneously.
AdvertisementBig B remembers Gayatri Devi as picture of grace, Beauty
Bollywood
megastar Amitabh Bachchan remembers Gayatri Devi, the grand queen mother or the 'rajmata' of Jaipur, as a "picture of grace
Gayatri Devi
Gayatri Devi: A picture of grace and beauty. (TOI Photo)
and beauty" and a gracious host.
Amitabh recalls that while he was studying in Delhi University, he used to sneak into the Jaipur Polo Ground to watch polo matches where Gayatri Devi used to come as well.
"The maharaja of Jaipur (Sawai Man Singh), a great proponent of the game, would play there and accompanying him used to be his wife, the Rajmata Gayatri Devi. In her soft and pastel flowered chiffons, she used to be a picture of grace and beauty. I never imagined that one day I would get to meet this lady. But time and circumstances changed that," the actor posted on his blog www.bigb.bigadda.com.
Gayatri Devi died Wednesday at the Jaipur-based Santokba Durlabhji Memorial Hospital (SDMH) where she was admitted Tuesday for breathing problems. She was 90.
When Amitabh learnt of Gayatri Devi's ill health a few days ago, he sent her a bouquet of flowers and a get well card.
"Her son had acknowledged my letter and informed us that she was very pleased to have received my concern and wishes...May she rest in peace."
Amitabh had met her on many occasions.
"After joining the movies, there were many visits to Jaipur for shootings and that is when a formal introduction with the Rajmata took place. I was later asked by Gayatri Deviji to inaugurate one of the functions at the girls school (Maharani Gayatri Devi) that she started, now a flourishing institution.
"Some years ago she had invited me to be the chief guest at a charity she promoted for the underprivileged and cannot forget what a gracious host she was that evening. On another occasion she called me over for a private lunch at her Lily Pond residence, serving me personally with delicious vegetarian delicacies which she had so considerately asked her kitchen to prepare," he said.
However, the last time that the erstwhile maharani of Jaipur sought Amitabh's involvement, he couldn't make it. And that was the last communication he had with her.
I m Hundered Percent Indian...Katrina Kaif
Katrina Kaif feels that while Namaste London was a turning point in her Bollywood career, New York launched her as an actress in her own right. In this interview with The Indian Express Editor-in-Chief Shekhar Gupta on NDTV 24x7’s Walk the Talk, Katrina talks about her forthcoming film, Rajniti and why she considers India her home
My guest this week is Katrina Kaif, the most searched name on Google and a Bollywood Barbie.
Both the things you mentioned are two of the most special things forme. I’ll tell you why. I have six sisters. They live in London and are not so aware of the Hindi film industry. So when they heard about these two things — obviously every girl in the world knows what Barbie is and every teenager in the world knows what Google is — it meant a lot to them. And everybody wants to make their family proud.
So you get along with your sisters?
Oh yes. Sometimes I call them up and say, I’m doing a movie with Akshay Kumar or with Saif Ali Khan. The youngest one, Isabelle, is here, the rest of them don’t know much about our industry. So even though they are happy for me and support me, they don’t have that connect.
Where do you fit in that long order of siblings?
Exactly three before me and three after me. I am right in the middle.
So you have three big sisters and three sisters you can...
...Bully. In London, you don’t have maids or cooks. We have this big family house and there are five rooms. I don’t cook. So, when I go to London, I tell my younger sisters to cook for me.They are fabulous cooks.
That’s the Kashmiri in you...
Yes. Living in Bombay we have become dependent on other people to do our day-to-day work. We get out of the habit of cooking, making our own beds, cleaning utensils. Most foreigners, who come here, find it odd.
Do you consider yourself a foreigner or an Indian?
I am hundred per cent Indian. When I was growing up, I always felt a very strong awareness that I am an Asian. I don’t know whether that’s politically correct or not, but I always felt that I am different and growing up in a country that’s not Asian.
It’s almost an Asian country now.
Now it is. But that sense of belonging was always missing when I was growing up. When I came to India, I felt an instant sense of belonging. My uncle was here, I had a bit of family in Bangalore. My uncle was a civil engineer constructing water systems for the city. I came here with my older sister and she said, “Katrina, this is not for me and I love our house in London and want to go back.” I said I am going to stay here; this is where I want to be. Now, there is no other place that I would ever consider home.
