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Vidhu Chopra teams up again with Sanju

After the blockbuster 'Munna Bhai MBBS', filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra has teamed up yet again with Sanjay Dutt, this time for 'Parineeta - The Married Woman'. The film is an adaptation of a Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyaya's original classic, a love story about the difference in a man and woman's perception of love and commitment. 'Parineeta - The Married Woman' also stars Saif Ali Khan, Vidya Balan and Raima Sen. The movie has been shot in the hills of Darjeeling and Kolkata. Shooting has been completed in hectic 50 days, and the film is getting some finishing touches.

Sanjay Dutt


[ Last edited by  Gadis_Venus at 21-4-2006 11:44 PM ]

Shah Rukh performing yajna?

Super actor Shah Rukh Khan is performing a yagna. But for what is a million rupee question? Is he faced with ant problem? Usually people perform yajna only when they are confronted with some trouble or to achieve some unfulfilled desire. Shah Rukh has no such personal or family trouble. Oh yes, right. He is doing a film titled 'Yajna'. This is being produced and directed by Vidhu vinod Chopra. Chopra is lucky to sign SRK this time round as he had missed SRK in his earlier 'Mission Kashmir'.



[ Last edited by Gadis_Venus at 20-8-2005 11:50 PM ]

JOHN: BIPS IS EVERYTHING IN MY LIFE

John Abraham is a hero in real life. He is loyal to his girlfriend, the dusky Bipasha, even though their pair didn't go well of late with the audience. While their pair was widely acclaimed in 'Jism', it didn't fare that well in their last movie 'Aitraz'. Whether the moviegoers like it or not John Abraham has full faith in Bipasha. "How can I forget that I entered into films through her. She is everything for me. Whether we succeed as a pair in the reel life or not, we would certainly succeed in real life and would be seen together on any turning point of life."

John is aware that his success in 'Dhoom' has rewarded him several offers, but he would not touch them. He would prefer to sit idle and wait for films of his choice. He admits that his cherished dream of acting with Big B has been fulfilled in 'Aitraz', yet he looks forward to working more with him. One learns a lot from Amitabh at every step, he adds. John is very happy to work with Rani Mukherjee in 'Babul', and considers it a milestone in his filmi career.

John Abraham & Bipasha Basu


[ Last edited by  Gadis_Venus at 7-12-2006 02:00 PM ]

JOHN AND BIG B ALL SET TO FIGHT IN VIRUDH!

Mahesh Manjrekar, who hasn?t savoured success after the gut-churning 'Vaastav' is now all set to with its new venture 'Virudh'. The music of the movie was recently launched in Mumbai. The movie starrs promising actors like John Abraham, Amitabh Bachchan, Sharmila Tagore and debutant actress Anusha Dandekar. Manjrekar calls a movie a family entertainment and will have a mass appeal. After going all baddy, in "Dhoom," John Abraham will now be seen in a role of a sweet son to none other than the Big B. The actor simply loves the music of this film and looks forward to films release. The film addresses various issues of a common man's plight against the system it is about an ordinary 60-plus couple (Amitabh Bachchan and Sharmila Tagore) who, after the death of their only young son (John Abraham), are forced to search for their faith in human values and undergo the most testing struggle of their lives. Sanjay Dutt makes a special appearance in the film.

John Abraham


Amitabh Bachan


[ Last edited by Gadis_Venus at 26-8-2005 02:44 PM ]

Kareena Kapoor: The Seven Deadly Career Sins

YOU know, I wanted to be an actor from the time I was in my mother抯 womb,拻 the 24-year-old declares with childlike bravado. Classic Kareena Kapoor. But five years, 19 releases, one hit (Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham) and four average grossers (Mujhe Kucch Kehna Hai, Chameli, Aitraaz and Hulchul) after that dream came true, 2000抯 Next Big Hope is jobless and at home.
Of course, she still has more starry airs than Aishwarya Rai. While Rai lowered her price for Rituparno Ghosh抯 Raincoat and JP Dutta抯 Umrao Jaan, Kapoor doesn抰 budge for even a Yash Chopra or Karan Johar. 憫My mom also says that I抦 a star and that I抦 ziddi. I agree. But I抦 also special,拻 she laughs. We抮e on the sets of Satish Kaushik抯 Milenge Milenge and Kapoor wants to tuck a 択erchief to conceal her cleavage in a black beaded gown.
Till about a year ago, it was all going according to plan. KK had the best backers: Yash Raj Films, Mani Ratnam, Sooraj Barjatya, Karan Johar, Subhash Ghai. But the script went horribly wrong. 憫All the films flopped. What to do?拻 she shrugs.
Today, Kapoor has virtually no big banners. Of late, she抯 made more headlines for her personal life than her performances. While the MMS shocker with boyfriend Shahid Kapoor has been forgotten, Kapoor still spends more time with him than on script sessions. 憫She抯 more on the sets than me,拻 jokes a top actor who抯 co-starring with Shahid in a forthcoming film.
Trade pundits already predict it抯 pack-up time. But Kapoor has other plans. 憫No man can take my career away from me. I can sacrifice anything and anyone for success. I抦 going all out to get my due. Don抰 underestimate the fire within me.拻
We asked her to flag off her fresh start here.

