Aishwarya rai and Rajnikanth on the sets of Enthiran (Robot)

Aishwarya rai and Rajnikanth on the sets of Enthiran (Robot)

Everyone's looking forward to Rajnikanth's new film, Enthiran, with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. Directed by ace filmmaker Shankar, the film promises to entertain.

We bring you exclusive pictures of the film, during its shooting at the historical Inca civilisational site of Machu Picchu in Peru. The film was also shot in Brazil.

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Bollywood Actor Sonu Sood's, Another Hit Arundhati

Sonu Sood Interview

Sonu Sood, a familiar face in Hindi movies, has become a huge hit in the Telugu film industry.

The tall and lean actor has had a good 2008 having done Hindi films like Jodhaa Akbar, Singh is Kinng and Ek Vivaah Aisa Bhi.

He is also basking in the unprecedented success of the recently released Telugu film Arundhati, one of the runaway hits in the beginning of 2009.

Sonu was brilliant as Pashupati and especially as aghora (he plays a tantric) he sent shivers down our spine.

The unpretentious, friendly and warm actor talks about Arundhati, his role as Pashupati and acting in Telugu films.

Why Arundhati?

I was on the lookout for a new role. When I met the producer (Shyam Prasad Reddy) and director (Kodi Ramakrishna), the role was that of a bouncer. They wanted me to play an aghora and I did not know who an aghora was. The producer and director then showed me some sketches. The only thing I knew was that I would be working with a team which had done its homework. I signed the role purely on instinct.

Besides the script, weren't you influenced by big names like Shyam Prasad Reddy and Kodi Ramakrishna?

The script was the main reason to sign the film. The names were also important.

My make-up alone took 4-5 hours'
You've put in a high-voltage performance as Pashupati. Did you do any homework for it?

I saw photographs of aghoras given to me by the production unit. I didn't get much reading material on them, though. I was a bit confused on whether to underplay or overplay but the director knew what he wanted. In the end it was spontaneity on the sets.

A role on reincarnation, a tormented spirit wreaking vengeance -- did you think that such a role would work in today's age of science and rationality?

Yes, I did have some hesitation. I did have this question in my mind on how to convince people with the supernatural element. All the people who worked on the script were fully charged and they had the conviction that they could do it. So I believed in that conviction and the supernatural theme connected with the audience.

How challenging was it to play the character?

It was not easy. My make-up alone took 4-5 hours and it was tedious maintaining it too. In fact it was a challenge. At times we used to shoot continuously for many hours without a wink. Physically it was tiring. And I used to have rashes on the body because of the make-up. I suffered from backache as well. All this made me think of never doing something like this again. However after seeing the success of Arundhati, I have to rethink my decision.

I did Jodhaa Akbar and Arundhati simultaneously. And both the characters were totally different. When I returned to Jaipur (for Jodhaa Akbar) after shooting for Arundhati, I would tell Ashutosh Gowarikar (director Jodhaa Akbar) and his team about playing the aghora. I think it's some supernatural force which helped me do it.

'I even scared myself when I watched the film in the theatre!'
You were able to induce fear and terror. Your body language and expressions were so apt especially in the scenes as aghora. How did you manage that?

I even scared myself when I watched the film in the theatre! I think the word 'action' did the trick. I think it's destiny which made me play Pashupati in the film. My sister who would come to the sets to watch the shoot told me, 'I couldn't see you bhaiyya; I could see only the character.' In fact the character was so overpowering and strong that I couldn't see anything else.

Did the character haunt you later? Were you able to shed it easily from your mind and body?

It wasn't easy. The character stayed with me for quite some time.

Arundhati is faring very well. Did you anticipate its success?

I believed in the film and knew it would be appreciated. But what I didn't realise was that it would break records. It's been a great learning experience. It has also proved that if you believe in yourself, you can do wonders and create history.

'The technicalities I learnt in the Tamil and Telugu film industries helped me in the Hindi film industry later on'
You have been playing the baddie (Ashok) as well as essaying some good roles (Super, Athadu, Mr Medhavi). What challenges you as an artiste? Does playing roles with shades of grey give you more scope as an artiste?

I never wanted to be typecasted. That's why I do different roles. Every role is challenging. It is important for an actor to explore all phases and to learn.

How did you adapt yourself to Tamil and Telugu films? What about the language barrier?

When I started doing these films, there was no choice. I was an engineer who got into acting and the scripts were good. The technicians in the South were brilliant. I learnt the words, then the lines -- the whole process. It was like a new classroom with new teachers. The technicalities I learnt in the Tamil and Telugu film industries helped me in the Hindi film industry later on.

'People say I'm choosy but the role has to excite me'
Are you working on any Telugu projects?

I have done a movie (Bangaru Babu) with Jagapathi Babu where I play a positive role. I am listening to scripts though I haven't signed any films yet.

Will you juggle Hindi and Telugu/Tamil films?

I will juggle between Hindi and Telugu films. I enjoy working in the Telugu film industry. I plan to work in two Telugu releases in a year.

How selective are you in choosing scripts?

People say I'm choosy but the role has to excite me. It has to be a character which makes me get up without an alarm.

Can we know something about Sonu, the man in real life...?

Well I am from a small town Moga (Punjab). I never thought I would get into acting. Thanks to my family's support, I am where I am today in the film world. I am a shy person, I don't party. I play the guitar, watch movies, play with my six-year old son, spend time with my family and also play cricket.

source:rediff.com

SlumDog Millionaire Premiere Photo Gallery

A.R. Rahman has bagged three Oscar nominations on Thursday, one for original score and two in the original song category — ‘Jai Ho,’ with lyricist Gulzar and ‘O saya’ with lyricist Maya Arulpragasam — it is a dream come true for India.

Kareema Begum, Rahman`s mother, said, “ Its all God’s blessings. I feel on top of the world, I am so elated.”

Gibran, a friend, Craig and Pooja

Simbu, Dharan, Vijay and Darsana

Cinematographer PC Sreeram

Madhavan`s wife, Sarita, at the premiere

Narain with wife, Manju

Silambarasan said that he was determined not to reveal his new look for his next film but could not help but make an appearance as he couldn`t afford to miss watching this film

N Ram, Editor, The Hindu, at the premiere

Sundar C with wife, Kushboo

Suhasini and Kushboo were all smiles at the premiere

Rahman’s sister Raihana

Kadhija, the pretty little daughter of Rahman, was shy to talk but told Sify.com that she is proud of her dad and is 90 per cent sure that he will win the first Oscar for India.

Rahman who is busy at his studio in Chennai was conspicuous by his absence at the premiere. He is currently mixing the music of Delhi 6.

Rahman’s mother Kareema Begum was the cynosure of all eyes on the red carpet at the Chennai premiere of Slumdog Millionaire held at Sathyam Cinemas on Thursday night. She came with her two daughters and Rahman’s daughter Kadhija.

source:sify.com

Bollywood Actress Rakhi Sawant Photo Gallery

Rahman, Anil Kapoor sued for calling Indians names

Cast of Slumdog Millionaire during a press conference in New Delhi.

Bollywood actor Anil Kapoor and music director A R Rahman have been sued in a Patna court for allegedly calling slum dwellers names in Slumdog Millionaire.

their award-winning movie, 'Slumdog Millionaire'.

One Tapeshwar Vishwakarma, general secretary of Slum Dwellers' Joint Action Committee, on Tuesday filed a complaint case in the court of chief judicial magistrate Raghavendra Kumar Singh, charging the duo with defaming slum dwellers by calling them "slumdogs" and Indians "dogs" in the movie. They, thus, violated the slum dwellers' rights to live a dignified life, the complaint said.

Though the court has fixed February 5 as the next date of hearing, it has not taken cognizance in the case and, instead, asked the complainant to produce evidence in support of his allegations.

Vishwakarma on Wednesday told TOI he has also approached the National Human Rights' Commission for action against the two film personalities. He admitted he has not watched the movie. "But I have seen the movie's promos on TV," he said, adding he has named only Kapoor and Rahman because they are "better- known Indians associated with the movie".

