gossip artis HOLLYWOOD~BOLLYWOOD~MALAYWOOD

'Chocolate' pair of Sushma and Anil

When Anil Kapoor was working with Sameera Reddy in 'Musafir', their relationship became a talk of the tinsel world. Though Anil Kapoor denied it, but the fact remained that he was talking Sameera-Sameera everywhere. Now, the hot news is that Sameera Reddy's little sister Sushma Reddy has come too close to Anil. Incidentally, Anil Kapoor and Sushma Reddy are coming together in a film 'Chocolate'.

Sameera Reddy


Anil Kapoor


[ Last edited by  Gadis_Venus at 21-4-2006 11:55 PM ]

Aish replaces Rani in Chopra camp?

Rani Mukherjee who has been a favorite of the Yash Chopra camp for a long time in his movies like 'Mujh Se Dosti Karoge' and 'Hum Tum', is afraid she might lose her status in the Chopra camp with her replacement by Aishwarya Rai. Incidentally, Aishwarya who has done 'Mohabbaten' for this camp, is now doing an item song in 'Bunty and Bubly' besides doing a negative role in 'Dhoom-2'. Aishwarya wants to keep in touch with this camp by doing any role. This would obviously affect Rani's image with the Chopras.

Aishwarya Rai


Rani Mukherjee


[ Last edited by  Gadis_Venus at 7-12-2006 02:06 PM ]

Will SRK boycott Sansui awards?

Though Shah Rukh Khan is brand ambassador of Sansui, he has decided to boycott this year's Sansui award function if Pritish Nandy attends it. The reason is that his wife Gauri and friend Karan Johar are upset because of Pritish Nandy Communications' ill treatment to them at the premiere of Pritish Nandy's film 'Shabd'. Karan Johar and Gauri arrived at this program with Sanjay Dutt's friend Sharmila Khanna, but Pritish Nandy's daughter Ranjeeta ignored both Karan and Gauri; nobody received them there. Karan and Gauri felt insulted. The Johar group also claims that Ranjeeta threatened Karan that they would not start the show until he is there. This enraged Shah Rukh so much that he decided to boycott it.



[ Last edited by  Gadis_Venus at 30-8-2006 02:28 PM ]

SRK ADJUDGED BEST ACTOR, RANI BEST ACTRESS

Millions of Hindi movie watchers' heartthrob Rekha presented the best actor award to Shah Rukh Khan, and quoted a couplet on love. She also said that there is a commonality between her and the Filmfare awards inasmuch as both entered their fifth decade. Saif Ali Khan emceed the show along with Sonali Bendre and Farida Jalal.

This is to recall that Saif and his Shah Rukh Khan had brought the house down with their wicked swipes at Bollywood celebrities only last year. While SRK was missing on stage this year, the audience cracked up repeatedly as Saif lampooned his colleagues. The performances kicked off with an antheme-composed specially for Filmfare's golden jubilee by Sankar-Ehsaan- Loy and sung by 'Indian Idol' finalists Abhijeet Sawant and Amit Sana.

Sonu Nigam charmed the audience with a 25-piece band, which accompanied him to a medley of songs from the '40s to the present era. This was indeed a unique feature. Beginning with the soulful 'Babul mora' and ending with his own qawwali from 'Main Hoon Na' Night spanned both decades and genders, adding a touch of mimicry and bringing the house down.

If Sonu was the voice of the past, Rani Mukherji and Priyanaka Chopra were its twinkle toes. Rani danced to a medley of hits from 'Hothon pe aisi baat' to 'Choli ke peeche' while Priyanka Chopra sizzled to sultry dance numbers from the '70s and 80s such as ''Yeh mera dil pyar ka diwana' from Don. Shah Rukh Khan gave a leg to popular tunes from the '60s onwards.

SRK was accompanied by the original leading ladies themselves - from a yesteryears' most charming Vyjanthimala to Sharmila Tagore and the sultry Zeenat Aman, Jaya Prada and Rekha, down to Kajol, Rani and Preity Zinta. As Khan serenaded each actress, the audience went wild. Amitabh Bachchan and the chief minister felicitated Lata Mangeshkar, Dilip Kumar and veteran composer Naushad, the first winners of the Filmfare awards in their respective categories.

