Men Of Bollywood

I did movies for Kareena: Shahid

2011-01-25T20:39:00.000-08:00

Shahid Kapoor, who turns 30 a month later, says that he's done movies in the past because his girlfriend was in it, but not anymore

You turn 30 next month. How different are you from the time you entered Bollywood seven years ago?

Thank you for reminding me (smiles), but it hasn't really sunk in yet. I really believe that the best years of my life are starting now. I've worked enough now to feel at ease with what I am and who I am. Also, God has been very kind. I've done some very good work, and whether or not my films do well, I always get offered good work.

The work comes because of luck or hard work?

I feel very proud of the fact that I have pretty much done all of it on my own. When I look back, I feel fortunate to be where I am. In this profession, it's not easy to make it on your own as it's very unpredictable, and has its ups and downs. It becomes easier when you are from the industry, but my father, even though an actor was very much away from it. So, I wasn't exposed to people. My beginning was very humble.

You had no advantage then and struggled like any other person would?

Oh yes. I believe I've made a lot of mistakes. I have done some things right but I have committed a lot of mistakes. But even after making those mistakes, to be where I am, I am fortunate. So, am really happy doing what I am doing and I have survived 7 years, and am hoping to survive another 17, probably 20 years, and do work that I am proud of. In fact, it's in the recent past that I've done work that I'm really proud of, actually in the last 3-4 years, that I am doing work that I like, love, enjoy, and am proud of. Till then, I was finding my own identity. It's a very interesting phase, the best years from a work point of view are yet to come and the best years from a personal point of view are yet to come, and I think I am my own person now and I am comfortable with who I am. I think it's only when you are comfortable with who you are that you can have stability in your personal space or in any relationship.

Yes, we've noticed that you are now quite comfortable being spotted with a certain someone who you are being seen with. You also said that in a recent interview, right?

The question that was posed was that the media is linking you with people and you're not responding, and my answer was that I would never be governed by what the media says about my personal life because it would be a very restricted and scary place to be in. I will live my life the way that I do and I've learnt that it's a part of the profession and that things will be written about you and people would want to speculate. And I am not going to get scared or get worried about that and not live my life. I think that I am answerable to the people that I am answerable to and not to the media as such regarding my personal life. I think professionally, there's a huge amount of interaction happening with people...

Yes, you are less uptight now.

Yes, everyone tells me that. You know, I was very scared and very shy and people thought I was uptight, maybe it came across like that and I am very sorry if it did. Abhi toh I know everybody in the media, so I have a personal equation with people, and I have reached that point of comfort where I can open up and say what I feel and not feel any pressure. There used to be a point at which I used to feel a lot of pressure maybe because I was very new and I was still finding my ground, professionally. And it was very upsetting to constantly answer about your personal life. Then one day I just decided that I am not going to answer, write what you want. Life became a lot simpler after that and I think it became simpler for everybody, even for the media and for me.

What mistakes were you referring to earlier?

Lots of mistakes ya... I had no experience, so I used to do films for different reasons. At times I would do a film because I was excited about working with a certain director, sometimes I would be insecure about sitting at home, sometimes because my girlfriend (We assume he means Kareena!) was in it, different reasons, sometimes even because people used to tell me to.

You did movies because your girlfriend was in it?

Ya, and I am very honest about it. Sometimes I did a movie because everyone told me that you must do this film and you cannot say no to these people and then over time I realised that you know success is really periodic. It'll keep changing. What matters is satisfaction. And what's most important is to find success where you are happy and not run after it. So, I stopped. Three or four years ago I stopped running... of course, it's most important in this profession to be successful. But the idea should not be to run after that. Do work that you believe in and that makes you happy. That's what I am doing right now – trying to work with likeminded people, trying to work with people who I think I can talk to about films , who I think think similarly.

No emotional decisions anymore?

I wouldn't say those were emotional decisions, I just think there was lack of experience, so I was trying everything. Acha yaar aisa bhi try kar lete hain... waisa bhi try kar lete hain... Then, it's only over a period of time that you discover yourself as an actor and the person, which I think I have in the last few years. So, I feel comfortable now taking decisions.

You struggled because you were Pankaj Kapoor's son?

Maybe even worse because there were more expectations and I think when you are Pankaj Kapoor's son, everyone's like yaar isko acting toh aani chahiye. I had no advantage of getting a free launch or anything.

You came without a free launch, but were declared a superstar in the making. Unfortunately, you've always been a step or two behind that title...

That's ok, I don't live my life by titles. I feel terrible about the comparisons with everybody because I feel I am really undeserving of being compared to someone like a Shah Rukh Khan or Aamir Khan or any of these people who have had such achievements. There's a long way for me to go and I don't want that pressure on me, frankly. Like I said, it's not easy when you don't have anyone backing you.

Even without the backing, have you achieved everything you wanted to by the time you are 30?

I have a lot more than what I had expected. But there's too much more that I need to do and I am ready to work day and night for it. I remember, Will Smith said this one very beautiful sentence, which for me has become my mantra. I was watching his interview sometime after "Hancock", when he was being touted as the biggest star in Hollywood and that's very surprising with actors like Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt around and he said, "You can be better looking than me, you can have a better body that me, you can be a better actor than me but when you run with me on the treadmill, I will outrun you." That was very beautiful, he said that I work harder than anyone else and that's what makes me what I am. That's my mantra – I'm ready to work harder than anyone.

Bollywood heartthrob Hrithik Roshan's hideout

2011-01-16T23:13:00.000-08:00

Hrithik Roshan is a great actor, and his Zee Cine Awards nomination (as we go to print) for his performance in ‘Guzaarish' proves it. But did you know he also makes fabulous Spanish omelettes?

Greek deity is a synonym often associated with this six-foot hunk. He has always had a larger-than-life aura but Hrithik Roshan the man is content living life in a luxurious yet understated way.

Home is where the heart is
El Palazzo in Juhu, Mumbai, is Roshan's address. His huge duplex in the high-rise qualifies as one of the most sought after and costly properties in the city.

The hunk's hideout is best described as warm and classic, yet contemporary. And the credit goes to wife Sussanne for making the house a home. Not only is she the decision-maker when it comes to the whats and hows of the house, she is also the interior designer.

The home reflects a regal aura with its spacious settings, white and off-white walls and upholstery, and wide marble stairs. It's a home where everything whispers and nothing shouts including the family photographs (past and present) that adorn the walls. This has been Roshan's home for the past seven years.
The drawing room on the first floor encompasses full-length bay windows, which offer a breathtaking view of the city's skyline, palm groves and some vintage bungalows.

A recent addition to the house is the newly done-up kids' room for Hrehaan and Hridhaan. Sussanne, a qualified interior designer, was at the helm of this project but Roshan made sure he contributed too.

"Both kids live in the same room and the bedroom has been designed accordingly. Sussanne and Hrithik firmly believe it's always good to keep the kids together because they bond better. I made sure Zayed and Sussanne had the same room when they were young," beams Zarine Khan, Roshan's interior-designer mother-in-law.

To make sure the home is child-friendly, the couple have made a few changes. The in-house gym has been relocated to the terrace and he has also filled his DVD rack with movies the kids like to watch.

Sussanne has designed the gym keeping Roshan's health condition (his knee injury) in mind. But the other members of the family (Hrithik's parents, Pinkie and Rakesh) who live on the ninth floor of the same building, also share this gym.

The room that Roshan cherishes the most is his entertainment den. It was a surprise gift from his lovely wife. "Well, she knew I needed a place where I could be by myself — with my gadgets or just watching movies. So once, when I was on a long outdoor spell, she got one of the rooms converted into a sort of den for me. It was a super surprise!" he says. Although he has recently bought Paras, a villa in a nearby lane, he plans to move there only after his sons have grown up.

The health buff
There is no denying the fact that he has one of the best bodies in the industry. But it definitely doesn't come easy. The gym in his house is equipped with world-class gadgets. Revolutionary fitness fads always find a place in his workout haven. His favourite training partner, apart from his trainer Satyajit Chaurasia, is his petite-framed spouse.

"Privacy is something that Hrithik is always looking for — even in his workouts," his trainer says. Roshan admits he is addicted to workouts, "I don't feel good if I don't work out. Right after the workout, there is a total sense of calm within me. The stress flows out."

