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BIPASHA'S ADVICE TO BROTHERS

Rakshabandhan has a special relationship with Bollywood inasmuch as a number of films have depicted the importance of this feature in Indian society by enacting scenes of rakhis being tied by sisters on their brothers' wrists to protect themselves from others. That's why many stars have called Rakshabandhan a rare occasion of love between a sister and her brother and also between two persons to protect the weaker among them. This year is relevant in this regard when new movies like 'Barsaat' and 'The Wife's Murder' are releasing on this auspicious day.

Bipasha Basu is starring in Sunil Darshan's 'Barsaat' starring her along with Bobby Deol and Priyanka Chopra. Very recently, Bipasha Basu who is deprived of a brother in her life, asked the audience present during her promotional gathering in New Delhi to buy cinema tickets of 'Barsaat' as gifts for their sisters. She recommended this as the movie is releasing on the day of Rashabandhan (Sisters' Day). She forgot to remind the audience about late Raj Kapoor's 'Barssat' (movie made as early as 1949) song "Humse Mile Tum Sanam Tumse Mile Hum Barssat Mein". Yes, she seems to have reserved this song for her boyfriend John Abraham!

Music launch of Reincarnation

Music launch of Reincarnation by Big B and SRK on August 18th 2005 at Taj President.

Fardeen meets the winners of Lux Bodywash

Fardeen meets the winners of Lux bodywash contest on august 17th.

THE REAL HERO

Down south, it is difficult to figure out where filmi fantasy ends and political partying starts. The Gods and Goddesses of the Silver Screen metamorphose into political netas in next to no time. Purutchi Thalaivis are conjured up at the drop of a hat. Film clubs translate into enormous vote banks. The following is that of the cult, the sacrifices-sometimes even suicidal---match up to Indiana Jones. This is a land of no awkward political questions asked. It's blind devotion or 'Off with his head'.

It takes somebody with enormous courage and logical prowess and not a little bit of fantasy to try and define this 'political 'culture', to even attempt to purvey the method in this madness. Director Shankar, by this score, would seem to be one of the most intrepid individuals around.

Shankar's 'Nayak', a remake of his own 'Mudavalan', harks to this Land of Politics-steeped in the corruption of every waking day, but not without hope and succor. For a Knight in Shining Armor can always be conjured up with the waving of a magic wand, riding in to clear all avarice and corruption in his path, distributing dhotis and political largesse.

Anil Kapoor it is who is our Young Galahad, who takes over the reigns of the Chief Minister's office for one day, teaches Amrish Puri how the job is done, and banishes the forces of darkness for evermore. The landscape is transformed, milk and honey is flowing, the corrupt stand transferred en masse, all needs are met. Sir Anil sure has achieved a lot in the course of one day. Learn a lesson, all you dithering netas who talk lack of infrastructure, manque of FDI, global recession, systemic corruption. This is how things can be organized. You only need to set your shoulder to the wheel. C'est facile!

Nobody took Shankar's earlier movies dubbed in Hindi ('Gentleman', 'Hum Se Hai Muqabala' and 'Hindustani') very seriously. And it is doubtful whether Nayak, his first shot at a Hindi film, will weigh in heavy. The director has re-shot 'Mudavalan' entirely but has stuck to the Tamil film's score. Shankar has also authored the story and screenplay, so if these are found convincing by anybody, only he can claim credit. But it is doubtful if anyone will vouch for his version of cinema verite.

Technically, the film has its plus points. K.V.Anand's photography is very pleasing to the eye and he shows some innovation in song picturisation. The camera movement catches one's attention. Kanal Kanan's action is thrilling but the length of the fight scenes mars it all.

Acting-wise, National Award winner Anil Kapoor puts in a lot of hard labor. But it is seen that whenever he does a superb job as a performer, the film fails at the box-office ('Eshwar', '1942--A Love Story', 'Pukar'). He gets into the skin of his character in this film, as does Amrish Puri. Sushmita Sen tries hard to bring in some glamour with her song sequence 'Shaka Laka Baby', but fails to impress. The music has been on the air for such a long time that it sounds stale.

When Anil Kapoor turns murderer

Are Indian film audiences ready for a hero who kills his screen wife, albeit accidentally?

In his latest production, Ram Gopal Varma has cast Anil Kapoor as a man who accidentally bumps off his wife.

Varma had actually planned My Wife's Murder as a two-film release with two separate endings with Anil killing his wife accidentally in one and deliberately in the other!

"Earlier we had another version of the same story where Anil actually and deliberately kills his nagging wife Suchitra Krishnamurthy. I planned to release My Wife's Murder as a two-film release called Galti Se  and Jaan Boojh Kar, giving the audiences two separate endings to go home with," Varma told IANS.

But protests from women's organisations in Hyderabad and other southern cities put an end to the plan.

