I’d love to see Sonam or Deepika wear my saris: Lara Dutta

After modeling and acting, designing is Lara's latest venture.

Lara told TOI, "I was into fashion since my modelling days and thus I've always been more on the creative bent than business side of things. I've actually sat with karigars to present a collection of saris that are high on bling, zari (festive) yet affordable and classy and I'm not competing in any designer's space."

Most designers have their own muses and Lara has her favourites too. "I'd love to see Sonam Kapoor or Deepika Padukone wear my saris," she admits.

About her break from acting, Lara explains, "You go through a phase in your life. I wanted a family, a child and watching my little one grow. I didn't want to be torn between career and family. I didn't miss acting in films as I'm very happy to be a hands-on mother. Saira (her daughter) is 18 months now. She goes to a playschool and now that I have some time, I want to do work that's different from what I have done before."

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SRK refuses to speak in Marathi at Dahi Handi event

King Khan Shah Rukh who is currently basking in the glory of his successful film Chennai Express was recently invited at a Dahi Handi celebration organised by MNS.

From dancing on his recent chart buster lungi dance to mouthing dialogues from his hit films Devdas, Don and Jab Tak Hain Jaan, SRK left no stone unturned in entertaining the audiences. However, when the crowd requested the Bollywood superstar to speak in Marathi, the actor chose to skip it and handed over the mike to MNS leader, Ram Kadam.

According to Tellychakkar, after a 15-minute long speech, the crowd unanimously asked the superstar to talk in Marathi. Finding himself cornered, SRK handed over the mike to Ram Kadam and asked him to play translator and translate every Hindi word of his in Marathi.

Thankfully for him, Ram Kadam turned his saving grace by making the actor say 'Jai Maharastra' and translated his 15 minute speech on respecting woman in Marathi although with a few hiccups.

If this was not enough, Shah Rukh went ahead to admit that the only Marathi sentence he knew to speak was "Pudhe Gatirodhak Aahe" (Speed-breakers ahead).

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Katrina Kaif finally talks about bikini pictures...

Katrina Kaif's bikini pictures holidaying with alleged boyfriend Ranbir Kapoor created quite a stir a while back.

Katrina was perturbed by the media's intervention and openly wrote a letter to the media stating her displeasure and requesting privacy.

In an interview with Rajeev Masand, Kats opened up about the Spain episode and reportedly said in the interview that she understood that a celebrity's life was under public gaze however, she requested on having some private space.

She further added that she's been supportive towards the media when it comes to red carpet events, press conferences and interviews, but she has her own opinion, whether the paparazzi agrees or not.

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Is Veena Mallik dating a scammer?

Veena Mallik, who is known for her controversial relationships, is may be in for another one. The item-girl's latest billionaire boyfriend seems to be a well known offender with a string of cases against him in Norway.

It was recently reported that Veena is currently dating Norway based businessman Shaikh Umar Farukh Zahoor. There was even an intimate photograph of the two and Umar was described as a Norway billionaire. However, according to Umar's Wikipedia page, the businessman has a number of cases against him and has been involved in a string of cases of embezzlement and fraud. There are even news reports that claim that Umar was involved in kidnapping his daughters by his ex-wife, Pakistani model Sofia Mirza.

Veena however claims that she isn't dating Umar and that they are family friends. "I am not dating anyone at all. The snap circulating in the media paints a wrong picture," Veena even denied having any information about Umar's alleged dealings. "As far as the relationship is concerned, we are family friends and I was out for dinner with a bunch of other friends in Dubai where this picture was taken, and I want to make it clear that I am single."

By - Reza Noorani

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'Satyagraha' mints Rs.11.21 crore on opening day

Prakash Jha's socio-political thriller "Satyagraha" managed to gross Rs.11.21 crore on its opening day. It is said to be the highest ever opening for the filmmaker.

The movie, which features a stellar cast of Amitabh Bachchan, Ajay Devgn, Kareena Kapoor, Arjun Rampal, Manoj Bajpayee and Amrita Rao, released Friday. Made at a reported budget of Rs.50 crore, the movie is said to be getting a mixed response from critics and viewers.

However, officials at UTV Motion Pictures, are hoping for a good weekend collection.

"The film has taken a good start at the box office. It is being well-received by viewers all across age groups. As word spreads which is positive - we expect significant growth over the weekend," Gaurav Verma, director, India Theatrical Distribution, Studios, Disney UTV, said in a statement.

" Satyagraha" reflects the uprising of the middle-class against a corrupt and unjust system.

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I don't have right bikini body: Parineeti Chopra

Bollywood actresses are readily flaunting a bikini on the big screen, but curvaceous actress Parineeti Chopra says she is overweight to flaunt the two-piece garment.

Asked if she will be okay wearing a bikini for a film, she said: "If I have a hot body, then why not? But right now I don't have the right body. I am still overweight, so there's no way I can wear a bikini."

As such, the vivacious actress doesn't have any limitations or restrictions as an artist.

"I don't want to restrict myself. I don't know how long will I act, or may be the audience will get bored of me and then I will not be acting... so (as long as I am in showbiz), I don't want to restrict myself," she said.

Parineeti admits that most actresses justify bold scenes by saying "it's the demand of the script". But she says it is actually so.

"In ' Shuddh Desi Romance', Sushant (Singh Rajput) has to be physically close with (characters played by) Vaani Kapoor and me for the conflict to happen. If a director says that let's put some kissing scenes for publicity, I will never do that. It's ridiculus," she added.

Busy with the promotions of "Shuddh Desi Romance", which releases Sep 6, Parineeti gaurantees that the movie is "entertaining".

The film is directed by Maneesh Sharma.

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Katrina Kaif changes her ways for Ranbir Kapoor

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No UK shoot for Salman's 'Kick' thanks to visa issues

The Glasgow schedule of 'Kick' had an untimely demise thanks to Salman Khan's visa troubles. Now the film will finally resume shooting in Mumbai from mid-October.

A source close to the development told TOI, "There is no certainty about the London schedule now. And it is not clear if the portions will be shot in another foreign location. Those decisions are yet to be taken. Right now, we start with the Mumbai schedule which was anyway going to kick off in October."

Nadiadwala had flown to Glasgow in the last week of July with the cast and crew to shoot the first schedule of the film but Salman was stuck in Mumbai thanks to visa troubles and a looming court date in the hit-and-run case.

Nadiadwala waited in Glasgow for nearly three weeks and then flew back to Mumbai for Eid celebrations, but he never went back. And with the rupee continuing its downward fall, a long schedule at a foreign location is sure to pinch the producer hard.

Added the source, "Whatever scenes were shot in Glasgow should be retained. We didn't shoot too much there. Hiccups and delays are a part of movie making.We have taken it in our stride."

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Shoojit Sircar plans to shoot with Big B in Kolkata

Madras Cafe maker wants to shoot with the superstar in Kolkata from early next year

His Madras Cafe might be the talk of the town, but director ShoojitSircar is already planning his next — with AmitabhBachchan. With the superstar in mind, Shoojit has already started writing the script, which sets the narrative largely in Kolkata. If things go according to plans, this will be Big B's first shoot in the city after RituparnoGhosh's The Last Lear in 2007.

Shoojit, whose Shoebite with Big B is still stuck in the cans, is gung-ho about the new film. "It's a brand new script, which is currently being written. I'm leaving with him to shoot a Gujarat tourism ad campaign in mid-September. Hopefully, the film — a drama — will be finalized around that time. Forty per cent of it will be shot in Kolkata and Mr Bachchan knows about it. If all goes well, we'll start shooting early next year," says the director.

Between Big B and Shoojit, it has also been a mutual admiration club. After the release of Vicky Donor, the senior actor had sent him a bouquet saying, 'I loved, laughed and cried. Congratulations.' The director had also planned a film earlier with Amitabh and JayaBachchan in mind.

Big B, on his part, shares an old association with Kolkata. He left his Rs 500 job in the city to pursue big dreams in Mumbai in the late '60s. But Kolkata, for him, has always held a sense of deja vu. No wonder, he wanted to catch up with old pals and gorge on phuchkas after returning to shoot for The Last Lear.

Though the cast is not finalized yet, Shoojit wants to rope in MoushumiChatterjee for an important role. "I want to work with Moushumidi in this film," he tells us.

Though it's not known if the actress would be cast opposite Big B, if she does give her nod, it would bring back the pair after BasuChatterjee's Manzil in 1979. Shoojit is not ready to divulge more at the moment, but sources say he has already sought police permission for the shoot in January.

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Send that ‘stick’ for forensic test, demands Om Puri

The official version says that Om Puri is 'absconding' after estranged wife Nandita filed a police complaint accusing him of domestic violence. But TOI tracked down the actor to quiz him about his headline grabbing personal life. Excerpts from the interview.

Your estranged wife Nandita has accused you of physical violence...
She has gone to town saying that I hit her with a stick. Pray, who keeps sticks at home? There is a bamboo cane at home, a decorative item purchased by Nandita. I am ready to send that for forensic tests. She complained to the cops at 4.30 pm claiming that I had beaten her up at 9.30 am. What made her wait for seven hours?

Are you seeking anticipatory bail?
Yes. What else can I do? Our legal system is soft on women in such cases. But I have nothing to fear. I have been in the film industry for 35 years and everyone including the spot-boys will vouch for my character. Six weeks ago, Nandita filed a criminal case against me and my ex-wife Seema Kapoor accusing us of trying to kidnap our son Ishaan. The very next day she backtracked saying she 'suspects' that we will kidnap him. That just explains her state of mind.

What transpired on August 22?
We simply had an argument. She said I had to shell out Rs 10,000 to ten girls who had tied a rakhi to my son, Ishaan. I handed over Rs 10,000. Then she said that our maid had also tied a rakhi and she had given her a mobile phone worth Rs 3,000 and she demanded that I pay for that too. I put my foot down. The next thing I knew I was accused of domestic violence. I never thought our marriage will come to such a sorry pass.

What went wrong in the marriage?
We've not been getting along for the past 15 years. We are two very different people. While my roots are absolutely rural, her tastes are very elitist. Yes, I smoke a few cigarettes and have an occasional drink. But that's it. I don't spend on expensive brands. I don't need foreign holidays. She has taken 35 holidays abroad in 15 years. She dropped in on every foreign shoot and I had to pay through my nose every time.

