Akshay Oberoi INTERVIEW

Vivek’s actor-cousin Akshay Oberoi is Salman’s fan!

Debutant Akshay Oberoi, who happens to be the first cousin of Vivek Oberoi, happens to be a Salman Khan fan!

Cousin of Vivek Oberoi and the new face of Rajshri Productions, Akshay Oberoi is surprisingly a Salman Khan fan! The newcomer even prefers to 'follow' his icon 'Salman Khan' on Twitter and in real life over his own cousin Vivek!

We chatted up the youngster on his filmy lineage, equation with Salman and foray into Bollywood.

Salman Khan has been promoting you and your 'debut' Rajshri film, inspite of you being Vivek Oberoi's cousin!
It feels great. I have always been a Salman fan. I've met him a couple of times and he does guides youngsters indeed. I am always star struck when I meet him. He has encouraged me a lot. Salman has even played a cameo in my forthcoming film 'Issi Life Mein'.

Salman's infamous spat with Vivek is known to all.
The film industry is like a family. Salman and Vivek are like two brothers within the family and differences happen.

So have you replaced Salman as Rajshri's most lovable hero 'Prem'?

Not at all. Nobody can replace Salman as Rajshri's Prem. He is the iconic Prem. I play Vivaan in the film who works in theatre and wants to achieve everything in this very life. His father wants him to be a CA/ CFA but he wants to live life on his terms. My film is a love story.

Did Vivek inspire to act in films?

I've been in love with films since I was 10 years old. My filmy lineage did play an important role but Vivek and I have lived our life apart. I was in US, studying acting, theatre at The Johns Hopkins University, US. We haven't interacted much. We don't meet up often either. But I am sure he wishes well for me. I loved his work in Saathiya, Company and Rakta Charitra.

How did you get the big break with Rajshri?

I struggled as an actor for a year before I auditioned for this role. I am glad I got selected. They are one of the best production houses we have here.

Rajshri receive a lot of flak for their never ending songs in films.
'Issi Life Mein' is unlike your typical Rajshri film in many ways. Though the core Rajshri family values are in place, it's more about dreams and fulfilling your dreams than marriages!

‘Preity Zinta (INTERVIEW) is simply the best’

‘Preity is simply the best’

He’s bowled over by the bubbly Miss Zinta, and can’t wait to roam the greens of India’s tiger sanctuaries.

After all, roots do count, right? Ravi Bopara, English cricketer of Indian origin, and now, Kings XI Punjab player, chats with PT about the IPL and more

Describe the Indian Premiere League experience...
Cricket is fun here. This tournament has changed the format of classical cricket. I never thought it would be so exciting. We are playing against cricketers from all across the globe, millions of people are watching it, and so many celebrities have lent their name to it... What better platform could a cricketer hope for?

Would you have enjoyed the tournament better had it been held in India?
I had heard so much about IPL. I was looking forward to playing in India, travelling across cities and soaking in all the excitement. I have a family back in India, and wanted to visit those places. But, things have changed. I’m keeping my fingers crossed for next time!

Graham Gooch called you a “very bubbly, infectious character” to have in the dressing room. Have you bonded well with the very bubbly team owner, Preity Zinta?
Oh, she is simply the best! Her presence can be a major boost for the team. She chats with everyone, understands what the team is all about and can offer solutions in an instant. Her communication and coordination skills are fantastic. Now that I’ve seen her as a team owner, I plan to get the DVDs of all her films to catch her as an actor. I want to see this dynamic lady celebrating with the team after winning this tournament.

But the rain is playing spoilsport...
The weather can actually impact the league table. But, I believe that fortune favours the brave. As every team is facing the vagaries of weather now, we should just concentrate on performance.

You have players like Yuvraj Singh, Kumar Sangakkara and Irfan Pathan in the team. How is it sharing the dressing room with them?
When you play with legendary cricketers from South Africa
, India, New Zealand and other countries, you get to know how they draw up their strategies, how they get themselves into match-winning form, and how they analyse other’s players. Each member of the team has something new to offer. And Yuvraj and the others are simply great!

Your views on Yuvi’s captaincy...
He is a leader, not a boss and that’s why he is so well accepted in the team.

Which team do you think has the best chances this year?
My own team, of course, as this is the most balanced squad. But then, the format of the game is such that you can’t really predict anything. It all depends on how a batsman or bowler performs on that particular day. Hyderabad, Delhi and Chennai have experienced players, who are capable of changing the situation in a single match.

