Bollywood King

Turban saves Amitabh's Life !

2007-02-03T12:55:00.000+05:30

Bollywood's iconic actor Amitabh Bachchan is thanking an elaborate Indian headgear for saving his life after he was kicked on the head by a camel while shooting for a film, a newspaper reported on Thursday.

The 64-year-old actor, playing a royal guard in Eklavya, a period film about palace intrigue, was shooting a scene in which he had to pass through a herd of 400 camels.

The Mumbai Mirror newspaper said one of the camels suddenly landed a kick on Bachchan's head, leaving him dizzy for a few minutes.

"Mr Bachchan kept saying, 'The turban saved my life'," director Vidhu Vinod Chopra was quoted as saying by the daily.

"I would have never believed it happened, but then we spotted the camel in action on the monitor."

The headgear that Bachchan wore for the film is a traditional colourful turban worn by villagers in the western desert state of Rajasthan.Running into several metres, it takes a professional up to an hour to tie a Rajasthani turban, the newspaper said.

Michael Jackson's 'Thriller' in Bollywood !

2006-10-07T14:01:00.000+05:30

Singer Michael Jackson's hit music video "Thriller" will make its way to Bollywood with an adapted version called "Golimaar".

The original 14-minute video released in 1984 has been replicated with the Hindi version featuring an Indian actor dressed in a red leather-vinyl ensemble similar to Jackson's trademark outfit

Jackson's zombie love story will be interpreted with the help of the song and dance culture, a characteristic of the Indian film industry.

The name of the actor who will play Jackson`s role is being kept a closely guarded secret,though the name of dancer Prabhudeva is being circulated by the rumour mills.

Who Planned Aishwarya`s Death ?

Kareena-Shahid Kiss is now 'CHUMBAN' !

Actress Kangana’s sister hurt in acid attack !

2006-10-07T13:45:00.000+05:30

Two girls, including the sister of Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut, were injured when an unidentified man threw acid on them here today, a police official said.

Rangoli, the sister of Ranaut, and Vijaya Chublani were taken to a hospital after the attack, the SSP said.

While Rangoli received serious burns on her face and body, Vijaya received minor burns.

The attacker knocked on the door of the rented house of Rangoli, saying that he had brought a draft for her. Vijaya, who shares the room with Rangoli, called her and the man immediately threw acid on her face and ran away.

On hearing the cries of the girls, neighbours brought the duo to the Government Hospital from where they were referred to a private medical college.

“We cannot rule out any love angle in the matter at this juncture,” the SSP added. Tribune

Aishwarya faces censor`s wrath !

Hot Bed Scenes Embarrass Aishwarya Rai !

Bollywood beats UK at Box-Office !

2006-09-29T21:14:00.000+05:30

Bollywood makes more money in UK than home-grown British productions.

Bollywood films are grossing more money in Britain than UK-made productions and many movies are being shot in this country as also in US to make them more relevant to South Asians living there, a report said today.

According to 'The Times' daily, 69 Bollywood films have been released in the UK and 14 productions financed by Indian film industry are being shot here. In the five weeks since its UK release, 'Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna' has grossed more than 2 million pounds - the same as 'Vera Drake,' the British film showered with Bafta awards and Oscar nominations, since it appeared 14 months ago. Indian producers now regard overseas sales as more lucrative than their home market, the report said.

The three largest multiplex chains - Odeon, Vue Cinemas and Cineworld -routinely screen Hindi films that appear in the UK's top 15 films lists. In contrast, hardly any Bollywood films were released in Britain ten years ago. Lucy Jones of Nielsen EDI, which measures box office performance in 14 countries, told the daily: "It's a recent development. Bollywood is not just a specialist cinema any more."

Until recently, India was regarded as the prime market, with overseas takings as the icing on the cake. Now that position has been reversed. Productions are increasingly being filmed in Britain and America to make them more relevant to South Asians who live there.

Pranab Kapadia, UK head of Adlabs Films, said: "More and more Indian producers are looking at the potential of this market. They are gearing the productions to suit the South Asian international palette - films which people living here can relate to." Hindu

Australian Beauty Queen for Bollywood !

Deepika Padukone Hot with Reshammiya !

Cool Swiss are hot for Bollywood !

2006-09-29T20:45:00.000+05:30

Switzerland has long been a preferred overseas destination for Bollywood, primarily because of its picturesque locale.

But now with other fast-emerging destinations like New Zealand, Austria or even Croatia, serious efforts are being made by that country to venture into a niché area, that of Bollywood merchandising.

"And why not, particularly when the film industry here has emerged as one of India's biggest exports and producers trying to go global in all aspects of film-making," said Marc Rudolf, director (high technology) of Greater Zurich Area (GZA), who is on a visit to Pune.

On Switzerland's growing interest to invest in Bollywood, Rudolf said, "We would definitely like to cash in on this and be part of the Indian film industry for merchandising rights overseas. With American movies in Europe somewhat losing sheen, Bollywood is going to be the next big trend."

As a beginning to connect people to Bollywood, radio and TV stations in Zurich and other cities in Switzerland have started playing Indian films and songs.

What's more, the Swiss national channel during July-August this year showed Hindi films, including some of the popular Shah Rukh Khan starrers on four consecutive Friday evenings.

Aishwarya:a victim of domestic violence !

Beautiful Madhuri Is Now 'Suryamukhi' !

TOI

Suniel Shetty escapes unhurt in car crash.

2006-09-04T23:47:00.000+05:30

Top Bollywood action hero Suniel Shetty had a miraculous escape when his car skidded and slammed into a roadside railing on the Mumbai-Pune expressway, leaving him with just a minor neck injury.

Suneil was being driven to a religious ceremony on the outskirts of Mumbai on Sunday when his luxury sedan skidded after driving over oil.

"It was scary as it was all normal one moment and the next we were taking a turn and suddenly we are careening about madly," Shetty was quoted as saying by the Mumbai Mirror. "God only knows how I was saved."

The car was badly smashed but, like Shetty, the driver escaped with minor injuries.

'Krrish' challenges Superman !

2006-07-20T13:53:00.000+05:30

'Krrish' is the sequel to superhit 'Koi Mil Gaya'

Washington, Bollywood's first superhero "Krrish" has made it to two major American publications in one great leap across the seas to pose a challenge to America's own favourite Superman.

"Superman may have returned, but if he doesn't perform up to snuff his jobcould soon be outsourced to India," said Newsweek, but the Los Angeles Times was more direct: "Move over Superman, make room for Krrish.

"The film that became a cultural phenomenon in India long before its worldwide June 23 release, has done well in Indian communities in the United States too, the Times noted.

In its first three days in North America, "Krrish" brought in $643,000 in 59 locations or just less than $11,000 per theatre.

Worldwide, the box office haul was reported to be a record $15 million in its first week, almost double the $8 million raked in by the previous Indian record holder "Fanaa".

"Krrish" has turned out to have crossover appeal and has drawn a culturally diverse crowd, the daily said citing Dylan Marchetti, head of operations for the ImaginAsian theater in New York, part of the ImaginAsian Entertainment Inc., which brings pan-Asian programming to the United States. "It's played to crowds that were 50 percent non-Asian," he said.

Indian epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharat are brimming with outsize figures, but up to now Indians have seen very few homegrown celluloid superheroes, said Newsweek in its piece on the movie that drew the biggest advance opening in the history of Hindi cinema.

Its $10 million budget is one of the biggest ever for a Hindi film, but still paltry compared with the $200 million reportedly spent on "Superman Returns", it noted and asked: "Is this the beginning of a new genre for Hindi Films?"

"It lays the foundation of the superhero concept in Bollywood," Newsweek quoted the film's star and director Rakesh Roshan's son Hrithik Roshan as saying.

As Asian consumers flex their financial muscles, they will demand Hollywood-type products that are more in line with their own cultural identities, the news magazine cited renowned director Shekhar Kapur as arguing. With its lavish special effects and dramatic stunts, "Krrish" could easily bridge that gap, it suggests.

Roshan himself acknowledges that he made his film primarily for an Indian audience, but said he kept in mind the bigger international one. "You never know; it could catch on, like it happened for 'Crouching Tiger'," he says. Already the director is ready for a sequel with an "even bigger budget" - if the register tills continue to ring.

Jiah Khan Finds Amitabh 'Incredibly Sexy' !

Beautiful Madhuri Is Now 'Suryamukhi' !

Neha Dhupia`s wardrobe malfunction !

2006-07-12T15:34:00.000+05:30

From the recent Lakme India Fashion Week to the Nigar Khan ramp walk in Norway, wardrobe malfunctions have been an integral part of the glamour world. Whether accidental or intentional is debatable! The recent in the series comes from a small-time flick titled Utthaan.

Not many might be aware of this movie produced by popular singer Kumar Sanu that stars the lead pair of Neha Dhupia and Priyanshu Chatterjee who were last seen together in Julie. If you look closely to the poster (circled in red), you might see a bit more of Neha than you asked for.

Whether an overlook in filming or a morphing of image, the wardrobe malfunction seems distinctly visible!

When we recently spoke to Neha, she said she had disassociated herself from the film and its publicity. Though she didn’t cite any reasons for this, we wonder if this malfunction had something to do with it. Or could there be more to it?

In 2004, the producers of Julie had signed a pact with Dhupia which stated that Neha who played the role of a prostitute in the film had no objection in shooting for the bold scenes and won’t back off from the film at the last moment.

(According to the director Deepak Shivdasani, of the three bold scenes, the first scene is where Neha is shown in a bra, the second has Neha going topless and the third one is a long smooch between Neha and Sanjay Kapoor. What is not told yet is that the uncut full version has Neha completely nude.)

Only if the makers of Utthaan would have thought of something likewise, it could have benefited both the parties.

Ironically one of the taglines of the film says, “Ambition, compromise, games… he will do anything to reach the destination.” Does this apply to the filmmakers? Another tagline of the film reads “Upliftment of a common man”. With no pun intended towards the poster in question, the poster does UPLIFT some questions…

- Is it a wardrobe malfunction or a publicity stunt or imaging effects by the publicity designers to make the film hot in trade circuits?

- Has it got anything to do with Neha’s dissociation from the film? Or rather should we ask

- Is Neha Dhupia, in the first place, aware of this stint, what with the movie poster being openly circulated as publicity stills?

No more Skin Show for Neha Dhupia !

Neha Dhupia dates designer's son!

Bipasha "just couldn`t stop laughing" !

2006-06-23T19:02:00.000+05:30

Bipasha Basu, one of Bollywood's best-known sex symbols, enjoys acting in comedies so much that her own laughter sometimes interrupts filming, she says.

Basu has just completed shooting her third comedy in two years.

"Now film-makers are beginning to trust me with comedy," she said, adding that her "inhibitions about doing comedy have dissolved"."The fact that I have a sense of humour helps me to do funny scenes on screen".

Bipasha with Anil Kapoor in biggest hit of 2005 'No Entry'

She said she had had a great time shooting her most recent comedy, with Sanjay Dutt and Ajay Devgan, in London. "There were times when the energy level between Sanju , Ajay and me was so high that we'd often be rolling with laughter," said Basu

"The lines were so funny that I just couldn't stop laughing while shooting."

She didn't say what role she plays in the movie, or what it is about. It has no formal title yet

Bipasha with Akshay and Rimi in 'Phir Hera Pheri'

Basu said co-star Devgan finally warned her that they wouldn't complete filming unless they got a bit serious. "Ajay on his part kept admonishing me, saying: 'If you go on like this, we'll never be able to pack up today.' But I just couldn't control my laughter.

Bipasha is also staring in Omkara, a Bollywood version of Shakespeare's Othello, along with Ajay Devgan, Saif Ali Khan, Vivek Oberoi and Kareena Kapoor. The film will be released in July.

Bipasha is Most Desirable Woman Alive!

Bipasha is.... Draupadi?

Feroz Khan banned from entering Pakistan !

2006-06-22T18:16:00.000+05:30

Actor-producer-director Feroz Khan, who has reportedly been banned from entering Pakistan by President Pervez Musharraf, has dismissed the brouhaha as "insignificant."

"I don’t even remember the fellow’s name," said Khan from Bangalore, referring to the Pakistani compere whose jibe to Manisha Koirala apparently triggered his volatile outburst.

Feroz, who accompanied younger brother Akbar Khan for the premiere of his film ‘Taj Mahal’ in Lahore, felt the Pakistani compere was mocking Manisha when he said, "Madam, you are trembling, so let me change the subject."

The seemingly innocuous comment had fired up Khan, who then reportedly started abusing the host.

"The entire issue has been misunderstood. That’s why I had gone to Delhi to clear things once and for all," said Khan who appeared on India TV in an attempt to clear the air.

"I had merely spoken in favour of Manisha because she was nervous. Nobody else had the guts to do it."

For now, Khan is concentrating on his forthcoming film, a remake of ‘Qurbani’ — his own 1980 hit.

Feroz and his son Fardeen will both be seen in the film, but the rest of the cast is yet to be finalised."Unfortunately, Saif (Ali Khan) couldn’t accommodate his dates for it. No, I am not casting Zayed (Khan) — although he is lovely actor — because he is too young to play Vinod Khanna’s role. He is four to five years younger to Fardeen."

Jiah Khan Finds Amitabh 'Incredibly Sexy' !

Bollywood`s Pakistani Talent Hunt.

Nigar Khan`s dress slips again !

2006-06-21T18:46:00.000+05:30

Old habits die-hard! This has been witnessed in Nigar Khan's life.

Former Bollywood starlet Nigar Khan created a flutter at Cannes when she exposed herself on the red carpet while blowing a kiss to the crowd.

Nigar is not bothered at all...people have seen more of her .

But for Negar, the split second malfunction would hardly rate as the most embarassing moment of her life.

In fact, those who've kept abreast of her antics will vouch that wardrobe malfunctions are almost becoming her calling card.

She was in the news last year as well when she dropped her top during a fashion show in Norway.

Nigar`s bikini top slips on ramp in Norway

Some months later, pictures of her frolicking topless with a co-star in Europe surfaced on the internet — which turned out to be a publicity stunt for an upcoming movie of hers.

Nigar frolicking topless with her Italian co-star.

It can be recalled that Negar was married to actor Saahil Khan and was deported from India in 2005 for working without valid visa documents.

Mallika Sherawat Bares All !

Amrita's Lovemaking Scenes With Arbaaz ?

Amrita Arora's first crush !

2006-06-21T09:40:00.000+05:30

For most sirens, their first crushes were none other than the hunk actors of their time.

