It was a low-key birthday celebrations for Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt in Yerwada jail on Tuesday. The actor could not meet his relatives on his birthday as it was a holiday for jail on the occasion of Ramzan Eid. However, Dutt received 55 letters from his fans as he turned 55 today. His family has also sent him a greeting card.
Dutt was convicted by TADA court in Mumbai in April, 2013 after the Supreme Court convicted him in the Mumbai 1993 bomb blasts and sentence him imprisonment for 42-months. He is severing his imprisonment in Yerawada central prison from May, 2013.
This is the second consecutive birthday of Dutt which he is celebrating his birthday in prison. Last year after his birthday his wife Manyata had come to meet him but this time being Ramzan Eid Jail had holiday and there was no arrangement for family for meeting the relatives. Last year, on his birthday, Manyata had tattooed his name on her finger and this year she has kept a puja. Three weeks back, Dutt sister Priya had come to meet him in jail.
A jail sources said, "On Monday itself Dutt had received some 56 letters including his fan and his wife's letter along with handmade greeting card by children. 55 letters are written to him by his fans who wished him Happy birthday and some of the letters there are phrases, Dutt sketches, his dialogues and motivation talks. On Tuesday, Dutt got up around 6.30 am for his break-fast and was reading his wife letters and children greeting card. Today he had holiday for his work and prefer to be alone. He was weeping and reading the same letters repeated times."
He added, "On Tuesday, jail inamtes have a special menu as they are going to be served Sheer Khurma for lunch and dinner. Dutt did not had his lunch properly and did not smoke. Later in noon found writing letters to his wife and was chanting god names. When asked the reason he claimed his daughter is unwell and praying for children long life."
The Indian tennis player after being chosen as a brand ambassador stirred a controversy and the Kick actor tweeted in her support
Salman Khan might be busy with his latest release Kick, but he certainly has time for his fellow Indians. Recently when Telangana government chose Sania Mirza as the brand ambassador, it erupted quite a controversy. BJP Leader K Laxman described her as ‘non-local’ and ‘Pakistan’s daughter-in-law.’ Well, that’s quite unjust as the tennis player who brought fame to India was very much born in India. Gauahar Khan, Riteish Deshmukh among others tweeted in support. And now, even Salman Khan, who doesn’t tweet as regularly as his other contemporaries, has voiced out his support for Sania Mirza. He tweeted, “Wah yaarrr! sania mirza , kamaal karti ho . Like the spirit , issse bolteh hain kick ass . .”
Well, despite a hectic schedule, Salman tweeted in Sania’s support. Now that’s what we call being human!
Sushant Singh Rajput takes a long, hard look at Bollywood and comes away optimistic, nevertheless
Sushant Singh Rajput
He is the outsider. Sushant Singh Rajput is from Mumbai, but he doesn't have a Bollywood background or any godfather. His godmother in television, if she can be called that, was Ekta Kapoor, who gave him his first break in acting in her TV soapPavitra Rishta. He got his Bollywood break in Abhishek Kapoor's Kai Po Che. He has finished shooting for Raj Kumar Hirani'sP.K. Now he is shooting for Dibakar Banerjee's Detective Byomkesh Bakshi, produced by YRF and is slated to shoot for Shekhar Kapoor's Paani.
Sushant gives us an insight into how from being a nobody, he is one of the most successful young actors today:
It's precisely out of love that I gave up my very promising career in engineering and ended up here in Bollywood. I am giving the rest of my life to it, so I better be serious and the reason for me to keep going better be love.
I believe that, no matter how insanely big the dream is, if one advances confidently in the direction of it and endeavours to live the life he has imagined, he would meet a success unexpected in commoners. And the other lesson for me is to learn not to be so careful. Initially it was because I felt I didn't belong and I used to get very uncomfortable. I am not much of a smooth talker. I keep my cellphone off for months when I am shooting for a film, so now people have stopped calling me to events and parties.
There are so many things the people outside don't know about us actors. I want to mention a few... I guess actors are very brave. It takes a lot to expose your inner emotions (which may, at times, even be embarrassing, personal emotions too) in front of the camera and a group of strangers. Actors are also insecure and clueless about it. Most of the time, they are not sure what exactly it is they doing right to be where they are. Lastly, what most people don't know about actors is that we are extremely ambitious. The quality of dreaming very big with absolute certainty, more often than not, is inherent in most actors.
There were times in my high school when I would allow myself to think what would it be like if I chose to be an actor (or a hero, to be more precise) but it was always short-lived, because of the strong inertia of making it big academically, that was always there, if you belong to a low middle class family as I was. It took me a lot of effort to get into a premier engineering college, secretly discovering my calling in theatre and professional dancing (the family didn't have a clue) in order to bring myself to decide to take the final plunge. My family got the shock of their lives but they finally supported me unconditionally.
