Will 'Kurbaan' length, grim subject work?

Director confident about his 2 hours 37 minutes long film

"Kurbaan" has turned out to be 2 hours 37 minutes long after editing. Debutant director Rensil D'Silva's movie is longer than the show-timing multiplexes approve of and lengthy films on grim themes are not the flavour of the season. But D'Silva is unfazed.

"My film is not grim. It's about a serious global issue. But it isn't a documentary on terrorism. It's designed as a fast-paced thriller," D'Silva told IANS.

He also says that the release hasn't been timed to coincide with the first anniversary of the terror attacks on Mumbai.

"We're coming on Friday, November 20. The date was chosen according to availability of space," said the director.

Tense but happy D'Silva has just about wrapped up the post-production work of the film that has Saif Ali Khan, Kareena Kapoor and Vivek Oberoi in major roles. And he is ready to take a long break before moving into his next film which would be a marked departure from the theme of terrorism in "Kurbaan".

Kareena nervous about mom’s reaction to steamy scene

She was hoping Babita doesn’t see it

Kareena Kapoor’s lovemaking scene with Saif Ali Khan in “Kurbaan” and the film’s bold poster showing them half naked are the talk of the town.

Kareena apparently had no qualms about doing the scene. In fact, she has said in an interview that she did the lovemaking scene because it was an integral part of the film. She said she would have done the scene even if her co-star was someone else, but since she knows Saif in real life, things got a bit easy.

However, after watching the film’s trial show at Yash Raj Studios, Kareena has got a bit nervous about her mother Babita’s reaction to the steam scene.

Therefore, Kareena put in a special request to “Kurbaan” producer Karan Johar asking him to delete the scene in the show which her mother and her friends will be attending.

But Karan is against doing this and has tried convincing Kareena not to get scared or be nervous about Babita’s reaction.

Kareena is currently in Sydney for a shoot, but apparently when she left, this was one of her top concerns.

Honeymoon in the Bahamas for Shilpa

Raj Kundra has been generous will money and effort while planning

picture: ITP Image

After a fairy tale romance, Raj Kundra has planned to treat Shilpa Shetty to a fairy tale honeymoon.

According to reports, UK-based billionaire Raj Kundra has booked their honeymoon in the Bahamas.

The two are getting married at a farmhouse in Khandala on November 22, which will be followed by a grand reception in Mumbai on November 24. The couple will then proceed to seek the blessing of Shilpa’s spiritual gurus Sri Amma and Sri Bhagwan at the Oneness Temple near Chennai.

They will then set off for the Bahamas.

Raj wanted Shilpa to have a memorable honeymoon, so he has put in a lot of money and effort to plan their holiday.

Raj has booked the Regal Suite for them at the Atlantis Bahamas resort on the Paradise Islands. Among other things, the stunningly beautiful hotel has the world's biggst marine habitat and also a large casino.

Shilpa has never been to the Bahamas so she is in for many surprises, more so as Raj has kept the honeymoon details a secret from her.

Katrina keen to sign SRK for her film

She’s planning to turn producer with a love story

picture: Getty Images

If sources are to be believed, Katrina Kaif is all set to turn a producer. And guess what? She wants to cast Shah Rukh Khan in the lead opposite herself.

Kareena has zeroed in on a French film that’s she’s really liked and is going to remake it in Hindi after acquiring the rights.

With almost all her movies becoming big hits, Katrina is now thinking about some serious business. Nowadays she is seen taking keen interest in the finer points of film production and is also meeting a lot of trade guys.

She is interacting a lot with the producers whom she has worked with to get some in-depth knowledge about filmmaking.

Katrina was also seen bonding very well with SRK at Subhash Ghai’s party recently. At that time itself rumours were doing rounds that the two are planning to do a film together. However, it seemed that SRK has offered a role to Kat, but now it is the other way round, with Katrina offering him a role in her film.

Katrina feels that there is no other actor as romantic as Shah Rukh and so for her romantic movie, SRK will be the man for her.

Did we read Salman anywhere? Probably he is not part of Kat’s love story!

Emraan Hashmi to be a father soon

He is eagerly awaiting this new role

picture: Viral Bhayani

Bollywood actor Emraan Hashmi is going to enter a new phase in his life when his first child arrives early next year and he says that he is eagerly waiting for this new role.

"The baby is due in February. People say it's a completely different dimension and I am eagerly waiting for this new change. I don’t know what it is. But it's supposedly tough being a dad so let's see," said Emraan on a visit to the Capital to promote his film "Tum Mile".

The actor, who has done films like "Kalyug", "Murder" and "Jannat", among others, married long-time girlfriend Parveen Shahani in 2006.

Indo-Asian News Service

Aishwarya celebrating 36th birthday today

She’s set out to make millions smile

picture: ITP Image

On her 36th birthday today (Nov 1), Aishwarya Rai has been named the first goodwill ambassador for Smile Train, a charity that works worldwide for children with cleft lip.

The former Miss World has partnered with the NGO, in association with her own charity - Aishwarya Rai Foundation - and will spread awareness and garner resources to help the movement, said a press release.

"God has given me plenty of reasons to smile and I feel it's time to spread it around. There are a lot of children out there who so desperately need help, but can't receive timely care because their families cannot afford this surgery or are ill-educated about this condition.

"Working with Smile Train, if I can make a difference in their lives, it will certainly make me feel honoured and blessed," Aishwarya said.

As the goodwill ambassador, Aishwarya will actively work to help Smile Train provide free cleft surgery to children in 76 developing countries around the world, including India.

According to information provided by the NGO, over one million children await cleft surgery in India alone, and currently only 50 percent children born with cleft in India get the medical assistance required. And Smile Train officials feel Aishwarya will be of immense help in taking forward their movement globally.

