Brand equations: Dhoni pips Amitabh, SRK is No 2

Brand equations: Dhoni pips Amitabh, SRK is No 2
Mumbai: M S Dhoni has emerged as the hottest property among celebrities, pipping Shah Rukh Khan, Aishwarya Rai and Amitabh Bachchan when it comes to selling a brand.

The rankings are based on a survey by Percept Talent Management and Hansa Research, a media research company, and were arrived at after evaluating the stars on a number of parameters like persuasive power, looks, image attributes, popularity and media presence.

Celebrities considered for the list, which is intended to help brands decide on the most appropriate star to sell their products, included actors, general sports persons and people from the music industry.

In the celebrity category, cricketer M S Dhoni holds first rank followed by Shah Rukh Khan, Aishwarya Rai, Amitabh Bachchan and Sachin Tendulkar.

Sania tops other sports category

The Indian captain also beat out fellow cricketer Yuvraj Singh and Sachin Tendulkar in the cricket category while Sania Mirza topped the other sports category with Vishwanathan Anand and Mahesh Bhupati at the second and the third spot respectively.

In the male actors category, Shah Rukh Khan ranks first while in the female category the number one position is held by Aishwarya Rai.

"The results allow clients and talents to study the changes with the earlier data and allows them to combine the results for an even more robust and long-term understanding of changing public perceptions," Hansa Research''s Managing Director, Ashok Das, told reporters here.

Best & Worst of TV Game/ Reality Shows

It has been a decade since the Television Big Bang, and nine years since the biggest star of Constellation Bollywood decided to break walls and invade the small screen. What we witness now is a Game show deluge.

Reality has a new meaning in the world we live now. It is quite not the one that Eli Seigel or Vittorio De Sica would approve of. Fiction, Economics and Demography have joined hands with Raw Ambiton to form a terrific/terrible cocktail, on TV. They call it "Reality Show".

Click on, for our list of the best and worst TV Game/Reality shows to have appeared on Indian Television to date.

Get out of this Jail

The music of Madhur Bhandarkar's latest will leave you feeling cheated.

Jail comes across as an album that lacks imagination, originality and effort. Moreover, there is hardly anything to listen to. A shame, considering Bhandarkar has often managed to get some great songs for his films.

First up, Jail officially marks the point when we should start complaining about an overdose and misuse of rock-guitar, albeit Bollywood style. This musical device first used effectively by Pritam, has been spawning clones, and Jail is one such unhappy example.

Sharib-Toshi, the reality TV finds, have managed to give us crowd pleasing music earlier. But this time, with only two songs to score, they have shamefully fallen back on formulaic music-making, which borrows heavily from both Pritam and Himesh Reshammiya [ Images ].

Saiyan Ve, is a hackneyed composition with distortion guitars and unimaginative lyrics, sung Himesh style and arranged Pritam style, with some electronic loops thrown in for the dance floor.

It even has a rock and a remix version, which features Neil Nitin Mukesh [ Images ] (backing vocals), who obviously fancies his own singing. In all the versions, Saiyan Ve will fool you with a catchy intro and glossy Bollywood-rock polish, but that's it. There is absolutely nothing new or attractive in this song.

What scares Ranbir Kapoor

Ranbir Kapoor is the fourth generation inheritor of the Kapoor lineage. The younger child of hugely loved actors Rishi and Neetu Kapoor is steadily climbing the ladder to enter Bollywood's big league.

"I understand the frustration of a person who's not from a film family. The amount of struggle he has to go through, he has to work five times harder, but that doesn't take away the fact that I worked hard too. My foray in films may have been easier, I might get big banner films; people are aware of my existence and have certain expectations. They are downsides also; you are criticised more, your fall is harder, and the comparisons are inevitable," he explains his struggle.

In the world's largest democracy, where the Gandhis are looked upon as political royalty, the Kapoors are known for their historical association with Indian celluloid.

Rahul Gandhi is considered the future Prime Minister and Ranbir Kapoor, the next superstar in the making. To draw parallels between the Gandhis and the Kapoors might be rationale for scribes and commentators, yet it is the fascination of Indians with inheritance and values that overrides everything.

Ranbir Kapoor has never seen his lineage as a trap; he's quietly working to enhance his ownership of being a Kapoor. His last two films weren't box office hits, but one couldn't ignore the charisma he exuded on-screen; girls swooned over his towel act and critics were wowed by his acting prowess.

"I think it's the love people have for my family which has been contributing to Indian cinema for 75 years, so I am sure there's some good will which has rubbed off on me. It's a little bit of luck and faith that audiences and filmmakers have shown (in me), which is keeping me alive."

Ashutosh knew about my packed schedule, didn't offer me his next: Ash

New Delhi, Oct 7 Aishwarya Rai has refuted rumours that she was to play the female lead opposite her husband Abhishek Bachchan in Ashutosh Gowariker's next 'Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Se'. The actress says that the director knew about her packed scheduled and the discussion never took place.

Recent media reports suggested that Aishwarya was to play the lead role before Asin was finalised for the film opposite actor Abhishek. But both - the actress and filmmaker - deny it.

'I don't have the dates right now as my schedule diary is super packed. This film ('Khelein Hum...') starts next month. So there never was that possibility,' Aishwarya, who played Rajput princess Jodhabai in Gowariker's historical epic 'Jodhaa Akbar', told Xboard.

'And since Ashu (Ashutosh Gowariker) is a close friend and his main lead is my husband, they obviously knew it. So the discussion didn't even arise,' she added.

Gowariker confirmed it saying: 'I had not approached her (Aishwarya) for 'Khelein Hum...'. Aishwarya, for me, belongs to a fairytale. She is a quintessential princess and by far one of the finest actresses we have.

'But we need to plan things in advance. She is extremely professional and hence I would never like to upset her schedules in any way. I'm very happy with the coming together of Abhishek and Asin.'

'Khelein Hum...' will feature Abhishek as freedom fighter Surya Sen, who was the chief architect of anti-British freedom movement in Chittagong, now in Bangladesh.

This will be Gowariker's second period film after 'Lagaan'.

'Acid Factory is going to be one crazy ride'

The action man of Bollywood, Sanjay Gupta is back with another action flick.

The writer-director known for his dark thrillers and his friendship with Sanjay Dutt [whom he formed a production house White Feather Films with] returns as producer of Acid Factory, a stylish action flick directed by Suparn Verma and starring six cool hunks -- Danny Denzongpa, Dino Morea, Aftab Shivdasani, Manoj Bajpai, Irrfan Khan, Fardeen Khan -- and a sexy Dia Mirza.

So what to expect from this stylish flick? Nithya Ramani finds out.

Why Acid Factory?

Acid Factory started because of Hansal Mehta [director]. He introduced me to mad man Suparn Verma. I heard the script and our journey began from there. The cast of the film were also people I have worked with in the past. The best part was all of them came on board primarily on the merit of the script. Nobody agreed to do the film because of their relationship with me or the banner.

What do you think of Suparn Verma?

Many people ask me what do I look for when I sign on directors. Do I look at their past or their body of work.

For me the most important aspect is the passion the man has to make his movie. In Suparn's case it overflows. My job most of the time is to retain it. He is always ready to take off. That is a big boon for a producer.

'I am very privileged that I am Adnan Sami's son'

His father is a well known musician who unfortunately has been in the news for all the wrong reasons.

But that doesn't faze Azaan Sami, the son of Adnan Sami. The 15-year-old is following in his father's footsteps and hopes to make it in Bollywood by launching his own album soon.

He spoke to rediff.com's Nithya Ramani about starting out at such a young age and his Bollywood plans.

How does it feel to become a public figure at the age of 15?

I am a bit nervous. My dad told me that he could only help me with my debut. After that I was on my own. There's a lot of pressure and the expectations are high.

My mom and dad check my work very critically and that keeps me grounded. I can only pray that one day I can compose like my dad. There is also an advantage with me starting so young. That way, by the time I am 21-22, I will be a seasoned singer.

How did you decide to get into the music field?

I composed my first song when I was seven. It was just a hobby for a couple of years. Then I went through the same dilemma of every young person -- what to pursue. I realised that I cannot do the same thing every day. So I decided to do something in arts. I explored everything -- sculpture, painting, filmmaking. I did a film when I was 13. What I like the most about the film was the music and acting part. I am also interested in direction, cinematography and photography.