EXCLUSIVE OBAMA's INAUGURATION DAY - "SO HELP ME GOD" (AVAILABLE ON ITUNES)

The inauguration usually takes place at noon on the steps of the west front of the U.S. Capitol building in Washington, D.C. Chief Justice John Roberts Jr., an appointee of outgoing President Bush, will oversee the changing of the guard by administering the oath, which traditionally is done on a Bible. Also present will be members of the U.S. armed forces, since the president is also commander-in-chief.

Joe Biden, the vice president-elect, will take his oath first, in the same ceremony. A band will play "Hail to the Chief," the infantry guard will give a 21-gun salute, and then Obama will make his inaugural address — his first speech to the country as president.

The United States Congress then will invite Obama and Biden to lunch, after which Obama will parade down from the Capitol to the White House.

And after all this pomp and circumstance, it's party time. Inaugural celebrations can last up to five days after the initial ceremony, but the most anticipated one is the Inaugural Ball — tickets, which are available on various ticket Web sites at exorbitant prices, are going fast. The official inauguration Web site unhelpfully says: "Tickets for the Inaugural swearing-in ceremony will be distributed to constituents in January 2009 by both Senators and Representatives of Congress of the 111th Congress."

It seems likely that the events surrounding the inauguration will be the kind of star-studded affair that Obama's victory celebration Tuesday night was not. The day before the election, the Chicago Sun-Times reported that the Obama campaign had asked some of its famous supporters to stay away from Tuesday's rally. Although the campaign is reportedly grateful for the high-profile support, several prominent celebs had reportedly been asked "politely but very firmly" to skip the rally — and focus on attending the Obama inauguration.

India Prime Minister Undergoes Angiopgraphy

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Wednesday underwent angiography as part of a series of heart-related tests at the All India Institute
of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) here, officials said.

"We cannot comment on any surgical procedure but the prime minister did undergo angiography," said his personal physician
K S Reddy, who is heading a multi-disciplinary team treating Manmohan Singh.

The prime minister's media press adviser Deepak Sandhu said he would spend the night at the AIIMS and return home Thursday morning.

The prime minister had reportedly complained of chest pain
after which a decision to carry out the tests was taken, according to hospital officials.

A day earlier, the prime minister visited AIIMS for an overall medical check-up and returned home.

AIIMS Medical Superintendent D K Sharma then said the prime minister had come for a "check-up" which was conducted by a team of doctors from various disciplines.

He had cancelled his visit to Kolkata, scheduled for Wednesday, to attend the Asiatic Society's post-bicentennial silver jubilee celebrations and inaugurate the 150th foundation day of St Xavier's College and Collegiate School.

"He is alright and will be joining work," Deepak Sandhu said earlier.

In October 2005 the prime minister underwent a minor surgical procedure to ease the pressure on a nerve in his right wrist.

Then in September 2007, he underwent surgery for benign enlargement of the prostate gland.

Actor Sanjay Dutt's Comments On His Sister

Constitution gives women right to choose surname: Chowdhry

Actor Sanjay Dutt's comments on his sister using her maiden name as "very very sad", Women and Child Development Minister Renuka Chowdhry on Monday said the Constitution has given the right to any woman to choose her surname.

"It is very very sad. The Constitution has given a right to women. They can choose any name they want," Chowdhry told reporters here.

Chairperson of the National Commission for Women (NCW) Girija Vyas was, however, a little careful while commenting on the issue saying, "we have to also understand the context in which he (Dutt) has said it".

"Media should not interfere in their private life. But in modern times as well as ancient times, a woman has a right to take whichever surname she wants," she added.

Dutt has said on Sunday that his sister Priya was no longer a part of the family. He also said girls should retain their husband's surname after marriage, thus Priya is no longer a Dutt.

Priya, who is a Congress MP from her late father Sunil Dutt's constituency, had expressed her discontent a few days back over Sanjay's decision to contest from Lucknow on a Samajwadi Party ticket.

A R Rahman wins Golden Globe Award 2009 for Slumdog Millionaire

A R Rahman has made India Proud by winning golden globe for Slumdog Millionaire for best music

Cast and Crew of 'Slumdog Millionaire'

The cast and crew of 'Slumdog Millionaire' arrive at the Golden Globe awards in Beverly Hills, California.

Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan at the Golden Globe Awards

SRK at the Golden Globe Awards

Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan spoke to NDTV at Universal city in Hollywood just as he was stepping out for the Golden globe awards.

He spoke about the honor of being called on to present an award at the Golden Globes and of the darling of the event the film 'Slumdog Millionaire' thats based in India.

NDTV: Shah Rukh Khan you are usually at the receiving end at such events, today you are giving away the prize, the first time for an Indian actor at the Golden Globes- Hollywood's biggest award night, second only to the Oscars. What does this mean for SRK and for Indian cinema?

Shah Rukh Khan: Now you are making me nervous. I am not being humble, but I truly believe that the Western audience is now looking at Indian cinema. I am one of the faces of Indian cinema at this point of time, and they picked on me and asked me to come and represent the country. It is a great honor. A lot of graciousness on the part of the Golden Globes. I am representing the country. Great honor. I get to present Slumdog Millionaire. It's even more heartening because A R Rehman is there, it is shot in India. I have presented KBC. I would take it as a rehearsals for Indians to present awards here to start with and inshahallah in the future bring some films here and at the Oscars and win some of them during my time so I can come and attend some ceremonies and clap for our own films.

NDTV: What does this mean for SRK the brand after all the golden globes is watched in over 160 countries the world over.

Shah Rukh Khan: I have never understood this SRK brand Every body always asks me that. I am just an actor trying to get some emotions right. I have been working 20 years now. These big events always make me realize how long I have been working It's a good thing. I believe that I can represent the country. I believe in hope, happiness, goodness smiles entertainment, and freedom. If somewhere along my line of work I have to represent my country then I believe my country stand for all that. And I hope I do not let it down. I do not know about my own brand, I am not too much of a net worker a socialize. To be honest, I get I get embarrassed about wearing a suit and going on the red carpet. That is the simplicity that I have always maintained in life. I am just going to go there and do what they tell me to. Personally, I do not know what happenings to SRK brand but the brand of India I think is going to make waves in creativity and the film fraternity as the years go by.

NDTV: And your thoughts on the contenders for best film? On one hand you have the big studio products with big names like Brad Pitt as Benjamin Button, and on the other the underdogs, the small budget indie productions featuring actors many may not have heard of like Slumdog.

Shah Rukh Khan: It's nice to have a mix I think, I've seen Benjamin Button, I love Brad Pitt, for an actor of his caliber to start doing the kind of stuff he's doing now, certainly so different from what you know Brad Pitt for, also the film with the Coen brothers, I think that was really good, he acted fantastically in that, it's very heartening to see stars like him, and on the other hand I think Slumdog Millionaire is a brilliant film itself, it's set in India. So I feel really closer to it, it's got Anil Kapoor, it's got AR Raman, and I think if anyone deserves an award it's AR Raman from our country, so I hope I'm not the only the first Indian on stage for Golden Globes, the second one joins me soon and wins an award inshallah. But yeah, it's always nice to have this mix, and perhaps this is the kind of stuff, which should happen for the awards in India too. You have an interesting mix of cinema and films, and you don't know which one is going to take off that night. Because it keeps you on your toes and also it keeps variety alive. So it's really nice that you have big names, like you mentioned, and you have relatively unknown people who won't be unknown, I think Dev Patel is really good in the film, Danny Boyle is not unknown, I'm a big fan of Danny Boyle, so all that put together is exciting because there's variety and you don't know who's gonna win till the last minute. Something like this should happen in the Indian awards also. The Indian awards I feel run on one level. They become predictable. Thought I win most of them that is the only predictability I do not want to change.

NDTV: the last few moths the world has seen 2 images of Mumbai. One the terror attacks and two at the box office with slumdog millionaire.What do you think of the portrayal of your city/Mumbai in the film?