1 Kareena Kapoor has made somedisastrous career choices
She said no to Priyanka Chopra抯 role in 2004抯 Aitraaz. The film catapulted Chopra to the top spot. She didn抰 wait for Sanjay Leela Bhansali抯 magnum opus Bajirao Mastani and signed Priyadarshan抯 Kyunki with Salman Khan. 憫I begged her not to sign a film with Salman. I wanted to introduce the pair in Bajirao Mastani but she just went ahead. Now I don抰 know what to do,拻 says Bhansali.
Kapoor says she doesn抰 follow any particular strategy. 憫I do what my heart dictates.拻 She stands by her decision to play the wife in Aitraaz. 憫I wanted a positive role because I was doing something negative in Fida. My fans loved me in Aitraaz.拻

About Bajirao Mastani, KK抯 standard reply to Bhansali is if Aishwarya and Shah Rukh Khan could play siblings in Josh and then be cast as lovers in Bhansali抯 Devdas, what抯 the problem? 憫Sanjay will make Bajirao Mastani with me and Salman. You wait and watch,拻 she says.

2 Kareena Kapoor is overexposed
Films like Talaash, Bewafaa, Jeena Sirf Mere Liye haven抰 done anything for her career. 憫These days actors are doing fewer films but Bebo likes to do many films and all kinds of films. That抯 her thinking,拻 opines Karan Johar.

Kapoor agrees that she抯 done some really bad movies. 憫People have forgotten that even Sridevi and Madhuri Dixit did some really bad movies. Today抯 heroines are getting their due because they抳e been here for nine to 10 years.拻 Kapoor says that she抯 learning on the job.

Coming Up
Priyadarshan抯 Kyunki with Salman Khan

Suneel Darshan抯 Dosti: Friends Forever with Akshay Kumar and Bobby Deol

Satish Kaushik抯 Milenge Milenge with Shahid Kapoor

Abbas Mustan抯 36 Chinatown with Shahid Kapoor

Priyadarshan抯 next with
Shahid Kapoor

Farhan Akhtar抯 Don
(special appearance) with Shah Rukh Khan

憫My sister (Karisma) has her own life and my mother (Babita) lets me be. I take my own decisions, sign my own deals. I can make mistakes,拻 she says. But she promises that she抯 becoming more conscientious. 憫Now, I抣l only do movies that are worthy of me. Otherwise I抣l sit at home. That抯 what I抳e been doing for six months and I can do it for another six months,拻 she laughs.

3 Kareena Kapoor does not compromise on her price
Her infamous exit from Kal Ho Naa Ho over money is one of Bollywood抯 biggest blunders. 憫Kareena charges anywhere between Rs 1.5 to 2 crore. That抯 a fact,拻 says trade analyst Amod Mehra.

憫I deserve what I get. I might do bad movies or flop movies but producers still pay me what I ask for.拻 She turns philosophical about the Kal Ho Naa Ho fiasco. 憫I regret the way I said no to Karan. I know I抣l work with him once more. If there is a choice between Karan and Shahid, I抣l opt for Karan and my boyfriend knows that,拻 she says.

4 Kareena Kapoor only wants to work with Shahid Kapoor
Though her pairing with Shahid got the thumbs down in Fida, Kapoor insists they are a perfect match. 憫We wanted Kareena for the role and then approached Shahid. That made her very happy,拻 says director Abbas, of the Abbas-Mustan duo, about the casting for their forthcoming 36 Chinatown.

Kapoor is categorical that her career is her top priority. She抯 even got it down to a mathematical formula. She and Shahid have decided to give 70 per cent of their attention to work and only 30 per cent to their love life.

憫People should stop examining my personal life under a microscope. How do they know that Shahid and me are into each other? I can sacrifice anyone for my career,拻 she says. The reason most of her upcoming releases are opposite Shahid is simply because, 憫all the other actresses are 30 years old and can抰 match him age-wise,拻 she grins.

Hit List

Vyjanthimala in Sangam: My grandfather, Raj Kapoor, etched her role to perfection. She was chulbuli and emotional
Nargis in Shree 420: It was a complete role
Karisma Kapoor in Dil To Pagal Hai: Such an honest character
Karisma Kapoor in Zubeida: I want to play a real character too
Kareena Kapoor in Yuva: Forget anyone else, I don抰 think even I could do it again

5 Kareena Kapoor doesn抰 belong to any camp
Shah Rukh Khan was quite fond of her after Asoka and K3G but has kept his distance since Kal Ho Naa Ho. She and Hrithik Roshan decided to stop working together after rumours of an affair began doing the rounds. 憫She抯 on her own. No big star is supporting her,拻 says Mehra.