Yash Raj-Sony to produce TV serials

After making movies for close to four decades, Yash Raj Films has decided to step into the world of small screen by producing television serials and reality shows.

The production house has entered into an agreement with Sony TV to produce fiction and non-fiction content for the channel. "

"Yash Raj Films has been at the forefront in making feature films for almost four decades. We have created our own space with the efforts of a wonderful team, this collaboration gives us an opportunity of producing television content that we believe in -- shows that will engage and entertain the large television audience in India," Yash Chopra [ Images ], YRF Chairman said in a statement.

"Television is the biggest mass medium in India and this collaboration between Sony Entertainment Television and YRF will bring the very best in TV entertainment with high quality production values which will appeal to the entire family," said N P Singh, COO of Sony Entertainment Television.

Sanjay Gupta hasn't ghost directed 'Acid Factory': Suparn Verma

Suparn Verma, the director of 'Acid Factory', is upset with rumours that his forthcoming action thriller has been ghost directed by producer Sanjay Gupta.

"Saying that Sanjay Gupta has actually directed 'Acid Factory' seems to me on the same lines as Karan (Johar) or Adi (Aditya Chopra) being accused of the same for their home productions. I guess there is always a suspicion like this whenever a big filmmaker decides to hand over the ropes to a relative newcomer. It's my turn now," Verma told us.

The filmmaker had made his debut as a director with Fardeen Khan-Koena Mitra-starrer 'Ek Khiladi Ek Haseena' (2005).

"I have a question for all those rumour mongers out there. Tell me, why would a producer hire a director, pay him good money (and that too on time) and then eventually direct the entire film himself?

"If I was in the producer's place, I would rather buy a house if I had some extra cash than throw it around to a newer director without expecting any output," he said.

Verma maintains that Gupta allowed him complete control over the film.

"Sanjay Gupta is someone who would put money on you only if he feels you are worth it. In fact he was quite categorical in stating that he didn't want me to follow his style of filmmaking. He told me that he would be happy only if I refrained from thinking how Sanjay would feel about a particular shot. This incident happened seven days before the shoot and he has maintained his stance right through the scripting, shooting and post- production," he said.

Verma, who has earlier scripted films like 'Zameen', 'Qayamat' and 'Yeh Kya Ho Raha Hai?' amongst others, doesn't have any complaints about the making of the film.

"Sanjay is a man of his words. I always had all the resources in place. No one would have allowed me Rs.21 crore to make a film if he wouldn't have believed in me. I have my own visual and narrative style and this is why it is quite demeaning when people point fingers at you.

"Sanjay has multiple films at different stages of production. He would have to be god if he were to be directing all these films simultaneously at different locations," Verma said.

An action thriller, 'Acid Factory' features Fardeen Khan, Dia Mirza, Irrfan Khan, Manoj Bajpai, Dino Morea, Aftab Shivdasani and Danny Denzongpa and is set to release Friday.

Aamir Khan to play AIDS victim in film with Amitabh Bachchan

Filmmaker Priyadarshan, whose film social drama `Kanchivaram` won a National Award, has roped in none other than Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan for his next “realistic” project, a film on AIDS.

The director revealed that Aamir has said yes to the film which deals with the disease and the social stigma attached to it.

“My next film is a meaningful and realistic take on AIDS. I have narrated the story to Aamir and he really liked it, though I have not presented him a bound script yet,” Priyadarshan told reporters at the sidelines of Delhi International Art Festival.

This will be the first time that the filmmaker will be working with Aamir but when asked about the one actor he wishes to work with, Priyadarshan did not wait before replying, “Big B”.

“I have worked with Mr Bachchan on advertisements but I want to shoot a feature film with him. It would be a great experience,” said the filmmaker.

AIDS is still a taboo topic in Bollywood though South Indian filmmaker Revathy and Onir had explored the subject in their films `Phir Milenge` and `My Brother Nikhil`. While `Phir Milenge` had a star studded cast including Salman Khan, Shilpa Shetty and Abhishek Bachchan, `My Brother Nikhil` starred Sanjay Suri, Juhi Chawla and Purab Kohli.

Priyadarshan who has directed superhit comedies like `Hera Pheri` and `Malamaal Weekly` said that the National Award, his first ever, has inspired him to take risks with off-beat cinema.

“I finally got an award after 25 years in the industry and it is a great recognition. All those who thought that I could do nothing more than comedies and remakes have been proved wrong and you will see many more realistic films from my side,” said Priyadarshan.

The filmmaker is currently shooting for a yet-untitled film starring Ajay Devgan and Akshaye Khanna in Tamil Nadu, while Aamir Khan is working on his film `Three Idiots` where he stars alongside Kareena Kapoor and R Madhavan.`

Zee

'SRK's memory is phenomenal'

Filmmaker Tarun Mansukhani, 33, who was in New York recently to attend the I View film festival organised by the advocacy group Engendered, talked at length about his value system, the influence his mother has had on him, and the genres that are close to his heart as a filmmaker.

He has served as an assistant on a string of hit films before Karan Johar (whom he had assisted on many films including Kuch Kuch Hota Hai) asked him to direct Dostana. Mansukhani has also served as an assistant to Aditya Chopra on Mohabaatein and to Nikhil Advani on Kal Ho Naa Ho.

Before thius interview started in a suite in Radisson in mid-Manhattan, Mansukhani, who looks younger than he is, said he needed to smoke.

"No, you can't," I told him, smiling. "I am not smoking here," he said. "I am dashing off the street."

After the interview, he said, he enjoyed very much but he was going off to the street again.

"It was a good interview. Why do you want to smoke again?" I said. "You never know how the next one will be," he said laughing as he raced to the street corner.

You have announced Dostana 2. What are the challenges have you set for yourself?

It cannot be more of the same. As I am writing, I am constantly conscious of the fact that it should have new elements, new tension, new twists and everything about it should look and sound fresh.

Even the title?

I don't want to call it Dostana 2. I will be using the word in the title, of course, but it has to be far more imaginative than Dostana 2. It has to have an identity of its own. It is funny, even when Dostana was made, we had everything in place but the title came up the last. It might happen this time, too.

Shahid Kapur and Amrita Rao will go NAKED and NUDE for PETA

Shahid Kapur and Amrita Rao will be seen together in a PETA advert and they’ll be wearing next to nothing to bring out the feel of vegetarianism!

They join the ranks of Pamela Anderson (who posed in a cabbage bikini), Aditi Gowitrikar (who was also covered in leaves) and Sherlyn Chopra (who posed in racy lingerie). Shahid has been a vegetarian since the age of 18 and Amrita Rao also converted to vegetarianism ten years ago.

The campaign will be shot next month and will re-unite the onscreen pair for the first time since Vivaah. They have also been romantically linked in the past but have dismissed the rumours, insisting they are just friends. Yet they are keen on working together as they are comfortable in each other’s company. The advert will feature them wrapped in tomato vines as the look is ‘tomato-and-pepper’. ‘Let Vegetarianism Grown on You’ is the theme of the campaign.

A source said that Shahid was chosen because he was voted the sexiest vegetarian and Amrita Rao is a sexy girl-next-door who promotes vegetarianism. What’s more is that they look good together. He adds that Amrita has already tried the sexy look in Shortkut but she failed. Amrita will wear hot pants and a tube top in the advert. She wants to give it (her sexy avatar) another (vegetarian) shot and the campaign will get people talking about her and she does need some publicity. Shahid will flaunt his chiselled six-pack-abs and it will be his sexiest look since ‘the running with the horses sequence’ in Kaminey.

Shahid is currently in the US and was unavailable for comment while Amrita Rao said that she was looking forward to the campaign which will spread the message of how sexy vegetarianism is.

Bollywood is jealous of me: Priyadarshan

South Indian filmmaker Priyadarshan, who won a National Award for his social drama 'Kanchivaram', says that jealousy led people in Bollywood to stereotype him as a director of comedies and remakes.

The helmer of superhit comedies like 'Hera Pheri' and 'Malamaal Weekly' said that despite the unrequited tag he has no plans to wash his hands off commercial comedies.