He also gives us a sneak peek into his workout regime. "I start my exercise with jogging and then do my regular workout. I concentrate on each part of my body and do special workouts designed for each. I also own two separate sets of exercise equipment — one, which is kept at home, and the other, which I take along when I travel. They are imported pressure pull machines, which help me work out during my free time — even on a flight. With the help of a vacuum press, I fix this equipment on to a flat surface and pull the handle to exercise the biceps. I follow the same process for my legs. This special mechanism is an essential part of my entourage, along with dumb-bells."

The food freak
Roshan says he never refrains from eating something he really wants to. But he quickly adds that he always balances it by either sweating it out or making sure his next meal is lighter. He sheds some light on his eating habits.

"My dietary restrictions are few because I work out. Yet I avoid oily and fried food. I like Chinese and Indian food but I don't like milk so I don't have any milk products except chocolate. Every day, I have a special chocolate shake rich in protein, recommended by my instructor. I also have a heavy breakfast because it's the most important meal of the day. My afternoon meal is mostly on the sets and an evening snack is optional.

"Since I work late into the night, I either have dinner on the sets or go out with friends to restaurants. I have a sweet tooth and love anything that has sugar but I don't overindulge."

Does his wife charm him with her culinary skills? "Sussanne makes the best spaghetti bolognaise. She cooked me a lovely Italian meal on my birthday, which coincided with my honeymoon in Australia. Except for her cheesecake, which is the best dessert in the world, I avoid sweets. And there is nothing that beats the bread pudding my mum makes." He also doesn't shy away from showing off his skills.

"I make the best eggs in the world — fabulous Spanish omelettes and very good scrambled eggs. When I was in school I used to get ready early and then go into the kitchen and make eggs."
He adds: "According to me, one's body is 90 per cent his/her diet. Hence, one should eat only the right food. I eat very little oil, butter, ghee and fatty stuff. I balance out my meals — protein, carbohydrates and fats. I drink lots of water."

An ideal day
When he gets a day off, which is rare, he likes to just chill out at home. Watching movies and spending time with his wife and kids make a perfect picture for him. "Sussanne and Hrithik are devoted parents. No matter how busy they are, they always make time for their kids. Even with his busy schedule, he tries his best to attend school functions and other activities his kids are a part of," divulges mum-in-law Zarine.

Whenever he takes the family out for a holiday, he keeps in mind not to repeat a destination they've already been to, "I don't like to repeat memories because that can't happen," says Roshan. "I would rather explore the places I've never been to."

Stinky Bollywood actor Aamir Khan?

2011-01-16T22:53:00.001-08:00

Bollywood actor Aamir Khan's wife Kiran reveals he is not fond of bathing

Unsurprisingly, Bollywood actor Aamir Khan's wife Kiran Rao says the one thing she dislikes about her husband is that he doesn't bathe regularly.

"The one thing that I don't like about him is the fact that he doesn't take a bath. And trust me when I say this that his bathing habits are not very regular," Rao told Live India in an interview.

To this, the actor jumped to his own rescue and said: "I do take a bath when I go out for work. And considering most of the time I step out for work, I take a bath most of the time. It is only when I am not stepping out or when I am on a holiday that I don't take a bath."

Rao is all set for the release of her directorial debut Dhobi Ghat, which stars her husband in a pivotal role.

"I forgave him (Vivek), SRK's apology came only to increase TRPs of the show" - SALMAN KHAN

2011-01-11T20:30:00.000-08:00

Salman Khan has been one of the most unpredictable personalities in the Bollywood movie industry.

The actor, however, has undergone a sea change with respect to his personality in the past few months. The man now smiles a lot to the media, he has learnt to come to the sets on time.

But then, the Pocket Hercules, is not in a mood to reconcile with Shah Rukh Khan even though King Khan has been trying to extend the olive branch in different ways. After all this is the third such fight between Salman and SRK and Sallu doesn’t want to forgive him the third time around.

Here’s an exclusive chat with the one-time reclusive star.

Shah Rukh Khan said on Karan Johar’s show that he is responsible for the problems between both of you. So can we see a patch up between both of you happening this year?
He passes my house around four times a day to get anywhere and to return from wherever he goes. If he wanted a patch up why would he say it on a TV show?

Vivek Oberoi also apologised…?
I forgave him because you know whether someone is serious or not in wanting to apologise and whether he seriously felt bad for his actions. I felt this (Shah Rukh’s) apology came only to increase TRPs of the show.

So will you only forgive him if Shah Rukh comes to you and apologises?
I would rather stay away from such people.

Are you going to drink coffee with Karan Johar on his TV show?
Nothing has been decided as yet.

You recently won your first best actor award. Comment?
Well, I do not have anything in me which qualifies me to get a Best Actor award. I, in fact, implore people not to even nominate me for such awards. The love of my fans is enough for me.

Does this mean that you have no regrets that you never got an award till date?
If I had really wanted awards, I would not have missed out on a single award till date. Even you know what kind of things people do to get awards. I do not need to elaborate on this. So if people are getting awards, they deserve it.

There are a lot of people who are saying that “Dabangg” being a hit is not a very good sign for cinema.
See, we are here to make movies to entertain people. We are not here to make movies for ourselves. If we want to make the kind of movies we want, then we should not waste the producer’s money. If someone wants to merely give out a message there are other ways of doing it.

Big Boss News
What was the experience of hosting “Bigg Boss 4” like?
It is a great experience. I was initially a bit scared because I wasn’t too sure about the kind of people who would be coming on the show. But at the end of the day, it was a good one. Once the show started things were in. Be it a celebrity or a common man, it is their real personality that emerges out in a show of this nature.

What have you learnt from this show?
Well, I have learnt to come on time by doing this show.

Manoj Tiwari made some accusations against you. He said that you were the one responsible for his ouster and you played an active role in eliminating him from the show. Comment.

I think that Manoj’s ego her been bruised badly. He feels that he cannot be voted out as he has a huge fan base. He felt that everyone else in the show would be eliminated, but he would have to be there till the end. However, that was not to be.

He also felt that the kind of money other people who are there on the show make is what he pays his servants. Well, there is someone called God who is right up there and has been watching all this.

Manoj was upset with the fact that he lost to Ashmit Patel, as he felt he was far superior to him and far more popular than him.

It is not at all mature to blame me or someone else for his failure. His real personality is now in front of everyone. If he did not have any ego problems, perhaps he would not have been out of the house.

Who are your favourite contestants on this “Bigg Boss 4”?
Manoj Tiwari. (laughs) It is actually Seema Parihar, but then she has been eliminated.

There was a lot of commotion due to the kind of content on “Bigg Boss 4”. Your take?

Well there are a lot of shows on TV which are very vulgar in terms of content. There are several expletives which are mouthed on the show, but then they are beeped out. I do not think there is anything wrong with the content on “Bigg Boss 4”.

A lot of people in the film industry now say that you have become very punctual and your image too has undergone a sea of change in the media. What do you attribute this to?

I am exactly the way I was. I have not changed. Yes, but then I have become punctual at my shoots and it is very important.

I have always been very professional about my work. But then professionalism is not to be measured only on the basis whether someone is punctual or not.

Courtesy: Sanskriti Media and Entertainment

Shaadi Mubarak

2011-01-10T22:04:00.001-08:00

The couple who were dating for seven years had a civil registered wedding at home. The registrar came home for the signing at 6 pm.

It was an extremely personal affair amidst only family members from both sides.

Present were Aamir Khan and Kiran, his first wife Rina with both the kids Junaid and Ira, Mansoor Khan his wife Tina, Aamir's mother and Nuzhat's sisters Nikhat and Farhat.

The bride and groom looking stunning in Manish Malhotra outfit entered their Pali Hill Bungalow in a black Porche.

Coincidentally Imran Khan's mother Nuzhat and mamujaan Aamir Khan also got married in the same bungalow which is his ancestral home and belongs to his maternal grandpa and the legendary filmmaker Naseer Khan.

The couple is leavin tonight for a three-day holiday to Phuket. They have booked an entire island there.

Nilesh Wairkar

Maamu and his jaan posed with the newly weds happily

The Look of love

2011-01-10T22:02:00.000-08:00

Spotted at a cricket match recently, Shahid and Priyanka’s body language proved to be a give away

A picture speaks a thousand words. Both Shahid and Priyanka have tried their level best to convince us that they are single but this moment caught on camera proves they are anything but.