Shah Rukh Khan: We cannot isolate the attacks only on Mumbai there are attacks taking place all over the world. Different cities get targeted unfortunately at different times. It has happened in Delhi, Gujarat we have suffered everywhere. It is a reality we have to live with and fight. On the other hand cinema gives you hope. Films like slum dog millionaire, within all the grime and the dust and hardships of India and Mumbai there is a lot of hope and love. It seems like a Hindi film to me when I see Slumdog Millionaire and that is what we stand for. The country stands for that despite all the stress and hardship, problems the cash registers will flow because we are warm and loving people .If you want a comparison, Indian cinema stand for just that. Slum dog millionaire stand for that. It leaves you with the thought that what ever happens in any part of the world it is happening all over the world and what we do not let go of is hope and happiness.

NDTV: A R Rehman has been called the Mozart of India but now he has been nominated for a Golden Globe. Is Rehman putting us on the map, finding global acceptance that was long over due?

Shah Rukh Khan: Absolutely, I think some of the miss worlds and universes- Aishwarya Rai and Sushmita Sen, I am talking only in terms of the media, creative world and the modeling
world . We got very far on the world map because of the presence of these two ladies and then further on lots of girls have done very well for us. I think Rehman is a true genius. He has been working hard for years and has been going some really different kind of music. I have been working with him and am very fond of him. I think that is time that some one like Rehman, if he is recogonised internationally it would be rightly so, deservingly so. If there is some one who has to get a golden globe from India for the first time then there is no one better than Rehman to get it so inshahallah. Even if he does not get I think he is the Mozart of the world not just of India.

NDTV: Shahrukh, you mentioned being nervous about going on to the red carpet. The last time Aishwarya Rai was on such an international stage she got a lot of flak for what she was wearing, what designer she chooses etc, is that the same with men?

Shah Rukh Khan:I am going naked, I have decided not to wear any clothes because no clothes means no criticism. I do not know what to wear. I have spoken to Karan. I have a black suit that I have been wearing for the past 7 years. I take it out, get it dusted and ironed and I wear that. It is the safest. There are many wonderful people at the golden globes who are telling me that I should wear Indian clothes but my son does not like me wearing Indian clothes. So I am just going to wear a black suit and a black tie and hope I do not look like a waiter there. I hope that they will recogonise me and I pass off normally. It is the safest thing to do when y0ou are in America and Europe.

source:ndtv.com

AR Rahman wins Golden Globe Award for Slumdog

Indian music maestro AR Rahman created history on Sunday night by winning the Golden Globe Award. At a glittering ceremony in Los Angeles, Rahman bagged the Golden Globe for Best Original Music Score for ‘Slumdog Millionaire’. The film also won the award for Best Screenplay at the 66th Golden Globe Awards ceremony.

Rahman bagged the Golden Globe for his song ‘Jai Ho’, penned by lyricist Gulzar.

The Golden Globe Awards have now set the countdown for next month's Academy awards.

The film, which is the story of a Mumbai underdog's rags-to-riches run, had earned four nominations, including for Best Picture-Drama, Best Director for Boyle and Best Screenplay for Simon Beaufoy.

‘Slumdog…’ is based on a novel by Indian diplomat Vikash Swarup and stars actors Anil Kapoor and Irrfan Khan in the lead among others.

The film has been shot at various locations in Mumbai including Victoria Terminus railway station, which was targeted by terrorists on November 26, last year.

Boyle's feel-good film depicts the moving story of a slumdweller Jamal, who goes on to win USD 20 million on Indian reality show 'Who Wants to Be A Millionaire?' in a bid to win his love back.

Bollywood Actress Anushka Sharma Profile Biography

Anushka Sharma Profile Biography
Name : Anushka Sharma
Height : 5'9"
Debut Film : Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi
Birth Date: May 1, 1988
Birth Place: Bangalore, Karnataka, India


Anushka Sharma a 5'9" tall Bengaluru based elite model is the heroine of the forthcoming Indian Bollywood film Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi that stars Shahrukh Khan in the pivotal role. Directed by Aditya Chopra, who earlier directed hits like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995) and Mohabbatein (2000), the film is currently in its filming stage and is expected to release on December 12, 2008.

That Anushka Sharma is a model from Bangalore is a fact well known to one and all, but as always we bring you exclusive inside details about Anushka Sharma, the hottest new find (after Deepika Padukone) in Bollywood.


Anushka comes from a very disciplined army family background. Her father is an army officer and mother a housewife. She was an intelligent and hardworking student during her army school days and completed her higher studies from Mount Carmel College, Bangalore. She was an all–rounder and was brilliant in athletics too. She had a great personality with good looks, a super figure and confidence!

Anushka's parents were always very supportive of her joining modeling and taking it up as a career option. She joined a Bangalore based modeling agency and the style and image consultant Prasad Bidapa was one of the few people who had groomed her. He remembers meeting her at the tender age of thirteen and was taken in by her innocent and beautiful looks. Bidapa discloses that Anushka always had the makings of a superstar. At the age of thirteen she used to walk the ramp like a seasoned model. Her cool confidence and attitude made her shine during her modeling days. Her portfolio pictures and catalogue was sent by the Bangalore based modeling agency to the Yash Raj Studio and was instrumental in Aditya Chopra selecting her for the coveted role of Taani, Shah Rukh's love interest in RAB NE BANA DI JODI. Keep tuned to your favourite portal for more inside news about Anushka and RAB NE BANA DI JODI!


Anushka Sharma a 5'9" tall Bengaluru based elite model is the heroine of the forthcoming Indian Bollywood film Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi that stars Shahrukh Khan in the pivotal role. Directed by Aditya Chopra, who earlier directed hits like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995) and Mohabbatein (2000), the film is currently in its filming stage and is expected to release on December 12, 2008.


Anushka was picked to be Wendell Rodrick's finale model at the last Fashion Week. Since then the demure looking model has done campaigns for Silk & Shine, Whisper and Fiat Palio. With a set of expressive eyes, this 21-year old Bangalorean has always wanted to be a model. "I can't see myself doing anything else," she was once quoted as saying. At the moment she is studying for a degree in economics.


Yash Raj films had created much mystery and speculations about the girl who would be cast opposite SRK in their next mega venture ‘Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi’. The suspense now comes to an end with the announcement of Anushka Sharma’s name as the female lead for the film.

Anushka, 19 year old teenager, is a small time model from Bangalore. During the last Fashion Week, Anushka was one of the models picked for Wendell Roderick’s finale. Since then she has been doing product endorsements.

Right from the beginning, Anushka wanted to make it big in the glamour world. She studied in Army School and then went ahead to do graduation in arts from Mount Carmel College, Bangalore.


With moral support from her parents, a confident Anushka got herself enrolled in Elite Modelling Agency. She was groomed by renowned style consultant Prasad Bidapa, who met her when she was just 13. Bidapa admits that Anushka always had the quality to be a star.

Designer Wendell Rodricks selected her for his finale show in 2007 at Fashion week. Later, Anushka did few ad-campaigns for Whisper, Silk & Shine and Fiat Palio. She bagged her dream debut in Aditya Chopra’s film ‘Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi’ through Elite Modelling Agency.

Talking about the choice, Yash Chopra said, “We were looking first and foremost for someone who could truly embody the spirit of small town Punjab and we know we have found her in Anushka Sharma. And while she has no previous acting experience, we have seen that unique spark in her that makes us confident that she will be a standout even opposite Shah Rukh.

Bollywood Actress Bipasha Basu In Bikini

Abhishek Bachchan who is Acting in Ravana

Abhi's new Ravana look

Abhishek Bachchan made an appearance at the launch of Big B's bookBachchanalia. Abhishek who is acting in Ravana certainly looked every bit the bad guy (is he playing one to begin with?). But watch out for that pic with Aamir where it seems this Bachchan could do with some grooming lessons!

Stay away from her, or else... Abhishek and Aishwarya at the event

The long and the short of it? Amitabh Bachchan towers over Aamir Khan

De taali!" Now that's one thing Jaya Bachchan ISN'T telling the media persons. Also seen Amar Singh and daughter Shweta

Didn't they tell you not to slouch? Abhishek Bachchan and Aamir Khan

And could the picture be more complete? Zeenat Aman makes an appearance

Bollywood Actor John Abraham Interview

Interview- John Abraham

In hit film "Dostana", John Abraham flaunts his well-toned body on Miami beaches and when the camera panned lovingly over him, many men and women almost swooned. But the actor says he never shies away from talking about his body.