Farhan Akhtar and Ashutosh Gowarikar gave away another special award to Ramesh Sippy whose 'Sholay' was adjudged the best film of the past 50 years. The Lifetime Achievement Award went to an actor who was discovered 40 years ago in a Filmfare-United Producer contest. This was Rajesh Khanna who became a rage after his first hit 'Aradhana'. It was mentioned that girls had sent him letters written in blood. The word 'superstar' was coined for him. Khanna mania prevailed until the superstar was unseated by Amitabh Bachchan. Khanna, in flowing white kurta-pyjama, accepted the award with customary 'shairana andaz'. An audiovisual tribute against the haunting background melody of 'Bicchede sabhi bari bari' from Pyaasa was paid to those from the cinema fraternity who had passed away in the previous year - Vijay Anand, Gulshan Rai, Yash Johar, Mehmood, Nirupa Roy, Parveen Babi, Amrish Puri and Laxmikant Berde.

Awards:

Shah Rukh Khan - Best Actor for 'Swades'
Rani Mukherjee - Best Actress for 'Hum Tum'
Abhishek Bachchan - Best supporting Actor for 'Yuva'
Rani Mukherjee - Best supporting Actress for 'Yuva'
Saif Ali Khan - Best comic actor 'Hum Tum'
Priyanka Chopra - Best Villainous actresss
Kunal Ganjawala - Best Playback (Male) 'Murder' Bheege Hoth Tere...
Alka Yagnik - Best Playback (female) 'Hum Tum' Sason Ko...
Anu Mallik - Best Music Director 'Main Hoon Na'
Javed Akhtar - Best Lyrics 'Veer Zaara' Tere Liye
Shah Rukh Khan - The Filmfare Power Award
Rajesh Khanna - Lifetime Achievement Award
'Sholay' - Best Film of 50 Years

Shah Rukh Khan


Rani Mukherjee


[ Last edited by Gadis_Venus at 11-9-2005 11:00 PM ]

No love in Diya's life

Dia Mirza seems to be a loser, both in her filmi career as well as her personal life. While she has improved a lot in her profession during the recent past, she failed miserably on the love front as most of the names attached to her name have ditched her. That's why she has stopped taking these things seriously. About her personal life, she says in a serious mood, "I loved Bunty from my heart but he cheated me. Now, I don't want to fall in love with anybody."

Ayesha is ready to be producer

Ayesha Julka has been waiting for long for her 'Socha Na Tha'. She says, "My character in 'Socha Naa Tha' is very important. I'm a sort of a bridge between Abhay Deol and Ayesha Takia in regard to their relationship. Julka has played lead roles in many hit films. But she is keen to become a producer now on the suggestion of her friends and well-wishers. She is prepared to make a film on her husband's script, and has launched a film production company named ' Tanisha Productions'. When asked about her husband's script, she said it's very strong and interesting. It's a love story, she adds.

Why Rampal quit Rakesh's movie

Why has Arjun Rampal quit Rakesh Mehra's 'Paint it Yellow'? But we hear that giving up the prestigious role wasn't as harrowing Arjun explains this in his own way. "With jaundice in the air and turning yellow being the order of the day, I didn't want to look like the rest of them. So I'm not doing the movie!"

Arjun Rampal


[ Last edited by  Gadis_Venus at 30-8-2006 02:30 PM ]

SHAH RUKH TO ACT AS GHOST

Shah Rukh Khan is very excited on the success of his last year's release 'Mai Hoon Na'. While as an actor he got a lot of successes, as a producer this was his first success. Encouraged with this, Shah Rukh has declared that Amol Palekar will direct his company's next film, and Rani Mukherjee will be his co-star. The script of this film is very different and Shah Rukh will be seen playing a double role, including that of a ghost. The film is totally based on rural background. The second film of Shah Rukh's company will be directed by Farah Khan, who started her career with 'Main Hoon Na'.

Shah Rukh Khan has recently signed another film made under the banner of Dharma Production. Karan Johar will direct this. The shooting will start this month. Most significantly, it is being said that Aishwarya will be cast opposite Shah Rukh in this movie. We may recall that two years ago Shah Rukh had vowed that he would not work with Aishwarya Rai. This had happened after Salman created a scene during the shoot of a movie starring SRK and Aish. But Karan has now persuaded SRK to work with Aishwarya. This proves the strong friendship between Karan and Shah Rukh.

SANJAY DUTT'S MYSTERIOUS PERSONALITY

Sanjay Dutt's has been a mysterious personality. He is not what he looks like. He is quite opposite to it. He has been acting as a don in the film industry for quite a long time. Even though he acts as a Bhai in films, he is just opposite that in the real life. But still he says, "Nayak nahin khalnayak hoon main. Zulmi bada dukhdayak hoon main (I am not a hero. I am a villain. I am a cruel man, troubling others."

He began his career with a big fight with the then super star Rajesh Khanna for the sake of Tina Muneem (now the wife of Reliance 's younger owner) as Sanjay loved her. He resorted to firing at a party to exhibit his love for Bollywood actress Rati Agnihotri. Besides these things, he hurt his father by consuming smacks.