Hot & sexy Amrita Arora talks about her puppy love with hot dude Akshay Khanna.

"I had a crush on him but I never expressed it.

In fact, when I joined the film industry I came to know that he is a very serious person so I never went ahead and told him what I felt. And by the time I got an opportunity to do so, I fell in love with someone else.

Now, I am enjoying my time with Usmaan Afzal and I have no problem admitting it. It's a thing of the past now," states Amrita.

Nana Patekar would love to romance Rani !

Aishwarya Breaks Will Smith`s Heart !

Priyanka Chopra is the 'Action' girl !

2006-06-20T11:13:00.000+05:30

Priyanka is HOT in Krrish and Don !

Priyanka Chopra, who is shooting for Farhan Akhtar's "Don" in Malaysia, is eagerly waiting for "Krrish" and says she is not overshadowed by her male co-stars - Shah Rukh Khan and Hrithik Roshan in any of the films.

She would be seen doing stunts in "Don", a remake of 1970s classic starring Amitabh Bachchan and Zeenat Aman.

"We are having a ball in Malaysia. We have shot like crazy. But what we have shot is really quite amazing. I have lots of action scenes to do... I'm looking forward to 'Don'," Priyanka said.

"But before that there's 'Krrish' in June. And I'm really excited about it. Duggu (Hrithik Roshan) is awesome in the film. And if I may say so, I make quite an attractive pair with him. You mark my words, 'Krrish' is going to rock."

But aren't both "Don" and "Krrish" a pretext for major hero-giri? "
"Ah! You wait and watch what I've done in them. In both, 'Don' and 'Krrish', I'm very much part of the action."

Priyanka Chopra asks for police protection !

Hot Lisa Ray doing a 'Girlfriend' !

Mika-Rakhi 'KISS' puts the guests in trouble !

2006-06-19T18:53:00.000+05:30

Rakhi Mika 'KISS' puts the guests in trouble.

Taking a strong view of Bollywood starlet Rakhi Sawant's complaint of sexual assault against pop singer Mika, the National Commission for Women (NCW) on Monday sought footage of the party where the incident took place to explore the possibility of action against those who made slight of the "forced kiss".

"We have asked TV channels to send us footage of the party as we want to identify the guests who made fun of the incident. Action should be taken against all those who made slight of it," NCW Chairperson Girija Vyas told reporters.

"What we have seen on TV has left us stunned. It is clearly a case of sexual assault," she said.

Emphasising that every girl should take training in self-defence to deal with such situations,
Vyas said had she been in Sawant's place, "I would have slapped him (Mika) then and there."

Rakhi-Mika friends before the infamous 'KISS'.

The Commission, taking cognizance of a complaint submitted by Sawant against Mika, has sought a report from Mumbai police on the action taken on an FIR lodged by the Bollywood performer in the matter.

"It is not a matter of an individual or of Rakhi alone. This is a symbolic case through which we want to make it clear that women cannot be treated as objects," Vyas said.

Sawant has complained to the NCW that she was sexually assaulted by Mika, saying he "forcibly kissed" her at his birthday bash.

Mika Gives Lip Service to Rakhi Sawant !

Mika Singh Granted Bail in kissing case.

Australian Beauty Queen for Bollywood !

2006-06-19T12:06:00.000+05:30

Sabrina Houssami, the beauty queen with roots in India who represented Australia in the Miss World contest, says she is open to acting in Bollywood films.

The first person of non-Australian parentage to win the Miss Australia title, 19-year-old Sabrina was born to an Indian mother and a Lebanese father.

Sabrina, who supports a charity called Astara Angels that works with children in Rishikesh, said might consider offers from Bollywood although this will be only "for a short while." Her long term goal is television journalism.

She says she will promote a diverse and multicultural look for Australia .

"I think the advantages for me in this country is I have adopted some western values and being Muslim I have eastern values too," the Sydney university student said, adding "as long as I believe in the right things and treat others well... it shouldn't matter what religion I am."

Jiah Khan Finds Amitabh 'Incredibly Sexy' !

Bollywood Hotties-"beauty with a purpose"

"It`s Wonderful to be Sexy" Urmila.

2006-06-18T17:13:00.000+05:30

"I had the inner conviction to carry off something that would look sexy and asthetic," said Urmila Matondkar in a recent interview while talking about her immense sex appeal.

Urmila, who hailed from a much-grounded Mumbai-based middle-class Marathi family, has however shed the awkwardness of middle-class mind.

Now she has no qualm to be called sexy. "It's absolutely wonderful to be sexy," she said in the interview.

"Sexiness is not determined by the vital stats but a unique quality that emanates from deep within. Fortunately, I can carry off any look, and that, I think, is sexy!"

Well Urmila has surely come a long way from her 'Masoom' days and the change has ben very good.

Over the years her fans have been treated to some of the finest performances on the Bollywood screen.

And of course Urmila has one of the finest bodies among the leading actress and infact had been a trend setter for the well toned,sexy bodies in post Rangeela days.

Kareena`s New Hot & Sexy Look !

Riya Sen`s Hot New Look !

Now Van Damme wants Aishwarya Rai !

2006-06-18T11:08:00.000+05:30

Van Damme wants Aish for his latest flick Asterix At The Olympic Games.

Ravishing beauty Aishwarya Rai had a rendezvous with a Hollywood hardman Jean-Claude Van Damme in Dubai during the IIFA festival this week.

The ex-Miss World met up with the Belgium martial arts star at the glamorous Bollywood event in the Arab state.

According to organisers, Jean-Claude is "curious" about Bollywood and is keen to get to know the Indian movie industry's top names, reports Hellomagazine.

Jean-Claude Van Damme at IIFA awards Dubai.

Rumours are also abuzz, that the action man is keen on the Bride and Prejudice actress joining the international cast of his latest flick 'Asterix At The Olympic Games', which will premiere to coincide with the 2008 Games in Beijing.

And if the deal gets finalised, the grey-green-eyed beauty will be starring against actors like Gerard Depardieu and Claudia Cardinale as well as sporting heroes David Beckham and French footballer Zinedine Zidane.

Now Jackie Chan wants Aishwarya Rai !

Aishwarya Breaks Will Smith`s Heart !

Mika Singh Granted Bail in kissing case.

2006-06-17T18:24:00.000+05:30

'Kaanta laga' girl Shefali Zariwalla with her hubby and Sunidhi Chauhan enjoying the show.(click image to enlarge)

Pop singer Mika Singh, booked in a molestation case filed by Bollywood item girl Rakhi Sawant, was on Saturday granted anticipatory bail by a Mumbai court .

The sessions court, while granting Mika bail, ordered that he could be released on paying Rs 20,000 and a surety for a similar amount in the event of his arrest.

Mika is charged with molestation, assault and criminal intimidation of witnesses.

While molestation and assault are bailable offences, criminal intimidation is non-bailable.

Sawant filed a complaint against Mika on June 11, alleging that he forcibly kissed her at a late night birthday party hosted by him at a suburban restaurant on June 10. She also charged Mika's bodyguard with assaulting one of her friends who intervened.

Mika Gives Lip Service to Rakhi Sawant !

Hot Rakhi Sawant beats Rani Mukherjee!

Priyanka Chopra’s barefoot pilgrimage !

2006-06-17T10:54:00.000+05:30

Bollywood beauty Priyanka Chopra walked barefoot in the mountainous climb to the holy temple of Maata Vaishno Devi.

Priyanka made her arduous pilgrimage to the temple in Jammu to pray for the good health of her father and to express her gratitude for all the good things that have happened to her.

Priyanka says "it was a sense of accumulated gratitude that took me to Vaishno Devi…And I wanted it to happen before my father's next surgery. My father's illness was a reason for the pilgrimage. So was the release of Krrish…Fortunately there has been no end to things to be grateful for. I guess I had a lot to speak to God about."

Priyanka says she had been thinking of making this pilgrimage for a long time but her work routine kept her busy. And now that she was able to take off three days from the schedule of Farhan Akhtar’s movie Don , she flew to Jammu to make the trip.

Did she fly down from Malaysia only for the trip to Vaishno Devi?

'Of course! The minute I could get Farhan Akhtar to let me go, I flew back to Mumbai. I had been delaying the pilgrimage for a while now. My schedule just didn't allow me to take that crucial break

Accompanying Priyanka on the three-day pilgrimage were her parents. While her parents flew to the main temple via helicopter, Priyanka hauled herself through the arduous climb."It was an awesome experience. I felt so much at peace just walking up that hill. I feel a load off my shoulder now," Priyanka says.

She now returns to resume shooting for ‘Don’ in Malaysia.

Esha Deol’s ‘sin-rinsing’ act!

Rani & Ford inaugurate ISCKON temple.

Urmila Matondkar is Breathless !

2006-06-16T12:16:00.000+05:30

Jet lag seems to have been invented for Urmila Matondkar. She has barely touched Mumbai after wowing Trinidad and Tobago in the West Indies with her performance, when she's off to Dubai on Thursday to attend the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) awards.

"I have to go to Dubai because my friend Manish Malhotra has a fashion show there. But I won't be performing this time. Thank god! I'm so exhausted," Urmila said.

It was her first trip to Trinidad and she enjoyed it immensely.

"Trinidad was so exhilarating. I visited the island for the first time. Though the population there is of Indian origin they don't speak Hindi. But they are crazy about all things in Bollywood. I did one solo act, then my grand finale with Akshay Kumar brought the house down."

Speaking of Akshay brings a smile to Urmila's face.

"Akshay and I go back a long way. We did a film Aflatoon some years ago. He's such a livewire on stage. And if I may say so myself I love dancing. So it's a double pleasure when your partner on stage turns out to be as enthusiastic as Akshay."

Urmila couldn't see much of the beautiful island though.

"We barely got in, rehearsed and went on stage. I wish I could have seen a bit of the island. But the show went so well. I kept hearing these depressing reports about other world concerts from Bollywood. And I got scared. Fortunately, our show in Trinidad was a sell-out."

Back home, Urmila's travelling plans seem endless.

"Onir, my director of Bas Ek Pal, says I should be given a travelling trophy. After I return from Dubai, I'll be going to Karachi."

Urmila`s hot & sizziling 32!

Trinidad To Honour Rajesh & Zeenat .

Jiah Khan Finds Amitabh 'Incredibly Sexy' !

2006-06-15T21:36:00.000+05:30

Hot Jiah Khan In RGV`s 'Nishabd'

Eighteen-year-old Jiah Khan’s dream has come true. "It was my childhood dream to become a Bollywood actor.

I only wanted to work with Ramuji (Ram Gopal Varma). I have watched all his films and loved them," she says.

Add to that, she gets to play the romantic lead opposite living legend Amitabh Bachchan in ‘Nishabd’! "Isn’t that unbelievable?" she squeals, "I was very nervous when I first started working with him".

" But he is such an incredibly sexy man. He helped me learn acting and also made me extremely comfortable. Not once did I feel I was working with a super-duper star."

Jiah Khan as Amitabh`s lover in 'Nishabd'

Her role in ‘Nishabd’ is about a teenager falling in love with a much older man. Jiah says that’s the most normal thing to happen to a young girl.

"Every young girl experiences a crush on a teacher or any older person. It was easy for me to play this character as it suited me perfectly."

After having a blast shooting the film, the young star says she hates being back in London. "Can you imagine, the film was wrapped up in 20-odd days? I wanted it to go on forever."

For someone born and brought up in London, was she comfortable delivering Hindi dialogues? "Oh, that was not a problem at all. My mother Rabia is from Lucknow and she was an actor too. And since I always knew that I would be a Bollywood actress some day, I worked on my Hindi," she reveals.

Jiah likes to describe herself as a "rebel without a cause". So it makes sense that she’s making her debut with the most unconventional subject in Bollywood!

'Lolita' the new love in Big B`s life.

Bollywood BANKS on Bachchan!

Aishwarya:a victim of domestic violence !

2006-06-15T10:40:00.000+05:30

Aishwarya & Naveen Andrews in Provoked

THE matchless Bollywood beauty, Aishwarya Rai was the cynosure of all eyes at the Cannes film festival and the attractive actress did not disappoint.

She shined and dazzled all around her with her confidence and beauty.

However it was also at Cannes that Ash’s deep buried wounds resurfaced once again.

Aishwarya Rai with Kiranjit Ahluwalia whom she plays in Provoked

Ash made an appearance for her film ‘Provoked’ which is a true life event of a woman who was the victim of domestic violence for ten long painful years. Rai was seen promoting the film along with real life protagonist Kiranjit Ahluwalia.

Ash also confirmed that she was the victim of domestic violence—but did not elaborate on the painful incident in her life.

It is a well-known fact that the sensuous Rai was dating Bollywood bad boy Salman Khan a few years back.

Salman was also alleged to be known to physically and emotionally abuse his previous girlfriends. Salman was also known to be extremely possessive of his then lady love—Ash.

Friends and relatives of Ash too revealed that many a times he would assault her.

Yet, one fine day when things went overboard and Ash could no longer deal with it anymore, she walked out of the relationship and also admitted to the media and public that she was a victim of domestic violence in her relationship.

However Ash since then has never spoken about the pain, guilt or anger of her past volatile relationship or the reasons for her sticking it out so long.

Now after a few years, with the release of her film on domestic violence, Ash has once again spoken about the issue where she was a victim.

Ash replied to the media at Cannes where she was promoting her film "Have I experienced it? Yeah".

Director of the film Jagmohan Mundhra confirmed that Ash had mentioned to the press at Cannes that she was a victim of domestic violence, but he also stated that she did not give the details of her experience.

Aishwarya Rai-Hot in Hollywood !

Now Jackie Chan wants Aishwarya Rai !

Riya Sen`s Hot New Look !

2006-06-14T15:30:00.000+05:30

Those who have seen Riya Sen over the last few months may have observed an evolved look for the Bong lass.

If you take a look at her recent pictures, it’s evident that there are drastic changes in Riya’s looks. There’s something about her eyes, and her cheeks that looks very "different".

So what’s up? Is it just a fab make-up job, or something else? We asked Riya, who is in Bangkok, about her new look.

The actress said, "I don’t care what you write or say about my face. I am in Bangkok having a good time and would not like to be disturbed."

Sources close to Riya claim the actress seems to have done something. Everyone is wondering whether it’s the lips, eyes or cheeks.

"Obviously, she won’t come out in the open about it. She’s very particular about her looks and what people have to say.

There was a point when Riya would spend hours looking at the mirror. She loves her mirror and lives before it, every time she has to step out of the house."