The best thing about acting is enjoying the art and to understand the experiences you had had in your lives in a completely different manner... It's magical... And the privileges this career brings you - all the fame, money and stuff, well, it's overwhelming. The worst thing about the film industry is that unintentionally it cultivates greed and envy. You constantly have to make plans to be ahead at your game, and life is what happens when you are busy making these plans.
I don't miss having a godfather in Bollywood because honestly, till now I didn't have to face a situation where I would wish that. I could call everyone from Mr Aditya Chopra, Mr Shekhar Kapur, Mr Dibakar Banerjee, Mr Rajkumar Hirani, to Mr Maneesh Sharma and Mr Abhishek Kapoor - my Godfathers. People who have given me some of my biggest breaks in life are Shiamak Davar for liberating me of my stage fright and giving me the first chance to have a rendezvous with Bollywood, Ekta Kapoor for telling me that I could make it BIG here and giving me my first break in TV, casting director Mukesh Chabra and Gattu (Abhishek Kapoor) for Kai Po Che.
I remember my first day of shoot in Kai Po Che very vividly, I was extremely nervous because I had heard 'TV actors can't make it to films' so many times in my life that I was wondering what if it actually was true. The scene was my character Ishaan who was talking to a bunch of cricket enthusiasts. I stuck to the basics and I heard Gattu saying 'Okay' with a smile immediately after the first take. I felt so relieved!
Ankita, without an iota of doubt, is the most special person in my life. It's so strange that I didn't have to plan and work hard for the best gift I have in my life. The only thing what makes me believe that the popular belief in destiny might actually be true... My normal day is a simple one. I watch many films everyday, read a lot, spend time with Ankita, meetings, narrations, preparation for the next film and video games. I love them!
I want to say this to young, aspiring actors looking for a break in Bollywood... Nothing - absolutely nothing - beats passion! Dream BIG, back it up with massive preparation and undying belief and be always aware of the first reason you wanted to be an actor.
Mumbai, July 25: Pakistani model-actress Humaima Malick, who is making her Bollywood debut with forthcoming Emraan Hashmistarrer “Raja Natwarlal“, a thriller, seems to be in awe of the way Bollywood’s ‘serial kisser’ romances onscreen. She says he’s good at romance.
“Emraan teases a lot. He bullies you a lot, but the good thing about him is that he is good at romance,” Humaima, who has shared some passionate kissing scenes with the actor in the film, said in an interview. ”He is a very cool person, a very good co-star,” added the 26-year-old.
Further, praising Emraan’s professionalism and work, Humaimasaid: “He gives you your space (while working), doesn’t teach you. I have worked with lot of actors who give their input in your scenes, but he does not do that and leaves you in your own space and leaves the rest on the director.”
Produced by UTV Motion Pictures and directed by Kunal Deshmukh, “Raja Natwarlal” also features Paresh Rawal and Kay Kay Menon. It will hit the theatres Aug 29
25th July 2014 (London): TVPlayer, the fastest growing free live streaming platform in the UK with over 40 channels, announces it has expanded its popular DESI pack, by licensing leading channels Zing and Lamhe from the world's most watched South Asian Entertainment Network - ZEE Entertainment.
Zing is the number one British Asian Bollywood Lifestyle channel in the UK offering an exciting mix of shows. With local shows, Bollywood entertainment, movies, drama and music, its essence covers an innovative blend of programming. Last month, the channel ranked as top third channel in the South Asian TV market, with a monthly reach of 1,048,000 in June (Source: BARB). TVPlayer audiences can now enjoy regular Bollywood updates on ‘Zing Bollywood Now', ‘Bollywood Life', and ‘Bollywood Business', get the UK's take on Bollywood with ‘Brit's Bollywood', as well as catch the latest glamour trends on ‘Trendsetters'. Viewers can also get up close and personal with Bollywood celebrities on ‘Fanography'' and lots more.
Lamhe is ZEE's latest addition to its bouquet of channels. It showcases the very best of South-Asian entertainment aimed at viewers who love to watch drama, classic Bollywood movies as well as lifestyle programmes. Viewers can enjoy award-winning shows such as ‘Astitva (Identity)' and ‘Kasamh Se' (Promise), as well as culinary highlights with ‘Great Chefs of India'.
TVPlayer launched its DESI pack to cater for the growing popularity of South-Asian channels such as Zing and Lamhe. As part of the licensing agreement, TVPlayer has obtained live streaming, catch-up and network PVR rights in advance of a platform wide update scheduled to launch later in the year.