The cosy twosome were spotted on Sunday afternoon in Durban enjoying the T-20 match between India and South Africa.

One must bear in mind Priyanka's remark on Karan Johar's chat show. When asked about the one thing she would like to know, Piggy said, "Whatever's on Shahid's mind." But it's evident in this picture that even with dark glasses on Piggy can see right through her lover's eyes.

You wonder why they denied it for so long then. Ever since Kaminey released in August 2009, this game of the pursuer and the pursuee, so to speak, has been on between Sasha and Piggy.

The couple fell in love soon after but kept denying it. They were spotted together on several occasions later.

Meanwhile...

Now that they are back to being a couple, Piggy is trying to be Shahid's useful better half. The recent awards function had caused a rift between SRK and Shahid but last Saturday, on a flight from Mumbai to Durban, Piggy helped SRK and Sasha patch-up.

Says a source, "On the flight she opened a conversation between SRK and Sasha and also spoke to them about their common interests.

Soon the three were talking like old buddies, eating and joking."

Yogen shah

1. They were spotted for ther first time together at Tarun Mansukhani's birthday bash in April’09.

2. The industry was abuzz with rumours until they made an appearance during the Rajiv Gandhi Awards in August 2009.

3. After that the couple suddenly drifted apart. They even stopped following each other on a social networking site.

But love couldn't keep them apart and they were seen together at a good friend Mubina Rattonsey's party at a Juhu nightclub in August 2010.

4. Barely a week later, Priyanka went to Brazil to shoot for Khatron Ke Khiladi and Shahid drove her to the airport.

5. Shahid, who was advised by his father Pankaj Kapoor to protect his look in Mausam and not step out in public, paid no heed to him and met up with Piggy for the trial of Anjaana Anjaani at Yash Raj Studios in October 2010.

6. Problems developed yet again between them. However, soon after they appeared on Karan Johar's chat show Koffee With Karan, they decided to give their relationship another shot. A month ago Sasha headed to Goa to spend the New Year with Piggy.

Mysterious girl not Sallu’s

2011-01-10T21:49:00.000-08:00

The truth finally reveals itself. For the past few days, a lot of whispers have been doing the rounds about a new mystery girl in Sallu's life.

Spotted first with the actor at the Mumbai airport after he landed from Dubai a few days ago, this woman accompanied him to Imran Khan's sangeet ceremony as well.

Nilesh wairkar

The truth is that this woman is an American who is actually Sallu's friend Paul Parmar's girlfriend. Paul is the bearded man in the backseat with her.

A friend of Salman's told Mumbai Mirror, “Sallu is rather amused at the speculation. Paul, who stays in the US, is down in Mumbai. His girlfriend has accompanied him and they've been travelling with Sallu off and on.”

So, all you women, listen up: apna Sallu is very much single.

There’s no marriage in my kundli

2011-01-10T21:42:00.000-08:00

Q & A - Karan Johar Filmmaker

Putting industry rumours to rest Karan Johar reveals why he is destined to remain a wedding planner all his life

So many hats. Now you’re a wedding planner for Imran Khan?
I happily helped Avantika and Imran with their wedding. They’re friends. And considering there’s no wedding in my own life, helping others with their shaadi is my way of living that experience.
So are you one of those sad wedding planners with nothing for themselves?
No. I aspire to be a wedding planner. I live out my own wedding vicariously. There’s no marriage in my kundli.
Why the finality?
I love my single existence. I love living with my mother. I feel I am married to her.

You are launching three new actors in your film Student of The Year?
Yes, two of them Aliya Bhatt and Varun Dhawan are industry kids, while another Siddharth Malhotra has no connections with the industry. Siddharth and Varun were assistant directors on My Name Is Khan (MNIK).

How do you cope with so many Malhotras at Dharma Productions? There are two Siddharth Malhotras, there are Karan and Punit Malhotra…
I think I was a Malhotra in my previous life. We actually have a Malhotra wing at Dharma. There’s Dharma Productions. Then there’s Dharma-Malhotra Productions. There’s a karmic connection between the Johars and the Malhotras.

How did it happen?
I certainly didn’t go looking for Malhotras.

Your chat show got embroiled in a controversy when Deepika Padukone and Sonam Kapoor bitched about Ranbir Kapoor.It has been controversial; sometime the show gets tabloid-friendly. I do the show with good intentions. I never meant to cause any distress or discomfort to any of my guests or their loved ones. The Deepika-Sonam episode created unnecessary controversy. Enough has been said about it.

Are you going to continue doing the chat show?
Not when I am directing. But Koffee With Karan will always be a part of my life. Kids call me ‘Koffee Uncle’.

MNIK is one of the contenders for nominations for the Oscars. Does that make it a competitor to Anusha Rizvi’s Peepli(Live)?
I don’t think so. Peepli is India’s official entry to the Oscars. I am not sure of the modalities. We are happy to be considered after apparently 400,000 fans of MNIK from all over the world petitioned from Poland, Indonesia, Russia, Germany that MNIK should be considered for an Oscar entry.

After your patch-up with Rishi Kapoor, are Ayaan and Ranbir Kapoor back in your production house?
Ayaan is back with a film. He and Ranbir were a dream team in Wake Up Sid. I am sure they will come together again. It would be lovely to work with Ranbir again.

Hrithik is a child!

2011-01-10T21:38:00.000-08:00

Q & A -Salman Khan Actor

Salman Khan, with characteristic nonchalance, talks about mocking Katrina, his patch-up with John and that Guzaarish fiasco

Over the past few months, Salman has learnt the art of calmly dealing with the media but even then his impetuosity is intact. Taking time off while shooting for an ad, the actor talks to us.
• If you ever marry, how would your ceremony be? Grand or private?
I’ll wake up in the morning and realise that I am married.

• Your audience thought you made jibes at Katrina on your show.
No, we were having fun together. I have taken her case a lot of times. It is the humour that Katrina and I share.

• Dabangg was one of the biggest hits this year. Do you think you are the number one actor?
Nope.

• Who is the number one actor according to you?
I know I am not and I really don’t care.

• Everyone wants to know your relationship status with Katrina.
Have I ever said that I was dating her or that I broke up with her? Then why should I say now?

• For your fans to know...
They will get in touch with me (winks).

• Is it true that you are upset with Katrina because of her increasing proximity to Ranbir Kapoor?
No, not at all. Ranbir used to come home all the time.
• After Sangeeta Bijlani’s break up with her husband Azhradduin, she has been seen in your company. Anything brewing?
Sangeeta and I have always been very close. And Azhar and she haven’t broken up. They are very much together.

• Reportedly, the SRK-Farah Khan fall out has made you Farah’s close friend.Farah and I have always been close. It is just that we didn’t work for the longest time. In fact, during the screen test for Maine Pyaar Kiya, I took Farah to choreograph a song and when she saw me dancing she said ‘iska kuch nahi ho sakta hai’ and ran away from there.

• Sajid Nadiadwala is your close friend too. Now that he is working with SRK, is there any friction between Sajid and you?
No. I will love Sajid to work with others. In fact, he asked me and I told him to go ahead.

• So he did ask you before taking SRK on board?
Sajid came up to me with the script and asked me. I asked him, ‘Are you married to me or what’?

• Recently, in Koffee With Karan, Shah Rukh said that if you are upset with him, it is entirely his fault. Your comments?
Do I have to say something?

• Yes.
(silent) Well, then it must be his fault!

• You patched up with John Abraham recently.
When he says hi I say hi to him. I worked with him on a concert and it takes a long time to build friendships.

• But there was a fight during the concert...
There was never any fight. We just never spoke.

• There was a buzz about your closeness with Kangna Ranaut.
(Smiles) No Sweetheart. Sorry to disappoint you.

• You were also doing a film with her for Mahesh Manjrekar, which got shelved. Why?
We were trying to work something out. It was not confirmed. I will surely work with Kangana.

• Is Govinda upset with you? Is Partner 2 happening?
No! We are just not getting a good script for Partner 2.

• Your words about Guzaarish made Hrithik and Bhansali upsetIf you watch the show, you will see I was making digs at my own films, Khamoshi and Phir Milenge. I said ‘ek kutta bhi dekhne nahi aaya.’

I was asked if I would make such films ever. I said that that time was different. Today, the theatre has to be full. So, I strongly believe that if you want to send out a message just pick up the phone and send one. I am here to entertain. If I want to give out a message, I will text it, I will tweet it. I will not make an expensive film on it. That is what I said about my films. Then I gave the example of Guzaarish, a film that the critics had already killed much before me.