Added another friend who hangs out with Riya, "You can clearly see the difference between her previous look and how she looks lately. Her eyes and lips have definitely changed shape."

Whatever the reason for riya`s new look her fans are surely the happy lot, to see their favourite star grow more hot and beautiful.

Kareena`s New Hot & Sexy Look !

Amrita Arora - The Sunshine Girl !

Beautiful Madhuri Is Now 'Suryamukhi' !

2006-06-13T09:27:00.000+05:30

Former Bollywood Queen Madhuri Dixit will make her comeback to Hindi cinema this year, playing the muse of legendary 19th-century painter Raja Ravi Varma.

Suryamukhi (Sunflower) will focus on the six years that Ravi Varma spent in the bustling port city of Bombay where he was inspired by a local woman, Sugunabhai - to be portrayed by 39-year-old Dixit.

The film's director, Shaji Karun, says he was looking for a degree of "maturity and stillness" in the lead actress.

"To get expressions in silence, you need a very good artiste, which is why I thought of Madhuri Dixit," Karun said.

Karun said he has cast Bollywood star Ajay Devgan to play Ravi Varma because the actor's brooding, dark looks matched those of the artist.

"I find a lot of similarities between them. His present age also matches with the artist at that time," the director was quoted as saying, adding that he hoped the movie would be released in October - the 100th anniversary of the artist's death.

Ravi Varma, whose family once ruled southern India's Travancore state, died in 1906 leaving a vast legacy of oil paintings with themes from Indian mythology. They ranged from Hindu goddesses to portraits of women doing their household chores.

Prints of Ravi Varma's paintings are still widely popular today. Calendars and posters featuring his colourful goddess paintings adorn millions of Indian homes.

Madhuri plans a Bollywood return.

Pappu Sardar`s 'Madhuri Dixit Calendar' !

Mika Gives Lip Service to Rakhi Sawant !

2006-06-12T23:33:00.000+05:30

Bollywood item girl Rakhi Sawant has accused Mika, brother of pop singer Daler Mehendi, of molesting her at the birthday party of Mika, a wellknown pop singer.

The incident happened around 2am at a restaurent in Mumbai called "Someplace Else".

Rakhi Sawant filed a police complaint in which she claimed that her friend was also assaulted by
Mika’s bodyguard and she was molested by the pop singer. The cases filed were under sections 323 (assault) and 354 (molestation).

At the party, it was Rakhi who first landed a kiss as a birthday wish.. and later Mika gave her a kiss back. Rakhi and Mika were seen enjoying the party and the "inappropriate" kiss at the dance floor surprised Rakhi Sawant. "He bit my lips twice and in the process my earring broke," Rakhi Sawant told reporters. "I am an Indian woman. I will not allow a liplock - a peck on the cheek is okay."

"…her boyfriend was angry because she had kissed me," Mika Singh claimed. Things went smoothly till a few moments later, Rakhi’s friend came in and a brawl started. Mika’s bodyguard was seen in video footage slapping Rakhi’s friend who has blood on his face.

Shefali Jariwala, the Kaanta Laga girl, a fellow item girl had this to say: "Rakhi Sawant was enjoying herself at the party. I really don’t know when the whole thing turned dramatic."

Hot Rakhi Sawant beats Rani Mukherjee!

Arrest Warrants Against Shilpa and Reema !

Oscar Library Selects 'Phir hera Pheri' !

2006-06-12T10:50:00.000+05:30

The script of one of the most awaited sequels of the year Phir Hera Pheri, has got selected for the Oscar Library.

The producer of the film, Firoze Nadiadwala, got a letter from The Academy of Motions Pictures on the 5th of this month which said that the film’s script has been selected for the Oscar Academy.

This is the first time in the history of Indian Cinema that the script of a film got selected for the Oscar library’s exclusive collection even before the film’s release.

Talking about the selection at Oscar library and the super opening the film got at box office Mr. Nadiadwala said "I owe this success to my entire production team, my stars and the director of the film."

With such a big opening at the theatres and honor from the Oscar Academy, looks like Phir Hera Pheri is going to be much bigger than its prequel, Hera Pheri.

Big 'B' and Aby`s fans very upset !

Madhuri plans a Bollywood return.

Lady files FIR against Sanjay Leela Bhansali !

2006-06-12T10:19:00.000+05:30

A MUMBAI court has directed police to register First Information Report (FIR) against well known film maker Sanjay Leela Bhansali and `Applause Bhansali Films` on the complaint of an antique furniture dealer, whose furniture was destroyed during the shooting of the Bollywood director`s film Black in October 2005.

Magistrate AG Mohabey of Borivali court has directed the senior police inspector of Aarey Police Station to register an FIR against Bhansali and submit a report in the case within two months, furniture dealer Farida Hoosenally`s lawyer, YP Singh said on Thursday.

Hoosenally, whose antique furniture got burnt on the sets of film `Black` had approached police in October 2005, to lodge FIR against Sanjay Leela Bhansali and officers of `Applause Bhansali Films` which had produced the movie.

She had charged Bhansali and others of criminal negligence that caused her losses to the tune of millions of rupees.

Salman Khan Is Qaidi No.210 !

Dilip Kumar gets arrest warrant.

Kajol Magic Overshadows Aamir !

2006-06-12T00:16:00.000+05:30

Whatever Aamir may or may not do to promote Fanaa doesn’t matter anymore.

It’s not that his fans don’t love him — watching Aamir is always a treat — but this time, the masses have gone hysterical watching Kajol make a comeback on the silver screen.

Crowds were seen whistling, clapping, cheering and throwing money the minute Kajol made an entry in the film.

Not only is she looking stunning, her dialogues in the film took the masses by storm.Every time she fired a powerful dialogue, people clamored for more and more.

If this is any indication, we don’t think one Kajol film a year will be enough to satiate the masses.

Yeh dil maange more, Kads!

Aamir: Bollywood's most patriotic star!

Aamir Khan demands $4.5 million from Filmfare !

Hot Lisa Ray doing a 'Girlfriend' !

2006-06-10T15:26:00.000+05:30

Earlier you watched much in controversies movie, ‘Girlfriend’ starring the hottest gals – Ishaa Koppikar and Amrita Arora.

Now prepare yourself to boil your blood and to see your breath-flow going crazy since the gal with unlimited sex appeal-exciting body and beauty model-turned actress Lisa Ray is appearing as a lesbian in a film titled ‘Can’t Think Straight’.

This movie is on alternate sexuality and will be directed by the award-winning author Shamim Sarif. Since Lisa Ray is playing lesbian role, ofcourse the flick will be dealing with the controversial subject of lesbianism.

The author turned director Shamim Sarif wanted to cast Lisa in this lead role, so she approached to her and narrated the script. But no positive sound from Lisa has emerged yet, as she is still in talks with the director.

But it is welknown that the model turned actress is very open-minded and does bold assignments. Let’s wait and see what happens on this front.

Besides her modeling and music videos, she has worked as a leading protagonist in films like ‘Qasoor’, ‘Hollywood Bollywood’ and ‘Water’.

The super model believes in a good worthy script and once has also told in an interview that she doesn’t find Bollywood fit instead she wants to do international projects of movies and that must also be with a good script.

So wait and see if this script with a lesbian character entice`s the gal.

Isha & Amrita... together again !

Esha Deol’s ‘sin-rinsing’ act!

'Bollywood Must not Endorse Colas'

2006-06-10T10:41:00.000+05:30

Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr A Ramadoss on Friday appealed to sportspersons and Bollywood stars to desist from endorsing soft drink brands, which are "detrimental" to the health of children.

"I urge the sportspersons and actors not to take advertisement assignments for the soft drink companies like the Colas and the Pepsis since they are detrimental to the health of children," Ramadoss said at the golden jubilee function of Central Food Laboratory, Kolkata.

Bollywood :Mixing Glamour With Business !

Bollywood stars to create history !

Amrita's Lovemaking Scenes With Arbaaz ?

2006-06-09T18:38:00.000+05:30

The discomfiture would have been obvious for Amrita Arora in doing intimate scenes with the husband of her sister.

Amrita was cast opposite Arbaaz Khan in director Deepak Bahry's forthcoming film, which is said to be the story of a girl’s vendetta. The movie also stars Zulfi Syed.

Reports have it that when Amrita signed the movie opposite Arbaaz – who is married to her elder sister Malaika Arora – she wasn’t aware that the film would require her to give intimate scenes with her brother-in-law.

And now when the movie’s director is gearing up to start the film, Amrita has developed cold feet and opted out of the film.

The reason for her departure from the project is her obvious discomfort in doing lovemaking scenes with her jeeju with whom she shares a very healthy and friendly relation.

On her personal front, Amrita is seeing Usman Afzaal, a 27-year-old cricketer from Nottinghamshire County in England.

Amrita Arora - The Sunshine Girl !

Amrita Arora`s HOT money making secret!

Aishwarya faces censor`s wrath !

2006-06-08T20:09:00.000+05:30

These days Aishwarya is a regular news maker.

Not for being the centre of attraction at the promotion of 'The Provoked' at Cannes but for acting in some supposedly hot scenes in Choker Bali, a bengali film.

Aishwarya is seen wearing a saree without a blouse according to the bengali tradition, a widow is dressed like that.

The censor board objected her scenes of trying to seduce a married man.

Aishwarya acted in the film on a condition that it wouldn't be dubbed into hindi but now the film is being dubbed in tamil.

Aishwarya’s loss is Rani’s gain! - 1

More bad news for Aishwarya Rai !

Priyanka Chopra asks for police protection !

2006-06-08T13:46:00.000+05:30

Hot Bollywood actress Priyanka Chopra has lodged a complaint in a police station against her former Secretary Prakash Jaju, asking for police protection against him.

She has complained that Jaju has been giving her threatening calls.

Priyanka was facing charges filed by Jaju where he alleged that he and Chopra had entered into a contract for promoting the actress in the film industry.

As per the agreement, he was entitled to 30 per cent of her earnings and a sum of Rs 30 lakh was due to him, however, she did not pay the dues.

Chopra got a reprieve in cheating cases as the Bombay High Court stayed the proceedings initiated against her in a lower court.

Andheri Magistrate had earlier issued summons to the former Miss World and asked her to answer the allegations of cheating.

A management company Akshaya Management and Services also filed a criminal complaint against the actress stating that Chopra had availed of its services and had not paid the dues.

Jaju had threatened to go to the court seeking stay on her forthcoming movie ‘Krissh’ till she pays his dues.

Body protection for Celina

Being Hot can be... dangerous!

Ready for a date with Mallika?

2006-06-08T09:53:00.000+05:30

The 7 Up brand ambassadress with ambitions of becoming curvier beckons you for a date.

The new 'Curvy' bottle launch is especially designed to lure the youth.

Keeping in tune with the buzz surrounding the launch is a new Mallika MMS campaign, supported by a contest.

140 lucky winners from across North India who find Mallika in their 7 Up bottle crowns win a chance to meet this Haryana Hurricane.

Apart from those that don’t get lucky with the Mallika caps, there are several Fido Dido merchandise up for grabs.

So? Have you got your curvy yet?

Hot Mallika getting cold?

Mallika Sherawat`s effigy burnt.

Hot Bed Scenes Embarrass Aishwarya Rai !

2006-06-07T14:22:00.000+05:30

Aishwarya embarrassed?

There's a rumour that Paul Mayeda Berges directed 'Mistress of Spices', which released a week ago in India, has a bed scene featuring Aishwarya and Hollywood hero Dylan McDermott.

Aishwarya, who due to lack of time couldn't watch the movie in full even after its release, reportedly watched it last week and if rumours to be believed after seeing her in the sexy scene, the Bollywood queen is merely feeling guilty.

So embarrassed Aishwarya even requested its producer to delete the bed scene from the movie; however as per report producer Dipak Nayar has refused to do such, which has put the actress in more tizzy situation.

According to industry sources, Aishwarya had willingly enacted these scenes. But why the embarrassment now? You guess what you can, because Aishwarya keeps mum in questions as she often does.

Aishwarya played the title role in the movie 'Mistress of Spices'; Gurinder Chaddha's husband Paul Mayeda Berges directed it.

Gurinder Chaddha, who was an associate producer of this movie, however said the scene has been presented very aesthetically, and Ash needn't to be embarrassed for that.

Aishwarya is the `Mistress Of Spices'

Aish buys rights of hollywood movies.

Who Planned Aishwarya`s Death ?

2006-06-07T13:18:00.000+05:30

If the website swellserver.com could be believed, Aishwarya Rai would probably be dead by now.

According to recent news flashed on the site Aishwarya Rai 'died in a tragic car accident'.

The story reported that the impact of the accident caused the to car roll several times, and that the actor was killed on the spot.

It said, "The vehicle was believed to have been travelling at 95 miles per hour in a 55mph zone at the time of the accident. Witnesses have stated that Aishwarya Rai’s car crossed the double lines several times prior to the accident and hit the centre lane divider causing the vehicle to flip and roll."

Several news media outlets in New York City — which has a significant Indian population — were flooded with emails and calls seeking confirmation of the "horrific news item".

The report also suggested that Rai might have been drunk. "Toxicology tests will be performed to determine whether she was driving under the influence," it said.

The report added that "memorial services for Aishwarya Rai have not yet been announced. The service is expected to be a closed casket funeral due to the severe head trauma."

The "news report" was a result of a clever piece of software on a site called www.fakeawish.com meant for surprising friends with practical jokes.

The site has developed a template for "news reports" and other pranks that help you pull a fast one on others by just replacing names. For instance, you can replace Rai’s name with another star’s, and start a new rumour.

"Aishwarya is fine and is currently in Chennai shooting for a film called Guru," said Hari Singh, Rai’s business manager.

Aishwarya injured - falls from bicycle !

Aishwarya Rai stung by bee !

Hot Sushma Reddy Aiming High !

2006-06-06T21:11:00.000+05:30

From a glamorous VJ to a simple village girl on screen, Sushma Reddy has come a long way.

She has also been lucky, having done a Priyadarshan film after her debut - the complex Chocolate.

"I just wanted to work with Priyan Sir. I didn’t expect to get such offers at this stage," says the actor over phone from Mumbai.

There isn’t much doubt that Sushma, who stars in director Priyadarshan’s Chup Chup Ke, had a lot of fun working for the film that is set to release on June 9.

In the film, she plays Pooja, who, according to her, is a "simple village girl who loves her fiancé blindly but is also very stubborn".

Sushma says she is "stubborn and determined like Pooja but otherwise there isn’t any similarity". The actor says she enjoyed sporting the minimal make-up look in the film.