"The whole problem is that, unfortunately I have been successful. In the history of Indian cinema I am the only South Indian director who has survived for 12 years and 25 films in Bollywood. It is jealousy that leads people to tarnish you," Priyadarshan told us.

The filmmaker who claims to be the "only successful South Indian director" in the industry said that he finds commercial cinema a tougher genre than off-beat ones.

"Just because I won the National Award, does not mean I plan to become the next Shyam Benegal or Adoor. Realistic non-commercial films offer you a lot more liberty as a director than a usual film," said he.

"On the other hand while making a commercial film you are constantly thinking, will the mass audience like this, will they accept this? It is a lot more difficult to make a typical Bollywood film than a realistic film," says Priyadarshan who was in the capital for the Delhi International Arts festival.

"I don't mind any tags until they pay me well," said the filmmaker who along with his good friend, actor Mohanlal created cult hits in Malayalam like 'Chitram' and 'Kilukkam'.

Priyadarshan whose next film is a typical Bollywood laugh riot 'De Dana Dhan' starring Akshay Kumar and Katrina Kaif, believes that he is doing a social service through his comedy films.

"I am actually doing social service by making comedies, because making people laugh is the most difficult thing to do. When people come and watch a film of mine, I am helping them forget their troubles, isn't that social service," said Priyadarshan adding that he now wants to strike a balance between his commercial and off-beat ventures.

"I enjoy doing commercial cinema and it gives me fame and money while the other gets me recognition. I want both. I am currently shooting for a film with Ajay Devgan and Akshaye Khanna, about Bihar and there is a film with Aamir Khan about AIDS," said Priyadarshan.

After 25 years in the industry, the filmmaker is happy that due recognition has finally come his way and says that his film was an attempt to showcase the true India, which in his words is not "a slum, like some people would like to believe."

"India is a cultural superpower, a nuclear superpower. It is not a slum like some people would like to believe. When I was making 'Kanchivaram', I wanted to make a film that would showcase India's heritage, it's culture and history," said Priyadarshan.

Shilpa Puts Career Ahead of Marriage

It's not that Shilpa Shetty's career is at a very happening phase. But she does have at least one film as a leading lady, a film which is yet to release. The film is 'The Man', which is being produced by Sunny Deol, also the film's leading man. For some reason or the other, the film has been getting delayed and is yet to be completed. According to sources, Shilpa seems to have lost out on a couple of assignments because of this movie and also had to postpone her wedding plans. Initially the actress was planning a grand wedding around Christmas in London. But if sources are to be believed, then she has canned all those plans and rescheduled her wedding for next year. It seems that Sunny and his movie were partly responsible for the shift in wedding plans after the film's release. And that is the big question. There is big question mark surrounding the film which has been in the making for a while now. In fact, one had even heard of reports about Sunny not being particularly happy with Shilpa doing an item number for Tarun Mansukhani's 'Dostana' as he had felt that it might affect his film which stars Shilpa as the leading lady. But a year has since passed and there seems to have been little progress on the film's front. In fact, if reports are to be believed, then a current schedule of the film to be held in London, was cancelled last week. One can quite understand Shilpa's concern about her movie. I means, she cannot keep Raj Kundra waiting forever, can she?

Salman’s trainer in Race 2!

Here’s another buzz that reveals more on his human side. It seems Salman Khan is being a backbone to his fitness instructor, Abbas Aly, for stepping into screens.

Rumours are making its round that due to Salman’s influence, Abbas has won over few films, including big bannered ones. Abbas, who had Bipasha Basu and Anil Kapoor under his training, has in fact done few cameo roles before. He said to sources that Salman bhai is encouraging him to become a full-fledged actor. “I’m grateful to him and now, with his blessings, I’m part of Race 2 and also an international project,” Abbas revealed.

Wah! Kya baath hey!

Kajol makes Kareena nervous

Kareena Kapoor is leaving nothing to chance this time. Determined to match strides with the formidable scene-stealer Kajol in the Hindi version of Stepmom, the actress has been quietly attending acting workshops with the film's director Siddharth Malhotra.

"The last time I rehearsed for a part was for Vishal Bharadwaj's Omkara. But that was a more unconventional film and role where I had to get into a milieu and character I knew nothing about. But Stepmom is urban and very contemporary. I play a very normal metro-centric working girl," said Kareena.

Malhotra's film is inspired by director Chris Columbus 1998 hit drama Stepmom, a heartwarming tale of two women - divorced Susan Sarandon and the new woman (Julia Roberts) in her ex-husband's life - and the problems they face to find a common ground of understanding.

And to attend the workshops, Kareena has been stealing time out of the rehearsals for a song she began shooting with Aamir Khan in 3 Idiots. Through the workshops Kareena is discovering how difficult it is to play a normal girl. "I walk, talk, dress like an ordinary working girl. I'll be using no makeup."

Bollywood's ace designer Manish Malhotra too is having a hard time trying to bring down Kareena's glamour quotient in Stepmom to look like an ordinary working woman. "I couldn't cut my hair as planned because of continuity clashes. And I didn't want to cut my long hair. But I'm going for a new hairstyle," said Kareena.

The two actresses start shooting together from the end of this month.

Talking abour Kajol, Kareena said: "She's always been one of my favourite actresses. We worked together in Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham. But this is something else."

There will be a lot of dramatic scenes between the two women in the movie. "The desi version of Stepmom is very different from the original. My role is also a big departure from what Julia Roberts played in Stepmom," Kareena said.

WANTED crosses 50 crs; is 2nd biggest grosser...

In two weeks flat, WANTED has turned out to be the second biggest money spinner of 2009. While LOVE AAJ KAL leads the honours with 66 crores already under its belt, WANTED has crossed 50 crores in two weeks flat. The first week's collections of the film read 34 crores while the second week has recorded further 18 crores, hence making the film a 52 crores earner.

Fun is not yet over for WANTED. The movie is doing well even in its third week and as things stand today, milestone of 60 crores being achieved by the end of third week doesn't seem impossible. Even though the film is already a comfortable HIT, a further rise in the box office standing of WANTED would be determined by how well does it manage to hold itself despite the twin release of WAKE UP SID and DO KNOT DISTURB.

CHECK OUT: Aamir interested in knowing WANTED collections!

It would be an exciting march for the film from here on as it has decent chances of toppling LOVE AAJ KAL from the position of being the highest grossing film of the year. With some stretch over next fortnight (9th October is relatively easier with only ACID FACTORY being in the fray), the film can inch closer to the 65 crores mark. However, something that one can't deny is the fact that WANTED has its target audiences set in single screens and hence moolah coming from smaller centres can't really be compared with the mega and quick buck inflow from multiplexes.

All in all, WANTED success has created an example of being the biggest money spinner ever that got majority of revenue share from single screens without being overtly dependent on multiplexes. Now that's Salman's 'jalwa'!

The most controversial shows on TV

Reality shows are feeling the heat.

With a host of new shows mushrooming every season, pressure is on to stand out and raise TRP ratings, which often means resorting to cheap and shocking tactics.

We bring you a few that made headlines.

Pati Patni Aur Woh

Would you hand over your child to complete strangers for a day, forget weeks?

Well, NDTV Imagine's new reality television show Pati Patni Aur Woh found itself mired in controversy when the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights sent a notice to the makers of the show asking them to stop its telecast claiming violation of a child's rights.

Rakhi Sawant and her partner on the show, Elesh Parujanwala, Apoorva Agnihotri and Shilpa Saklani are among the celebrity couples taking part in the show.

Pati Patni Aur Woh is an adaptation of the BBC's popular format Baby Borrowers where parents hand over their children to celebrity couples, who then care for them on the show as their own. The whole experiment is to see how the celebrity couples handle parenthood.

In the BBC show, the children's parents supervise the proceedings in adjacent rooms throughout the show, and are free to intervene if they perceive the slightest risk to their child. BBC also has qualified nurses and doctors on call 24X7 for any emergency.

Now that the Delhi High Court High Court has allowed NDTV Imagine to telecast the desi version, it remains to be seen if the channel can make sure the show goes on without a hitch.