• Hrithik was hurt and vented his feelings in print.
Hrithik is a child!

• Reportedly, even Bhansali was upset. Did either of you talk to each other?
Bhansali... (long pause), he is a grown man.

Salman brings Imran’s sangeet to a halt

2011-01-10T19:15:00.001-08:00

Salman’s entry at Imran Khan and Avantika’s sangeet ceremony on Sunday brought all the festivities to a grinding halt.

Apparently, all the invitees rushed to catch a glimpse of the star.

Director Abbas Tyrewala confirms this happened and says, “Salman came for a very brief time. But between his entry and exit there was great excitement at the venue.

Apparently Salman beat a hasty retreat when he realized he was stealing the limelight away from the couple.The entire team from Imran Khan’s debut film Jaane Tu…Ya Jaane Na was present at his sangeet ceremony in Karjat on his fiancée Avantika’s family farm.And yes, the entire Jaane Tu… team danced to Pappu can’t dance saala.

Disastrous debuts of 2010

2011-01-10T19:05:00.001-08:00

There are debutants who make a mark. There are debutants who don't quite make a mark. And then there are debutants who fade away after that one attempt that goes unnoticed. One can't (and shouldn't) predict whether the names below will ever get a second chance. However, one can say for sure that their first Bollywood outing was a disappointment, whether due to their own act or the film as a whole.

Monikangana Dutta (Guzaarish)

The way Monikangana Dutta was hyped; perhaps it was next only to Sonakshi Sinha in Dabangg. She was being hailed as the find of 2010 by those who stood by Sanjay Leela Bhansali and that too when let aside her characterisation in Guzaarish, not even a single frame from the film had been shown to the world. As it turned out, the length of a single interview of hers was twice the size of her character sketch and dialogues in Guzaarish.

Pakhi (Jhootha Hi Sahi)

Though technically Jhootha Hi Sahi wasn't Pakhi's debut (she had played a small part in Yeh Kya Ho Raha Hai half a decade back), this John Abraham starrer was one film which properly launched Pakhi. She was universally panned though in majority of reviews as critics didn't take kindly to her. As a leading female protagonist in Jhootha Hi Sahi, she was required to shoulder a huge responsibility but along with the falling of the film, Pakhi fell too.

Aditya Narayan (Shaapit)

During the making of Shaapit, there was much buzz around Aditya Narayan's debut as a leading man in this Vikram Bhatt horror show. However, by the time the film was ready to release, the buzz was gone and so was the hype. Result? Though Aditya did act decently, it wasn't good enough for him to carry an entire film on his shoulder. There were rough edges for sure and if the boy further works on his craft, there is still some good hope ahead.

Vikram (Raavan)

This has to be the 'oldest' ever debut in Bollywood. One doesn't remember when was the last time a leading man debuted at an age of 50. Well, Vikram did and though he is a huge name down South, Raavan didn't quite prove to be the calling card in Bollywood for the actor. He was good in this Mani Ratnam film though but since the film was an all around disappointment, Vikram too got under the line of fire. One sincerely hopes though that he gets a good movie for himself in Bollywood to make a mark all over again.

Luv Sinha & Ferena Wazeir (Sadiyaan)

Oops. Oops and a big Oops was what one mouthed in their very first scenes that Luv Sinha and Ferena Wazeir were seen in Sadiyaan. Totally clueless about what they were required to do on screen, not quite knowing what were the expectations from them and disappointing all around with their act, Luv Sinha & Ferena Wazeir didn't leave a mark at all. The ill fate of Sadiyaan did clear one misconception that 'it always isn't in the genes'. Case in point being Luv's sister Sonakshi's act in Dabangg.

Mona Laizza (Kajraare)

Mona Laizaa from Pakistan must have been thrilled when she was signed for Kajraare. She had Himesh Reshammiya for company who was on a high after his debut film Aap Kaa Surroor was a hit. The film's writer was none other than Mahesh Bhatt and it was backed by Bhushan Kumar who was once Himesh's friend with a successive collaboration to boast. However everything changed two years down the line and the film had the misfortune of releasing straight on DVD, hence shattering Mana's dream of being seen on the big screen.

Sukhwinder Singh (Kuchh Kariye)

Sukhwinder was bad in the film? Yes. He should have never made an attempt to act? Yes. Compared to him, Himesh Reshammiya and Sonu Nigam were far better in films like Aap Kaa Surroor and Love In Nepal? Yes. He should never act again? Yes. He should continue singing? Absolutely yes.

Amruta Patki (Hide & Seek)

A former Miss India Earth, Amruta Patki is perhaps the only beauty queen to make such an unsung debut in a mainstream Bollywood flick. One wonders what made her sign this whodunit with a paranormal theme to it as she was surrounded by half a dozen other actors. With a new producer, new director and a meagre budget to boast of, Hide & Seek was a flop, hence taking away with it a debut which went totally unnoticed. She was decent in the film with a great body to boast. It's a matter of starting all over again for Amruta who has it in her to crack it.

Aruna Shields (Prince, Mr. Singh Mrs. Mehta)

Though she has worked in a few movies out there in West, in Bollywood her calling card was Prince. With a single expression being reserved for 'kabhi khushi or 'kabhi gham', she was known most for her dare bare acts in those films from West. This did lead to intensive Google search for her images but beyond that, her only redeeming moment in the Vivek Oberoi starrer was the chartbuster track 'Tere Liye'. As for Mr. Singh Mrs. Mehta, she did pose topless but Censors ruined whatever excitement that audience may have carried to see Ms. Sheilds on the big screen.

Neha Sharma (Crook)

2010 was the first instance when as many as two girls were launched by the Bhatts and still they went unnoticed. Known for presenting their leading ladies with a strong characterisation to boast of, Bhatts couldn't salvage the Bollywood career of Mona Laizaa (Kajraare). The same was the case with Neha Sharma as well who escaped a kiss from Emraan Hashmi but couldn't quite escape from the box office disappointment of this film which had racism as its theme. She was good in the film but along with Crook, Neha's act went unnoticed as well.

Vivek Shauq passes away

2011-01-10T18:51:00.001-08:00

Vivek Shauq (21 June 1963—10 January 2011)

The actor was rushed to hospital after he suffered three cardiac arrests in quick succession. Apparently, medical negligence prior to a liposuction surgery triggered the seizures

Versatile actor Vivek Shauq is no more. The 47-year-old suffered a cardiac arrest on Monday morning. Shauq has worked in over 50 films and is survived by his wife and three children.

Fondly remembered as Jaspal Bhatti’s other half in shows like Ulta Pulta and Flop Show, Shauq appeared in several films and received critical praise for playing Sunny Deol’s friend in Gadar-Ek Prem Katha (2002).

Actor Rana Jung Bahadur, who was also Shauq’s neighbour, said, “As per the information I have got, he died of a heart attack. He had gone to Thane for some minor thing, as he knew someone there. The news is shocking.”

This “minor thing” was in fact a liposuction surgery, which triggered a cardiac arrest and caused Shauq’s death. Dr. Vijay Surase, a cardiologist at Jupiter Hospital, said, “His medical history shows that in 2003 he underwent a major angioplasty operation and three stents were put in his heart. He was prescribed blood-thinning medicines called Aspirin and Clopidogrel. But he discontinued them prior to his liposuction operation.”

Shauq was brought to Jupiter hospital on January 3 after he suffered three cardiac arrests. “His heart had already stopped functioning. Three emergency three shocks had also been given to him. He was on life support system but he went into coma,” said Dr. Dayanand Kumbla, another cardiologist there.

As per liposuction surgery rules, prior to the surgery, a complete health history check-up is done. Knowledge of one’s allergies, medications and previous surgeries must be brought to the surgeon’s notice at this stage.

Shauq underwent a liposuction at the Karkhanis Nursing Home in Thane. When contacted, Dr. Sameer Karkhanis, the plastic surgeon who performed the surgery, said, “Vivek did not reveal anything about his angioplasty and blood thinning medicines prior to the surgery. The ECG and 2D Eco reports showed normal.

But two hours after the surgery his condition became critical.” On Monday he succumbed to death due to septicemia.