Nandita says you've stopped paying for household expenses. Is that true?
Rubbish! I am paying for everything in her and Ishaan's life and I am not complaining. Be it electricity bills, telephone bills, chaffeur or servants. But Nandita does not know how to control her expenses. It was her idea to sign a MOU, then I gave her joint ownership of three flats and transferred two-thirds of the contents of my bank account to her and Ishaan, but she still wants more. She refuses to sign divorce papers because she doesn't want to give away a single penny. Moreover, she always wants to be known as Mrs Om Puri.

How much has this affected Ishaan?
I try my best to keep him out of this. But he is totally under Nandita's influence. Yesterday I tried to reach him on the domestic help's phone, but I overheard him saying, 'Tell him I have a sore throat'. Now I am going to request the Court to provide me access to him on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.

You were recently on a holiday with Nandita and Ishan. Pictures suggested everything was fine...
I wish it was true. I wanted to enjoy a holiday with my son but Nandita tagged along.

How has Nandita behaved during this conflict?
She is very aggressive and uses abusive language against me. She has grabbed my collar on more than one occasion. I try to remain calm and just walk out of the house. But she stands by the door blocking my way and if I try to make my way past her, she says that I am attacking her. She went to Seema's building and screamed expletives.

Would you like to stay with Seema after the divorce?
I can go and live with anybody, but first let me get out of this mess.

That doesn't answer my question.
Yes. I would like to live with Seema, I like her. But if that happens, it would happen only when I have legally parted ways with Nandita.

Nandita says you are in an adulterous relationship with Seema. Is there truth in the allegation?
At the age of 64? I can't write properly, my signature has changed because my hands shake. How will I indulge in adultery? And let me tell you Nandita is responsible for my ill health too. We were in Punjab, when I suffered a neuro problem. The doctors told her to fly me back to Mumbai/Delhi and get a spine surgery done but she ignored the doctors and did not inform me too. Was her holiday more important than my health? I got the surgery done when a doctor in Mumbai pressed the panic button but it was too late.

Have you lost out on work because of problems at home?
Workwise, I won't blame Nandita. Perhaps age has caught up with me. Also stars like Amitabh and Rishi have started doing character roles. But I did a nice film Trafficker in Bangkok recently. And I am doing a film with Spielberg.

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Sana Saeed faces opposition at home

A career high at the age of 8 and a long struggle thereon; in a case illustrative of the child stars teeming the industry, Sana Saeed is still remembered as the cherubic daughter of Shah Rukh Khan in the monster hit 'Kuch Kuch Hota Hai'.

She has since made an adult comeback with the Karan Johar flick Student of the Year and participated in a popular dance reality TV show but there is a twist in the story.

Whispers in the industry suggest a rift between the young actress and her parents and when TOI contacted the actress she opened up to us about her dilemma at her Mahim apartment on Monday.

Cooing over her six-month old niece Niz, Sanaa is a bundle of energy. With her petite figure clad in body-con trousers and a mass of wavy highlighted hair, she looks cut for the industry which prizes youthful good looks over everything.

The city of Mumbai teems with aspirants like her, many of them having travelled from places afar to carve out their place in the sun. And like a lot of them, even a former child star can't stop her parents from raining on her parade.

In this case, while one parent fanned Sana's ambition, her father a poet, was deadset against his daughter taking up acting as a profession.

So is she being pressurised to quit showbiz? "My mother was the one who introduced me to this world and she has always been there for me. But she was not OK with me wearing a bikini in SOTY. My father has never been supportive of my decision to be an actress. But I don't expect them to understand, my parents are from a generation where none of their peers ever wore a skirt, let alone a bikini," says the 24-year-old.

Sana made her film debut with a small part in Student Of The Year, playing Tania, a sexed up teenage vixen out to poach a rich boyfriend. It was a calculated risk on her part, after all a bit part in a KJo film is still a big deal.But the move had some rather unexpected effects: a family feud.

So what is her parents grouse with her decision to make a living in tinseltown? "They are worried about 'exposure' of the wrong kind. But the decision is up to me, no one can force you to do anything in this industry. And which profession does not have those pitfalls, but my parents believe in the extremely negative public perception of Bollywood," says Sana.

The actress grew up in a middle class Muslim household,a house on JJ Road and two sisters who have both chosen the conventional life path, steady job, marriage, babies. But Sanaa struck out from a young age.

From the age of four, her chubby visage was a constant presence on TV screens selling everything from shampoos to chocolates.

Her mother was always by her side, playing manager, minder and parent. But then Sana grew up and decided to wear a bikini for her first film role and all hell broke loose.That was the beginning of a conflict which continues till date.

But Sanaa is perky as ever even as she speaks about the lows of her life. One was shared by millions in the city, the recent Mahalakshmi gang rape case.

"When the news of the rape broke, my father called me.He was so depressed, I had to rush home to comfort him. I keep odd hours, I am on the road all the time, the entertainment industry does not have a good reputation. So part of the resistance comes from worry and the incident was a major blow," said the actress.

And much like the city, Sana refuses to stop dreaming.

By - Kripa Krishnan

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Hollywood makes Mother Teresa biopic with Indian cast?

A biopic on Kolkata's own Mother Teresa is to hit the international screens on March 5, 2014. Mahabanoo Mody Kotwal, who was in the city recently to perform her monologue, Shirley Valentine, shared the news with CT...

Written and directed by William C. Riead, The Letters stars Juliet Stevenson of Bend It Like Beckham fame in the lead role of Mother Teresa. The other iconic names are Max von Sydow who has shared screen presence with the likes of Ingrid Bergman, and Golden Globe award winner RutgerHauer. Another iconic name associated with the film is that of the DOP of the film, Jack Green, who has been Clint Eastwood's longtime cinematographer.

This independently produced feature film based on the real-life letters Mother Teresa wrote to a longtime spiritual director over the years. Apparently Mother Teresa used to slip out of her Cloister to help the poor people against the rules. The film is said to be a labour of love and passion for William who sold his house to make this film. "Working with William Riead and Jack Greene was an unbelievable experience and of course the hugely talented Juliet Stevenson was just such an honor!" shared Mahabanoo, who portrays the role of Mother General, in between shuttling continents. And she gushes about the professional and easy-going nature of the Hollywood directors vis-a-vis the scene at Bollywood where there's so much of secrecy regarding scripts and non-disclosure issues.

Interestingly her son KaizaadKotwal (of Inkaar fame) too has a role in the film. He plays the Archbishop of Calcutta, Archbishop Perrier. Sharing about how he landed the role Kaizaad said, "We auditioned in early 2012 and the shooting was done in Goa. William spoke to us over Skype and we were on!" Among the other prominent names is Kolkata girl TilottamaShome, who recently grabbed eyeballs with her performance in Q's Tasher Desh, who plays the role of Kavita. Sharing details about her role Tilottama said, "I play this woman who is antagonistic toward this strange foreign lady and how a very human, intimate contact leads to a change of heart. For me the experience of working in this film goes beyond the filming. Having been a Kolkata girl I have grown up knowing about Mother Teresa. What really made me think in this movie is how we live in our respective factions and groups, suspicious and antagonistic toward the 'other'. I like doing films that make me think. And the best part of working on Letters was its amazing international and Indian cast. Juliet Stevenson was a gift to watch. "

The film is shot mostly in Goa and at the Vatican. Kolkata apparently missed the bus due to its infamous image of being chaotic and having issues over permits. The outdoor shots of the city were taken and the indoors were replicated in Goa. Here's hoping we get to see the film in Mother Teresa's city, Kolkata.

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Rekha hogs limelight in Rajya Sabha

Bollywood star Rekha attended the proceedings of the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday for first time during the monsoon session.

Draped in a yellow silk saree and carrying a golden handbag, Rekha entered the house during the question hour and was seen talking to fellow members.

The 57-year-old was nominated to Rajya Sabha last April along with cricketer Sachin Tendulkar, who came to house on the first day of monsoon session Aug 5.

Rekha hogged the limelight with camerapersons jostling to click her.

Earlier, the actress had attended the budget session May 7.

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Akshay's 'Boss' trailer to release today

Akshay Kumar's next movie Boss's trailer will be released on 27th August 2013, the teaser has already started making waves online and everyone is going gaga over what they have witnessed in the teaser which was released last week.

Industry insiders have already started calling the movie a sure shot blockbuster, because of the ultimate combination of action, comedy, and the music that the movie promises with the trailer. Also the movie has 2-3 chartbuster songs composed by various music directors and one party song sung by YoYo Honey Singh. It seems a high powered trailer launch is being planned with cast and crew.

While the speculations are on the rise but Viacom18 Motion Pictures the makers of the film are not ready to divulge any more details about the trailer launch event. Boss is scheduled to release on 16th October 2013.

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Will Aamir, Salman sign Andaz Apna Apna sequel?

Rajkumar Santoshi's Andaz Apna Apna (1994) may not have been a hit in its time, but is today considered as one of the cult classics of Bollywood.

Salman and Aamir Khan starred in the original where they were paired opposite Karisma and Raveena Tandon. Cashing on the film's status, director Rajkumar Santoshi has decided to make a sequel to his film, as told to sources.

Both Raveena and Karisma are being retained for the sequel but sources further inform that Rajkumar Santoshi is still in talks with Aamir and Salman and is trying to bring them on board for the film. The sequel will see the story move ahead with the same characters (Amar and Prem) who take on new adventures.

Rajkumar will allegedly hand over the scripts to both Aamir and Salman once it's ready and will leave the decision up to them.

If all goes well, will the Andaz Apna Apna sequel be a hit at the box office this time around?

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Just released: Akshay Kumar’s BOSS trailer

The wait is finally over as Akshay Kumar's next movie BOSS's trailer has been released.

Cine goers get all set for a jet pack joyride this festive season , as Akshay Kumar is all set to entertain you in his all new 'BOSS' avatar.

This season get fit as 'BOSS' bashes up the bad boys in town. Experience a combination of action and comedy, as the 'BOSS' Akshay Kumar makes you jump out of your seats. BOSS is back dropped in the city of power 'Delhi', with injustice and rising fist power in the city.
Industry insiders have already started calling the movie a sure shot blockbuster, because of the ultimate combination of action, comedy, and the music that the movie promises with the trailer.