He was placed in jail under TADA for his alleged involvement in Mumbai bomb blasts and for being in an illegal possession of an AK 56 rifle. Apart from this, he has a soft heart too. He acted in Suniel Shetty's 'Rakth' for free. So many people look at him as a good person. There are many other examples of his greatness. But his family life has been miserable. After being frustrated in his love with Tina Muneem, he married with Richa Sharma.

But soon the reports started pouring in that he had started teasing Richa, who left for New York never to return to India. However, Sanjay looked after her during Richa's illness from cancer. Thus Sanjay won every body's heart. But he changed again. Sanjay is allegedly involved now with an Afghan girl named Nadia. This amounts to cheating his wife Riya. It is said that Sanjay missed his daughter Trishala's 16th birthday party for the sake of his new love. His daughter is studying in New York and is very upset with papa Sanjay Dutt. Riya, her parents as well as Sanjay's daughter have now decided to star away from Sanjay Dutt.



[ Last edited by Gadis_Venus at 11-9-2005 10:55 PM ]

SUCCESS SITS LIGHTLY ON THE THALAIVAR!

A bit of a recluse, Rajni may be. But everyone who抯 had the privelege of a darshan with the thalaivar has come away with a spring in his step and a warm glow in the heart. Warm, friendly and affable, he抯 the sort who deserves all the superstardom he抯 earned. Such men, indeed, are rare.It抯 been 25 years, believe it or not, since the Periya Thalaivar (big boss) made his debut with an inconsequential role in a Tamil film. From villain and antihero to blockbuster supernova, the gifted actor has made the most of every outing. And he抯 deserved every bit of the success. SCREEN analyses why.
It's a wide angle shot. A man is seen opening a gate, dressed in rags and smoking a beedi. A terminally ill disease writ large on his face. Precisely on that frame appears the Sanskrit term shruthi bedham, coupled with an off screen voice, an undoubtedly inauspicious start to any debutante抯 first screen appearance, especially in the maiden frame. The film was Apoorva Raagangal (1975). The film itself was thick in controversy, and nobody took notice of the young newcomer, who was on screen barely for fifteen minutes, muttered a few apologetic words to the wronged woman and ultimately died an unsung, unheroic death.No one in the audience, even in his wildest imagination, would have thought this nondescript man, who had won the least attention in the film would ever win over millions of hearts in Tamil Nadu. Or ride the state like a colossus. Or even that his sway over the masses would be so intense that he could rewrite the fate of Tamil Nadu politics, exactly two decades after the release of his first film.K Balachander, the director who has an uncanny knack of creating stars, first met Rajnikant at the film institute, where he was a student. Balachander glanced at the dark young man and crisply asked him to meet him in his office the next day. When Rajnikant walked into his office gingerly, Balachander informed him he was going to act in his next film. Overwhelmed by the sudden offer from a 慴ig

Is Urmila marrying soon?

Urmila Matondkar has again asserted that she doesn't believe in advance planning. She is ready to meet any situation as and one it arises. Is she going to marry soon? Will she work in films after her marriage? These issues are being talked in the industry. However, Urmila is quite clear in her mind. She says she has never planned anything in her life. She doesn't know what would happen after her marriage? " I cannot tell you now. This depends on the situation at that time," she adds. She will cross the bridge when it comes. She is now banking very much on her performance in Anupam Kher's ' Maine Gandhi Ko Nahin Maara' that she describes as an excellent movie. Besides, she is acting in Pankaj Parashar's 'Banares'.

Tanisha-Uday lip locking

Tanisha, younger sister of Kajol and sister-in-law of Ajay Devgan, will now be seen in a series of lip locking scenes picturised on Uday Chopra of the 'Dhoom' fame. After the success of its 'Bunty Aur Babli', Yashraj Films is bringing its sequel titled 'Neel Aur Nikki'. The shooting of the movie is going to start any time. The film circles wonder if the kissing spree will repeat or excel that of Mallika Sherawat and Imraan Hashmi in their 'Murder'. But the kissing scenes are not new for Tanisha. She says she has had it earlier in 'ss?' with Dino Morea and in 'Tango Charlie' with Bobby Deol. Anyway, Uday Chopra is looking forward to kissing Tanisha as many times as he wishes in his home production.