When I came here, I had only Rs 4 lakhs. I told myself that if I can make it with this money, I will stay here. If not, I will go back to London and rejoin college. I was only 17 at that time and was modelling. I bought a small apartment near a cemetery. I fear living alone and fear darkness, so I would stay up all night and wait for the sun to come up and then go to bed at five o’clock in the morning and sleep for five hours.
I did my first photo shoot with a photographer called Farooq. I got very good feedback. I took my portfolio and went from one agency to another. I would go there and say, can I meet your casting director. I showed them my pictures. The casting agents started calling me.
Did you find India or did some Indian film person find you?
I found India.
So the stories of Kaizad Gustad discovering you...
I met Kaizad Gustad in London. He encouraged me. He said, “You must come to India.” At that time I was focussing on modelling. He gave me a lot of contacts, including that of Farooq.
Tell us who you are. Why is there so much mystery? I’ll not go by whatever I have read in film magazines. Tell us about yourself, pre-stardom.
I was born in Hong Kong. My mom was a Harvard graduate, a very successful lawyer who gave it up to join a charitable organisation.
She was working with the organisation as a non-profit lawyer and because of that, we travelled a lot. From Hong Kong, we went to Japan, China, France, Hawaii and then to London.
The Indian in you comes from your father.
Yes. My parents separated when we were very young. We were raised by my mother who did a wonderful job. She raised us with the belief and inspiration to find yourself in the world. Live your dreams and find what is going to make you live life freely.
She made us tough and she wasn’t the kind of mother who told us to go to college and get a degree and become a doctor or a lawyer. She herself had found her fulfillment in things that were off-beat. I have one brother. He is a professional skier and rock climber.
What about your father?
We have grown up without a father. I missed it a great deal. I do feel that sense of loss.
You haven’t been in touch with him?
No. When I see friends who have wonderful fathers who are like pillars of support for their families, I say, if only I had that. But instead of complaining, I should be grateful for all the other things I have.
He hasn’t tried to get in touch with you after you became a star.
No, he is not that kind of a man. He is very decent and comes from a good family and they went their own ways because of issues which are personal. He is an affluent person, so he is not going to come back because his daughter is now famous.
When did the big break come?
I don’t think I’ve had that big break. For me it was ‘Oh Katrina looks nice here’ or ‘That’s a nice ad’ or ‘That’s an okay song’ or ‘That’s a nice movie’. It was all gradual, step-by-step.
May be it happened a little bit with Singh Is Kinng?
Before that there was a film called Namastey London where, for the first time, I had a dominating role and Akshay Kumar allowed me to do that at a stage when not many people believed in me. He’s a huge star. He knew that a lot of the industry was not behind me and he still went ahead. That was a turning-point in my career in the film industry. The film’s script was fabulous and for the first time I got a good response from the industry. After Namastey London, there was Race, where people said, she does this kind of dancing well.Then there was Singh Is Kinng and now NewYork.
I keep hearing from Prakash Jha about the work you are doing in his film, Rajniti. It’s a serious role.
That film has a lot of potential and to me it looks like a great film. I can’t tell you how excited I am about that film.
He tells me that you look the part. He says you will bust the myth that you can’t speak in Hindi. He told me you recorded a speech on the phone.
He recorded the speech for me because he is not only a director and a very intelligent man but also a politician of sorts. He knows how to deliver a speech. The speech was recorded so that I could get the into nations right.
Do you think it is the film that will launch you as an actor in your own right?
I think with NewYork, I have got that to a large extent.
How did Salman Khan happen and when?
We met through his sister at a party. I have always said that I will never get into details about these personal things. You will waste a part of your life answering, denying or clarifying things that don’t matter or are just speculations. I am too much of a sensitive person to have this side of my life debated or to enter and participate in these kinds of debates. He has been a wonderful person for the last six years I have known him. He has got a great soul and he is very fearless. He is not afraid of anything and he is not an insecure person. A lot of people live their lives with so much insecurity - fear of rejection, of losing things. But he doesn’t fear. And he tries to teach me that.
He has made his own mistakes in life. In case of other people, he has a great quality of being able to negate all the bad things and flaws and see their potential. For me, he has been a great teacher and a great guide. He has seen me grow up in the last six years. For 18 to 24 is a journey, especially for a young girl. At times, he says you are changing. And I say, I am changing because I am growing. He says, “Be careful, don’t change into something that is not good.”