"I'm never ashamed of talking about my body. Though at times I do feel like a meat shop," John told in an interview.

"I wonder how audiences will react to my physicality in my next release 'Aashayein' where I've lost 30 pounds," he added.

John admits he's quite a family man. He shot in Philadelphia for Kabir Khan's film "New York" and was quite homesick. So he brought his parents over and had a great time.

"My parents were over, but I wouldn't let my mom cook here. I pampered her, looked after her like a little baby. That's what one is supposed to do with one's parents, specially when they get old, no? I think I'll take them to Boston too. Dad is an architect; so he loves to check out the buildings and architecture," he said.

Excerpts:

Q: Correct me if I'm wrong, but the film is called "New York"; why were you shooting it in Philadelphia?

A: Because the topography is similar. A lot of films located in New York are actually shot in Philadelphia. I was shooting for three long months and if it wasn't for my parents and brother and sister-in-law and Bipasha visiting, I'd have gone crazy. When they all came to see me, I stopped feeling homesick. I was away for so long sometimes when I woke up I forgot where I was. Before Philadelphia, I was in Miami shooting for "Dostana" for three months.

Q: Homesick?

A: Now I go to Boston for Abbas Tyrewala's film. When I'm away what I miss most is the home-cooked food. My parents were over, but I wouldn't let my mom cook here. I pampered her, looked after her like a little baby. That's what one is supposed to do with one's parents, specially when they get old, no? I think I'll take them to Boston too. Dad is an architect; so he loves to check out the buildings and architecture. But before Boston I come back to Mumbai to do a film "Hook Ya Crook" with David Dhawan..

Q: You're a good son.

A: I'd really want to believe I'm a good son.

Q: How was the shooting in Philadelphia?

A: Gruelling, but very satisfying. I shot the most emotionally and physically exhausting scenes of my life. Frankly, I haven't done an action film since "Dhoom". It's a genre I really enjoy. "New York" has very effective action. I not only had a lot of running around to do, but I enjoyed myself. At this point of my career I just want to push myself beyond the limits.


Q: By wearing the briefest briefs and giving an interview on why you wore it!

A: Oh, that was an endorsement for "Dostana". And, besides, I'm never ashamed of talking about my body. Though at times I do feel like a meat shop.

Q: So why go on and on about your body?

A: I am proud of my physique. But I feel I'm also good with emotions. In fact, I perform the best when I'm unhappy. I function best when in angst.

Q: Happy to be a gay icon?

A: I've been told that. And I accept it very graciously. But women have reacted as strongly to me in "Dostana" as men. Some have reacted to the sensuality; others to the fitness. But everyone has a query about my body. Very often I don't know how to react. Initially, it was fun to be regarded as a body beautiful. I wonder how audiences will react to my physicality in my next release "Aashayein" where I've lost 30 pounds.

Q: "New York" is your second film with Kabir Khan?

A: I loved doing "Kabul Express" with Kabir. I loved shooting in Afghanistan. I'm a sucker for pain and agony. Now I'd love to shoot in Iraq. My grandfather was from Iran. My mother's cousins are in Iran.

Q: Neil Nitin Mukesh, who's shooting with you in Philadelphia, has great respect for you.

A: He's like my younger brother. I love him for the fact that he dotes on his parents. He's a wonderful kid with a great future. We spend a lot of time together.

Q: Is Deepa Mehta's "Luna" with Rachel Weisz off?

A: Deepa and I haven't spoken about it. As for "Komagata Maru", I'd still be willing to play the other lead because it's as important as Akshay Kumar's role. It's always a pleasure working with Akshay. He's a very positive person. We get along beautifully.

Q: What else have you signed?

A: Only Abbas Tyrewala's film. Beyond that I haven't really opened my account book, I'm happy doing films I'm completely convinced about. I'd love to work with Anurag Kashyap again (after 'No Smoking'). I can talk to him for hours. Like me he's happy doing his own thing. I'm an off-roader while other actors are on the highway.

Jennifer Love Hewitt and Fiancé Split

"They broke up over the holidays and have ended their engagement," says a source close to the couple. "They're both really sad about this. Even their friends are surprised; they seemed really happy. Everyone just wants the best for both of them."

Reps for both Hewitt and McCall had no immediate comment.

The Ghost Whisperer star, 29, got engaged to the Scottish actor, 32, in November 2007 after dating for two years.

While the couple hadn’t announced a date, in October Hewitt told PEOPLE her svelte new look was prompted not by those infamous 2007 bikini pictures – and the ensuing controversy over body image after she took to her blog to defend herself – but by her upcoming nuptials.

"I'm getting ready to turn 30 and get married and all those things," Hewitt said. "This year was my year to try to glow from within and feel better."

McCall, who costarred in the 2001 HBO miniseries Band of Brothers and stars in the Starz drama Crash, appeared in one episode of Hewitt's hit show Ghost Whisperer, in 2006.

Akshay kumar smooches Hollywood starlet Denise richards

Akshay kumar smooches Hollywood starlet Denise richards in his upcoming movie Kambhakt Ishq

Top 10 NRI Newsmakers of 2008

After the enthusiastic response to the first list of NRI newsmakers for 2007, here is the updated version before 2008 ends.

The selection is based on news value and the degree of interest and concern to NRIs.

Lord Swaraj Paul

A consistent NRI newsmaker for over three decades, he just made history by being installed Deputy Speaker in the House of Lords. He is the first Indian to sit on the woolsack, the traditional seat.

He has extensive investments in India for his multi-billion pound company Caparo Group. Conferred the Peerage in 1996 and honoured with the Padma Bhushan by India in 1983, 77-year-old Lord Paul is one of the most famous Indian origin entrepreneurs in Britain.

Sonal Shah

Appointed to the Transition Team of US president-elect Barrack Obama, she is a member of a three-person team to coordinate technology, innovation and government reform during the transition. She earlier headed the philanthropic department of Internet giant Google; and was vice president at Goldman, Sachs and Co and developed and implemented the firm's environmental strategy.

Shah, who raised funds for victims of the 2001 earthquake in Gujarat through the Vishwa Hindu Parishad-America, has denied any links to this organisation.

Vikram Pandit

The Citibank CEO shocked everyone with his sudden appointment to the world's biggest banking company. After a year, he is right in the eye of the global financial tsunami to save his bank and spearhead its recovery. He makes news with the US government's multi-billion dollar recovery package for his bank, job losses, restructuring and reviving an icon of the American financial sector.

Facing a difficult recovery, Pandit faces one of the toughest challenges ever seen in the banking industry.

Karpal Singh

A Malaysian-Indian veteran lawyer and human rights activist, he fought the general election as an opposition candidate for equal treatment of all Malays for government contracts, employment and appointments.

He has highlighted the woes of all underprivileged for 30 years and has been compared to Martin Luther King and Nelson Mandela.

Sir Salman Rushdie

His long-time bestseller 'Midnight's Children' was, following a public vote, declared the Best of the Booker in the award's 40-year history.

Navanetham Pillay

A South African Indian judge, he was appointed for four years as the UN Human Rights Commissioner - a significant achievement for NRIs. Her grand-parents migrated from Tamil Nadu to South Africa as sugarcane indentured labourers in the late 1800s, and she became the first woman to start law practice in South Africa's Natal Province in 1968.

Pillay defended several anti-apartheid activists and successfully fought for the right of political prisoners, including Nelson Mandela.

Lakshmi Mittal

Lakshmi Mittal made some news for the wrong reasons this year. The world's largest steel maker after he took over Arcelor, Mittal has had to take tough decisions on staff sackings, respond to environmental concerns and acquisitions and mergers.

Mittal loses £16.7 b to credit crunch

On the positive side, he was honoured with Padma Vibhushan by India and the third Forbes Lifetime Achievement Award for heroes of entrepreneurial capitalism and free enterprise.

The Great Khali, Dilip Singh Rana

One of the largest athletes in the World Wrestling Entertainment and World Heavyweight Champion, Khali calls himself after the Hindu Goddess Kali.