Also the movie has 2-3 chart buster songs composed by various music directors and one party song sung by YoYo Honey Singh. It seems a high powered trailer launch is being planned with cast and crew.

Directed by Anthony D'souza,the film stars Akshay Kumar, Mithun Chakraborty, Shiv Pandit, Aditi Rao Hydari along with Danny Denzongpa, Ronit Roy, Johny Lever. They haven't left any stone unturned to entertain you.

BOSS is scheduled to release on 16th October 2013.

Watch: Akshay Kumar's BOSS trailer

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OUATIM D controversy; nothing personal says SRK

So much attention has been given to the tussle between the makers of OUATIM Dobaara! and Chennai Express that Shahrukh Khan himself has decided to clear the air.

In an interview with Zoom, the actor has gone on record to say that he has nothing personal with anybody and the day for Chennai Express was shifted by a day because Eid also got shifted. He further says that their film had a booking in advance and they wanted it to run for seven days, post which they would share screen space.

He also clarified the clash between the two films saying that it was nothing personal and it's all about business which should be done with all goodness.

What does Ekta Kapoor have to say to that?

Watch: OUATIM D controversy; nothing personal says SRK
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/videos/celebs/SRK-clears-the-air-about-tiff-with-Ekta-Kapoor/videoshow/22076705.cms

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Orson Welles should touch Rohit Shetty's feet: RGV

Ram Gopal Varma's tongue-in-cheek comments never fail to amuse. His latest target is director Rohit Shetty and his blockbuster hit 'Chennai Express'.

RGV has been posting his feedback on Chennai Express since Aug 23, and claims he has watched the Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone-starrer as many as five times - a good contribution perhaps to the over Rs.200 crore that the movie has minted at the box office since its release Aug 9.

"Congrats to Rohit Shetty for dumping Mughal-e-Azam, Sholay, DDLJ (Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge), 3 Idiots, etc by the tracks and speeding Indian cinema ahead on Chennai Express. Like the proof of the pudding is in eating, the greatness of cinema is in its success and by that yardstick, Chennai Express is the greatest film," Varma posted on Twitter.

A comic action entertainer, the film is about a north Indian boy who falls in love with a south Indian girl, who is the daughter of a don. It was panned by critics, but loved by viewers.

On Aug 24, Varma tweeted: "Just walked out of fifth viewing of Chennai Express and I want to touch Rohit Shetty's feet. Not since sex did I have more fun than Chennai Express. If some of you didn't like Chennai... in first viewing, my advice is to watch it four to five times, not because it's slow poison, but because it's slow moving fast poison.

"Most boring film I saw is Citizen Kane (Orson Welles' first movie) and most entertaining is Chennai Express. (American actor-director) Orson Welles should come back from dead to touch Rohit Shetty's feet."

Citizen Kane, released in 1941, was in the drama genre and it was based on the life of a newspaper publisher, essayed by Welles.

Comparing it with Chennai Express seems odd, doesn't it?

RGV explains: "Comparisons might seem odd because of genre difference, but as common man I felt the same high in excitement in Chennai Express as in what I felt in Titanic and Avatar."

Varma's own filmography comprises films like Rangeela, Satya, Mast, Shool, Sarkar, Phoonk and Department.

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'Horror Story' has horror from the first scene to the last: Bhatt

(Aparna Bajpai, Nandini…)

Vikram Bhatt, who's become synonymous with horror, courtesy his hits in this genre, launched the promo of his upcoming film, 'Horror Story'. Held at Tulip Star, where the movie was shot, the event was aimed to share the experience of thrills and chills with the media.

The filmmaker had groups of seven mediapersons go up to room 3046, on the third floor, which has a connect with the film, to watch the trailer. Also present at the event with Vikram were Karan Kundra, Ravish Desai, Hasan Zaidi, Nishant Malkani, Aparna Bajpai, Radhika Menon, Nandini Vaid and director Ayush Raina.

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Theatre has become a shortcut to films now: Gagan Mishra

Shabina Akhtar, TNN Aug 25, 2013, 12.00AM IST

Gagan Mishra was recently awarded the Yuva Natya Nirdeshak award at the Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards, 2013, in Jodhpur, for his contribution towards promoting theatre among the youth. Elated on receiving the award from the chief minister Ashok Gehlot, Mishra admitted that he owed a lot to the once acclaimed Jaipur theatre. "Jaipur used to be an acclaimed centre for theatre. Today, it pains me to see that platform stagnating," he says.

However, Mishra adds, "Thanks to the move of clubbing dramatics with school curriculum, theatre in the city will get a shot in the arm in the years to come." Mishra himself has initiated a series of theatre activities that aims at introducing dramatics in schools not only in Rajasthan, but also in Chandigarh, Ludhiana and Delhi.

Theatre a shortcut to films Mishra, who not only conducts theatre classes across schools but also organizes several summer and winter camps for adolescents and kids, feels that parents no longer harbour inhibition for such workshops. "Today, parents want their kids to do theatre. And that's quite encouraging. But many a time they do so with the intention of grooming their kids for TV reality shows or for personality development," he says. According to him, many use theatre as a shortcut to the Hindi film industry. "Jaipur theatre has given many stars to both the television and film industry, and perhaps has kindled the hope of theatre artistes of making it big in the film industry. Such a mindset is not healthy. This in the long run neither helps the artiste nor theatre," he adds.

Jaipur theatre needs better, original scripts Jaipur theatre might be ailing but it has its own charm and audience. If original plays, better scripts and direction are introduced, then the industry will grow, feels Mishra. "Theatre is an integral part of our culture, and if we market our plays well, I am sure that Jaipur theatre will mature, both in terms of quality and content," he says.

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Parineeti denies any competition with Priyanka

PTI Aug 25, 2013, 11.53AM IST

(Parineeti and Priyanka…)

Parineeti Chopra insists she has been getting work on her own despite having a successful and top line actress Priyanka Chopra as her cousin.

Parineeti joined Yash Raj Films as a public relations consultant and later went on to sign a three-film deal with the company as an actress.

"I got my first film because of who I was. And after I started getting awards, people started knowing me. I don't have to sell myself. I think directors come to me if they feel I suit the role," Parineeti told in an interview.

"She (Priyanka) being my sister helps me in a way but I got work on my own. As we are not from filmi family so I know who to fall back on for ideas and suggestions. Her being my sister and her presence in the industry makes me more confident," she added.

Asked if she takes suggestions from her sister before deciding on her film, she said, "I choose my films on my own. I chose them with Aditya Chopra and Maneesh Sharma's help but when I am ever in doubt I ask her."

But the 24-year-old "Ladies vs Ricky Bahl" star feels there is a flip side as well being Priyanka's cousin as there are constant comparisons between the two.

"Because you don't know us personally so it is a big thing for an outsider. We have grown up together wearing each other's clothes. When comparisons happen we just laugh out, we don't understand why it is happening," she said.

Parineeti will be seen next in YRF's "Shuddh Desi Romance" directed by Maneesh Sharma, with Sushant Singh Rajput and newcomer Vaani Kapoor.

Interestingly, "Shuddh Desi Romance" and Priyanka's "Zanjeer" are releasing on September 6, but Parineeti denies any competition between the Chopra sisters.

Parineeti is equally excited about Priyanka's film and said, "I have seen the promos and I loved it," she added.

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'Chennai Express' finally beats '3 Idiots'

TNN Aug 25, 2013, 12.41PM IST

(A still from the movie More…)

'Chennai Express' box office collections have yet again made it obvious that it's the audience that can make or break a film at the ticket window.

Tweeting the box office collection numbers, well-known film trade analyst Taran Adarsh said, "Rohit Shetty becomes most successful director of Hindi cinema: 3 centuries and 1 double century. Four films that feature in 100 cr+ grossers!"

Shah Rukh Khan's Chennai Express has crossed the Rs. 200 crore mark in a very short period. In fact, it also crossed the 100 crore mark in the shortest time period.

Rohit Shetty's understanding of the perfect ingredients for a typical masala Bollywood film clubbed with the business and marketing acumen of Shah Rukh helped Chennai Express thwart the records of Amir Khan's 3 Idiots, which has been ruling the top grossers charts till date.

At the same time, with this success Rohit Shetty too has emerged as the Bollywood's commercial movie king. Rohit Shetty's four films including Singham, Golmaal 3, Bol Bachchan, have made it to the Rs 100 crore club.

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Amitabh’s call not to stay friends: Amar Singh

Self-exiled, former Samajwadi Party leader Amar Singh, laid low by controversy and ill health, has been fiercely keeping away from the charmed circles for several years now. So naturally, when he suddenly emerged out of the woodwork to throw a party for actor Sridevi on her birthday on August 17, there was a huge turnout of curious guests, whose many queries about the Bachchans and about politics Singh just shrugged off.

But in a telling interview to TOI he spoke about "success, failure, disappointment and treachery", also throwing in some broad hints about old friendships, and where his political options lie.

First things first. How is your health now?
I have had my share of health complications. I underwent a very bad phase in 2011 when I got a kidney transplant done. And I think people don't know this, but part of my intestine was wrongly cut out during one of my hospitalisations. Which is why I have to eat in small quantities. Moreover, I have to take very strong medicines to retain whatever I eat. At one point on a flight to Dubai, I even slipped into a coma when my sugar levels dipped drastically. Doctors said I will never come out of it, but I did. I think even God is not willing to accept me. Even now, I have consistently low sugar levels.

One didn't know about all your health complexities... still, where were you for so long?
I decided to stay away from the limelight. It was a conscious decision. I had a great run from 1996 to 2009. I had many friends. After 2009, the fairweather friends got filtered out. But from the film industry, Sridevi and her husband Boney remained in frequent touch.

One day, she told me that she wanted me to see her comeback film English Vinglish. Initially I didn't think much of the film because comeback films of most senior stars haven't been exciting. But she came to Delhi with the print. Out of sheer respect for her, I saw the film. After the film ended, I was choked with emotion. I then had a small party. When she got the Padmashri, I felt she deserved a big, nice celebration.

Are you going to host more parties, like you often did in the past?
This one was just an emotional outburst. I don't have to do anything to prove myself. I am not an insatiable socialite. I have seen everything - success, failure, disappointment and treachery. Frankly, I am a disillusioned man. But let me add about the recent party that it was a celebration of Sridevi's loyalty and friendship with me, not a celebration of her alone. This woman did not change with time in my rainy days.