"Aishwarya's universal appeal and star power will be a priceless asset to our organisation, and we consider it a great privilege to have her represent our organisation," Smile Train president Brian Mullaney said.

"Her poise, intelligence and dedication to our mission will catapult the work that we do to new and exciting heights. Since she is a global superstar, it makes her the perfect representative for our global organisation. There is no corner of the world where she isn't known, and in each of those corners, there is a Smile Train hospital that is helping kids every day of the year," he added.

The rising concern for kids born with a cleft was raised worldwide through Smile Train's recent Oscar-winning movie "Smile Pinki". The 39-minute documentary made by Megan Mylan shows the story of a poor girl in rural India whose life is transformed when she receives free surgery to correct her cleft lip. It was made in Hindi and Bhojpuri and won the 81st Academy Award for Best Documentary (Short Subject).

Meanwhile, Ash's megastar father-in-law Amitabh Bachchan wished her a "long prosperous life" on her birthday.

"We have... just brought in Aishwarya's birthday and wished her love and happiness and a long prosperous life. It was just the family," Amitabh posted on his blog early Sunday morning.

Ash, Hrithik to sing for Bhansali’s film

They are also learning Portuguese

picture: Getty Images

We were expecting Aishwarya and Abhishek to make an appearance at Hrithik’s big bash for his mom on Oct 25, but they were not to be seen.

Considering Hrithik is a co-star she’s currently working with in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s film “Guzaarish”, she could have made a short visit as she stays just two lanes away from Hrithik’s house.

As far as “Guzaarish” is concerned, we hear Ash and Hrithik will be singing a song for the film that will be recorded by Bhansali himself.

This is the first time Hrithik will sing for a movie. Aishwarya had sung “Apun Bola Tu Meri Laila” along with Shah Rukh for “Josh”.

In “Guzaarish”, Hrithik plays a paraplegic. Aishwarya plays his nurse who is married, but falls in love with Hrithik’s character.

Apparently, the duo is learning Portuguese for the film too.

Ash giving Vipul Shah a tough time?

She’s said to be unhappy with his movie

picture: WENN

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is said to be giving Vipul Shah, director of her Akshay Kumar starrer “Action replay”, a hard time.

This is quite surprising as Ash generally comes across as a thorough professional as far as her work commitments are concerned. But according to the sources from the unit of “Action Replay”, Ash is apparently acting difficult.

She has refused to dub for the film as she is not very happy with the way the movie has shaped up. So she is not sparing any dates for Vipul.

However, sources close to Ash completely denied these rumours and termed them as baseless. According to them, it is Vipul who has stalled the shoot of “Action Replay” since he has been busy with the promotions of “London Dreams”. Now that the film has released, Vipul will start with “Action Replay” once again.

The Saint Or Sinner?

some say she is the adarsh bharatiya nari, but others think she is cool and calculative. As the actress turns 36, we reveal what the real Ash is like...

From being the most beautiful woman in the world to being the perfect bahu and daughter, Aishwarya has many different facets to her character.

But while most people are more than happy to sing her praises, there are plenty who think she is calculative, manipulative and over-ambitious.

So is an angel or a devil... you decide!

The angel Ash

The Doting wife
Abhishek says, “Ash and I are best friends and we are always talking to each other. The best thing is she looks so beautiful even when she wakes up. I am really glad that she and my mum get along so well. I must admit I was a bit apprehensive pre-marriage.”

Dad-in-law’s pet
When Abhishek decided to marry Aish, Amitabh was thrilled. “She’s a simple, traditional and a home-loving individual, warm and endearing. Her inner beauty is far greater than her much-renowned outer beauty.” On the relation between Big B and Ash, Jaya said, “Amitji just lights up seeing her. I think she has filled up the void that was created after Shweta got married.”

Mum-in-law’s bestie
Abhishek has said, “Ash calls up mum more times in a day than I do.” Jaya adores her too! “I have never seen her push herself whenever we are all together. I like that quality of hers to stand behind. She is quiet. She listens and she is taking it all in. And another beautiful thing is that she has fitted in so well in the family.”

Director’s delight
Her Jodha a Akbar director risked the ire of the entire industry when at the IIFA awards this year, he said, “Priyanka, you are a very hardworking actress, but I was just discussing with Jayaji why Aishwarya did not get the Best Actress Award.” Jaya Bachchan agreed: “Priyanka is a very good actress but I was wondering why Ash’s was ignored at IIFA.”

Competitor’s pride
Sushmita Sen, who started in the industry at the same time as Ash said, “I am proud of Aishwarya. She has given every Indian a reason to be proud of. I have never compared myself with Ash.”

The devil Ash Rai

Lover’s nightmare
After their break-up, in a 2002 interview to Times of India, Ash said that Salman abused her but thankfully did not leave her with any marks. Salman, who had remained tight-lipped about the issue, said in a recent interview, “Obviously in a fight, I am going to be angry. I will want to give a whack my best shot. I don’t think that she would have survived it. So no, it’s not true.”

A Manipulative girlfriend
Ex-boyfriend Vivek Oberoi said on the show Tere Mere Beach Mein, it was Ash who egged him to hold a press conference to tell the world that Salman was threatening him. Since that day Vivek became an untouchable in the industry and his career took a downturn. He said, “She told me, ‘tum bahut immature ho’. Apne industry mein ek dastoor hai – jaise Tupperware jahan plastic ke dabbe banate hain ...usse zyada plastic hamare yahan hai. Plastic smile, plastic heart... plastic everything!” That was a candid confession there.

The haunting ex
Recently at a Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani media meeting when Katrina was asked to wish Ash happy birthday on camera, she refused and said, “Ranbir has done it.” She then rushed off to the vanity van visibly angry. Salman and Ash broke up more than seven years back but his current girlfriend still can’t stand his ex’s name. Interesting!