"I guess at the end of the day, no matter how radical and unconventional I may pretend to be, I want to make films for an audience, and I can't go against what they want...and mind."

Would Anil as a spouse killer on the run work at the box office? There have been many instances of protagonists as killers, but to snuff out an annoying spouse - played by Shekhar Kapur's wife Suchitra who once upon a time played the leading lady opposite Ronit Roy in Jazbaat  and Shah Rukh Khan in Kabhi Han Kabhi Na - wouldn't be the ideal monsoon entertainer.

Realising this, Varma Productions is giving the film a low-key release. Sandwiched as it is between two Varma biggies - Sarkar and James - My Wife's Murder could be that modest in-between production that his assistants and prot間閑s specialise in.

"You'll be surprised. Everyone who has seen My Wife's Murder feels it's at par with the films I personally direct. Why do you presume that the products done by my assistants are space-fillers in my company? My Wife's Murder will prove the dissenters wrong. (Director) Jijy Philip has done an amazing job."

But will the moralists approve of a film that puts a cutting cleft into Hindi cinema's relations with marital issues?

"Cinema has always been tolerant of domestic discord. We all fight with our wives, but we don't murder them," says a middle-aged actor who has been in Varma's cinema earlier.

Will My Wife's Murder kick off a fuss among moralists?

Chuckles Varma: "I'm no stranger to controversy. My Bhoot caused palpitations among ghost-busters. D, they said, brought on a Dubai gangster's threatening call to me and Sarkar was supposed to be the life of (Shiv Sena supreme) Bal Thackeray.

"But My Wife's Murder is my only film that crystallises a very true yet unspecified social issue. What happens when spousal stress crosses all limits?"

ROLE NO BAR TO TABU'S TALENT

Tabu is one of those rare creatures in Hindi cinema for whom the role is everything. She has time and again taken on challenging, offbeat roles and carried them off with panache. One can recall countless instances of her histrionic talent: 'Virasat', 'Dil Pe Mat Le Yaar', 'Ghaat. She does not need flamboyant, fairy tale settings like the other actresses; she makes do with non-attractive roles rooted in everyday life.

In her new film, 'Chandni Bar', directed by newcomer Madhur Bhandarkar, she again gets into the skin of the character-a woman forced to take to the profession of a bargirl due to force of circumstance. Whatever the box office performance of 'Chandni Bar', it will be remembered for her brilliant acting.

At a time when big budget films like 'Yaadein', 'Lajja' and 'Nayak' have bitten the dust, extravagance it would seem does not suit the audience's palate. It is good in the circumstances to see filmmakers like R. Mohan come up with fresh ideas and different approaches to the treatment of a subject. 'Chandni Bar' scores on both these counts.

Mumtaz (Tabu) is a small town girl who loses everything in riots and is forced to make her way to Mumbai to eke out an existence. She arrives there with he uncle, who takes her to a beer bar and asks her to sign up as a dancer. She accepts the job, as she has no other option. Eventually she marries Pothya (Atul Kulkarni), a criminal who goes on to become a don. Pothya is, however, bumped off in an encounter because of betrayal by his own gang. So, Mumtaz is alone again, her task cut out-to raise her children as best she can despite the gang's harassment.

This film of R. Mohan's can be put on par with films like 'Satya' by Ramgopal Verma and 'Vaastav' by Mahesh Manjrekar for the authentic portrayal of real life situations. Madhur Bhandarkar has made a very crisp film that shakes you to the core. Though the film never sermonizes on the subject of bar girls in the country, but it travels the path and shows how difficult it is for a woman to fight for survival in society on her own. This film and one of Tabu's earlier films, 'Astitva', are similar in the sense that in both she is fighting for her existence. The difference, if any, is that in 'Astitva' the main protagonist was fighting for her existence inside the family while here the battle is outside the four walls of the home.

For Tabu, this film is another feather in her cap. Other outstanding performances from her came in 'Border', 'Takshak' and 'Hum Saath Saath Hain'. The use of some old hit songs in the film is very entertaining, though there is not much scope for music in the narration of this kind of story.

BHOOMIKA CHAWLA IS PROUD OF HER DEBUT OPPOSITE SALMAN

Many actresses have shifted from Bollywood to Tollywood even after producing so many hit movies in Bollywood. They have shifted from Mumbai to Kolkata even though they possessed good knowledge of Hindi. Some of them had started their filmi career from Tollywood itself. Aishwarya Rai and Preity Zinta were few of them. While Aishwarya Rai started her career with Mani Ratnam's Tamil super hit 'Iruwar', Preity Zinta had given a super hit film in the south before doing 'Dil Se'. Now, a new name has been added to this list. She is Bhoomika Chawla. She has been very famous in the South, and gave a number hits before moving to Bollywood. Her last two Tamil films 'Simhodri' and 'Okaddu' had changed the box office figure. Bhoomika's latest film is 'Tere Naam'. This is her debut Hindi movie and has been recently released .She has succeeded in wooing the Hindi audience too. She is very proud of pairing opposite Salman Khan in her debut Bollywood movie.