While Bobby Deol said, “I have lost a friend. He was a gem of a person,” Akshay Kumar, who was one of Shauq’s closest friends, tweeted, “This is a message, actually it’s more of a request, for all those who have had the pleasure of knowing and watching Vivek Shauq.

I will say this now and always please take care of yourself and of your family’s health; we are nothing without it. I will miss u my friend.”Shauq’s last rituals will be performed this afternoon in Mumbai.

‘Once the hunger is gone, the fun is gone’

2011-01-04T07:32:00.001-08:00

Akshay Kumar looks focused and calm. Yet hungry. After many years of comedy he is getting back to action films. And the buzz around him is huge. Five of his films in 2007 were superhits; together his films this year have grossed more than Rs 500 crore. Akshay is a superstar but his spartan way of life – no smoking or drinking — is legendary. During a recent shoot in Australia he ran up and down 80 stories of a hotel . His personal trainer, the 6 ft 1 inch Jenny, travels with him to all shoots. Akshay is a real action star in a make believe world. Alongside Shah Rukh, 41-yearold Akshay is the only top star whose origins are from outside the film industry. Rajiv Hari Om Bhatia’s journey from Delhi’s Chandni Chowk to become Akshay Kumar is well known. Educated at Don Bosco and Khalsa College, off to Bangkok at 16, struggles as a waiter and travel agent before being spotted for Deedar. The rest, including Khiladi stardom and marriage to Twinkle Khanna is the stuff of movies. And that’s exactly what he’s doing next: converting his real life story to celluloid in From Chandni Chowk to China, directed by Nikhil Advani.

You look damn cool, Akshay. Are you feeling that way?
I think bald is in fashion! (laughs) I’ve just been maintaining myself, so that I can do some action movies this year and the next. Also, I’ve been learning a different
kind of art — parkour.

Is that what you are doing in your Thums Up ad?
Yes, but it’s not about crossing obstacles. Parkour is about getting from point A to point B, as fast as you can using whatever is in your path as support. I’m very
impressed by parkour. I like the energy in it and the power, and the determination. I’ve made my own parkour gym to learn it.

Wow, can I see it?
No. I can’t show it to anybody. It’s basically an obstacle course. It’s a gift to my son.

You seem very focused.
I don’t want to be a director. I don’t have any production companies. I have only one thing to work on and that’s my acting. I listen to scripts. Anything you want to know about films, I know it. Any English film, I know it; any Hindi film, I know it. From Kanti Shah to Yash Chopra, I have seen them all. So, I have very little to focus on except my body and my work. If I was given a lot of things to think about, maybe I would lose it. I have been asked to become a producer many times. People have even approached me saying “You don’t have to put up the money, we will put the money. You just become the producer.” I said, “I don’t know,” because I want to live happily.

You are a rare star: a popular action hero who successfully switched to comedy.
No, even Mr Bachchan used to do it. He used to love action. To be honest, when I watched his action films I literally felt the punch. I still remember in Deewar, or Naseeb, when he punched, it seemed it was not just for the sake of hitting, you felt that he was really angry. But I would still say those were not action movies. Action is what Jackie Chan does, what Jet Li does, what I do.
That’s the zone you are into?
That’s the zone I have been into every time. I introduced martial arts into this industry. I started everything. I changed the parameters when it came to action. The leg splits, the proper kicks, karate goju kicks — I also got cables introduced into this industry in Aawara Pagal Deewana. Now I am introducing parkour. I like action
because I belong there. Comedy is secondary. My first concern, my love, is action and I have always been an action star. My prayer is that in my films this year, I can manage to take action to the next level.
If your friends were to describe you in five words?
They know I am very reserved. I am a person who speaks very little, who enjoys his family company the most and I love watching comedy films.
Are you critical of your work?
To be honest, what happens is this. I sometimes feel that what I think is right is wrong, but the films have done very well. If I sit down and watch my films, I wonder
whether they would have been bigger hits if I had done things differently. But perhaps it wouldn’t have worked at all. There are a lot of things the common man likes which are beyond your comprehension. This is because a lot of people, people like me, believe in buying DVDs. These people won’t spend 100 bucks to watch your film. An autorickshaw guy, taxi drivers, other common people have sensibilities which you can’t challenge. Today, to be honest, it is beyond my understanding how a
film like Phir Hera Pheri is running. Some bits, even I wasn’t laughing, but it worked. Then I begin to feel that either my sense of humour has gone bad or that I have become very intelligent.

When you said that you don’t miss any movie, you meant you watch them at the theatre?
Yes, I go to the theatre, to the multiplexes. Normally the last row is booked. I quietly watch the movie. The manager calls me up and tells me the seats are ready. This much advantage one should take from being a star. Just tell the manager to call you two minutes after the movie starts and we leave a couple of minutes before the movie ends.
Your next release, Tashan, is an action film right?
Yes, a little bit. It has entertainment, but real action would be Chandni Chowk to China.

The plot sounds like your life?
Yes, this is my story. It is my autobiography told in a very, very humorous way. It has got all the events of my life, my being a cook and a waiter, how believing in God and destiny changed my life… getting a chance to go to China and the whole thing. Maybe if the movie does well, I will get into the sequel — from China to Bollywood! (laughs).

Are you okay working with new directors?
I have only worked with new directors and my biggest hits have been with new directors. I like new directors because they are greedy. Greedy for good work and they are literally ready to starve to do good work.

And you like that energy ?
I like it because they have that hunger and once that hunger is gone, the fun is gone. Which happens a lot.

Has Akshay Kumar ever lost his hunger?
Not at all, I am forever hungry and constantly on the look to meet new and interesting people. That’s why today I am working with Nagesh [Kukunoor], I wanted to see what it is like to work with him. His way of looking at things would be completely different from a David Dhawan film.

Does your life revolve around cinema, or is there a larger interest in politics, the country?
No, it’s only cinema.

Do you read newspapers?
Yes, I do read newspapers everyday. I think everybody should try and think of the good they can do. I like to do things involving sports. I don’t know if you read the newspapers today... you may have read that I have adopted five wrestlers. My father was a wrestler and wrestling is a dying sport in India.

Who are your favourite directors to work with?
Well, I like working with Mr Santoshi, Priyadarshan and Vipul Shah. One of my favourite writer, well, actually he is not even a writer... a friend of mine from whom I’ve learnt a lot is Neeraj Vora. He is the director of Phir Hera Pheri.

You’ve always been very selective about doing your ads.
I won’t do ads for just anything though I get a lot of offers. I like to do ads I can identify with. That’s important. I don’t do any product just for the sake of earning money. When you endorse something it is serious business. People should take it very seriously because you are telling them to use that product.

I’ve heard you don’t work on Sundays?
Yeah, I don’t. Blanket ban. No chance. Unless the film gets permission to shoot at a specific location only on Sundays. Then the producer gives me the next day off. I take one day a week off. That’s my son’s day. We do whatever he wants. Sometimes he wants to go to the parkour gym, or eat pizza or watch a movie.

Have you been approached by Hollywood ever?
I have been approached a lot of times. Not for the kind of roles I want to do, though. It’s great being a king here than being a pawn there. As I said, I like to work on my own terms. Like they say in Punjabi, Kedi kaali payin hain, araam naal chalo. [Whats the hurry, take your time.] I follow that policy. I am not averse to it but it has to be a good project. I am not going to let eighteen years of hard work go down the drain by doing a mediocre role or a small film.

If there was a genre you could pick in Hollywood would it be drama, comedy or action?
I don’t think there is anything I can’t do. From a negative role to romance to action, I can do anything. I have tried and I have been successful.

Was it a conscious shift from negative roles to comedy, ?
Yeah, I did it deliberately, because I got bored of people calling me an action hero. It’s boring to keep on hearing that “Oh, if it’s an action film, take him or oh, it’s a romantic film, don’t take him.” I tried to see if I can do something else and it was a kind of an eyeopener. But it was a difficult job to change my image because the
media and the audience doesn’t allow it to happen so quickly. You have to really convince them.

You have incredible comic timing on screen. It’s amazing.
Thank you very much. I get it from Delhi chay [six]. You should meet Chandni Chowk guys, they are amazing. They come from a completely different zone. Their
comic abilities, the way they speak Hindi, it’s all really funny.

Where do you find your inner energy? In God or in yourself?
Well, I never speak about things to anyone. Whatever difficulties I have is within me. It’s quite strange but that’s how it is.