Sushma is all praise for her co-stars, including Shahid Kapur (who plays Pooja’s fiancé), Kareena Kapoor, Suniel Shetty and Paresh Rawal and calls it an ensemble cast of talented people.

Having been a VJ and a model, Sushma is enjoying her stint as an actor - a learning process that she calls "intense business". She has Mahesh Manjrekar’s Big Bazaar, a film on the lives of mill workers and Puneet Issar’s next film in her kitty.

But, now, all eyes are on Chup Chup Ke. "I have high expectations from the film. It’s a different script," says Sushma.

Sameera Reddy: Victim of Bank fraud?

Sameera-Saif is the most desirable!

Gorgeous Deepika Padukone Bags Awards !

2006-05-19T01:33:00.000+05:30

The Idea Zee F Awards 2006 added glitter to Saturday night as Bollywood stars, models and fashion designers descended on Taj Lands End for the grand finale to honour excellence in Indian fashion.

The red carpet saw the likes of designers and models share their excitement for the event.

Deepika Padukone who looked gorgeous confessed, "I am quite excited to be nominated and I hope I win." Talking about her fashion statement she added, "I don’t follow trends and prefer to do my own thing."

And it definitely was not surprising to see her bag two trophies - Female Model of the year (Commercial Assignments) and Fresh Face of the year.

The copper-toned and almond-eyed Deepika Padukone symbolises the archetypal Indian beauty with a dash of Western vim.

No wonder cosmetics brand Maybelline has made her their new international cover face.

Besides, there are also rumours that Farah Khan wants to rope her in for Shah Rukh Khan’s production, ‘Happy New Year’.

Deepika Padukone Hot with Reshammiya !

Ramp goddess with Shah Rukh Khan!

Sania Mirza is 'Most Stylish Sportsperson' !

2006-05-18T19:49:00.000+05:30

Good news for tennis star Sania Mirza fans,Sania`s fashion queen status is now official !

Saturday night, Mumbai’s most fashionable lot got together for the annual fashion award ceremony at Taj Land’s End.

Conceptualised and presented by Wizcraft, the Idea Zee F Awards are organised to honour ‘excellence in fashion’ in India.

The award function recognised style in 33 different categories which included best model, best designer, most stylish youth icon, most stylish sportsperson and most stylish politician!

Hot tennis star Sania Mirza was selected unanimously for the 'Most Stylish Sportsperson' Award.

"With the Sharapovas and the Williams the tennis courts have become a place where you display a lot of fashion and make a lot of fashion statements. This is great for sports and for tennis," Mirza said.

"I am a very casual and relaxed with my clothes." She added.

Sania recently became the first Indian sportsperson to have her own signature collection, for the Italian apparel brand Lotto.

Idea Zee F Awards have once againg confirmed her style icon status.

The star-studded evening was hosted by beauty queen Dia Mirza with sizzeling performances by Fardeen Khan, Tanushree Dutta, Udita Goswami, Koena Mitra, Ganesh Hegde, Dino Morea and Onjolie Nair.

Trinidad To Honour Rajesh & Zeenat .

Bollywood Hotties-"beauty with a purpose"

Preity like you've never seen !

2006-05-18T12:32:00.000+05:30

Preity has always been a bubbly girl of Bollwood but come August and things are going to change drastically, allege the sources at Dharma production.

Preity has just finished shooting for Karan Johar's Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna (KANK) and is very excited about the role.

She believes that her role of an ambitious magazine editor in KANK is unlike anything that she has done in the past.

"I play this cold woman which wasn't easy for a warm person like me to do. Rani is a rock star. Mr Bachchan and SRK need no endorsement from me. But it is Abhishek who takes the cake. I truly feel that Abhishek is the star of tomorrow," she gushes.

KANK is scheduled for release in August 2006.

Preity Zinta still available for marriage.

Preity Zinta Sizzled on the Turf !

Deepika Padukone Hot with Reshammiya !

2006-05-18T01:49:00.000+05:30

This could have been as unusual as it gets, but guess what; it is working in a big way!

Himesh Reshammiya and model Deepika Padukone pairing up with each other and dancing to the groove! Now how many would have indeed expected it to turn into a reality? And that too with successful results!

But that has really happened in a rocking manner as the two come together for the music video of remix version of 'Naam Hai Tera' from Reshammiya's superhit album 'Aap Ka Surroor'.

Innocatively shot in bottle green shades on the sets of a battleground, this Prashant Chaddha video has everything from barbed wires to missiles to army trucks to explosions to LOTS of attitude as Reshammiya and Deepika dance along passionately with horde of dancers in the background.

Deepika manages to make a strong impact in the video and sends a message loud and clear to the industry that she is there to stay.

Incidentally the song has fetched the best response for the album after other hit numbers such as 'Tera Surroor', slower version of 'Naam Hai Tera' and 'Samjho Na'. courtsey indiaglitz

Ramp goddess with Shah Rukh Khan!

Pappu Sardar`s 'Madhuri Dixit Calendar' !

2006-05-17T10:20:00.000+05:30

Fans are a unique breed,they always try to come up with out of the world ideas to show the appreciation for their favourite stars.

One Madhuri Dixit fan has come up with an unique idea on her 39th birthday.

Pappu Sardar, who owns a small eatery in Jamshedpur, has launched a calendar, with the year beginning from 15th May — Madhuri’s birthday.

His financial year will begin May 15 2006 and end on May 14 2007.

This fan of Mads had been trying to bring out this calendar for the last five years, but no one would print it. Now he’s found a printer and the calendar was launched two days ago.

Sardar also seems to think that Madhuri’s birthday should be declared a holiday and has appealed to the government for the same.

His appeal to Bollywood: name 15th May as Bollywood Day.

This fan’s heart sure goes dhak dhak for the Ek do teen girl.

Madhuri Is Very Beautiful & Sexy !

Madhuri plans a Bollywood return.

Kareena Kapoor's Fan Attempts Suicide !

2006-05-16T19:44:00.000+05:30

Aashiq Awara !!

Mohammed Mairaj Rehman (25), who was accused of harassing Kareena Kapoor, Poonam Dhillon and Smriti Mishra through SMSes and phone calls, tried to kill himself in Hyderabad when the Mumbai police went there to arrest him.

Rehman jumped from his third-floor residence in Hyderabad on March 24 and fractured both his legs. He was brought to Mumbai and admitted to Cooper Hospital, Juhu, on March 25.

The three actresses had filed different complaints against Rehman in October 2005. He was arrested the same month and released on bail in January. Rehman then left for Hyderabad and did not attend court hearings.

“Not only did Rehman not attend court, but he also started harassing a female artiste called Sapna and Kareena’s secretary Zahid Khan.

Because of this, the court cancelled his bail and we went to arrest him,” said Investigating Officer Inspector Samad Sheikh of Bandra police station.

However, Rehman believes he was re-arrested, as Kareena had not withdrawn her case.

“I believed Kareena had withdrawn her case against me, as she had told the media that she had forgiven me. Therefore I attempted suicide. When I asked the police why they were re-arresting me, they did not reply. They also did not allow me to contact my lawyer,” Rehman said from his hospital bed.

Rehman will be produced before the court after he recovers.

Body protection for Celina

Man Becomes A Tailor For Aishwarya !

Kareena-Shahid Kiss is now 'CHUMBAN' !

2006-05-15T22:14:00.000+05:30

Bollywood filmmakers have always been inspired by sensational real life incidents like Anara`s blue film scandal and others.

But we thought that the makers of a film called 'Chumban – The Kiss' went a bit overboard when it comes to being inspired by real life incidents.

Remember the sensational Kareena-Shahid kiss that was captured on the mobile phone camera? The one, which was later, splashed across tabloids and news channels alike?

Well, it appears that the makers of this film have lost no time in capitalizing on the incident. Much to the chagrin of the couple in question, we’re sure.

A steamy smooch between the lead couple of the film has been plastered across its publicity material.

But that’s not the best, or rather the worst part.

Just on top of the poster is the tag line ‘Kari-Na Shadi Se Pehle… The Kiss’.

Now it would not take a brain surgeon to figure who they are referring to.

Well inspiration does comes out in different forms. And there is obviously no limit to Bollywood imagination,poor Kareena-Shahid....the MMS was bad enough but now a film like 'Chumban'...life is really not fair !

Sushmita Sen - Uncomfortable KISSSING!!!

Fardeen & Natasha - the wedding kiss!

Kareena`s New Hot & Sexy Look !

2006-05-15T01:39:00.000+05:30

Kareena Kapoor will be doing away with all the boring cotton saris that she adorned in the recently released Kyon Ki.

She has got a whole new look in Abbas-Mustan’s 36 China Town.

The fashionable actress will be wearing extremely short skirts throughout the movie.

The man behind the hot & sexy look is her favorite designer, Manish Malhotra.

Now that sounds quite promising,with '36 China Town' getting rave reviews... Kareena`s hot new look will be a added bonus in the movie.We’re sure that it is something that all Kareena fans look forward to.

Kareena in her Hottest role!

Kareena Kapoor on Maxim Magazine cover.

Bollywood`s Pakistani Talent Hunt.

2006-05-14T22:23:00.000+05:30

Bollywood director Shashi Ranjan has arrived in Lahore to oversee a massive talent hunt there.

The hunt has been launched to choose a young male actor, an actress and a singer for his new Indo-Pakistan feature film.

‘And the response, in one word, is overwhelming. I never thought there were so many youngsters in Pakistan waiting to give expression to their talents.

We have restricted the age group for the young Pakistani lead between 19 and 25. The enthusiasm has to be seen to be believed,’ says Ranjan.

For the talent hunt, Shashi Ranjan has tied up with a leading cellphone company, Warid, and a major television channel, GEO.

The talent hunt contest will be telecast live on May 20 in Pakistan and all the countries where GEO is beamed.

Bollywood fans are eagerly waiting to see many more beautiful and hot Pakistani actresses like Zeba and Meera on screen.

Mallika or Meera?

Big Bucks Call Bollywood To Pakistan !

Mallika's Burkha Drama At Airport !

2006-05-14T15:32:00.000+05:30

It`s true: Mallika Sherawat refused to take off an article of her clothing.

Bollywood stars like Salman Khan, John Abraham, Mallika Sherawat, Zayed Khan, Esha Deol, Kareena Kapoor are all part of the Rockstar troupe and were leaving for a tour to the UK, USA and Canada.

While departing for the show Mallika arrived in a burkha at the airport with her brother Vikram and another male companion.

And when officials at the counter asked her to show her face for identification before boarding she threw a tantrum and refused to take the burkha off.

Says an eyewitness "She refused to lift her burkha till her manager sorted it out with the airport officials."

Mallika’s burkha-clad figure is a common sight for airport authorities. But strangely, sometimes, she chooses to wear a burkha, and sometimes, she doesn’t.

Anyways reports are that the Rockstar Show has been a very big hit and 'The Boardwalk Hall' in Atlantic City was filled to capacity when Mallika Sherawat performed a sizzling number with Zayed Khan.

Mallika refused to fly with Shahrukh !

Mallika Sherawat`s effigy burnt.

Mallika Sherawat Bares All !

2006-05-12T22:52:00.000+05:30

Just when all other actresses are stealing Mallika’s ‘look’.The Bollywood’s proverbial sex bomb has blasted again.

Cineblitz has dared to post Mallika, almost nude, on the cover page of its May edition.

Mallika as featured under a thin white cloth making her assets almost visible.

Well, the photo undoubtedly exposes Mallika’s sinuous curves.

We agree she is looking stunning. Kudos to the make-up man Clint Fernandes and stylist Rakhi Sawant.

The magazine also features an article that compares Mallika to the Hollywood legend Marilyn Monroe.

Mallika`s latest 'expose' has created quite a stir in the industry,and has given more strength to the rumours that Mallika may be appearing nude very soon on screen.

Mallika To Bare All For Jackie & Mel ?

Mallika Ka Jadoo at Cannes.

More bad news for Aishwarya Rai !

2006-05-12T19:16:00.000+05:30

After the Mistress Of Spices setback there is more bad news for Aishwarya Rai and her fans.

The beautiful actress has been nudged out of Time's 100 Most Influential People in the World list.

By fellow Indians; Infosys President Nandan Nilekani, who has been called "the Indian at the centre of the global economy" and New York-based entrepreneur Vikram Akula, who has been recognised for "finding novel ways of supporting India's poor".

Knowing Aishwarya's resilience and fightback qualities, we are sure she will bounce back.

Aishwarya is the `Mistress Of Spices'

Aishwarya’s loss is Rani’s gain! - 1

Bollywood Parties On Terrorist Hit-List !

2006-05-12T18:54:00.000+05:30

Now Hot and happening Bollywood parties are the new terrorist targets !

Along with the Underworld another Terror has come to haunt Bollywood, and this time in a much more deadlier form.

The two Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists nabbed in New Delhi on Monday conspired to bomb three Bollywood parties in Mumbai, revealed a highly-placed source in the Intelligence Bureau.

Feroz Latif Ghaswala and Ali Mohmmad Chippa had short-listed three filmi parties.

"Their targets were Bollywood parties to be organised in five and seven star hotels between May 12 and May 25 at Juhu, Santacruz (E) and Bandra," said the source.

"Assassinating a political figure involves a lot of planning, however, it’s easy to gatecrash filmi dos and can also have an impact," added the source.

"We are unaware of the duo’s background. They wanted to target Bollywood personalities as the magnitude of the attack would be far greater and would also get them more attention than their usual targets," said Senior Inspector Anti-Terrorist Squad Sunil Deshmukh.

Terrorists bombing Bollywood parties may seem like an ideal plot for a hit Bollywod suspense drama,but when a bombing threat comes koncking right at the doors...the horror may be to much for the Bollywood Stars to face.

Bollywood 'dancing to Dawood tune

'Bollywood reacts to the videoclip.

Amrita Arora - The Sunshine Girl !

2006-05-10T02:04:00.000+05:30

Guess what Amrita Arora is called by her mom and sister Malaika? Sunshine!

“We nicknamed Amrita sunshine as she’s always bright and shining, radiating positive energy wherever she goes,” says Amu’s mom.

And that’s also the glowing complexion ki raaz, informs Amu.

“Think healthy, positive thoughts all the time and you will look great.” Some of the actresses please take note.

Amrita is currently shooting for Vikram Bhatt’s Red.

“You must come and check out my new look. I am wearing a nose ring for the first time. It’s looking awesome!” says Amu.

Amrita Arora - going great guns !

Amrita Arora`s HOT money making secret!

