Sanjay Dutt signs Rs. 20 crore deal!

Multi-crore deals are ‘in’ these days and almost every notable production house is into signing actors/directors for multi-film assignments.


The latest khabar is, Sanjay Dutt has inked a 3-film deal with producer-friend Bunty Walia. The films are 'Lamhaa', to be directed by Rahul Dholakia, 'Just Punjabi', to be directed by producer turned director Jaspreet Singh Walia and 'Gangs of London', to be directed by ad film maker Shamin Desai. The three films will go on floors between 2008 – 2010. Reportedly, Dutt will be paid Rs. 20 crores + for this 3-film deal.

“The amount is undisclosable,” Bunty Walia informs me. Meanwhile, the balance star cast is under finalization.

Kajol with Ajay in 'Toonpur Ka Super Hero'

Eros International has signed Kajol opposite husband Ajay Devgan for 'Toonpur Ka Super Hero' , a 3D film with animation. The film marks Eros’ second production with the husband-wife duo after 'You, Me and Hum'.

Directed by ad film maker Kireet Khurana, 'Toonpur Ka Super Hero' tells the story of a reel-life hero accidentally landing in a world of cartoons and transforming into a real-life hero. The film will have Ajay Devgan playing himself.

Jaitley turns prankster

MUMBAI, India - Bollywood actress Celina Jaitley played a practical joke on an unsuspecting New Zealand director by teaching him insults in Hindi language, a news report said Monday.

At a party during the recent filming of "Love Has No Languages" in New Zealand, Jaitley urged Kiwi director Ken Khan to greet Indian guests by saying: "Namaste, tera baap chor hain," or "Greetings, your father is a thief."

Khan fell for it.

"You should have seen the expression on the guests' faces when Ken actually said that to them. They were just stunned and did not know how to react," Jaitley told the Mumbai Mirror newspaper. "Of course, later I told the guests that it was a prank that I had played on him."

The movie about cross-cultural romance has Jaitley playing an Indian girl brought up in New Zealand who falls in love with Kiwi actor Ben Mitchell. The romance sets Jaitley on a collision course with her conservative parents who want her to marry an Indian.

Jaitley is among a growing number of Indian actors starring in overseas productions.

A beauty queen turned actress, Jaitley won the Miss India contest in 2001 and made her Bollywood debut two years later. She has since acted in more than 10 Hindi-language movies.

Malaika Arora Khan - Maxim Mom oozing maximum appeal

Malaika Arora Khan is undoubtedly our industry’s hottest mom who not only oozes style and oomph, but she does it with élan and pride. The lady has many firsts to her credit—the first to perform an item number on a moving train, the first non–model to VJ for a popular music channel and the first model whose stilettos became as big a hit as she was. Now, the latest addition to this list of firsts is being the first mother to appear on the Maxim cover of this month’s edition. Titled ‘Black Velvet’ the photographs show Malaika in black lingerie, striking provocative poses on a couch. The concept of the shoot is by Wendell Rodericks while photographs are snapped by Farroukh Chothia.

- Maxims India

Gauri Khan in Om Shanti Om

Hot gossips is going on that we will see soon gauri khan soon acting in "Om shanti Om" .For the first time ever , Gauri will play a little walk-in role in this film produced by her self.

The scene depicts Gauri to walk a red carpet for a song at the end of the movie as the credits come on. Typically Farah, the technicians and crew members of the movie take a bow too in this number. Farah had tried earlier in vain to convince the elusive Mrs Khan to make a guest appearance in her first movie, Main Hoon Na . “But she ditched me. I think, Shah Rukh convinced her to do it this time,” said Farah.
Gauri is said to get bored very easily of the takes and several retakes while shooting.

“She has no patience, that’s why we don’t try to get her in front of the camera,” explained Farah. “However, for this shot, she just had to step out of a car and walk the red carpet waving to the crowd like a star.” According to the director, Gauri did not require to put in much effort for this scene. “She is very natural before the camera and is poised and stylish even otherwise,” said Farah. “Next time, I’ll try and get her to do an entire song!”


That Gauri is a style diva in Bollywood, is known. Men are also reported to find her hot! And she has constantly attracted the attention of ad filmmakers and movie producers who have all tried unsuccessfully to lure her onto the screen. Mira Nair was one of them.

- Bollywood Gossips

Prashant Tamang - NEW INDIAN IDOL 3

Breaking News : "And the Indian Idol is Prashant Tamang"... Thats what John Abraham said while announcing the name of the Indian Idol 3 . Finally his dreams and the hard work for months have come to a happy end.

Full Credits to the Kolkata Police.

As per reports, people from north eastern states of india started celebrating the victory of Prashant by lighting fireworks

Celebrity couples - will they tie the knot?