That’s not what a successful 24-year-old wants to be told.
Sometimes what you need to be told is not what you want to hear. It’s good to have people in your life who can be like sound boards.
Tell us about your Hindi issue. Have you had to take lessons?
I have had to take a lot of lessons. I still take lessons, especially for Rajniti. I am working on my diction. I read Hindi very well.
If you lost your way in Mumbai, will you be able to find your way back using Hindi?
Oh, yes! My Hindi is pretty good.
Do you watch cricket?
I am a brand ambassador for the Royal Challengers Bangalore.
Do you understand cricket like all Indians?
Yes, I play cricket. My batting is a little better than my bowling. I have to work on my bowling. The ball is just not going the right place.
I think there is nothing better than being an all-rounder. After being the Indian Barbie and the most searched name on Google, all you need is an ace to become an all-rounder.
And I have got an entire team to teach me. After we didn’t win the finals this year, our captain Anil Kumble was standing there as I was about to perform in the finale. I looked at him and said, congratulations. He looked so disheartened because it was so near yet so far. We could have won.
I think all they need now is for you to practise with your bowling so that you can join the team next year.
I can join the team. I keep saying that to Dr Vijay Mallya. I hope Vijay Mallya is not watching this, he might even do it. He is adventurous enough.
And for all you know he might have a winner on his hands. Katrina, keep winning all the time.
Thank you so much.
Ayesha Takia’s sister to Join Bollywood
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Bollywood actress Ayesha Takia’s sister is set to join Bollywood now. Ayesha is leading her married life and has no plan for a comeback.
Natasha Takia is waiting for the right script to come her way so that she can also make it big like her sister in Bollywood.
Sources close to Natasha says, “Natasha has lost a lot of weight and is keen to make it in B-Town. Her mom and sis have been telling her the hows and whys of the industry.”
Natasha’s mother Faridah confirms, “Yes, Natasha is keen to be an actress as well. I have no reservations about it. Like Ayesha, I want her too to make a unique mark for herself.”
She adds, “At the moment, she hasn’t signed any project but in the next six months, she will be ready.”
Like Ayesha, Natasha too studied at St Anthony’s School.
Interestingly, she has 18 piercings all over her body.
Hunk John Abraham gets Michael Jackson’s Bodyguard!
Given his Greek god looks, well-sculpted body and those charming dimples that make pretty girls go weak in their knees; John Abraham is the ultimate wild fantasy of every girl!
Well, in case you think that John cannot take care of himself, you are mistaken as the actor is wary of Indian fans that go berserk every time he comes across. It is believed that it was John’s producer who wanted extra security cover for the actor and here comes Lee, a giant with gentle demeanor.
With a hulk like body, Lee was an intimidating presence for John as the actor confirmed, “When I first saw Lee, I was a little uncomfortable, but as I got to know him I discovered that he’s actually a gentle giant and reminded of Shrek!”
News has it that Lee goes well with the entire crew of ‘1-800 Love’ and apart from guarding John from crazy fans, he helps the actor in unwinding himself between takes and also chats with his fans in a complete gentlemanly fashion!
Well, what about another hot bodyguard for Bipasha – someone who perpetually requires a guard for her sizzling hotbod! Advertisement
Saif apologises to Sikhs for trimmed Beard
With two days to go for release of Love Aaj Kal, Saif Ali Khan has resolved a major controversy surrounding his debut home production. Saif apologised to the Sikh community for sporting a trimmed beard in the movie. The Punjab Cultural and Heritage Board which had raised objection to to the portrayal of the Sikh community in the film accepted the apology from Saif in Mumbai on Wednesday evening.
In his apology Saif mentioned that he regretted not growing his beard long enough while visiting the Gurudwara to woo a girl. The movie will also be trimmed by 15 seconds as per the board's demand. Said said that his film did not try to disrespect the Gurudwara which is a place of worship for the Sikhs but considering the legitimate demands of the board he was willing to cut the scene.
This is not the first time that the Punjab Cultural and Heritage Board has raised objection to the portrayal of the Sikh community in Bollywood. Earlier films like Singh is Kinng and Jo Bole So Nihaal had run into trouble with the representatives of the Sikh community. The board also made it clear that this was the last apology they would accept from Bollywood and would not entertain such things in the future.
Madonna turns Correspondent for Israeli newspaper
Queen of Pop' Madonna has turned correspondent for Israel's biggest newspaper.