You clearly sound very hurt about your friendship with the Bachchans having gone sour....
I don't want to be discussed for my so called friendship with a big person. I don't want to be associated with someone else's reflected glory. Someone from their family used to say that Amar Singh gets a lot of mileage because of his association with us (Bachchans). Amitabh didn't say it; he still has some grace and dignity. If I say anything nasty,it will just spread negativity and that will make me mentally sick. I have learnt a very big lesson in life. Your friends are your friends as long as you serve their need and purpose. It is better to live life with lesser people of lesser stature - be they be a paanwallah from Dadar or a bhelwallah from Chowpatty- but they should love you for what you are and not who you are(position). Anybody's position is so mercurial.

You did a few films, here and there. Any more acting aspirations?
I grew up watching Dev Anand and Shammi Kapoor's movies. I never liked most of Amitabh's movies, except Hrishikesh Mukherji's Alaap. With both Dev and Shammi gone, I don't think I have any desire left to act, except maybe if and when Sridevi and Jaya Prada (his other loyal friend) offer a film to me.

Does Jaya Prada, who is friends with Amitabh, get caught in the crossfire?
Jaya Prada is not a friend of Amitabh's. And listen, it was Amitabh's call not to remain friends with me.

Did you question him on why he took that call?
Emotional bonding is a matter of heart. Nobody asks him why he was not close to Amjad Khan, Mehmood, Shashi Kapoor and Prakash Mehra. If he changes his clothes, style and friends from time to time and remains happy, why should that bother me?

Are you planning to return to active politics?
I am not averse to the idea of coming back. But I have become my own rival. After touching such highs, I cannot stand in a queue and ask for a job. If something comes to me gracefully, why not? And politics is not only about contesting the elections.

If any party offers you a ticket in the 2014 Loksabha polls, would you accept it?
Not from 'any' party. But if that party's ideologies are close to mine, I would definitely contest.

How about going back to SJP?
Never. It is a regional party. They are losing their sheen.

What do you think of the 2014 poll scenario?
Rahul is a well-meaning leader. The loud emergence of Modi will benefit Congress-UPA. The announcement itself of Modi as BJP's PM candidate came with many rumblings - starting with the Advaniji incident (Advani had resigned from all posts in the BJP), the Shatrughan Sinha outburst (Shatru had said he favoured L K Advani over Modi), the Nitish Kumar incident (Nitish moved out of the NDA, protesting Modi's many actions and statements ).

So who do you think will be our next PM? Rahul Gandhi or Narendra Modi?
Indian politics is not as simple and straight as Obama Vs Romney in the US. Out here, it's a very complex scenario which brings results contrary to expectations. But I think that the fear of the Gujarat carnage will result in huge polarisation among the minorities in favour of Congress-UPA. Let me tell you that no government can be formed without the support of Congress. Let me tell you that Congress can never become irrelevant in the scheme of things. And please note how NDA is losing states and Congress is gaining then.

What is your opinion on Narendra Modi?
At this point, I don't think we should give a definite opinion on him. But let me tell you one thing. I had gone to Gujarat when the carnage happened. Shabana Azmi, Raj Babbar and Sitaram Kesri were accompanying me. The Police Commissioner Pandey was not there for hours. We waited. And suddenly I got a call from Modi. He said: 'Why are you here? Your pro-minority stand is well known. You won't be safe here'. He didn't threaten me, but I think that reflects his state of mind. Now he says he is a Hindu Rahtravadh. I think that's disgusting. He should say he is a Bhartiya Rashtravadh.

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Bollywood goes the tapori ishtyle

Taporism finds ground in Bollywood, with many actors playing a pakka tapori with aplomb. In the past, our good ol' tapori Lakhan aka Anil Kapoor wooed his heroines with his tapori moves and accent. Soon other actors such as Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan followed suit. This year, their contemporaries have brought in the tapori ishtyle. TOI brings you the actors who are bringing on that 'jhakas' tadka to their tapori avatar.

Shahid Kapoor in Phata Poster Nikla Hero
Well, this poster is definitely bringing out the tapori in Shahid. The song Agal Bagal Mein, shows Shahid display his taporism to the T. With everything loud and bright, Shahid definitely brings masti, dhamaal and whistles to your screens.

Ranbir Kapoor in Besharam
From playing the suave and 'Mr Free Bird' in Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani to playing a hearing and speech impaired lad in Barfi, Ranbir is all set to go Besharam for his next film. His tapori avatar is flashy, unlike the unkempt ones portrayed in the past. Ranbir makes taporism look stylish and full on paisa vasool. In the past, he did don the look for an item song in the film Chillar Party. His tapori moves and expressions are a perfect 10 on our tapori meter.

Imran Khan in Once Upon Ay Time in Mumbai Dobaara
In an interview, Imran said a dialogue from the film, 'Aslam ko samajhne ke liye dimaag nahin dil lagta hai'. Set in the 80s, the film shows Imran portraying a suave tapori. With tapori's known to be bade dilwalas, Aslam's character in this film is that of a romantic tapori.

Neil Nitin Mukesh in Shorcut Romeo
While there are romantic and dangerous taporis there are few who fall under the bracket of kaminey taporis, just like Neil's character in the film. While the role didn't do much for Neil's career graph, we liked the way he portrayed the shades of grey in this one. In the past, Neil also played a tapori in Lafangey Parindey.

Tapori language made famous by B-Town actors
Anil Kapoor: Jhakkas (Yudh)
Aamir Khan: Aati kya Khandala (Ghulam)
Salman Khan: Haata sawan ki ghata (Hello Brother)
Shah Rukh Khan: Apun Bola (Josh)
Akshay Kumar: Don't Angry Me (Rowdy Rathore)

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B-Town gets Modi-fied

He must be used to being in the news all the time. But soon, Gujarat chief minister Narendra Modi will see his life story being told on the big screen. Modi, with his increasing popularity amongst the youth and the ability to make impressive speeches, seems to have made B-Town realize the potential of a film on him.

Not one, but two big-budget B-Town flicks have already been announced on this powerful politician and one of them, produced by NRI filmmaker Mitesh Patel, is eyeing a release as early as January 2014 (noted playwright Mihir Bhuta and writer Kishore Makwana are putting this reportedly `50 crore film together)! The other film will be produced by veteran actor Paresh Rawal, who hails from Visnagar, the twin town of Vadnagar where Modi was born.

So what's making filmmakers queue up to make a film on Modi, apart from the obvious aim of cashing in on his popularity ahead of the 2014 Lok Sabha polls? Says Mitesh Patel, who hails from Vadodara, "I find his journey (from working in his father's tea stall to becoming the CM) truly inspiring. It's the perfect time to make a film on Modi's life because there is so much of positive buzz around him. Recently, I met him and he was "okay" with the idea. Once we have the final script ready, we will show it to him because we don't want to upset anyone.

However, it's not as if the idea came to me overnight. I thought of it two years back when I came to Gujarat and found that a lot of positive developments had taken place. And most of the people I met talked very highly about Modi. However, my film isn't a documentary, it will have its share of fictional, commercial elements too."
Talking about logistics and casting, Patel says, "The biggest challenge for me right now is to finish the film on time. We will start shooting in October or November, and we are aiming at a January release. I am meeting Paresh Rawal again in Mumbai next week and it will be lovely if we can finalize him to play the lead. He is just the perfect actor for the role."

Paresh Rawal, an ardent admirer of Modi on the other hand has said on record that making a biopic on the Gujarat CM is one of his "dream projects" and will be a hardcore, big-budget commercial film. "It will be a biopic of Modi, the man who may become our prime minister. The details are being worked out but this project is high on my priority list. I am keen to do the role of Narendra Modi in any film that comes my way. If Mitesh's biopic on Modi takes off before mine, then I am keen. My production house is also in the process of finalising a biopic on Modi in which I will play the lead role," Rawal said.

Are the makers nervous about the pressure of expectations? "I am just trying to make a good film. After that, let the audience decide." says Patel.

Well, let the show begin!

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Neetu’s petition to make martial arts compulsory for girls

In the wake of the recent gangrape of a 22-year-old photojournalist in Mumbai, actress Neetu Chandra has filed an online petition asking the Government of India to make martial arts training compulsory for girls from classes 4 to 12.

Neetu is a 4th Dan black belt in Taekwondo and has represented India at the Asian level twice. The actress, who is supported by an NGO in this cause, asserts that martial arts training will "give our girls self-confidence, a sense of security and the willpower to fight back instead of surrendering meekly when shown a knife or a gun."

The petition states, "It might not train them to use a gun or carry a knife, but it will certainly give them the voice to scream, teeth to bite and limbs to pack a punch on the face of her tormentor, and bounce back when he is trying to force himself on her."

She adds, "It's time we unite to affect a change in people's mindset and get the authorities to act seriously."

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'Horror Story' has horror from the first scene to the last: Bhatt

Vikram Bhatt, who's become synonymous with horror, courtesy his hits in this genre, launched the promo of his upcoming film, 'Horror Story'. Held at Tulip Star, where the movie was shot, the event was aimed to share the experience of thrills and chills with the media.

The filmmaker had groups of seven mediapersons go up to room 3046, on the third floor, which has a connect with the film, to watch the trailer. Also present at the event with Vikram were Karan Kundra, Ravish Desai, Hasan Zaidi, Nishant Malkani, Aparna Bajpai, Radhika Menon, Nandini Vaid and director Ayush Raina.

About the film, the producer Vikram said, "The film is relentlessly horror, a spine chiller in the truest sense... I assure you that it's horror from the first scene to the last and has been shot in an international format, the highlight of the film is that there is no song and no frills. We have introduced a lot of new talent through this film and they have done a fabulous job. The film is all set to give the audiences an edge-of-the-seat experience."

Horror Story, by ASA Production and Enterprises Pvt Ltd, releases on September 13.

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Theatre has become a shortcut to films now: Gagan Mishra

Gagan Mishra was recently awarded the Yuva Natya Nirdeshak award at the Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards, 2013, in Jodhpur, for his contribution towards promoting theatre among the youth. Elated on receiving the award from the chief minister Ashok Gehlot, Mishra admitted that he owed a lot to the once acclaimed Jaipur theatre. "Jaipur used to be an acclaimed centre for theatre. Today, it pains me to see that platform stagnating," he says.