Tanisha


Uday Chopra


[ Last edited by  Gadis_Venus at 7-12-2006 02:09 PM ]

Esha Deol slaps a boy

Esha Deol isn't far behind her father Dharmendra and her brother Sunny Deol in teaching a lesson to her villains in reel as well as real life. At the recent premiere of her movie 'Dus' at Pune, the young and pretty actress gave a befitting reply to her detractor who tried to hold her arm. Esha slapped the boy with such a force that he fell about a feet away from her. She told the media later that she had learnt the art of self-defense at the Barbarian Power Gym. Besides, she has now turned more active and energetic apart from becoming slimmer. We wonder if the young boy had seen her recent movies like 'Dhoom' and 'Kaal'. These movies had showed her fighting skill. This is not all. She is shaping up well in her filmi career too.



[ Last edited by Gadis_Venus at 19-9-2005 04:17 PM ]

'MUJHE KUCH KEHNA HAI' GIRL HAS HER SAY!

Kareena Kapoor is biting her nails these days in anticipation of the release of her second film, 'Mujhe Kuch Kehna Hai' on 25th May. She made her debut last year with none other than Abhishek Bachchan in 'Refugee'. This film may have flopped, but Kareena's role in it was appreciated. Here, she talks to Smashits about her plans and career.

Why this big gap between your debut film and 'Mujhe Kuchch Kehna Hai'?

Let me make this clear that it was not a calculated move. It just happened that no other film could start before 'Refugee' was released.

Can you still afford to say that acting is not your profession but just a hobby?

Who said this? I am not here just to pass time. I am dead sure about what I am doing. Nobody sweats for his or her hobby. Acting is my passion and this will be very clear from my performances. I would like to make it clear that I have rejected many offers, because at present I cannot afford to do the kind of roles that are carved out for heroines in, say, David Dhawan's films.

What about all the controversies? First, you dropped out from Hrithik's debut film, 'Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai'. Then you refused to work with David Dhawan, and the last one heard was you had refused to work with Salman Khan and Govinda?

I think I have already aired my views as far as David Dhawan is concerned. I am not going to do a typical David Dhawan film. But this talk of not working with Salman and Govinda is not true. I am always very eager to work with them. It is these actors who might have certain reservations about acting with me, as I might be very young in comparison to them. As for Hrithik, he is one of the most happening actors of today. I am doing four films with him, including 'Yadein'.

Which are the other films lined up and what are your roles in them?

'Yadein' is directed by Subhas Ghai and in it I play daughter to Jackie Shroff. Then there is this fantastic film with Hrithik, 'Kabhi Khusi Kabhi Gam', directed by Karan Johar. We have just finished shooting this film, which is all about life in a joint family. 'Ajnabee' is with Abbas-Mastan, and in it I am paired with Bobby Deol. Akshay Kumar and Bipasha are other stars in this film. Suraj Barjatya is directing me in 'Main Prem Ki Diwani Hoon'. Then I have Sohail Khan's 'Aryan' as well as a film by Ketan Desai.

What about 'Asoka' with Shahrukh Khan?

Oh! How I could I forget that. It is very close to my heart because I have found a real friend and guide in Shahrukh while doing this film. He is just marvelous. I rate him as the most talented actor among the contemporary artistes.

Do you agree to the view that most directors were waiting to see how you fared in 'Refuge' before signing you on?

"What's wrong with that? If a person is investing crores of rupees in a project, he has every right to ensure that his money doesn't go down the drain. I have never held this against any producer or director. However, there are people like Subhash Ghai who have full faith in my acting capabilities.

I HAVE A DREAM, I HAVE AN AIR-CONDITIONED DREAM

Everyone has a dream. And everyone works hard in life, in pursuit of fulfilling it. Sushmita Sen once dreamt of being crowned as the most beautiful woman in the world. God fulfilled her dream with a bonus. She became Miss Universe. Now she is aspiring to own a luxurious bungalow in one of the world's most beautiful and costliest places-Miami--and also own a 12-seater limousine. But she is confident that this will come to pass one day. Amazing confidence isn't it? But then, it was this very confidence that fetched her the Miss Universe title.

"As a teenager I just wanted to be famous. I can recall the time when Rakesh Sharma went into space and spoke to Mrs. Indira Gandhi, and said that from up there, India seemed "saare jahan se achcha". That just stayed with me for very long. I knew then that I wanted to do my country proud too. I didn't know what it would take. I'd go to space if I had to do.

"Miss India happened accidentally. I was dancing in a nightclub and some gentleman came up to me and said that I should participate in the Miss India contest. I got worried and told my friends to keep him away from me, but when he gave me his card, I saw that he was Ranjan Bakshi from The Times of India. The next day I was in their office, and the rest is history."