What's your background, Bhoomika?

My father has retired from the Army. My mother is a housewife. I am the youngest child in the family. My brother is a Major in Indian Army. Due to my father's job in the Army we never stayed at any place for long. That's how I got my education in different parts of the country. We came to Mumbai in 1997. I had been doing modeling since my school days. I did some ad fims too, besides acting in two Tamil and seven Telugu films.

Is 'Tere Naam' based on the true love story of Salman and Aishwarya?

According to my information, the film is based on the South's super hit 'Setu'. Only the director and the producer can throw more light on it.

How do you feel working with Satish Kaushik and Salman?

I saw Salman Khan's 'Maine Pyaar Kiya' when I was in sixth standard. Then I never imagined that I would ever do my debut Hindi film opposite Salman. He is a very nice person. During the shooting Salman helped me a lot. He never lost his temper and always came to my rescue. I am very proud that I have done my Bollywood debut opposite Salman. Director Satish Kaushik is very nice too. He never shouts at his cast.

Do you think that the audience will like the climax of 'Tere Naam'?

It's not necessary that every movie should have a happy end. 'Tere Naam' is a different movie. It is very close to the heart of the audience. I am sure that the audience will appreciate this trend. It is not the first film with this type of climax. Earlier too, 'Ek Duje Ke Liye', 'Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak' and 'Devdas' have had the similar ending.

Do you think that body exposure is vital for actresses?

I never believe in body exposure. I don't think that body exposure or doing bold scenes is essential for every actress. If someone wants to woo the audience, it can be achieved by wearing clothes too.

What is your forthcoming film?

At present I am acting in Boney Kapoor's forthcoming film 'Run' opposite Abhishek Bachchan.


Bhoomika Chawla


Salman Khan


[ Last edited by Gadis_Venus at 7-1-2006 02:44 PM ]

PRIYANKA CHOPRA OOZES CONFIDENCE FOR THE FUTURE

Just two films-old and already having major producers queuing up to sign her, Priyanka Chopra is the new rising star of Bollywood. The former Miss World, Priyanka Chopra is one of the hottest Bollywood actresses these days. Her enticing performance in 'Andaaz' has opened up the door of opportunities for this lissome lasso. Recently, we met her on the sets of the film 'Plan'. She talked confidently about herself and her films.

Why did you accept a kind of a 'bit' role in 'Hero' in spite of being the Miss World?

I agree that the role was small. It suited my stature though. I was noticed and applauded in 'Hero'. I was introduced appropriately, and it was a real big film. It was a big honor to be part of this film.

Your role in the film 'Andaaz' has been highly appreciated. How does it feel?

It feels great. When the film got released, I was in Switzerland. I was floored by the overwhelming response to the film in India. I have got many offers since then. It feels nice when people compliment and appreciate my work and my film is termed a hit.

Will you tell us something about your role in 'Plan'?

I play Rani, a bar dancer, in the film. Rani is a shabby looking tapori girl. She loves dancing in the bar. She is also in love with Sanjay Dutt who plays a don named Moosa.

How has your experience been with Sanjay Dutt?

Superb. Excellent. Great. Sanjay Dutt has been very co-operative throughout the shoot of the film. He is a great actor. I felt absolutely comfortable working with him and got to learn a lot from him.

Isha Koppikar walked out of Sanjay Gupta's 'Plan' claiming she didn't want to play second fiddle to you. Comment.

But Isha was not playing second fiddle to me. She had a hero opposite her. I feel she's lost out on a good project because it is a fabulous script. Why should she feel insecure about my presence when she got noticed with Khallas in 'Company'? Maybe she wasn't happy with her role. I can't say. She knows best. But I've done roles where I play second fiddle to someone. Yet I believe I've made the right choice.

Which are the other films that you are doing?

Other than 'Plan' I am doing Rajeev Rai's 'Asambhav' with Arjun Rampal and Naseeruddin Shah, 'Kismat' with Bobby Deol, 'Gandhi' with Sunny Deol under his home production, besides Feroz Nadiawala's next with Akshay Kumar to be directed by Vikram Bhatt. Kuku Kohli's 'Asar- The Impact' with Ajay Devgan and Dilip Kumar, Shyam Bajaj's next with Ajay and Suniel Shetty and K. C. Bokadia's 'Ek Haseena Ek Deewana' with Govinda. Other than these, I am also doing Sajid Nadiadwala's 'Mujhse Shaadi Karogi', which David Dhawan is directing and my co-stars in this film are Salman Khan and Akshay Kumar.