Kapoor says she can抰 behave like other actresses. 憫I always ask Lolo (Karisma) if even I should jump on a big star and beg to work with him. I find it most disgusting.拻 Kareena hopes Farhan Akhtar抯 Don will improve her equation with SRK. 憫I have a special role in the film. SRK and I will rock together. Finally, the audience will see a fresh pair.拻

6 Kareena Kapoor has a serious attitude problem
She has had tiffs with Bobby Deol, Bipasha Basu and Preity Zinta. 憫Kareena only says hi to me when Karan is around. I don抰 hold any grudges against Kareena and wish her well. I don抰 have an ego and have no issues about going up to her and saying hello even if she doesn抰,拻 says Zinta.

Kapoor says she cannot be a hypocrite. 憫If I抦 having a bad day, I抦 having a bad day, and if you come in front of me, you抮e going to get it.拻 She maintains that she抯 a good human being and hasn抰 hurt anyone 憫intentionally拻.

7 Kareena Kapoor lacks the killer instinct
Unlike Zinta or Chopra, who are very conscious about the way they look, Kapoor likes to take it easy. 憫Kareena leaves everything to me. She抯 just not into clothes and make-up,拻 says designer Manish Malhotra.

Kapoor narrates how she fasted for three days to look her best in the introductory scene of Kunal Kohli抯 Mujhse Dosti Karoge. 憫I抣l fast and diet only when I really have to do it, for a movie that I believe in.拻 Kapoor also confesses that she goes through phases of frenetic shopping and bingeing.

憫I抦 very moody and just want to be happy. If I want something, I go for it. It can be a film, pizza or Shahid.拻

AKSHAY KUMAR AND RAVEENA TANDON'S 'VIDROH'

Producer Kulbhushan Gupta's 'Vidroh' "rebellion" is a hardcore action flick, just the type its hero Akshay Kumar likes to work on. Scripted by Dilip Shukla, who has to his credit films like 'Ghayal', 'Damini', 'Ghatak'and some others, this film marks his directorial debut. Shukla is confident of the film's appeal despite the time it has taken in the making.

The film was started with all good intentions. In fact, Akshay was so inspired by the subject when it was first narrated to him that he doled out dates by the dozen. But after the initial schedules, his attitude towards the film changed as he hit the big time. From then on, he played hard to get and this delayed the film inordinately. To make matters worse for the producer and director, Raveena Tandon, the heroine, broke off with Akshay and coordinating the dates of the two became a tough task.

Anyway, coming back to the film, according to Dilip, the subject of 'Vidroh' is as relevant as it was when the film was started. The film takes a close look at the nexus between crime and politics, and the police force, which is systematically caught between the two. There are some who go with the system, others who are caught in the web created by the nexus, and yet others who go all out to combat the system despite danger to life and limb.

The film throws a searching light on the youth of today, with the ambition to change the face of society, state, country, and the world, if possible. It is about the sheer power of youth on the right track. It is about youth and its power to change, to challenge, to bring about a change of mind.

A young man (Akshay) from a middle class family, driven by the ambition to do something worthy, joins the police force. It takes him very little time to realize the difference between his ambition and idealism (which is representative of the ambition and idealism of youth anywhere in the world) and the grim realities that govern and ruin lives. It does not take him long to recognize the forces of destruction and the need to revolt if the rot has to be stemmed. His corrupt seniors try their best to crush this one-man revolt. But he is too strong in his resolve to set things right. He knows the path is painful, but strikes where he feels he must strike without fear, to unmask the faces of terror and corruption.

Raveena Tandon plays the lady love while Amrish Puri, Raj Babbar, Mohan Joshi, Govind Namdeo, S.M. Zaheer and Ashalata also figure in the cast. Made under the K.B. Pictures banner, it has Pramod Pathak as the cinematographer. Anand-Milind have composed the music for the lyrics by Sameer. The film still has a few days work left before it is released.

Akshay Kumar


Raveena Tandon


[ Last edited by Gadis_Venus at 14-1-2006 04:29 PM ]

PROBABLY MY STARDOM IS BEING MISTAKEN FOR GREAT TALENT: KING KHAN

Shah Rukh Khan has come a long way from his television days. He is one of the few examples of self- made man in Bollywood. Of late, he's not been having a good time more on a personal level than the professional one. Shah Rukh's back problem has forced him to cut down on his work and other routines. Smashits.com caught up with the actor on the sets of his next home production 'Kal Ho Na Ho' at Mumbai Film City.