Neeraj Dhingra, CEO, Europe: "ZEE entertains 700+ million viewers across 169 countries. Our channels Zing and Lamhe offer a distinct set of programmes that differentiates them from others in the market making them a great addition to TVPlayer platform. The content on both is aimed at a wide cross-section of the audience of all age groups and we are making it accessible across various types of platforms."
Lewis Arthur, Platform Manager of TVPlayer, says, "Zing and Lamhe have a huge fan-base in the UK and we are excited to provide another platform for their users to view great Bollywood shows and the best of Drama through these channels. Our DESI pack has been popular since we launched on TVPlayer, indicating the consistent and growing demand for this content in the UK."
About TVPlayer:
TVPlayer is an OTT platform launched in the UK by Simplestream, which streams live TV across multiple devices from some of the UK's favourite free-to-air broadcasters.
About ZEE Entertainment:
Launched in 1995, Zee Network, UK was the first South Asian Entertainment Network of its kind. Since then it has grown in popularity and become synonymous with South Asian entertainment. Zee has continually entertained and engages audiences with a unique blend of high-quality, localised and innovative programming. It also offers the world's largest Hindi film library, with an option of English and French subtitles. Worldwide Zee reaches 169 countries and more than 700 million viewers through a global entertainment network.
Zee is amongst the largest producers and aggregators of Hindi and other South Asian regional language programming in the world. With its commitment to meet audience needs, it has brought five entertainment channels to the UK viewers
About Zing:
UK's No.1 British Asian Lifestyle Channel featuring playlists comprising local shows, Bollywood hits and classics, British Asian music and Asian music videos, Bollywood movies, behind the scene shows and lots more. Available on Virgin Media 813 and free on Sky 789 and Freesat 663. Also available on your mobile for FREE on Yamgo TV www.yamgo.mobi/zing. The Zing website also hosts the latest Bollywood news and gossip www.zingtv.co.uk, with the latest info also on the Zing TV UK Facebook and Twitter pages.
About Lamhe:
Showcasing only the best of South-Asian entertainment, free, with classic Dramas, path-setting Bollywood Classics, plus lifestyle, travel, cookery and more. Lamhe features some of the most popular and award-winning shows, including classics such as - Astitva, Saat Phere and Piya Ka Ghar. Available on Virgin Media 811 and free on Sky 798. Also on Freeview channel 53 in the Manchester region. Available on your mobile for FREE on Yamgo TV http://yamgo.mobi/lamhe.
Finally, in the talk show Ek Mulaqat of DD News, Salman Khan did not shy away from accepting that may be he will never marry in his life.
The actor reportedly also said that he has no interest in politics; neither does he wish to direct movies but will continue acting.
It was in the same talk show in the year 2010, Deepika Padukone considered Salman is the real 'Lafanga' though he has many good qualities that can be inspiration for others.
In his full length interview which will be featured on DD News today at 9:30 pm and tomorrow at 11:30pm, the versatile actor has freely opened himself and said that he will prefer investing his time for the well-being of children.
He is happy with his social work that he is doing through 'Being Human' and wishes to adopt few more places where he can actively engage himself for the betterment of children.
Ek Mulaqat is the weekly talk show of DD News, which is aired every Saturday at 9:30pm and the repeat telecast is on Sunday at 11:30pm.
The show has been on air since 2010 and has hosted many known personalities in the past as several Indian Cabinet Ministers, Members of Indian Parliament, industrialists and Bollywood personalities have featured in this programme. These include Ambika Soni, Jyotiraditya Scindia, Naveen Jindal, Vilasrao Deshmukh, Deepika Padukone, Javed Akhtar, Mohinder Amarnath, and Dr. S.Y. Quraishi. (ANI)
The Bhaag Milkha Bhaag star recently tweeted about Fawad Khan joining the worldwide social networking site
Twitter is being flooded by B-town celebs and after Arjun Kapoor, the latest one to join the list is Pakistani heartthrob Fawad Khan.
The Zindagi Gulzar Hai fame received a warm welcome on the social networking site by co-star Sonam Kapoor who tweeted about the same which read,” Guess who’s on twitter!!! It’s Fawad khan!!! Please follow the handsomest nicest smartest and most charming @_fawadakhan_ #khoobsurat.”
The fashionista has a hand full of appealing adjectives to shell out for the Khan lad no doubt. Well isn’t she the warmest B-town babe on the block?
Sonam and Fawad will be seen sharing screen space together in their upcoming film Khoobsuratwhich is a remake of the former Rekha starrer with the same title. The film is set to release on September 12.
Ace lensman Rohan Shrestha, who is known for his Bollywood as well as fashion recently, added another feather to his cap. Shrestha became the youngest photographer in India to learn underwater photography.