Tell us something about your role in 'Gandhi'?

In 'Gandhi' I play the role of a middle class girl who wears cotton sarees and simple khadi salwar kameez. It is a very challenging character, completely different from what I am. I never imagined doing such a role but I am very fortunate to receive such an offer.

When you'd entered the industry, you claimed you had to be a part of a camp to rule the roost. Do you still believe that?

I thought I needed to belong to a certain camp, but I couldn't. I can't do the same sort of films all the time. Today I'm working with so many different people - from Govinda, to the Deols, to Ajay Devgan. So, I can't be part of any single camp. I've realized I should concentrate on my career rather than massaging people's egos.

Do you think producers mostly offer you glamorous roles since you're a model?

I have no problems with that. But if somebody asks me to stay back for dinner, I wouldn't do that. I have a very glamorous role in 'Andaaz' but I made it clear that I would expose only to a limit. Suneel Darshan respected my decision.

How far would you go?

I don't mind kissing on screen, but I'm not comfortable with nudity. It has to go with my character and not be put there for the sake of it. If my role in 'Andaaz' had demanded me to kiss Akshay Kumar, I wouldn't have a problem with doing that. I think even the most saintly relationship involves kissing. Above all, by now all know the fact-sex sells most! I would do all this for the character I'm playing on screen. But on the sets, no one messes with me. It is important that I respect my producers and directors. But I am not on backslapping terms with them. That would be unhealthy. Today, thankfully because I'm a title-holder, I'm taken more seriously than other newcomers. There are many who are not as lucky as I am. But I cannot sell my soul for a role. If you have to sleep with somebody to get a role, it isn't worth it.

What are your hobbies?

I am very fond of reading and writing. I read fiction, non-fiction, and autobiographies. I write too. I have written a few poems. I became a great fan of Jawaharlal Nehru and Nelson Mandela after reading their autobiographies. They inspire me a lot. My greatest hobby is dancing, especially Kathak. Lara and I have been taking formal training in Kathak for 2/3 years.

Is it that Lara and you do not get along and that both compete with each other?

Of course, we do. We both look forward to give our best in everything we do, so I feel it's just that. We get along very well though. We have been learning Kathak from Pandit Veeru Kishan together, we have worked together, and we share the same professional background. We are not insecure beings. We both are very fond of each other and are really looking forward to work together again.

TUSSHAR OPTIMISTIC ABOUT BOUNCING BACK IN RECKONING

The surprise hit of 2001, 'Mujhe Kucch Kehna Hai', proved lucky for its debutant hero Tusshar Kapoor. But since then it's been downhill all the way at the box office for Tusshar because of the failure of 'Jeena Sirf Merre Liye', 'Kucch To Hai' and 'Yeh Dil'. Still, Tusshar Kapoor has filmmakers like Rajkumar Santoshi and Ram Gopal Varma signing him on, and he's confident his sincerity will pay dividends.

What was your childhood like?

My sister and I would spend time with my father especially when he was shooting in the South. Almost every weekend, we would be on his sets and we would watch him shooting. We were the favorites of his costars. We had a very normal childhood. Though Mom [Shobha Kapoor] was more involved in our lives for PTAs, etc, dad was there whenever he could make it. I remember he was there for a tug of war and was the chief guest at a function at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

Were you in awe of your father?

I was never in awe of any actor, even dad. I loved his movies like 'Waaris', 'Parwana' and 'Parichay'. Though I knew films were make-believe, they still affected us, especially where dad was concerned. I could never watch him being beaten up. If he was losing a battle, I wanted him to win. I wanted a happy ending and it would upset me a lot if that did not happen.

After 'MKKH', you've failed to make headway. What's gone wrong?

I'm not worried because I'm not the only one whose films have fared badly. In fact, compared to the fate of the films of other actors, I haven't done too badly. I don't mean to sound pompous but the fact is that all my films did manage to do a reasonable amount of business. The budgets of the films went haywire because everyone right from the heroines, directors and music directors were paid exorbitant amounts and I had to carry the burden of that, as I was the hero. Why is the hero always blamed for a flop? My films were to be low budget and had they been made within their stipulated price, they would have been successful. Having said that, I must add that I'm not on top of the world either. I'm willing to work hard and wait because I know I'll see better days soon.

The Telugu original of 'Yeh Dil', 'Nuvu Nenu' was a blockbuster and your film could not even get a decent initial. What went wrong?

'Yeh Dil' was a violent film yet it was promoted as a love story. But more than the failure of the film, I was disappointed with the director. He abandoned the film once it was complete. He took no interest in marketing the film and media hype was zilch. And worse, he didn't change the script to adapt it to the Hindi market. Once the film was released distributors were chopping off scenes to suit their whims without anyone's permission. 'Yeh Dil' was a low budget film and it would have done better had it been promoted well. It's not just a question of success or failure; this film left me with a bad taste.