Do you think you can hold on your Number 1 position for long?

I am here to do a good job in any venture I take up and I would like to do it forever. I do not care how long I continue in whatever position as long as I enjoy my work. I have always enjoyed what I have done, the box-office fate of my films notwithstanding.

You are considered the last of the superstars, after Dilip Kumar, Rajesh Khanna and Amitabh Bachchan. What do you think goes into the making of a superstar?

I think it is wrong to compare me to the all-time greats. I can never reach their achievements. Probably, my stardom is being mistaken for great talent. This would be disrespect to them.

How do you feel when your movies fall flat at the box office? Does a flop count?

Movies like 'Duplicate', 'Badshah', 'Koyla', 'Dil Se' and 'Asoka' are among my best, but moviegoers did not agree. So, my best was not good enough. That induces me to improve. Today, I have a hit, the next five films might flop, but that does not discourage me from working with renewed vigor. The audience is like the crucial final exam. The result is not in my hands. If the outcome is bad, I don't hesitate to share my part of the responsibility, say, by waiving my fee. Anyway, after I complete a film, I simply forget about it.

How does your family react to your hits and flops?

Thankfully, my family is quite unattached to the fate of my films. They generally get to see them at the trial runs. At times I have to drag Gauri to see my films!

You have played practically every type of role. What's that you still feel you must do?

I have not played a terrorist yet. The issue is not what role I want to do, it's how good I can make it. I put myself in the hands of the director. If he thinks I should jump, I'll jump, if he wants me to cry, I'll cry. How good I jump and how effectively I cry is where my talent comes in. I would definitely like to take up issues like the increasing generation gap, the trauma of a family in which a person is suddenly afflicted by a life-threatening disease, brain drain... The challenge will be playing roles with which the ordinary citizen can identify.

Will you consider offers from Hollywood?

I am sure I will be rejected outright at the screen test. (Guffaws.) Some offers did come up in the past, but I did not find them as exciting as Hindi films.

Many people wonder 'after Shah Rukh, who?' Any suggestions?

Why, my son is there! (Laughs.)I am very focused about my work and my family. I have no time to think of mere aage kaun or mere peechhe kaun (who after me and who behind me). As far as number games go, numbers are always telephones, or jailbirds or unemployment queues; I am none of these.

With your kind of popularity, do you have any political ambitions?

I do not possess the qualities required to make a leader; I probably have mass appeal because I dance and sing Chhaiyya, chhaiyya on a train-top. Rajneeti mere bas ki baat nahin hai Politics is beyond me).

You are a great believer in God...?

Yes, I believe in Allah and the concept of jannat (heaven). Illness brings you closer to the Almighty; now I attempt to read namaaz as often as possible. Moreover, my kids must imbibe religious habits. In fact, they are good at reciting Hindu verses like Gayatri Mantra, which Gauri taught them when I was in hospital. I pray in a temple just as I would in a mosque. These are all different routes to a common destination.



[ Last edited by Gadis_Venus at 26-8-2005 02:06 PM ]

THE SHOW GOES ON FOR AMITABH BACHCHAN

"I'm Bachchan, Amitabh Bachchan." Perhaps this will be the punch line of Big B in the upcoming ad for Reid and Taylor, which has signed him as its brand ambassador after replacing 'James Bond' Pierce Brosnan. The boom time continues for the resurgent megastar, who recently signed Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Black'. Actors come and actors go, but Amitabh Bachchan stands apart, charming viewers with his charisma for decades.

How do you feel being the new brand ambassador for international suiting major?

I think one shouldn't see it as a replacement gambit as it is nothing to do with taking over from James Bond. Reid & Taylor was looking for an individual who could Indianise the brand and they found that I could hit their target destination. I see it as any other assignment. No doubt, it is a privilege and pleasure to be associated with Reid & Taylor.

Aren't they say that Bachchan was the only choice because of his mass appeal and when he talks India listens?

Did they? I am deeply honored. I hope that I can contribute in my own way to make the brand's vision of reaching out to Bharat a reality. I am extremely fond of wearing fine clothes. Suits, I believe, are a symbol of class and prestige.

Isn't that your dream of doing film with Sanjay Leela Bhansali has finally come true?

Yes, Sanjay's film 'Black' is a dream-come-true for me and I'm very excited. It's the kind of film I have never done before. It'll require me to do a lot of homework and hard work. We'll start work by the end of the year.

Your 12 films are on the floor and that too with a new breed of directors. How do you acclimatize yourself as an actor with people much younger?

I am fortunate to be working with people like Farhan Akthtar, Vikram Bhatt, Ravi Chopra and Kaizad Gustad. They have given me some wonderful moments on celluloid. I also observe that they do their homework and know how to extract work from an actor. I learn a lot from them in terms of their views and vision. At this age, the best part of life is you can get away with a lot of things, as people are more understanding.