The 50-year-old pop star's article on her conversion to the Jewish cult of Kaballah has been displayed prominently on the front page of 'Yediot Ahronot' with a
The article titled 'How My Life Changed' was translated into Hebrew by the paper and an excerpt of it was published Wednesday while the full article will be published tomorrow.
In her article, the controversial singer describes her religious awakening more than a decade ago.
The singer who was born a Christian had alienated the Church with her antics including her many sexually explicit stage shows where she had appeared crucified.
The 'Material Girl' is an astute follower of Kaballah and has adopted the Hebrew name of Esther and studies Jewish mysticism.
She had also made a private pilgrimage to Israel in 2004 and will perform two shows in the country in September as part of her 'Sticky & Sweet' international tour.
Priyanka Chopra will Rule the Bollywood Roost This Year
A string of box-office hits in her kitty, an American director knocking at her door to offer the role of a superhero, a cover picture in America’s top fashion magazine ‘Harper’s Bazaar’, a reported romantic association with Bollywood heartthrob Shahid Kapur and an unending list of offers in films and TV commercials.
Things can’t get any better for Priyanka Chopra. She is currently Bollywood’s leading lady, leaving her closest competitors miles behind in the race to the top. Nobody cares if Ashutosh Gowariker thinks otherwise.
Strangely enough, though, we never really saw the former Miss World running the rat race to the top. It has rather been a catwalk, though this doesn’t mean that Priyanka hasn’t worked hard for it. Catwalk is never easy. According to Ganesha, the actor has been the proverbial swan; she has managed to swim across the troubled, and often murky, waters of Bollywood without getting her feathers wet.
With her birthday on July 18, Ganesha uses Vedic Astrology to predict how Priyanka Chopra will fare in the upcoming year.
Planetary influences
The 22nd July Solar Eclipse falls over her natal Sun
Transiting Ketu conjunct natal Sun in September and October 2009
Transiting Jupiter trine natal Venus in the first quarter of 2010
Transiting Saturn moving over natal Saturn-Mars conjunction from 11th September, 2009
Transiting Rahu will be passing through the 8th House from natal Moon
Predictions
Between 18th July and 17th August, Priyanka needs to take extra care of her health as she is prone to injuries, severe cough and cold, and also mental anguish. The actor may also get involved in some controversy. She may face criticism from some quarters of the film industry. Love issues will be very difficult to handle as she is likely to face problems on the relationship front as well.
Between 18th August and 12th October, she may suffer disappointments. Her performances may get acknowledged but her films may do average business during this phase. Priyanka may remain in the limelight not because of her films but due to the overzealous rumor mills, and her alleged relationships with her co-stars.
Between 13th October 2009 and 16th February 2010, the actor may be offered a handful of big-banner projects. She may have excessive enthusiasm and her undertakings will meet success.
From 17th February, 2010 to 14th May, 2010, Priyanka will dominate the Indian cinema. Gain in name and fame is possible. On the personal front, she will enter into a relationship.
From 15th May, 2010 to 18th July, 2010, she will aim for the top slot in her chosen field and persist with positivity despite delays, obstacles and hardships along the way. She will work well in a crisis or under pressure to sustain her position. She will prefer to have freedom and independence to expand and explore new ideas and will accept challenging roles.
Michael Jackson Up for Nobel Peace Prize?
Fans of pop legend Michael Jackson, including Indian admirers, have launched a massive online campaign to have their idol nominated for the coveted Nobel Peace Prize.
The Thriller hitmaker whose sudden death on June 25 resulted in a global outpouring of sorrow, is the ideal candidate for the prestigious prize, according to his fans who are lobbying for the late pop icon.
The groups which are active on social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter, have thousands of members who have signed a petition which will be sent to the Nobel Peace Prize Committee, the deciding body based in Norway.
"He has done a great deal for this world and he deserves this for his contribution to humanity. If not him who else?" wrote Ramaswamy from India, on one of the petition sites.
The petitioners from all around the world are campaigning for Jackson citing the humanitarian work undertaken by the 'King of Pop'.
"Michael Jackson deserves a Nobel Peace Prize for his humanitarian work! I don't nominate him for his musical work or artist expression but for his compassion for all things living on this earth," wrote Antoinette Albert from California.
The campaigners cite the various charities aided by the singer, who had written the unity anthem We Are The World to raise awareness about the famine stricken countries of Africa during the 80's.