A lot was expected from your home production 'Kucch To Hai' but it turned out to be a damp squib. Why?

Frankly, I had high hopes from 'Kucch To Hai'. The movie was well hyped. It was the first of its kind --a campus comedy thriller. I was sure it would make an impact, but the second half could have been better, more spine chilling. Also, we went grossly over budget especially because two schedules had to be totally scrapped. It turned out to be a losing proposition because of the limitless expenditure. 'Kucch To Hai' was our training ground; we learnt our lesson the hard way.

Do you suffer from bouts of insecurity when you see other actors doing better?

I've given a solo hit so why should I be insecure? If my other films haven't worked, many factors are to be blame. I've put in the same amount of effort in each of my films. My sincerity cannot be questioned. Yes, I do feel disappointed but that lasts only for a day. I concentrate on the reviews of my work and not the box office fate of the film. Criticism has been leveled against my films, not against me. I have learnt from it and am working on improving myself. I know that I still have a long way to go before I can call myself an established actor but there's no reason for me to feel insecure. I've just started.

Hasn't your replacing Akshaye Khanna in Rajkumar Santoshi's 'Khakee' has caused quite a stir?

I wasn't even aware that film was that hyped, nor did I for a moment think that my doing the film would create a controversy. The truth is that I heard about 'Khakee' only when I was approached for it. The name of the director and the mounting of the film attracted me to it even before I heard my role. I was told Akshaye's dates could not be adjusted so he'd opted out. There was nothing else to it. I fail to understand why such a big deal was made about my doing the film. Actors leaving project and actors replacing them happen all the time. You can't expect to be the first choice always. I wasn't the first choice for 'Mujhe Kuch Kehna Hai' either; other heroes had refused the film before I was approached. Now Rajji tells me that I was his original choice but things had got worked and Akshaye was signed. Ultimately it's all destinies; what's yours can't be taken away from you.

How true is the rumor linking you with Kareena Kapoor?

Weren't there rumors about Esha and someone else? True, we got all along very well. Similarly, today my name is being linked to Kareena. She's a fun loving girl. However, there is no romance between us. It may sound clich餠to you but the fact is that we're just good friends.

What changes do you see within yourself today?

The script is paramount for me. I am more disciplined. I like comedy and I think I'm pretty decent at dance. I am also working on my body now -- people have told me that is one area I need to improve. I am also spending a lot of time learning cinema -- what audiences want, how Indian cinema is changing. I plan to be picky, more careful, spend more time with my characters and be involved with the scripts.

How involved are you with Balaji Telefilms?

I have never watched any of the episodes of any of the serials. I go to the office only to inquire into the TRPs of the serials and ensure that my future is secure.



[ Last edited by Gadis_Venus at 25-8-2005 10:33 PM ]

KIM SHARMA IS LOOKING FORWARD TO HER NEXT RELEASE

As a model, Kim started young. She made her acting debut in Aditya Chopra's super hit 'Mohabbatein'. She has not looked back ever since. Later, we saw her in 'Tumse Accha Kaun Hai' and 'Kehta Hai Dil Bar Bar'. The pretty actress will be seen next in either Akbar Khan's 'Taj Mahal' or 'Nehle Pe Dehla', both of which are gearing up for an early release.

What's your role in 'Padmashree Laloo Prasad Yadav'?

I'm playing a very hot and slightly over the top girl, Rita. I really worked on the look for this film. Rita is a funny character. She has a sugar daddy played by Sharad Saxena. And, I have the hots for Suniel Shetty.

Surprising, one would have thought Mahesh Manjrekar is playing your sugar daddy!

No, not again!

Isn't that how your link-up with Mahesh started?

I'm not having an affair with Mahesh. He's my director, and that's no basis for an affair. I don't even have a scene with him in the film.

Your first statement sounds clich

The sad part is most people are never really honest about their personal lives, and when I, as an honest person, deny these allegations, I am , too, treated as the rest of the world! To date, I've been fairly open about my personal life. People should respect that and realize I wouldn't have hidden it if I were really having an affair with Mahesh. He's a sweet person and a great director. I've thoroughly enjoyed working with him, but that's where it begins and ends. I don't really know where all this is coming from. I just split with my steady boyfriend, and maybe people are just dying to link me up with someone. All this is a little embarrassing. Mahesh is married. I have a family to answer to. Initially, I'd just laugh off these rumors, but now it's getting on my nerves. It's getting more and more vicious and imaginative. If I were really seeing him, I'd have been very subtle in my interactions with him in public.

Why did you split with your boyfriend?

We were going steady for almost three years, and I have fairly good memories of the times spent together. But, we just drifted apart without realizing it. I've dealt with it, and I'm perfectly okay now.

Does your single status make you insecure in this industry?