Aren't you over-working?

No, I am not over-working. These are commitments I made and I have to abide by them.

Even after three-decades of an outstanding career, how come you say you still have a long way to go to reach the heights of your profession?

Yes, creatively I am not satisfied. So I think that there's a lot to be done on the silver screen. So long as there are people who want to work with me and offer me roles, I'll continue to work. I hope to entertain audiences for a long time to come.

How is it working with Hema Malini in 'Baghbaan' and in 'Boom' with Zeenat Aman after so many years?

Wonderful! They have not changed at all in their zeal. We have done many films in the past. I hope our reunion on the silver screen should work again.

What do you think is the reason behind the popularity of Hindi films?

The same question I had once asked my father, who told me that Hindi films do poetic justice in three hours as goodness is rewarded, villainy or wickedness is punished and the hero gets his heroine in the end.

Do you think that Indian cinema should change its basics to compete for the Oscar awards?

I don't think there's any need for our cinema to change its basic concept and identity to compete for the Oscar awards. Our films should not lose their flavor and individuality to compete with any international award. Good movies are always welcome everywhere.

Can we make good cinema the way Hollywood does?

Of course. Indian filmmakers always attempt to make good and powerful cinema but it falls flat commercially as the appreciation level here is not very high. Improvement in education level is necessary to raise the sense of appreciation of moviegoers. Once we have more educated audiences, better films will follow. We cater mainly to the Hindi speaking regions and the emphasis is on to make the venture commercially viable. Thus, the very idea of making a good movie disappears in between.

What was the objective of conducting the film awards function abroad?

The purpose was to send a message that Indian cinema has the potential to match the global standards. The Indians abroad want to be part of our cinema. These award functions help promote Hindi cinema among them, besides attracting huge TV audiences all over the world and highlighting the potential of our cinema.

Can you share something about the French honor?

The township of Deauville in Paris organised an Asian and Western film festival, which showed a retrospective of my films for the first time. 'Deewar', 'Sholay', 'Agneepath', 'Kabhi Kabhi' and 'Mohabattein' were screened to the French audience who were very much familiar about my work. Besides, I was made an Honorary Citizen of the town and presented with a medallion, an honor earlier bestowed on only two people -- Queen Elizabeth II of England and the Soviet space hero, Yuri Gagarin.

You have received favorable feedback over your duet with Adnan Sami and now you are singing with Abida Parveen in 'Baghbaan'. How do you rate yourself as singer?

I have never been much of a singer. But if people enjoy my voice, then I am privileged. I have already sung three songs for 'Baghbaan'. In one of them, Abida Parveen sings while I recite my dialogue.

Don't you feel relaxed after clearing 90 per cent of your debts?

It is true. A small amount is left, which will also be cleared soon. Though some people suggested that I declare myself bankrupt, I chose to work hard to redeem ABCL (now known as AB Corp). This is ready to launch two films. I will be starring in both the films, along with my son Abhishek.

BAJPAI ROPES IN SAHARA FOR NEW VENTURES

The versatile Manoj Bajpai has joined the new and yet growing league of actors-turned-producers by making a low-profile debut into production with two films. Interestingly, he makes a mark in this field by associating with corporate houses willing to invest in his innovative ideas. His two forthcoming films are Pankuj Parasher's Intequam starring himself, Ishaa Koppikar and Diya Mirza, and the Makarand Deshpande-directed 'Hanan'.

Without sounding like a brag, Manoj underlines the fact that he intends to revive meaningful cinema. "There is no big deal about turning producer. Every second actor is becoming one these days. I don't believe in bragging. Let my work speak for itself," says the actor. "I am not interested in making clear-cut comedies or a complete action films, but all my films will have a different flavor," he informs.

In an exclusive chat with Smashits, Bajpai narrates that he has tied up with Sahara to release 'Intequam' and 'Hanan'. Inviting other corporate houses to invest in his projects, he says, "I have six scripts ready with me and they are close to my heart. Hence, only like-minded investors are invited. In return, I assure that they will not be disappointed." His current two projects are already complete.

"The idea behind opting for newcomers is that they tend to be confident and always come up with fresh ideas," he reasons. Interestingly, most of the actors, with Aamir Khan as a glaring exception, have ended up as unsuccessful producers. But that is no deterrent to Bajpai. "It has nothing to do with actors turning producers. If you have made a good film, it is bound to click. No one can stop it from doing well." The dynamic artist however doesn't want to take a shot at direction ever. "I don't think I am prepared for direction. It is too big a job for me."