Abhishek’s Ultimatum To Aish !

2006-05-10T01:43:00.000+05:30

A little birdie tells us that Abhishek was quite unhappy with Mama Rai’s recent outburst in a newspaper.

The Bachchan bachcha called Ash and made it quite clear-
“Make sure this doesn’t happen again. I don’t want any member of your family talking about me, us or my family. My family has always maintained a low-profile when it comes to our personal lives, and I’d like to continue that.”

The message was firm and the tone angry, so don’t expect the Rais to be talking any time soon.

Abhishek & Aishwarya Split !

Bollywood Joins Protest`s Over Sex-Scandal !

2006-05-08T19:16:00.000+05:30

By joining protests over the Srinagar Sex Racket Bollywood has once again proved that the industry is always at the forefront to support a cause and help people.

Bollywood’s top notch filmmakers have written to Congress president Sonia Gandhi, seeking stern action against the ‘‘politicians and senior police officers involved in the scam".

Top Bollywood producer directors, including Mahesh Bhat, Ashok Pandit and Sudhir Mishra, on Saturday dispatched a letter to Sonia Gandhi, asking her to ensure that ‘‘culprits in the sex abuse scam are brought to book. And in case the justice is not done they have decided to come to Kashmir and join the protests here".

‘‘Yes we have written a letter to Ms Gandhi asking her to intervene and ensure that the influential people, including politicians, bureaucrats and senior police officers, involved in it are brought to book," said producer Ashok Pandit.

‘‘Since J-K is ruled by a Congress-led government and so she has an additional responsibility.’’

‘‘Though the letter was signed by three of us, but we have the support of everybody in the industry against this crime," he added.

The filmmakers said that such scams have rocked other parts of country too but only in Kashmir has the anger spilled onto the streets. ‘‘MMS controversies rocked several parts of India but there has never been such protests. We congratulate the Kashmiris for showing their resentment against such incidents,’’ Pandit said.

‘‘For so many years, police have been trying to hush up such cases. In Jammu, when the Anara Gupta case surfaced, the role of the police had come under the scanner and the same story is being repeated in Srinagar.’’

Sex-Scandal Rocks J & K !

Anara:Blue film to Bollywood flick.

Maushmi Udeshi-New Hottie In Bollywood !

2006-05-07T15:20:00.000+05:30

Nescafe Girl Maushmi Udeshi is creating huge waves in Bollywood.

Maushmi zapped many up coming starlets due to an item number that she did with Akshay Kumar, Govinda and Paresh Rawal in Priyadarshan’s upcoming comedy ‘Bhaagam Bhaag’.

The adroit Udeshi looks confident that once her debut film ‘Lips – The Kiss of Death’ is released, she will be swathed with many big offers.

But one thing is for sure, she is already in talks with good banners prior to release and Priyadarshan’s Bhaagam Bhaag is a vivid proof of this.

Some music videos with Bollywood’s greats are also geared up to come out on screen, which she has done recently but maintains silence in disclosing the information before time.

You have witnessed this gal’s talents in Bally Sagoo’s hit music video of ‘Noorie’ and in print and TV ads.

Kiss Of Death Gets ' A' From Censors !

Bangladesi Champa Eyes Bollywood.

2006-05-07T14:20:00.000+05:30

Having acted for Buddhadeb Dasgupta in Lal Dorja and Gautam Ghose in Abar Aranye, Bangladeshi actress Champa Khan is eyeing more meaty roles in Indian cinema.

Her Indian film Lal Dorja was nominated for the Oscars.

In Ghose's Abar Aranye, a continuation of well-known Bengali filmmaker Satyajit Ray's Aranyer Din Ratri (Days and Night In The Forest), she shared the screen space with the likes of Sharmila Tagore, Soumitra Chatterjee, Rupa Ganguly, Shomit Bhanja and Tabu.

"It definitely was a proud moment being selected for the movies of such high standards when there were plenty of good Indian actors who could have done the roles,"she said.

Champa, who started her acting journey with "Babita" and has worked in 300 Bangladeshi films so far, now wants to spend more time with her family and close friends.

"I have dedicated most of my adult life to movies. I want to enjoy the flavour of normal life again."

Legendary Composer 'Naushad' Dies !

2006-05-05T22:07:00.000+05:30

One of Bollywood's best known music composers, Naushad Ali, has died at the age of 86.

The veteran composer died after suffering from a heart attack in the western Indian city of Mumbai where he had been in hospital.

Naushad composed scores for some of Bollywood's biggest hits.

One of his classics, Mughal-e-Azam, recently became the first Bollywood film to be officially released in Pakistan in decades.

Apart from Mughal-e-Azam (1960), he composed the music for Andaz (1949), Baiju Bawra (1952), Mother India (1957) and Pakeezah - the Pure One (1971).

Director Akbar Khan's recent release Taj Mahal, was recently released in Pakistan, was his last work as music director.

Dhoni Is More Busy Than A Bollywood Star !

2006-05-04T06:39:00.000+05:30

So what do you do when you are India's most sought after cricketer and are in between series?

Well the answer is simple, you shoot advertisements and honour sponsor commitments.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni has been the toast of the season, a rising star whose market value has risen by leaps and bounds.

His match winning performances have corporates lining up to get him to endorse their products.

As the Indian cricket team takes a break after a long season, it is time for Dhoni to fulfill promises of a different nature.

Says Pushpinder Singh from Videocon, "Dhoni personifies the new age in Indian cricket team where on a given day, anybody can be a match winner. India has come of age as a business force to reckon with. Videocon is a part of aggressive Indian companies with global ambitions, which they have shown with acquisitions in the past. And we thought this was a good fit."

Since the last match against Pakistan played on the 19th of April, Dhoni has been shooting non stop.

His schedule is possibly as busy as of any Bollywood star.

Says fashion designer, Aparna Chandra, who has designed Dhoni’s outfit, "I kept it very simple, very young, very trendy, which is what he is. He is a very young and talented cricketer. I feel there’s no need to overstyle him."

As soon as Dhoni’s current round of shooting ends, he would take a break before the Indian team assembles on the 10th of May to go to West Indies. CNN IBN

Trinidad To Honour Rajesh & Zeenat .

2006-05-02T23:07:00.000+05:30

Yesteryear superstar Rajesh Khanna and former glam girl Zeenat Aman will be honoured at the eighth annual Bollywood Movie Awards in Trinidad and Tobago for their outstanding contribution to Indian cinema.

The function will be held on June 10.

Bollywood Awards has been organised every year for the last eight years to honour movie artists from India for best performances.

This year some well-known Bollywood stars, including Akshay Kumar, Urmila Matondkar, Karisma Kapoor and Alisha Chinoy will perform at the function.

Hot Sunidhi Chauhan To Rock Singapore !

2006-05-02T21:04:00.000+05:30

Come May 19 and Singaporeans will be rocking to a different tune - this time to the foot-tapping music from Bollywood. Setting them on fire will be hot Bollywood sensation, Sunidhi Chauhan.

The concert titled "Dus Bahane Dhoom Machale" will be held in the Esplanade Theatre.

Indipop sensation KK will also join Sunidhi in the show.

The Singapore concert will be Sunidhi's fourth in the last three months after holding successful shows in Melbourne, Hong Kong and Muscat.

In Melbourne, Sunidhi was part of the Indian troupe of musicians who performed at the closing ceremony of the 18th Commonwealth Games.

"It was amazing," she said. "The Australians were singing along with me. It was the best show in my entire career."

An ardent fan of Mariah Carey and Michael Jackson, Sunidhi enjoys western pop as much as "desi" tunes. "I am inspired by these singers and performers," she admitted.

Interestingly, she herself is quite a spectacular performer on stage. "I just go mad on the stage," she said.

Sunidhi's latest and forthcoming releases include 'Fanaah', 'Don', 'Gangster' and '36 China Town'

Seventh IIFA Awards To Be Held In Dubai.

2006-05-01T00:48:00.000+05:30

Megastar Amitabh Bachchan has expressed the hope that IIFA awards, which will be held in Dubai in June, would open new doors for Bollywood in various parts of the world and the industry will successfully compete with Hollywood.

Noting that Hollywood films are the second largest items exported from the US after aeroplanes, he told the media here yesterday that despite India being largest film producing nation in the world with its cinema watched by more than 3.6 billion people a year, its figures do not match with Hollywood at all.

"If there are so many people watching Indian films and if we are catering to people in different parts of the world, of different culture, then I think people should accept our cinema. People need to know about our cinema. And perhaps, one day, we may compete with Hollywood as well,"

"It is with this confidence that IIFA (International Indian Film Academy) is moving forward in the world and we are organising it in Dubai, which is second home to us," he said.

Earlier, he announced that the seventh IIFA Weekend would be held in Dubai from June 14 to 17.

Hosted by the Dubai Summer Surprises, the four-day IIFA Weekend will present a series of events including world premiere of an Indian film, global business forum, charity fund-raiser fashion show, workshop, film festival and a star-studded IIFA Awards presentation ceremony.

When asked why IIFA chose Dubai as the venue, Bachchan said that Indian cinema has a large distribution network of Hindi cinema in the Middle East.

Madhuri Is Very Beautiful & Sexy !

2006-04-30T03:40:00.000+05:30

Madhuri is beautiful, nobody will deny that.

But when the compliment comes from one of the most beautiful faces of the industry, it's somehow very special.

In a recent interview, Katrina Kaif said she finds Madhuri very beautiful and sexy on screen.

"Although I haven't met Madhuri Dixit in person, I find her very beautiful on screen. I also find Manisha Koirala beautiful," said Katrina.

How does she describe herself?"Moody... and a Cancerian to the boot. Even a small thing can change the entire mood, but I'm working on that. Besides, I'm also loyal and possessive," quipped Katrina.

Hey Salman, be careful of your possessive lover.

Bollywood :Mixing Glamour With Business !

2006-04-29T11:25:00.000+05:30

Stung by the penniless end of some of Bollywood's former giants, a new generation of Indian movie stars is turning entrepreneurial to cushion the financial blow of life away from the limelight.

Even with the Bollywood movie industry tipped to grow at 16 per cent a year to 2010, actors have opened restaurants and launched fashion and hotel chains to invest the earnings from their precarious movie careers.

Not all have been successful.

India's biggest star Amitabh Bachchan's production house folded with losses of 900 million rupees (US$20 million) in the late 1990s, but a number have emerged successfully, aided by a dash of glamour and a ready following of fans turned customer.

Bollywood stars showed little acumen for businesses until the 1990s but the opening of India's economy has encouraged many to put their own money behind their business plans.

One of the pioneers was Mithun Chakraborty, a leading Bollywood actor of the 1980s who started his own hotel business in southern India.

"I made this move when the going was good for me in the film industry. I was one of the top actors then and was doing very well in my career," he says.

"But at the time I wondered, 'what will happen to me after the lights, camera and action go?' I needed to do something other than acting and therefore I decided to venture into the hotel business."

Since Chakraborty, many have followed including actor Bobby Deol, who has opened a chain of restaurants in the western metropolis of Mumbai.

Former Miss World and Bollywood actress, Sushmita Sen, launched her own company with plans to make movies and enter the hotel and health spa industry.

Some actors cite the cases of former greats of Indian screen, who died penniless and lonely after extravagant spending during their successful years drove them into poverty.

The 1950s superstar Bhagwan rose to fame from a childhood in a one-room home in Mumbai but a string of investments meant he died in the 1990s poor again and broken-hearted.

Ramsays Horror Is Back !

2006-04-29T10:44:00.000+05:30

A haunted house, an old watchman, eternal fog and the forever echoing voice of a woman desperately seeking vengeance.

The Ramsays' are back with their mission to scare the nation.

The makers of spooky hair-raising films are back to their forte of horror films after 10 long years .

The film is titled 'Aatma' and though the production values of the film do not sound too impressive, the starcast is still reasonable with actors like Kapil Jhaveri [Dil Pardesi Ho Gaya, Saawan - The Love Season], newcomer Amriena (Miss Chandigarh), Neha, Mukesh Tiwari and Sadashiv Amrapurkar.

Other notable factor about the film is its music that is composed by none other than Anu Malik.

Director Deepak Ramsay is already busy shooting the promotional video of the film in Mumbai's Chandivali studios. "Times have changed and promos are more important than the product," he said.

It's the rise of Satan in Bollywood in the month of May as Ram Gopal Verma's Darna Zaroori Hai and actress Sarika's sleek witch craft in Sacred Evil give competition to Ramsay's Aatma.

But even while they're caught up in a web of competition, the pioneers of horror film, Ramsays, have more faith in their ghosts than the stars to pull in the crowds.

"Stars don't necessarily pull audiences where horror films are concerned," Deepak Ramsay said.

The Ramsays are hoping to win back their reputation of successful horror filmmakers but their filmy ghosts seems to have failed to evolve with the times.

So, even if the same ugly beast manages to evoke laughter after fear wears away, its nostalgia that will hopefully pull the crowds to the theatres.

"Sex Sells No More" - Meghna Naidu !

2006-04-27T22:38:00.000+05:30

Meghna 'Hawas' Naidu is the latest Bollywood sex bomb all set to shed her sexy image.

The sexy actress's last film 'Rain' in spite of having all steamy scenes in it has bombed at the box office.

So no more skin show, that's the motto, sexy Meghna Naidu has adopted newly.

In a recent interview, she said, "Sex sells no more. If it did then all the movies after 'Hawas' would have been super hits. There is sex and glamour in every film, but no film has been able to leave an impact over box office."

When asked, if she is offered a Hollywood film and asked to expose, what she would do, she said, "I would say 'no' to the film. As far as exposing is concerned, whatever I have done in the past is over. Now I want to do good work."

Remember Aishwarya Rai has already refused to expose even if it is a Hollywood film.

May be Meghna truly wants to follow Aishwarya's footsteps...but dear Meghna....Aishwarya has her famed beauty and considerable acting skills to offer...what have u? other than your Hot Body.

Abhishek & Aishwarya Split !

2006-04-26T14:34:00.000+05:30

After a whirlwind romance and insiders predicting marriage, it’s now finally the end of the Ash-Abhishek romance saga according to reports doing the round.

Bollywood’s latest ‘it’ couple, Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai, have split.

According to close family sources, the Bachchans decided against their marriage after it was discovered that Ash was manglik (with a strong influence of the planet Mangal, or Mars, in her astrological chart) and would cast a dark shadow on her husband’s career.

According to an insider, the Bachchans are a very superstitious family, and didn’t want to take any chances with their bachcha’s career. The Bachchan beta had just tasted success, and they didn’t want anything to mar that.