Will these celeb couple tie the knot?
Kareena and Shahid:


Kareena Kapoor is number 3 and Shahid Kapur is number 7. This relationship is an extremely volatile one. But the attractions are extremely strong. In the relationship of 3 and 7, the bondings are very strong but a small spark of misunderstanding can ruin it totally. Kareena Kapoor may take an abrupt desicion to get married. The problem is not marriage, but what will happen after marriage, because Shahid Kapoor may be a different person from what he is now and there are chances of problems to creep up.

- Bollywood Gossips

Celebrity couples - will they tie the knot?

John Abraham and Bipasha Basu:



Bipasha Basu is number 7 and John Abraham is number 8. 7 and 8 make it as very good friends. But this year, 2007, is a tough year for both of them. The possibilities of the relationship getting over are extremely strong. It may have a bad impact on John’s career. Whatever has happened to John’s career may have happened due to Bipasha’s luck and once the lady luck will be gone, John may also start losing all his stardom.


- Bollywood Gossips

Celebrity couples - will they tie the knot?

Preity Zinta and Ness Wadia:



Preity Zinta is number 4 and Ness Wadia is number 3. This relationship is not a strong one. This is because both of them will have different views. They will get along as friends but their thoughts will not match. The biggest problem is that Ness Wadia’s name comes to number 29 which means that you can be ditched by your closest friends or associates or lover at any moment. Therefore chances of Preity Zinta calling off the realationship without any reason are very strong.

- Bollywood Gossips

Celebrity couples - will they tie the knot?

Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif:



Salman Khan is number 9 and Katrina Kaif is number 7. This is a good combination. But Salman Khan is presently going through a bad phase in life. After the flop of 'Salaam-E-Ishq,' there may be one more huge flop this year. If he continues his relationship with Katrina Kaif till the end of the year then he will decide to get married to her next year and he will have many super hit films next year.

- Bollywood Gossips

I don't think I'll look older than Shahid: Vidya

One cannot even imagine seeing Shahrukh khan sitting idle. Believe it or not, King Khan is jobless recent times. After the grand success of his movie Chak De India where he played the Hockey Coach of Indian Women's Hockey team, the actor is waiting for the release of Om Shakti Om which is set to release this year.

Though he is working on some other movies too but he is not very sure about their release dates. It happens sometimes Shahrukh..

Good Luck !!


- Bollywood Gossips

Aneek really loves Sumedha?

Love is in the air for Aneek Dhar, one of the final four contestants of Zee's 'Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Challenge 2007'. And he goes blue in the face denying it.

This young singer has been in the news for all the wrong reasons. It all started with Aneek's candid confession of love for Dia Mirza, when she made an appearance as a guest on the show. Dia herself was quite flabbergasted, but handled it well.

Then he went on record about a 'secret crush on a certain someone'. He calls her his mysterious 'woh'. And the producers leave us with no doubt over her identity, giving us numerous shots of a rather annoyed Sumedha, from Bappi Lahiri's gharana.

Added to that is his guru, Himesh Reshammiya's blessings. Aneek laughs, "It is true Himeshji is trying to make me a groom for Bappiji's gharana, but I have no such intention right now."

There is also the possibility of a third person involved. If rumours are to be believed, then Amanat Ali is the thorn in Aneek's side. Interestingly, Aneek claims that Amanat is his best friend on the show – "I love him very much, and he is my best friend." Aneek has also said that his vote goes to Amanat.

So then, is this young controversial singer in love? "It's a secret, and please, let it remain a secret. People will know the truth one day," he says.

We are waiting.

I am not seeing Mauli Dave: Aditya Narayan

He came, he spoke, and he conquered, against all odds. Aditya Narayan has become a favourite with the audience of 'Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Challenge 2007', and he has hung on, despite all criticism. We ask him how it feels, now that the show is coming to an end.

Q. What was it like, growing up as a famous singer's son?
A. It was great. Both my parents are singers, and my understanding of music began when I was a year old. I ate music, I slept music, and I am proud of that.

Q. 'Sa Re Ga Ma Pa' is a very successful show, and this is your first time as an anchor. How do you feel about it?
A. I had to fit into Shaan's shoes, and that was a challenge. There were a lot of expectations. I worked hard, so that nobody got a chance to complain. Before hosting the show, I knew that I would not become an extraordinary anchor, but I also knew that I could be good.

Q. Was it your own decision to become a singer? Or did your parents want you to become one?
A. I was never forced into singing. It came to me naturally. Singing is in my genes.

Q. You have a diploma in contemporary English music. You seem to have more on your mind?
A. Yes, I do. You just wait and watch.

Q. Have you noticed any changes in yourself since you began anchoring this show? Do you still get nervous?
A. I was never nervous. I think hosting is my biggest strength. I used to fumble and forget lines earlier, but I have become very confident now.

Q. What do you think contributes to the success of the show?
A. There is more than one reason. Each and every person involved in the show has given it their best – from the director to the producer, to each member of the unit.