Her dreams of getting worldwide acclaim were realized when she was chosen Miss Universe. Later, she got busy with films. Her career as an actress started with a bang, but initially she did not seem to be too serious about it. It is only now that she is taking it seriously, and getting better and better with every film. She has worked with almost all the actors who matter, and among these she has a few favorites: Amitabh Bachchan, Sunny Deol, Salman Khan, Anil Kapoor, Sanjay Kapoor and Govinda. She details why she likes them.

Amitabh Bachchan: I like the self-confidence of this superstar of the millennium. His eyes are very attractive. His personality overshadows anyone and everyone working with him.

Sunny Deol: He is very shy. He doesn't talk much on the sets with his co-artistes. But once he breaks the barrier of shyness, he becomes a friend whose company you relish.

Salman Khan: He is my best friend. He tends to be moody at times, but he is very good when he is in a good mood. But when his mood is bad, it's best to stay away from him.

Anil Kapoor: You need a lot of patience if you are working with Anil. He believes in putting 100 per cent in every scene and rehearses his shot a lot before giving the final take.

Sanjay Kapoor: I can talk on any topic under the sun with Sanjay. He has a very good sense of humor.

Govinda: I see a lot of innocence in his eyes. I rate him as a class 1 actor. You can't compete with him. If you try to, then you are sure to bite the dust.

IT'S A DIFFERENT BALLGAME FOR THIS KHILADI

Akshay Kumar, who had a second lease of life as an actor with Suneel Darshan's 'Jaanwar', is now looking forward to see how Suneel's latest film, 'Ek Rishtaa--The Bond Of Love' will affect his career. Marriage has definitely made Akshay a contented man, and he is enjoying the bliss. As far as career is concerned, he has never had it so good, with roles that have a lot of substance coming to him. Smashits caught up with him recently for a tete-a-tete.

Isn't it true that previously you were not as serious about your work as you seem to be now? You used to sign films only for the money, without so much as listening to the script?

I guess you're right. But you must admit I had no connections in filmdom, no godfathers to give me a leg up, or advise me on what roles to take on. I had to fend for myself. I confess I did take up a few offers only for the money. But I needed the money then, and I was very insecure at that point. Today, with ten years in films behind me, the situation is different. The experience has made me wiser in my choice of roles. I can't claim that all my forthcoming films will be big hits, but I can say for sure that they will at least be presentable. They may run or they may flop. But I will always be proud that I was part of them.

Now that you're into serious, performance-oriented roles, does it mean goodbye to the old 'Khiladi' Kumar?

I hope not. I'd still love to play 'Khiladi' all over again. If Hollywood can have a James Bond, why can't Hindi films have a 'Khiladi'? It connects exceptionally well with the audience. If James Bond resorts to computer-aided dare-devilry, I perform similar stunts all on my own. Such films are made differently and have a different framework, a specific audience. I still love doing them.

But you're also looking for fresh challenges?

No, I am not. On the contrary, I hate looking at things as challenges, because, as I see it, only fools take unnecessary risks. I simply take things one at a time, step by step. That way, I can take the results in my stride better. At the moment, acting has become more of a passion. And I'm thoroughly enjoying it. Just as I'm relishing the opportunity to explore new facets of myself as an actor. As for the film's fate at the box-office, I can say nothing. So I'd better take what I can find.

What are the roles you want to do now?

Today my aim is to do all kinds of roles. Earlier, I accepted whatever I got. I must have played a cop in at least 26 of the 40-odd films I have acted in. Now I am in a position to do a 'Hera Pheri', a 'Dhadkan', a 'Jaanwar' and even a 'Khiladi' all at the same time. As far as I'm concerned, I feel I've just started my innings as an actor and so I am looking for varied roles. Earlier, I did films solely for money. Or if a friend came up with an offer, I couldn't say "no". It's like...when an actor starts his career, money matters in his life. After he makes it, he begins to concentrate on doing a variety of roles.

What was it like to work in 'Ek Rishtaa--The Bond Of Love'?

Fabulous! Suneel is a sensitive director, who pays heed to the minutest details. He'd make each of us 'feel' the lines we delivered, or the scenes we enacted. He'd close his eyes and listen to us deliver our lines. If he couldn't sense the intensity in our delivery, he'd make us go through it all over again. Sometimes, I confess, it did get to me. But when I would protest, he'd simply tell me the lines were right, the punctuation wasn't! That's how involved he was. And it really worked. When your dialogue is said with so much feeling, it has a lot of impact. During the dubbing, I could sense the difference it had made. Working with Mr.Bachchan too was a great learning experience.

What will be your next release after 'Ek Rishtaa'?