Actors who had a bad 2010

2011-01-04T04:47:00.001-08:00

In 2010, quite a few mighty stars and superstars had a bad year at the box office. Quite a few of them acted well but the film as a whole let them down, hence leading to a red in the report card. If Bachchans had to hunt for the box office success, someone like Hrithik who picks up films quite sparsely had to face double disappointment. Old gun like Sanjay Dutt couldn't fire either while the real life couple of Bipasha Basu and John Abraham didn't have much to smile either.

Abhishek Bachchan

Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey - Disaster
Raavan - Flop

For Abhishek Bachchan, 2010 was mighty disappointing with two of his epic films - Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey as well as Raavan - turning out to be quite bad at the box office. He played two contrasting characters in these films. While he was overtly aggressive in Raavan, Khelein Hum... had him keeping the pitch of his performance low. However, while box office was quite cold to him, even from critical reception perspective, Abhishek didn't find many takers. What went well for him though was the fact that he accepted the failure of both the films with utmost humility rather than turning offensive.

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan

Raavan - Flop
Action Replayy - Flop
Guzaarish - Flop
Robot (dubbed) - Above average

After a quiet 2009 where she didn't have a single release to her name, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan had luxury of riches in 2010. To her misfortune though, she had to face the ignominy of a hat trick of failures with Raavan, Action Replayy as well as Guzaarish seeing a mighty fall at the box office. She did find some good critical acclaim coming her way in Raavan as well as Guzaarish but from commercial standpoint; she had a forgettable year in Bollywood. She can take solace from the fact that Endhiran (seen in Hindi as Robot) is still running to packed houses down South.

Amitabh Bachchan

Teen Patti - Flop
Rann - Flop

All said and done, the man is beyond the numbers game. However, the fact remains that his fans were mighty disappointed when they saw him in an irrelevant film like Teen Patti. He tried hardest to get some sanity in the proceedings but a poor narrative meant that his central protagonist role in the film didn't find any takers. Same holds good for Rann which was an unfortunate flop as Amitabh Bachchan was quite good in his comeback film with Ram Gopal Varma.

Bipasha Basu

Pankh - Flop
Lamhaa - Flop
Aakrosh - Flop

Bipasha Basu isn't quite having the best of the times at the box office and this showed in 2010 as well where she had to suffer a hat trick of flops. One wonders what made her sign Pankh which was the most bizarre film to come out of Bollywood since her partner John Abraham's No Smoking. She was quite good in Lamhaa but the film was patchy due to which her act went unnoticed. On the other hand, she herself was hardly noticed in Aakrosh where Bipasha hardly had a couple of important scenes for herself.

Hrithik Roshan

Kites - Flop
Guzaarish - Flop

For someone who is overtly selective about the work that he does, Hrithik Roshan had as many as two films to his credit in a single year, something which is a rarity. To his misfortune though, both Kites as well as Guzaarish were major flops. He can take solace from the fact though that Kites did take a massive opening due to his name being attached to the project. As for Guzaarish, he can well expect the awards of the highest stature being extended to him once the ceremonies begin.

Irrfan Khan

Right Yaaa Wrong - Flop
Knock Out - Flop
Hisss - Flop

Irrfan Khan is the trusted one if one expects a performance per se in each of his outings. He is also in news for an integral part he is supposed to play in Spiderman Reboot. However, closer home, Irrfan didn't have much going for him with 2010 turning out to be an inconsequential year for him. He was quite good in both Right Yaa Wrong as well as Knock Out but both films were major flops. As for Hisss, he was clueless in the entire narrative but only has himself to blame that he actually gave a go-ahead to such a shoddy script.

John Abraham

Aashayein - Flop
Jhootha Hi Sahi - Flop

It was a matter of delayed releases for John which must have been really frustrating for the actor. On a high after back to back successes of New York and Dostana, John had to suffer a delayed release in Aashayein which failed miserably. Jhootha Hi Sahi too came after a delay and though the man was appreciated from many quarters for an act that totally went against his hunky image, box office had a different story to tell.

Mallika Sherawat

Hisss - Flop

She came, she was hardly seen and she didn't conquer anything at all. It was a typical case of 'na ghar ke na ghat ke' as after making Hollywood as her home, Mallika Sherawat could neither find any luck running there nor did she have much to show in Bollywood. Resultantly Hisss, which was once pitched as that true blue crossover film, found a poor release for itself and the most terrible reviews of the year. Madame Sherawat's act too didn't have much to talk home about and as a result, her only appearance in Bollywood after a long-long time didn't quite see a 'heroine welcome'!

Sanjay Dutt

Lamhaa - Flop
Knock Out - Flop
No Problem - Flop

While he is accused of sleep walking in quite a few of his films, that wasn't really the case in Sanjay Dutt's three releases of 2010 - Lamhaa, Knock Out and No Problem. Lamhaa, a long-in-the-making film was the worst hit of all and though Dutt was decent here, the film was totally ignored by the 'junta'. Knock Out did have a few interesting moments but the film just didn't appeal to the audience and failed to take an opening. As for No Problem, Sanju baba was the best part of the film and though the film did take a decent start, it couldn't sustain much beyond the first week.

Sushmita Sen

Dulha Mil Gaya - Disaster
No Problem - Flop

One wonders if Sushmita Sen would actually be continuing to do films from this point on. She hasn't seen a single successful film since Maine Pyaar Kyun Kiya (2005) and the first decade of the millennium is now ending on a disappointing note for her with both her films turning out to be flops. She tried to 'shimmer' in Dulha Mil Gaya at year beginning but the film was a disaster. As for her year end release No Problem, she could have made her 'multiple personality disorder' comic act far more interesting but that didn't quite come off convincingly on screen.

Anushka Sharma & Akshay Kumar Promoting Patiala House

2011-01-03T04:56:00.001-08:00

Shahid patches up with mom

2010-06-23T21:33:00.003-07:00

Shahid Kapoor had refused to act in his mother Neelima Azim's film. In fact, they weren't even on talking terms. But now maa-beta duo has patched up.

Apparently, before leaving for Scotland to shoot for Mausam, Shahid left his pet dog at his mother's house. A friend of Neelima's confirms, "Neelima is looking after Kaizer (the dog) everyday. It's been nearly 15 days now."

Shahid likes to keep a tab on his dog Kaizer by calling up at least twice a day to instruct his mother about his food etc, Neelima's friend tells us.

When contacted, Neelima confirmed the story. She laughed and said, "Shahid knows that I can look after Kaizer better than he can."

And Neelima's a dog-lover too, it seems. Yesterday, she left town for a few days. "That's not a problem," she said, "My family members are well versed with everything about Kaizer. I will be back in five days, much before Shahid comes back."

After years of discord, mother and son are finally getting along; Neelima Azim is babysitting Shahid's pet pooch Kaizer

Aamir's name hunting on twitter

2010-06-23T21:33:00.001-07:00

Mere announcement of his film's progress makes waves. His ways of promoting films make news for their innovation. He is after all Aamir Khan.

So it came as a surprise when the otherwise reclusive Aamir decided to join the miocroblogging site Twitter and that too on the insistence of Amitabh Bachchan.

"At dinner with Aamir... coaxing him to come on Twitter. Success come to those that dare and act!! Convinced the inconvincible Aamir over dinner to come on Twitter,"

Bachchan posted on his Twitter account.

So, it is not a secret anymore that Aamir will be on Twitter on July 1.

But the already existing Twitter handles in his name don't leave our man with much choice. So what handle does he use?

With all possible permutations and combinations of his name already floating on the microblogging site, we got our thinking hats on and asked the public at large to help him. Clearly there aren't many names (based on the combinations of his initials, his birth date, films, banner etc) left. We give him a few options, based on various aspects of his life, that he could possibly use as his Twitter handle. (See lower box on right).

Twitter or no Twitter, it seems that if you announce your arrival too soon, toh naam gum jayega!

