Priyanka Chopra

No One Wants To Work With Priyanka!

2012-02-15T21:59:00.000-08:00

Sanjay Dutt Keen To Write Autobiography!

2012-02-15T11:01:00.000-08:00

'Bollywood has double standards'

2012-02-12T09:16:00.000-08:00

The actress is being ostacrised for her alleged closeness to SRK

The Indian film industry definitely has double standards. A man (married or otherwise) indulging in multiple relationships is applauded for being a stud;a woman who does the same is labelled "loose.'' In other words what is good for the gander is definitely not so good for the goose.

Take the example of Priyanka Chopra. She is being slandered and ostracised for her reported closeness to Shah Rukh Khan. While industy wives like Mehr Jessia (Mrs Arjun Rampal) have made it their business to preach on whether PC should be invited to certain homes and parties or not; filmmakers like Karan Johar have decided not to give her work. Mehr's 'concern' is still understandable. But why PC's career should bear the brunt of her personal choices is something one fails to understand.

An amused actor who is watching this tamasha says, "No one is willing to take on SRK because he is the Bollywood Badshah. So Bollywood's moral brigade is happy to take potshots at Priyanka.'' While it is futile to even debate, whether or not SRK-PC are more than just good friends; and actually no one's business; what is disturbing is the way the world is reacting to Priyanka. Says the same actor, "If two people are in a relationship, it is their business. It should have no bearing on their professional career. And if the industry is making it their business, then both the married man and his new friend should be meted out the same treatment.''

Double standards though are not new in the films. Years ago Nagma was reportedly shunted out of Tamil Nadu because of her liaison with a Kollywood' Sarath Kumar. On record, Nagma said, "I called off my relationship with him because we had reached a dead end.'' However when asked whether she was aware that Sarath Kumar and a couple of close aides had asked producers to stop giving her work Nagma denied this. She diplomatically told Filmfare, "My reasons for returning to Mumbai were very much my own.''

Priyanka refuses to answer all questions on her controversial personal life.

I was the first actor to enter the 100 cr club: Sanjay Dutt

2012-02-12T03:29:00.001-08:00

Sanjay Dutt on how success is nice, but not new to him...

You're now a part of the 100 crore club with " Agneepath", like the Khans, Ajay Devgn, Aamir Khan and Hrithik Roshan...

Few people know that "Lage Raho Munnabhai" was one of the first films to enter the 100 crore club. Back then, there weren't many multiplexes, but it still did rocking business. Technically, I was the first actor to enter the 100 crore club. But box office business has never bothered me. What I want is for a film to work. After "Agneepath" released, I didn't go around asking people how much money it made. Karan updated me on the huge opening.

Could you have imagined that at 52, your career would be on such an upswing?

I never looked at that way. I've always admired Amitji ( Amitabh Bachchan). If you look at the kind of work he's doing at his age, it's amazing! He has gone through many ups and downs. He went off the limelight for a few years and yet, what a comeback he made! Jaya Bachchan once said to me, 'You're a dark horse, the next super star after Bachchan...' For me, it was a huge compliment.

You've been called large-hearted, as you're the first star to be approached for guest appearances, which you do for free...

I believe relationships are more important than anything else in this industry. I've watched David Dhawan's son Rohit grow up. I gave David a break with his first film, and so it was natural to do a cameo in Rohit's film. I'll go for his wedding too. But honestly speaking, I've stopped doing guest appearances for free. If I do something now, I have a family to look after.

Have you been bonding with Rishi Kapoor post "Agneepath"?

I've always known Chintu sir. I love him, Krishna aunty and their family. Ranbir has grown up in front of me. It was unbelievable when I saw Chintu sir do Rauf Lala's role. He's got such a baby face and I am so used to watching him in romantic roles, that to see him in such a negative character, and perform with such conviction, was a shock!

So, what's next?

I'm doing " Zilla Ghaziabad"; " Department"; a film with Soham Shah based on the Gujarat underworld; a south remake and action-drama directed by PS Ravikumar; "Son Of Sardar"; and "Khallas", which has a huge star cast, and where I play a bodyguard. I don't want to do negative roles till I get something that goes beyond Kancha Cheena. I don't mind doing evil and out-an-out negative characters, but they should be challenging. I want to portray various characters and play everything from a cop to a bodyguard to Munnabhai.

Rs 100 crore is the Biggest Star in Bollywood

2012-02-11T21:54:00.000-08:00

In Bollywood sweepstakes, yardsticks change with time. Once upon a time, great music was the touchstone of box-office success, and for years, 'silver jubilee' was the measure of a stunning hit. In today's world of impatient corporate movie makers, the benchmark of triumph boils down to a neat number: Rs 100 crore.

When Aamir Khan's Ghajini, with its sad ending and southern-type violence, crossed the Rs 100-crore mark in local theatrical collections (post entertainment tax), it demonstrated an, until then, untapped potential. That was 2008.

Since then nine other releases have joined the Rs 100-crore club. For actors, studios, producers, investors, exhibitors, and even fans, it's a magic figure that separates the men from the boys. Post Golmaal 3, Singham and Agneepath, the non-Khans are very much a part of the charmed circle.

What's the significance of the number? For the trade it's reassuring how robust the simple, oldworld box-office collection can be if the mix is right. First, it's earnings after paying entertainment tax that can be as high as 30%. Second, the money made overseas is over and above this. Third, it does not take into account other revenue streams that flow in from satellite rights, music and digital.