Q. What is your equation with the judges and the contestants?
A. Great. They have been a constant source of encouragement for me, and I would really like to thank everyone related to the show – they were with me every time I needed them.

Q. You have received proposals, and contestants have even kissed you. Are you considering any?
A. No, no, no! It is my work that gets the appreciation and love, not me.

Q. You have worked hard to maintain a certain look on the show as well. Any inspiration?
A. I am inspired by hard work. I work out, I eat healthy, and I even go for facials, manicures and pedicures. I am a complete foodie, but every time I overeat, I work out extra. Looking good has become part of my lifestyle.

Q. How have your friends reacted to the new you? Do you give them tips?
A. My friends are with me whenever I have some free time. They are all aware of my style funda. I experiment a lot with my clothes, from suits to jeans, etc.

Q. Your father is a judge on 'Indian Idol 3' and you host a similar show on a rival channel. Do you discuss things related to the two shows, when you are at home?
A. I know my show is the best, although I do not say this to him. Jokes apart, we discuss the shows at home, in detail.

Q. Who is your favourite contestant, and who do you think should win the show?
A. All of them are fantastic. The person who deserves to win, will be the winner.

Q. After this show, will we see you as a singer or as an actor? Or do you want to be successful at both?
A. I wanted to be a wrestler, but things did not work out. Now I want to be not only a successful singer, musician and actor, but anything that is related to the entertainment industry.

Q. You had played Salman Khan's son in a movie. What was it like, sharing the stage with him as a host?
A. He was very surprised to see me, as I am now all grown up. We relived some moments of those days.

Q. Your best friend, Mauli Dave, is out of the show. Are you still in touch with her?
A. I am, since she is in Mumbai, and plans to be here for some time. I never understood why all those rumours floated around.

Q. Any messages for your fans? Especially your female fans?
A. I would want to thank everyone for all the love and support that they have given me. They have accepted me as I am, and for that, I am really thankful.

- Santa Banta

There's nothing evil in flaunting your sexuality: Sherlyn Chopra

Sexy Siren Sherlyn Chopra is ready to launch her own music album Outrageous- The End Of The Beginning.

A photo shoot was held recently by ace celebrity photographer Rakesh Shreshta, covered by all leading media publications and channels, which kick started the re-launch of the sexy actress. Incidentally even her video will be directed by adman Prahlad Kakkar, which insiders reveal will match her western counterparts in the look, feel, and the 'hot' quotient. Incidentally Sherlyn has also composed and written the lyrics of her album Outrageous- The End Of The Beginning.

Says the sizzling hot actress, "Outrageous is an attitude. It will speak the language of the gen-next youth. It brings to fore the deep hidden desires that every human being harbours inside but refuses to acknowledge. The USP of my album is that it promotes an attitude of being born free. It's okay to break rules and follow your heart's desires."

She also seems pretty excited since adman Prahlad Kakkar will be directing his first music video featuring her. "Prahlad Kakkar is a legend in his field. There couldn't have been a better person to direct the video. Remember it's an attitude, and that has to come to the fore. Thankfully I am having the right people associated with the album."

The firebrand actress is not deterred and has no qualms in flaunting what she's got. "There's nothing evil in flaunting your sexuality if you have it, flaunt it. But also just because I expose, doesn't mean that I'm a loose character. But I speak my mind."

Though the actress admits that her image is misconstrued at times because she herself is a bundle of contradictions. She chuckles, "I am stylish and yet simple at heart, sometimes naive and yet street smart. I am a lamb in a tigress' body."

Simply 'Outrageous', Sherlyn's attitude says it all!

© Copyright 2007 Glamsham Enfotainment Magazine.

"I'm happy about Sanjay's Arrest" - Rakhi Sawant

Bollywood Item Girl Rakhi Sawant said in an interview that she is happy about Sanjay Dutt's Arrest and everyone in the Bollywood knows that this arrest is reasonable. She added that people in Bollywood dont dare say anything against Sanjay Dutt because they have invested some good amount of money on the actor.

Rakhi Sawant challenged that no one has the guts to ask her why she said like this.

Rakhi Sawant, the bollywood celebrity who has been very famous among bollywood celebrities due to her sexy dance numbers, celebrity controversy, rumors has commented on many other bollywood celebrities in the past which also includes Amitabh Bachchan.

When Rakhi found that she might get into some kind of trouble for giving such a daredevil interview, she tried to change her statement saying that she did not say such things about Sanjay Dutt. All she said was that the guilty must be punished.