This towering giant at seven feet three inches enjoyed a hero's welcome during his visit to India this year. He also landed up film contracts.

Anand Jon

He was convicted of rape after a glamorous career as the fashion designer to Hollywood stars. From Beverley Hills to prison wards, he made headlines with court proceedings when he was accused of luring young women and girls, as young as 14, to an apartment where he acted out sadistic fantasies.

The powerful, strident campaign for his innocence mounted by his sister Sanjana claims that he was framed

Dev Patel

Dev Patel... Dev who? Well, he is an 18-year actor in the new Hollywood hit 'Slumdog Millionaire'. Based on a novel 'Q&A' by Indian diplomat Vikas Swarup and crafted into a film by the acclaimed director Danny Boyle with music by A.R. Rehman, this film is ready to grab some awards at the next Oscars.

Patel plays Jamal, a slum child who becomes a national hero after he reaches the final question on India's TV show 'Who Wants to be a Millionaire?' Watch him! He could win the best supporting actor award.

Akshay Kumar's Interview

Chandni Chowk to China idea was mine: Akki

In another fortnight, Akshay Kumar's much awaited Chandni Chowk To China which also starrs Deepika Padukone will hit the screens. The new star of Bollywood says that the basic idea behind the film was not a story, not an actual idea, but a poster. In an interview to NDTV's Anupama Chopra, Akshay Kumar spoke about the journey from Chandni Chowk to Bangkok and that to China.

Anupama Chopra (AC): Akshay you are going to begin this year with a very exciting project, Chandni Chowk To China and there has been a lot of conversation about this film being autobiographical, but other than the fact that it echoes your journey from Chandni Chowk to Bangkok how is it autobiographical?

Akshay Kumar (AK): That's all. Actually that is the only resemblance. I was born in Chandni Chowk, this character is also born there and he learns to cook. I am playing a halwai in the film by the way.

AC: You are a halwai?

AK: I am playing a halwai, it's just a character. This guy goes from Chandni Chowk to China to learn martial arts. This is another similarity between us.

AC: So was this by design or did they take it from your life?

AK: Yes, I designed the whole thing for them. Before Warner Brothers came in, Rohan Sippy got me a design of me standing like in that pose. The film was called 'Mera Naam Chin Chin Chu'. He said, "Akshay I want to make a film." I said, "Okay, what's the story?" "I don't have a story." "Okay do you have an idea?" I don't have an idea." "Alright, you have a producer?" "I don't have a producer." Sso what do you have?" "I just have this poster, this is the main poster." His idea was this poster he had made in front of me. This is the first film I've done without listening to anything. I told him I wanted to do this film.

AC: Purely on the poster?

AK: On the poster. You know, sometimes it's your instinct. I don't know whether it's going to be right or wrong. That we will come to know later, when the movie releases. This guy is a chef who goes to learn martial art. Bas yehi idea tha (That's all the idea there was). Let's make it on my life and let's do it. Rohan said,"...give me about three months and I'll come back. He didn't come back to me in three months. When he did come he told me that he has a small idea and that he has got Warner Brothers to produce it. And from there it took off.

source:ndtv.com

Salman Khan walked out with his girlfriend Katrina Kaif

Salman Khan is at it again! On Friday, 1.15 am, at Olive, a visibly high Salman Khan walked out with his girlfriend Katrina Kaif in tow.

However, instead of getting into the car with her, he chose to ride a rickshaw. And the funniest part is that Katrina Kaif trailed behind Salman in the car with the auto-driver sitting next to her!

A witness said, “Salman walked in with Katrina around midnight. They settled for a table in the private dining room. Salman ordered vodka and washed down five to six pegs. Katrina did not drink; she only had dinner. They were seen chatting and looked happy in each other’s company.”

After dinner, they left the restaurant and little did Kat know what was waiting for her. A highly tipsy Salman hailed an auto rickshaw instead of getting into the car with her.

Katrina, who has by now got used to Salman's autorickshaw drives, thought that it was time for yet another adventure trip. But sharing her seat with an auto driver was something she hadn’t bargained for. However, Salman, unaware of Kat’s discomfort, drove the rickshaw merrily. “He seemed very well-versed with the rickshaw controls,” said the source. This is not the first time that Salman has taken an autorickshaw ride in the dead of night. Good friend Govinda has often been a part of Sallu’s midnight adventures. Salman even rubbed off his love for driving autorickshaws onto Willard Carroll, who directed him in Marigold.

Rare 1937 Bugatti supercar found in English garage

It was the equivalent of finding an old Picasso or an unknown Beatles tape hidden away in your uncle's attic.

Relatives of Dr. Harold Carr found an extremely rare 1937 Bugatti Type 57S Atalante — a Holy Grail for car collectors — as they were going through his belongings after his death.

The dusty two-seater, unused since 1960, didn't look like much in the garage in Gosforth, near Newcastle in northern England.

But only 17 were ever made, and when it's cleaned up and auctioned in Paris next month, experts believe it will fetch at least 3 million pounds ($4.3 million) and possibly much more.

Bugatti once represented the height of motoring achievement. The supercar was so ahead of its time it could go up to 130 mph (209 kph) when most other cars topped out about 50 mph (80 kph).

This particular car is even more valuable because it was originally owned by Earl Howe, a prominent British race car driver, and because its original equipment is intact, so it can restored without relying on replacement parts.

"It has all the finest attributes any connoisseur collector could ever seek, in one of the ultimate road-going sports cars from the golden era of the 1930s," said James Knight, head of the international motoring department at Bonhams, which will auction the car Feb. 7.

Knight and a small number of Bugatti enthusiasts knew of Carr's proudest possession, but not the eight relatives who inherited Carr's estate.

The orthopedic surgeon, who died at age 89, was described by relatives as an eccentric hoarder who never threw anything out. He also left behind an Aston Martin, which was sold, and a Jaguar sports car that was scrapped because it was in such poor condition.

The Bugatti marque is famed for its speed and handling and was a frequent race winner in the 1920s and 1930s. The 57S Atalante was one of its most successful models, each one made by hand with unique details.

The company founded in 1909 by Ettore Bugatti collapsed in the 1940s after a long string of racing victories.

The rights to the legendary Bugatti name were purchased in 1998 by Volkswagen, which has built the Bugatti Veyron, one of the world's fastest and most expensive cars.

Aamir Khan launches Amitabh Bachchan's biography 'Bachchanalia'

Living legend Amitabh Bachchan’s biography, which has been penned by eminent film journalist Bhawana Somaya, was launched this Saturday by none other than superstar Aamir Khan. His family members including Abhishek and Aishwarya, got together for releasing 'Bachchanalia' and Aamir was invited as the guest of honour to launch the book.

At the event, Aamir was all praises for Big B. He said, "Often I find in this line that success is not directly proportionate to talent and hard work. But here is one case where it is certainly proportionate to the talent and hardwork Mr Bachchan has.”

While Aamir was truly appreciating Amitabh’s commendable work in cinema, Abhishek was flaunting his look for Mani Ratnam's film 'Ravana'. Nevertheless, both Abhishek and Aishwarya mentioned that they are more than glad to be a part of the event. They said, "As a family we are very proud and humbled by the gesture for the release of this book."

Enlightening the audience with his words at the function, Amitabh said, "It has been a wonderful experience. I am very happy that somebody has documented this. I feel obliged and honoured."

Earlier, Amitabh was not too keen to have someone penning his biography, but the actor later gave a ‘yes’ to Neville Tuli, founder of pioneering arts institution Osian’s, which already boasts of an auction house, archive and film house. Amitabh says, “Bachchanalia is very pictorial and boasts of vintage priceless poster designs. It’s very interestingly done with snippets of my films, and interesting trivia.”

Well, with 'Bachchanalia', Amitabh seems to have achieved yet another milestone

I like the incomplete romance in Ghajini: Asin Interview

I like the incomplete romance in Ghajini: Asin

Well known actress in the South, Asin made her debut in Bollywood opposite Aamir Khan in Ghajini that released last week. After starring in original Tamil version opposite Surya, the actress said that working in the Hindi remake posed its own set of challenges.