Nonetheless, it brings up a tricky question: Is the industry growing, or is it just a combination of more screens, higher ticket prices, and a wider reach, thanks to digitalisation that quickens the day and date release? "A Rs 100-crore figure is really an indication of the growth in the business itself. In equal measure, it reflects the power of a film having pan-India appeal. Traditionally, the Rs 100-crore club has been dominated by the Khans. But with the third non-Khan film crossing the figure, there are definite signs that content is working in totality," says Apoorva Mehta, chief operating officer at Dharma Productions.

Karan Johar's latest release Agneepath, starring Hrithik Roshan, crossed a net box-office collection of Rs 114 crore in two weeks. Exhibitors like Reliance MediaWorks, which runs the 260-screens Big Cinemas, are a beneficiary of the story. According to Anil Arjun, CEO of the company, strong content acceptance is the determining factor.

Some Investments have Made Difference

It brings in 17% more viewers, supports a 12% hike in ticket price. In each of the large-format releases, the collection in tier-2 and tier-3 towns is 20% higher compared with regular movies. "So clearly, a wider appeal in these towns is a driver for a quicker ton," says Arjun.

While content shall remain the king, certain investments have made a difference. More and more multiplexes and done-up single theatres across the country have pushed up numbers. Coupled with this, fast-track penetration that digitalisation has achieved, with players like UFO reaching as many as 2,779 digital screens, across 1,300 cities in 28 states. Cheaper prints, and day and date release possibilities - a trade term that stands for simultaneous release across markets - combat piracy, contributing to higher collections.

"The two major contributors to revenue growth are higher average ticket prices and broader theatrical distribution. Having said that, theatrical contributes only 50% to a film's overall revenues, with satellite, music, home video, overseas rights, new media, digital rights and other smaller revenue streams making up the rest," says Siddharth Roy Kapur CEO of UTV Motion Pictures, whose Rajneeti fell short of the ton by just a few crores.

Producers who sell a film outright to a studio are equal beneficiaries. Atul Agnihotri, the maker of 'Bodyguard', sold the Salman Khan-starrer to Reliance Entertainment, for a reported Rs 60 crore. The film's net box-office collection was Rs 148 crore. In such deals, the onus of marketing and releasing and thereafter making profits rests solely with the acquirer. Like Agnihotri, Excel Entertainment took a safe bet by selling Don2 to Reliance; Arbaaz Khan cut a similar deal by selling Dabangg to Ashtavinayak. "At the pace the industry is growing, we should see a rise in business every three years. So far, Rs 100 crore has definitely become the benchmark for big-budget films," says an upbeat Agnihotri.

The stakes are higher for a release like Agneepath: Johar was the producer as well as the distributor. Here, the producer makes the most money. In Singham, a remake of a Tamil movie, the rights of the original film were with Reliance; the movie became a home production as director Rohit Shetty and lead actor Ajay Devgn were retained for the film. In 2011, five films crossed the Rs 100-crore mark.

Among the Rs 100-crore club members, Golmaal, 3 Idiots and Dabangg hit the high note. "Yes, the potential was there as Ghajini demonstrated but the star, genre and release period play a very important role in achieving mega success at the box office. It's equally important that the content of the film has the ability to draw audience to the theatres during its run," says Priti Shahani , chief strategy officer at Reliance Entertainment, which has had three back-to-back Rs 100-crore hits.

Where does the industry go from here? What kind of content will take films to the Rs 200-crore league? What formula from these 10 films will work? Four have been remakes of a successful South Indian film whose rights have been bought; one is adapted from a book while Dabangg, Golmaal3 and Don2 spin new stories. It could well be beginning of a transition that will redefine Bollywood as the industry that makes the most number of films to one that earns the most.

Bollywood's Bad Boyfriends

2012-02-11T19:32:00.000-08:00

Good girls like bad boys? If you believe Bollywood, it's a big y-e-s.

Quite a few of our leading men have played a unique version of the dirty, rotten heartbreaker, at times for money, on others for fun.

With Valentine's Day around the corner, make sure none of the below listed vile prototype is your guy.

So then, here's a look at Bollywood's horrible boyfriends.

Ranbir Kapoor, Bachna Ae Haseeno

He comes with a warning. And with good reason too.

Although he's a big fan of Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, RK's Raj is nothing like its classic hero. His commitment phobic ways, Casanova-inspired ways ensures he dumps one fabulous girl after another till his bad karma weighs down on him intensely and the only girl he ever cared for decides to give him a dose of his own medicine.

From rendezvous to redemption, it's quite a turnaround, eh?

Saif Ali Khan, Ek Haseena Thi

Wicked was never this suave.

Saif plays a criminal in the garb of a businessman hoodwink a gullible girl into a false romance.

Then he uses her for personal gain by getting her to unwittingly assist one of his shady deals. And, finally, leaves her in prison to rot.

Ranveer Singh, Ladies v/s Ricky Bahl

Ranveer Singh cons many a girls under made-up monikers like Vikram Thapar, Deigo Vaz to make a few easy bucks but it's his turn as Sunny Singh, a self-seeking boyfriend exploiting Parineeti Chopra's naivete that earns him a reputation of a real cad in our eyes.

Akshay Kumar, Garam Masala

What's with Bollywood fascination to glorify skirt-chasers?