What’s the one thing you want to do, when you visit India?
I just want to meet the people there. I am also an animal lover, and have heard a lot about India’s tiger sanctuaries. So, I’ll make it a point to spend a whole day at one of the tiger sanctuaries there.

source:timesofindia

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

Saif Ali Khan’s and Rosa Catalano’s Relationship

‘I still love Saif Ali Khan

Rosa Catalano’s Interview

Rosa Catalano’s only claim to fame (so far) is that she’s Saif Ali Khan’s ex-girlfriend. But after her relationship with the Chhote Nawab went

kaput, Rosa tried hard (and is still trying) to find a foothold in Bollywood. Rosa, who was first seen as a model at a fashion week in India, has been embroiled in several controversies. She lowers her guard and tells us about the controversies...

While in a relationship with Saif Ali Khan, did you at any point feel overshadowed by him?
Initially, I felt that since I was just a model, my image was being overshadowed. But later, I got used to it.

You seem to have enjoyed the limelight while he was a part of your life?
I was in a relationship with Saif. And that was the only thing I cared about. I still love him and I really enjoyed that limelight.

What was the reason for your break-up with Saif?
As it’s something very personal, I don’t want to comment on it.

Are you dating someone right now?
No, I am not but I would like to be in love. But this time, I will really think twice before falling in love.

In an interview you said you would love to pose nude. Will you pose nude for any Hollywood or Bollywood film?
It depends. I would love to do the same for charity, but not for money.

How does it feel to see Saif with Kareena?
Love is a beautiful thing. It’s not easy at times, but it’s worth experiencing. I am happy if Saif is happy with her.

What do you like about India?
I’m a very spiritual person and I love the country’s spiritual side. I just visited the Ajanta and Ellora caves. It was a unique experience. India is beautiful if you know how and where to look.

source:timesofindia

Director Nishikanth Kamath Interview

Nishikanth KamathFilming Mumbai's fight for survival

After making the critically acclaimed Marathi film, Dombivili Fast -- which he remade in Tamil with R Madhavan called Evano Oruvan -- Nishikant Kamath directs his first Hindi film, Mumbai Meri Jaan.

A sensitive film, Mumbai Meri Jaan is set against the backdrop of the Mumbai train blasts two years ago. The film traces the lives of certain people -- played by Paresh Rawal [Images], Irrfan Khan [Images], R Madhavan, Kay Kay Menon and Soha Ali Khan [Images] -- and how they react to the train blasts.

Nishikanth Kamath talks to Patcy N, and tells us what prompted him to make such a sensitive film.

You have made movies in Marathi, Tamil and Hindi. Any specific reason?
I work for whatever projects come my way, and appeal to me. I don't look into languages.

How did you decide on Mumbai Meri Jaan?
I wanted to write a script for a long time but could not think of a suitable topic. I was out of town when the Mumbai train blasts occurred. When I returned, I saw so many people, who were very shaken, but taking a hold of their emotions and lives. So I decided to base my story on human emotions and their fight for survival, rather than the tragedy.


How did you get UTV Motion Pictures to produce this film?
UTV and I have been looking forward to working with each other for a long time. When I got the idea of Mumbai Meri Jaan, I spoke to them and they readily agreed.
The difficult period started later when it took me about nine months to write the entire script.

What research did you do?
The emotional stories were all fictional. I did not want to go up to people, talk to them about their stories and make them feel bad. Besides, this film is about human emotions -- the calamity could have been anything from riots to floods.


I am not talking about the conspiracy. My story starts after the blasts.

Tell us about Mumbai Meri Jaan?
The film was shot last year during the rains. The shooting was done mostly on the streets. We shot in bylanes and crowded places. Sometimes, it was difficult to shoot because the crowd would become unmanageable. On two occasions, we had to cancel the shoot.

How did you manage to rope in so many talented actors in one film?
That was the easiest part. After finishing the script, I narrated it to all the actors I wanted in the film. Everyone liked it and they were immediately cast.

I am happy with all my actors; I liked everybody's work.

What next?
I have not decided yet. I will not do anything for the next six months or maybe even two years. I work at my own pace. I work when work comes to me and it pleases me.

source:rediff.com/movies

Soha Ali Khan Says Mumbai Meri Jaan

‘SO WHAT IF SAIF DISAPPROVED?’
Mom liked my (itsy-bitsy) pictures, says Soha Ali Khan, who’s getting an image makeover that she doesn’t need!