People react to you on the basis of the vibes you send out. It has nothing to do with your status. Frankly, I've never had anyone making an unwanted pass at me! I don't know if it's because I had a boyfriend. I'll find out now. But, I'm not going to get a boyfriend just to give myself a feeling of security. That would be really stupid. I'd rather get a dog. That would be better.

Don't you have a soft spot for any of the industry guys?

No crushes, but I really like Govinda. He's my all-time favorite actor. Jackie Shroff is great too. I find Suniel Shetty a thorough gentleman.

Coming back to work, what are the other films you have?

I'm doing Akbar Khan's 'Taj Mahal', and 'Nehlle Pe Dehlla' with Sanjay Dutt, Saif and Bipasha. I'm also doing some South films. My Telugu film was a huge hit. They are planning to dub it in Hindi. I'd love to do these new age films. I'm waiting for a good one to come my way. That would be very interesting. I just watched Salma Hayek's 'Frida'. It's an amazing film. I'd love to play 'Frida'.

Don't you seem perfect for new age films rather than a typical Hindi film?

Don't say that! I really look good in Indian clothes.

Are you comfortable with your sex symbol image?

I enjoy that image, but it's a little frustrating to be typecast all the time. I'm wearing ethnic clothes in 'Taj Mahal'. People will change their impression about me after that.

How do you start your day food-wise?

I love to drink my morning tea first. Usually I skip my breakfast, but I make sure that before leaving home I drink a liter of water.

What do you eat during the day?

I have a heavy lunch and preferably a vegetarian one. I eat everything from dal, chappati, and sabji to lots of green salads. At 6.30 p.m., I eat poha and have my tea.

Do you skip dinner?

I love pasta and salads. However, dinner is never the same. It depends, sometimes it's non-vegetarian and at times I dine out with friends.

Do you ever fast?

Never. I don't believe in punishing my body because I hate those anorexic looks. I am a heavy eater and I enjoy eating.

Do you ever binge?

Oh I love to! I really hog on rajma chawal, kadi chawal, Goan cuisine, poha (my all time favorite) and sabudana khichdi.

What is your all time favorite food?

Rajma, chawal and poha.

What do you do in your free time?

I've started painting. It's like meditation. I read poetry and watch films. I'm working as a volunteer with an NGO. It's great fun interacting with slum kids. They are barely four years' old, and they can even speak English and sing English songs. It's like having found the right outlet for your love and emotions. I also worked a bit with sex workers. It's a very harsh reality check, and you want to thank God for whatever He has given you. These experiences have really made me a more grounded person.

Aren't you as bitchy and snooty as supposed to be earlier?

I've mellowed down a bit, but that doesn't mean that I cannot sort out with someone who's nasty to me. But, experiences in life teach you a lot. Living by yourself, one day you suddenly decide to take stock of your life and see where you are going. This is a good phase in my life, and I'm very happy. Touchwood!



[ Last edited by  Gadis_Venus at 6-4-2006 09:57 PM ]

FIRING ON ALL CYLINDERS IS SHAHID KAPOOR

Shahid Kapoor could pass off for any fresh-faced college student, only the 22-year-old is being compared to actor Shah Rukh Khan and had "friendship bands" tied to the lock of his house in suburban Mumbai on Friendship Day (August 3). When Shahid landed in the role of a college student in 'Ishq Vishk', he had no inkling of the impact he would create. The love story was a huge hit. Ironically, the director, Ken Ghosh, had rejected him when they first met. Ghosh told him that he was "too thin and young to play the role". The rejection only inspired Shahid, who was a dance director at Shiamak Davar Institute of Performing Arts. He worked on his physique for a year and got trained under veteran actors like Naseeruddin Shah and Satyadev Dubey. The best thing about him is that he has his head firmly on his shoulders. It is said that today, roles written for Hrithik Roshan and Vivek Oberoi, are being altered to suit Shahid's age and looks.

What's your school grooming?

I did my schooling from Gyanbharati (Delhi) and Rajhans Vidyalaya (Mumbai). I was a good student. I got a really good percentage (82) in my tenth standard. I even considered science as subject, but shifted to arts, as I had to concentrate on acting.

When did you first face the camera?

A chance audition through a friend with Shiamak Davar landed me the Pepsi ad with Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol and Rani Mukherjee. It was only after doing that the idea of taking up acting as a career started germinating in my mind. As a first step towards achieving that goal I did some acting workshops with Naseeruddin Shah. Later, I also assisted my dad on TV serials. I was third assistant and got kicked around a lot. I wasn't treated like Pankaj Kapoor's son and had to do all the hard work. 'Sir, chai pee lijiye', 'Sir, script padh lijiye'. But I enjoyed being a nobody. I was just biding my time till I got a break

Are you enjoying all the female attention that you're getting post 'Ishq Vishq'?