Existing Twitter handles

amir_khan, ammirkhan, khanamir, AmirsKhan, IammAmirKhan, meamir, imamirkhan, amirkhan, amirkkhan, amirkhanmumbai, i_am_amir, Amir__Khan, amirkhanonline1, Iamamirkha, aamir_khan, iaamirkhan, Aam1rkhan, iaamirk, Aamirkhanh, ikhanaamir, TheAamirKhan, aamirrkhan, AamirKhan65, aaamirkhan, a_amirkhn, aamir_khan1403, Aaam1r, aamir007khan, Aamir1965, mail2aamir, aamirkhanhusain, aamiraamiraamir, khanaamirkhan, aamirrr, iam_amir, AmirKingKhan

Alternatives for Aamir

IdiotAamir or AamirIdiot – After his last successful film 3 Idiots

GhajiniAamir or Aamirghajni – His still remembered Ghajini look

iAamir – a la Ihrithik

RealAamirKhan – As in Real Priety Zinta or Real Kangana

Beingaamir – As in Being Salman Khan

Indianaamir or AamirIndian – His efforts to promote Indianness

Aamir Khan Productions – After the name of his company

AamirTKhan or AamirTahirKhan – After his father's name

AamirLive – As in Peepli Live

PerfectionistAamir – That, of course, he is

Kirankaaamir – As in Kiran Rao's husband Aamir

Aamirthesuperstar – After Aamir announced he is the new No 1

Aamirkhan1 – After Aamir said he is No 1 and SRK is No 2

If you're right, prove it: Amitabh

2010-06-23T21:31:00.001-07:00

Five things Amitabh Bachchan did not tweet or blog about in response to the criticism Raavan has faced...

1. If there have been rabid remarks on Raavan then that is what the people who made these observations have felt.

When you are in the public arena, you will always be vulnerable to adverse comment and accusation. You will also be the idol of several, loved and admired equally. You cannot have it good all the time. You must learn to live with it or stop being a member of the celebrity club. Take it on the chin and smile. If you are right, get up and prove it. If you are wrong, acknowledge and accept it.

2. Mani Ratnam is an exceptional talent, even his so called 'worst' is a million times better than many so called 'bests'.

When one sets such high standards of credibility, you garner high expectation also. And when the audience feels that that standard has been even minutely compromised, it expresses disappointment. Aamir Khan and Shah Rukh Khan may have disappointed you in Mela and Paheli, respectively. But that never stopped you from loving them for box office excellence in 3 Idiots and Kabhie Alvida na Kehna.

3. The film is an astonishing mix of mythology and politics put out in ethereal poetry. It is an intelligent film that the ticket- paying audience and the box office pundits are not necessarily impressed with. Hence the adverse reactions. Fair enough. It is Mani's vision. We may not like his creativity, but we do not have the right to tell him not to create, as has been most harshly expressed by some.

4. Abhishek and Aishwarya have come in for flak.

There is diverse opinion. Two critics from two different prestigious print mediums have on the same day tabulated two exactly opposite reactions! One says 'Abhishek has hammed his way through the film' and the other expresses that 'This is Abhishek's best performance to date'. One castigates Aishwarya's 'silent and stone presence' in film, the other gushes that the most endearing quality of the film is her 'stunning performance, never seen before'. Whom do you believe?

5. Abhishek and Aishwarya will perform according to what the director demands.

Critics have an onerous and difficult task. They have to be producer, director, actor, screenplay writer, dialogue writer, musician, playback singer, stunt co-ordinator all in one, and some more – they need to have the ability to assimilate all of this in an opinion and put it down against time lines within 500-600 words. It's a tough ask. Commenting on their credibility would unnecessarily stir up sensationalized 'breaking news' bulletins for a hungry and starved idiot box ogre. So I shall refrain. But personally, I liked both their performances.

(As told to Subhash K Jha)

Big B in Raavan blame game

2010-06-23T21:30:00.001-07:00

Blame it on the editing. Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan did exactly that on the weekend. In his tweets with Filmfare editor Jitesh Pillaai, the concerned father expressed the view that it was the editing of Mani Ratnam's Raavan that led to the inconsistency of the performance of the protagonist — Abhishek Bachchan.

Amitabh implied that had the film not been so "sadly edited", Abhishek's erratic behaviour (and all that jazz about his 10 heads) would have been easier for the common man to comprehend. One of the Big B's tweets read: "Lot of merited film edited out, causing inconsistent performance and narrative, but what presentation!''

However, trade specialists don't seem to be in tandem with the legend's views. Says trade guru Taran Adarsh, "The film (Hindi) opened to a weak response. The figures have just come in this Monday morning. It has collected only 45% of what Kites and Raajneeti collected over the opening weekend. It has fared very average in the UK too.''

Taran who has been following Amitabh on the micro-blogging site says, "When a film flops everything about it seems at fault. It is very easy to blame the editing. But, according to me, Raavan failed because the script was too linear. It was stretched. If the editing is consistent, it can make a film slicker; it can make a performance look better. But inconsistent editing can't save a bad performance. In my opinion, Aishwarya was good in the film, however Abhishek lacked the maturity for this role. If the editing was bad, then even Ash's performance would have got diluted.''

The other trade consultant Amod Mehra, adds, "Everything about Raavan except the cinematography was mediocre.'' He feels the performances of all the lead actors was strictly below average. "When a film goes wrong people are looking for various factors to put the blame on. But the fact is that Raavan has failed. Mani couldn't justify Abhishek's character well. And he made Beera look like a lunatic muttering to himself.''

A staunch supporter of the editor of Raavan, Sreekar Prasad, says, "Sreekar has won 11 National Awards. So to blame his editing is the lamest excuse one can throw up. When Mr Bachchan spoke about Raavan being sadly edited, he probably felt that the length went awry and some scenes got left out as a result of which Abhishek's performance as the 10-headed Beera came out looking half-baked.''

Whatever the implications, the debate continues. Unfortunately, Bollywood feels that Mani's labour of love doesn't merit the debate either. It is reportedly a dead duck.

Amar Singh is family: Amitabh

2010-06-23T21:28:00.001-07:00

You have again started signing films after a long gap. Please describe the projects you've taken on.

Yes, I had not signed a film for a while. There had been an accumulation of 5 films one after the other, due to the multiplex strike. All of them have released, barring one. I have signed up with Raj Kumar Santoshi, and there are projects on the verge of finalization with Pritish Nandy Communication, Prakash Jha, Puri Jagannath, Abbas Mastaan and of course R Balki.

You were in Paris recently for a recital of your father's poetry. How was that experience.

Yes, I was in Paris to do a recital at the prestigious Theatre des Champs-Elysee, of my father's poems. It was a first for me and a first for the Theatre too. Almost 70% French audience, subtitled facilities inside the theatre and a most remarkable evening for me. A venue that has played host to greats in philharmonic orchestra, world renowned ballet and opera to be hosting Hindi poetry recitation was unique. Some of my fans came in from New York and London, Germany and Spain to witness this occasion. I thought it was most endearing on their part. For me it was a privilege to be able to introduce my father's works to an foreign and alien audience. Just such a honour. My father would never have dreamt that this would happen someday, but it did happen and it filled me with a lot of pride.

In London, you had dinner with Aamir Khan. Any projects together coming up?

Why would you assume that when two actors meet and have dinner together that they would be doing a project together?! Aamir was in the same hotel as me, he called we met and went out for a meal. Just another social evening, nothing more. Though working with Aamir would be a joy, particularly if he were to direct the film.

Lately, Mr Amar Singh has had a lot of comments to make on your family. Your comments?

Amar Singh ji is family and any matter on him becomes personal. I would not comment on matters personal.

Does the savage criticism Abhishek's solo films Delhi 6 and now Raavan strike you as being perhaps a little unjust to him?

No, not all. People pay to go and see a film if they do not like something they have the liberty to criticize it. I cannot understand why you particularly mention 'solo'. None of my successful films Deewar, Trishul, Muqaddar ka Sikandar, Sholay, etc. were solo. Abhishek too has had his share of solo successes and non-successes. Some work some do not. It's filmmaking. Happens the world over. One accepts the public verdict learns from it and tries again.

His recent hit was Paa, where you also starred. Any more projects featuring you and Abhishek?

I hope there will be. There are a few talks in progress, when they are ready we can talk about it.

Do you think the subversion of the Ramayan, specially towards the end, was justified ?

Firstly, we need to understand that the film is not Ramayan. It is Mani's concept of a story with elements of the epic in his own interpretation of it. This is the director's take on a story. We cannot comment whether it is justifiable or not. It is best left to his sensibilities as a creative artist. Comment yes, justify perhaps not.

I remember your vocal and emphatic support of Mani Ratnam's Guru. Do you feel as strongly about Ravan?