Soha Ali Khan started out as a banker, today, after spending five years in Bollywood, she feels very much at home. In fact, looking back she now finds her stint as a banker out of character. “Your persona is moulded by what you do. I am more of an actor than a banker, definitely. I am more suited to this world,” she says. “My family is in the industry. So yes, I am quite at home here.” Appreciated as a serious actor, Soha had people taken aback when she posed in itsy-bitsy clothes recently.

“I am not looking for an image makeover, I don’t need it,” she laughs. And so what if brother Saif was upset with the pictures, Soha says mom Sharmila had no problems. “Mom thought they were pretty tame. She is very progressive. During her time she was the trendsetter, so this is nothing,” adds Soha. Her next release Mumbai Meri Jaan, based on the July 2006 blasts, has Soha playing a television journalist. “Rang De Basanti was the turning point in my career. The roles I have been offered post Rang De... are extremely good,” she says. But none as yet are with Saif. “Someone has to come up with a great script. I am not going to play just the hero’s sister,” she laughs. She’s uncomfortable talking about her relationship with him.


“What I feel for him, what we do, how we fight, how we’ve been brought up... all I can say is that we are like any other brother-sister... normal,” she says. Ditto her relationship with South star Siddharth. “I have grown up seeing my parents being photographed. People can ask me whatever they want, but whether or not I answer them is upto me,” she declares.

Indian Actress REVATHI Interview

REVATHI

‘I like doing something new’

Her’s is a face anybody in the country would recognise, thanks to the films she has either acted in or directed. As an actor this versatile performer displayed a rare combination of innocence, vulnerability and mischief, using her eyes and smile to maximum advantage.

Then as a film director, she made waves with her films ‘Mitr, my friend and ‘Phir Milenge’, dealing with bold themes in such a sensitive manner that she won both critical and popular acclaim. So it was no surprise that she won five Filmfare Best Actress Awards and a National award for Best Director (English). Yet she is still yearning for new forms of artistic expression. That’s where theatre comes in, she tells you.

In unchartered territory, Has she been busy with theatre since 2004 when she made the path-breaking ‘Phir Milenge’? No, theatre is a recent development, she confesses. After ‘Phir Milenge’, she has been busy making the Hindi film ‘Mumbai Cutting’. Unlike her earlier feature films, ‘Mumbai Cutting’ is a string of 11 short stories presented by 11 directors in what will be released this September. Here she is in the company of Sudhir Mishra, Jahnu Barua, Rituparno Ghosh, Anurag Kashyap, Shashank Ghosh, Rahul Dholakia, Ayush Raina, Ruchi Narain, Kundan Shah and Manish Jha to offer a glimpse of life in Mumbai and tries to find a reason why and how the city influences people who come there and survive adversities.

Short films are a natural progression for this creative artist. “I just cannot do the same thing again and again. I always want to do something new; in my film roles, in the themes I make films on, or now in trying to do theatre. I will definitely act in films if the role challenges me and I haven’t made a film in a South Indian language yet simply because I have not found a suitable subject. That’s just the way I am,” she explains.

Theatre, her latest venture

Elaborating on her move to theatre, Revathi says, “I have not been involved in theatre till recently, though I have been watching plays for some time. I met Arundhati Nag a few years back and followed her work through the building of Rangashankara. When she asked me whether I would be interested in acting on stage, I wondered ‘why not’ because theatre is an actor’s ultimate paradise. It is all part of an artist’s growth. But I was aware that theatre is a different experience, that you have to remember all your lines and deliver without retakes.

That’s why I wanted something small.” Which is why Chetan Datar’s original ‘1, Madhav Bagh’ which can actually run for 90 minutes has been abridged to just 35 minutes for her. Since her theatre debut with her solo act for this play in October 97 at Bangalore, Revathi has grown confident enough to consider another theatrical venture, if it excites her. Otherwise she is back on familiar territory, currently working on her next Hindi feature film.

source:timesofindia

Finally Aamir agreed," said the 24-year actress Manjari Phadnis

‘I wasn’t Aamir Khan's choice for Jaane Tu’
...says Manjari Phadnis, who played the second lead in the hit film opposite debutant Imran

With a flop for a debut and an unsuccessful stint in the South, Manjari Phadnis, who played the second lead opposite debutant Imran in the hit flick Jaane Tu... Ya Jaane Naa, was hardly producer Aamir Khan's choice as he had his reservations in casting her for the role.

"Aamir did not want to cast me. I was the only one among the entire cast who was not approved by Aamir. But director Abbas Tyrewala was adamant," Manjari reveals.
"Almost 400 girls were auditioned for the role of Meghna and Abbas thought I fitted it the best. Finally Aamir agreed," said the 24-year-old-actress.