Despite a pretty fiancee of his own, Akshay Kumar cannot help being a compulsive flirt in Priyadarshan's Garam Masala.

He openly engages in a fling, juggling as many as three ladies; in the same apartment too!

John Abraham, Aetbaar

Beware of the obsessive kind.

John Abraham, reprising Mark Wahlberg from Fear, is not the guy you want to spend the rest of your life with.

His disturbing fixation with smitten sweetheart (played by Bipasha Basu) and a not-so-pleasant history of violence -- murdering his father, bashing up a sex worker -- stress on why he's a complete no-no.

Shah Rukh Khan, Baazigar

Make sure the guy you are dating doesn't have any personal vendetta against your daddy.

Coz that's what led to Shilpa Shetty getting bumped off a building terrace by her seemingly dorky boyfriend, portrayed by SRK in Baazigar.

To think after all this, the man had the audacity to patao her kid sister (Kajol).

Aditya Panscholi, Yess Boss

He's rich. He's married. He's deceitful. He's a womanizer.

And he's also the boss.

Aditya Panscholi takes all these roles seriously as the manipulative, cheesy guy who cooks up a pot of lies and temptations to draw an ambitious Juhi Chawla's attentions.

Ajay Devgn, Omkara

Jealousy can make a mad man out of the best of them.

And Ajay Devgn's Omkara, based on William Shakespeare's Othello, ruins a perfect relationship after his colleague poison his ears against his blameless ladylove.

Instead of trusting his partner, he chooses to give into the green-eyed monster and strangles her to death as a punishment for a crime she never committed.

Apoorva Agnihotri, Pardes

Any relationship ought to be based on love and mutual respect.

But Apoorva Agnihotri is too rich, spoilt and drunk to get it.

Initially he seems rather refined and charming but his insensitive, imposing pops up after he forces his demure to-be-bride into submission.

Zayed Khan, Anjaana Anjaani

Jerk alert.

Zayed Khan cheats on childhood BFF and sweetheart Priyanka Chopra to engage in a one-night stand with a random hottie.

This unacceptable act of betrayal is taken so badly by PC; she leaves home and thereon begins a series of failed suicide attempts and a really lame movie.

PIX: Bollywood's Most Eligible Bachelors

2012-02-11T06:51:00.000-08:00

Please share

It's one-man-down for Bollywood's eligible bachelor's club!

Riteish Deshmukh, who tied the knot with longtime girlfriend Genelia D'Souza in a grand ceremony over the weekend, was one of the popular single guys in the industry.

With some of the hottest actors like Hrithik Roshan, Imran Khan and Saif Ali Khan already taken, here's looking at the remaining bachelors in Bollywood who are still single, good looking and maybe up for grabs!
Ranbir Kapoor
A real life rockstar, Ranbir rocks our boat with his histrionics on screen and his good looks.

This 29-year-old has come a long way since his debut in 2007.

Not only he's managed to walk out of the shadow of his lineage, he's officialy taken over the loverboy tag from dad Rishi Kapoor with much aplomb.

Salman Khan

He may be 46 years old but Salman's charm refuses to fade out.

At the time when most actors his age are focussing on other aspects of filmmaking to make way for younger leading men, the Dabangg actor is coming into own with blockbuster hits like Ready and Boduguard.

We can't wait to see who will get this gorgeous bad boy to finally settle down.

Shahid Kapoor

Mausam may have turned out to be a dud but we still expect great things from Shahid Kapoor, especially after what we saw in Kaminey!

Besides, he's got the perfect boy-next-door looks.

Prateik

Prateik Babbar turned out to be everything we'd hoped for when he made his acting debut in Jaane Tu... Ya Jaane Na.

Even though he's apparently dating his Ekk Deewana Tha co-star Amy Jackson, Prateik claims he'd love to be a playboy all his life!

Neil Nitin Mukesh

The fair and handsome Neil Nitin Mukesh mixes boyish looks and a buff body well.

The actor is here for the long haul, after all, he delivered an impressive debut in Johny Gaddar.

Kunal Kapoor

He was the well-meaning hacker in Shah Rukh Khan's Don 2 and may have made a brief appearance but his dimpled smile is hard to miss.

The actor remains one of the most good looking actors in the singles club.

Abhay Deol

Abhay Deol is a bit of a rebel and is quite popular for it.

Considered the thinking woman's sex symbol, his charm lies in his twinkling eyes and that boyish, dimpled smile.

Akshaye Khanna

Akshaye Khanna makes receding hairlines sexy!

The actor, who recently appeared in Gali Gali Chor Hai, claimed that he was too young to get married, as he's just 36. Looks like we'll have to wait for this one.

John Abraham

He might well be Riteish Deshmukh's successor with rumours of his impending wedding to Priya Marwah periodically doing the rounds.

We'll just ogle and sigh until the news is made official.

Priyanka Chopra to attend the Grammy Awards

2012-02-10T23:55:00.000-08:00

She's grown up watching the Grammy Awards, and now Priyanka Chopra will be sitting at the Staples Centre in Los Angeles along with the biggest names in music on Sunday evening.

Currently in Berlin attending the Berlin Film Festival where Don 2 is being showcased, PC will make a cross-continental dash to LA today to attend the 48th Annual Grammy Awards.