"It would be nearly impossible to count the multiple hundreds of millions of dollars Michael has donated to charity from his own finances and also through organising major fund raising events," reads one of the online petitions.
An online group which had earlier campaigned for Jackson's nomination last year has also emerged. "We are a group of Michael Jackson fans who last year sent a letter to highly ranked people such as Nelson Mandela, Jimmy Carter, Kofi Annan and the United Nations," reads their website ForMichael.org.
As the number of people joining the petition increases, Jackson who died at the age of 50 of a suspected cardiac arrest, could quickly become a front-runner amongst other international names like Chinese activist Hu Jia and Vietnamese Buddhist monk Thich Quang.
From the world of music U2 front man Bono has also been previously nominated. Former winners of the Nobel Peace Prize include Nelson Mandela, Al Gore and Jimmy Carter.
Rakhi Sawant will get wed on August 2 in front of a live Audience
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
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Rakhi Sawant has made up her mind. The item girl is all set to tie the knot with the NRI Gujarati boy Elesh Parujanwala and end her swayamvar.
A sources reveals that Rakhi's decision to commit to the shaadi was last minute, "She asked the channel heads options to have an exit strategy. However, after long meetings with the producers and channel officials, she decided to go ahead to the wedding, and honour her contract obligations."
Describing the elaborate wedding plans, an insider says, "Right now, they are preparing for the sangeet and mehendi shoot. The wedding will take place on August 2 at a suburban hotel and will be broadcast live on television. |
Katrina Kaif Carries Boyfriend Salman’s photo everywhere
Katrina Kaif has finally spoken her heart about beau Salman Khan. In an interview, she revealed everything about her relationship with Salman Khan which very often comes under media scanner. She rubbishes the on and off affair with Sallu miya and divulged that she loves him very much and carries his photo wherever she goes. beauty even revealed how Salman Khan is desperate to marry her but she is delaying the ceremony as she wants to concentrate on career for some years.
Katrina Kaif even cleared the weather about Salman Khan’s link up with German co star Claudia Ciesla and said that they are only professionally linked up. She even gave clarification about her alleged link up with Ajab Prem Ki Gajab Kahaani co star Ranbir Kapoor.
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I have nothing to hide, says Bipasha Basu
Bold and beautiful Bipasha Basu has carved a niche for herself in the film industry. So much so that we now have her shedding light on how struggle and hard work are the only keys to success in Bollywood.
Sharing her experience with today's Bollywood aspirants, Bipasha says they must first of all learn to say 'no before saying yes'.
"You might be forced to think drinking and smoking is fashionable, but keep your focus on your goals. I started saying no before saying yes, even at the cost of upsetting people. Today, nothing in life embarrasses me and I have nothing to hide," the actress told Mumbai daily DNA.
The Bong bombshell next word of advice is, 'be responsible for yourself'. "Stay grounded and be the way you have been brought up, once fame and success hit you in dream city Mumbai," she cautions them.
AdvertisementDid Nikhil Chinappa ask for Sexual favours?
The show ended almost a month ago, but the allegations are surfacing now. First, eliminated contestants Varun Jhamb and Nalini Negi alleged that “some of the top crew members, including the director, had slept in the same room as top contender Joanna Magee; and others engaged in sexual favours, especially towards the end.” Now, Swagata G Shah is screaming herself hoarse about an alleged sex scandal. In a tell-all interview to a tabloid, this ex-contestant alleged that the contestants had to give sexual favours to the crew members that included, to the surprise of many, Nikhil Chinappa as well. DT got talking to some of the people embroiled in the controversy.
Siddhartha, winner: We all knew that there’d be only two winners and loads of losers. What was expected of them was that they’d take their defeat graciously. But that that’s where they’ve all f***** up. All these allegations are just publicity hungry losers teaming up. This ultimately reflects badly on them. Swagata was the first contestant to be eliminated. This is when she’s chosen to speak the ‘truth’ – almost after four months? Dragging Nikhila Chinappa’s name into it all is ridiculous – he’s had 10-12 years of a spotless career in the industry.
Probably, when she was eliminated, she didn’t expect the show to be such a hit. And when she realised that she hadn’t gotten much out of it, this is what she’s resorted to.