While Jaane Tu... launched Aamir's nephew Imran as an actor, it is also Abbas' first outing as a director. And Manjari says that Aamir didn't interfere much as he was busy with his directorial debut.
"Aamir left everything to Abbas as he was busy shooting for Taare Zameen Par'during that time. He used to come to the sets for a while and I did not have any long interaction with him during the entire shooting schedule."

But when Aamir saw the final product, he was impressed by Manjari's work.
"I was overwhelmed when he appreciated my work after seeing the film. It was a great achievement to get a compliment from a person like Aamir, who is one of the biggest superstars of the country."
Manjari said it was a life time opportunity for a newcomer like her to work with Aamir Khan productions.
"People like me, who do not come from a film background, have to struggle a lot for a good banner and a right film. I really thank Aamir for giving me the opportunity."
Manjari's career slumped after her debut film in 2004 Rok Sako To Rok Lo bombed at the box office. In the last four years, she did a few films in the south and one Hindi movie titled Mumbai Salsa.
"Though my films did not do well, the roles excited me. I was patient and did not accept just anything that came my way."
Asked why she wasn't seen in any of the pre-release promotions, she said: "I was told from the first day that I will be not be there in the promotion and I accepted it. I am happy people saw me as a surprise package."
But isn't that the normal practiced for big stars? "Yes, I know but I had to accept it."
She admits promotion would have worked better for her career, saying: "Yes, definitely. I would have surely liked if they would have promoted me a bit. But, people have started recognising me after Jaane Tu."
Manjari is getting a lot of offers after Jaane Tu..."I have not finalised any of them. I am doing a couple of films in the South and going through the scripts that came my way. I will only sign a film when the story excites me and I have a good role to play."
Manjari's next release will be a comedy film I am 24 which has Rajat Kapoor, Ranvir Shorey and Neha Dhupia among others.

source:timesofindia

Kiran Rao ‘Working with Aamir is intense

Kiran Rao is venturing into the territory of independent filmmaking with her own production house — a part of the overall banner of Aamir Khan Productions, she emphasises — and will be directing the film Dhobi Ghaat. The industry has several couples, both of whom are actors or singers, but there is no couple where the husband and wife are both directors. There is no couple where they are both producers. And there certainly is no couple where the husband and wife are both producers and directors — who, as Aamir subtly adds, “think differently”.

What’s made her chart this course and how does she see cinema differently? Kiran says, “The reason I started an independent company is because I am interested in cinema for cinema’s sake. I don’t understand the dynamics of commercial cinema very well. I watch a lot of films, experimental, avantgrade, animation — I’d like to see more films like the one I am making. I feel it needs encouragement of a different nature from commercial cinema, which is driven by market requirements. Besides the films I direct, as a producer I hope to take up subjects that mainstream producers will shy away from handling.”


Now that she’s his spouse, what’s it like working with Aamir? “It’s exciting and intense, and yet a lot of fun,” she replies. “I knew that working with him was something I would love to do all my life. We work well together, and while as professionals we have our own aesthetics, our own ideas, we still understand each other and have a lot of common ground... But while we don’t discuss cinema in general too often, we certainly keep talking about the things that we are doing, our plans. That doesn’t just come to the dining table, it comes to the bed, the bath, the balcony, pretty much everywhere!”

Have they changed each other since they met? Kiran goes first here. “I was very idealistic about cinema, and didn’t quite understand the realities, the things that drive cinema. He’s sensitised me much more to the process. He’s also shown me how important it is to listen. I used to be pretty dismissive of what other people thought. He listens to everybody, then does what he feels is right. I still haven’t got there, but I’m trying. When you’re with someone you are happiest with, it changes how much you are able to give of yourself. I think my relationship with him has made me more compassionate. What this has done to me is that not just do I need more, but I give more, personally as well as creatively.”

Quid pro, Aamir? “I think there’s been a dramatic change in me as a person. I am much more easygoing, I’m much more relaxed … She came into my life when I was going through my worst phase, personally, and things have looked up after that. Her personality is so bright, happy and vivacious that it is infectious. That has a strong effect on me. And our relationship is such that we are friends first.” And then he reflects, “Maybe, for me, the change after we came together has been much more personal. For her, it has been much more professional.”