Ash: the arrogant senior
Sonam never realized what she had done when she said at a press conference that she would walk the red carpet at Cannes with Ash as the L’Oreal ambassador. Sonam, who always admired Ash, was shocked to find out that Ash had put her foot down and L’Oreal had promptly dropped the younger actress from the red carpet. A source said, “Sonam can’t understand why Ash is so upset with her and is bitching about her everywhere.”

The scheming co-star
Ash and Abhi had been working together for a long time, but when Ash saw that things were brewing between Rani and Abhishek, she immediately stepped in and turned the wind in her favour. She just couldn’t let go off the chance to become the Bachchan bahu, so since then heartbroken Rani has been grappling with her career.

Preity VS Ash

Who is ahead in the item number race?

Preity Zinta’s first EVER item number, Happening in Main Aur Mrs Khanna, is supposed to have been kept as a big surprise for her fans. But teasers of the song are out and tongues are wagging about how close it is to Aishwarya Rai’s stunning Kajra Re.

From the background to Preity’s costume, hairstyle and even dance moves, everything seems to have been copied. (Wonder how choreographer Farah Khan will react to this, since Kajra Re was conceptualised by rival Vaibhabi Merchant?!)

Preity and Ash were best friends until last year’s Unforgettable tour, which soured things between the two A-listers. Preity reportedly told her friends that Ash and the Bachchans grabbed all the limelight and treated her like a glorified extra on tour. Perhaps the bubbly Ms Zinta is now trying to prove that if Ash could re-invent herself with an item number, so could she.

Or is Preity simply trying to be one up on ex-friend-now-rival Rani Mukherji, whose svelte looks in Dil Bole Hadippa is the talk of town?

Alike!
1 Preity’s gold dotted ghagra is very similar to Aishwarya’s ghagra in Kajra Re.
2 Her long loose hair looks exactly like Ash’s in the song.
3 Preity’s also done plenty of Kajra Re jhatkas and matkas.

Different!
1 Ash was sizzling in the song, Preity is looking cute. At most.
2 Ash had Amitabh and Abhishek for company and Preity has Sohail with her. (EEEKS!)
3 Ash’s body was far more toned; Preity’s is definitely more curvy.

Preity Zinta shoots for a song in Dubai

It’ll be a special part of Salman-Kareena film

Preity Zinta will be seen in a special song in UTV and Sohail Khan Production's upcoming film "Main Aur Mrs Khanna", starring Salman Khan and Kareena Kapoor.

"Preity was especially made to travel to Dubai for a day to shoot for the song. The production team had to spend a fortune on that single day’s outdoor shoot as director Prem Soni required a huge open air theatre for the song which they managed to get in Dubai," said a source.

"When Preity and director Prem Soni were thinking of who could choreograph the song, they could only think of one person, which was Farah Khan. Preity was very keen that Farah choreographed the song and Prem Soni had always wanted to work with her too. When Farah agreed to do the song both Priety and Prem Soni were very happy," added the source.

Preity had a 10-day rehersal with Farah Khan before she shot for the song. She rehearsed for 3 hours every day. She also was on a special diet and went through strict workout sessions to be in shape for the song

Preity is the latest Bollywood star on Twitter

An impersonator had been Twittering on her behalf

picture: ITP Image

Even though she does not like being on any of the social networking websites, Preity Zinta has been forced to get on Twitter because of the impersonator faking her profile.

Preity was informed about her fake profile on Twitter by a friend. She was very upset with it as the person was cheating a lot of her true fans.

In her first post on Twitter, she wrote, “Just wanted to see for myself that someone was impersonating me. I felt that people were being cheated by a fake me! The fake was using various quotes of mine from the old interviews. Ask her or him to show the dimple and then we shall see.”

Karan Johar and Riteish Deshmukh gave Preity a warm welcome on Twitter. She already has 1,40,000 followers, thanks to the fake!

Film on don Haji Mastan in trouble

Ajay Devgn starrer facing multiple problems

Ajay Devgn is playing Haji Mastan in 'Once Upon A Time In Mumbai'

picture: ITP Image

Milan Luthria’s ambitious film “Once Upon A Time In Mumbai”, based on the life of underworld don Haji Mastan and his relationship with an actress, has been postponed indefinitely.

The film stars Ajay Devgn, Kangana Ranaut, Emraan Hashmi and Prachi Desai in the lead.

All is said to be not well with the film. Apparently Ajay is not happy with the way the script has shaped up and he is now demanding certain changes to be made.

Also the film’s budget has gone overboard and producer Ekta Kapoor is not happy with that. This has caused a rift between director Milan Luthria and Ekta Kapoor.

As the shooting schedule has also been cancelled, dates of the stars have been wasted.

Sussanne Roshan’s show of love for Hrithik

She blew kisses at him from the ramp

Sussanne, Farah and Genelia at the Couture Week on Oct 12

picture: Viral Bhayani

Together they make a picture perfect couple and are very much in love. This was proved when Sussanne Khan blew kisses at Hrithik Roshan while she sashayed down the ramp at the inaugural show of HDIL India Couture Week for her sister and jewellery designer Farah Khan-Ali.

The show kicked off in Mumbai late Monday (Oct 12) night.

Contrary to recent rumours that talked about the couple's split because of Hrithik's equation with his co-star Barbara Mori in the upcoming film "Kites", the duo looked very much together.

Dressed in an off-shoulder black gown by designer duo Gauri-Nainika, Sussanne's entry on the ramp was acknowledged by hooting and clapping by an array of Bollywood stars including her husband and her brother Zayed Khan.

While Hrithik kept looking at her and clapped continuously while she was on the ramp, Sussanne acknowledged him by blowing a kiss and turning her head towards him till she finished the walk.

The surprise element of the show was Bollywood actress Genelia D'Souza who walked the ramp for Farah Khan-Ali.