'Everyone thinks I am too sweet to play a bitch'

Dia Mirza is keeping her fingers crossed for her film Acid Factory slated for October 9. During her breezy visit in Kolkata, she tells India Blooms correspondent Sreya Basu that Bollywood is not easy to handle.

We heard you have literally put your heart into Acid Factory...

In fact, why only heart? I put my heart, head, eyes, muscles... everything. In short, I put my entire being into Acid Factory. This film is really important for me.

Why? Just for the sake of box office?

Yes. But not only box office. For the first time, I have tried to break away from my image of an all-virtuous Bollywood heroine and experimented with greyer shades.

'I want a box office hit'

Asked what they want, box office or awards, many movie stars may be tempted to say, "both," but recently Konkona Sen Sharma bluntly told Karan Johar, "Box office."

The film-maker who has cast her as a writer who gives meaning to a slightly younger male (Ranbir Kapoor) in the admirable Wake Up Sid was interviewing her recently on his show. Awards, Konkona told him, she has in plenty.

It is not that she hasn't been featured in box-office hits such as Life in a Metro and Page 3 but those are small budget films (compared to an Akshay Kumar or a Shah Rukh Khan movie).

Now, it looks like she has another arthouse hit. Wake Up Sid, according to distributors UTV, has grossed a healthy $4.2 million worldwide in three days. In North America, its $350,000 gross smartly outbeats Do Knot Disturb which made $124,000. and the laughing stock of the season What's Your Raashee? continued its doomed run earning $237,000 in 10 days in North America.

Hers is an engaging role in Wake Up Sid, she says, adding that she plays a Bengali woman with insights into life. She has arrived in Mumbai to be a writer. She wants to do something new. Like a holiday, Sid asks her. No, she firmly answers, 'Like Life.'

Vote: Who is most likely to win Bigg Boss 3?

Bigg Boss Season 3, the desi version of Big Brother, comes with unique twists this year making it bigger and better.

For starters we have a brand new host -- Amitabh Bachchan -- whose rich baritone is sure to keep us hooked to the goings on in the house.

Then there are the housemates themselves, a mix of newsmakers including an item girl, a music director, an actress, a comedian and a non-celebrity -- all set to woo you for your votes.

While it's still too early to vote for your favourite, there's no harm in speculating who has the staying power. To make your job easier, we bring the contestants to you. All you have to do is vote who is most likely to stay on till the end.

We begin with Sherlyn Chopra, who continues to hog the limelight with her sexy bikini pictures and famous quotes though her entry into Bollywood with skin-baring flicks such as Time Pass, Naughty Boy, Game and Red Swastik is nothing to write home about.

Last year Bigg Boss 2 slammed the door on her for making bold demands. It was reported that the sexy diva was willing to bathe on camera in return for Rs 3 crore.

In the meantime, Sherlyn tried her hand at singing and launched her first album Outrageous followed by a second one titled Dard-E-Sherlyn. She was seen recently in a big banner film Dil Bole Hadippa.

So will this beauty's oomph factor be enough to take her to the finale? Only time will tell.

I play a hero in 'Acid Factory': Dia Mirza

Bollywood beauty Dia Mirza, who has shed her delicate doll image for the upcoming film 'Acid Factory', insists that she is one of the heroes in the movie and not a heroine.

"My character is called Max, who is a daredevil. She is no less than a man, as you can understand from the name itself. You can say I play a hero in the movie, not a heroine," Mirza says.

The 27-year-old actress, who had to perform a number of stunts and action sequences in the film, says that the character of Max is like an alter-ego of herself, but is not a tomboy.

The former Miss Asia Pacific says that her look was revamped in the film to suit her character.

"My look in the film is quite opposite to that of my real life. It has been stylised by Shantanu and Nikhil, who had to keep it feminine as well as very structured and strong. There aren't many changes because it is a single day's story, so I wear a full-bodied black suit for the most part," says Mirza.

The actress, who believes that strength lies in the will and not in physical capability, had to go through rigorous training to gather strength to be able to do the action scenes in 'Acid Factory'.

"I had to undergo 5-6 months of functional training which strengthens your core, then I trained in action for three weeks," said Mirza, who made her mark in Bollywood with her debut film 'Rehna Hai Tere Dil Mein' in 2001.

Mirza is the only actress in 'Acid Factory' which has stars like Aftab Shivdasani, Dino Morea, Irrfan Khan, Danny Dengzongpa and Manoj Bajpai playing major roles.

"Manoj ji called me Deepak on the sets because I am like a boy in the film," said Mirza.

When asked whether she felt overshadowed by the presence of so many macho men in the film, the actress shot back, "How can a woman ever be overshadowed by men?"

Talking about her co-stars, Mirza had something to say about each one of them.

"Fardeen is very well-brought up, he is a gentleman. He was very protective on the sets and also taught me the technique and execution of some action moves," said Mirza.

Bipasha chucked out of Abhi-Ash starrer ‘Raavan’

Mumbai: Bollywood’s Bengali beauty Bipasha Basu is quite upset about losing out on the opportunity to play an important role in Mani Ratnam’s ‘Raavan’. Bips was to play Abhishek Bachchan’s wife Mandodari in the film, which also stars Aishwarya Rai, but the latest news suggests that the actress is not doing the film anymore.

When asked about the reason for her role being scrapped, Bips responded, “I am sad... but it’s better than having my role chopped or totally edited... when lot of effort had gone to work out the role for this guest character.”

Although the real reason behind Bipasha’s ouster is unknown yet, an insider alleged that her character in the film was proving to be a bit too strong and was kind of disrupting the length of the film. Grapevine has it that Bips has been moved out of the project as she might be proving to be a threat to other actresses in the film like Ash and Priya Mani.

However, it has been clarified by Mani Ratnam’s spokesperson that the filmmaker did want to work with Bipasha but, at the same time, didn’t want to do injustice to the actress’ role.

Now let’s see if Bips will be replaced or Mandodori’s role will be completely scrapped the movie

Salman Khan gets a BMW worth Rs 75 lakh for a gift

Ahmedabad: Bollywood’s bad boy turned good boy Salman Khan’s luck seems to be shining these days, for after having his latest film ‘Wanted’ become a super hit, the guy’s got lucky again and this time with a car.

According to reports, Salman has been gifted a whole new BMW (XB) worth a whopping Rs 75 lakh by a Gujarat based businessman.

The actor personally flew down to Ahmedabad to take the delivery of his new BMW on Monday at Parsoli Motors and took some underprivileged children on drive in his car.

Zafar Sareshwala, who owns the BMW dealership in Gujarat with his brother Talha Sareshwala said, “ Salman is a family friend and this is just a token of appreciation. He wanted to buy this car and I didn’t want him to buy it from elsewhere hence we gifted him. “

I absolutely admire Aditya, says Rani Mukerji

Mumbai: Not sticking to the ‘just friends’ tag anymore, Rani Mukerji has finally broken her stoic silence about her much talked about relationship with the Yash Raj scion Aditya Chopra. The bong bombshell, who is often linked with the famous filmmaker, has finally spoken about the ‘special relationship’ the duo shares.

Full of praises for Aditya, the doe-eyed beauty, in an interview to a daily, stated, "I have a very special relationship with Adi. He`s a person who I absolutely admire and respect. He always had faith in me since the beginning. He was the one who spotted me in ‘Raja Ki Aayegi Baraat’ and recommended me to Karan for ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’.

"He and Shah Rukh were instrumental in changing Karan`s mind about me. Karan didn`t think I was hip enough for the role. It`s very easy for people to make assumptions, but it doesn`t bother me because I am enjoying my work. I`m in a very happy state of mind right now. My film has done well; my family is here; my friends have appreciated my work" she further added.

But call her the Yash Raj Films` fav actress and the dusky babe is quick to attack. Talking about her series of flicks with the banner, Rani said, "Coincidentally, all the roles I`ve done in the recent past have come from the same banner. I would`ve done those films had anyone else offered them to me too. Of course, I have a comfort factor with Yash Raj. I`ve done 12 films with them. You often see many actors working with only certain directors. Actors like Hrithik, Shah Rukh, and Akshay have done a lot of films with people they are close to. But they`re never questioned over their decisions. A woman is always scrutinised for her it. But it`s okay. I`m not minding the movies I am doing with Yash Raj. It doesn`t bother me what people say".