The negative vibes Abhishek attracted from his fans after his Ash chapter was another factor in the end of this prem kahaani.

Says a source close to the family, "Amitabh Bachchan was always against the marriage. Jaya had accepted it with resignation, because of Abishek.

But momma Bachchan told people that if Ash and Abhishek did get married, they would stay separately; and not at Jalsa, with the family. If that happened, it wouldn’t have taken them much time to split up.

Because Abhishek is a very strong-willed person, and doesn’t listen to anyone except his parents.

Till more than two weeks ago, everything was fine between Ash and Abhishek. Ash had been talking to her close friends about marrying him. She had even mentioned how actresses were calling Ashutosh Gowariker and telling him to give her role to them, as she was getting married.

Ash had laughed and said, ‘They are talking as if I will give up my work after marriage’. Abhishek, too, had told some of his director friends that he would do their films if they signed Ash opposite him.

Then came the crunch, when the Bachchans discovered Ash was manglik.

Anybody with a strong Mangal in their chart casts a negative impact on their spouse’s career.

But the Bachchans had accepted that. All they wanted was a havan to be conducted by Ash’s family, which the Rais initially agreed to. But they backed out at the last moment.

In fact Aditya, Ash’s brother, doesn’t believe in astrology, and asked her not to follow it.

Not doing the havan upset Jaya; she categorically told the Rais that it would either be their way, or no way.

However, whether the couple will let their families decide their fate or make their personal decisions remains to be seen.

Big Bucks Call Bollywood To Pakistan !

2006-04-25T08:46:00.000+05:30

With a star-studded delegation on its way to Pakistan for the first Indian film to be commercially released in 41 years, serious business is on the agenda.

Akbar Khan's Taj Mahal — an eternal love story will be released in Lahore on April 26.

The 38-member delegation, which includes tourism and culture minister Ambika Soni, actor Mahesh Bhatt and the film's cast, hopes to raise issues such as the ban on Indian TV channels and cultural exchanges like art exhibitions and film festivals.

"We, in India, like to see Pakistani plays and people in Pakistan like to see Indian films. But at the moment, it happens through pirated DVDs. As part of our dialogue and CBMs, we can formalise the exchange of such material," said Soni, who will attend the premiere of Taj Mahal.

She said India has always been very open to Pakistani artistes. "Ghazal singers, painters and other artistes from Pakistan have always easily been given visa by India. We hope that Pakistan will show reciprocity and the people-to-people relations between the two countries improves," the minister said.

Soni is carrying a letter from PM Manmohan Singh and Sonia Gandhi for president Pervez Musharraf. The letters will be given to the Indian High Commission there.

"The key issues that the film industry will be addressing include a release window for Indian films, shooting arrangements, co-production agreements similar to the ones penned with UK and Italy, and lifting the ban on TV channels," Mahesh Bhatt said.

Taj Mahal's director Akbar Khan said, "There is a lot of potential for exchanges. It is a positive move not just for our industry, but also for the Pakistani film industry".

Pakistan has a lot to offer in terms of actors, lyricists and writers and we can help the Pakistani film industry in the technical aspects," he said.

Hero, Heroine Aur Bikini !

2006-04-24T12:17:00.000+05:30

Exotic locales and sizzling hot babes gyrating in skimpy bikinis - Bollywood filmmakers seem to have found the mantra to add that extra sizzle to their films to include at least one song with a few dozen bikini-clad girls dancing like there's no tomorrow.

When Esha Deol stepped out of the water in Dhoom a la Bo Derek, she more than managed to change her image. From the cute girl-next-door, she suddenly became a sex symbol and her luck at the box office too improved.

Aishwarya Rai is set to sizzle in a swimsuit in Dhoom 2! Celina Jaitley, who has no qualms about donning a bikini, agrees. "I am comfortable with my body and if I know I'm not being shot in a sleazy way, I'm okay with wearing a bikini," she says.

From the ones worn by Sharmila Tagore to the ones worn by Zeenat Aman and now Mallika Sherawat, bikinis have come a long way as far as fashion is concerned.

They are more plunging and the cuts are well-defined. Also you get a variety of them including some with shell work, embroidered and more glamorous ones."

So Guys bikinis are here to stay and hopfully more and more hot babes will sizzle on the screen taking a cue from Esha and Celina...so enjoy the show while it lasts.

Arrest Warrants Against Shilpa and Reema !

2006-04-23T13:09:00.000+05:30

More Bollywood stars seem to be in trouble, in an yet another true Bollywood drama, actresses Reema Sen and Shilpa Shetty have been issued non-bailable warrants.

A court in Madurai has issued warrants against the Bollywood actors for obscenely posing in photographs for a Tamil evening newspaper, Tamil Marasu.

The court has also issued a non-bailable warrant against the editor of the newspaper, Murugan.

Earlier on February 15, Judicial Magistrate II Seetharaman had issued summons to the actors and the editor based on a petition filed by T Dhakshinamoorthy, an advocate.

The Judge had earlier ordered them to appear on March 10. But the Sen and Shetty didn’t bother to budge.

The summonses were also published in newspapers in Hindi and English, but the actors failed to appear in the court.

The petitioner had submitted before the court that the paper had had carried "sexy blow ups" and "medium posters" in Tamil Marasu’s issues for seven days in December, 2005 and January, 2006.

This has violated Section 3 and 4 of the Indecent Representation of women (prohibition) Act and Sec 3 of Young persons Harmful Publications Act and IPC sec 292 (Sale of Obscene books), the petition said.

Apart from "misleading the youth, the pictures would also increase violence against women", the petition added.

Connected Post : Obscene photos put Shilpa & Reema in dock.

The new Big B of cinema !

2006-04-22T10:56:00.000+05:30

Bollywood stars are going Bhojpuri with a vengeance and profit!

The jinx has been broken. The stars are finally shining down and literally so on Bhojpuri films.

And with Big B too walking in with the likes of Ajay Devgan, Hema Malini, Shatrughan Sinha, Priya Gill, Nagma... the list is endless, stars as well as viewers are taking a relook at this genre of cinema.

In fact, it has today risen from the status of being Bollywood’s poor country cousin, to one that comes a close second, what with currently almost 500 films on the floor!

"Mera ab dream-come-true hone wala hai,"exults Manoj Tewari, a popular hero who is slated to share screen space with Amitabh Bachchan. Manoj who has several hits to his credit, could not have imagined this would happen one day. "

It is the simple storyline that appeals and then look at the viewership.

From UP, Bihar to Rajasthan, Gujarat, even Punjab and South India, right up to Mauritius West-Indies and rest of the world, the market is truly vast.... read more

Aishwarya injured - falls from bicycle !

2006-04-21T18:34:00.000+05:30

Bollywood actress and former Miss World, Aishwarya Rai fell from a bicycle while shooting at Badami in Karnataka's Bagalkote district on Friday and suffered "minor abrasions", police sources said.

"She suffered minor abrasions in the leg. She was given treatment and there is nothing to worry", a police official said from Bagalkote.

Aishwaraya was shooting for Mani Ratnam-directed Guru in which she is playing the lead role along with actor Abhishek Bachchan.

Guru is said to be a historical film set in the backdrop of India's first struggle for Independence.

"Mallika is a Hard Worker"-Rahul Bose.

2006-04-20T21:05:00.000+05:30

money,money,money,money,money,money,money,money,money,money,money,money,money
Bollywood sex symbol Mallika Sherawat is an earnest worker and a delight to work with, says her co-star Rahul Bose.

Screen siren Sherawat is known for scantily clad appearances - both on and off the screen.

Rahul is seen as a "serious'' actor who stars in Indian art-house films rather than mainstream commercial Bollywood releases.

But the two are appearing in a romantic comedy titled "Pyar Ke Side Effects'', or "The Side
Effects of Love,'' in which Rahul plays a man petrified of committing to a relationship.

"I had gone to work on the sets with much apprehension. But she turned out to be a delight,'' Rahul said.

"No attitude, no tantrums. She is fully focused on her work and is very hardworking.''

"Who would've thought I'd be cast opposite Mallika Sherawat? It seems as unlikely as me and Kareena Kapoor in "Chameli,'' Rahul said, referring to the movie in which he plays a wealthy businessman who meets a prostitute played by Kareena.

Well...Rahul sure is lucky to have worked with two of the hottest actresses in Bollywood,we hope he works more in the mainstream Hindi cinema and reaches a wider audience.

All the best Rahul for "The Whisperers"... friends this is the name of Rahul`s new thriller flick scheduled for release this year.
money,money,money,money,money,money,money,money,money,

Akshay-Katrina Hot In UK !

2006-04-19T19:47:00.000+05:30

Newly released Bollywood film Humko Deewana Kar Gaye, starring Akshay Kumar, Katrina Kaif, Bipasha Basu and Anil Kapoor, has made it to the coveted UK Top 10 list.

According to industry sources, the gross from its previews and 4-day Easter weekend was 219,981 pounds (approx Rs 1.77 crore).

With this title, UTV, the distributor, gives Akshay Kumar his highest ever solo opening in the UK.

The opening of the film was even bigger than director Raj Kanwar's previous release, Andaaz, which too had fared well in the UK.

The film ranks above Western titles such as Hostel, The Pink Panther, Yours, Mine and Ours, The Squid and The Whale and The Dark, the sources said...TOI

No more Skin Show for Neha Dhupia !

2006-04-18T10:52:00.000+05:30

When it comes to retracting from one's own statements, Neha Dhupia surely masters the art.

The lady who made headlines with her statement 'Only Sex or SRK sell in Bollywood', when her film Julie released, doesn't seem to be in tune with what she said anymore.

"I don't adhere to that statement anymore. Things change, ideologies change. You have to move ahead with time."

Dhupia is seriously looking for an image makeover. Thus when asked what skin show for her is, she retorts, "For me skin show is a thing of the past, which doesn't exist any more."

Wow! Talk about chameleons!

But ask the hot, former Miss India whether she misses her modelling days, and she quips, "Not at all. I'm happy acting in Bollywood and there are no plans to go back to modelling. Though films happened to me by chance, perhaps it was destined and now I love being an actor."

Hot Mallika getting cold?

2006-04-17T19:07:00.000+05:30

Summer's here and both Pepsi and Coke are stepping up their campaigns with the biggest names in the business.

After Shah Rukh, Aishwarya and Aamir, now 'hot' Mallika Sherawat, has joined the list of cold drink ambassadors.

So will Mallika send the cash registers ringing for Pepsi, which has signed her up for its Seven Up brand?

We'll wait and see, but Fido Dido had better watch out! ....read more

Why Katrina couldn't meet Salman

2006-04-13T12:09:00.000+05:30

Salman Khan's bail plea comes up for hearing on Thursday in a Jodhpur court.
The Bollywood actor spent the last three nights in the Jodhpur Central jail where family members and and friends from the film fraternity flew in from Mumbai.

District Judge G S Surana will hear Salman’s arguments before taking a decision on his bail petition.

Though the Bollywood star has hired a fresh set of lawyers to fight his case, the bail application was presented in the court by Hastimal Saraswat, who has fought his case so far.

He cited 38 reasons for an early hearing of the bail application, including his mother’s sickness, before the court.

Meanwhile Salman's closest buddies from Bollywood landed at the Jodhpur Central jail to express their solidarity with the star.

Salman’s girlfriend, model-turned-actress Katrina Kaif arrived by an afternoon flight, dressed in a sea-green salwar-kurta.

However, the actress was a tad too late and was not permitted to meet Salman.

As per the jail norms, a convict is not allowed more than three visitors in a fortnight.

Bollywood actor and MP Govinda, filmmakers David Dhawan and Sajid Nadiadwala also flew down to Jodhpur and appealed for a fair trial

"I believe that this issue must not be looked at in parts, but as a whole, and a solution must be found to this from a human point of view," Govinda said.

Salman's brother Sohail Khan and sister Alvira, who had reached Jodhpur on Tuesday, visited Ajmer Sharif to seek blessings for their brother.

Meanwhile, Salman's mother Salma Khan spent her third day recuperating at the Lilavati hospital.

Salma had taken ill on Monday shortly after the verdict in Salman's case was announced.

The ailing mother had several visitors from the film fraternity including a surprise visit by actor Vivek Oberoi – Salman’s former love-rival.

Salman Khan Is Qaidi No.210 !

2006-04-12T08:21:00.000+05:30

Qaidi No. 210 is not the title of Salman Khan`s latest film,but the prisoner number given to him by Jodhpur Central Jail, where he is being held far far away from the glitz and glamour of Bollywood.

He is being lodged in Barrack No.15 with Mahesh Sharma who is serving life term for murder.

Since he was hauled away from court,staring at a five year term for killing the endangered chinkra,Salman has shared the 40feet by 30 feet cell,with only a fan for comfort.

"We are unaffected by celebrity," jail superintendent M L Chouhan declared firmly on Tuesday adding that Salman was treated like an ordinary prisoner.

This morning, the actor asked for newspapers which were provided to him, the official said.

Salman has discovered that inmates dont get bed and pillows.

As a prisoner he recieved three blankets,one he laid out on the floor,the other he used as a pillow.The third was,perhaps,meant to keep the army of mosquitoes at bay.

The Bollywood star complained to the authorities on tuesday about the blood suckers.

There is however,an attached toilet in the barracks for Salman,who is also allowed to wear his own clothes.

Special Jail Menu:
After his first night in jail Salman was offered a breakfast of sugarless tea and 'channa' the fare dished out to other prisoners some of them Kashmiri Terrorists,for lunch he ate roti and dal,for dinner roti and 'aloo tamatar' subzi.

The Jodhpur Central Jail has 950 inmates out of which atleast 30 are hardcore militants.

Mallika Sherawat`s Fauj Mein Mauj.

2006-04-11T12:28:00.000+05:30

Bollywood sex-kitten Mallika Sherawat will play a female cadet in the Indian Army in a forthcoming film titled Fauj Mein Mauj.

The film will be produced by Ravi Walia and directed by first timer Murli Nagavalli, who has been an assistant to Priyadarshan and is now starting on his own.

Reports are that the film is inspired by the 1980-Howard Zieff directed comedy titled ‘Private Benjamin’, whose tagline read: ‘The army was no laughing matter until Judy Benjamin joined it’.

Starring Goldie Hawn in the lead role, ‘Private Benjamin’ film was about a sheltered high society young woman who, on a whim, decides to join the army when her husband dies on their wedding night.