PC will arrive just in time to catch the main ceremony and will leave early the next day, heading to Darjeeling to shoot for Barfee with Ranbir Kapoor. Joining her at the event will be heavyweights Jimmy Iovine, the CEO of Interscope Records, and Troy Carter, the owner of her management company Atom Factory.

A source adds that Priyanka will also use this opportunity to meet executives from the music business and socialise with fellow actors and musicians. "She is recording her first international music album, so this is the biggest opportunity for her to get global exposure. PC is thrilled and wants to meet everyone from Adele to Kanye West!"

Confirming this, Priyanka says, "When my international team invited me to attend, I did not want to miss the opportunity. I'm looking forward to spending some time with my music team, without work getting in the way. For once, I'm neither nominee, performer nor host, and it will be great to just enjoy the evening as it unfolds!"

Priyanka goes to Hollywood

2012-02-10T21:23:00.000-08:00

Priyanka Chopra is surely riding high on a success wave these days. After back-to-back hits like 'Don 2' and 'Agneepath', Priyanka has another achievement to her credit now.

She has become the first Bollywood actor to be signed up with CAA ( Creative Artists Agency), a prominent entertainment and sports agency of Los Angeles.

The agency handles stars like George Clooney, Meryl Streep, Brad Pitt, Sandra Bullock, Julia Roberts, Will Smith, and Reese Witherspoon.

CAA is also considered to be extremely choosy in picking their talents. "In the past, several Bollywood stars have approached them, but they turned them down politely. Now, Priyanka is becoming popular in LA because of her big-ticket album deal she has signed with Universal," says a member of her entourage.

When contacted, Priyanka who was busy shooting for 'Krrish 3' in Hyderabad confirmed the news and said, "Yes, I have a completely new team working for me in Los Angeles. Let's see how things go."

Her debut album with the international label is due to release later this year.

Shah Rukh won't attend Don 2's Berlin premiere?

2012-02-10T20:51:00.000-08:00

Shah Rukh Khan has been unwell since the past few days and has cancelled his plan of attending the international premiere of Don 2 in Berlin. True?

Although Shah Rukh has told director Farhan Akhtar and co-star Priyanka Chopra that he won't be in attendance at this do, we hear that SRK is actually going to be there for the permiere on Sunday night and give the Don 2 team a jolly good surprise.

According to an industry source, the actor who was antibiotics is now in a condition to travel and so will be attending the Berlin Film Festival on Saturday and Sunday. Considering his huge fan following in Berlin he might spend some time with his fans too.

It is also believed that as per Shah Rukh's instruction the Don 2 team is planning to sport D tattoos. This international premiere is going to be a big celebration for the Don team since the film was shot there and the team returned with a bagful of pleasant memories while shooting this one.

Who is your Valentine?

2012-02-10T19:59:00.000-08:00

Nargis Fakhri can’t get over Ranbir Kapoor

2012-02-10T16:21:00.000-08:00

We aren't talking about their personal relation, but their professional equation.

The Rockstar actress wants to sign another film with RK, so much so that she's been sending feelers to producers saying how their pairing was so well-received by the audience.

Unfortunately, producers don't seem to be sharing her excitement, and she has been told to try acting opposite new faces. Maybe this explains why she hasn't signed on a film yet?

Sexy Hrithik ready for Krrish 3 with Priyanka

2012-02-10T00:04:00.000-08:00

After recuperating from a back injury, Hrithik Roshan is in overdrive for his upcoming superhero sequel Krrish 3.

In order to get the perfect superhero body for his role, the actor has been on a gymming spree, which has resulted in an incredibly sculpted body and killer muscles.

This one happens to be the latest photograph of the actor's buff body!

Like what you see? Think Hrithik Roshan is now fit enough to portray a superhero on the big screen?

Worst Girlfriends of Bollywood

2012-02-09T20:21:00.000-08:00

Often big screen 'girlfriend' translates to sweet, understanding and affectionate types. And while the stereotype continues to flourish, not every girl aspires to be Jenny, Geet or Simran.

There are quite a few instances of nightmarish sweethearts as well -- the kind that makes life hell for their beau with a constant need for attention or vested motives.

Guess not everyone has a hunky-dory Valentine's Day, huh?

On that note, take a look at some of the annoying, irritating or pure evil girlfriends of Bollywood.

Priyanka Chopra, Aitraaz

Never underestimate the power of the Ex.

Piggy Chops returns to haunt a happily-married Akshay Kumar after he rejects her indecent advances. A photogenic flashback reveals how she was never an angel to begin with.

Ambitious, always a bad word in Bollywood, reins her in as she dumps her committed lad and unborn child to razzle-dazzle in the glamorous world of modelling.

Looks like that never happened since she tied the knot with an accomplished albeit aged industrialist anyway.

Deepika Padukone, Break Ke Baad

For all her superhot looks, Deepika's Aaliya is a dominating, selfish, manipulative, boorish brat.

The gal's so full of herself that she breaks off with her boyfriend of many years over non-issues, most of which are her own fault and doesn't show any signs of melting despite his earnest attempts.

And after months of telling him off, the minute she learns he is about to settle down, she decides to disrupt the wedding.

Kajol, Gupt

Kajol lets her girl-next-door allure prevent anyone from recognising the psycho within.

And even though she's won the hero fair and square, her disturbing insecurity and obsession gets the better of her leading to a killing spree in Gupt's now-everyone-knows-whodunit.

Esha Deol, Ankahee

Yet another delusional character is Esha Deol's Kavya of Ankahee.