Aamir lights up and one asks Kiran, how are you letting him get away with smoking? “Nobody lets Aamir ‘get away’ with anything,” she laughs. “He does what he wants to, pretty much. I know he’ll put it aside soon, once he decides to. You see, Aamir has an amazingly obsessive personality. When he latches on to something, he just doesn’t let go... Like when he was training, he’d spend four hours, five hours a day in the gym. Nothing is by half measures. Everything he does is by heaped measures!”

source:timesofindia.com

Bollywood Actress 'Sameera Reddy' ...Her Relationship

‘It’s difficult playing dumb!’
Sameera Reddy’s all set for comedies, animation and even TV this year

Ask Sameera Reddy anything other than work-related questions and she refuses to get drawn into controversial area. So anything to do with her relationship with ex-boyfriend builder Shamshul Lalani remains unanswered. “I will never comment on my personal life. That’s one thing I guard more than anything,” she says. However, we press her to at least put an end to all those rumours doing the rounds about her seeing cricket’s poster boy Ishant Sharma. “I supported Shah Rukh Khan’s team in the IPL and so, I must have been seen at a lot of matches. That must have created some silly rumour. The less said, the better about it,” she says. But was she seen with Ishant in particular? “I met the whole team,” she says refusing to get further drawn into the conversation.

Talk about work and Sam is more than glad to answer. “I recently had an amazing schedule for Red Alert which is based on the Naxalite movement. It’s a very interesting role that sees me transform from a simple village girl to a coldhearted killer,” she says about her role. Some portions of the film were shot in forest areas which totally creeped her out! “I don’t like keeda-makodas and here, I had to be bare-feet and have grasshoppers and other kind of insects crawl over my feet. I used to get paranoid!” she shudders at the memory.


The actress is also veering towards comedy these days, especially after getting good reviews for her dumb-girl act in Race. “Believe me, it’s quite difficult playing dumb! I couldn’t relate to the role at all. But the biggest compliment I get is when people come up to me and repeat my dialogues from the film. That’s given me a green signal to go ahead with more comedy films,” she adds. Sameera hopes to work with the king of comedy, Govinda, one day. “Talks are on for a film, let’s see,” she says with a smile. Apart from that, Sameera will also be seen in an animation film Mahayudha Ram, where she will lent her voice for Sita. “The value system of the epic will remain the same but Ram and Sita will be someone people can relate to now more easily,” she says. This year will also mark the foray of the actress into television. “I will be the judge on a reality dance show called

Kabhi Kabhii Pyaar, Kabhi Kabhii Yaar.
TV is a very powerful medium and I’m very excited about this show,” she says.
For somebody who’s also explored serious cinema with films like Buddhadeb Dasgupta’s Kaalpurush, The Voyeurs and Mira Nair’s Migration, does Sameera expect to do a balancing act with her masala films? “See it’s these kind of films that have made me get recognition as a good actress,” explains Sameera, “I see Sridevi as great inspiration because she did a number of strong memorable performances while also doing films like Chaalbaaz. She’s the greatest example of how you can get the best of both worlds.”

source:timesofindia.com

Actress SONAL CHAUHAN - Interview

Actress SONAL CHAUHAN - Interview

She has all the reason to smile. She has just made her debut but the name Sonal Chauhan has already become popular. Slender and tall, this beauty from Delhi made a dream debut in Bhatt's movie Jannat. Now she is hoping to get the same accolades in Telugu where she begins her journey with director V N Aditya's Rainbow which is readying up for release. Here she spoke to Telugucinema.com at length..

With Jannat turning out to be big hit, you must be on cloud nine now!

Indeed, I am on heavens literally. Jannat's success has really put me on Jannat (laughs). It is certainly a dream debut as you mentioned. People are recognizing me and appreciated my work. I hope Rainbow brings me the same success in Telugu as well.

Were you not apprehensive that acting in a Bhatt movie requires lot of skin show?

No. There is not much skin in the film. I knew it is clean movie.

Anyhow, what is your take on exposing?

I might sound clichéd but I never wear anything that I am uncomfortable in. The idea of skin show varies from person to person. I don't feel awkward in shorts but some others might find it 'exposing'. Personally, I am not in favour of excessive glamour.


Would you do on screen smooches?

I didn't do them on Jannat. Nor would I lip lock in future. That is, onscreen.

When you got the chance to debut in Bhatt's movies, what made you to come down to Telugu?

Soon after I finished Jannat, V N Aditya sir called me after seeing my portfolio through my agent. He was impressed and insisted on me signing this. After all, it is a superb script and my character is well-etched. I must say after finishing the film now, my faith in the script is reinforced and the movie has come out well. I hope that it turns out to be big hit as well. My fingers are crossed now.