Here is a list of actors-producers and the films they have made

Guru Dutt - Pyaasa, Kaagaz Ke Phool, Sahib Biwi Aur Ghulam, Chaudhvin Ka Chand, Mr and Mrs 55
Raj Kapoor - Aag, Aan, Shri 420, Jis Desh Mein Ganga Behti Hai, Premrog, Ram Teri Ganga Maili Hogayee, Bobby, Mera Naam Joker
Jeetendra - Deedar-E-Yaar
Dharmendra - Betaab, Ghayal, Dillagi, Barsaat, 23rd March 1931: Shaheed
Vinod Khanna - Himalayputra
Feroz Khan - Jaanbaaz, Dharmatma, Qurbani Yalgaar, Dayavan, Prem Aggan
Shashi Kapoor - Kalyug, Ajooba, Utsav, Vijeyta, Junoon, 36 Chowringee Lane
Sanjay Dutt - Kaante
Manoj Kumar - Purab Aur Paschim, Kranti, Roti Kapada Aur Makan, Upkaar, Shor, Shaheed Clerk, Yaadgar, Kalyug Ki Ramayan
Dev Anand - Hare Rama Hare Krishna, Guide Tere Mere Sapne, Prem Pujari, Hum Navjawan Hai, Awwal Number, Satya Ka Bolbala, Main Sola Baras Ki, Censor
Rajendra Kumar - Love Story, Naam
Vinod Mehra - Gurudev
Sunil Dutt - Yeh Aag Kab Bujegi, Dard ka Rishta, Rocky, Nehle Pe Dehla, Man Ka Meet, Reshma Aur Shera
Rakesh Roshan - Kudgarz, Khoon Bhari Maang, Kishen Kanhaiya, Kaamchor, Kaho Naa? Pyar Hai? Karan Arjun, King Uncle, Koyla, Jaag Utha Insaan
Amitabh Bachchan - Tere Mere Sapne, Saat Rang Ke Sapne, Major Saab
Ajay Devgan - Raju Chacha, Dil Kya Kare, Hindustan Ki Kasam
Jackie Shroff - Grahan, Jis Desh Mein Ganga Rehta Hai
Shah Rukh Khan and Juhi Chawla - Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani, Asoka, Chalte Chalte
Aamir Khan - Lagaan
Milind Soman - Rules - Pyaar ka Superhit Formula

ANTARA MALI MADHURI DIXIT BANANA CHAHATI HOON

When it comes to looks, Antara Mali is certainly not Aishwarya Rai or Madhuri Dixit, for that matter. But her sweet, next-door-girl looks have not stopped her from achieving stardom in competitive Bollywood. The daughter of popular lens man Jagdish Mali began her filmi career with a completely non-descript film called 'Dhhondte Reh Jaaoge', a venture even an actor like Naseeruddin Shah could not redeem from doom. That was years ago. Born on June 13, Antara is a college dropout who, if her father had his way, would have become an Indian Administrative Service officer. But she had better ideas - joining Bollywood. Once she had portfolio done by her father, her comfort levels behind the camera were more than obvious. She is now looking forward to her next release, 'Main Madhuri Dixit Banana Chahati Hoon'.

How excited are you about 'Main Madhuri Dixit Banna Chahti Hoon'?

As with all my releases, I'm excited and anxious about it because I've given it my heart and soul. It's a film with just the right tinge of pain, angst and humor. I play Chutki, the main protagonist who's dying to make it big in cinema. To a large extent, I could identify with it because films have been my dream since childhood, and Madhuri Dixit, has been my favorite. So to see your real-life aspirations getting translated on celluloid are indeed great. As an actor, 'Main Madhuri Dixit...' has been a professionally and creatively satisfying experience, I mean, how many actresses today can boast of playing an out-and-out female-oriented role in their sixth film?

What else did you enjoy about it?

It was such a relief not having to monitor the pancakes, hair strands and outfits for a change. For most of the film, I'm quite earthy and de-glam. And for those who don't like me, sorry but this one has me, more me, and lots more me!

Isn't it quite an opposite of your role in 'Road'?

Yeah, quite so. 'Road' was an unconventional subject with the conventional ingredients. I'm not saying I don't like looking all made up and dolled up in front of the camera, but to me, both life and cinema mean much, much more than that. If you've noticed, besides 'Khiladi 420' and 'Road', I've never made a conscious attempt to look glamorous in any of my releases like 'Company', 'Mast' or 'Darna Mana Hai'. For me, it's also about being able to essay diverse roles that extract the last drop of sweat.

How did you feel on getting nominated for 'Company'?

It's always nice to bag recognition for your performance. I thought Kanno was a brilliantly etched out character. She was a real woman of substance - she knew exactly where her man was going, and yet, she'd give or take life to save him.

We hear that Vivek Oberoi and you didn't share great vibes?

Vivek and I have done two films together - we've known each other for a while and have worked well as two professional actors. Our pairing on screen was appreciated, and at the end of the day, that's what matters.