A product of neglected childhood and with-great-success-comes-greater-loneliness, Kavya sets her heart on seeking a married doctor's affections.

She gets them too. Being a home breaker is clearly not enough as her self-destructive tendencies refuse to slow down resulting in inevitable tragedy.

Kalki Koechlin, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara

She's fussy. She's bossy. She's suspicious. She's superficial. She's controlling.

And boy, is this more sophisticated, less high-strung extension of Suchitra Pillai in Dil Chahta Hai high-maintenance or what?

Chudail alert? You bet.

Kalki's pitch-perfect portrayal of high-society Natasha who calls her boyfriend a million times, video chats with him every single night and then promptly lands in Spain where he's vacationing with his childhood friends underscores her nuisance factor. But, hey, who can argue with a 'Rock Chick in a Hard Rock World?'

Vidya Balan, Ishqiya

There's more to a woman than meets the eye.

Vidya Balan is a picture of slyness and scheming as she romances two men under the same roof.

She has the duo fooled for a while before her true intentions and an unrelenting thirst for revenge come out in the open. Like they say, all is fair in love and war.

Kareena Kapoor, Fida

In the name of love, Kareena is convinced to make bakra out of Shahid Kapoor by projecting herself as the best thing to have ever happened to him.

But as soon as Bebo gets him to rob a bank, she and her original boyfriend, Fardeen Khan nab the money and elope leaving the poor guy for the cops.

You might recall Aishwarya Rai resorting to similar tactics to pull wool over Akshay Kumar's eyes in Khakee.

Ameesha Patel, Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic

Playing the dumb brunette with a fashion sense that screams S-K-I-N to grating volumes is Ameesha contribution to Kunal Kohli's so-called children's fantasy, Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic.

If the idea is to generate comic relief out of her slow-wit and general lack of intellect or wardrobe, it just doesn't work.

Bipasha Basu, Jism

Greed can look glamorous too.

A sinister purpose lies behind those smouldering eyes and skimpy skirts.

An already married Bipasha Basu seduces a dishy John Abraham, convinces him to kill her significant other so that they can be together and then hires someone to bump off Abraham because its wealth she wished for in the first place.

Amrita Singh, Aaina

In this tale of two sisters, Amrita Singh represents the vain, self-centred spoiled brat.

But because she is self-assured and privileged, everyone indulges her like silly. And to boyfriend Jackie Shroff that's precisely what attracts.

Singh's arrogance and ego, however, refuse to allow her loved ones come in the way. She leaves Shroff at the altar for a lucrative modelling assignment but transforms into a slighted drama queen after he reacts by marrying her kid sister.

Shah Rukh Khan says no to smoking

2012-02-09T08:29:00.000-08:00

Here's what your favourite Bollywood celebrities are tweeting.

Shah Rukh Khan, who has been selected as the youth role model by a survey, was reprimanded by his daughter Suhana for smoking, and setting a bad example for youngsters. As a result, SRK tweeted a request not to smoke.

'Daughter just reprimanded me...how can u be the HT survey youth role model if u smoke. So to all the youths out there...please don't smoke!!' he tweeted.

The actor missed the Don 2 premiere at the Berlin film festival, as he is under the weather.

'Sad couldn't travel to Berlin tonite. Will do after rest. Till then @FarOutAkhtar @ritesh_sid @priyankachopra keep Donism alive in Berlin..!! Don's do's & dont's for my 3 reps at berlinale. 1.have the D tattoo on at all times.2.no inner warmers at any cost..Don doesn't wear warmers. Doisms continued for my don team at berlinale...don't wear ur cellphone on a belt clip at any cost & don't dance with ur hands above ur head. Make sure @FarOutAkhtar @priyankachopra @ritesh_sid u follow all of Don's rules to the 'D' & b worthy of the responsibility bestowed upon thee,' he added.

Asin, Shah Rukh Khan bonding

2012-02-09T07:41:00.001-08:00

After starring in superhits with Aamir and Salman, Asin's all set to join B-town's 'Khan'daan. Recently at Riteish-Genelia's wedding,

Asin was looking stunning in a saree in her desi avatar, and became the centre of attention for the paparazzi. But when King Khan made a grand entry, she quickly flashed her pearlies for the photogs and made her way towards SRK. And like any other ardent admirer, she insisted on a few pictures with him. SRK obviously sweetly obliged. We wonder how Sallu feels about all his favourite girls ( Katrina, Asin, Kareena) flocking to SRK.

Shah Rukh Khan, Gauri walk the elegant path

2012-02-08T22:23:00.000-08:00

The last month or so hasn't been a smooth ride in the Khan household.

After all there were talks about Shah Rukh Khan and Priyanka Chopra's 'close friendship' upsetting SRK's wife, Gauri Khan, and disturbing the perfect balance in the Khan residence.

As if that wasn't enough, Neelam Kothari was brought into the picture with Priyanka Chopra allegdely accusing her for spreading the rumours, and filling Gauri's ears. However, what we applaud is the dignified silence that SRK and Gauri maintained in their seemingly difficult time.

Gauri accompanied Shah Rukh when she had to, with a smile on her face and graceful in her demeanour displayed a confidence of much security. Shah Rukh, on the other hand, played his part, well, too, even while interacting with Priyanka Chopra. There was no awkwardness of any kind, and the matter was well taken care.