Rohan stayed on a boat for nearly three weeks in Indonesia to learn underwater photography, which is quite tough and requires immense skill and talent. Needless to say, it is usually done with specialized equipment and techniques. Incidentally, Rohan is a professional scuba diver since the last 10 years and was trained in Indonesia by Anees Adenwala, who has shot underwater sequence for films like 'Talaash' and 'Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara'.
Rohan says, “Apart from me, there are just two underwater photographers in India. I had always wanted to learn underwater photography-cinematography and I am quite excited about finally doing it.”
It's been a few months that speculations about Nargis Fakhri dating Uday Chopra went viral on the internet. Pictures from their private holiday in Maldives were leaked and what followed was a bizarre story of denial by the two Bollywood stars. And now it seems, the couple's relationship has gone kaput.
Nargis, who had been updating Twitterverse with some lonely quotes and depressing statuses off late, has finally found a way to cheer herself up. "Hugging and kissing my teddy! No more lonely days n nights! I have my snuggle buddy now!!! (sic)", tweeted the Main Tera Hero star. It seems she has finally got someone to give her company! Now you can flash that disarming smile, Nargis.
It's raining Bollywood on TV. From actors, directors to producers, TV is seeing an influx of film personalities. Amitabh Bachchan has just made his fiction debut with Yudh, the creative director of which is Anurag Kashyap and Shoojit Sircar, the consultant.
Sources say that Sushmita Sen and Konkana Sen Sharma are being pencilled in for two different fiction shows, one of which is directed by Nikhil Advani. While Sushimita has judged a reality show Dancing Queen, this will be her first fiction show. Konkana has been missing in action post motherhood and the TV show is likely to be her comeback.
Rohan Sippy is making a show on the lines of Sherlock Holmes for which Milind Soman was approached to play a negative role, while Vivek Oberoi was offered the hero's role. However, Vivek turned down the role and now sources say Milind is likely to play the hero! The search for the villain is on. He will be a Bolly actor.
A government committee has called upon Bollywood and television industry to help assimilate North-East with the rest of the country. The Bezbaruah Committee, constituted in the wake of increasing attacks on North-East students, has recommended that Bollywood and the Indian soap opera industry can help by using locations in the North-East for shooting and including stories from the diverse region for their serials and films.
"As Bollywood plays such a prominent role in forming images in the minds of people, DoNER ministry (development of north east region) should consider a suitable scheme of incentives for encouraging the use of North-East locales for Bollywood pictures," the committee recommends.
The committee in its report submitted to the Union home ministry last week, suggested law enforcing agencies of both Centre and the states to prepare a comprehensive computerised database for keeping track of the people of the North-East and creation of a North-East centre to look after NE people and promote their assimilation. The Bezbaruah committee was set up by the Union home ministry on February 21 this year in the aftermath of the death of a college student from Arunachal Pradesh, Nido Tania, who was killed in a brawl in a South Delhi colony.
The committee's report gives exhaustive list of guidelines to the Centre and the states in the fields of education, sports, law and order, information and broadcasting, private sector and media that could lead to assimilation and integration of North-East with the rest of India. However, against expectations of many, especially to the North-East diaspora, it falls woefully short of recommending any tough measures to rein in the attacks against NE community.
"We were expecting much more from the committee. It should have at least suggested some tough action against those who indulge in blatant attacks, force us to follow their customs and don't give us rooms on rent," said a student leader of N-E student community in Delhi University who did not wish to be quoted.
On part of the legal measures, the committee suggests that within the broad framework of the constitution the legal, strategic and philosophical aspects of the demand for a new law should be debated and in the long run a suitable decision should be taken. The report says that for the immediate short run problems of the North-East people, a specific law or specific amendment to the Indian Penal Code (IPC) should be taken up.
Some of the suggestions of the report such as sensitizing police, paramilitary forces, appointing a nodal officer in the ministries of human resource development, culture, information and broadcasting, sports and tourism to monitor implementation of proposed schemes etc. have already been accepted and are being implemented, officials said. "The rest of the recommendations will be taken taken up for consideration in due course," said sources.
The report also calls upon the people of the North-East educate and sensitise themselves about ways of living and adjust to the culture of the metros where they live and work, involve with local communities and be part of the Resident Welfare Associations at local functions and activities.