No way. The truth is that everybody is in love with the character Rajiv. They love Shahid, the actor. Nobody knows the real Shahid. If I believe that they are in love with me as a person, I'm just getting carried away. But I am open to the idea of a girlfriend, if I find her along the way.

How do you stay on the ground considering the hysteria around you?

In the midst of all the fans and hype, two individuals have kept my feet grounded-my mom Neelima Azim, and the other is someone I've never met-Hrithik Roshan. I used to read his interviews after 'Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai'. He was so humble and down-to-earth even when he was being treated like God. Therefore, I am in a similar situation where I have done well commercially for myself and am suddenly being treated like a star, but I know what not to do. So, thank you, Mr Hrithik Roshan.

Is it true that you're asking for a whopping Rs. 1 crore as remuneration?

One crore! Really? Where is it? I'm waiting to be offered that kind of money. I'm a practical guy with a modest background. I know the value of money and my value as an artist. I'm asking for a fair sum that won't tax my producers. Come on, I want to stay in this industry for a long time. In my low phases, people should remember me as deserving and straightforward, not someone who duped them simply because I was a success. Please, I'm not asking for Rs 1 crore. In fact, I haven't finalized any price because I haven't signed another film yet. I believe that if you do good work, fame and money will follow.

Why haven't you signed too many films after 'Ishq Vishk?

I'm only 22. At this point, a lot of people will try to fit me into scripts because I am commercially viable. See, before my film released, producers were thinking about Vivek, Hrithik, etc, who are at least three to four years older than I am. Now after 'Ishq Vishk', scripts are being written with me in mind. Roles are being altered to suit my age and my face. So it's going to be at least another three months before I start shooting. I am the first hero in the history of Hindi films, at least in the past five or six years, not to have signed on anything before my first film got released. That's a huge, huge risk I took. I was cautioned against this but I was clear I didn't want to do anything I didn't believe in. I didn't sign films to feel safe. I think my gamble has paid off now that ' Ishq Vishk' is a success. Today I don't have to do a film I'm not happy with or don't believe in. I just listen to my heart and choose scripts I can relate to. After 'Ishq Vishk' I went through more than 70 scripts before narrowing down my choice to four. These include another film with Ghosh for Tips Films, one with Boney Kapoor to be directed by Satish Kaushik and 'Life Ho To Aisi', to be directed by Mahesh Manjrekar and co-starring Sanjay Dutt.

Isn't there a danger of being typecast as the bubblegum teenager?

Right. But I will not do 10 projects at a time; only three, or maximum four films in a year. So there is no question of running out of subjects. Four subjects can easily be worked around a 22-year-old. Even if I do one each from five different genres-horror, thriller, family drama, romance, and slapstick comedy-I shouldn't have any problem for the next two years. By then, I will be 25/26 and I can start experimenting with different roles.

One criticism against Shahid, the actor, is that he seems heavily influenced by Shah Rukh Khan?

I really don't understand where this comes from, as I don't copy him. Still, if somebody feels that way, then I apologize. Shah Rukh Khan is a very fine actor, a huge star and my senior by so many years. But I am influenced in acting by Dilipsaab (Dilip Kumar), Amitji (Bachchan), Naseeruddin Shah, Om Puri, Al Pacino, Marlon Brando and my father Pankaj Kapoor, from whom I can learn from, just in everyday conversation. Maybe the Shah Rukh influence is a coincidence or it operates on a sub-conscious level. But now that people have mentioned it, I will be careful in future. I will definitely work against it. But ultimately, I am going to do what comes naturally to me.



[ Last edited by Gadis_Venus at 24-8-2005 08:33 PM ]

'ZAMEEN' FULFILS ABHISHEK'S DREAM

Abhishek is very happy with his performance in his forthcoming movie 'Zameen'. He says that his role in this movie has helped him to fulfill his cherished dream of becoming an action hero like his father, Amitabh Bachchan, whom he considers as his idol.

In his recent tete-e-tete with Smashits, Abhishek said, "I had been dreaming of doing the role of an action hero since my childhood. Whenever I watched Papa successfully overcoming the villain in his movies, I thought of doing something of that kind. 'Zameen' provided me an opportunity to do it, and I am indeed satisfied with my performance." When asked if 'Zameen' was based on the real incident of an Indian airlines plane hijack, Abhishek agreed that the incident definitely inspired the movie, but it is not totally based on that mishap. He said, "I fully enjoyed working with Ajay Devgan in 'Zameen' as the latter treated me as his younger brother. "I have learnt a lot from Devgan," he added. While speaking about her forthcoming projects, Abhishek disclosed that he is busy at present in the shooting of 'Run'.