We are told that Shah Rukh and Gauri have sorted out their differences, and SRK - the doting father that he is - has managed to save his tag of being the 'perfect family man', one that he carries with much pride!

Karan Boycotts Priyanka!

2012-02-08T10:27:00.001-08:00

Priyanka loses Karan but wins the 'Race'

2012-02-08T03:09:00.000-08:00

After Deepika Padukone left the producers of Race 2 in a lurch, with her last-minute exit, the makers have now approached Priyanka Chopra.

According to sources PC has liked the script and is expected to meet theRace 2 team once she is back from the HYD schedule of Krrish 3.

This is the second time Race 2 is being offered to Priyanka.

Last year when Deepika had hinted at a date clash between this film and her Ranbir Kapoor romcom, the producers had sent feelers to PC. But Deepika somehow managed to convince the Tauranis that her date hassles had been sorted.

However as luck would have it, Deepika had to evetually drop out of the project and the much awaited sequel has come back to PC.

While the producers of Race 2 might be chasing Priyanka, it is reported that PC has been receiving the cold shoulder from Karan Johar and is not on his production house’s radar for future projects.

Does a certain Mrs Khan have a role to play in that?

Hindi Movies that made Rs 100 crores

2012-02-08T01:10:00.000-08:00

A look at Hindi movies that have crossed the Rs 100 crore benchmark in their box office earnings.

Karan Johar's Agneepath is the latest film to join the Rs 100 crore club, as it has done phenominal business at the box office since its release on Republic Day. In fact, it saw the biggest opening ever at Rs 25 crores on the day that it released.

We look at the other movies that are a part of this elite club. Media professional and industry observer Abhijit Mhamunkar lists them for us.

Ghajini

Aamir Khan's Ghajini was the first Hindi film to reach this benchmark. Released in 2008, the film took nine days to reach this level.

3 Idiots

Aamir Khan repeated the feat the next year as well, with 3 Idiots.

Within nine days of its release, the film collected Rs 100 crore at the box office. 3 Idiots was the only film in that year to be a part of this elite club.

Dabangg

Salman Khan's Dabangg crossed the magical figure of Rs 100 crore at the box office in 10 days in 2010.

Golmaal 3

Ajay Devgn joined the race with the third installment of the Golmaal series, which fared brilliantly at the box office.

The film released in 2010, and managed to rake in Rs 100 crores in two weeks time.

Ready

The year 2011 saw five films enter the Rs 100 crore club.

First up was Salman Khan's comedy film Ready. It reached the Rs 100 crores mark in 15 days.

Singham

The Rohit Shetty-Ajay Devgn combination worked magic again in Singham.

The film took seven weeks to collect Rs 100 crores at the box office, making it the slowest film to do so.

Bodyguard

Salman Khan scored a hat-trick at the box office with Bodyguard.

Yet another remake of a south film, Bodyguard -- which released on Eid last year -- managed to cross the Rs 100 crores mark in seven days.

Ra.One

Shah Rukh Khan's ambitious project Ra.One took 10 days to make Rs 100 crores at the box office last year.

Don 2

Shah Rukh did it again two months later with Don 2. It reached the Rs 100 crore mark within two weeks of its release.

Who's the best Valentine couple?

2012-02-07T21:08:00.000-08:00

In the run up to Valentine's Day, here's looking at the most romantic couples of Bollywood.
One generates it, the other reels in its impact. The beauty of romance lies in the inexplicable magic it casts upon two people in love. From loving glances to extravagant gifts, it has innumerable forms of expression.

And even actors, despite engaging in make-believe ardour repeatedly, cannot succumb to its exciting allure in real life. With Valentine's Day close on the heels, it's only fair we take a look at 10 of Bollywood's most romantic couples.

1. Abhishek and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan

It wasn't love at first sight for Bollywood's most beautiful and the Bachchan scion.

Although when they did fall in love, AB Jr didn't waste any time. He took his light-eyed ladylove to the same spot -- balcony of a New York hotel -- where the thought of marriage had occurred in his mind and popped the question.

Even though the newly-turned parents don't quite coo sweet-nothings for public consumption, their attachment is obvious and endearing.

2. Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor

From grand getaways in Europe to pampering Bebo with a whopping we-are-committed-to-each-other solitaire and even a tattoo, their romance is stuff Mills & Boons are made of.

Both Saif and Kareena are extremely vocal about their affection for each other and haven't had any hiccups in their solid four-year-old relationship, which is rumoured to culminate in marriage later this year.

3. Akshay Kumar and Twinkle Khanna

Co-stars-turned-life partners, Akshay and Twinkle are easily one of the best-looking couples of Bollywood.

And while they prefer to keep it low-profile for most, one does catch a glimpse of their wild camaraderie once in a while.

Like the time, the Khiladi asked his significant other to unbutton his jeans while walking the ramp at a fashion show.

4. Amitabh and Jaya Bachchan

Best of times. Worst of times.

Mr and Mrs Bachchan have endured a whole lot of highs, lows and negativity through the course of their togetherness.

Yet one look at the duo, be it in Abhimaan, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, Tanishq commercials or public appearances, and you know what makes them the golden jodi of tinsel town -- that's, pretty much, the long and short of it.

5. Shah Rukh and Gauri Khan

Childhood sweethearts to power couple, SRK and Gauri's journey is surreal and special.