- Bollywood Gossips

Good News - Pooja Bhatt's Dhokha goes Tax-Free

For all the wrong reasons that Dhokha was marred with, this news comes as a breather for director Pooja Bhatt, that Dhokha has been exempted from tax in Maharashtra and Delhi. Needless to say, that she is on the seventh heaven now. It is indeed a big thing for her considering the fact that the other two films that came out with Dhokha are out of the theatres. When IndiaFM spoke to her about this, a beaming Pooja said, “It’s indeed a great feeling. It is a very big thing for us as the ticket prices getting slashed to almost half will make the film accessible to the masses who need to see and learn from a film like this. We released Dhokha only in the multiplexes, since we could not get the single screens. Aag demanded and commanded more respect from the exhibitors and they gave them a kind of a much better peg, as it had the whole of the industry in it and was also the remake of Sholay.”

She added that Dhokha was not as controversial as Jism, which had a lot more to offer on the surface than Dhokha. Dhokha is more of a story’s film. She considers the ‘Tax-Free’ status as a great validation for the entire unit since they feel that their hard work has finally been paid off.

Looking at the trend of ‘sequels’ mushrooming in the market, when quizzed if she plans to do a sequel to Dhokha, Pooja laughed it off stating that she too busy enjoying the moment and was not in a mood to think anything else. On a lighter note, she added that if ever she was to make a Dhokha Part 2, she will follow the idiot box way and change the face of the actor! If that doesn’t work, then, she will take a cue from her grandfather, who was into the mythological films, and who would ‘transform’ the actors who used to throw tantrums, into animals!

Whats up ? Ramu !!

Before the release of his much awaited and talked about film Ram Gopal Varma Ki Aag , Mr. Varma definitely must have had ‘Butter- flies’ in his stomach. Moreover, since it was not just any usual copy or remake heard of but was a remake of the legendary film, Sholay . Well the film did release and as expected ( especially by Ramesh Sippy) Varma did get his share of flaks pelted at him, but what was really unexpected was that people who usually butter him up too melted away. So when we have the famous and popular ‘Butter ad’ take a dig at him saying, “Ab tera Kya hoga Ramu” one cannot help but be the mean Gabbar Singh to him.

- indiafm.com

Chak De India enters Curriculum of business schools

Chak De India team gets another reason to smile. The word Chak De India not only drove them to win the world Cup in the film but now, has created its magic on MBA students as well. Chak De India will make its entry in textbooks of Business schools as a case study. The subject dealt in Chak De India and Curriculum of business schools might be poles apart. However, Chak De India boasts about a magnificent inspiration taken by management schools from various places in India, says YRF spokesperson, Monika Bhattacharya, “We have been getting mails from institutes in Chandigarh and Bhopal saying that they are including the film into their curriculum.” Chak De team, especially SRK and the director Shimit Amin have felt extremely proud to make such an inspirational film, says Monika,” It’s feels great as it is a matter of honour. We didn’t probably expect that the film would have such kind of effect on the youth and inspire people in such a way. I think it’s very heartening.” Before Chak De India, Lagaan and Corporate were included in management syllabus.

"We are not close right now" Kareena said

"We are not close right now" Kareena said, as a Non official source reported . This seems to be regarded as the begining of the spat between these two widely discussed stars in bollywood. The body chemistry seems to flourish on the eve of shooting of 'Tashan'. Their latest movie 'Jab We Met' is on doorsteps of release. Director was very upset with the news as it will impose negative effects on the public.

Abhishek Bachchan paints for kids

Bollywood star Abhishek Bachchan tried his hand at painting for ‘India on canvas’, an art-charity project initiated by Delhi based NGO ‘Khushii’.

The charity project was attended by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s wife Gurcharan Kaur, Praful Patel and former cricketer Kapil Dev here yesterday.

‘Khushii’ also opened their ‘art-for-charity’ site, where one can log on and bid for the works of painters like M F Hussain, Tyeb Mehta and Satish Gujral.

The proceeds of the auction will be utilised for a number of projects for children and adolescents run by the NGO. A similar auction last year raised Rs 1.5 crore.

— BollywoodGossips.Net

Dhawan's 'Partner' records 50 days at the box office

David Dhawan's biggest success since his smash blockbuster Aankhen (Govinda, Chunkey Pandey), Partner, completes 50 days at the box office Friday.

After taking the best box office start of the year 2007, the film went on to hold itself quite well over the weeks, and consolidated its place in spite of tough competition from the likes of first Chak De India and later Heyy Babyy.

The entertainer has seen massive patronage globally, and has been a hit not just in India, but also overseas.

After raking in more than Rs.60 crore at the box office, the film is now running at only select screens. The film's DVDs are expected to hit the stands towards the end of September, and should only add on to the film's superb following over the weeks.

-Glamsham.Com

Dard-e-Disco' with SRKs 6-pack abs!

The latest song promo from Farah Khan's 35-crore 'Diwali' release, Om Shanti Om, is basically a tribute to the 80s disco era, aptly titled 'Dard-e-Disco'!

More than the song, what is noticeable is that it is after six long years (Asoka) that Shah Rukh Khan has bared his body for his home production, Om Shanti Om. It is obvious that Shah Rukh has worked very hard on his physique before exhibiting his 6-pack abs! Will the girls go weak in their knees watching a more muscular Khan?