Well, Rani sure knows how to defend her loved ones!

Shahid’s bums need help!

The actor wears bum bags to accentuate his hips. Unlike actors who are more bothered about their arms or abs or chest, Shahid doesn’t underestimate the power of his derriere. One hears that he always wants his hips look nice and round when he faces the camera.

A bum bag is a small fabric pouch secured with a zipper and worn at the waist fastened with a strap around the hips. It has different names like fanny pack (Canada, US), belt pack (US), belly bag (US), buffalo pouch (US), hip sack (US) and hip pack (UK).

A source says, “Shahid has been wearing bum bags ever since his debut film, Ishq Vishk in 2003.”

Although Shahid has worked really hard to have the perfect physique and has also managed to put on some weight in certain parts, his near-flat backside continues to worry him. “He has been unable to put on weight on his hips. Actually, he has a very lean and boyish structure,” adds the source.

Incidentally, Shahid does not wear bum bags at home. “He arrives on the sets very casually. But, once he enters his vanity van, he makes sure that he wears bum bags in every single shot,” says the source.

Must say we are quite impressed with your quest for perfection, Shahid.

All about bum bags

A fashion designer (name withheld on request) spoke to Mumbai Mirror:
MM: What exactly are bum bags?
FD: These are commonly called butt pads. They are like boxer shorts or panties, which one wears to accentuate the hip area. Models and actors usually use them.
FD: How much can it accentuate one’s hips?
MM: At least three inches for sure.
MM: Whare are they available?
FD: These are freely available in the market. One can get good quality butt bags from abroad. We usually buy them from lingerie shops at Lokhandwala Complex, Andheri.
MM: How do you decide which one to buy?
FD: Once we know whom we are buying it for, there is no problem.
MM: Are they comfortable?
FD: Yeah. The stuffing inside is just like you have in padded bras.
MM: Do men as well as women wear butt bags?
FD: Yes. But, there is no ratio or percentage that can determine which gender uses it more.

Two Khans down, two more left – Asin

Asin Thottumkal will return to the movies in Vipul Shah’s London Dreams exactly 10 months after her blockbuster Ghajini hit theatres in December 2008. She is elated with her new avatar as a ‘rock-chic’ romancing both Salman Khan and Ajay Devgn on screen. Asin is also ecstatic about her commercial with India’s hot-shot cricket captain M S Dhoni. “Let’s not call it the Dhoni influence, but I’ll describe my career so far in cricket lingo,” she says. “I started my innings with Aamir Khan and I continued my good spell with Salman. That is two Khans down, two to go (Shah Rukh Khan and Saif Ali Khan).”

About her interaction with Dhoni, she says, “Mahi was friendly and fun while working.”

What she’s amused by these days is waking up to new rumours each morning. Says Asin, “I share a fabulous working relationship with Salman and Ajay. There is nothing more. But I don’t know how to react to fresh reports each day that say I’m dating Salman. Honestly, Salman and my equation has been the same from day one. We are friends and will hopefully continue to remain so.”

While she sincerely hopes that the news of her extra-special relationship with Salman dies a natural death, she also has her fingers crossed about bagging films with the uber cool Ranbir Kapoor and the light-eyed Imran Khan, who she describes as “heroes closer to my age.”

Aamir Khan and Kareena sizzle in rain for ‘3 Idiots’!

Spicezee Bureau Xboard

Mumbai: Come December and you’ll get to see Aamir Khan and Kareena Kapoor paired opposite each other for the first time in Raju Hirani’s ‘3 Idiots.’

With the movie in its final stages of completion, Aamir and Kareena were recently spotted cavorting in the rains for as long as three days in Film City. Both the stars have been drenching in simulated rain for a love song for the past three days.

Talking to a news paper, a close source from the film set said, "This is the final song which is being shot on the lead pair. Aamir and Bebo both have to be under water and as they are practically sitting in wet clothes for the whole day, they are taking adequate measures not to fall sick. This is the last shooting stint for the film, after which the film will be termed complete and move towards post production."

Based on Chetan Bhagat’s famous novel ‘Five Point Someone’ and produced by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, ‘3 Idiots’ will hit the theaters during this Christmas. Apart from Aamir and Kareena, ‘3 Idiots’ also stars Sharman Joshi and R Madhavan.

It's Bigg Boss Vs King Khan

Amitabh Bachchan makes his big comeback on the small screen with 'Bigg Boss' season 3. While the pop philosopher is this season's biggest splash, Shah Rukh Khan might try to eat into his pie of TRPs.With an advertising budget like never before, enternatinment channel 'Colours' is leaving no stones unturned to bite the largest share of the revenue pie by riding on the popularity of the superstar of the millenium. But, competitor 'Star Plus' is counting on Farah Khan's host and Superstar Shah Rukh Khan to fight the battle with his tongue-in-cheek humour and a personal touch on the chat-show 'Tere Mere Beech Mein'.

With the audiences divided in a tug-of-war between the 'Shehanshah' and the "Baadshah', Sunday 9pm slot will decide which button of the television remote the viewers will succumb to.

Namashkar, it is Bigg Boss Tritiya!

Television's most popular reality show is back in its third season. Bigg Boss Season 3 or Tritiya as Amitabh Bachchan kept calling it, took off on Sunday night with characteristic drama and some surprises.

Bachchan slipped into his role of anchor and pop philosopher with consummate ease, and the promos of the star looked quite stylish indeed. He also seemed to have done his homework well, pulling out all the stops to woo the fans of the reality show.

He spoke in chaste Hindi, quoted from his father's poetry, interacted with the families of the contestants, accepted the effusive show of affection and adulation from each and every member, flirted lightly, made witty remarks and pulled a few fast ones as well on the unsuspecting. It should be a treat to watch him in the forthcoming episodes.

The final 13 contestants of this season were unveiled in the first, marathon episode. Out-of-luck music director and reality TV regular Ismail Darbar, internet star Sherlyn Chopra , famous for her "I want to die in a bikini" quotes, ex-Miss India and now glamorous reel mom Poonam Dhillon, reality TV -find, comedian Raju Srivastav, baby-faced muscleman and now hero's sidekick Vindu Dara Singh, self-styled actor-director-writer of 'patriotic' films Kamal R K aka KRK, joined-at-the hips TV actors and dancers Tanaz and Bakhtiyar Irani, ex-model and Khatron ke Khiladi veteran Aditi Govitrikar , flop starlet Shamita, better known as Shilpa Shetty's little sister, Salman Khan's German co-star from the long-forgotten Marigold Claudia Ciesla , ostensibly effeminate designer Rohit Verma flamboyantly dressed in a flowing gown, thick eye-lashes and lipstick, and finally, Jaya Sawant, whose daughter got engaged on reality TV. No points for guessing that one.

Besides including a married couple and a designer in drag, the other surprises were a 'jail' for punishing errant housemates, and a chance for you to be inside the Bigg Boss house in the forthcoming episodes as the 14th member.

We don't know if the last move was pre-planned or a hasty cover-up for a negotiation that fell through. In fact, according to some reports, the channel had sent a chartered flight for Sidhu to be on the show, but he backed out at the last moment.

It is quite an entertaining bunch if you look closely. In the introductory episode itself, some of the inmates wasted no time in establishing their intent.

KRK began making pinching comments about some of the clothes the women were wearing, Vindu Dara Singh seemed keen to be this season's Rahul Mahajan , by generally looking affable and enthusiastic, and greeting everyone by their first names. Ismail Darbar kept walking around darkly, quietly as if deeply scrutinising everything and everyone, Sherlyn Chopra made a big deal about untying her choli, almost plastering herself to the camera. And finally Rohit Verma, called himself a "Hiroshima Nagasaki bomb" and asked the inmates of they wanted him to use the men's or the women's bedroom.

Things can only get delightfully murkier from here.

The inclusion of Jaya Sawant could only mean two things. Either another last-minute negotiation fell through and no one else was willing to step in, or it is just a ploy to get even with rival channel NDTV Imagine which hosted Rakhi ka Swayamvar recently, and soon Rahul Mahajan's Swayamvar. Mahajan as we know, was until now a Colors' protege.