She finds herself in a more difficult situation than she ever expected when her superior makes sexual advances.

For thwarting his advances, she’s transferred to the NATO headquarters in Europe where she once again meets the Frenchman Henri, played by Armand Assante and the story moves further towards the climax.

When asked about being inspired by ‘Private Benjamin’, Nagavalli is reported to have said, "It has been changed to suit the Indian audiences. The film is a comedy along the lines of the Police Academy series, but set in the army. It’s a story of what happens when a sexy young woman joins the army."

However he asserted, "I’m not making fun of anyone, but just making a humorous film. It’s a fictional story."

On his choice of Mallika to replay Goldie Hawn’s character, he said, "We needed a woman with a sex-symbol image, who had some spunk and spice about her. And Mallika is the right person to play this role."

About the rest of the cast, he added, " Paresh Rawal and Rajpal Yadav have been confirmed for the film, but I’m yet to finalise other actors, including those who will play Mallika’s hero and her superior, the Colonel."

Nagavalli said he hoped to finish his casting so he can start shooting in the first week of June.

Salman Khan Goes to Jail.

2006-04-10T21:40:00.000+05:30

Finally after 8 long years justice has taken its course, Salman Khan has been found guilty of poaching a rare buck in Thar desert wildlife preserve and sentenced to five years in prison, his lawyer said.

Under Indian wildlife preservation laws, any sentence over three years means the convicted person will be taken into custody immediately after sentencing.

A court in the western city of Jodhpur on Monday sentenced Khan to five years and an accomplice to one year for shooting a rare chinkara deer in 1998.

Television footage showed Khan being bundled by police officers into a white police van waiting outside the courthouse to take him to the local prison.

A reporter with the NDTV news channel described Khan as looking "shaken and a little dazed" when the sentence was read.

"We will appeal," his lawyer Hastimal Saraswat told reporters outside the court. "He is not guilty, he is innocent," he said.

Khan was also fined 25,000 rupees (US$560).

In February, another court sentenced Khan to a year in prison on a separate charge of poaching deer and buck.

Khan has faced several separate charges of poaching and illegal possession of weapons stemming from the incident, when he and several other people allegedly drove into the Thar desert to shoot deer while on a break from filming.

Khan has denied the charges.

Members of the local Bishnoi tribe, who worship the black buck, first alerted forest officials to the killings, and police have said that nearly 80 people have given statements against the film star.

Salman Khan, who has reputation for being brash and arrogant, has been embroiled in several controversies in recent years, including being arrested in 2002 for drunk driving and vehicular homicide after allegedly losing control of his car and running over people sleeping on a Bombay sidewalk, killing one.

He has also been accused of thrashing former girlfriend and fellow actress Aishwarya Rai and having links to the Bombay underworld.

'Lolita' the new love in Big B`s life.

2006-04-06T21:53:00.000+05:30

Although the status on RGV’s version of 'Sholay' is still unknown, he has gone ahead and announced yet another project, 'Nishabd'.

Director Ram Gopal Varma says his latest film is inspired by Vladimir Nabokov's famous novel Lolita - but that his characters are driven by love, not sexual obsession.

The main female character is aged 18, not 12 as in the Nabokov novel.

Varma has been toying with this idea since a while, now.

Says his movie will be about a 54-year-old married man, played by the famed Amitabh Bachchan, falling in love with a woman that is the same age as his daughter.

Newcomer Jia will play Bachchan’s love interest. They believe that a new face will make the character more believable.

"If you take out the sexual content, mine is actually an intense love story, which is appealing to the senses," the director was quoted as saying by a leading news paper yesterday.

"It is important to realise that feelings don't age, human bodies do. Any man could be attracted to any woman," Varma said.

While Nakobov’s novel is about a 44-year old man fantasizing about a 12-year old, Varma’s 'Nishabd' is a passionate love story.

The film is expected to go on floors on May 1. The crew plan to complete the shooting in a single schedule.

Mallika To Bare All For Jackie & Mel ?

2006-04-04T07:26:00.000+05:30

This is what Indian men have all been waiting for....to catch Mallika Sherawat bare all for the camera.

If Hollywood hotshots Angelina Jolie, Salma Hayek and Sharon Stone can do it, so can India's answer to all of them.

Sherawat is in California to shoot for her film 'Jackie the Ripper' where she plays....you guessed it....the victim of the ripper's fantasies -- a role which her producer Jackie Chan says will involve a lot of ..err umm.. adult scenes.

And this is not all. Starring opposite Sherawat for this US $ 23 million venture is Chan himself and... hold your breath...Mel Gibson as 'Whackie' --Jackie's psychiatrist friend who is also a sex starved doctor.

In an exclusive e-mail interview, action hero and producer-director Jackie Chan confirmed that the bubbly Sherawat is playing the leading lady in his next venture.

...The film, which tells the story about a seemingly normal man who suffers from a mental wardrobe malfunction and resents any woman wearing too many clothes, is "full of steamy action," and yet is a "comedy flick like all my other movies," says Chan.

When contacted, Sherawat too couldn't hide her excitement.

"Imagine starring opposite Mel Gibson".

"I have promised Jacks (Jackie is such a dear friend) that I will do any scene for him, even if it means shedding my inhibitions a bit, because I know it will take me to Cannes again . Some beauty queens should be taught a thing of two".

"I am having a lot of fun here, even though some of the scenes are making even me blush".

"But overall, the three of us are having a blast," she says.

So here's wishing Mel Gibson and Jackie Chan all the luck!

Mallika is sexier than Aishwarya?

2006-04-02T21:36:00.000+05:30

It seems the competition for Aishwarya Rai is coming not from Sushmita Sen or any other Miss India`s but from sex siren and Jackie Chan`s favourite girl.. Mallika Sherawat.

You can either love Mallika Sherawat or simply hate her but there is no way you can ignore this sizzling hottie from Haryana.

From being just another sleazy starlet to apple of Jackie chan's eye, the jat girl has achieved quite a few feats in relatively short span of time.

Reveals Akshay Khanna, who's been smitten by her's charm in Mukta art's Shadi Se Pehle, "I think Mallika Sherawat is utterly misunderstood."

"Just because she has done certain films in the past of a particular kind, it doesn't mean that everything she does now will be of the same quality'. She wants to move away from her image and this film is a good starting point," he adds.

But despite her growing popularity there's is no dearth of people, who still love to bash her for her in-your-face attitude.

According to them, Mallika is neither beauty nor brains... just hype, which will vanish in some time.

But not everyone in the industry agrees with them.

After Subhash Ghai, Pritish Nandy Communications has signed Mallika Sherawat again to act in Sudhir Mishra directorial 'Ab Tera Kya Hoga Johny'?

She is already working with PNC for their 'Pyar Ke Side Effects' opposite Rahul Bose.

Why Mallika?

"Mallika has an earthy sex appeal which connects to people, removed from Aishwarya’s aloof one. She strikes an instant empathy with the audience," reveals Pritish Nandy.

“She is one of the most underused artistes… always ready to challenge herself. Our new project is not an art film. This will be one of the most significant roles of Mallika’s career, as we will be using her sex appeal in a different format, design and styling," he adds.

Hmmm.. Aishwarya....do we smell some heartburns?

Mona Chopra Nude MMS Controversy !

2006-03-31T23:52:00.000+05:30

A two minute MMS clip, which allegedly shows upcoming actress Mona Chopra undressing, has created a controversy in the Mumbai film world.

Chopra says she has not seen the MMS.

The clip allegedly shows a woman taking off her clothes as she argues on the phone with someone from the production unit over the choice of outfits she is required to wear.

Chopra, who made her debut in Timepass, is known for her dare-bare poses and quotable quotes.

Sex-comedy film Naughty Boy, which shows her being courted by father-son duo Rahul Roy and Hitesh, is due for release soon.

Calling it a serious breach of her privacy, Chopra said she plans to take legal advice from her lawyer.

Interestingly, Chopra is reportedly doing a nude scene in Red Swastika, which has been directed by Vinod Pande of Sins fame.

Meanwhile, rumour mills are agog that this may in fact be a publicity stunt to hog limelight.

Wanna act with SRK in 'Happy New Year' ?

2006-03-29T23:35:00.000+05:30

For those who want to be a part of Bollywood but do not have the right connections, here is just the right opportunity.

All that is to be done for a role with Shah Rukh Khan in his upcoming 'Happy New Year' is to participate in the 'Pepsi Khol Milega Role' contest.

And for that just 5 empty crowns or 1 label is needed to take part in the auditions that are going on across India.

So one just has to watch out for the 'Dream Van' or rush to the nearest Reliance Webworld for an audition.

A unique feature of this contest is that the actual lucky winners will be preferred from the smaller cities and towns of India; though the contest will also go to some of the Metro cities of India.

Aishwarya Breaks Will Smith`s Heart !

2006-03-29T01:59:00.000+05:30

Bollywood superstar Aishwarya Rai is too busy to make a movie with Will Smith, following the Hollywood star's recent proposition during his trip to India.

The Bride and Prejudice star, 32, first caught the eye of the rapper/actor last year when he approached her to star in Hitch.

And when Smith,37, visited India last month, he spoke of his desire to make Rai his leading lady.

He said, "I would do anything that Aishwarya Rai will be part of. I love her so much."

Smith said he had wanted Rai to act with him in the romantic comedy ''Hitch'' but was told she was filming another movie, ''Bride & Prejudice.''

He offered Rai a role in his next film "Tonight, He Comes," which he is also producing, which begins filming in July.

However, Rai is already committed to work with Indian director Ashutosh Gowariker on his period drama "Jodha Akbar."

Gowariker's film ''Lagaan'' was nominated for a best foreign film Oscar. He is now working on a period film, ''Jodha Akbar,'' set during the 16th century, which narrates an arranged marriage between Emperor Akbar and his wife which later blossomed into love.

Her business manager Hari Singh says, "We are in a bit of a situation. Aishwarya will obviously stick to her earlier commitment to Jodha Akbar as she is very professional".

"But if she loses out on Will Smith's film, it would be a great loss. Let's see what happens. We're hoping for the best."

Rai planned to request Gowariker to free her up on those dates, but that might not be possible because her co-star Hrithik Roshan, a major Bollywood star, would have to reschedule as well.

Penelope Cruz`s 'Passion India' !

2006-03-27T22:58:00.000+05:30

Hollywood`s Spanish beauty Penelope Cruz, who has got a passion for India, will star in a movie called Passion India about a young Flamenco dancer who sparked a scandal in the early 20th century by marrying a maharaja.

The 31-year-old 'Vanilla Sky' star will appear alongside Bollywood stars for the film as the Indian film industry continues to move closer to Hollywood and the American viewing public.

The novel was inspired by the true story of Anita Delgado, a 17-year-old flamenco dancer from Andalusia who scandalised Spain and India in the early 1900s when she agreed to marry an Indian maharaja and settle in his native land.

Delgado, a dancing associate of famous spy Mata Hari, was the third wife of Maharaja Sir Jagatjit Singh Bahadur of Kapurthala.

The movie is expected to shoot in Spain and India.

Now Jackie Chan wants Aishwarya Rai !

2006-03-26T12:52:00.000+05:30

After Hollywood star Will Smith who has shown keen desire to work with Aishwarya Rai its now the turn of Hongkong legend Jackie Chan.

After touring the whole world with Mallika Sherawat to promote his film Myth, martial arts king Jackie Chan has now set his eyes on another indian beauty Aishwarya Rai.

He wants her to act in 'Rush Hour 3' and is making efforts to rope in her in the film.

Brett Ratner, the director of the film, which will also star Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker, recently told a website he’s out to cast Ash in ‘Rush Hour 3’

"It's my dream to put her in the movie, Aishwarya Rai is considered to be the most beautiful woman in the world," Ratner said.

The film, which will reunite Jackie, Chris Tucker and their enormous paydays, will be set in Paris and New York, said Ratner.

Ash continues to be a sought-after star among the filmmakers in Hollywood and already has a good number of Hollywood projects in her kitty.

There is no sign of decline in the offers Ash keeps getting despite her clearly stated precondition that she will not resort to any skin exposure in films.

Isha & Amrita... together again !

2006-03-25T14:26:00.000+05:30

Okay guys, hold your breath — the sex siren, Isha Koppikar is back, with none other than her favorite ‘girlfriend’, Amrita Arora.

Remember their ‘lesbian’ characterisation in the much controversial film, ‘Girlfriend’? Posters were torn apart, political parties opposed, and the moviegoers marked the film as indigestible.

Well, the good news is that these two sizzlers aren’t up to any naughty stuff this time around.

They’re both a part a film called, ‘Raakh’, a dark thriller, with Sohail Khan in the lead. And Isha and Ammu are most definitely playing straight, heterosexual, normal gals.

So everyone out there…go ahead, drool!

'Malamaal Weekly' rocks the BOX OFFICE !

2006-03-24T10:43:00.000+05:30

Malamaal Weekly stands head and shoulders above the rest in a month where film companies are trying to offload as much trash on us as possible.

Story:

The people in a small town lives in constant poverty.

One resident makes a little money by selling Malamaal Weekly Lottery Tickets.

One day whilst watching TV he learns that the winner of the grand prize is from his little village.

However, no-one else has a TV in the village so he decides to go through all the people he has sold a lottery ticket to.

Unsurprisingly, he finds the ticket in the hand of village drunk - Anthony.

The only problem is Anthony is now dead.

Money can make people do the stupidest things and things get a little crazy when one by one the truth slowly seeps out.

Starring: Ritesh Deshmukh, Om Puri, Paresh Rawal, Shakti Kapoor,Reema Sen.
Directed by: Priyadarshan.

MALAMAAL WEEKLY continues to lead in both U.K. and U.S.A. markets.

The combined total in 10 days has crossed Rs. 2 crores from these two markets, which is quite an achievement for a film that does not star top names.

Looking at the box office outcome of Malamaal Weekly over last 10 days, it appears to be quite reminiscent to what one witnessed a few years back with Priyadarshan's first comic hit 'Hera Pheri'.

When 'Hera Pheri' was released, it had opened to average reviews and lukewarm response but only gained from strength to strength as the days progressed.

In fact it was one of those rare movies that kept stepping up on the charts after every week and touched peak in its 4th week .

On similar lines, 'Malamaal Weekly' too opened to average to below average reviews, though the opening was much better.

Now more than 10 days after the movie's release, word of mouth has spread like fire with beelines in front of theatres screening the film.

After having recovered its investment already, the movie seems to be on way to be yet another big success for Priyadarshan.

Viacom to enter Bollywood !