As for Nalini and Varun, they’d started using the show’s name to their advantage. They’d go to pubs in Delhi and ask for a free entry, saying they were Splitsvilla contestants. As for the pool party that Swagata has spun her version around, let me clarify that there was a pool only for the crew members and there was a separate party area for the contestants. During the show’s shoot, contestant-crew member interaction was barred and the same applied to the pool party as well. Although there were a few minutes of interaction, none of the girls were left alone with the crew members in the pool.
Nikhil Chinappa: I don’t want to comment on it. The channel will come out with an official statement soon. After all, it’s about the channel’s image and mine.
Rajiv Laxman (Creative director of the show): I categorically deny these allegations. We have strict rules that prevent the mingling of the crew with the cast. Swagata was the first contestant to be eliminated and didn’t even spend a night at the villa. She doesn’t have any inkling of the way things work there. The channel is seen as a soft target. With every season of our reality show such things have come to the fore.
There’s been a lot of learning from this incident. In our forthcoming season, we’ll make sure that a thorough background check is done on the cast.
Sex should be Worshipped, says Priyanka
The sexy Priyanka Kothari aka Nisha Kothari may not have had a run of successes in Bollywood since her debut film 'James.'
The actress once again finds shelter in her godfather Ram Gopal Verma to resurrect her career. And as she gets ready to give yet another taste of her acting skills in her next release, 'Agyaat', she also shares her views on the subject of 'sex.'
Priyanka learnt about the three letter word 'sex' from her school friends who would always talk about and try to figure what it really meant. She finds it too 'intimate and private' to discuss with anyone.
For her sex is a divine creation and ought to be worshipped.
"Sex should be worshipped. We all love to make love but when we all talk about it, we talk cheap. God must've got some reason to form something called sex without which the world wouldn't exist," Priyanka was quoted by a websi
AdvertisementBollywood actress Kareena Kapoor endorses Jewellery brand in Mumbai
Bollywood actress Kareena Kapoor endorsed a jewellery brand here on Monday.
Top models sashayed down the ramp dressed as the bride and the groom, at a fashion show organized to mark the occasion.
Talking to media, Kapoor denied speculation of a possible marriage with her boyfriend, actor Saif Ali Khan.
"As of now, I don't have any plan for marriage, at least for two years now. If I have any plans I will let you (the media) now of my plans," she said.
The jewellery brand, which Kapoor endorsed, was meant for the young bride.
Court Orders FIR against Rakhi, five others
A local court on Tuesday asked the police to register an FIR against six persons including item girl Rakhi Sawant, actor Ravi Kishan and a top official of a leading channel for allegedly stealing the concept of a marriage-based TV reality show from a private portal.
Judicial Magistrate No 27 Shilpa Sameer directed the Karni Nagar police station in the city to register an FIR against the six including Sawant for alleged breach of copyright by lifting the concept of Swayamvar from the portal of a Pink City-based 'struggling' writer Gaurav Tiwari.
Besides Sawant and Kishan the FIR is to be lodged against Manging Director of NDTV Imagine Gaurav Gandhi, the Executive Director of the show 'Rakhee Ka Swayamvar' and two others for their participation in the programme.
In his complaint filed under section 156 (3), Tiwari alleged that his concept of marriages through swayamvar was his intellectual property and copyrighted in the year 2008 itself but the TV channel had stolen the idea and concept from his portal Swayamvar.Com and started the show.
The court directed the police to register an FIR in connection with the complaint and investigate it.
AdvertisementAishwarya and Shah Rukh to end seven year long cold War
Looks like Aishwarya and Shah Rukh’s seven year old cold war is soon going to end. The two will reportedly be seen in Shah Rukh Khan’s next home production.
Sources suggest that SRK and Ash have decided to bury their hatchets and work together for a flick to be produced by SRK’s ‘Red Chillies Entertainment’. The other details regarding the project are not known as yet but what’s sure here is the fact that the two colossal actors will surely be seen giving each other company.
The shooting for the film is expected to start in 2010. Advertisement
Michael Jackson Up For Nobel Peace Prize?
Fans of pop legend Michael Jackson, including Indian admirers, have launched a massive online campaign to have their idol nominated for the coveted Nobel Peace Prize.
The 'Thriller' hitmaker whose sudden death on June 25 resulted in a global outpouring of sorrow, is the ideal candidate for the prestigious prize according to his fans who are lobbying for the late pop icon.