However, Mishra adds, "Thanks to the move of clubbing dramatics with school curriculum, theatre in the city will get a shot in the arm in the years to come." Mishra himself has initiated a series of theatre activities that aims at introducing dramatics in schools not only in Rajasthan, but also in Chandigarh, Ludhiana and Delhi.

Theatre a shortcut to films Mishra, who not only conducts theatre classes across schools but also organizes several summer and winter camps for adolescents and kids, feels that parents no longer harbour inhibition for such workshops. "Today, parents want their kids to do theatre. And that's quite encouraging. But many a time they do so with the intention of grooming their kids for TV reality shows or for personality development," he says. According to him, many use theatre as a shortcut to the Hindi film industry. "Jaipur theatre has given many stars to both the television and film industry, and perhaps has kindled the hope of theatre artistes of making it big in the film industry. Such a mindset is not healthy. This in the long run neither helps the artiste nor theatre," he adds.

Jaipur theatre needs better, original scripts Jaipur theatre might be ailing but it has its own charm and audience. If original plays, better scripts and direction are introduced, then the industry will grow, feels Mishra. "Theatre is an integral part of our culture, and if we market our plays well, I am sure that Jaipur theatre will mature, both in terms of quality and content," he says.

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Parineeti denies any competition with Priyanka

Parineeti Chopra insists she has been getting work on her own despite having a successful and top line actress Priyanka Chopra as her cousin.

Parineeti joined Yash Raj Films as a public relations consultant and later went on to sign a three-film deal with the company as an actress.

"I got my first film because of who I was. And after I started getting awards, people started knowing me. I don't have to sell myself. I think directors come to me if they feel I suit the role," Parineeti told in an interview.

"She (Priyanka) being my sister helps me in a way but I got work on my own. As we are not from filmi family so I know who to fall back on for ideas and suggestions. Her being my sister and her presence in the industry makes me more confident," she added.

Asked if she takes suggestions from her sister before deciding on her film, she said, "I choose my films on my own. I chose them with Aditya Chopra and Maneesh Sharma's help but when I am ever in doubt I ask her."

But the 24-year-old "Ladies vs Ricky Bahl" star feels there is a flip side as well being Priyanka's cousin as there are constant comparisons between the two.

"Because you don't know us personally so it is a big thing for an outsider. We have grown up together wearing each other's clothes. When comparisons happen we just laugh out, we don't understand why it is happening," she said.

Parineeti will be seen next in YRF's "Shuddh Desi Romance" directed by Maneesh Sharma, with Sushant Singh Rajput and newcomer Vaani Kapoor.

Interestingly, "Shuddh Desi Romance" and Priyanka's "Zanjeer" are releasing on September 6, but Parineeti denies any competition between the Chopra sisters.

Parineeti is equally excited about Priyanka's film and said, "I have seen the promos and I loved it," she added.

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'Chennai Express' finally beats '3 Idiots'

'Chennai Express' box office collections have yet again made it obvious that it's the audience that can make or break a film at the ticket window.

Tweeting the box office collection numbers, well-known film trade analyst Taran Adarsh said, "Rohit Shetty becomes most successful director of Hindi cinema: 3 centuries and 1 double century. Four films that feature in 100 cr+ grossers!"

Shah Rukh Khan's Chennai Express has crossed the Rs. 200 crore mark in a very short period. In fact, it also crossed the 100 crore mark in the shortest time period.

Rohit Shetty's understanding of the perfect ingredients for a typical masala Bollywood film clubbed with the business and marketing acumen of Shah Rukh helped Chennai Express thwart the records of Amir Khan's 3 Idiots, which has been ruling the top grossers charts till date.

At the same time, with this success Rohit Shetty too has emerged as the Bollywood's commercial movie king. Rohit Shetty's four films including Singham, Golmaal 3, Bol Bachchan, have made it to the Rs 100 crore club.

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Is Kareena still uncomfortable with Hrithik?

Kareena Kapoor and Imran Khan were shooting a lavish song sequence for Punit Malhotra's 'Gori Tere Pyar Mein' at a suburban studio on Friday. It is a special number composed by Vishal-Shekhar.

Mirror photographer spotted a very hassled Kareena, dressed in a gorgeous pink and black ethnic outfit, chatting animatedly on the phone in between shots. As we wondered who the person on the other end was, we caught a glimpse of Hrithik Roshan. No, the actor had not dropped by to say 'hi' to his alleged ex-flame and the heroine of his upcoming film, Karan Malhotra's Shuddhi. The actor was doing a photo shoot for Krrish 3 at the same studio. However, his co-star, Vivek Oberoi did make a courtesy call on the set of Punit's film.

It has been a decade since Hrithik and Kareena worked together. Their last film was Main Prem Ki Diwani Hoon. Before that the duo had worked in Mujhse Dosti Karoge!, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham and Yaadein.

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'Yamla Pagla Deewana' in taxman’s noose

Samir Karnik, the co-producer of the first film in the Yamla Pagla Deewana franchise was arrested yesterday by a team of officials from the Service Tax Department, headed by R Shekhar, over charges of tax evasion.

According to the Deputy Commissioner of Service Tax, Sameer Wankhede, Karnik had sold Yamla Pagla Deewana to Eros International for Rs 11.5 crore and evaded payment of service tax to the tune of Rs 1.18 crore.

"Karnik did not pay up. So, we arrested him and produced him in Court on Friday. He was later released on a bail of Rs 2 lakh," he said.

Meanwhile the franchise's star and co-producer SunnyDeol, too has erred on the payment of Service Tax. Wankhede said, "Sunny Sound Productions sold Yamla Pagla Deewana 2 to Viacom for Rs 28.5 crore and we took action against him on August 14"

"Both, Karnik and Sunny Sound Productions had claimed the Service Tax from Eros International and Viacom respectively, but they did not pay it to the government. Karnik has to make his payment quickly. Else we shall take recovery action. Sunny paid Rs 86 lakh on August 15 and promised to pay the balance soon."

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Action director attacks step-brother with sword

The feud between action director brothers Tinu Verma and Mahendra Verma reached a new low on Friday morning.

On July 29, Mirror had reported an episode where stunt director Tinu allegedly barged into his step brother's home and beat him up. The situation took a turn for the worse on Friday morning when Tinu went to the Film City, residence of Manohar Verma (brother of Mahendra) and allegedly attacked him with a sword.

On Friday morning, Tinu arrived on a two wheeler with some aides and tried to forcefully dump some filming equipment in Manohar's godown. When he retaliated, Tinu took out a sword and attacked him, leaving him seriously wounded. At that time, Manohar's wife was also present at the spot and the entire incident has been recorded in a CCTV camera.

Manohar was immediately taken to a local nursing home . However, the wounds were deep and he was therefore taken to Kokilaben Hospital where he received more than 25 stitches on his head.His legs too had multiple fractures and he also suffered a cracked skull.

Additional Commisioner of Police (North Region) Sunil Parashar confirmed the incident and said, "The investigation is on and the accused will be arrested soon. A case of attempt to murder has been registered against Tinu Verma and we are looking for him."

Talking about the incident, Mahendra Verma accused political leader Narendra Verma (brother of Tinu) of using his clout to trouble his family. "Narendra is misusing his political contacts to help Tinu. No police station was willing to take down my complain when he attacked me. I had to write to the CM about the danger my family is living in and that's when a complaint was registered against him. The cops are looking for him but Tinu is absconding."

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Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone get intimate

Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh who have been in the news for their alleged relationship, have now shot some intimate scenes in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Ram Leela, if reports are to be believed.

The couple shares a sizzling chemistry in real-life as is visible in their photographs. So, obviously the audiences' expectations are going to be high - from the movie as well as both of them.

Ranveer's affection was quite visible when he is said to have secretly visited the sets of Chennai Express to surprise Deepika. Also, there have been rumours of him visiting the diva at her place very frequently.

Since the shooting of Ram Leela began the alleged couple is staying away from the media but has not been able to cool down the rumours of them dating each other.

Let's wait and see what they have in store for their fans in Ram Leela and whether they be able to impress the audiences with their chemistry and performance in the movie.

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'Madras Cafe' faces protest in UK

On Friday morning, a crowd of 150 people, claiming to represent a pro-Tamil outfit landed up at the head offices of the Cineworld multiplex in West London. The group demanded that 'Madras Cafe' (Movie Review) be withdrawn from the theatres as it showed Tamilians in a negative light.

The incident was about to go out of hand, and the multiplex staff had to summon the cops to disperse the crowd. Despite the agitation, the multiplex carried on with the film's screening. When Mirror contacted the production house, a senior executive said: "There was chaos at the offices of Cineworld in London, but none of the film's shows have been cancelled." Said another senior official from the studio, "Since the British censor board has cleared the film without any cuts, there is no reason why the film should be withdrawn. We are enjoying an encouraging response from the audience, and will to ensure none of the patrons are affected."

However, additional security was deployed around the theatre's various outlets across the British capital.

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Akshay Kumar lashes out at ‘OUATIMD’ critics

After 'Once Upon a time in Mumbai Dobarara' lost out to SRK's 'Chennai Express' in box-office, critics have been dubbing the Akshay Kumar-starrer a flop and warning viewers that it is 'not even a one-time watch'. This has infuriated the actor, who has reportedly lashed out at the critics, and said that the only thing that matters is audience response.

Apparently Akshay Kumar has accused critics of not knowing the basic of filmmaking and hence it makes them unfit to understand what is the pulse of the audience and what movies they appreciate. The actor also made it clear that he will only respect those film critics who keep the viewers in their mind while expressing their opinions on any film.

However, we have a suggestion for Akshay. Rather than slamming critics it would have been better had you promoted the film in 'SRK way'. Isn't that the reason why Ekta Kapoor is also miffed with you for not giving enough time for film promotions?

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Priyanka Chopra to clash with cousin Parineeti

Actress Priyanka Chopra says she is not bothered about the release of her film " Zanjeer" coinciding with " Shuddh Desi Romance" starring her cousin Parineeti.

The Chopra sisters - Priyanka and Parineeti - are set to clash at box office with the release of their respective films 'Zanjeer' and 'Shuddh Desi Romance' on September 6.