To be seen next opposite of Salman Khan and Ajay Devgan in Vipul Shah's London dreams, Asin is surely a talent to look out for.

Rajeev Masand: Welcome Asin and congratulations for the success of the film. Let's do some flashback, about a year ago when they came and offered you to do Ghajini again, what was the first question you had when they told you they were to re-make it in Hindi.

Asin: No questions at all. I knew that Aamir Khan wanted to see the Tamil version and that he had heard about it and there was a special screening of the movie for him in Mumbai.

I then received a call from him, which I thought was a very nice gesture from his side. He congratulated me for the film and he absolutely loved it.

He spoke about my character and then we had a conversation at the end of which he casually asked me if I speak Hindi and if i would be interested in doing any Hindi projects and I said yes, if anything interesting comes along I will. Well, I had no idea they were planning to do it in Hindi.

A few days later the production house calls me and tells that they are remaking it and that Aamir Khan is starring in it. They wanted me to do the same role that I did in Tamil. I was excited. There were no questions. I knew the people, I knew the script. Just the excitement.

Rajeev Masand Wasn’t it boring to do the same role, same movie again?.

Asin: I wasn't thinking about it that way. There was a comfort level. I knew the role, the character, the same director. But it wasn't monotonous because the rest of the team was new.

Rajeev Masand: What I enjoyed about Ghajini was the romance and the fact that the romance was unfinished in the film. Even the first step of knowing each other was incomplete.

Asin: I think it is the slight pain that is left with the audience after watching the movie, in fact I got calls from people saying- "you know Kalpana, that was actually Sanjay Singhania".

I think it worked for the film and what we intended got conveyed. I also think that the romance forms a strong emotional base that kind of justifies the pain and action in the film.

For me this romance is quite charming because usually these days we have boy meets girl and some kind of physicality comes in, but this is so pure.

Here the only time they even hold hands or almost hold hands is in the cement slab scene. I found it very beautiful and very rare in cinema these days so that was quite attractive.

Rajeev Masand: A lot of people say that they found the character of Kalpana very refreshing. She is a girl who everyone would like to know, the kind of girl that you almost believe doesn't exist. So how much are you like Kalpana? .

Asin: Well, a lot. In fact I don’t tell so many lies and tall tales, but a lot. I am quite mad that way and so is she. She can be over the top at times and i call her the complete girl package. Because she is naughty, she is nice, she is kind and charming, silly all rolled into one.

Rajeev Masand: Since you have acted in the Tamil version too, were there any changes that you have brought or did you feel there were things that you wanted to improve on?. The romantic track was pretty much faithful in the Hindi one when compared to the Tamil version, but did you do any small little changes yourself?

Asin: Not consciously. I don’t know if something came about sub-consciously because the director and the whole team was particular that she had to be the same, untouched, just like that and it worked so well.

And that is one difficult part about doing a film, something that has worked well, and so magically over there which makes you think, so what is the x-factor that you have to re-create to get the magic all over again.

It's in that moment. In that combination and you don't know what has worked there and it is kind of tough to make it a success again.

Rajeev Masand: Well, best of luck and looking forward to seeing lots more from you

Asin: Thank you.

Bollywood's Youth Icons

Indiatimes Movies conducted a poll on 'Bollywood's Youth Icons'. We present to you the results

1. Shahid Kapoor

Actor Shahid Kapoor has been voted the ideal 'Youth Icon' in a poll conducted by Indiatimes Movies. He secured 38 per cent of the votes.

The actor made a bang with his film, 'Jab We Met'. And is not looking back. Known to possess Shah Rukh Khan's charm coupled with Aamir Khan's perfectionism, Shahid Kapoor is a teetotaler and doesn't smoke. His once-upon-a-time affair with Kareena Kapoor was much talked about. Though there have been link-ups with Vidya Balan and Sania Mirza, the guy is still single and ready to mingle.

2. Hrithik Roshan

Actor Hrithik Roshan came second place with 30 per cent votes.

His Greek God looks, perfect body and down-to-earth attitude, makes Hrithik Roshan an easy choice. His act in 'Jodhaa Akbar' went down well with the masses. Having struck gold at the box office even in his dad Rakesh Roshan's films, Hrithik became a household name with ad commercials. A one-woman man, the actor tends to steer clear of controversies.

3. Abhsihek Bachchan

Actor Abhishek Bachchan comes third in the 'Youth Icon' poll.

Actor Abhishek Bachchan has come back into the reckoning post his 'Dostana' act. The guy who has married the most beautiful girl in the world, Aishwarya Rai secured 16 per cent votes in the 'Youth Icon' poll. After movies like 'Sarkar Raj', and 'Guru', actor Abhishek Bachchan is one to be taken seriously. And his 'mobile-service' ad has also contributed to his popularity quotient.

4. John Abraham

Actor John Abraham came fourth in the 'Youth Icon' poll.

The actor became the talk of the town when he did his 'butt' act in 'Dostana'. He was also hailed 'gay icon' and 'sexiest man in Asia'. John is known to endorse products that are very young – cola, motorbikes, jeans... His love for bikes and gadgets makes him 'cool' and helps him connect to a younger audience. His fetish for fitness, too, makes him the ideal choice.

5. Saif Ali Khan

Actor Saif Ali Khan makes it to the fifth position in the 'Youth Icon' poll.

The actor is more talked about today because of his rollicking affair with Kareena Kapoor. However, Saif has revamped himself on the big screen and is ahead in the 'race'. With pictures such as 'Race' and 'Omkara', Saif Ali Khan is sought after today. He has also embarked upon production by starting his own home production. His first will be a movie directed by Imtiaz Ali and starring Deepika Padukone.

John Travolta's 16-year-old son dies in Bahamas

John Travolta's teenage son, Jett, died in the Bahamas after falling ill and hitting his head at his family's vacation home, police said Friday. A house caretaker found Jett, 16, unconscious in a bathroom late Friday morning. He was taken by ambulance to a Freeport hospital, where he was pronounced dead, according to a statement from chief police superintendent Basil Rahming.

The teenager had last been seen going into the bathroom on Thursday and had a history of seizures, according to the statement. Police said they are planning an autopsy to determine the cause of death.

Another police spokeswoman, Loretta Mackey, said Jett apparently hit his head on the bathtub.

A spokeswoman for Rand Memorial Hospital in Freeport said she could not release any information because of privacy concerns.

Jett was the oldest child of Travolta and his wife, actress Kelly Preston, who also have an 8-year-old daughter. The family arrived on a private plane Tuesday and had been vacationing at their home in the Old Bahama Bay resort community.

"The Travolta family has become like family to us at Old Bahama Bay and we extend our deepest sympathies to them," said Robert Gidel, president of Ginn Resorts, the property's owner.

World's oldest woman dies in Portugal aged 115

In this Sept. 10, 2006 file photo Maria de Jesus, looks at the candles on her birthday cake as she celebrated her one hundred and thirteen year borthday in Corujo, Portugal, 150km north of Lisbon. A woman who lived to see five of her great-great grandchildren born and was believed to have been the world's oldest person living, has died in northwest Portugal at the age of 115, officials said Friday Jan. 2, 2009. De Jesus, who lived to reach 115 years and 114 days and was listed by the Guinness Book of World Records and the Gerontology Research Group as the world's oldest person, died in an ambulance near the town of Tomar.

A Portuguese woman who lived to see five of her great-great grandchildren born and was believed to have been the world's oldest person died on Friday at the age of 115, officials said.

Maria de Jesus died in an ambulance near the central Portuguese town of Tomar, town council officials said.

She had been listed by the Guinness Book of World Records as the world's oldest person. That title now falls to an American, 114-year-old Gertrude Baines, who lives in a Los Angeles nursing home.

Born Sept. 10, 1893, de Jesus was widowed at 57, outlived three of her six children, had 11 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

On Friday, she ate breakfast normally, but then was taken to hospital because of a swelling, her daughter Maria Madalena told state news agency Lusa, without elaborating.

De Jesus was 115 years and 114 days old.