While SRK continues to refrain from doing overtly intimate scenes with his co-stars, Gauri plays the devoted, understanding better half to the hilt.

Their mutual respect for each other's religion, family, choices and values makes them what they are.

6. Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao

For all his perfectionism, there's nothing rehearsed about Aamir Khan's interactions with the sweet, earthy but strong-willed filmmaker Kiran Rao.

Despite their age difference, the duo share similar passions, ideals and work ethics, lending their relationship a sense of level-headedness and accessibility.

7. Imran Khan and Avantika Malik

The cute pair dated each other forever before making it official last year.

What's cool is how secure the pair appears together and the absolute sincerity and twinkle in their eyes when they gaze at each other.

Bottom-line: they are in love and it shows.

8. Ajay Devgn and Kajol

Kajol's real life love story with Ajay Devgn may not have the drama and grandeur of Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge but the level of stability it projects is simply rare in Bollywood.

So they are not the kind to get gooey in public but their decade-plus chemistry, even if not particularly effective on silver screen, is unmistakably genuine and warm in person.

9. Rishi and Neetu Kapoor

From Ek main aur ek tu to Do Dooni Chaar, Rishi and Neetu Kapoor have only prospered in romance.

For Neetu, it's always been a case of family comes first.

And in reciprocation, the sparkle on Bollywood's beloved Chintu's face when he dedicated his Best Actor-Critics' Filmfare trophy to wife Neetu for her relentless support, during his acceptance speech spoke volumes.

10. Dilip Kumar and Saira Banu

True romance is often likened to wine that gets better with time.

Turns out, it's not such a cliche after all. The commitment shared by Dilip Kumar-Saira Banu is a tribute to this theory.

'I have been blessed with the man I dreamed of marrying from the age of 12 and we have both given a lot to the relationship to grow stronger and happier with each passing year,' Saira Banu, once said in an interview, about her husband for whom she recently threw a lavish, star-studded bash celebrating his 89th birthday.

Do Priyanka, Kareena, Asin look hot on red carpet?

2012-02-07T09:04:00.000-08:00

Movie stars are a fashionable lot. Sometimes, they look straight out of the fashion magazines but just that once in a while, they get it wrong. We decided to play fashion police, and take a closer look at how celebs stepped out last week.

Bollywood had a hectic social life last week, what with awards shows and wedding celebrations keeping them busy. We take a look at some of the women, who looked terrific on the red carpet.

Blue belle
Priyanka Chopra attended the Filmfare awards and then Sanjay Dutt's Agneepath success party last Monday in a cool blue Salvatore Ferragamo dress.

For a change, the actress got it all right, the hair, accessories were all in place and she looked great.

What do you think?

Bridal glow

Genelia D'Souza wore a coral Falguni and Shane Peacock lehenga for her wedding reception with some traditional jewellery and kept the make up minimal.

Overwhelming

At Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia D'Souza's wedding reception, Anushka Sharma looked like she'd drown in all the fabric that her overwhelming Abu Jani-Sandeep Khosla dress was made of.

And given the actress's statuesque frame, that's saying a lot!

The long and short of it

Jacqueline Fernandes, who may well be on her way to wedding bliss herself with beau Sajid Khan, wore a striking yellow-coloured Anand Kabra salwar kameez to the wedding.

The ill-fitted churidar glitch aside, the actress did a great job with the bindi and hairdo.

Sari affair

Bipasha Basu, quite inexplicably, wore quite a ho-hum sari for the Riteish-Genelia reception.

The blouse didn't help matters. It's quite a surprise considering how good this actress dresses otherwise.

Black beauty

Kangna Ranaut did it again!

She managed to stand out at the reception with her unique lehenga and head band and managed to smile for the cameras.

Kareena Kapoor

Kareena Kapoor is slipping into the mundane as far as her wardrobe is concerned. She wore a rather boring green sari to the reception as she accompanied beau Saif Ali Khan.

Green goddess

Madhuri Dixit just lights up the room with her smile but that's no reason to not pay attention to her outfit.

The actress is still to give us an exciting look after her return to India. And a velvet blouse? We have another sari offender.

One for the flashlights

Maria Goretti, surprised us with her bright sari as she arrived for the Riteish-Genelia wedding.

Loved her sari and hairdo.

Colourful entry

Dia Mirza, who attended all the parties and functions for the wedding, wore a multi-coloured lehenga to the couple's sangeet ceremony.

The actress had everything going for her in this one.

Tropical hues

Actress Chitrangda Singh wore a stunning Salvatore Ferragamo gown for the Filmfare awards last week.

Only wish she'd opted for lighter make up and softer accessories to offset the dramatic gown.

Designer girl

Karisma Kapoor has one of the best bodies in the industry and so, it's a shame to see her do run-of-the-mill outfits.

And this is the perfect instance. It's been ages since she pledged allegiance to Manish Malhotra and mostly wears only his designs when it comes to saris.

South Indian charm

Asin channelled her South Indian belle charm in a white sari with a golden border for the Riteish-Genelia wedding.

Simple gold jewellery and gajra rounded off the look.

Pretty in pink

Amrita Rao was one of the guests, who wore a sari to the wedding and did a pretty good job too.

The colour suited her petite frame and personality.

Maid in maroon

Neha Dhupia played the ultimate diva in this Carolina Herrera gown at the Filmfare awards.

The blouse though, seemed a little overwhelming on her.