Tell us about your character in Rainbow?

I am playing the role of an actress in the movie who aspires to become big in Tollywood. It is very central to the film.

Sounds like a your real life story..

ha..ha.. Not real but it is similar to any girl who aspires to become big in glam field.

How is it working with V N Aditya and your co-stars?

I must say this film unit is the most comfortable one and Aditya sir is the gentleman. He is the nicest person that I ever come across. He is truly genuine and affable director.




How did you start your career..

I am basically from Uttar Pradesh but completed my schooling in Delhi Public School. Then I shifted to Mumbai and had done modelling. I did romping and commercials for big brands including Lays (with Saif Ali Khan), Pepsi (with John Abrams).

I participated in a lot of pageantry all over the world. As you are aware, I got through the much-happening Miss World (Tourism) show. That brought me a great beginning wherever I went. Crowds, young or old, cheered me with love and affection. To say there will not be a full-stop in my career, the title of Miss India favored me.

Who are your favorite actress and actors?
They are Kajol and Sharukh Khan.

You look so anorexic? Are you in favor of size Zero glam?

Really, do I look like that? I am very healthy and eat good food. I don't believe in Size Zero nor do I suggest anyone.

Are you in love?

No comments.

Hobbies?

I love eating and sleeping.

What kind of dress you like most?

T shirts and Shorts.

source:telugucinema.com

Bollywood Actor Amitabh Bachchan Interview

1. Your blog has been covered, reviewed and written about extensively. Whatever you write in the blog is becoming “news” in print and on TV channels. Do you think, like Aamir Khan says, you do not need to talk to the press separately anymore?

ANS: I am surprised and intrigued by your observation. I have been travelling out of the country for some time and am unaware of print and TV channel reviews. But its interesting to know from you on the interest on my blog. I have not read or heard Aamir’s remark, but as you can observe, by responding to your questionnaire I have not paid heed to it !

2. Blogging for most is a very personal medium but Indian film actors have used it as a public medium to clarify his or her stands. What has your experience been like? Is it close to writing a diary or is it more a public rejoinder to accusations?

ANS: I have yet to find a definition for the blog or a blog or just blog. It is an intriguing word and I doubt if it would matter what it meant to those that use it. There are no rules for it, so I would imagine it is a medium where an individual has the opportunity to express himself and through that to others as well. If the process is being looked upon as a document of personal thoughts or as a vehicle for clarification and rejoinder so be it. I think for celebrities or those in the public sphere who sometimes desire a method for response this could be the answer.

3. Your usage of English and your writing style are truly praiseworthy. Have you ever thought of writing fiction or memoirs in the language?

ANS: My language and its usage is very pedantic and not worthy of praise at all. You embarrass me by this observation and no I have not thought of writing fiction or my memoirs.

4. Has the response to your posts brought to light anything new about your fans? What is your response to their response to your posts?

ANS: Yes it has. It has brought to light that they have a deeper perception of our profession and our character than we imagine. That they are extremely intelligent and conscious of their bearings. That their affection and love is spontaneous and exuberant and the reason for our existence. That their criticism and abuse at times needs careful consideration, for they are able to see and observe what we may not have and that it is the most joyful experience to connect with them first hand.

5. You son Abhishek and daughter-in-law Aishwarya have become global faces and have been the only movie stars from India on the Cannes red carpet. How does that make you feel?

ANS: I am not so sure of that. We are all here on a private visit. Aishwarya is brand ambassador for L’Oreal which is one of the sponsors for the Cannes Film Festival, so her participation in the festival activities is part of her contractual obligations. The rest of the family is here to be with her in her moment. The family has been spread all over different parts of the world for some time due to our schedules and we decided to meet up here. Aishwarya is a popular face in France and it is a very proud moment for all of us to witness the respect and honour that is accorded to her.

6. You have poured your heart out in your blog about things that have bothered you, about certain people’s actions and words. If you didn’t have the blogging medium would you have been able to express your hurt in some way?

ANS: I cannot say. It is quite possible that I may have kept that inside of me and allowed it to dissolve or fester. But now that there is a viable medium I am happy to be able to express myself.

7. Would have life been any different had things like blogging been around 20-30 years back because with you boycotting the media at that time none of your fans could hear your viewpoints on anything?