2006-03-23T22:10:00.000+05:30

Global media giant $9.61 billion Viacom Inc., which beams 120 channels like MTV, Nickelodeon and VH1 into 430 million homes across the world, intends to co-produce Hindi films with Indian producers in the next 12 months.

Another global media giant Sony Pictures is already producing film Savariya with Sanjay Leela Bhansali.

Viacom president and chief executive officer Tom Freston is also looking at additional television and digital programming in the country, though he refused to spell out specific details.

The company may also introduce more channels in India in the future, said Freston.

From its global portfolio, only music channels MTV and VH1 and kids channel Nick are available in India right now.

“We are at the beginning of our action plan for India. So there is much ground work to do,” he said.

Unlike diversified media firms such as News Corp, which have interests in a spectrum of activities including distribution and broadcasting etc, Viacom intends sticking to its core function of beaming/ broadcasting content across TV, film and the web, said Mr Freston.

Paparazzi eyeing Bollywood Bombshells !

2006-03-22T23:54:00.000+05:30

Paparazzi is an international organization of photographers that try to take the photos of the celebrities in exposed and compromised positions.

They hide, wait and try to get the glimpse of the celebrities in an unimaginable position.

Recently they have published photos of Kareena Kapoor and Shahid Kapur sharing a passionate kiss at Rain a suburban Mumbai restaurant.

According to sources they are panning to focus on Bollywood in Mumabi to take pics of Bollywood Bombshells!

Earlier, gossip journalism in Bollywood entailed only the harmless tittle tattle of pen-pushers speculating about romance between one and the other star.

The Paparazzi was a long way from penetrating Bollywood, even when television exposes about politicians caught in compromising positions became the order of the day. We respected and loved our stars too much to demystify them.

The status quo has changed now.

Television channels don't stop at anything to capture the stars in compromising positions on camera.

Recently, Star News did a Tehelka-like expose with hidden cameras on the alleged flesh trade among Bollywood starlets.

With widespread mobile phone cameras, no celebrity is at liberty to let their hair down... Or they might lose the hair completely.

Esha Deol to take it easy.

2006-03-21T13:37:00.000+05:30

Bollywood starlet Esha Deol says she's planning to take it easy this year after a busy 2005.

Most Bollywood biggies work at a breakneck pace, making numerous films a year and Deol was no different in 2005, when she made six films.

``I was busy a lot in 2005, this year I am going to take it easy and will sign only the films that excite me.''

Still, the 23-year-old actress is taking it easy Bollywood-style in 2006, she's already filming a movie and plans to star in at least one other film.

Deol's family is well known in India's movie business, based in the western city of Bombay, also known as Mumbai.

She's the daughter of renowned Bollywood stars Dharmendra and Hema Malini.

Hollywood director for Bollywood heroines !

2006-03-21T10:35:00.000+05:30

Bigger Hollywood names are taking notice of Bollywood, with another filmmaker falling for the charm of our homegrown heroes and heroines — director Irvin Kershner.

Best known for his films like Star Wars: Episode V — The Empire Strikes Back, James Bond — Never Say Never Again and Robocop II, the filmmaker is currently in Mumbai scouting not only locations for his next film, but also actors.

Produced by Dr Arjun Daluvoy, his forthcoming film — 'The Princess and Wizard' will be shot across India and abroad and will span places like Egypt, America, Morocco and Mysore, Hyderabad in India.

"We aim to promote Bollywood in Hollywood and vice versa. It is Hollywood coming down to Bollywood.

For the male lead, we are considering Hollywood actors Johnny Depp and Orlando Bloom...

We're looking for a fresh face from India for the female lead," reveals Dr Daluvoy about his international project.

The duo will also be visiting Jaipur and Udaipur. Says Irvin Kirshner, "This is my first trip to India.

I have been following Bollywood films.

Music and dance is something I will incorporate into my movies.

Indian women are extraordinarily beautiful"

'Big B' Starts Shooting !

2006-03-20T20:32:00.000+05:30

The Bollywood film industry was rejuvenated on Monday as its biggest star Amitabh Bachchan returned to the set after a four-month break to recover from surgery.

Bachchan will start filming three movies this week, after 12 productions worth nearly one billion rupees ($22.5m) were delayed when the actor, nicknamed the "Big B", fell ill in November with intestinal problems.

"Mr Bachchan was very excited this morning to come back to the set," said his make-up man Deepak Sawant. He added he was "very happy" the actor would be filming on Tuesday for a film Sawant was also producing.

Security was tight at the studio in the Andheri section of northern Mumbai for the shooting of Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna (Never Say Goodbye) , also starring popular actress Rani Mukherjee.
On Tuesday, Bachchan, 63, will start filming for Ganga (River Ganges) followed by shooting later in the week in the lead role for Babul (Father's Home) .

The director for Babul, Ravi Chopra, told earlier this month that they would take breaks during the 50-day shoot to ensure the actor remained healthy.

Bachchan last year won a raft of Indian film awards for his performance in Black, which focused on the relationship between an alcoholic teacher and his deaf-and-blind student.

His four successful films in 2005 grossed more than $22m.

His career spans nearly 40 years and more than 100 films and he remains the top star in the world's most prolific film industry.

Even during his illness, Bachchan maintained his commercial clout through both TV ads and reruns of old movies shown on Indian television.

Ayesha Takia - good time 'Shaadi Se Pehle' !

2006-03-20T13:07:00.000+05:30

Ayesha and Akshaye are really Birds of a feather!

Actress Ayesha Takia is having a good time shooting with Akshaye Khanna for their next film Shaadi Se Pehle.

When we got in touch with her and asked her about her reserved co-star AK, she said,

“Akshaye is a lovely actor. I like him the way he is.

He comes on the sets, does a good job and goes back home, which is quite the thing I do.

So, it’s great working with like-minded people.”

Let’s hope these birds of a feather fly high with this comic caper.

Bollywood stars to create history !

2006-03-19T01:46:00.000+05:30

Bollywood stars Aishwarya Rai, Saif Ali Khan, Rani Mukerji, Lara Dutta and Priyanka Chopra have consented to feature in the larger-than-life cultural extravaganza planned for the closing ceremony of the Commonwealth Games in Melbourne later this month.

About two billion people are likely to watch the eveng across five continents.

India's cultural contingent at the Games shall probably be the largest with as many as 900 performers.

The 15-minute segment is likely to see live performances by singers Sonu Nigam, Sunidhi Chauhan, Shreya Ghoshal, Blaaze and choreographer Shiamak Davar.

Percussion maestros Taufiq Qureshi and Sivamani are also scheduled to perform at the stadium.

A gigantic celebration of all that is famous in the entertainment world, the evening will begin with an India showcase film directed by Ken Ghosh that captures the spirit of the country.

This will be followed by a tribute to Yoga by actress and dancer Isha Shrwani and a dance ballet by Aishwarya Rai.

There will also be a short film devoted to Delhi followed by a `bhangra' performance by Rani
Mukerji and Saif Ali Khan to "Delhi Dhamaal'' sung by Sukhwinder Singh and Gayatri.

'Hot' Celina Jaitely abuses airport manager !

2006-03-17T18:47:00.000+05:30

Here's is some not so good news from bikini babe Celina Jaitley.

A non cognisable offence has been filed against the hot Bollywood actress and her brother after they allegedly had a tiff with airport officials, police sources said.

Celina has reportedly insulted the airport manager Jayshree Shivalingam in front of the airport staff.

The entire incident took place around 5:30 PM on monday when Celina Jaitley, who was on her way to catch a flight to J&K with her brother Vikrant, parked her car in the VIP parking area reserved for the cars of Political officials and Government delegates.

On being requested by the airport authorities to vacate the spot, she blatantly declined and started hurling abuses.

She was asked to speak to Shivalingam, who told Jaitley that she was not authorised to park her car in the VIP area.

But the actress and her brother refused to budge and instead abused the manager in the presence of other staff and passengers.

“The Government employees are useless and what difference did it make if she parked her car for a while, especially since there were no VIP cars present,” she was quoted as saying.

But Police is no mood to take the entire pisode lightly and has already filed a case against her at Santacruz airport police station.

The actress was unavailable for comment.

Shah Rukh Khan to sell cool Talc !

2006-03-16T22:36:00.000+05:30

Bollywood mega star Shah Rukh Khan has been roped in for an ad campaign by Emami Ltd for the new Navaratna brand talc.

"Navaratna cool talc will be endorsed by Shah Rukh.

He joins megastars Amitabh Bachchan and Chiranjeevi as endorser of the brand," Emami director Harsh V Agarwal said here today.

The company plans to spend Rs 10 crore to promote the new talc brand for the forthcoming summer.

The company hopes to achieve Rs 15 crore turnover from the new talc in the first year of launch.

"Paathshala" is a chartbuster !

2006-03-14T12:33:00.002+05:30

It's definitely a good week for Bollywood music lovers.

Composer A.R. Rahman is the toast of the season, with songs from his latest album "Rang De Basanti" rocking the charts.

The top 10 Hindi songs are:

1. "Paathshala" - Film: "Rang De Basanti"; Singers: Naresh Iyer, Mohammed Aslam; Music: A.R. Rahman. The film has struck gold at the box office and the song is going great guns in the market.

2. "Boombai nagariya" - Film: "Taxi No.9211"; Singer: Bappi Lahiri; Music: Vishal-Shekhar. Last week "Ek nazar mein thi" from the same film was on the charts but this week "Boombai Nagariya" replaces it. The song marks the comeback of music composer Bappi Lahiri as a singer.

3. "Aadat" - Film: "Kalyug"; Singer: Atif; Music: Goher Mumtaz. The new soulful track is a new entrant on the charts this week.

4. "9 parts of desire" - Film: "Bluffmaster"; Singer: Saira Hussain; Music: Vishal-Shekhar. Trickbaby lent this sensuous English song from their album "Hanging Around" to Rohan Sippy's "Bluffmaster", which is slowly becoming popular.

5. "Jhalak dikhlaja" - Film: "Aksar"; Singer: Himesh Reshammiya; Music: Himesh Reshammiya. The song stands out because of the nasal effect given by the singer. It has the potential to stay on the charts for a longer time.

6. "Halla re" - Film: "Neal 'N' Nikki"; Singers: Shweta Pandit, Salim Merchant, Irshad Kamil; Music: Salim-Sulaiman. The film flopped but the song is constantly moving up on the music ladder.7. "Fanaah" - Film: "Hum Ko Deewana Kar Gaye"; Singer: K.K.; Music: Anu Malik. Initially, the song caught on with Akshay Kumar's fans but now its magic is waning.

8. "Yeh hai meri kahani" - Film: "Zinda"; Singers: Strings; Music: Strings. The song is going places.

9. "Aapki kashish" - Film: "Aashiq Banaya Aapne"; Singer: Himesh Reshammiya; Music: Himesh Reshammiya. The song has won many awards for Reshammiya and has become a permanent fixture on the list.

10. "Kajra re" - Film: "Bunty Aur Babli"; Singers: Alisha Chinnai, Shankar Mahadevan and Javed Ali; Music: Shankar, Ehsaan and Loy. Some songs never let go and this qawwali is one of them.

Mallika refused to fly with Shahrukh !

2006-03-12T01:10:00.000+05:30

Mallika Sherawat has gone back to her diva-esque ways.

The latest example of the actress’s unprofessional attitude was her no-show at the Zee Cine Awards event in Mauritius, on March 4.

Demanding diva Mallika was to host a segment of the awards ceremony with Karan Johar, but backed out at the last minute.

The reason? The organisers did not accede to two of her demands — that Sherawat would fly executive class, accompanied by two bodyguards.

Said sources in Zee, “Mallika backed out at the last moment, and didn’t go because she wanted business class tickets for herself and her two bodyguards.”

The Zee awards were directed, coordinated, executed and scripted by the Morani brothers and Soorma, of Cineyug Entertainment.

Says Ali Morani, “It is true that Mallika was supposed to host a certain segment of the Zee Awards, but we are not aware of why she backed out at the last minute".

"We had booked her on a flight on March 2, but she told us that she couldn’t go. We gave her an economy class ticket on March 3 because the flight was full — almost the entire industry had been booked on that flight. She wanted a business class ticket, but none was available".

"Finally, we asked her to go with Shah Rukh Khan in the evening, on his chartered flight. Mallika refused that too, and was not reachable afterwards".

But Morani says he has no issues with Mallika. “I am sure she must have had her reasons,” he says.

Did she ask for bodyguards? “No. There were adequate security arrangements in Mauritius, so she would have been safe. She had no need for bodyguards.”

Zee sources gave out conflicting statements. Programming head Ashwini Yarde asked us to speak to Punit Goenka (director, Zee Telefilms), who said, “Mallika was never confirmed, so how could she back out at the last minute?”

Goenka then asked us to talk to Ashish Kaul (senior vice-president, Zee Network). “I don’t want to be part of such speculation, and that too when an event is done and over with. You should speak directly with Mallika and the event management agency,” Kaul said.

Mallika, meanwhile, was unavailable for comment.

Said a source close to Mallika, sarcastically, “It was not only her bodyguards she wanted. Mallika asked for her Pekinese pup, yoga instructor, pedicurist, manicurist, cook, masseur and 10 relatives from Rohtak to accompany her to Mauritius — all to be flown on a private, chartered plane! The organisers agreed to everything, except her pedicurist, so she didn’t go!” Midday

Bollywood... all for Speed Dating !

2006-03-11T11:44:00.000+05:30

If you believe in love at first sight, and are confident of charming your way into a complete stranger's heart and have been waiting too long for the perfect date, then the Zoom Speed Dating Contest was the perfect place for you to be in.

The new generation Bollywood stars - Kunal Kapoor, Amrita Arora and Tanishaa were the charming judges of the Zoom Speed Dating Contest Finals that were held in Mumbai on Friday, March 10th, 2006 to crown the most fancied guy and gal as India's Speed Dating Hunk and Speed Dating Siren respectively.

16 finalists were short listed from the auditions and regional rounds held across 6 metros that included Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata and Hyderabad for the Speed Dating Contest organized by Zoom.

The show has made it possible for people from different cities and backgrounds to avail a complete understanding of dating.

With quality being the rule of the game than just quantity, Zoom Speed Dating Contest saw an attractive mix of over 18,000 contestants participate from all across the country.

Young professionals from all spheres of life from advertising agencies to marketing gurus were some of the most enthusiastic participants during the show.

Zoom has now decided to take the on set experience to the masses by telecasting this entire journey of their Speed dating Contest on March 26, at 9 PM.