"I regret the death of this lady, she really was the sweetest person," town councilor Ivo Santos said in Tomar, central Portugal, 135 kilometers (84 miles) north of Lisbon.

There are now only 82 women and nine men verified as being 110 or older, according to gerontologist Dr. Stephen Coles of the Gerontology Research Group at the University of California, Los Angeles.

But he said there could be hundreds more in places such as China, India or Africa where they would not have caught the attention of the Gerontology Research Group, a small volunteer organization that tracks supercentenarians and verifies their birth dates through birth certificates and other documents.

Coles said the supercentenarians appear to share one trait that might account for their longevity — they come from families whose members are long-lived.

"Whether they drink alcohol or not, it doesn't matter. Whether they smoke cigarettes or not doesn't seem to matter," he said. "The thing that does seem to matter is that they chose their parents wisely."

"It's in the genes. It's in the DNA," he said.

Baines — the new titleholder, born in Georgia on April 6, 1894 — spent most of her life in Ohio, where she worked as a dormitory housekeeper at Ohio State University in Columbus, Coles said. Her only daughter died at age 18.

Coles said he asked the staff at Western Convalescent Hospital to tell Baines she is now the oldest living documented person in the world.

"She's very healthy. Her only complaint, as far as I can tell, is arthritis in her left knee," he said. She uses a wheelchair.

He described her as mentally sharp, saying "she doesn't forget anything."

Baines voted in the November presidential election, the Los Angeles Times reported.

She voted for Barack Obama "'cause he's for the colored people," said Baines, who is black and the daughter of former slaves.

Bollywood Movie Ghajini End Of Love...Video

Movie Name: GHAJINI

Cast: Aamir Khan, Asin, Jiah Khan

Director: A.R.Murugadoss

Producer: Allu Arvind, Madhu

Lyrics: Prasoon Joshi

Cinematography: Ravi K. Chandran

Editing: Anthony

Art Direction: Sunil Babu

Screenplay: A.R. Murugadoss

Story Writer: A.R. Murugadoss

Action Direction: Peter Heins

Bollywood Movies Hits of 2008

All ye' Bollywood fans and Bollywood lovers are interested in knowing which indeed was the most successful Bollywood movie of 2008. Is it Ghajini or Golmaal Returns? Or is there other clear winner? What do trade guides show? Which Bollywood movie truly rocked 2008? Is the most successful Bollywood movie of 2008, also your favorite movie?

Presenting here are the hits, superhits and blockbusters Bollywood movies of 2008, including a brief review. The movies are arranged according to their time of release.

1. Jodhaa Akbar : Released on February 15' 2008, Jodhaa Akbar, directed by Bollywood most prolific director Ashutosh Gowariker, was a semi hit. It went on to do a business of Rs. 62 crores. Hrithik Roshan was the USP of the film, he played Akbar so well that the historic figure is now synonymous with the actor.

2. Race: Released on March 21' 2008, Race was the first big hit of 2008. An edge of the seat thriller, the movie directed by Abbas-Mustan was full of twists and turns. As of May 30, it grossed Rs.63,67,00,000 ($14,886,600) in India, and $9,505,321 in other parts bringing a worldwide total of $24,391,921. Race is actually the fifth biggest hit of 2008.

3. Jannat: Jannat, directed by Kunal Deshmukh, was a Mukesh Bhatt film, released on May 16. Based on cricket betting, the movie extracted the career best performance of Emran Hashmi. Debutante Sonal Chauhan made a pretty picture in the movie. Jannat grossed 32,47,00,000 in 5 weeks, quite higher than its cost of production.

4. Aamir: One of the dark horse hits of 2008, Aamir directed by Raj Kumar Gupta released on June 6. The movie starring Rajeev Khandelwal was a story about how an innocent man gets trapped in the hands of religious extremists who want to bomb the city. An interesting premise, the movie did good business.

5. Sarkar Raj: Sarkar Raj, directed by Ram Gopal Verma released on June 6 2008. The movie was a semi-hit; people compared Sarkar Raj to its prequel Sarkar, and found that the sequel was not as effective as the first one. Nevertheless, it grossed 34 crores in India in its first two weeks and over $1 million in the USA.

6. Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na: Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na, released on July 4 2008; directed by Abbas Tyrewala and produced by Aamir Khan, was the iconic movie of 2008. The movie was a blazing hit and it is still the favorites of the youth segment, which forms a major part of the movie going audience. The youthful movie had a cliched but entertaining story with fantastic music by A.R.Rahman. in 5 weeks, it earned approximately 52.96 crores.

7. Singh is Kinng: Singh is Kinng was a movie, all Akshay Kumar fans were waiting for. Released on August 8, 2008; the movie recorded the biggest advance booking in the history of Bollywood, second only to Ghajini. With a fantastic figure of Rs.44 crores in the first week, Singh is Kinng was the fourth biggest hit of Bollywood 2008. By September, it had already earned Rs.73 crores.

8. Bachna Ae Haseeno: Released on August 15, 2008, Bachna Ae Haseeno proved to be a solace for Yash Raj films which had only given flops before this, in 2008 like Tashan and Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic. Made on a budget of Rs.18 crores, this Ranbir Kapoor earned Rs.31.20 crores in its second week, and was declared a semi hit.

9. Phoonk: Phoonk directed by Ram Gopal Verma was probably the least expensive movie, which did good business. The movie based on black magic was a success because of the subject.

10. Mumbai Meri Jaan: Mumbai Meri Jaan, released on August 22' 2008 was a movie based on 7/11 bomb blasts. A slightly documentary style film, it focussed on the repercussions of the bomb blasts. The movie was an an above average hit. The USP of the film was a power packed performance by Paresh Rawal and Irrfan Khan.

11. Rock On!!: Rock On (released August 29' 2008) , directed by Abhishek Kapoor and produced by Farhan Akhtar, was another youth favorite, like Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na. Based on friendship and rock music, Rock On was treated like a sequel to the cult movie Dil Chahta Hai. It made singer-actor-producer-director (phew!) Farhan Akhtar, a household name.

12. A Wednesday: A Wednesday, released on September 5 2008, is the dark horse success of 2008. A powerful script, impeccable dialogues and a unique treatment by director Neeraj Pandey, made this probably the most watchable movie of 2008. Naseerudin Shah proved that he is inimitable when it comes to stellar performance.

13. 1920: A spooky movie directed by Vikram Bhatt (released Sep 12' 08) was high on horror around a haunted palatial house. Newbies Rajneesh Duggal and Adah Sharma gave a spirited (no pun intended!) performance. The fantastic English locales and visual effects proved to be the USP of the film.

14. Welcome to Sajjanpur: Welcome to Sajjanpur, released on September 19 2008 was director Shyam Benegal's entry to commercial cinema. The movie shot in rural set-up brought back memories of Malgudy Days and fared well at the box office.

15. Fashion: Fashion directed by Madhur Bhandarkar, gave a push to Priyanka Chopra who went down-slide with four back to back flops in 2008. It appealed to the youth and the upper crust and did good business.

16. Golmaal Returns: Released on the same date as Fashion (October 29' 2008) , Golmaal Returns was a run-away super hit. Though marred by critics, it was declared a huge success by the masses. It surpassed the first day totals of Om Shanti Om, last year, by collecting 22.03 lakhs on day one. This Rohit Shetty venture earned Rs.48 crores in the first week, making it the third biggest hit of 2008.

17. Dostana: Dostana directed by Tarun Mansukhani for Karan Johar released on November 14' 2008. The story of two men Abhishek Bachchan and John Abraham, who pretend to be gays, and fall in love with eye-candy Priyanka Chopra made the box office smile. By December 12, it had already earned Rs.80 crores.

18. Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi: One of the much awaited movies, the Shahrukh Khan starrer Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, released on December 12'08. Made on a modest budget of Rs.22 crores by Yash Raj standards, Aditya Chopra directed this movie to success. The movie also featured debutante Anushka Sharma. Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi earned 7.5 crore net all over India and by day 1, and earned Rs.44.5 crores by week 1. Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi is the second biggest hit of 2008.