Why did you decide to be a part of the huge cast of 'Darna Mana Hai'?

I'll like to be a part of, and encourage unconventional cinema. 'Darna Mana Hai' has a number of plots culminating in a single ending. The concept's never really been explored on celluloid before and I was keen to be a part of it. I think we managed a fine assembly in terms of a cast, and everyone came, did his or her bit and went away. I'm with Sohail and he was sweet to work with.

Which are some of your other films?

I'll tell you three are confirmed, and two more are under negotiation. Let's not talk about them now. As a policy, even though I am shooting for my next film, I don't speak about it till it's over. While I respect the media to the fullest, I'm not in favor of being in the media for the heck of it. I'd rather talk about my films when they're close to releasing.

Is it true that Kareena Kapoor has replaced you in 'Chameli'?

I'm not doing 'Chameli' purely because of date hassles.

We hear you're doing 'Gaayab' with Tusshar Kapoor?

Yes, I am! But I'm not saying anything more about my forthcoming films at this stage.

What is Antara Mali's thought for food?

I have consciously turned vegetarian. I am even trying to give up eggs; I want to be completely off animal products. Vegetarian food is so much better for your system, you feel so much lighter. During my non-vegetarian days I was fond of pomfrets and shrimps. I was never a big meat eater. I loved seafood. Among vegetables I love bhindi (ladyfinger) and potatoes. I want to have potatoes in everything, even dal (lentil). When I am abroad, it becomes very difficult to find a proper vegetarian meal. Fruits, however, are in there in abundance. There are plenty of restaurants, which serve exotic vegetarian food but I miss home cooked food.

What is your favorite cuisine?

My favorite cuisine is typical Maharashtrian food - dal chawal, toop and batate ki bhaji. I love Rajasthani and Gujarati food, especially dal dhokli, methi theplas and farsan. I also enjoy Italian and Thai food.

And your favorite beverage?

I am a chai person (tea drinker). I am not fond of coffee or aerated drinks. I begin my day with water. After attending my yoga classes, I return and have lots of water. I have at least one fruit because it's good for the system. I follow it with a cup of tea. Lemon tea in the evenings and a mug of milk ka chai with adrak and lots of sugar in the morning. During winters, if I am abroad, I have a lot of coffee, as their tea is atrocious. I miss my desi chai. While abroad, I just thrive on bread and coffee.

Antara Mali


Madhuri Dixit


[ Last edited by Gadis_Venus at 28-10-2005 09:29 PM ]

Urmila is no longer glamorous

Urmila Matondkar has been known as a glamorous actress for long. However, she has shed her past image now. She has been doing serious roles nowadays. Whether her fans would like it or not is yet to be seen. She is doing non-glamorous roles. After 'Bhoot' that was based on super natural power, she is excited these days with the new role in her forthcoming film 'Naina'. This movie is based on supernatural power too. Her another film is Pankaj Parashar's 'Banaras' based on spirituality. This all means that a yesteryears' glamorous girl will be noticed in the opposite roles now. Let's keep our fingers crossed till her movies are released.

Amisha's new love is Singh's Ghazal

Amisha Patel is a very big fan of ghazals, especially those sung by the king of Ghazals, Jagjit Singh. She can go anywhere at anytime to Singh's concerts. She says that she gets totally absorbed in his music. Now her love Vikram Bhatt has a very good formula to please his ladylove that is giving her a 'Singh- song', because he knows the music that really turns on Amisha Patel is the Singh's ghazal.

Amisha Patel


[ Last edited by Gadis_Venus at 13-1-2006 10:22 PM ]

Amitabh got 450 million

Super star Amitabh Bachchan is very happy and excited these days. First, this year has begun well for him. His recently hit Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Black' has got him wide acclaim for his acting. Last year was not so good for Amitabh. He had maximum number of flop films during the previous year. So, he decided to concentrate on some choosy films. Besides, he has recently signed two films of top filmmakers -- Yash Chopra and Ram Gopal Varma. Moreover, he is finishing his incomplete movies. He has announced that he would not participate in any film's shooting from May 1st to 30th as he has allotted these 30 days to complete the part-2 of 'Kaun Banega Carorepati'. This serial is going to fetch him a huge sum of Rs 450 million, meaning Rs 15 million a day! Very good indeed.

ANIL'S REHEARSALS ANNOY CO-STARS

Anil Kapoor is an old hand in acting. He is a very hard working and conscientious professional, who would not leave a shot unless it's perfect. However, this may not be so in the case of present day actors, who would like to end a shot as early as possible. That's why Anil takes a lot of pain in preparing himself for any character / role. This is a good habit, but becomes cumbersome for co-stars. Anil's recently released 'Bewafaa' with Akshay Kumar is a point in this case. During the shooting of this film, Anil repeated his old habit of reherasals. Recently, two women producers-- Vibha and Ragini -- offered a role to Akshay with Anil Kapoor in their forthcoming film 'Chocolate'.