The front row had several Bollywood stars such as Dimple Kapadia, Boney Kapoor, Twinkle Khanna, Sanjay Kapoor, Raveena Tandon, Dia Mirza, Zayed Khan and Karan Johar.

This is the first time that HDIL-ICW had a high-end jewellery show that featured four jewellery designers - Devaunshi Mehta, Farah Khan, Queenie Dhody and Maheep Kapoor - who came out with their dazzling collections.

After the show Zayed Khan told IANS that it was a wonderful feeling to have both his sisters walk the ramp.

"It feels good when you watch your sisters walk hand in hand on the ramp. Looking at Farah's collection, all I can say is that she is the best," he said.

‘Kites’ release may be postponed to next year

t will mark Hrithik’s tenth year as a superstar

The release of Hrithik Roshan’s much talked about film “Kites” may be postponed to next year.

The film, also starring Barbara Mori and Kangana Ranaut, will probably now release on January 15, 2010 and not December 18, 2009 as scheduled.

January 2010 marks the tenth anniversary of Hrithik’s hit debut film “Kaho Na Pyaar Hai”.

According to sources, the Roshans want to release “Kites”, which is a mega film and will also see Hrithik’s entry into international market, as part of the tenth anniversary celebrations of KNPH. It will also mark Hrithik’s tenth year as a superstar.

However, the final decision on the release date will be taken in September.

“Kites background score of global standard”

But composer Sulaiman Merchant refuses to divulge details

Known for their edgy and racy background scores in Dhoom 2, Chak De! India and Krrish, music composers Salim and Sulaiman Merchant are now looking forward to their next creation Kites, which they promise matches international standards.

"We are eagerly waiting and looking forward to the release of the film Kites where we have worked on the background score. We have given our best and all I can say is that it truly matches international standards," Sulaiman told IANS over phone from Mumbai.

The composer, however, refused to divulge more details about the score.

Kites, which is expected to release in January next year, is directed by Anurag Basu and produced by Rakesh Roshan. The film stars Hrithik Roshan, Mexican actress Barbara Mori and Kangna Ranaut. Set in Las Vegas, it is said to be a romantic thriller that revolves around a Salsa dance teacher, played by Hrithik.

Salim-Sulaiman, who have been in the industry for over a decade now, started out with background scores and graduated to composing songs. They have given chartbusters for successful movies like Fashion and Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, among others.

They might be successfully juggling between both jobs, but what remains their first love?

"Definitely background score. It is an art that we are perfecting. It's a very challenging job and we are trying to master it," said Sulaiman.

"But it's true that music direction brings you recognition. We have to agree that India is a song and dance nation and the main focus has always been on songs in a film," he added.

At the same time, the composer is happy that people are now slowly realising the need of having a good background score in a film.

"Now a lot of people are understanding the importance of background score. Today, we have directors who call us to book our dates three months in advance for their projects. It feels nice," said Sulaiman.

Apart from Kites, the composers have various big budget films in their kitty including Teen Patti, Pyaar Impossible and Kurbaan.

Hrithik ditches Manish Malhotra’s film

Designer-turned-director looking for new hero

picture: Viral Bhayani

Hrithik Roshan has reportedly backed out of designer Manish Malhotra’s debut film as a director saying he has no dates as he has to start work on his home production “Krissh 2”.

Manish’s danced-based film was to be produced by Karan Johar. It deals with a dance group and Hrithik was to play the lead role.

The movie was to go on the floors this year but then Hrithik cited date problems Manish decided to wait and start the film next year. But with Hrithik completely backing out of the project, an upset Manish is left with no option but to search for the lead all over again.

Katrina gets Rs. 2 crore for New Year’s Eve performance

It’s the highest ever for an actress

A five-star hotel in Mumbai has roped in Katrina Kaif for Rs. 2 crore to perform at its New Year’s Eve party.

This is the highest amount an actress has ever been paid to perform at a single show.

Mallika Sherawat started the trend when she took Rs. 90 lakh two years ago for such a performance. Bipasha continued the trend last year.

This year the hotel was in two minds about Katrina and Deepika, but finally zeroed in on Katrina.

Since Deepika has just four films in her kitty with not too many hit songs, except “Om Shanti Om”, the hotel decided on Katrina.

Katrina will be performing on the hit numbers from her films “Singh is Kinng”, “Partner”, “Welcome” and “Maine Pyaar Kyon Kiya”.

Preity studying at Harvard Business School

My class is full of wonderful people, she says

picture: ITP Image

From Bollwyood to Harvard university - actress Preity Zinta is certainly going places! The actress says she's having a great time there and yes... she's also learning.

Preity is doing a short executive course in negotiating and deal-making at the Harvard Business School in the US.

"I am having such a good time here. No one judges me here or asks me stupid questions and there are no pretensions. Finally I breathe," Preity posted on her Twitter page.

"My class is full of wonderful people from all over the world and I am learning so much from all of them," she added.

In her latest post, Preity mentioned that she had a major assignment on mergers and acquisitions.

The actress also said that she is leading a disciplined life as she wraps up her day and hits the bed by 11:15 p.m.

'Blue' leading among Diwali releases

Film made around Rs.51 crore gross in its opening weekend

The much-awaited and much-hyped movies "Blue" and "All The Best" that released Friday on Diwali eve have set the cash registers ringing while co-release "Main Aurr Mrs.Khanna" has proven to be a damp squib. The contents of all three films has, however, been panned in general by both audiences and critics.

"The content for all the three movies is not worth it. It's just because of the buzz that the three got a good initial with 'Blue' going strong at 80 percent followed by 'All The Best' and 'Main Aurr Mrs.Khanna' at 50 and 30 per cent respectively," Amit Awasthi, manager (programming and operations) of Spice Cinemas at Noida, told IANS.