Yellow fever

Zarine Khan wore a bright yellow sari to the Riteish-Genelia wedding with a collared blouse.

While the colour was a little blinding, the blouse gave her outfit a very airhostess uniform-like feel. A thumbs down from us.

Black magic

At the Filmafare awards, Sonal Chauhan worked her magic in a strapless balck gown, red lips and a soft side braid.

Classic look for the red carpet.

Miss calculated

Mahie Gill missed the mark (yet again) with this two-toned backless gown at the Filmfare awards.

What could have been a glamorous appearance turned out to be a disaster.

Ethnic chick

Arpita Khan took the ethnic style a little too far with this elaborate Anarkali at one of the wedding bashes.

The sleeves and neckline were just too much for the flowing dress.

Rare sighting

Ekta Kapoor was spotted in a sari at the wedding reception.

While the sari was all wrong, it was refreshing to see the producer give her Malini Ramani dresses a respite.

Priyanka may takeover Deepika's role in Race 2

2012-02-07T07:28:00.000-08:00

Race 2 producer sends SOS to Priyanka to step into Deepika's shoes. Will she respond?

Deepika Paukone had walked out of Ramesh Taurani's sequel to the 2008 thriller Race (Mumbai Mirror, February 4). And that too, after the film had already gone on floors. With his ambitious project in jeopardy, Taurani has now sent a SOS to Priyanka Chopra, asking her to step into Deepika's shoes. And Mumbai Mirror has learnt that the actress has apparently liked the script of Race 2.

Interestingly, this is not the first time Taurani has summoned Priyanka for Deepika's role in the film. In October 2011, when Deepika had informed the producers that her dates for Ayaan Mukerji's film would clash with Race 2, Priyanka was summoned. However, by the time Priyanka reverted, Dippy had sorted out her dates.

However, with Deepika leaving the project after shooting for a few days, the task of finding an actress for the role had become tougher. "It would be rather nice if Priyanka accepts the offer. She had been considered for the role earlier as well. She is aware of the script. So there won't be any time lost over narration. Things can easily fall into place," said a source close to the project.

According to the source, Priyanka, who is currently busy shooting for Rakesh Roshan's Krrish 3 in Hyderabad, will meet Taurani as soon as she returns. Priyanka and Taurani remained unavailable for comment.

Priyanka Chopra crosses 2 mn mark on Twitter

2012-02-07T07:15:00.001-08:00

After Priyanka Chopra's Agneepath entered 100 crore club, there's another reason for the actor to rejoice. Piggy Chops now boasts of 2 million followers on her micro-blogging account. While this piece of news trends heavily on Twitter, her fans post their excitement.

ranbir420: @priyankachopra has officially crossed 2million mark. Many congrats PC. We love you #PriyankaChopra2MillionFollowers

ADiL: Woohoo!! 2 million Followers For @priyankachopra!!

Batrapurva: @priyankachopra @TeamPriyanka Congratos,m flng gr8,u cross Superb. #PriyankaChopra2millionfollowers

abhi_malik: @priyankachopra congrats for completing 2million followers pc

vishou93: @priyankachopra 2000000 followers wooooohh congraaaaats!you totally deserve it!hope you'll still read all tweets :( love always!xxxxxxxxxx

redowan1: @priyankachopra PC congrats on 2 million......such a big Family.......

roula2681: Jungli bili @priyankachopra reached 2million mark.but not yet Don @iamsrk !!!!!Hey @iamsrk come on support our king and make him reach 2mill

justforpc: #PriyankaChopra2millionFollowers and i am 1 of them!! @priyankachopra

iamtanvi: @priyankachopra Woohoo! Two million and counting! How awesome is that? Congratulations! More love and power to you. Watch out, world! :D

kashish: @priyankachopra wow...congratz PC for hitting 2 milllion followers!!! u r awesome!!!:)))

Bollywood's tribute to Raj Kanwar

2012-02-06T21:37:00.000-08:00

Filmmaker Raj Kanwar passed away last Friday in Singapore. Bollywood celebrities who had had an opportunity to work with him, recalled their experiences and paid tribute to the late director.

Priyanka Chopra tweeted: 'Saddens me so much,my 1st director Raj Kanwar passed away..RIP Rajji..U believed in me when even I didn't. Andaaz taught me everything I know just for old times sake.. I'll miss u Rajji..had just met him at my trial for don 2..he always encouraged me..till date.'

Bipasha Basu wrote: 'RIP Raj Kanwar!Very sad news!Live right now, never know whether the next moment is there or not!'

Abhishek Bachchan has wonderful memories to share. 'Terribly saddened by the passing of Raj Kanwar. Was the 1st person to sign me after Refuggee. He made Aishwarya and my 1st film together. Dhai Akshar Prem Ke. Was a lovely man, always happy, smiling and joking. Have wonderful wonderful memories of him. Now no more. Thank you so much Raj ji for the memories. I will miss you,' he wrote.

Lara Dutta tweeted: 'R.I.P. Raj ji. Friend,director and guide. Bid goodbye with a very heavy heart! :-(. We lost a kind, gentle, positive man.'

Akshay Kumar was also sad to learn about his demise. 'Deeply saddened to know, Raj Kanwar, one of our finest directors passed away. He'd directed two of my personal favourite films of my career, Andaaz & Hum Ko Deewana Kar Gaye. My thoughts & prayers with his family. RIP,' he updated.