Major recommendations:
Buildings, institutions to be named after Northeast landmarks like rivers, hills, tribes and icons
Creation of central database of Northeastern people in metros and its linkage to relevant departments and NGOs Setting up a North-East Centre in the capital
One major festival of North-East should be organised in metros every year
No need to visit police station once a witness records statement before a magistrate
Education and sensitisation of people before they arrive in metros
Two-way interaction between people from North-East and local communities in Metros
Cultural exchange programmes for students in schools and colleges
Delhi University and Jawaharlal Nehru University to open campuses in North-East
Salman’s fans are in for an awesome weekend as the makers ofKick have released 3 more posters. Take a look
Earlier today, we told you about Salman Khan’s irresistible look on the latest Kick poster. Well, the makers have released more posters of Kick. And each poster is quite different from the other.
In one poster Salman is posing in a kurta along with Jacqueline Fernandez. It’s a close-up shot and their chemistry is sizzling, we must say! And only Salman can make those glares look cool, don’t you agree?
In another poster, we get to see Randeep Hooda and Nawazuddin Siddiqui, finally! We quite like Jacqueline’s look in this poster. She’s seen in a black body-hugging dress and no denying, she looks hot. Randeep and Nawazuddin too make a smashing entry.
In the third poster, Salman is posing alone with the popular Kick mask in the backdrop. Giving tough looks to the cameras, Salman looks hunkalicious!
Puneeth Rajkumar's "Ranavikrama" has been in the news for many reasons, regarding its leading lady. The latest news is that Bollywood actress Adah Sharma will make her Kannada debut with this film.
Sharma, who started her film career as Lisa Singh Rathod in Vikram Bhatt's 2008 film "1920," was well appreciated for her performance. She was even nominated for Filmfare Awards for the Best female debut category. She later went on to do "Phhir" directed by Girish Dhamija, "Hum Hai Raahi Car Ke" directed by Jyotin Goel and "Hassi Toh Phasee" by Vinil Mathew.
Sharma made her entry into the South Indian film industry with the Telugu flick "Heart Attack" in 2014. The film was directed by Puri Jagannadh and is one of the biggest Telugu hits of 2014. The actress is expected to join the shooting of "Ranavikrama" from 15 July in Bangalore.
The first shooting schedule of "Ranavikrama" was completed in a huge set at Anegondi near Hampi, Bellary.
Initially, Rachitha Ram was selected as the lead. The film later hit the controversy when Ram walked out of the project. Her exit was quite a surprise for those in the industry as she had earlier missed her role in Yogaraj Bhatt's "Vaasthu Prakaara" to act in "Ranavikrama," who has only one more film in her bag, which is Mahesh Sukhadare directorial "Ambareesha."
"Ranavikrama" had also made news with it's title change. The film was launched as "Ranavikrama" but later "Dheera" was added to it and was titled "Dheera Ranavikrama." Soon, the team changed the name back to "Ranavikrama."
"Ranavikrama" directed by Pawan Wadeyar, also has Anjali, Girish Karnad, Charan Raj and Rangayana Raghu in the lead roles. The teaser of the film was launched on 17 March 2014. Puneeth will be seen as a student and a cop in the film, produced by Jayanna Bhogendra under the banner of Jayanna Combines. The cinematography is done by Vaidy S and the music is composed by V. Hariskrishna.
New Delhi: Salman Khan’s much talked-about arrogance has led him to trouble now. With his film ‘Kick’ releasing this month, he has become the latest Bollywood celeb to have been boycotted by the media.
Salman Khan will have to face a clear ban by the photographers till July 25 that also happens to be the release date of his upcoming ‘Kick.’
According to a piece of news published in a leading daily dated July 11, 2014, the photographers’ union has decided to boycott the actor following his rude and uncouth behaviour during a promotional event of ‘Kick’ recently.
The news has it that the actor’s bodyguards had a spat with photographers and Salman showed no sympathy, instead he showered a quite crude statement and said, "Those who want to cover the event are welcome to stay, the rest can leave if they wish."
The Dabbang actor’s fearless attitude surely doesn’t seem to be hampered by this rejection as he is showing no worries after the stint. He has taken it to the twitter to express that he gives a damn to such things. Following are his tweets.
Other Bollywood celebs who have been punished by the media in one way or the other include the names of megastar Amitabhh Bachchan, Saif Ali Khan and wife Kareena Kapoor Khan, Shraddha Kapoor and Jacqueline Fernandez.
During a promotional event of her ‘Ek Villain,’ Shraddha made shutterbugs wait outside and promised to pose but later, as she returned, she refused to get clicked and moved on.
Owing to this, the actress had to suffer a few days ban, even the entire team of ‘Ek Villain’ was asked by the photographers to pose sans Shraddha in frame during the special screening of the film.
Megastar Amitabh Bachchan had faced an entire media ban constituting no interviews, photos and not even a single mention of him in any kind of media, during his peak time. The media ban lasted for almost a decade. It was the era when Bachchan’s biggest hits were going to be on screen.