Preity as guest in Hrithik's 'Krish'

Though Hrithik Roshan had a hit with Preity Zinta in their 'Koi Mil Gaya', yet he would be missing her partner Preity in his papa's production 'Krish'. Hrithik has adopted a policy of 'go slow and be choosy' in regard to acting in films after his 'Lakshya' that failed him. It is stated that papa Rakesh Roshan wanted to sign Preity for 'Krish', but later assigned this role to Priyanka Chopra for the reason best known to him. However, papa knows his son's choice too, and has therefore roped in Preity in a guest role. Anyway, Hrithik would get some time to be with Preity.

Preity Zinta & Hrithik Roshan


[ Last edited by Gadis_Venus at 14-1-2006 04:25 PM ]

Kajol signs Rs 500 m ad films

The long wait of the directors and the producers seems to be over with the announcement of a talented actress back to filmdom after a lapse of about two years. Yes, Kajol will soon be seen in Yash Chopra's film starrer Aamir Khan. Besides, Kajol has also signed two big ad films of a multinational named Whirlpol. The MNC has signed her husband too in this project involving a huge sum of Rs 500 millions. The shooting for the big ad films will resume soon but after the director of the project is finalized. It is said a new director of the Yash Chopra camp will be named as its director.

Abhishek enjoys with friends

Abhishek Bachchan is happy nowadays as he has successfully displayed his acting skill in his films like 'Yuva' and 'Dhoom'. Besides, he has some offers from big banners. He is busy though with Ram Gopal Verma's 'Sarkar', Yash Chopra's 'Bunty and Babli' besides his home production. He is banking on 'Bunty and Babli' He seems to be fully relaxed now. Whenever free from shoot, the junior B is noticed enjoying with friends in five star hotels. Recently, we found him in an auditorium watching his papa's latest 'Black' in the company of his pals like Bunty, Goldie Anand, Rohan Sippy and Aditya. They told us that they were there at the invitation of junior B. Apart from it; they are also seen playing cricket on holidays.

Bipasha not keen on awards

After 'Gangajal' Prakash Jha is busy nowadays in the making of his forthcoming movie 'Apaharan'. The movie stars Bipasha Basu and Ajay Devgan. Bips is the one Hindi movie actress who is not too keen on getting awards sooner than she deserves. Jha is an awards winner. When asked if she has signed this movie with Jha to earn awards, she said no. Bipasha says, "The award for this film may go to Ajay Devgan for his performance. I do not expect this kind of award for me.

MADHURI'S SECRETARY COMPLAINS

The latest story in the entertainment world is Sting operation. This began with Bollywood's famous villain Shakti Kapoor, soon followed by famous television anchor- cum-actor Aman Verma. Now, it is the turn of star secretary Rakesh Nath aka Rikku. As is well known that Rikku has handled the career of Madhuri Dixit for more than a decade. The news channel seems to have tried conducting a similar sting operation on him.

However, he says that he can handle such an operation very carefully. He has told his lawyer that he too had been getting calls from an "aspiring" actress who wanted his help for making it in Bollywood. Rikku told his lawyers that the girl, who went by name of Ruchi, had plagued him with calls during the month of December 2004 seeking his help to launch her career. Rikku adds that mostly he had been getting calls from a girl based in Delhi.

Vivek's home delivery to Mahima

What will Vivek Oberoi deliver to Mahima Chaudhary? This is being talked in filmi circles in Mumbai. This is to recall that Vivek Oberoi and Mahima Chaudhary are starring together in a movie titled 'Home Delivery'.

Vivek Oberoi


Mahima Chowdary


[ Last edited by Gadis_Venus at 13-1-2006 10:21 PM ]

Ath Amitabh Chalisa

Amitabh Chalisa is a book written by the Bihari fans of Amitabh Bachchan eulogizing him and treating him as their god. This has shocked Big B though. The chalisa has 40 couplets in praise of their idol on the lines of Hanuman (Lord Hanuman) Chalisa. This reads: Om Jai Amitabh Hare, Swami Jaya Amitabh Hare, Produceron Ke Sankat Chhan me door Kare (solves the problems of the producers in a moment). Big B warned them not to print any more such books, and stop treating him like Hanuman or any other Lord.

Saif in touch with Amrita

Saif Ali Khan has not yet forgotten his ex-wife Amrita Singh. Nor has he lost any love and affection for his children-- Sara and Ibrahim. Whenever Saif finds time after his shoot or during it, he sends SMS to Amrita and his children. In fact, he gets concerned in case he doesn't get an SMS from one of them. At a recent shoot, a director found that Saif was busy shooting SMS. He wondered as to whom he was sending so anxiously. This created a curiosity in the mind of the director. He asked Saif as to whom he was sending long SMS. Saif showed him his record. The director was happy that the ex-couple had divorced but not lost contact with each other. This was a great relief for the whole crew. They still have Dil Ka Rishta!

Saif Ali Khan


Amrita Singh