"The housefulls though have been only for 'Blue'. The films will now see a major fall, as the advance booking is already over and it is only the current sale now," he added.

Yogesh Raizada, corporate head, Wave Cinemas, echoed the same, saying: "All three movies have seen an initial close to 95 percent. While 'Blue' is on top because of the stunts and glamour, 'All The Best' brought audiences for its comedy quotient. 'Main Aurr...' is just a simple love story. The hype is now almost over and audiences are not going to watch more than one movie a week."

Directorial debut of Anthony D'Souza, "Blue" was extensively promoted as the country's first underwater film and the most expensive too with an approximate budget of around Rs.80 crore. The film has managed to make around Rs.51 crore gross in its opening weekend.

Produced by Shree Ashtavinayak Cine Vision Ltd, it stars Askhay Kumar, Sanjay Dutt, Lara Dutta and Zayed Khan. Katrina Kaif along with Australian pop princess Kylie Minogue appear in a cameo in the film.

"All The Best", on the other hand, is a comedy directed by Rohit Shetty and stars Ajay Devgn, Bipasha Basu, Sanjay Dutt, Fardeen Khan, and Mugdha Godse. Made at a budget of around Rs.40 crore, the film is produced by Ajay and released with around 1250 prints worldwide. It has brought in close to Rs.10 crore net.

"Main Aurr Mrs.Khanna" is a co-production of Sohail Khan Productions and Ronnie Screwvala and distributed by UTV Motion Pictures. Made at a budget of around Rs.40 crore, it released with around 1,200 prints worldwide but could make only Rs.4 crore net.

Helmed by debutant director Prem Soni, the romantic drama stars Salman Khan and Kareena Kapoor in the lead with Sohail in a pivotal role.

PVR Cinemas that also distributed "Blue" in North India is still keeping fingers crossed for the movie.

"The reactions for all three have been very encouraging but the crowd for 'Blue' was terrific. People came in hordes for the movie and we are hoping it to still go strong," said a source from the multiplex chain.

An insider from Movietime cinemas, Pitampura, added: "All our shows are going jam packed for 'Blue' even today. 'All The Best' is also going strong but 'Main Aurr...' is not going down too well with senior citizens and middle aged group."

The three movies still have an extra week, as the following week is low on buzz with films like "Bal Ganesh 2" and "Fruit & Nut" before the succeeding week rolls out another of the two much-awaited projects, "Aladin" and "London Dreams", on Oct 30.

Akshay chosen an Olympics ambassador

He’s one of 15 celebrities invited to Canada

Akshay Kumar loves sports and also has Canadian nationality. Now, he is going to be the Indian ambassador for the Olympic Winter Games 2010, being held in Vancouver, Canada.

Only 15 International celebrities have been invited to Canada to participate in carrying the Olympic Torch, and one of them is Akshay.

At a high power lunch for 50 CEO’s of Prominent Tourism Companies, the Canadian PM will introduce Akshay Kumar as the sole torch bearer from India for the Winter Olympics.

Akshay will present the Canadian PM Steven Harper with a token of appreciation and also speak on the occasion.

Marriage rumours anger Katrina

She’s ready to support police action against fake husband

picture: ITP Image

Katrina Kaif is not taking rumours of her marriage with an Indore-based politician in good humour. She says people should have fun, but within limits.

"The police have already issued a statement saying that it is utter rubbish and the police are going to arrest him and serve notice. I hope they do. I agree doing it in fun is one thing but there should be a limit," Katrina told reporters in New Delhi.

"People shouldn't cross the line. I will definitely support the police' decision to penalise the person," she added.

The news came in effect after a marriage certificate approved by the Indore Municipal Corporation came to surface. It claimed that the 24-year-old is married to local Bharatiya Janata Party member Ramesh Mendola since Dec 2, 2008.

The certificate was also registered with the Indore civic body on Dec 11 that year. The local Municipal Corporation however retaliated that the certificate was fake and a complaint will be lodged with the police.

The actress was in the capital to launch Veet's Ready-To-Use Wax Strips. Katrina is the brand ambassador of the brand.

Katrina, who features in recently released hit "Ajab Prem Ki Ghajab Kahani", also insisted: "I'm confident enough to know what I am speaking."

Singer Anushka debuts as actress

Her 'Dulha Mil Gaya' slated for Dec 11 release

picture: Viral Bhayani

Pop star-turned-VJ Anushka Manchanda is all set to make her acting debut now with comedy "Dulha Mil Gaya", which stars superstar Shah Rukh Khan, Sushmita Sen and Fardeen Khan.

The 24-year-old has sung three songs in the film and is more excited about her music career than acting.

"It's not much...maybe a scene or two...but the amount of fun I had doing it was superb. I have three songs in the film and I am more excited about that than anything else as I had a blast doing them and had a great time singing," Anushka told IANS.

"Acting etc is fun and if something like that happens, I'll do it but I am very clear that my main focus right now is my music. I have age on my side; so if I can do other things I'd like to," said Anushka, who has sung in films like "Golmaal" and "Chandni Chowk To China".

The multi-starrer is slated for a Dec 11 release.

Amrita Rao, Sayali, Boman join Children's Day celebrations

They joined underprivileged kids in 'Flight of Fantasy'

Sayali Bhagat, Boman Irani and Amrita Rao joined in a 'Flight of Fantasy' for underprivileged children and a trip for youngsters at Jet Airlines' Flight Simulator on Nov 14 to mark Children's Day.

A group of 90 children travelled in an hour long flight over and around Mumbai, accompanied by Sayali who joined the fun on board.

The airline also organised an educational trip for youngsters to experience its Flight Simulator in Mumbai.

The children were accompanied by Boman and Amrita as they enjoyed the simulated experience of flying a Boeing 777 and Airbus A-330 aircraft.