Abbas-Mustan's 'Ajnabi' will be my next release. It is a totally different movie from 'Ek Rishtaa' and I loved doing it. Bobby Deol, Kareena Kapoor and Bipasha Basu are my co-stars in the film and we all had a great time doing it.

Do you feel depressed if a film in which you put in a lot of effort fails?

It is disappointing. I would be lying if I said otherwise. But your disappointment is tempered if your performance is appreciated. For example, 'Sangharsh' brought a lot of disappointment. But then people appreciated my performance. I got a lot of telephone calls congratulating me on my performance, something that never happened even in the case of some hits of mine.

Do you regret doing any films?

I do not regret doing any films. Because, to be honest, when I joined the industry, my motive was to earn money, and I did whichever films came my way.

Do you agree that earlier most filmmakers just cashed in on your 'action hero' image and neglected the actor in you?

It would be cowardly on my part to blame them for it. I feel I should take the blame myself, because I wanted to do those films.

What goes on inside your mind when you are doing a dangerous stunt?

Stunts are something you have to love from within. One can't do them just for the sake of it. You have to understand the physics and chemistry of it. You have to know what is happening and train the mind and body accordingly. Your ankles, wrists, everything... It is an elaborate process. If I go on, I might end up writing a thesis. Because for the last 10 years, I have been doing nothing but stunts and more stunts. The enjoyment I get after doing stunts is immense. I love to jump to earth from 20,000 feet. I love to jump from the 25th floor of one building to another. I know it's risky, but then so are smoking and drinking. Stunts are an addiction and adventure, which keep calling out to me.

Finally, how much has marriage changed you as a person?

Marriage has made me a better person than I ever was before. It has been the best thing to happen to me in a long time. It has widened my perspective towards life. It has definitely brought a few changes in me, but they are all for the good.

JAISI BHI HO YEH 'BIWI', AUDIENCE KE LIYE DOOR HAI!

With a national award for 'Dil To Paagal Hai' under her belt and power-packed performances in Khalid Mohammed's 'Fiza' and Shyam Benegal's 'Zubeidaa', Karisma Kapoor has proved her class. Starting from scratch, without leaning on her famous family name for support, she's come a long way, racing way ahead of her contemporaries. Today, she's in the enviable position where hits and flops have ceased to affect her standing in the industry.Sshe is trying to strike a balance between mainstream and offbeat cinema.

You are doing mainstream cinema with people like Dharmesh Dhawan and at the same time doing films with Kalpana Lajmi. Between the two which do you prefer?

Well, as an artiste, I am game for all kinds of roles. Personally speaking, I was not convinced about my character in 'Biwi No.1', but then I had to do it, and people appreciated the part, didn't they? My point is that the success of one's commercial films is as important because this brings new opportunities. On the other hand, I did 'Fiza' and 'Zubeidaa' to fulfil my desire for quality work. Many people warned me about these films, saying they would be a risk to my career. But then I have taken several risks in my career. Like 'Dil to Paagal Hai', which though I had rejected initially, came back to me after being rejected by several other actresses. After having a closer look at the role, I agreed to it, because standing up against Madhuri Dixit was a challenge. Coming back to meaningful cinema, I'll make one thing clear. It has been observed that generally actresses veer towards meaningful cinema when they aren't offered glamorous parts or roles that suit their age. But, thankfully, that has not been the case with me, and I have taken the stand to maintain a fine equilibrium between both the forms. On the serious cinema front, I now have Kalpana Lajmi's next film.

Will you continue to do films from mainstream cinema?

Of course. These films have helped me tremendously. As I said earlier, I was not personally convinced about my role in 'Biwi'. I would personally never forgive my husband or accept him as the character in the film did. Why should men be forgiven all their mistakes? Do men show the strength to forgive a woman's folly? I would throw such a man out of my life. But in Hindi films, an Indian woman who is the quintessentially sacrificing type is appreciated. Didn't the success of 'Biwi No.1' prove that? Some artistes might say that they cannot portray a character they are not convinced about, but I cannot lie. I can portray all characters whether I am convinced or not.

What was your first reaction when Shyam Benegal offered you 'Zubeidaa'?

I was pleasantly surprised, of course. When I heard that Shyamji wanted to meet me, I had absolutely no clue about this role. When we did meet and he offered me the film, I was thrilled. I was completely bowled over by the script and decided immediately that come what may, I would definitely do the film. On seeing my photos, he told me that I fitted the role to a T. What more could I ask for?

Are films like 'Zubeidaa' and 'Fiza' good experiences?

I have done these films with complete confidence and conviction.

But are you as confident of the success of such films?