Yes, but in different ways. Guru was straight storytelling and Mani's brilliance in its presentation was very clear to observe. 'Raavan' is asking me to study and think and analyse and probe. It's taken a while to comprehend, so it is not immediate. It is driving me to intellectualize, something that most viewers are not prepared for when they go to see a film. Mani's technique and approach may already be the subject of discussion and inspiration or imitation even as I write. But then that is a personal and individual view. It cannot be generalised.

Apparently you've been reminding Mani Ratnam and Abhishek that they've worked thrice together and that it's about time you got a chance to work with him. Is a film with Mani around the corner?

I wish it was true, but there is no such offering. Could you put in a word for me ??

I can't help asking...you're tweeting and blogging. Do these means of communication make the press redundant for you?

How could you possibly ask this question at the end of this most exhaustive response of mine to the press! No, the media will never be redundant. Yes, I Blog and Tweet and Vog and soon shall also video blog, but the press shall always have its presence and importance. For me, these mediums are a wonderful opportunity to connect with my fans and well-wishers independently and instantly. The internet is becoming a vast medium for the future. Most of the requests for interviews have also reduced because the media picks up all the daily news from our blogs and tweets. Look at the vast amount of information that these mediums provide on individuals you would perhaps have never had the opportunity to interact with. It should be allowed to grow and prosper, its use and misuse notwithstanding.

Tweeting...what has been the most memorable experience in that sphere of activity?

To have had the great opportunity of a chat with Lataji!!

It's Raavan Gopal Varma!

2010-06-23T21:22:00.001-07:00

Ram Gopal Varma is turning introspective. The director tweets, "It's incredible that we are all such experts on solutions for others' problems and complete idiots when it comes to our own."

He also tweets about films flopping and its effects on him, "A film flopping is like its death. Only difference is at a Man's funeral people sympathise and at a films funeral they tear it apart".

Ramu, who recently suggested that Mani Ratnam attempt a remake of Aag and RGV himself remake Raavan, now remarks, "Ha ha now people are calling me Raavan gopal varma."

RGV used the social networking site to say, "I have to bear with my flops and then also with everyone's flops because whenever whoever has a flop, they invariably compare it with Aag ... . For Tashan they said its Aditya ki Aag, For Chandni Chowk they said Akshay ki Aag and for Kites they said Hrithik ki Aag and now it's Mani ki Aag."

Yesterday he dragged in rival Karan Johar into the scene, by commenting, "I got a better idea, I will make 'My name is Raavan' and Mani should make 'Raavan ki Kurbaan'," taking a dig at Karan Johar's 'My Name Is Khan' and 'Kurbaan'.

Karan Johar gave him a fitting reply. KJo's tweet read: "You have an amazing sense of humour ramu!! Never shows up in your films though...." To which the irrepressible RGV replied, ha ha karan becos of the constant bashing I receive I developed my sense of humour as a defense mechanism. nd talking of my films not havng humour check out ths great comedy I made cald Rgv ki Aag."

Don't stop, Ram.....we're having too much fun!

I'm not much of a romantic: Imran

2010-06-15T19:04:00.001-07:00

Jaane Tu... Ya Jaane Na but Imran Khan is busy shooting for Break Ke Baad. And the during the 'break' he gets, the actor agrees to get chatty on his forthcoming film, I Hate Luv Storys.

For one known to be choosy about roles, it can be assumed that there had to be something 'Kidnap'ping in the venture for Imran to give his nod to the same. The actor approvingly says, "Punit's (Malhotra) irreverent treatment of the subject drew him to the film. He has a wicked sense of humour and this is what translates into my character and also the project."

But surprisingly, Imran had "some issues" when he first met the debutant film-maker. "Punit reworked the script and the second time he came to me, I liked it. In fact, the changed script had a lot more of an irreverent kind of humour," reveals Imran.

Can it then be taken that Imran is vocal about his opinions during such meetings? "That is something I decide when I meet a person and figure out how open he/she is. Luckily, for me, I have worked with open-minded and secure people. As an actor, when a director tells me I didn't do well, I can't be upset. The same holds true for a director too," reasons Imran.

And what about apprehensions when getting on board a fresher's project? "Well, you are kind of venturing into the unknown. So, you go by your gut feeling. I meet almost anyone who calls me up and it is then that you take a call," clarifies the actor, adding that the "best part" of the IHLS experience was that he enjoyed working with a young team. "With like-minded people, there is a lot of enthusiasm on the sets. You get a fresher's perspective on a topic. Look at films like RDB, Dil Chahta Hai, Luck By Chance or Wake Up Sid. They have been made by new guys. That's why you get an insider's perspective into a topic rather than an outsider's view," Imran thoughtfully points out.

He also points out to the kind of fun that he had on the sets, sometimes at the cost of co-star Sonam Kapoor. "I think the interaction between Sonam and me off the sets have more or less got translated on-screen. In fact, Punit and I used to rag her quite a bit. Punit likes to crack jokes in front of a person without him/her being aware of it," Imran relives those moments.

Jokes apart, one wonders how much of a romantic Imran is in real life. More so, when he is all set to tie the knot with girlfriend Avantika. "I am not much of a romantic," Imran insists, adding, "Classic gestures of romance, to me, are trivial. They are nothing more than a mere show. Real love is something when at some point, you decide that the other person's happiness is more important to you."

Now that sure makes sense, eh? And sensibly enough, the actor disagrees to the adage that love is blind. "Infatuation is blind,' he corrects. So for a person much in love, how would he want his love story to be scripted? "I don't really know," says the actor, reasoning, "Real life is not as cinematic. It doesn't have the obstacles and dramas of a film."

We couldn't agree more.

Adnan ‘stoned’ on honeymoon!

2010-06-15T19:03:00.001-07:00

It's been a period of plenty of pleasure and some pain for Adnan Sami. For the last six weeks he has been honeymooning with his third (and hopefully final) wife, the Afghani-German Roya Faryabi.

While travelling all over Europe visiting places like Vienna, Zurich and Paris, Adnan suddenly developed a pain in his stomach. It turned out to be kidney stones. The couple rushed back to Roya's home in Munich. After surgery, Adnan has recovered well enough to return home to Mumbai next week.

"I'm returning with my wife," he says proudly. "Roya is shifting to Mumbai to be with me. Of course, I don't want her to be just a housewife. The company that she works for in Germany, is opening an office in Mumbai. Until we have a baby I want her to be busy because I'll be busy with my music."

Adnan is thrilled with the way Roya's family in Germany has accepted him. "Roya's parents and her four sisters fussed over me while I was unwell. I felt so happy. Roya is definitely a home-maker. I'm looking forward to starting a family with her."

While travelling all over Europe, the singer carried his portable studio to record the sounds from cities in various moods and rhythm. He hopes to put all the sound that he gathered and created in Europe for an album of world music. Vienna was a special stopover for Adnan. "I visited the graves of Beethoven and Mozart. That, too, with my lovely new wife. Isn't it ironical that Roya came with me to visit the graves of my idols, while my previous wife wanted to put me in the grave?"

Adnan returns to Mumbai with his wife next week. Both want to make Mumbai their permanent home. "Mumbai is where we want to start our lives together," says Adnan.

Twins for Sanjay, Maanyata!

2010-06-15T18:59:00.003-07:00

We wish this cute lil tidbit of gupshup is true! Bollywood's grapevine, which has been buzzing since TOI broke the news of Maanyata Dutt's pregnancy, has come back to us with exciting and additional information. It seems the Bollywood hunk is likely to have twins!

Neither the actor nor his wife will confirm the buzz, of course, but people who know Dutt closely say this kind of "double whammy" is exactly what they might have expected from the superstar.

The pregnancy itself has made Dutt ecstatic and he has been heard discussing fatherhood with best friend Ajay Devgn. It appears that Sanju Baba is determined to be a supportive husband and hands-on father this time around.

No work talk in bedroom: Abhi-Ash

2010-06-15T18:59:00.001-07:00

They are becoming a habit with each other. The husband-wife duo of Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan confess that they thoroughly enjoy working with each other.

Guru, Sarkar Raj and now Raavan... this couple has been having a field day working together. But the beauty of this combination is that they don't carry their work home. When curious journos asked this superstar couple whether they discuss movies in the confines of their bedroom, the couple jointly said, "No, we leave our work behind in the studios. Home is our personal space... and we have a lot to talk about other than work." They sound quite like Kajol and Ajay Devgn, another couple that revels in each other's company at home. No shop talk there.