"She is my sister, my family. It is very cheap when people try to create controversy and use that to write a little more about it. It is Chopra weekend and people must enjoy it," Priyanka told reporters at an event last evening.

After making her international singing debut, Priyanka has lent her voice to Disney's animated film " Planes". She has dubbed for an Indian plane, called Ishani, in the movie, which is a spin-off of "Cars" and " Cars 2".

"Every little girl wants to be a Disney princess, from sleeping beauty to Cinderella. Even I wanted to be a Disney fairy. This is the closest I could come to being a Disney princess, Ishani," Priyanka said.

"When I saw the film, it was like initially weird that a plane is talking in my voice. I am very animated, I open my eyes and talk. It is creatively different, it is novel. It is an exciting venture for me, not too many people have done it," she said.

Priyanka feels there are a few similarities between her and Ishani - she is confident, races with big bad boys and she is tough.

The actress says she believes in working wherever work calls her.

"I am an entertainer, performer, I go where I get work. It is not a crossover for me, I don't believe in this word. I am happy in this Indian film industry, love Hindi films, it is like an expansion to me," she said.

"Every person wants to grow, I want to work wherever I can. I am handling two careers, it is an exciting time," she said, adding that she would be happy to lend her voice to a Hindi film, provided the offer is interesting.

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Police praise Ajay Devgn for his self-discipline

On August 15, Ajay Devgn was driving back from his shooting when the traffic police stopped his car for having tinted glasses.

Since he is a celebrity, the cops were sensitive enough to ask Ajay to stay in the car while they took the licence of his driver.

As we all know, Ajay has not only played an exemplary police officer in Singham, he has also represented the cops well through many of his other films and has an emotional connect with the men in khaki. So he preferred to get out of the vehicle and chat with the cops.

The actor also removed the tinted glass and sent his car to the cops for verification the very next morning.

His action made the police appreciative of the fact that he, as a celebrity, did not even once try to use his star status to influence them and instead he was happy to abide by the law.

Well done, Ajay!

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Deepika holidays where Katrina-Ranbir did in Spain

Places, actions, destinies — they sometimes speak of a co-relation between people.

In what is a coincidence, Deepika Padukone is apparently holidaying on the same beach in Ibiza, Spain, where Ranbir and Katrina were spotted not too long ago.

Deepika has chosen to read scripts while she lies down on those chaise lounges and gets herself a suntan. And her sartorial choices will probably be more conservative, considering she is accompanied by her parents Prakash and Ujjala Padukone.

It would be interesting to know whether Dippy chose this destination for her vacation by design or default?

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Is Ekta Kapoor miffed with Akshay Kumar?

Earlier reports had stated that Akshay Kumar had infuriated producer Farah Khan by allegedly not doing his bit to promote her film 'Joker', and now there are more rumours that Akshay Kumar has now irked another filmmaker, Ekta Kapoor.

Ekta Kapoor is allegedly miffed with Akshay Kumar for not promoting Once Upon Ay Time In Mumbai Dobaara. The report also states that she feels that has had a negative impact on its box-office collections. Considering that Shah Rukh Khan has gone out of his way to promote his movie Chennai Express, Ekta supposedly feels that Akshay has not done justice to film promotions. There are also rumours floating around that Ekta believes the star apparently gave up on the movie even before its release and started distancing himself. She is said to feel that Akshay was dejected by the way Chennai Express was steaming ahead towards the Rs 200 crore club and gave up without a fight.

However, the bone of contention here is, why would an actor deliberately sabotage his own film? Obviously, the story defies logic, and fans should take it with a pinch of salt. The Khiladi Kumar is a professional to the hilt. In fact, Ekta herself claims that there is nothing to such stories. And if proof is needed, we're sure that will be in the form of another sequel. Any takers?

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Ranbir strongly recommended Katrina for Besharam!

If sources are to be believed, Katrina Kaif could have been a part of this movie.

Newcomer Pallavi Sharda is shining bright in the promos of her upcoming film Besharam with Ranbir Kapoor. She must be thanking her stars for this big break. However, if sources are to be believed, Katrina Kaif could have been a part of this movie.

zoOm found out that Ranbir Kapoor had strongly recommended Katrina Kaif for this movie. He did not want newcomer Pallavi to be a part of this ambitious project. However, director Abhinav Kashyap found his female protagonist in Pallavi and stuck to his decision. Rumor has it that director Abhinav Kashyap and Pallavi are more than just good friends. Clearly Abhinav has taken this relationship to a new level all together.

Even after constant feelers being sent from Ranbir Kapoor, the director stuck to his decision. Eventually, Ranbir had to give in to the wishes of Abhinav. Well seems like the off-screen couple, Ranbir and Kat are definitely trying hard to be a part of the same projects. It would have been quite interesting to see how their off-screen chemistry would reflect in this movie had they be cast together.

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Jeetendra & Family on holiday after 14 years

As is the case with many high-profile families — Jeetendra, Shobha Kapoor, Ekta and Tusshar all have independent, hectic schedules.

They do not even have much time for each other at home. While they are very close emotionally, they neither eat their meals together nor party together and have not taken a family holiday in the past 14 years, barring the one-day trip they took to Tirupati on Jeetendra's 70th birthday last year.

This October, Jeetendra and Shobha will join Tusshar in Cannes for the wedding of Shobha's best friend's son. While Ekta can't join them for the marriage, as her own best friend (Anita Hassanandani) is getting married around the same time in India, she will join her parents and brother post the marriage for a one-week holiday in the South of France.

Shobha has plans to spoil her children silly during this vacation with loads of shopping.

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Ajay Devgn-Vidya Balan dub for an animated film

After Amitabh Bachchan and Sunny Deol, Ajay Devgn and Vidya Balan have lent their voices for the animated version of an epic.

A source revealed, "Vidya has dubbed for the female lead, while Ajay has lent his voice for one of the other protagonists. Amitabh and Sunny too have lent their voices to the same animated film."

Dubbing for these kind of films is fast catching up as a trend, with a lot of actors lending their voices to animated characters. Recently, Priyanka Chopra dubbed for an animated film and others like Govinda, Suneil Shetty, Hrithik Roshan and Katrina Kaif have also dubbed in the past.

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John’s in solidarity with Delhi’s ‘real’ bikers

John Abraham has been busy promoting his film, Madras Cafe, in the capital over the last couple of days. Being a passionate biker himself, John chose to speak to us about the incident in which a stunt biker in the city was shot at by Delhi Police.

Said John, "I am obviously aware about this entire episode. Just because of this incident, thinking of the entire biker community as this lot of thugs is not justified, I think."

John has, during his past few visits to the capital, bonded with some of the biker brotherhoods here. And according to him, those are the true riders and representatives of the biker community and not these stuntsmen, who according to him, are rotten apples trying to spoil the entire basket.

He said, "I know a lot of the biker groups and brotherhoods that are based in Delhi. I have met them and I know they are disciplined bikers. These people are true riders; they wear helmets and follow all the rules. This one incident has affected their image. A rotten apple can spoil the whole basket. So, I just want to say that my heart goes out to the real bikers. I stand in solidarity with the Delhi biker community."

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Shah Rukh and Rohit Shetty to team up for a Marathi film?

Shah Rukh Khan and director Rohit Shetty might team up for a Marathi film together. Rohit, who has a "Marathi subject in mind" has discussed it with SRK already.

"Rohit ke paas kucch subject hai. So he was saying that we should make a Marathi film together. And I want to produce one soon," said Shah Rukh.

Post the success of their recent film, it would be great to see the hit jodi come together for a regional film. Though SRK is keen on producing one, we might not see him in a full fledged role. "As an actor, I may not be able to participate as I don't know the language. Maybe, given a chance, I will do a guest appearance or something. But as a film person I can make it a little better by giving it as much importance as Hindi films," he added.

Shah Rukh feels that producing Marathi films will be a lot easier because they are not as expensive as their Bollywood counterparts. "We can afford them and market them better," he added. Though he doesn't have much knowledge about the Marathi film industry, he knows a few actors here.

"I know a lot of people involved in Marathi films and I would like to participate in some way or the other. It will be good as regional cinema is very important for the state. It has to go side by side with Bollywood. It is important that I do something about it soon," he said.

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Grand Masti: Bruna-Riteish’s rainy song

Brazilian beauty Bruna Abdullah, who scorched the big screen in a dance number with actor Imran Khan, will now be seen in Indra Kumar's Grand Masti.

One of the highlights of the adult comedy, apparently, is Bruna's gyrating performance with Riteish Deshmukh in the rain song Aaja Mamla Set Karle. A source, however, tells us that the former model-turned-actress didn't have the best time shooting for it.

Bruna and Riteish shot for a whole night — starting from seven in the evening right up to six in the morning — in the rain with giant fans blowing air on them. The pair didn't get a chance to warm up given the cold rain and gusts of wind, causing the actress to experience sharp cramps at one point. However, once Bruna saw the end product, she was very happy with the way it had turned out.

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Direction, choreography give me creative satisfaction: Prabhu Deva

During a recent trip to Indore, ace choreographer-turned-director Prabhu Deva spoke to us about his comfort zone in B-wood, and why he believes in entertaining the audience over pleasing critics.

In a career spanning almost three decades, Prabhu's worn different hats - actor, dancer, choreographer, and director - and the last seems to be his current favourite. "I'm happy working behind the camera. Direction and choreography give me more creative satisfaction," he says.

About his switch to the director's chair, he says, "Back then, acting was more of an opportunity to gain recognition, but now I'm focussed as a director and choreographer."

After the success of Wanted and Rowdy Rathore, Prabhu seems slotted as an action filmmaker, but he's looking for projects that render human emotions. "I don't know how I got categorised as someone who can only make action flicks. Be it anger, love or comedy, cinema is all about portraying emotions and that is what I want to do. As a choreographer, I love to direct romantic songs and it is the same case with the movies I make. Action toh aise hi ho gaya," he clarifies.

But as a National-Award winning choreographer, doesn't he wish to gain similar recognition as a director? "As a director, my job is to entertain people, and if my movie does both - entertain audiences and earn money - then I'm the happiest person on earth. I prefer my audiences' seeti over any award. Films are all about emotions; I don't think the love between a Tamil couple would be any different from that between a Punjabi one."