The reason behind the ban that Mr Bachchan had mentioned later in his blog was that the press was informed by his sources that he had brought an emergency ban over the press. Resulting to which, press only banned him for bringing in such an idea.
A few years ago, during the peak time of Saif and Kareena’s relationship before marriage, the couple made the media wait for many hours before turning up for a rendezvous. The situation became so worse that when the pair arrived, the media stood up and walked out.
Though Saif did apologize for being late, Kareena didn’t show any soft stance and the press debarred the further interaction for that particular event.
Jacqueline Fernandez, who was once made guest of honour at a popular event, arrived much late than the accepted time. And like many other stars, even the lady had to suffer no publicity for that particular event by the media.
If the latest grapevine is true then the Highway starlet may play the lead in Ayan Mukerji’s next. Someone is certainly in demand these days, hai na?
Alia Bhatt is currently the flavour of season. While her last film 2 States entered the Rs 100 crore club, her latest romantic comedy Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania co-starring Varun Dhawan has also got cash registers jingling. No wonder, filmmakers are queuing up to sign up this talented lass. After Imtiaz Ali, successful director Ayan Mukerji is now keen on working with Ms Bhatt. Though Ayan is quite fond of Katrina Kaif and Deepika Padukone, we hear he is in talks with Alia for his next. Now that’s interesting! We dunno much about the project and other details but if Ayan is making a film then his closest buddy Ranbir Kapoor ought to be in it, no? Well, so far only RK has played the male lead in Mukerji’s films so we assume its going to be same this time around as well.
In that case, we do hope this piece of information is true coz then we’ll get to see Ranbir-Alia’s jodi on the big screen. And we are sure it would be nothing less than dhamakedaa
The Murder actor gets candid about his upcoming film Raja Natwarlal
His antics have already earned him the bad boy tag, but that does not stop him from trying out new avenues of film making. With his last two films having dismal runs at the box office, Emraan Hashmiis gearing up for his next release, Raja Natwarlal to shock and attract audiences at large. Playing a conman in the film, Emraan took out time while shooting for a song sequence to talk about his upcoming film.
Although playing a conman, he prefers to call his character a fraud, or in a rather colloquial manner, a ‘charso bees’. “He calls himself a fraud. A conman would be too affluent or elitist a word to describe this character that I play. He comes from the streets and declares, ‘main charso bessi karta hoon’. He prefers small scams to the huge ones, but he is a small time scamster who wants to become the master of the longer version of the game”
He tried taking a leap by choosing some critically acclaimed films over his famous commercial ones but ended up being on the wrong end of things. So will Raja Natwarlal bring back the Emraan his fans always wanted to see? “According to reports, a film that probably earns one third or half the earnings of a commercial film, that would be a critically acclaimed film. I will continue to do such films but the trade is very myopic. Films like Shanghai might not do business or touch the numbers that maybe my other commercially successful films have done. I did two experimental films last year which did not work. Coming back to what I am really known for and stuff that is quintessential box office mainstream stuff, Raja Natwarlal by design has all of it- songs, great drama, story, hero vs villain and kisses (Laughs)!”, he confirmed.
His upcoming film comes almost a year after his last release, which has kept all his fans waiting earnestly. But the delay was inevitable, sums up Emraan. “I had my last release last year in June and it is almost more than year now. But there had been few personal problems and some delays due to which this film took almost ten months to be completed. But I hope Raja Natwarlal lives up to the expectations. My previous films missed out on good music and few other things that I am known for. This song (‘Tere Hoke Rahenge’ sung by Arijit Singh) has chartbuster written all over it. But having said that, I feel if you are confident of your film, no matter when it comes out, your fans will be waiting to watch it.”
Talking about the other films made on scams and their fate, Emraan was pretty clear about their project. “We are not going by the previous yardsticks. The lingo we used in the film is a complete departure from the word con. Con is a very elite term which only multiplex people might know. Con is about a Bollywood film trying to do an Ocean’s Eleven or an Oceans’s Twelve. Our film definitely loops around the frauds but it is more of a revenge story. It is a story of David v/s Goliath, about how an insignificant fraudster tries to bring down a giant which would look impossible-made-possible. But that’s the unique part of the script. So comparing it to any other films would be really irrelevant.”
While other films related to scams, like Special 26 and Ladies v/s Ricky Bahl having worked quite well, will Raja Natwarlal go the same way or will it be another Tees Maar Khan in the making? That only time can say!
A tabloid reported on Monday morning that photographers had gotten together to ban actor Salman Khan and claimed that they would not cover his events anymore.