Jaya Sawant was made to weep and wail over her daughter's photographs from the reality show, and seek justice for not having been invited by the 'channel' to her daughter's big event.

"My own deserted me, and you have so graciously welcomed me," she cried into the camera. Poor woman has never been on stage, faced the world outside, stood trembling before Bachchan, tongue-tied.

Things don't look any better inside the house either, and she does look horribly out of place with her obvious lack of social skills. With such high-pitched melodrama Colors would make Ekta Kapoor very proud indeed.

Other than the repeated Tritiya, Bachchan's KBC hangover continued with, "Lock kiya jai!"

Moreover, no matter what the question, each and every housemate started with, "Sir main ek baat kehna chahta hun..." and launched a series of Bachchan memories and anecdotes. The star did manage to smile graciously through them all, but it was quite a tedious watch. Also the audio quality on the stage was shockingly poor.

Nevertheless, Bigg Boss Tritiya, looks all set to hog your bandwidth in the weeks to come. What with Bachchan's engaging and witty lines, the juicy bunch of contestants and the guilty pleasure of being a voyeur.

Do Knot Disturb yourself with this film

If David Dhawan and Govinda come together in a film, you can be sure of some non-stop entertainment. After all, they have rained down hits like Coolie No 1 [ Im, Hero No 1, Deewana Mastana and Partner.

Unfortunately, Do Knot Disturb falls way short of expectations and you start wondering if the director has lost his magic touch.

The trouble with the film is its story. It's so weak that one cannot expect the actors to do their comic act and keep the audiences entertained.

Govinda plays a rich businessman, whose interest is only to take care of his mistress Dolly (Lara Dutta ) rather than do any work. He runs his wife's (played by Sushmita Sen ) business, who guesses that her husband is cheating on her. She hires a detective (Ranvir Shorey ) to catch her husband in the act.

Govinda outsmarts her by getting Ritesh Deshmukh to act as Lara's boyfriend, so that his wife rests her fears.

The problem arises when Govinda starts doubting Ritesh's intentions. Much else unfolds on screen but you're bored stiff by now.

Rajpal Yadav and Sohail Khan try to make the plot interesting but they fail as the story goes nowhere. The dialogues are loud and repetitive.

Lara Dutta fails to impress and Sushmita Sen has put on oodles of weight. Hello, just because you're playing a housewife doesn't mean you have to put on so much weight!

Govinda and Ritesh do well but the script fails them.

Music director Nadeem-Shravan return after a long time but they have come up with only one good song called Bebo.

The film has some good one-liners but that is not what you expect from a David Dhawan film. Do Knot Disturb yourself this weekend on this film.

Wake Up Sid in trouble

Karan Johar's latest production Wake Up Sid has come into trouble from the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena because the film used the word 'Bombay'.

MNS workers protested outside theatres in Maharashtra, demanding that 'Bombay' be renamed 'Mumbai' in the film. No violence has been reported.

Karan Johar met up with MNS chief Raj Thackeray in the afternoon, and has apologised for the mistake. He has agreed to bring back the film reels and re-dub Bombay to Mumbai.

Thackeray asked for an apology on each of the 700 frames in the film. This will apparently require two or three days time. Thackeray also said that such a mistake must never be repeated again.

This is not the first time that MNS has raised an alarm over a film. The party had threatened to remove Amitabh Bachchan-starrer The Last Lear from theatres when Jaya Bachchan had made some uncalled for remarks against Maharashtrians during a press conference. MNS workers attacked theatres in Mumbai screening the film. It was only after Amitabh apologised that the film was allowed to be released.

Shiney gets bail, barred from Mumbai

The Bombay High Court has granted bail to Shiney Ahuja in the case of alleged rape of his domestic help but ordered him to stay in Delhi until the trial begins.

Justice A P Deshpande said that the actor would be released on cash bail of Rs 50,000 with a condition that he would stay in Delhi and report to the nearest police station regularly. He will have to provide one or two sureties of amount within a period of three weeks.

The court ruled that Shiney would be permitted to come to Mumbai only during the trial.

The actor was asked to surrender his passport and refrain from offering any inducement to witnesses, directly or indirectly and warned against tampering with evidence.

Shiney was arrested on June 15 after his maid lodged a complaint with Oshivara police station that the actor had raped her at his residence. His wife and child of the actor were not at home when the alleged incident occurred.

Earlier, the actor's bail plea had been rejected twice by the lower court. Being aggrieved, he moved the High Court.

The actor may be released from Arthur Road jail this evening after he pays the surety, his lawyer said.

Police has filed a 109-page chargesheet against Shiney accusing him of raping his domestic help at his residence.

Shiney's lawyer Shirish Gupte and Srikant Shivade argued that evidence indicated a consensual sexual intercourse between the actor and the complainant girl.

'I (Shiney) am not a saint in a sense but not a rapist,' said Gupte.

Shiney's wife Anupam, reacting to High Court order, said, "I'm overwhelmed to hear that Shiney has been granted bail. We've full faith in judicial system."

Shiney has five films in hand -- Migration, Har Pal, Chalo Movie, Accident and Take Two.

'I am not just a pretty face'

Lara Dutta is on a roll.

The actress has back-to-back releases lined up this October. First up, is David Dhawan's comedy Do Knot Disturb where she will be seen romancing three men -- Govinda, Ritesh Deshmukh and Sohail Khan. The film also stars Sushmita Sen.

Later in the month -- October 16 -- her other film, the highly anticpated Blue with Akshay Kumar, Sanjay Dutt, Katrina Kaif and Zayed Khan, is releasing.

Lara talks to Patcy N about her forthcoming films, and her love for comedy.

Do Knot Disturb has a big star cast. What is your role in it?

Every time I get a call from David Dhawan, I get extremely excited because you are sure to be offered a role which every other actress would give an arm and a leg for.

I have worked with him before [in Partner] and am grateful that he is one director who realises that women have the potential to do comedy.

I am getting an opportunity to hold my own with co-stars like Govinda and Ritesh. I am not just a prop or a pretty face. I play Dolly in the film. The promos show Govinda singing 'Dolly Dolly Dolly' in the promos which should make it clear that there is plenty for me to to in this film.

I get angry, but I don't show it: Amitabh Bachchan

Amitabh Bachchan has learnt to live with controversies. But India's biggest star admits they sometimes get under his skin -- and when that happens he says he takes care not to show his irritation, particularly before the media.

"For celebrities, when you create a controversy, it happens and even when you don't create one, it still happens. Like if I sneeze, it can cause a controversy; if I don't, then also it causes one," Bachchan told us in an exclusive interview.

"We (celebrities) have to live with that (controversies). I have accepted that controversies are bound to happen with me. I do get angry about it at times but we don't let it show - not in front of the media at least," added the 66-year-old thespian who will soon be seen as host of the third season of the reality show 'Bigg Boss' that features a bunch of celebrities locked into a house.

The subject of many controversies, big and small, Bachchan seems to often vent his ire in his blog, which he labels a "revelation".

The blog has become almost an obsession, says the star candidly.

"It (my blog) has been a great revelation. It's a medium where I can talk to myself. It has now become almost like an obsession and it's not so much because I want to express myself but the fact that I better express myself now there are hundreds of people who wait to read what I'm going to do, what I am thinking and then they comment on it," he said.

He added that he would be going back to update his blog as soon as the interviews with the media were over.

Bachchan, whose forthcoming projects include Sujoy Ghosh's 'Aladin', R. Balakrishna's eagerly-awaited role-reversal drama 'Paa' and Leena Yadav's 'Teen Patti', was in the capital for the launch of 'Bigg Boss' that goes on the air Sunday

Superstars fete Kamal Haasan

Some of the biggest names in south Indian cinema, led by Rajnikanth, Venkatesh, Mohanlal and Mammootty, came together to celebrate Kamal Haasan's 50 years in cinema.

The stars who attented the function included Radhika, Gautami, Revathi, Rohini, Jaya Chitra, Lissy, Tabu, Urvasi, Meena, Shobhana, Sameera Reddy, Sandhya, Nisha Kothari, Mumtaz, Manorama, K Balachander, Ilaiyaraja, Prabhu, Arjun, Prasanna, Sibiraj, Jayaram, Parthiban, KS Ravikumar, Shankar, Prakashraj, Ramesh Aravind, Prabhu Deva, Allu Arjun, Ganesh Venkatram, Simbu, Jeeva, Sibiraj, Abbas, Ajmal, Narain, Karthi, Sakthi, Balu Mahendra, Santhanabharathy, Crazy Mohan, Madan, Yugi Sethu, Mysskin, Lingusamy, Cheran, Gowtham Menon, AR Murgadoss and Dharani.