The groups which are active on social networking sites like Face Book and Twitter, have thousands of members who have signed a petition which will be sent to the Nobel Peace Prize Committee, the deciding body based in Norway.
"He has done a great deal to this world. he deserves this for his contribution to humanity. If not him who else?" wrote Ramaswamy from India on one of the petition sites.
The petitioners from all around the world are campaigning for Jackson citing the humanitarian work undertaken by the 'King of Pop'.
"Michael Jackson deserves a Nobel Peace Prize for his humanitarian work! I don't nominate him for his musical work or artist expression but for his compassion for all things living on this earth," wrote Antoinette Albert from California.
The campaigners cite the various charities aided by the singer, who had written the unity anthem 'We Are The World' to raise awareness about the famine stricken countries of Africa during the 80's.
"It would be nearly impossible to count the multiple hundreds of millions of dollars Michael has donated to charity from his own finances and also through organising major fund raising events," reads one of the online petitions.
An online group which had earlier campaigned for Jackson's nomination last year has also emerged.
"We are a group of Michael Jackson fans who last year sent a letter to highly ranked people such as Nelson Mandela, Jimmy Carter, Kofi Annan and the United Nations," reads their website ForMichael.org.
As the number of people joining the petition increases, Jackson who died at the age of 50 of a suspected cardiac arrest, could quickly become a front-runner amongst other international names like Chinese activist Hu Jia and Vietnamese Buddhist monk Thich Quang.
Former winners of the Nobel Peace Prize include Nelson Mandela, Al Gore and Jimmy Carter while U2 front man Bono has also been previously nominated.
The 'Thriller' hitmaker whose sudden death on June 25 resulted in a global outpouring of sorrow, is the ideal candidate for the prestigious prize according to his fans who are lobbying for the late pop icon.When Salman left Farah Khan Embarrassed
Choreographer-turned-director Farah Khan says that Bollywood star Salman Khan had left her red-faced when he took her along for the auditions of his super hit 1989 film “Maine Pyar Kiya”.
Farah recalled the incident when she came on the reality show “Dus Ka Dum 2″, which is being hosted by Salman.
“He (Salman) took me along so that I could show him a few steps to do before director Sooraj Barjatya. But when Salman did the steps, it was so appalling that I simply picked up by footwear, hailed a cab and took off home,” said Farah on the show.
Salman, who started blushing after his secret was revealed, agreed that he did have two left feet then and later even demonstrated the step he was required to perform at the auditions, said a source from the sets of the show.
This particular episode will air Saturday at 9 p.m. on Sony TV.
AdvertisementDatuk Shah Rukh makes RM50,000 donation to Malaysian Sports foundation
Monday, July 27, 2009
Shah Rukh Khan has always been a sports enthusiast. Whether it's cricket or soccer, the actor has always supported all kinds of sports.
Rani tagged along
Recently the Malaysian prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak invited SRK for his birthday celebrations. During his stay, Shah Rukh made a donation of RM50,000 to National Athletes Welfare Foundation of Malaysia.
Rani Mukerji accompanied SRK for the event where he handed over the cheque and spoke about his love for sports. He said that he hoped his donation would help fund programmes and schemes set up for athletes in the country.Getting briefed
The sports minister Datuk Ahmad Shabery Cheek briefed Rani and Shah Rukh about the 1 Ringgit, 1 Malaysia campaign which was set up to help collect donations for former athletes.
Shah Rukh was addressed as Datuk Shah Rukh at the event. He'd received the honorary title from the government last year.
Mahesh Bhatt to make Hindu-Muslim Titanic in Lahore
Mahesh Bhatt is planning to shoot a Bollywood flick in Pakistan’s Lahore city. The film is based on a Hindu-Muslim love story where the hero is from Pakistan and actress is from India.
Bhatt says, It is a pre-Partition Titanic. It’s a story of intense love between two culturally-cossed individuals during times of abject hatred.
It’s the story a Muslim boy who saves the Hindu girl from his own people and gives up his life in protecting her.We’re introducing a new star from Pakistan and a completely new girl from Bharat. The Pakistani boy is Nouman, a singing sensation in his country.”
We’ll of course shoot the entire film in Lahore since that’s where the film is located. We’ll be using their infrastructure and work force. The cultural secretary and the governor of Punjab have extended whole-hearted support to our film.”
Nouman(in the above picture) is the same guy who has sung the song Main Chala from the movie Jashnn.
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