Speaking about his Bollywood choreography experiences, Prabhu tells us, "Stars don't need to be great dancers. People love them for their unique charm, style and attitude. They don't have to go out of their way to dance perfectly." He adds, "There are some awesome dancers in the industry. Shahid, Hrithik, and Madhuri Dixit Nene are show stealers."

Prabhu also talks about judging dance reality shows. "I love the concept behind dance-based reality shows. But somehow I'm not comfortable judging them. I cannot pin-point negatives in an artiste. So if the show makers allow me to tell only good things, only then you'll see me a part of a reality show. Such shows give you recognition and fame, which are essential to survive in the industry. In our time, we had to move from director to director to request them to give us a chance. But today, if you are talented, filmmakers will approach you," Prabhu says.

He shares about his personal struggle too. "I faced numerous rejections, but it only made me stronger. In school, I was rejected from cultural performances because I was a weak student. In the industry, I was rejected because I probably didn't have an impactful surname. Here, it's easy to become a star but very difficult to maintain that position," he says.

Finally, speaking about MP, Prabhu says, "This is my first visit to the state and I find it very beautiful and clean. The cities are very well maintained." About MP being the new 'it' destination with B-wood's filmmakers, he adds, "If my script demands similar landscapes, I'm definitely going to come down to MP for my film's shoot."

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Madras Cafe movie review

Story: In the early 1990s, India's battling rebel Tamils in Sri Lanka - how many losses win this war?

Review: Straight up, Madras Cafe couldn't be more different to director Shoojit Sircar's Vicky Donor. Political, tense, finally explosive, Madras Cafe is no picnic in the neighborhood park. Major Vikram Singh (Abraham) lands in Sri Lanka, heading RAW's covert operations. He must work with colleague Bala to get Anna Bhaskaran (Rathnam), head of the rebel LTF group - "Also known as Tigers" - to accept a peaceful resolution. Vikram knows Anna will be a huge challenge - what surprises him is how many others he must face.

Madras Cafe dives boldly into terrain Bollywood hasn't touched before. Its arsenal features research, respect and bravely, no songs. But it's not arty or preachy anywhere. Its first half is layered, complex trails - leaks, foreign interests, domestic rivals - slowly revealed to Vikram. As RAW boss Robin Dutt (Basu) ups the pressure, Vikram must move fast through sultry, dangerous airs. His foreign journalist friend Jaya (Fakhri, apparently playing real-life journalist Anita Pratap, who first interviewed LTTE chief Prabhakaran) knows this conflict's heart even better than Vikram, whose discoveries, from Sri Lanka to South Block, grow traumatic.

Madras Cafe's true star is its story which builds up to an agonizing end. It brings to life the Lankan war which many viewers were too young to have known. It highlights India's ambiguous role, moving sensitively, taking no sides, except those of relationships involving respect - but no romance - between Vikram and Jaya, duty, victory and loss. Its second half grows more fraught and taut, conspiracies and compulsions becoming clearer. John stays low-key and competent as Vikram while supporting actors, like agents Bala, SP and Vasu, stand out. Restrained performances by the LTF suicide bombers are chilling.

The cinematography is remarkable, shots of huge naval warships, helicopters floating across hills, sunshine on a deadly sea, haunting. Commendably, Sircar never overindulges in gore, keeping Madras Cafe a shifting site of mental violence. Madras Cafe deserves an extra half-star for guts, going for the gunpowder - but with a restrained hand.

Note: If you like typical Hindi movie masala, unrealistic action or melodrama, this movie is not for you.

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Shomshuklla’s 'Sandcastle' to be screened at film festivals in London

Shomshuklla's debut venture, 'Sandcastle', will be screened at the Tenerife International Film Festival as well as the International Filmmaker Festival of World Cinema to be held in London this October.

"My art has been recognised and I am truly humbled. For someone coming from a non-film background, there was a lot of risk that went into making this a reality. But it has only enhanced my confidence," says Shomshuklla.

Sandcastle has been nominated in four categories — Best Feature Film, Best Actor (Female), Best Supporting Actor (Male) and Best Cinematography — at the Tenerife International Film Festival. It is also the only Indian venture to be featured in the jury's selection, sharing stage with films from the US, UK, Canada and France. At the International Filmmaker Festival of World Cinema, it has been nominated in the Best Foreign Language Feature Film category.

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Narendra Modi campaigns for Swami Vivekananda

A special screening of The Light: Swami Vivekananda, directed by Tutu Sinha, was held for Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi in Ahmedabad recently. Also present at the screening were the CM's cabinet members, producer J Misra and actor Deep Bhattacharya, who essays the revered monk.

Modi said, "On Swami Vivekananda's 150th birth anniversary, the film is a great tribute by the producers. I must say that the director and the writer, in those few hours, have successfully encapsulated the life and work of the legendary monk. Deep fits into the character brilliantly."

Announcing that his government would make the movie tax-free in the state, Modi said that it is a must-watch for all Indians, adding, "This film has a special message for the youth."

Misra says, "Swami Vivekananda has been an inspiration for people all over the world. Isn't it amazing that his teachings are relevant even after 150 years, ?"

The makers of the film have even planned an exclusive yatra — The Light Express — to screen the film at places where Swami Vivekananda delivered speeches during his travel across India. "Besides getting a larger audience, it will be an enlightening experience for people," concludes Misra.

The Light: Swami Vivekananda, produced by TriColour Productions (P) Ltd, releases August 23.

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Who's the new girl in Salman's life?

Like every year on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan, Salman Khan along with his brothers Sohail and Arbaaz, visited his sister Alvira Agnihotri at her Bandra house.

Alvira, whom Sallu fondly calls Baby, is the apple of his eyes and apparently the actor had presented her with a penthouse worth Rs 10 crore last year on Rakhi. However, this year, Alvira had to vie for Salman's attention, as another lady gave her stiff competition.

The young lady who hogged the limelight on Tuesday's do was none other than their pint-size niece. The toddler is the daughter of their cousin who lives abroad and had specially flown down to be with the Khan-daan on the occasion of Rakhi.

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Ekta Kapoor blames SRK for OUATIMD failure

With her biggest release of the year, 'Once Upon Ay Time In Mumbai Dobaara' opening to a tepid box office response, Ekta Kapoor is not in a good mood these days. And the Balaji head honcho holds SRK responsible for the debacle. It was reported that Ekta had refused SRK's request for a screening of her film at Mannat and TOI has the details of the fallout.

Trouble started when SRK announced that Chennai Express will release on August 8 despite the fact that Ekta had already called dibs on Eid for the release of her ambitious project OUATIMD.

Ekta tried her best to outwit SRK in this battle, even calling in a favour from MNS (TOI report dated August 2) to make the star tow the line.

Then began a long series of negotiations between her and Chennai Express's producers, UTV Motion Pictures and Red Chillies Entertainment. Ekta finally agreed on the other big public holiday, August 15.

According to a source close to Ekta, she was assured by the production houses that they will withdraw their film on August 15 to make way for OUATIMD in at least 2000 halls across the country.

"Ekta relented because she was promised something in return. And the bait was the promise that Chennai Express wouldn't come in the way of the big release she had planned for OUATIMD on Independence Day," said the source. But given that Chennai Express set the cash registers ringing, the film's producers decided that making way for OUATIMD will not be profitable. When Ekta learnt about it early last week, she was left fuming. TOI has it that Shobha Kapoor called up UTV to enquire about the apparent volte face and was told that "it was SRK's decision".

Things got worse when Jeetendra stepped in. He tried to reach SRK, who did not answer the calls, alleged a source close to Ekta. "While most of his calls went unanswered, finally an unrecognisable person picked up to say, 'Shah Rukh sir is busy with interviews'," added the source. The end result was that OUATIMD ended up opening on just 1600 screens; a limited release for a movie which was reportedly made at a budget of Rs 85 crore. "If UTV had lived up to its promise, OUATIMD could have raked in about Rs 10 crore more on its opening day which in turn might have had a Domino effect on its subsequent collections. To add to Balaji's woes the halls they were given were small ones which in turn must have had an adverse effect on their opening day collection," said a source from the industry.

When contacted, Ekta said, "Whatever has happened is extremely disgusting. I am very angry." Though SRK's production house did not provide a statement, a source from the organisation told us, "Chennai Express released on August 9 and it is illogical to expect that the film will be voluntarily pulled out from theatres in its first crucial week."This was corroborated by a source close to Siddharth Roy Kapur, the other producer of the film.

An official from a leading multiplex in Andheri West, on request of anonymity said, "It's a producer's prerogative to withdraw a film to aid the release of the next one. But we did not receive any such requests from the producers of Chennai Express because it was doing very well. But please note that a producer can only ask for withdrawal, the number of shows we gave to OUATIMD on the first day were decided as per our discretion."

Another multiplex from Juhu told TOI that the producers of Chennai Express had "pressurised" theatres not to withdraw the film.

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Aishwarya out, Priyanka bags item number in 'Ram Leela'

Sanjay Leela Bhansali's search for a dancing diva has finally ended with Priyanka Chopra. But what about Bhansali's blue-eyed girl Aishwarya Rai Bachchan who was reportedly in advanced talks to dance her way to a comeback with 'Ram Leela'.

With the Bachchan bahu confirming a meeting with the director, a bigger collaboration seems to be in the offing. "We did meet. Please wait for an official announcement which will be made soon," said Aishwarya. Meanwhile Bhansali is busy preparing for the elaborate number which will see Priyanka matching steps with the film's lead actor Ranveer Singh.

The shooting will take place next week in Film City and Anju Modi, who designed the outfits of the film's leading lady Deepika Padukone, has already fashioned costumes for Priyanka. A source close to Priyanka told TOI, "Bhansali met Priyanka two months ago to discuss the song in detail. Priyanka loved the idea but dates were a concern as she is also shooting for Gunday and Mary Kom simultaneously."

Speaking about Aishwarya's involvement in the scheme of things, the source added, "Bhansali likes to meet a lot of people before he finalises anyone. But it looks like he has something bigger planned for Aishwarya, may be a different film altogether."

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Akshay Kumar pulled over by NY cops!

It seems like stars need to prep themselves for all kinds of sticky situations while traveling these days.

Sources close to the actor revealed that Akshay Kumar had to face the NYPD on his recent trip to New York! So what charge was the Khiladi booked under?