ANS: That is an interesting and valuable observation. The media boycotting me and vice versa did erase the opportunity of any documentation or record of events that may have happened in my professional career. I cannot say whether that held any importance at all. Media is the only credible source of any record for posterity other than official documentation by recognised sources. I do not think that media felt it necessary to keep on record what went on in my film or personal life, during the time of the ban. And quite frankly they were not wrong. But I would like to believe that fans love and appreciate your work on film and so long as that was in order, other aspects did not matter. So thank god for the films and their presence, for they kept me alive so to say in the minds of the people.

8. Has there been any pressure on you to use your new love for blogging commercially to promote your films?

ANS: No there hasn’t. But I talk about my films and my roles and my daily activities connected with them and at times putting up photographs and other material. If that helps in the promotion of the film then good.

9. What are the plans with your upcoming website? What features are you planning to include in it?

ANS: Plans are under construction for the website and it should be up shortly. It will have the presence of all members of the family, most particularly my father and his prolific work. I believe it would also invite comment from those not in the family as well, if we feel and consider it to be of value. It shall be a gradual process and we would love for any tips or suggestions on it.

10. Finally, Sarkar Raj is round the corner. How was it shooting with the family? Having shot for the film and perhaps seen it, do you think it can live up to the expectations from a Sarkar sequel?

ANS: Yes Sarkar Raj is due on the 6th of June and the experience has been wonderful. All three of us in front of the camera at the same time has been joyful and exciting. I will be seeing the final copy in a few days so I cannot comment on it yet, but yes we always expect the best to happen with all our products and Sarkar Raj is no exception.

Amitabh Bachchan

source:blogs.bigadda.com

I cannot even think about equality with Kajol: Amita Pathak

It’s very settled trend for daughters and sons of last generation stars to follow the same stardom in Bollywood. But with the latest in the list, Amita Pathak, the scenario is a little different.
Albeit she is not the daughter of any known star but her father, Kumar Mangat, is very well known name in the industry. Let’s share the tête-à-tête with this beau where she opened her heart about her upcoming flick Haal-E-Dil and little more…

Q.: Your first film Haal-E-Dil is on the verge of release. How is your state of mind at this moment?
A.: At this very moment I am very excited and on the other hand nervousness is killing me, too.


Q.: Your father says that you have fulfilled his dream. Did you also have the same dream of becoming heroine?
A.: I talked about becoming a heroine for the first time while I was just three but my father didn’t take me seriously because of my tender age.

I am from a conservative Punjabi family where girls are not allowed much independence but my father allowed me total freedom to fulfill my wishes. Truly speaking it’s not his but my dream that I fulfilled today.

I am really glad that my father accepted my dreams as that of his and helped me throughout to make it true for me.

Q.: Your first film is by your father. Does it prove a better option for you?
A.: It’s really proved a better option for me. It’s only because our industry is loaded with talented people and there are very few amongst them who has the chance to show their talents. And there are many who have no filmy background to support them.

So, it really proved a better option for me to get helped out by my father but at the same time it proved wrong to some extent, too. There were many situations where I couldn’t even express my opinion thinking about how others will react.

Q.: How did you prepare yourself for your character?
A.: I learned acting from Kishor Namit Kapoor. Simultaneously, I went through theater workshops learning many things from famous theater personality Om Katare. Shyamak Davar taught me dancing and I spent few days with Habiba Madam, too.

In that way I tried my level best to prepare myself before facing camera. And that’s not all as I worked as production person with John Mathew for Shikhar and with Visha Bhardwaj for Omkara to learn more about films.

Q.: How is it necessary to learn about production to become a heroine?
A.: I think an actor should know about all nitty-gritty of filmmaking. The time an actor starts thinking that he or she has nothing more to know, his growth will surely stop.

Working with John Mathew I came to know about a director’s perspective towards his actors. There are few actors in our industry who has proved their prowess in filmmaking, too. I would love to be one of them.

Q.: Will you be a director in future?
A.: Yeah, if I have that chance. During the period of learning acting I used to direct songs for all other girls. Besides acting, I think, I have qualities to become a director also. Maybe one day you will see me directing some movies.

Q.: Did you ever try for any other film to act in?
A.: I was approached with many offers but I never found anything interesting in those stories. My father narrated me a story and I really liked it. I then requested him to make a film on the story.

Q.: Usually it has been noticed that new faces are introduced with romantic subjects. Have you ever thought of any such subject?
A.: Yeah, actually it maybe because of my habit of watching so many romantic films since childhood. At the same time one has to agree that no other subject can come equal with the freshness that romantic films can offer. It’s only because of the innocence that romantic films demand from a character that enhances the beauty of actors.