Kamal had donned the grease paint for the first time for 'Kalathoor Kannamma' in 1960 at the age of six.

S. P. Balasubramaniam and Hariharan presented 'Kamal unplugged', a medley of songs from Kamal films. Kamal's daughter Shruti peformed some of the famous songs sung for Kamal heroines.

Click on for a few snaps from the star-studded event...

There's no K Jo element in 'Wake Up Sid': Karan Johar

Once the script of 'Wake Up Sid' was ready, the star cast finalized and shooting of the film commenced, producer Karan Johar says he completely backed off and let first time director Ayan Mukerji run the entire show.

"There isn't any Karan Johar element that you would see in 'Wake Up Sid'. It doesn't have any gloss, glamour or grandeur that one associates with me. In fact, it doesn't have any pre-requisite that one expects from a Dharma Productions," Karan told us.

Karan, who has directed hits like 'Kuch Kuch Hota Hai' and 'Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham', has produced this Ranbir Kapoor-Konkona Sen Sharma- starrer that releases Friday.

For him it is the dawn of a new era for Dharma Productions as newer filmmakers are joining the banner, aspiring to make some pathbreaking yet commercial cinema.

"Yes, now is the time for new age Dharma Productions to start making a mark. It's a new reality that we are facing and new energy we are experiencing. This is what is keeping me so excited because I have a number of movies in production, all of which are being made by different filmmakers."

After Mukerji, another debutant director Rensil D'Souza will release his 'Kurbaan' in November. Tarun Mansukhani is getting animation flick 'Koochie Koochie Hota Hai' in place while working on 'Dostana 2'.

First timer Siddharth Malhotra has finished ground work on the Hindi remake of 'Stepmom', while debutant Punit Malhotra's 'I Hate Love Stories' is also in the pipeline.

His Dharma Productions has roped in another newcomer, Karan Malhotra, to direct the 'Agneepath' remake, while Karan's own 'My Name Is Khan' is scheduled for an early 2010 release.

"With so many films in different stages of production, it would be unfair on my part to be involved in each and every aspect of filmmaking. When I get someone to direct a film, I better allow him to take over the reins while being there for support only if required.

"This was the guiding principle that I applied for 'Wake Up Sid' too. I backed off completely once it came on floors. In fact, I didn't even get into the music or the look of the film; I wanted Ayan to visualize it all and take decisions. I didn't want to clutter his way of thinking by giving any unnecessary advice," said Karan.

He is glad with his decision to rope in Mukerji, who is Kajol's cousin, for 'Wake Up Sid'.

"The only person who could have done 'Wake Up Sid' was Ayan. It was his idea and he is the one who could do complete justice to it since he is younger and in the same zone as Sid, the protagonist. There was no way I could have come into his way and bring in some kind of fantastical aspect to the plot," Karan said.

"Why should I come in the way of any filmmaker's vision? It's their baby and it should not necessarily look the way I want it. I don't want them to be me. I want my directors to be their own brand," he added.

Tribute to R.D. Burman in 'Main Aurr Mrs. Khanna'

Mumbai, Sep 30 R.D. Burman's music continues to inspire today's filmmakers. While 'Kaminey' had two tracks of the late composing legend, now one of his songs will be heard in the forthcoming movie 'Main Aurr Mrs. Khanna'.

The legend's composition 'Bade achche lagte hain yeh dharti, yeh nadiya, yeh raina aur tum' makes a vital appearance in Sohail Khan's production 'Main Aurr Mrs Khanna'. The song was chosen because Kareena Kapoor's character is named Raina in the film and the word 'raina' is prominent in the song.

The film required a strong nostalgic theme song between Kareena and Sohail to create a sense of intimacy between the couple. And Amit Kumar's song from 'Balika Badhu' was everyone's favourite, it became the chosen one overriding the other popular choice 'Raina beeti jaye' from 'Amar Prem'.

Both 'Balika Badhu' and 'Amar Prem' were made by Shakti Samanta.

'It's a song that we all chose unanimously. It comes on when my character meets Kareena. When we meet, the song plays in the background. Since her character is named Raina, we loved the idea of having the song,' Sohail told IANS.

Interestingly, Sohail's other production 'Kissaan' also revived an old song 'Mere desh ki dharti'. But there's a difference.

Explains Sohail: 'While 'Mere deshi ki dharti' is part of the film's soundtrack, we haven't put 'Bade achche lagte hain' in the album for 'Main Aurr Mrs Khanna'. Though we've bought the rights for the song. Let's just say, we mean it to be a tribute to R.D. Burman and the tradition in Hindi lyrics celebrating raina (night).'

vishal bhardwaj's next film 7 husbands with priyanka

After playing 12 roles of bride-to-be in What's Your Raashee?, actress Priyanka Chopra is finally playing the role of a bride, not to one man but seven different men. The actress is gearing up for yet another multiple role in Vishal Bhardwaj's next titled 7 Husbands.

Buzz up!A source reveals, "Vishal was very impressed with Priyanka while working with her in the movie Kaminey. He always referred to her as a dedicated and devoted actress. While scripting for 7 Husbands, without any second thought, he made up his mind to cast the actress in the movie. Vishal also had seen the rushes and promos of What's Your Raashee? with her 12 different avatars and thought she carried it off really well and could do justice to her film."

The source continues, "In 7 Husbands, Priyanka will again be seen in seven different avatars of wives to seven different men. She will have different get ups for each wife. The seven different actors for the role of husbands haven't been finalized as yet. They are in look out for serious actors who might not be A-listers."

"The movie is still in the scripting process. The movie will go on floors next year after Priyanka's dates are available and the seven actors are finalized," adds the source.

Priyanka Chopra remained unavailable for the comment.

Bipasha Basu's boobs groped at Durga Puja fest

Bollywood actress Bipasha Basu might not have dreamed in her wildest dreams that her much-awaited Durga Puja celebration would turn into a nightmare. It's reported that she was sexually abused by a sick-minded stranger at this year's Durga Puja celebration.

Buzz up!Sources said that Bipasha attended The North Bombay Sarvojonin Durga Puja at Santacruz with her boyfriend John Abraham. But sadly, a stranger spoiled her evening by groping her breasts. She was near the stage when the incident took place. The pervert ran away, taking advantage of the crowd.

The ugly incident left Bipasha furious and even wanted to lodge a police complaint. However, John whisked her away from the venue.

Riya Sen's living out of a suitcase!

Riya Sen is one actress who's been notching up a lot of air miles! Well, the sexy actress has been busy shooting and walking the ramp all over the country!

The petite lady was spotted in Shimla, Manali, Pune and her own hometown Kolkata. Whether it's shooting for a film or walking the ramp, the beautiful bong beauty is just everywhere!

CHECK OUT: Dehydrated Riya Sen air dashes

But we have been missing her from the social circuit. So we ask her is it only work that's been keeping Riya busy? ''Well, it's just been all work and no play and I'm quite content with that.'' On prodding further about any secret boyfriend hidden in the wings, she laughs and says with a mischievous smile, ''If someone comes along, its great, but right now I'm blissfully single. My work is leaving me with little time for anything else!''

Well, we can sure hear all the single men heave a sigh of relief on that!

3 Ladies who shaped Govinda!

Govinda has got into shape and how? Everyone who's meeting the actor off late wants to know the secret of his weight loss.

Well Govinda has not one, not two but three ladies to thank for his weight loss. The first two being his co stars from the upcoming release DO KNOT DISTURB - Sushmita Sen and Lara Dutta.

CHECK OUT: GOVINDA Interview

Govinda admits, ''When I started shooting for DO KNOT DISTURB, I had just left politics and weighed 108 kgs at that time. When I saw Sush and Lara on the sets and how fit they are, I was very inspired to shed some weight. So that was the starting point for me, after which my wife Sunita took over and now she doesn't even let me eat,'' he laughs.