Tell me, can anyone guarantee the success of a film? Big films have flopped miserably too. Sure, box-office success is important to me just like others. And I have proved myself several times on that count. But you have to keep up the trend because commercial failure tends to change filmdom's attitude. It's funny how a Friday release affects behavior on Saturday. It's a very sad state of affairs, but no one can be blamed for it. Nothing succeeds like success. But notwithstanding commercial success, I want to do something different. Because it is characters like 'Fiza' and 'Zubeidaa' which become immortal and give the creative satisfaction that I yearn for as an artiste. How many people can claim to have got it?

Off late you seem to have been in and out of a lot movies. Is it true that you are planning to get married soon and so you are leaving movies you don't want to do?

People have got me married many times to many people. This is not the first time that I am in the midst of such baseless rumors. I have ceased to be affected by them anymore. And more importantly, my dedication and conviction towards my profession has not gone unnoticed by my producers, who have not taken such gossip seriously. Doing or not doing a film is an artiste's prerogative. You can call it destiny's play, like the 'Dil To Paagal Hai' role, which came back to me after being rejected by many. Similarly, I had left Nitin Manmohan's 'Aankh Micholi', but I am now back in the project. Indra Kumar's 'Rishta' was first offered to me but I told him that I wanted to do a solo-heroine project with him and he gave me 'Aashiq'. Satish Kaushik wanted to complete his 'Badhai Ho Badhai' in eight months but I didn't have the required dates, so I am doing his next film. And in the case of 'Lajja', I was given to understand that the film revolved around Sunny, Anil and myself. Then later I came to know that the film also starred Rekhaji, Madhuri, Manisha, Mahima and Namrata. I opted out because I did not want to be part of a crowd! Likewise, I couldn't do films like 'Dillagi', 'Har Dil Jo Pyaar Karega' and 'Baadshah' because I wasn't destined to do these films. These things keep happening.

How important are awards to you?

An award is a matter of great pride for any actor worth his salt. It's a kind of souvenir that you can show off to your children and grandchildren. However, more than awards, it's the audience's appreciation that's important. If there aren't any awards for me and there is just the appreciation of well-wishers and critics, that is fine by me.

How would you rate sister Kareena as an actress?

Oh, she's a wonderful and natural actress. That's the reason why she has some very good projects on hand. Although she's my sister, she's very different from me, so there's no comparison between us. Why, we don't even look alike, which should be advantageous for her.

What was the advice you gave her when you got to know she was joining films?

I don't like people who disrespect their work. When Kareena came into films, I didn't give her any acting tips as such. Acting is not something you can pass on. Besides, she's terrific anyway. I just told her to never disrespect her work. I advised her to be sincere and believe in herself.

What have you learnt from your experiences and mistakes?

Do not listen to others. Believe in yourself. What films have to be done is a matter of one's own judgement. Do not follow what others say blindly, because it's you who are going to be responsible and answerable for your actions ultimately. It's you who are going to appear on the screen. With some practical sense and hard work, it's not difficult to attain your goal.

Which three films of yours would you recommend without hesitation?

Most certainly my first film, 'Prem Qaidi', 'Dil To Paagal Hai' and Raja Hindustani.



[ Last edited by  Gadis_Venus at 30-8-2006 02:44 PM ]

Karisma's hubby wants to become their daughter's next friend

Bollywood actress Karisma Kapoor's husband Sanjay Kapur on Wednesday moved an application before the Delhi high court seeking to implead their five-month-old daughter Samaira as a co-petitioner and appoint him as the next friend of the minor for court proceedings.

In his application filed through counsel Manisha Singhal, Sanjay said he was the natural guardian of Samaira and as such, he was responsible for and entitled to take all decisions relating to the minor in her interest.

Sanjay's application is likely to be taken up on August 26 when his writ petition comes up for hearing.

Also read: Karisma's husband files case against her

Earlier, Sanjay had filed a writ petition seeking to restrain Karisma from going abroad along with Samaira. He had also sought the cancellation of the minor's passport issued by the Regional Passport Office, Mumbai.

Interestingly, it was Karisma whose counsel had on the last date wondered how the petitioner was seeking cancellation of Samaira's passport without impleading her as a party to the case.

Contending that 'custody of the child does not ipso facto amount to guardianship', Sanjay said while Karisma may be in the actual physical custody of the child by unilaterally keeping the minor away from her rightful home, 'she (Karisma) is not the sole guardian of our daughter.'

Sanjay had  submitted a certificate from a Delhi-based paediatrician who advised against the five-month-old baby's travel to the US as it would expose the baby to unnecessary hazards of infection as a result of the travel in a confined aircraft cabin for at least 24 hours each way.