19. Ghajini: The most awaited movie Ghajini, proved to be a record breaking success. The most successful movie of the year and perhaps one of the all time big hits, this Aamir Khan movie directed by A.Murgadoss proved recession cannot beat quality. Released on December 25, 2008, this remake of the Southern movie of the same name is running quite strong, thanks to the Aamir Khan brand power. On Day 1, Ghajini earned Rs.33 crores, (compared to Rs.18 crore of Rab Ne) worldwide, something which is unheard off. Ghajini is all set to pass Rs.100 crores in three weeks, overtaking the lines of previous two years biggies Om Shanti Om (Rs.80 crores) and Dhoom 2 (Rs.85 crores).

Conclusion 2008: Ghajini has proved to be a big money spinner for Bollywood. The year 2008 has pooled in 15 percent or Rs.900 crore more than last year. Call it the Pareto Principal, if you will but Rab Ne and Ghajini have added another 20 percent more to the box office collection of movies preceding them. Masala films and movies based on 'terror issues' dominated 2008.

So, here is the countdown of the top 5 films of Bollywood 2008:
5. Race
4. Singh is Kinng
3. Golmaal Returns
2. Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi
1. Ghajini

Movies to watch out for in 2009

Bollywood Movies to watch out for in 2009

We're done with 2008.

It's been a middling year, and here's a list of big-screen spectacular releases to look forward to next year. Things can only get better.

Chandni Chowk To China

Akshay Kumar strikes again. The Kung Fu Hustle style trailer is the the funnest looking in a long time, and Nikhil Advani's far too polished a director to let his scripts get completely asinine. Not that it matters, when its a masala film promising the spectacular and Kumar -- the man who doesn't seem capable to planting a mainstream foot wrong -- is in the centre of things.

3 Idiots

Ace director Rajkumar Hirani finally moves outside of his fabulous Munna and Circuit characters to take on the Indian education system.

The director has confirmed that this film is an original script, and not based on Chetan Bhagat's Five Point Someone (a good piece of news to all of those people who sat through the execrable Hello). Aamir Khan, Kareena Kapoor, Sharman Joshi make for an interesting cast, but we're all just waiting to see Hirani bat again.

Delhi-6

Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra became one of the most respected directors in the industry with his apathy-shattering Rang De Basanti a couple of years ago, and we've had to wait three years to see what he does next.

This one is a take on a seamy, colourful, mad part of Delhi called Delhi-6, and stars Abhishek Bachchan opposite Sonam Kapoor. We're expecting texture and metaphor, and the current trailer has our curiosity piqued. Bring it on.

My Name Is Khan

Karan Johar seems to completely have dropped the K, and the subject matter for his next Shah Rukh Khan starrer is intriguing, to say the least: Khan plays a man targetted at an airport because of his last name and his religion, and that discrimination gives rise to many a question.

Then again, the film's been written by Shibani Bhatija, who wrote Fanaa and Kidnap, so maybe we shouldn't go in expecting answers.

Kaminay

Vishal Bhardwaj leaves Shakespeare out of the mix this time with this magnificently named project, starring Shahid Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra. Remember, this is the man who showed us just how capable Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor were, so it's wise to prepare for fireworks.

The film's story is still closely guarded, but all we know is that Taare Zameen Par writer Amole Gupte plays the villain in the film. Whatever, man. We're sold on Bhardwaj and that fantastic title.

Kambakkht Ishq

Akshay Kumar and Kareena Kapoor star in this massive budget film about an Indian stuntman who becomes a sensation across Hollywood. The film features several prominent Hollywood players, including Sylvester Stallone, Carmen Electra, Bondgirl Denise Richards and Superman star Brandon Routh.

It's quite a coup by Bollywood standards, and one hopes for an entertaining evening of big-screen proportions

Imtiaz Ali's next film

After making Socha Na Tha and Jab We Met on a decidedly comedic note, director Imtiaz Ali has chosen to tread the relatively unpopulated romantic-drama waters for his next film, one starring Saif Ali Khan and Deepika Padukone.

The film is currently jetting around the world and shooting everywhere, and we're just curious to see what Imtiaz does next.

Alladin

Sujoy Ghosh's film has been in production for the longest time. Ritesh Deshmukh stars as Alladin while Amitabh Bachchan takes on the role of the genie in this rather zany take on the original.

The film is a special effects spectacular and by now, we just want to see what in the world has taken this long to make.

Wake Up Sid

Director Ayaan Mukherji makes his debut with this film that promises to be interesting simply because of its unconventional pairing.

Ranbir Kapoor, pinup boy-to-be and current heart-throb of the masses, cast opposite indie queen Konkona Sensharma? We're waiting to see how these two very different genre-representatives get along, and the title sounds fun too.

Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani

Katrina Kaif stars opposite Ranbir Kapoor in this film by Raj Kumar Santoshi. That's right, the socially aware blockbuster-maker is back with a film that sounds pretty darned unusual.

The casting is a bit of a coup, the kind of casting that leaves these kids out to fend for themselves without being able to fall back on a massive banner or Akshay Kumar. Salman Khan, however, does make an appearance.

Bollywood Actress Katrina Kaif Video

Hollywood Actress Jessica Alba in Goa?

Tamil film industry's promising director of the year Venkat Prabhu has approached hot Hollywood actress Jessica Alba for his forthcoming movie Goa.

Produced by Soundarya Rajinikant in association with Hollywood's
Warner Bros, the film is going to hit the floors soon.

According to the script, there are two more heroines in the movie, and it is said that talks are on with Sneha and Genelia for the same. Venkat Prabhu wants to include a hot actress as the third heroine of the film.

He has revealed his wish to Soundarya and the same was conveyed to Warner Bros too. Sources close to Venkat say that the actress has asked for a script which has been send to her through her manager.

The movie has Jai, Vaibhav, Premji Amaren and Arvind Akash in the lead, and is said to be a road film in which a group of friends
go on a trip to Goa. This is the third directorial venture by Venkat Prabhu, after Chennai 600028 and Saroja.

GHAJINI is all set to be India’s first 100 crore film

While it’s obvious by now that GHAJINI would break the opening record (currently held by SINGH IS KINNG that made 44 crores at the end of the first week), talks have steered towards a speculation if at the end of it’s run, this Aamir Khan starrer would go on to be country’s first film to net 100 crores. Well to put this speculation to rest, after observing the GHAJINI mania closely for the last 10 days, I can safely presume that we are indeed looking at a 100 crores milestone being comfortably crossed.

If one looks at the figures pouring in, it isn’t rocket science actually to be able to deduce such momentous figure for the film. Wednesday preview shows, Thursday’s limited shows and Friday’s full fledged release (with RAB NE BANA DI JODI and other films in the running vacating some shows after Thursday) have brought in a mind boggling 20 crores already (this number could go up to 22 crores pending confirmation). With better collections over Saturday and Sunday, considering the fact that advance booking has already broken records all over), the 44 crores first week record of SINGH IS KINNG is all set to be broken by GHAJINI in it’s weekend itself.

Even with a 50% fall in collections on the weekdays (which is on the higher side though considering this is a festive season all the way into the New Year and quite a few patrons are already on a vacation mood), 20 crores more are comfortably expected to be added on between Monday to Thursday. Add them all up and first week of GHAJINI could well be heading towards the 65 crores mark. Conservatively speaking, with a fall steeper than 50%, 60 crores first week is given.

With two more open weeks to follow before the release of CHANDNI CHOWK TO CHINA (on 16th January), it is inevitable that GHAJINI would go on to add at least 40 crores more. Though probability is that this number would be achieved in the fortnight to come at least, even in the worst case scenario we are looking at 100 crores milestone being comfortably met before the film’s run comes to an end.

Aamir Khan has done it. And he has done it in a BIG way!!

Have a great Year For All - 2009

Fireworks over the Millenium Wheel in London

* HAPPY NEW YEAR
Fresh Air....
Fresh Idea....
Fresh Talent....
Fresh Energy....
I wish U to have a .....
Sweetest Sunday,
Marvellous Monday,
Tasty Tuesday,
Wonderful Wednesday,
Thankful Thursday,
Friendly Friday,
Successful Saturday.
Have a great Year.

HAPPY NEW YEAR