But Akshay opted out of this by pretending the dates problem. The fact is otherwise. Akshay is very much annoyed with Anil's sticking for perfection. Later, Ragini signed Suniel Shetty for this role though with Anil Kapoor. Then Suniel also tried to avoid working with Anil. When film director Vivek Agnihotri made a long shooting schedule for London, Suniel refused to go there on the plea that he is unwell. Then, Vivek solved this case with the help of his friend Bhushan Kumar Dua, the owner of T-Series. Interestingly, all the three -- Suniel, Bhushan and Anil are very good friends. Now, the problem has been solved and Suniel has proceeded to London with his unit and Anil Kapoor, of course.

Bobby & Kareena together again

After a dispute on the set of producer Ratan Jain's 'Ajnabi', Bobby Deol and Kareena Kapoor had announced that they would never act together in future. However, both the stars are coming together in Sunil Dharshan's forthcoming movie 'Dosti'. According to the sources close to the stars, Akshay Kumar and Twinkle Khanna, who are very close to Kareena, organized a lunch party for Kareena and Bobby. After the lunch, Kareena and Bobby signed Sunil Dharshan's 'Dosti'. This is to recall that Bobby and Kareena are doing this movie after four years. May god bless the reel pair!

Bobby Deol


Kareena Kapoor


[ Last edited by Gadis_Venus at 14-1-2006 04:31 PM ]

Suneil turns investment adviser

Actor-cum-producer Suneil Shetty has turned an investment adviser. He is busy these days in advising business houses on their investment plans. Very recently, a liquor baron invested money in Suneil Shetty's home production though the movie flopped later in spite of several top stars cast in it. Despite this, Suneil has a number of offers from several film producers to guide them in film ventures. All such business houses however insist that Suniel should act in their movies.

John in Karan Johar's next

After the success of 'Dhoom' John Abraham was very upset with the Chopra camp because the latter replaced him with Hrithik Roshan in their next project 'Dhoom - Part 2'. After looking his performance in 'Dhoom', Karan Johar had decided to sign the star for his next film 'Kabhi Alwida Na Kehna' opposite super star Shah Rukh Khan. John got this news from Karan's office during his shoot in Mumbai. After finishing the shoot, he went straight to Karan's home to confirm the news. Now, John is in a party mood to celebrate this news.

John Abraham


Karan Johar


[ Last edited by Gadis_Venus at 28-10-2005 09:34 PM ]

'Maine Kyon Pyaar Kiya?' says Sallu

Salman Khan known for his long list girlfriends was recently heard saying ' Maine Pyaar Kyon Kiya?' This surprised those who were closely following him. They wondered if Salman Khan was feeling weary of Katrina Khan too? However, sources close to Sallu confirm that he has been repeating it too often these days. Yes, it's true. But one needs to know that he has been doing it in the reel, and not in real life. After all he is acting in the film titled 'Maine Kyon Pyaar Kiya?'



[ Last edited by  Gadis_Venus at 30-8-2006 12:47 PM ]

AISHWARYA TAKES REVENGE ON AAMIR

Aamir Khan is known as a star whom people call a perfectionist. That's why he keeps the entire newcomer directors under his thumb. For example, Aamir saw to it that Ahsutosh Gowarikar, the director of 'Lagan', dances to his tune. Similarly, Farhan Akhtar of 'Dil Chahata Hai' did what Amir wanted him to do. The same thing happened in the case of '1857 The Rising'. When actress Aishwarya didn't bow down to the dictates of Aamir, she was removed from the film at the instance of Aamir and got replaced by Aamir's dearest Amisha Patel.

The replacement of Aish by Amisha affected the future prospects of the movie. The producer and the director were aware of it but couldn't help. Besides, Aamir interfered in the editing of the movie. Now, was the turn of Aish. Though she has signed Rakesh Mehra's 'Rang De Basanti', yet she has given a shock by declining it. This sudden decision of Aish has shocked Mehra. Aish has stated that she is unable to give dates, as she is busy with a foreign movie. However, industry circles say that the reason is simple. Aish wants to take a revenge on Aamir, who had been responsible for Aish's ouster from 'The Rising'.

Aishwarya Rai


Aamir Khan


[ Last edited by  Gadis_Venus at 27-4-2006 09:24 PM ]

Pak invites Aishwarya to kickstart polio immunisation drive

ISLAMABAD: Notwithstanding its ban on Indian films, the Pakistan government plans to cash in on the Aishwarya Rai抯 tremendous popularity here by inviting her to kick-start the next round of the country抯 polio immunisation campaign. Federal Health Minister Mohammad Nasir Khan said the event would boost confidence-building efforts between the two countries.