Amitabh Bachchan sings peace song

Album is a comment on global terrorism

picture: Getty Images

Amitabh Bachchan has lent his voice to quite a few film songs but now the megastar is singing along with classical maestro Rashid Khan for an album dedicated to the victims of the 26/11 terror attacks on Mumbai last year.

"Yes, Rashid Khan and I have sung together. The system of recording these days allows a lot of freedom to sing how one is comfortable. That's how I managed it," said Amitabh.

Titled "Sound Of Peace", the project has been helmed by composer Aadesh Shrivastava.

Efforts are now on to get Ashutosh Gowarikar to direct a video that will feature the Big B, Rashid Khan and Aadesh Shrivastava. Footage from the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai will be interspersed with scenes from 9/11 in the US and the London subway bombings of 2005.

Said Aadesh: "We initially planned to make this a Hindi-Urdu album in memory of the 26/11 victims. But we've now expanded it into a comment on global terrorism. Mr. Bachchan is now in the process of recording an English version of the peace song."

Karisma Kapoor is not a big fan of yoga

Pregnant actress prefers gym and walking

picture: ITP Image

Her younger sister Kareena is known for her yoga obsession, but actress Karisma Kapoor, who is a mother of one and expecting a second, says she prefers the "gym and a walk" unlike her sibling.

"Kareena is the yoga endorser (of our family). She gets after us to do yoga. But I am not so much into yoga as she is. She has really taken to it and it's a great form of exercise but I prefer the gym," Karisma told IANS.

"I live a healthy lifestyle. I eat well, but I exercise and do everything in moderation. I go to the gym or for a walk and that's it for me," she added.

Asked about her comments on Kareena's much-hyped size-zero figure, the 35-year-old asserted: "I don't think there's any size zero. I genuinely feel that Kareena just lost all her baby fat. She made herself fit and got the cuts that her body has. She just worked at getting that and has been able to bring that out."

Karisma doesn't know how to cook

Pregnant actress hoping to work again

Karisma Kapoor, a self-confessed foodie who is expecting her second child, confesses that she doesn't know how to cook.

"I don't know how to cook. I just know how to eat everything, as I love food. I can only make tea, coffee and omelettes," Karisma told IANS.

The actress has a four-year-old daughter with businessman husband Sanjay Kapur and says she loves good food but she is one of those actresses who has always flaunted a svelte figure.

Asked if she was into dieting, the 35-year-old said: "I am not into exhaustive drastic dieting or anything."

The actress, who took a sabbatical from the big screen after her wedding in 2003, hopes to have a second innings in the film world in future.

"I am hoping to get back to work and reach out to audiences," she said.

Rahman says Kolkata appreciates his music best

Composer presented delightful cocktail of music at Nov 14 concert

picture: Getty Images

Oscar-winning composer A.R. Rahman captivated thousands in Kolkata with his mellifluous tunes comprising hip-hop, funk and jazz.

A huge audience at the Salt Lake stadium on Nov 14 was left yearning for more after the three-hour live "Jai Ho" concert of the maestro who presented a delightful cocktail of hard rock, rap and Arabian music.

Oriental music fused with western as Rahman unfolded his wide range of compositions with singers like Hariharan and Sadhana Sargam.

Waving an invisible magic wand, Rahman effortlessly co-ordinated the show at various times fiddling with the key-board, piano and the harmonium, with percussionist Shivamani giving him admirable support.

"Yeh haseen wadiyan yeh khula aasmaan", the immortal song from "Roja" and hit compositions from "Bombay" - "Kehna hai kya" and "Tuhi re" - saw Rahman singing a few lines with the vocalists.

Sadhana presented "Jiya jale jaan jale" on the stage that looked resplendent in a laser background.

With Rahman on harmonium, "Khwajaji Khwajaji" from "Jodhaa Akbar" and "Arziyan" left the audience spellbound with their soulful strains.

Attired in a red Sherwani, Rahman repeatedly wooed the crowd during the performance.

"In Los Angeles, when somebody asked me which audience appreciated your music the best, I could only think of Kolkata," said Rehman who was performing in the city after six years.

Recalling his past experience Kolkata, he said: "If I have to hug each one of you, it would take me two years but I would still do that."

Shamita Shetty wants a man like brother-in-law

She says Shilpa’s husband is ‘perfect’

Shamita with

picture: Getty Images

Actress Shamita Shetty, who has just opted out of TV reality show "Bigg Boss", is elated about elder sister Shilpa marrying London-based businessman Raj Kundra Nov 22 and says she also wants a "perfect man" like her brother-in-law to-be.

"Raj is just so absolutely wonderful. He is so calm, intelligent and good-looking. There could be no one better than him for Shilpa. He is just so perfect. I also want a man like him in my life," Shamita told IANS over phone from Mumbai.

The 29-year-old actress was until now a part of the third season of TV channel Colors' reality show "Bigg Boss" and came to know of Shilpa's engagement only a week back. She has now taken a voluntary exit from the show to be able to be with her sister for her last few days at home. The episode was aired on Saturday (Nov 14).

Shamita said: "It feels fantastic to be out. I am just so excited about Shilpa's wedding. Oh my god! She is getting married. I want to go home, cry, hug and chat with her. She has sent me a picture of her engagement ring on my Blackberry but it's very hazy. So can't wait to see that.

"We tell each other everything, so I know how difficult it must have been for her to get engaged without me around. But since I got to know about her wedding date, I wanted to be with her no matter what. Family definitely comes first for me."

Shamita was also worried about the clothes she would wear for the wedding functions, but to her surprise, her elder sister had already taken care of it all.

"I was so worried about who will stitch my clothes within 10 days and how I will manage it all. But I just spoke to Shilpa and she said she has organised a few options for me. So I'm very happy that I don't have to start planning from scratch," she said.