This decision was apparently taken after the 'Devil' song launch from the upcoming Salman starrer Kick, where there was a tussle between the photographers and the bouncers of Royalty, where the event was held. Reports suggested that photographers had taken a stand and decided to ban Salman Khan and not click any pictures of the star.
However a senior Bollywood photographer says that the matter is blown out of proportion by some photographers with vested interests, and that the majority of them are not involved in the supposed 'ban' over Salman. "We are more than willing to cover Salman and would come anytime Salman calls us. We have neither lodged a complaint against him nor have we asked him to apologize. We are ready to cover all events for Kickand Salman."
Does Mohit Suri still have faith in the Bobby Jasoos actor?
Vidya Balan couldn’t have had it worse. Her latest release Bobby Jasoos had a dismal run at the box office and rumors surfaced today, that she may be dropped from her next film, Vishesh Films’Hamari Adhuri Kahani, directed by Mohit Suri, whose latest film Ek Villain has crossed the 100-crore mark. However Mahesh Bhatt and Mohit dismiss the rumours and say that they staunchly stand by their heroine.
Says Bhatt, “We make films according to our convictions. Vidya Balan is the only woman who can play this role. This film cannot be made without her. She is the only woman who is Indian to the core and has the emotional quotient to carry out such a role. People see through blinkered eyes and limited understanding and pre-suppose because of her last release, that she’s disqualified to do this role. We have argued about this within our own homes much before Bobby Jasoos released, especially when Vidya herself wasn’t sure of doing the film and told us she was thinking of opting out but for us she was our only choice. She is an Indian woman to the core in emotions and looks and she has the range and bandwidth to deliver. It’s not about the box office status, but how connected the actor is to the script and his/her commitment to the film. And Vidya has both those qualities. After reading the script, Mohit also felt the same way. The Fridays write the obituaries of many stars, maybe for the film industry, but not for us. This film will become a winner and hit the bullseye.”
The film had run into some delays. “Yes it the film got delayed by a few months but now the matter has been resolved and there are no ifs and buts about it. It’s not big stars, but the story and way Mohit makes the film that will finally decide its destiny. After the huge successes of Murder3, Aashiqui2 and Ek Villain, Mohit is more enthused and more confident to go into a different story – one that has a huge range of emotions to explore and which will take the path ahead. Vidya will doHamari Adhuri Kahani irrespective of what the market and the phobias of the film industry. The market is never right but the audience always is right. The audiences have the honesty to judge you for what you do. Vidya alone can deliver it. It will be Mohit’s best film!”
So Vidya remains in Hamari Adhuri Kahani despite her last film failing at the BO. Mohit Suri laughs, “My film (Ek Villain) has done well, no? If you look at my past record, I have never really cast big, successful stars in my films. Aditya and Shraddha, who were in Aashiqui2 and even Sidharth Malhotra, were not stars before, I cast according to the character and never for commercial reasons. I am working with Vidya for the actor she is and because she is right for the role. I didn’t even go to any other big actress for this. Only Vidya can play this role. I am not using this film as a commercial vehicle. I signed Rajkummar for Hamari Adhuri Kahani much before Shahid released. I directed Emraan (Hashmi) when he wasn’t a star. After Murder 2, I haven’t directed him. We are not here to make movies according to stardom. Only Shraddha suited Aashiqui2 the best. Nobody else but Vidya Balan can do Hamari Adhuri Kahani. We start around Sept 15 this year. To be fair, the delay was also because I want to get great music for the film. I can’t compromise on that as music has played a huge part right from my first film.”
Hamari Adhuri Kahani is a love story and certainly very different from his last film, the dark, edgy, gritty, Ek Villain. Mohit says, “I have never played safe in my journey as a director. If Aashiqui2 was a love story with a difference, then Ek Villain was something completely different. I just want to make my kind of films. I am not into joining any 100-crore club (laughs) and nor do I want to. I want to make films where everyone involved makes money or some kind of profit. My grandfather who had made over 100 films used to say that a producer should at least have an air conditioner and car after a release. He should earn that much. Hamari Adhuri Kahani is in the BR Chopra mould of films. It’s about, love, value systems, people’s lives from birth to marriage… people will get shocked again (smiles). But if I keep making the same kind of films again and again I will be stuck in a rut and I don’t want that.
After continuously being on stage for 17 years, Rahul Da Cunha's English-language play I'm Not Bajirao is getting the Bollywood treatment. Boss director Tony d'Souza has bought the film rights to the iconic play, which is about two life-long friends, a Parsi and a Maharashtrian.