While on the much awaited audio album of Om Shanti Om, it is expected to be released on September 18, at a grand function in Mumbai.

© Copyright 2007 Glamsham Enfotainment Magazine.

Favourite rain song? Bollywood responds

Be it the softly romantic 'Pyar hua iqraar hua' from Sri 420 or the frankly sensual 'Aaj rapat jayen' from Namak Halaal, rain songs have been a constant in Bollywood films down the ages. Here, stars and directors list their favourites:

Saif Ali Khan: My favourite rain song will have to be 'Tip tip barsa pani' from the film Mohra. I like the lyrics and the ambience created by the tune.

Hema Malini: I'll choose one of my own songs. It will have to be 'Rama rama gazab' from Naya Zamana. It was a scene where this rich girl gets in a folk costume and sings and dances in the rain with the folks in the basti. I loved the simplicity and grace of the moment. And it was filmed with great dignity.

Shabana Azmi: 'Pyar hua iqraar hua' from Sri 420. It contains the iconic image of Nargis singing to Raj Kapoor with her entire soul embodied under the umbrella as the three little kids (actually, Raj Kapoor's real-life children) pass by.

Urmila Matondkar: 'Pyar hua iqraar hua' in Sri 420 had an unforgettable melody by Shankar-Jaikishan, truly sensuous sung by Manna Dey and Lata Mangeshkar and great chemistry between Raj Kapoor and Nargis. I also love my own 'Geela geela pani' from 'Satya'. Lataji's voice, Vishal Bharadwaj's composition and Gulzar saab's lyrics soak you in ravishing rain even if you are perched in a parched desert.

Alka Yagnik: 'Rimjhim ke geet saawan gaye' by Lataji and Mohammad Rafi saab in Anjana and my own 'Tip tip barsa pani' from Mohra, for different reasons - first one because it's the height of romance and the other because it's very seductive.

Bappi Lahiri: My favourite rain song is 'Aaj rapat jayen' from Namak Halaal because Amitji (Amitabh Bachchan) and Smitaji (Smita Patil) danced so well in the rain. I also like 'Tip tip barish' from Afsana Pyar Ka where Aamir Khan stood the whole night in the rain singing to his beloved. Very romantic!

Vipul Shah: 'Pyar hua iqrar hua' from Sri 420 because it's romantic and sexy, and still not vulgar.

Aftab Shivdasani: 'Tip tip barsa pani' from Mohra, I had loved it on the audio. I loved it even more when I saw it on screen featuring Akshay Kumar and Raveena Tandon.

Mahesh Bhatt: It will have to be 'Dil tera diwana hai sanam'. The black and white film Dil Tera Diwana, which I saw in primary school, still twinkles in my mind. It was a great tune by Shankar-Jaikishan. And there were super performances by Shammi Kapoor and Mala Sinha soaked in rain and marinated in the spice of nostalgia.

Pritam Chakbraborty: 'Rimjhim gire sawan' in Manzil. I love the song. Awesome composition by Rahul Dev Burman, fabulous lyrics by Yogesh and terrific singing by Lata Mangeshkar and Kishore Kumar. And it was shot on Amitabh Bachchan and Moushumi Chatterjee on Marine Drive. I loved the chemistry between them. I also like 'Dilbara' from Dhoom because it's my tune and I like how Abhishek Bachchan, Uday Chopra and Esha Deol romp in the rain.

Zayed Khan: It would have to be 'Kaate nahin kat-te yeh din yeh raat' from Mr. India. It had Sridevi in a wet blue chiffon sari at her sensuous best. She projected the quintessential Indian woman. Simply super!

Rahul Bose: Sridevi in 'Kate nahin kat-te yeh din yeh raat' gave an entirely new definition to the 'blue wet Indian clingy sari' trick. She was in splendid form. Pure magic. And the rains did the rest.

Rituparno Ghosh: 'Chotisi kahani se, baarishon ke paani se' in the film Ijaazat. Gulzar bhai has written other rain songs like 'Barse phuhar' in 'Thodisi Bewafaii' and 'Phirse aayo barda bidesi' in Namkeen. But the 'Ijaazat' song remains special. It defined the entire mood of the film. I wish I could've used it in my own film Raincoat.

Madhur Bhandarkar: My favourite rain song is 'Rimjhim gire saawan' from Manzil. It has an earthy aromatic feel to it and has been shot candidly in the streets of Mumbai.

Aadesh Shrivastava: 'Bheegi-bheegi raaton mein' from Ajnabee sung by Kishore da and Lata Mangeshkar. What I like the most about the song is the on-screen pair Rajesh Khanna and Zeenat Aman.