Reported by zoOm, Khiladi Kumar was leaving a mall post a shopping spree when he was halted by an NYPD officer! When asked to pull over and confirm his identity, Akshay Kumar got a little worried. Much to actor's relief the reason for this pull over was that the officer was a huge fan of the star and wanted to play a prank on the biggest prankster of Bollywood! An admirer of Akshay's perfect comic timing and wit, the officer knew exactly who he was and later requested him for a few pictures as well!

Akshay may have been the godfather of pranks on his film sets but it seems like his fans have gone a step further in reality!

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Bappi Lahiri turns director

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Love stories never go out of fashion: Neha Hinge

Neha Hinge entered glambiz after becoming Femina Miss India International 2010. And from there on it was a natural progression towards Bollywood.

Ask her about the transition and she quips, "So many people have asked me this question. Though it is right that many beauty pageant winners have made their way to Bollywood, but that was not the case with me. I am a computer engineer and took up a job after I won the contest. Since that was going well I never thought I would need to get into Bollywood. But that's when I got the offer for my first Bollywood film."

Neha, who was recently seen in her debut film Luv U Soniyo opposite Tanuj Virwani, adds, "And when I got the offer, I was very skeptical about saying yes to it. But my father told me that such opportunities come for a select few and since it has come your way you should take it up. And from then on I have never given it a second thought."

Neha adds, "Bollywood and fashion world are two completely different mediums. The only thing common is the confidence that you have to face the crowd or be in front of the camera. I have done so many shoots that I didn't feel uncomfortable or nervous in front of the camera even for my first shot."

Neha, who had recently visited Ahmedabad for promoting her film, was excited to see the river front and to add to her excitement was a boat ride in the river. She says, "This is the first time we are doing something like this. We have been to many cities for promotions, but this is unique. I would always remember my trip to Ahmedabad."

Though, still new in the industry, Neha is taking things slowly. She says, "I haven't yet signed any film, but I am open to different kinds of roles. It's not only about being seen everywhere, it's also about whether the audience wants to see you or not. And that's why I want to wait and see how the audience like me and then take my next step. Starting off with a romantic film is more like a safe bet because we all know that love stories never go out of fashion. And even though there is audience for off-beat films as well, I have taken a more tested route."

But despite taking the safe route, Neha says she is adventurous in life and likes to take risks. "I can't plan too far into the future. I take things as they come and I decide within the options that are available to me."

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Salman's Mental will beat Chennai at BO: Sohail Khan

At a recently held bash at a plush Sobo club, Sohail Khan, who walked in with his usual swagger just before midnight, was heard bragging about his upcoming directorial, 'Mental', which he is producing under his own banner. Apparently he is quite confident that his magnum opus starring Salman Khan, will break quite a few records at the box office.

Guests present at the party saw Sohail going up to his friends as well as rank strangers and telling them that Mental, which is slated for a Republic Day release, will be a bigger hit than Chennai Express — which is on a record breaking spree. According to him, the film will be Salman's biggest blockbuster and will even dwarf his Dabangg in terms of box office collections.

A source close to the film justified Sohail's unbridled enthusiasm, "Sohail is extremely happy with the way Mental has shaped up. He is particularly excited about the dance numbers. He believes the album will be a chartbuster."

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Is Chennai Express a 'bokwaas' hit?

The butter brand is known to have creative ads on current situations and issues. From politics, Bollywood to any other stream, it has touched all spaces. And now Amul has rooted for Deepika twice.

Deepika Padukone who has got back to back success with Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani and Chennai Express seems to have become a favorite for Amul. For the first time Amul has made an actor trend twice in such a short time. With her success in both the movies, Amul has had a delight to do two ads on her characters in the movie.

First with her in her sexy blue sari dancing on the beats of Batameez Dil and now on her box-office hit word Bokwas. The shining diva has surely become utterly butterly delicious actress with her back to back box-office hits.

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Regret lifting songs in the past: Pritam

Pritam, 42, has so much work on his plate that he has not taken a break for the longest time. He is emotional and is always seeking love and recognition more than money. While he has given a lot to the 100 Hindi films he has given music to, 'Barfi' has given him a lot. His music in 'Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani' became a blockbuster and his two songs from 'Once Upon A Time in Mumbai Dobaara' have entered the Mirchi Top 20 charts. He talks to TOI about his irritation with himself on being absent-minded, his unduly long depressive phases and what makes him a male chauvinist. Excerpts:

You are infamously disorganised. Is that true? I am extremely forgetful and absent-minded and have got worse with age. For instance, I remember when I bought my first car, I went to a studio for recording. I forgot that the car was there and came back in an auto. In the morning, I was searching for my car and went to the police station to lodge an FIR. Fortunately, the engineer from the studio called me while I was at the police station, telling me about my leaving the car there. My motor action goes wrong. Once I was speaking on the mobile and saw a caterpillar on the curtain next to me. I wanted to throw the caterpillar out, but I threw the phone out instead. Earlier while driving, I used to smoke. Many times instead of throwing the matchstick, I would throw the matchbox. My biggest problem now is the phone. I write SMSes but don't send them. I am so irritated with my habit. I will text a musician for recording, but will not send the message. Next day, I will be sitting and waiting for him whereas he has not even got the message. I will forget faces of people I have worked with. I am constantly looking at people and scanning them and giving blank smiles. Having a manager also does not help, as I also forget to tell him what to tell others.

How did you become a music director? I am born and brought up in Kolkata. My father used to work for the railways and my mother was a school teacher. I come from a lower middle-class family. Our house had a tin roof and was just the size of one small room, which we had bifurcated into two. There was a tiny toilet outside, which did not even have water and we would get water from outside. During the rains, I remember, I would put katoris under the roof as water would seep into our house. But, I had a really happy childhood. I would go up with my dad before the rains and put an alkatra on our roof to ensure water would not come in. I recently went back after 20 years and could not believe we used to stay there. They had broken down the whole thing and I could just not stop crying. I just broke down and could not get up and even cried on the way back in the car, as flashbacks from my childhood came to me and I realised how far I had come in life. The only dissatisfaction my mom always had was that my dad had not taken up a bigger place. My dad is originally from Chittagong in Bangladesh and left everything to come and start afresh in Kolkata just before the Indo- Bangladesh war in 1972. He played the Hawaiian guitar and would teach it to the mohalla kids in our small house. Even though we had such a small place, everyday there were music classes there and even others would come to teach, so I landed up learning the tabla, music and guitar, but took a fascination to the guitar. Anyways, after finishing my graduation in Geology, I had joined MSc and was preparing for entrance tests when I saw an ad for FTII and applied. I got selected and did my sound recording and engineering there. FTII changed my life and I came closer to the film industry and moved to Mumbai. I initially shacked up with seven other friends in Malad for one year. I started getting work from my seniors at FTII and composed ad jingles and title music for TV serials. After sharing rooms with my friends for a couple of years, I bought my own first flat in Andheri in 2001 (he today owns the whole floor and it is a studio now). I used to do ads with Raju Hirani, where I met Sanjay Gadhvi. We had a whole night session of playing songs. Sanjay called me on the way back home and said I am making a film Tere Liye, where he wanted to use all the songs I had composed and sung for him that night. He introduced me to Yash Raj and I got to compose for three films for him there — Mere Yaar Ki Shaadi Hai, Dhoom and Dhoom 2. Sanjay is a big factor in my life and really backed me and that's how I became a music director.

How did you meet your wife Smita? Her older sister wanted to become a singer and Smita, an actor. She had come with her sister for a demo to me. Even though she is 10 years younger to me, I found her judgement of music very good and was attracted to her. She would say on my face, 'I don't like this song.' I pestered her to work with me till she was looking out for acting work. We dated for four years and got married in 2007. Marriage, of course, changes your equation and she is now bringing up our two children, that is tougher than composing music. Her grouse with me is that I did not allow her to work. That is our big fight subject, apart from the fact that I don't have any time. Earlier, I used to do 20 films a year. I cut it down to eight and now want to cut it down even further. Work gives me a high and I'm totally a workaholic.

There was a time a few years back, when you were virtually branded a lifter. Did that affect you? In the beginning, I was immature and was not being advised correctly. I was listening to briefs blindly and did not have time to think. If a director would give me a tune, I would adapt it. I am a big RD Burman fan and used to feel that it is normal for all big directors to copy. Nobody was there to advise me about the changing world. I thought it was normal and everybody did it. I was also amongst the first to give credits and recreate songs, for instance Bheegi Bheegi was an adaptation of a Bengali folk song. The problem is you can't give credits without buying rights. Sometimes, the producer would promise that he would buy the rights and it had not been done. I regret it big time. That is something that does not allow me to enjoy my success today. It's like a ghost that is following you. At one time, I thought I will quit as anything I would do would be branded and there would always be this doubt whether it was copied even though it was original. After 2008, I consciously decided to not do it and, from then on, I have never done it. Professionally, I always felt low as I was not getting due respect, even though I was working so hard.

Today, most music directors have started singing their own songs even though their voices may or may not be best suited for it. How have you managed to resist that temptation? At the end of the day, the song is the main thing and it should get the best voice. I am an ordinary singer and want the best voice for the song. I don't want to spoil it, as for me the song is most important.

Bengali women are considered dominating? Is that true? Bengali men can be MCPs. I am quite a male chauvinist. I am conservative and am not open-minded. Earlier, when my wife could have acted, I did not want her to. In fact, that is her biggest angst with me and trouble I have called upon myself. Now, I want her to work to save myself. I actually think Bengali women are quite sweet.

Your strength as a music composer seems to be with emotional songs. Are you emotional? I am extremely emotional and sensitive. For instance, I am so attached to the first flat I bought (that is now his studio), that I land up spending more time there than where we live. My kids tell me, 'That is your house and this is our house.' I am most attached to my mother and my daughter. I get hurt easily, but, since I am shy, I will not give it back, but will go into my own cocoon. I will lock myself in my studio and not go home for 15 days and will be depressed. My problem is I do not share my problem with anyone. I will just work. I think pathos is natural to me and may be it helps me make sad songs. I am a weak person and have high temper. I need a lot of love. I work best when I get a lot of love. Anurag Basu, Imtiaz Ali, Ayan Mukerji and Milan Luthria have given a lot of love to me. If my experience is good with a director, I also get attached to him emotionally.

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