Boman Irani, who played the Parsi gent on stage, reprises his role for the bada pardah, but it remains to be seen who will play the part made popular by the late Sudhir Joshi until his death in 2005. While Tony remains non-committal about his casting decisions, one learns that the Big B has been approached to play the lead. Says Tony, "Yes, I've bought the rights to the play and I am in the process of casting.
The script is complete. One of the actors has been finalised. I'll announce the two actors as soon as they're both finalised.
If the latest grapevine is true then alleged lovers Ranbir and Kat will soon make their relationship official. Now that’s a relief coz the hide-and-seek game is no longer fun, hai na? While we are keeping our fingers crossed, Bollywoodlifers read on to know how this filmi kahaani started…
Jab They Met:
Sparks flew between Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina Kaif on the sets of Raj Kumar Santoshi’s romantic comedy Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahaani. This was their first film together and the duo got along like a house on fire.
However, Kat was still with Salman Khan and RK was dating Deepika Padukone. But it wasn’t long before things changed. In 2010, Jr Kapoor and DP called it quits courtesy the former’s growing proximity to his Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahaani co-star. And same was the case with Katrina and Salman.
The Ex-factor:
After Ranbir and Kat broke up with their respective partners, reports about their torrid love affair started doing the rounds. However, the Saawariya actor never spoke about his alleged girlfriend Kat coz of Sallu miyaan. Khan had gone all out to promote Ranboo’s debut film and he even played a cameo in it. But Salman and Ranbir’s equation went sour as Katrina left the former to be with the latter. As for Ms Padukone, the talented actor was obviously heartbroken and angry with her ex and that was clearly visible when she graced Karan Johar’s popular chat show Koffee with Karan along with Sonam Kapoor . We all remember lets-bash-Ranbir-Kapoor session, no?
While RK and KK refused to acknowledge their relationship in public, the Kapoor lad’s mommy dearest Neetu Singh was already fond of his new girlfriend. The veteran actor and her hubby Rishi Kapoor worked with the leggy lass in Jab Tak Hain Jaan and we hear they took good care of the starlet during the London schedule of their film. That’s not all! Last year, the Rockstar actor and his mommy were even spotted having dinner with Katrina in London. Though Neetu Singh wasn’t too happy with Ranbir-Deepika relationship, she warmly accepted Ms Kaif as her son’s girlfriend and probable future Kapoor bahu.
Ranbir and Katrina’s relationship was going great until their secret Spanish holiday got busted. The Dhoom:3 babe’s bikini pictures were splashed all over, Jr Kapoor was asked about the same at ever media event and this obviously didn’t go down well with the Kapoor khandaan. While theBarfi! star stood by his ladylove, reports claimed his parents were mighty miffed with the whole bikini fiasco.
Koffee goes Kaput!:
If the whole bikini episode wasn’t enough, Kareena Kapoor Khan announced Kat as her sister-in-law on national television. Ranboo, who was seated besides Bebo on the Koffee couch, was clearly embarrassed. Also, Ms Khan’s outrageous statement made KK’s life difficult as she was grilled about the same at every Dhoom:3 event.
New Year drama:
Are they together? Are they not? – Everybody wanted to know the status of Ranbir-Kat’s relationship after reports about them having a huge fight during their New Year Holiday in New York grabbed headlines. Adding fuel to the fire were RK’s pictures with another girl which went viral on the net. Hush-hush whispers were doing the rounds in B-town that Kat was depressed and going through the lowest phase of her life as Ranbir wasn’t willing to commit.
Moving in together:
After the big fight in New York, the patch up happened sooner than expected. And then details of Ranbir’s Bandra pad being done up became public with a photo of Katrina by his side checking out the interiors. Well, there is confirmation that RK and Kat will move in together in this new house post their return from South Africa sometime in mid June.
South African honeymoon:
All’s well that ends well. Despite all the drama and several ups and downs in their relationship, RK and Kat are presently enjoying a quasi honeymoon in South Africa where they are shooting forJagga Jasoos. We were the first to tell you about their Cape Town date night and photos tell the story of how happy Katrina is looking with her beau by her side. We are glad the couple is spending quality time on the sets of their upcoming film coz they indeed deserve a break.
Kat is busy in Prague shooting for Bang Bang with Hrithik Roshan and Ranboo is also shooting in Corsica for Imtiaz Ali’s Tamasha shoot along with Deepika. But the two have decided to take a day’s off from shooting and spend some quality time together. They might just spend the day in Corsica and then head towards Mumbai together as both their shooting schedules are getting over. Now that is something sweet on both their part.
Wedding bells?
While several sources are indicating that there will be a wedding this year, we can confirm that no such date has been set for now. However, knowing the unpredictable nature of Bollywood celebs, wethinks its best to stick to the phrase – ‘Never say never’
Sushant Singh Rajput