"I have lost 25 kgs already and now I want to lose some more weight and then maintain it as well," Govinda concludes

Aamir wants to know 'pal' Salman's Wanted collections

It is learnt that Aamir Khan is keeping a close tab on his buddy Salman Khan’s film Wanted’s box office collections.

The film has opened to bumper collections all over India in the single screens and the multiplexes collections, if not as big, has been rising steadily as well. Aamir’s Ghajini was the last Bollywood film to break big in the single screens and amass huge collections.

The trade has been claiming Wanted has over taken Ghajini at many centers and this has intrigued the perfectionist Aamir more. Though most of the critics have lashed the film out, Wanted has been conquering the box office even in its second week.

Incidentally, Aamir was invited personally by Salman to have a dekko of his Wanted, days before its release.

However, with Aamir being busy with his 3 Idiots it was not possible for him. But he seems to have finally watched the film on last weekend and loved Salman’s act in it.

Deepika gifts Ranbir a laptop for birthday present, wow

Deepika Padukone proved to be the perfect girlfriend when she threw a surprise party for Ranbir. He is also the proud owner of a brand new laptop. We don’t know if money can buy love, but it sure can make a boyfriend happy! Deepika organised the party to bring in his birthday on Sunday when he came back from Bhopal. Deepika invited few, but very close friends to the surprise dinner.

Our source said, “Deepika took Ranbir to a suburban restaurant on Sunday night on the pretext of having dinner. She had already called some of Ranbir’s very close friends, which included Rohit Dhawan and Ayan Mukherjee, the director of Wake Up Sid. Ranbir, who is normally not a party animal, was pleased to see them and a couple of his old school friends. They had dinner and brought in his birthday. Ranbir was extremely thrilled.”

Deepika’s present of a sleek and high-end laptop was thoughtful as she is aware of Ranbir being net-savvy. Ranbir loved the gift and was seen checking the features immediately. The source added, “On his birthday on Monday, Ranbir also saw the first trial of his film, Wake Up Sid with Deepika and his parents.”

Shahrukh Khan's work wrapped on My Name Is Khan

It all began as a rumor that Shahrukh Khan, Kajol and Karan Johar would be working together again. Then we got word that this dream team was indeed working on a project called My Name is Khan. We learned that it was not your average masala film and that it was set in the after math of 9/11. In December of 2008, the film went to the floor and though we know a bit more about it, the story is still very much under wraps.

Shahrukh said in an interview with TOI that, "My Name Is Khan is the most special film for both Karan Johar and me. And unlike the rumors, it's not about terrorism, or 9/11. It's about a relationship between two people, between an individual and the State, and between an individual and the country. In short, there the three important components: love story, Islam and a mild form of autism, which forms the core of MNIK."

In what is said to be one of his most challenging roles, Shahrukh plays a man with Asperger syndrome, which is a mild form of autism. According to autism.about.com, "People with AS develop language normally, but often have difficulty with social interactions, fine and gross motor coordination, and eye contact. They may be extremely passionate about just one or two topics, with little patience for small talk. They also may struggle to handle normal daily activities, such as organizing time, managing conflict, or even facing the sensory overload presented by malls and grocery stores." In the film, Shahrukh is suspected of being a terrorists after the 9/11 attacks not only because of his disease but also because of his name. Kajol plays his wife in the film.

In an earlier interview with Subhash K Jha, Karan Johar said of SRK's performance, "Time and again I'm blown away by Shahrukh. At times I wonder how can he bring so many variations in his character when he already has so much on his plate. He has done monumental research on his autistic character in the film. I was zapped by how much he knew about the subject. And he brought all the knowledge on the sets without any strain. He had written reams of notes on how he wanted to interpret his character. And for him it was no big deal. I think he's ready to direct a film. He will be outstanding at it. His understanding of human nature and emotions can never be matched by me."

We can now report that after months of long and hard work Shahrukh Khan has finished his shooting schedule for My Name is Khan and the director still has nothing but praise for the actors performance. KJo wrote on the social site Twitter, "Shahrukh just wrapped on MNIK... He has been so amazing through the shoot... He deserves every bit of his legendary status!!"

Bhansali being paid more than Hrithik-Aish for Guzaarish?

Sanjay Leela Bhansali is said to have been paid more money for Guzaarish than the film’s lead pair Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan put together. Shocked? Well if our sources within the film’s production house, UTV is to be believed then it is true! Our sources reveal, “The Saawariya maker has been paid a whopping Rs. 35 crore for Guzaarish. But well its not just for his direction. Bhansali has been associated with the project in the capacity of a director, writer and the music director. Hrithik and Aish have been paid their market price which goes on to add another Rs. 15 crore added to that the rest cost of making has made the complete budget of the film a huge Rs. 80 crore.” A trade pundit quotes, “Sanjay Leela Bhansali may be a filmmaker but he is not less than a big star himself. He has got an exceptional script on hand with Guzaarish and its definately worth every penny that he has been paid for. His last film, Saawariya may have not emerged a big hit but he is damn sure to strike back big with this one.”

Rani Preparing to Tie the Knot

If rumors are to be believed the former queen of Bollywood Rani Mukherjee, is contemplating to settle down with beau Aditya Chopra. Now rumor mongers have been speculating her marriage since a while but only this time around they are sure that the much awaited shaadi is on the cards soon. Rani's comeback movie 'Dil Bole Hadippa!' bombed at the box office giving gossip churners strong reasons that she will soon head to walk the aisle. As if all that was not enough, some insiders claim that Rani performed some kind of special puja this year at the Santacruz Durga Puja Pandal, which is being run by her family since years. What's new you might wonder? She does that every year, yes , she does, but this year Rani performed some rituals and puja done by women gearing up to get married soon. All we can do is wait and watch if there is any truth to this story or even this one seems to be just one of the speculations.

Vidya Balan to endorse GoodKnight cream

Munnabhai's girl Vidya Balan has just inked a brand endorsement deal with Godrej Sara Lee's GoodKnight Naturals', a moisturizing mosquito repellent cream.

Vidya Balan, the new face for GoodKnight Naturals, says, "When it comes to applying products on my skin, I am very cautious. Goodknight Naturals mosquito repellent cream has unbelievable properties which make my skin feel safe whilst protecting me from mosquitoes during outdoor shoots, and the best part is that it is non-sticky. I was very excited when Godrej, an age old name and a trusted brand approached me to be a part of this campaign in which this revolutionary product will help fight the mosquito menace."

The new campaign focuses on communicating the effectiveness of a moisturizer based mosquito repellent cream with the goodness of natural herbs like tulsi and lavender that help fight mosquitoes naturally while keeping the skin nourished and protected with milk. The ad campaign and concept developed by JWT, communicates the powerful combination of safety from mosquitoes and protection of the skin as never before, while highlighting the product offering through their catchy line... 'Machharon ki haar, skin se pyaar!'

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Tarun Arora, VP Sales & Marketing, Godrej Sara Lee said, "GoodKnight has always offered products which are based on strong consumer insights. The biggest challenge was to overcome the existing mental barriers of people being precarious about using mosquito repellent creams as they are associated with being sticky and harsh on the skin. The new ad positions the product in a way that cues in safety and credibility in a reassuring manner".

With such a power packed campaign and star power of Vidya Balan, GoodKnight brand will surely strengthen its supremacy in the market.

Big B writes his own script for BB3

The one and only Big B, Amitabh Bachchan is not only a host of Bigg Boss 3, but is also writing script for his show.

In a recent interaction during the press conference of BB3, himself wrote his script for his presentation which could see the humour of his father Harivanshrai Bachchan. Amused?

A little birdie chirps, “During the press conference of BB3, Big B was taking lot of time to come in front of media, the actual reason for his disappearance was that he was busy rehearsing with the script which he has written for the presentation,”

“The script goes really philosophical which suits the zest of the show, ‘Chehra ek naqab, andar kuch, bahar kuch aur, iss show ke dwara sawalon ke jawab dhonndta hai- Bigg Boss’, were some of the lines which Amitabh uttered,” source added.

It was really appreciating Big B for his script, but still the actor has time to write his own script which is obviously for his perfection, thus he is a Big B, isn’t it?