Manoj Bajpai: 'Rim-jhim gire sawan' in Manzil. It's simple yet sensuous. I don't like in-the-face sensuality. I don't think we can capture that mood ever again. We aren't that simple any longer.

David Dhawan: 'Hai hai yeh majboori' in Roti Kapda Aur Makaan. Laxmikant-Pyarelal's tune, Lataji's singing, Zeenat Aman on screen and Manoj Kumar's direction. What else?

Raveena Tandon: 'Ab ke sawan' by Shubha Mudgal. It has amazing energy. And it immediately makes me want to get wet and wild in the rain. 'Lagi aaj sawan ki phir vo jhadi hai' in Chandni when the rain makes me mellow moody and romantic.

Rajit Kapur: 'Rimjhim gire sawan' - it's a brilliant composition, serene and sensuous, fragrant and romantic, and to this day, as fresh as the first showers.

Sammir Dattani: I've three favourite rain songs from three eras. I love 'Tip tip baarish shuroo ho gayi' from Afsana Pyar Ka. As kids we all loved to get wet and sing this number because it was so easy to sing. My second favourite is 'Lagi aaj sawan ki Phir vo jhadi hai' from Chandni. It's filled with romance and nostalgia and Sridevi was so dignified in the rain. Finally, my new favourite rain song is 'Barso re megha' from Guru. For one reason only - Aishwarya Rai.

© Copyright 2007 Indo Asian News Service.

"Himesh is the Laxmikant-Pyarelal of today" - Subhash Ghai

Subhash Ghai has recently sold the rights for his Karz to T-Series. But wasn't Karz inspired by The Reincarnation Of Peter Proud?

“Yes," Ghai admits. "But only in one scene where Peter meets his mother. The rest of the story and script was written afresh as per Indian myths and beliefs. You have to see Reincarnation Of Peter Proud to see how different it was from Karz."

Ask him if Himesh Reshammiya would do as much justice to the main lead as Rishi Kapoor and SG replies, "I'm no authority to judge the future work of any talent. Himesh may even prove better, who knows? I know Laxmikant-Pyarelal did a fabulous job in my Karz. But I'm sure Himesh will do a good job. Himesh is today's Laxmikant Pyarelal ...time brings new people too."

Subhash Ghai is working with Gulzar Saab for the first time in his new directorial venture Main Yuvraj. Why the change from Javed Akhtar Saab? Smiles Ghai, "It's the script that tells a director to choose the right talent and technicians to justify the mood of the film ... its nothing personal .You’ve to wait and watch what we do together. But it has to be unique. Every film of mine has its own rhythm and pattern. Khalnayak came after Saudagar, Pardes came after Khalnayak, Taal came after Pardes; so every film is a new child with a different face for a director and he enters into a new avenue, risk and challenges. That’s the thrill of a good director being on the scene."

But before Main Yuvraj featuring Salman Khan, Katrina Kaif and Anil Kapoor, Subhash Ghai has a smaller directorial venture Black & White ready for release.

Ghai defends the 'smallness' of the venture. "Mukta has given Iqbal and Joggers Park too. They were smaller more intimate films. Yes, Black & White is being made under the Mukta Searchlight banner with minimum budget. It's an issue-based subject with a different approach. Whereas Main Yuvraaj is a full- on entertainer to release in 2008. Let’s see what Subhash Ghai brings to you. May be a surprise if not a shock. He is working hard as usual with a smile," Ghai ends in the third person in true royal showman fashion.

Ram Gopal Verma announces his next film, shoot in November

After Aag, Ram Gopal Varma has decided to do what he is best at. In a split-second decision (well, almost!) he has decided to make a film with only newcomers in the cast. The decision was taken earlier this week and Ramu is ready to roll by the beginning of November.

Revealing his plans the never-say-die director explains, "The film has a tongue twisting title, Dheyaya. It's a Sanskrit word for mission. I wanted an unused word to express what the film sets out to achieve. It'll be a realistic gritty dark film about the link between the underworld and various legitimate and illegitimate terrorist organizations. I want to trace the evolution of the underworld to where it stands today. The underworld started in the 1980s with smuggling then graduated to extortion and contract killings. Today the terrorist organizations are using criminal networks as conduits for their operations. That's the scenario Dhyeya will portray."

Ramu will not cast a single known face in the Dhyeya. "I want newcomers because I want the actors to not have any pre-conceived images. But in scale it will be a big-budget film.

Explains Ramu, "At the time when Satya and Company was made the underworld signified a different kind of fear. Today it's something else. I want to make it a very hard-hitting film. It will also show links between the underworld and politics and bring in international organizations like the CIA."

The film starts in November. "I'll finish Sarkar Raj at the end of October. I want to start Dhyeya immediately after. I had been toying with the idea for quite some time. Now we're seriously scripting the film."

"King of Bollywood" well received in Marathi

KING OF BOLLYWOOD: SHAH RUKH KHAN AND THE SEDUCTIVE WORLD OF INDIAN CINEMA by Anupama Chopra, which was recently translated and released in Marathi, has sold over 900 copies in one week.