It could also result in possible Barotrauma to the ear from air travel, jet lag and interruption of routine, the certificate issued by the doctor said.
     
In her affidavit in response to Sanjay's petition, Karisma, had on August 20, said she was deserted by her 'disgruntled' husband, who had dragged her to court in a 'crude attempt' to seek redressal of their matrimonial issues by using their five-month-old daughter Samaira as a 'pawn'.
   
The actress said Sanjay constructively deserted her and that he was aware why she was 'compelled to reside in Mumbai.'

Seeking dismissal of Sanjay's petition on the ground of lack of jurisdiction as the passport was issued by the RPO, Karisma submitted that the contours of the petition left no doubt that it was nothing but a 'crude attempt' to urge and seek redressal of matrimonial issues by using the minor as a pawn.

Karisma alleged that "barring a few occasional visits to meet their daughter, the petitioner has played no part in the upbringing and welfare of the minor child even today.

"Particularly, the petitioner (Sanjay) has made no financial contribution to the upkeep of the child and the pre-natal, delivery and post-natal care of the mother," she submitted in her affidavit filed through Karanjawala and Co..

Sanjay was supposed to file his rejoinder to Karisma's affidavit on Wednesday. Karisma had alleged that her husband's entire thrust in the instant petition was to settle his personal grudge against her and take Samaira away from her and deprive the minor permanently of the care and custody of its mother.

Karisma, who was invited by the US Federation of Indian Associations to take part as Grand Marshal in the silver jubilee celebrations of India Day Parade in Manhattan between August 20 and 22, 2005, said she wanted to take Samaira along as the baby was too young to be left in the care of others and that she was bound to return given her deep roots in India.
   
The actress accused her estranged husband of suppressing the fact that he had voluntarily opted for US citizenship and that he was not an Indian citizen.

The Centre too has sought dismissal of Sanjay's petition for lack of territorial jurisdiction as the passport was issued by RPO, Mumbai.

In its affidavit filed in the court, the Centre said the consent of both the parents was not needed for issuance of a passport to a minor and that the parent having custody of the child could apply for the same.
   
Earlier, Justice Mukul Mudgal had on August 12 advised Karisma and her industrialist husband to settle their matrimonial dispute in the best interest of their daughter.
     
Sanjay alleged that Karisma got a passport issued to their minor daughter without his consent by flouting all laws and that she was planning to leave for the US along with Samaira without taking him into confidence.
     
Meanwhile, the interim order restraining Karisma from taking the child abroad would continue till August 26



[ Last edited by Gadis_Venus at 22-1-2006 02:32 PM ]

Namrata marries Mahesh Babu

Actress Namrata Shirodkar has married with the Telugu hero Mahesh Babu. This was kept a closed secret from the public though the family members were present on the occasion. The marriage was observed both in Telugu and Maharashtrian ways. Namrata is sister of former Miss India Shilpa Shirodkar and has acted in several Hindi movies She was recently seen in Gurinder Chadha's 'Bride and Prejudice' and 'Rok Sako to Rok Lo'.

Namrata Shirodkar


[ Last edited by Gadis_Venus at 23-2-2006 04:57 PM ]

AFTAB DENIES NIGHTCLUB BRAWL REPORT

Bollywood actor Aftab Shivdasani has denied media reports that he was involved in a nightclub brawl in Pune on February 13. However, Shivdasani agrees that he had gone to Fire-n-Ice but said that such an incident never occurred. "I was with a group of friends and we were just having a good time. Whatever transpired must have taken place after we left," Shivdasani adds. Shivdasani feels that the nightclub management is making him a scapegoat. "I think these guys just want some publicity so they are using my name. That's really sad because I really liked the place and was planning to visit it again."

Meanwhile, the Pune police have suspended the nightclub's license for a fortnight. Shivdasani also denied the allegation of the pub owner that he had threatened to use his political clout to revoke the club license. He also refuted the charge that he was using his friendship with his actor colleague Ritesh Deshmukh, son of Maharashtra Chief Minister, in this matter. Aftab was shocked that he was alleged to be a drug addict. " I have never seen drugs in my life." The club officials are in a state of shock, while the State Chief Minister's office is keeping mum.

Deputy Commissioner of Police said the license of Fire-n-Ice was suspended for a fortnight with effect from February 15. However, he strongly rejected that the action was in any way linked with the Aftab incident. "Officials of the police station had found Fire-n-Ice was violating the license conditions pertaining to the timings. So it had filed reports recommending action. License of Fire-n-Ice was suspended on the basis of these reports," he said.



[ Last edited by Gadis_Venus at 25-8-2005 09:49 PM ]