Shamita says her respect for Shilpa, who won "Celebrity Big Brother", the international version of the show in 2007 after facing racist remarks, has risen by leaps and bounds after her stint in "Bigg Boss".

"I have begun to respect Shilpa so much more. I haven't even faced 50 percent of what she must have faced. She was in a different country, with people from different cultures - it must have been hugely different. I can't even imagine how she went through all that," she said.

As for her own stay in the "Bigg Boss" house, Shamita said: "It feels great and fantastic that I wasn't asked to leave. But I felt sad that I had to leave the house. My stay was pretty okay - but I didn't have an option. I had to leave for Shilpa's wedding."

She is also happy about getting three "really good friends" in the form of Tanaaz Currim, Bakhtiyaar Irani and Aditi Govitrikar. But when asked to name the most conniving contestant, she said diplomatically: "I won't take any names and I don't want to be judgmental."

"Bigg Boss" has 13 celebrities locked up inside a secluded house for 84 days and kept under constant camera surveillance without any contact with the outside world.

My backless poster is not vulgar

Kareena Kapoor says there is nothing "vulgar" about her backless shot being used for the publicity posters of forthcoming release "Kurbaan", an intense thriller about terrorism. In fact, she says, it subtly reveals a lot about the story.

"This shot of me in a backless posture and Saif with a wound on his chest tell so much about the film's theme," Kareena told IANS.

"There is love, passion and violence - all combined in here and what better way than to show it through a single still? You too would agree that there is nothing sleazy or vulgar about it. Knowing the sensibilities of Karan Johar (producer) and Rensil D'Silva (director), that's the least one could have expected," she added.

Kareena said that after Geet in "Jab We Met", her character of Avantika in "Kurbaan" will make people sit up and take notice.

"The girl's role has a lot of edge in 'Kurbaan', something which starts becoming more and more visible as the film unfolds. In any case the film is not one of those cliched love stories. Every character has quite a few layers to it and Avantika, the character I play, is no exception. She is quite pivotal to 'Kurbaan'," she said.

Kareena plays a professor in "Kurbaan" who gets married to her colleague, played by Saif Ali Khan. They move to New York after marriage, but as a series of events unfold she finds herself into a vortex of danger and intrigue.

She further realises that she is a pawn in a huge game and no one could be trusted.

"What made this role special is the fact that I play this young beautiful professor who is quite normal. She reacts to terrorism for the first time and life is never the same again for her," she said.

"Actually if you ask me, then technically 'Kurbaan' is the story of this girl. She is the light of the screen. I am sure people will cry with Avantika...so strong is her characterisation," the actress said.

After "Jab We Met", Kareena was seen in "Main Aurr Mrs Khanna", "Kambakkht Ishq", "Tashan" and "Golmaal Returns". And except "Golmaal Returns", none of the films did well at the box office.

Kareena is delighted about the prospects of audiences seeing her in a different light after the film and says it is not a frothy romance drama.

"'Kurbaan' has a deep-rooted love story to it, but it is not a frothy romantic film that we are time and again exposed to. The love story is much deeper here. There is a definite meaning, purpose and reason to it. Also, the film is quite powerful in its own way since it's the voice of moderate Islam," she said.

The film, which also stars Vivek Oberoi, Om Puri, Kirron Kher and Dia Mirza, is releasing Nov 20.

'3 Idiots' team to chat with fans online

Aamir Khan excels at innovative promotion for his films and this time the star has taken the internet route to pitch his forthcoming film "3 Idiots" - where the film's star cast will video chat with fans on the web.

Film producer Vidhu Vinod Chopra, director Rajkumar Hirani, other technicians and actors, including Kareena Kapoor, Sharman Joshi, R. Madhavan and Boman Irani alongside Aamir, will have a visual chat with the masses, after releasing the music of the film on the internet.

"We are launching the music of '3i' ('Three Idiots') on the 9th of November, but for the first time this is happening on the (Inter)net... So the plan is to release the music at 11 a.m. and then all of us are in private chat rooms with you (fans) for an hour," Aamir posted on his blog on Saturday.

"When I say all of us, I mean Vinod Chopra, Raju Hirani, Kareena, Maddy (R.Madhavan), Sharman, Boman, the music director Shantanu, the lyricist Swanand, the singers Shaan, Shreya (Ghoshal), Suraj, and me... The chat is going to be a video chat as well and not only text," he added.

The website for the music launch and chat is www.idiotsacademy.com.

Based on Chetan Bhagat's bestseller "Five Point Someone", the movie is releasing on Dec 25.

Aamir Khan excels at innovative promotion for his films and this time the star has taken the internet route to pitch his forthcoming film "3 Idiots" - where the film's star cast will video chat with fans on the web.

Film producer Vidhu Vinod Chopra, director Rajkumar Hirani, other technicians and actors, including Kareena Kapoor, Sharman Joshi, R. Madhavan and Boman Irani alongside Aamir, will have a visual chat with the masses, after releasing the music of the film on the internet.

"We are launching the music of '3i' ('Three Idiots') on the 9th of November, but for the first time this is happening on the (Inter)net... So the plan is to release the music at 11 a.m. and then all of us are in private chat rooms with you (fans) for an hour," Aamir posted on his blog on Saturday.

"When I say all of us, I mean Vinod Chopra, Raju Hirani, Kareena, Maddy (R.Madhavan), Sharman, Boman, the music director Shantanu, the lyricist Swanand, the singers Shaan, Shreya (Ghoshal), Suraj, and me... The chat is going to be a video chat as well and not only text," he added.

The website for the music launch and chat is www.idiotsacademy.com.

Based on Chetan Bhagat's bestseller "Five Point Someone", the movie is releasing on Dec 25.