The English edition sold over 10,000 copies in the first ten days, after which the Marathi edition has also created a record for itself. The Marathi translation, published by Ameya Prakashan, was released in Pune last week.



- IndiaFM

Sunny, Irrfan, Konkona in 'Right or Wrong'

Mukta Arts’ next venture in association with Ikkon Films P. Ltd.’s RIGHT OR WRONG, starring Sunny Deol, Irrfan Khan, Konkana Sen Sharma, Isha Koppikar, Kirron Kher, Aryan Vaid and Anjan Srivastava, started shooting from 5th September. The film is being written-directed by Neeraj Pathak.

Other credits include music by Monty Sharma, cinematography by Ravi Walia and costumes designed by Simple Kapadia. The film is slated for an early next year release.

Jiah Khan's Groovy Sensuousness

Jiah Khan oozes sensuous charm. In this photoshoot for stardust front cover, she unravels her sexuality. There's something mysteriously beautiful about her that grips attention.watch this special photoshoot as it's Exclusively for you

- IndiaFM

Hot and Sexy Kangana Ranaut

Glamorous Mat Kaho Na: Lara Dutta

It hasn't been a easy time for the luminous Lara.

If she's been missing from the line of hyper-action for the past year it's because, Lara Dutta has been looking after her ailing parents. "They were both in hospital. So I was either with them, or shooting in Dubai and London. My first priority was my parents. And I had no time or appetite for networking and socializing."

Apart from other problems at home her cell number has been quite an irritant.

"They gave me a new number that apparently belonged to Mahesh Manjrekar. I kept getting calls from him."

The cell faux pas came to such a head that Lara would first clarify that it was Mr Manjrekar's number before proceeding with conversations.

She laughs heartily at the Priyadarshan-like confusion. Laughter comes easily to her after the success of No Entry and Bhagam Bhag.

"No film in recent times did more for me than No Entry. I wanted to do lighter films. And No Entry gave me that leeway. I did Bhagam Bhag because I wanted to work with Priyan. Secondly after Andaz it was my first lead with Akshay.

At the end of the day it was a massive learning experience with Paresh, Govinda and Akshay. But yes, I wish my character was utilized better. But I guess in an ensemble cast I got a fair share of space."

Remind her of her brief walk-on appearance in Kunal Kohli's Fanaa and she defends herself. "I had earlier said no to Kunal to a part in Hum Tum. I couldn't do that again without sounding arrogant.

And let's face it, it was a kind of initiation for me into the country's biggest banner Yashraj. It also gave me chance to share screen -space with two of my most favourite actors Aamir and Kajol. So why not?"

"Also," she clears her throat. "I've the clearly disadvantageous reputation of being an intelligent actress. That I couldn't fit into the airheaded parts was a bit of a hurdle. Also, I come from the glamorous industry (modeling).

For some strange reason, a part of the films industry feels you can't do the girl-nextdoor or take-home-to-mama roles if you're glamorous. That way I do feel limited.

I'm constantly offered glamorous prop-like roles. But that's changing. In Partner I was working opposite Salman and I didn't have the glamorous role."

Lara definitely sees the glamour thing as an impediment. "But I'm ready to wait for the bright and right parts. I didn't come into the industry to be a No.1, 2, 3. All it takes is hard work and I'm at it. I don't want to take the short cut of coat-tailing some big heroes to success.

When I walk out of the industry I want to be remembered as a good actress like Nutan and Smita Patil, not someone who was good at net-working. If I said no to a role it went to Bipasha.

If she said no it came to me. I don't want to do the interchangeable glam roles. I've made a conscious decision to stay away from them."

Then she gets briefly wistful. " I wish good-looking actresses had better-fleshed roles to perform and those did not just go to the Plain Janes."

Casting Ouch: Shilpa Vs Ash

'Pink Panther 2' casting has now become the hotly debated issue in Bollywood. Contrary to latest media reports, Aishwarya’s international agent Simone Sheffield says, "Ms Rai was the first and only choice to play Sophie in the Hollywood film Pink Panther 2."

The casting director Ilene Starger too endorses this fact by saying, "We did not offer the role to anyone other than Aishwarya. Period. Ash was the actress I envisioned when I read the script. Her intelligence, beauty and sophistication are just what the role requires. She fits in wonderfully with our fantastic ensemble cast, and all of us are thrilled to work with her.”

A couple of actresses claim to have refused the role Ash is starring in. It’s sad. If either of them had been offered a role in such a big budget international film, they’d have jumped at the opportunity instead of passing it up.”

Giving her side of story to SantaBanta, Simone says, "Please look at the original document received from Shilpa and you will see a standard letter signed by an office assistant and NOT by Ilene Starger."

"NO WHERE in the letter is there an offer for Shilpa to read, appear or even consider appearing in the film.....it is merely an invitation for Shilpa to submit a tape of herself. PERIOD.....this process is standard in the industry," she adds.

Last week, Ash shot for the film in Paris shooting alongside Steve Martin (who reprises his role as Inspector Jacques Clouseau) and Andy Garcia (Vincente) and has now returned to Mumbai to complete Ashutosh Gowariker’s Jodha Akbar and Ram Gopal Varma’s Sarkar Raj.

- SantaBanta.Com

Kareena and Shahid break up?

According to the latest buzz in Bollwywood, Shahid-Kareena relationship has hit a dead end and the reason behind it is none other than 'single' Saif Alik Khan, who reportedly did some serious damge to Bips-John love story as well.

The sources claim that it all happened on the sets of Yash Raj Films' Tashan in Ladakh and later, Jaisalmer where Saif and Kareena instantly got attracted to each other. This news comes close on the heels of rumours that her relationship with Shahid is on the rocks.

However,Shahid's close friend reveals that the actor is clueless about Saif’s closeness to Bebo as he’s in Canada shooting for Nagesh Kukunoor’s Tasveer.

But how serious is Saif about Kareena?

While Bebe has been in a relationship for a long time now, Saif seems to be in a mood to play games.So will this fling last is the million dollar question everyone is asking.

Kareena chose not to comment on the story but for more details, stay glued to this space.

Can Lara match Aishwarya's Paro?

After Aishwarya Rai and Madhuri Dixit, Lara Dutta and Soha Ali Khan have been chosen to play Paro and Chandramukhi in Sudhir Mishra's modern version of Devdas titled Aur Devdas.

While Soha is yet to sign on the dotted line, Lara has done the needful.

They will portray the two classic parts in Sudhir Mishra’s version of Devdas being produced by Pritish Nandy Communications. The film will be shot in September.

Mishra's Chandramukhi will not be a dancer. She'll be an investment banker. Paro evolves into a politician. The film will be a gritty political drama.

Says Lara, “I’m very excited. I’ve wanted to work with Sudhir Mishra for a long time. And now we’ve the perfect script.” Playing Paro after Aishwarya in Bhansali’s Devdas is just the challenge Lara was looking for.

Both Lara and Soha were not the first choices for their roles.

Earlier Rani Mukerji was approached to play Paro while for Chandramukhi's portrayal, the makers wanted Esha Deol. But she did not have the dates. Though she wanted to do this role and tried hard to adjust her dates, but could not work it out.

'I wanted none other than Aishwarya'

Refuting rumours about other Bollywood actors being offered a role in "Pink Panther 2", its casting director Ilene Starger said they only considered Aishwarya Rai.

"Most emphatically, we did not offer the role to anyone other than Aishwarya! Aishwarya was, when I first read the script, the actress I envisioned for the role," Starger told from Los Angeles in an e-mail interview.

Aishwarya shot for a day with Steve Martin and Andy Garcia in Paris Aug 20 for the film by Harold Zwart.

"Her intelligence, grace, beauty and sophistication are just what the role requires. And, of course, she has a touch of mystery too. She fits in wonderfully with our fantastic ensemble cast, and all of us involved with the film are thrilled to work with her."

Rumours had it that Celina Jaitley was offered the role first but rejected it. Also, Hrithik Roshan was asked to play detective Clouseau's assistant Vincent in part two of the comedy, but he too turned it down.

However, Aishwarya's international manager Simone Sheffield dismisses the reports.

Sheffield said: "Negotiations went on for a month to secure Aishwarya and her dates. The script is absolutely wonderful and the wardrobe is great.

"The film's costume designer Joe Aulisi has chosen some really hot items from Dolce & Gabbana. If any one of the actresses mentioned had really been offered this A-level role in such a big-budget international film, they would have jumped to join it and not have passed on the opportunity as they state, believe me.

"What I love about Aishwarya is that she just calmly continues along the path she has chosen, does her work, lives her life and never has a bad word to say about anyone."

Sheffield also has a lot to say about the actresses' absence at the unveiling of her statue at Times Square and for the promotion of her latest international film "The Last Legion".

"I see this trend happening more and more in the media with events falsely confirming Aishwarya's attendance to boost sales and media attention.

For one, Aishwarya was never confirmed to appear at the unveiling in New York City, nor did we confirm she was appearing on the late night talk show and a morning news programme during her brief visit to Los Angeles.

"She did, however, confirm she was appearing at India Splendor celebrating the 60th anniversary of India's Independence. When Aishwarya confirms an appearance, it is confirmed and she will without fail attend and always has.

"As for the promotions for 'The Last Legion', it is up to the producers and distributors of the film to make such arrangements and in this case numerous phone interviews with the international media took place over the past two months. There was nothing else requested of Aishwarya prior to the film's US release."

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