'3 Idiots' (Music Review)

Music director: Shantanu Moitra

Lyricist: Swanand Kirkire

Singers: Sonu Nigam, Swanand Kirkire, Shaan, Shreya Ghosal, Shantanu Moitra and Suraj Jagan

It's a soundtrack that's sure to click. Shantanu Moitra, who had scored the music for Rajkumar Hirani's "Lage Raho Munnabhai", returns with "3 Idiots" and has churned out songs that are catchy, different and high on energy.

The much-awaited film, which stars Aamir Khan, Kareena Kapoor, R. Madhavan and Sharman Joshi, has five original numbers and two remixes.

The soundtrack opens with "All Izz Well", a fun campus song that is filled with whistles in the background. Crooned by Sonu Nigam, Swanand Kirkire and Shaan, the catchy song is already doing the rounds of music channels and is sure to be a chartbuster.

The song also has a remix version that has more beats.

Next is "Zoobi doobi", the only song with a female voice. Sung by Shreya Ghoshal with ample support from Sonu Nigam, the track has a retro feel. It is a melodious number that grows on you.

"Zoobi doobi" too has a remix version with more contemporary sounds.

Then comes "Behti hawa sa tha woh" that has Shaan and Shantanu Moitra behind the mike. It has a long prelude and seems to be a situational track. The poignant, slow number has soft musical backing and is very appealing.

Up next is "Give me some sunshine" that includes dialogues by Sharman Joshi and vocals by Suraj Jagan. The song is an unplugged version and will appeal to the younger generation mainly because of the composition and the song's rebel attitude.

The album offers a very nice song in "Jaane nahin denge" sung by Sonu Nigam. It gets an edge with a sudden increase in tempo during the course of the song. There is minimal orchestration and focus on vocals. The lyrics are raw and intense.

On the whole, the album is a good mix of slow and fast-paced songs. Shantanu Moitra has scored quality music that has melody and generates lots of interest.

'Tum Mile' (Movie Review)

Cast: Emraan Hashmi, Soha Ali Khan

Director: Kunal Deshmukh

The Mahesh Bhatt formula of live-in relationships, splintered alliances, disastrous adventures in the big bad city and corruption in hyped places, has completely run out of steam with "Tum Mile".

A pointless saga of two soggy souls caught in Mumbai's rains who know one another long enough to know they are incompatible.

"Arth" with no worth.

"Tum Mile" is a long, pointless and rambling look at a ruptured relationship between a working woman and a not-so-successful self-styled artist who is ceaselessly sullen about god knows what.

If we go back to the Bhatts' last celluloid sojourn "Jashnn", the struggling musician-hero in that film was no different from the grappling artist in "Tum Mile". They both hate the world for being more successful than they.

Emraan Hashmi attempts to infuse his trite and jaded character with a fair amount of conviction. And Soha Ali Khan, playing his trying-hard-to-cope live-in mate, comes out with a few moments which transcend the banal script. The script is too bad and direction betrays an utter lack of newness and synergy in exposing the underbelly of a contemporary relationship crumbling under competitive pressures.

Incidentally, Soha lives alone in a sprawling mansion in Cape Town just waiting for the loser-hero to move in. Her father drops in once a month. Where is he the rest of the time? Probably researching on how to be a tycoon with a daughter who shouldn't be left alone.

Director Kunal Deshmukh's earlier film "Jannat" traversed the same man-woman territory with far more sensitivity. The screenplay in "Tum Mile" allows the director little room to navigate his imagination in and outside and the marital domain.

The whole blend of climatic and marital disaster falls apart very quickly. The much-hyped scenes replicating Mumbai's monsoonal deluge of July 26, 2005 are clumsily conceived and executed with cardboard characters carrying out their soggy karma in a watered-down waste-land.

The waist-deep drama just about sinks to a no-redemption level in a sequence where the director copies a whole sequence from James Cameron's "Titanic" with a rush of lethal water chasing the couple in a water-tight room.

It's not just Soha and Emraan who get claustrophobic. The feeling of being trapped in a no-win situation never leaves the audience. Most of the time the narrative plods along without energy or drive.

One sincerely hopes Mahesh Bhatt was just going through a bad-hair day while putting together this whiny tale of two people who deserve only one another.

They are so dreadfully boring from the outside. One hopes they find one another slightly more inspiring.

Ranbir Kapoor spends time with kids in hospital

On the occasion of Children's Day actor Ranbir Kapoor spent time narrating stories and singing for the children admitted at a hospital in Mumbai.

"It's my pleasure to be here. They actually called my mother as I was travelling. When I heard about it, I didn't want to miss it," said Ranbir while interacting with kids admitted at the Hinduja Hospital.

Ranbir sang the title song of his film "Bachna Ae Haseeno" and even danced with the kids.

He also sat down with the kids and read out from "Jungle Book".

Jaideep Sahni, writer of "Chak De! India" and "Khosla Ka Ghosla" also sat and talked to the kids for a while.

Ekta Kapoor and Aftab Shivdasani, who couldn't make it for the interaction, sent a set of story books for the children.

Vijay Gupta, deputy director, marketing of Hinduja Hospital said: "From now onwards we will organise such sessions regularly in the hospital."

Vidya would like a son like Abhishek

Vidya Balan, who plays Amitabh Bachchan's mother in "Paa", was so impressed by Abhishek's caring behaviour towards his father during the shooting that she confesses she would like to have a son like Abhishek in real life.

"I would prefer a son like Abhishek. I have seen him with his father on the sets... he was so nice to his father that I was touched," Vidya told reporters in Mumbai on Saturday (Nov 14).

Director R. Balakrishnan's "Paa" is an emotional story of a father-son relationship and Amitabh will be seen as Abhishek's 13-year-old son Auro who is suffering from a rare disease progeria, that accelerates ageing. The film releases on Dec 4.

"The film is all about Auro and all through the film there is a certain sensibility about Auro, but no sympathy is shown towards the 13