Q.: Please tell us about your character in the film.
A.: Name of my character in this film is Sanjana who is a happy go lucky character like me. She loves without expecting anything in return from anyone. And it’s only because of her innocence that two guys fall for her.

Q.: Usually Kajol carries the name of Sanjana in Kumar Mangat films. How do you relate yourself to her?
A.: To be very frank she is my most favourite actress. I have grown up watching her films only. I cannot even think about equality between us.

I know that I will have to work hard to get to her position but I’ll try for that. Actually the name of my character was supposed to get changed but I requested my father to keep the name.

Hero having the name of Shekhar and heroine called as Sanjana had been proved quite lucky with all our films and that is the reason behind my request to keep the name.

Q.: What would you like to say about Nakul and Addhayan?
A.: Nakul and I are pals for quite long time. Before commencing the shooting we have attended workshop together. That is the secret behind our onscreen chemistry. And about Addhayan, he is quite a naughty guy with a great sense of humour. I really enjoyed working with both of them.

Q.: How about competing with newcomers in the industry?
A.: I don’t believe in competition. I am here to make my dreams of becoming an actress true and never for any kind of competition. All the newcomers in this industry are my friends and I don’t want competition among friends. I would like wish all of them all the best for their future.

Q.: Have you signed any film other than Haal-E-Dil?
A.: No. I am waiting for this film to get released first. I’ll sign my second film only after knowing reactions of the audience. But offers from biggies of the industry have started knocking at my door.

Simultaneously, I am having offers from South Indian industry, too. But for the time being I am not ready for any southee.

source:santabanta.com -

Deepika Padukone Wanted To Become A World Famous Model

Deepika Padukone gets candid about current beau Ranbir Kapoor and former boyfriends Nihar Pandya and Yuvraj Singh

• Let me not start by asking about your personal life lest you become uncomfortable. Did you always want to become an actress?
No.
I always wanted to become a world-famous model after which I had
planned to become an interior designer before getting married and
settling down. But when a few of my advertisements became very popular,
I started getting lot of film offers. So I decided to try my hand at
films. Now, of course, I can't even think of doing interior designing.

• Tell us about your forthcoming films.
I
have finished Yash Raj film's Bachna Ae Haseenon, which is directed by
Siddharth Anand. Siddharth's film is a romantic comedy and I play one
of the three girls who comes in the hero's (Ranbir Kapoor) life. I have
started shooting for Nikhil Advani's film, Chandni Chowk to China. It
is an action film which requires me to learn jijitsu (a form of martial
arts).I will soon start shooting for Imtiaz Ali's film with Saif Ali
Khan.

• Is Akshay teaching you jujitsu for Chandni Chowk to China? What do you think of him?
No,
Akshay is not teaching me jijitsu. Professional trainers from China are
teaching us jijitsu. But yes, Akshay is full of energy on the sets. He
tends to improvise a lot, which increases the output in every scene.

• Will you do bold scenes?
I will see if I am comfortable. I'll cross the bridge when it comes. As of now, I wouldn't like to list down the dos and don'ts.

• Recently, Farah Khan complained that you hadn't kept in touch with her after Om Shanti Om?
I
visited her in the hospital when she delivered her triplets. Yes, I may
have not kept in touch as much as other people do or as much as she
expected me to. But honestly, I think of her every day. I even wished
her on her birthday. Whenever we speak, it's just like we have spoken
yesterday. I don't know why a section of the media reported that I
haven't stayed in touch with Farah and blew it out of proportion.

• Have you kept in touch with Shah Rukh Khan?
Yes. I am in touch with him for work reasons. I often meet him socially too.

• Has your life style changed after OSO?
Nothing
about me has changed as a person. I still talk the same way as I did in
my college days. I still dress the same as I did three years ago. The
only thing that has changed is that I have shifted base from Bangalore
to Mumbai. I recently bought my own house at Bandra. I interact with
people like I used to earlier and people's attitude towards me has not
changed either (pauses). Hmmm... maybe a few friends have drifted away
but my true friends whom I trust are still with me. Today, I am very
happy.

• Aha! You have a great reason to be happy. Your man (Ranbir) recently admitted that he is in love with you...
(Blushes) Yes, Ranbir and I are seeing each other. So sorry as the media will not have gossip to write about me anymore

• But you two were in a relationship and then broke up, and now you are together again?
No.
It wasn't like that. Whenever Ranbir and I met, the media started
speculating. Love is the most beautiful emotion in the world. Why would
we hide it if we were in love then? You see, we used to meet often but
that was because we were getting to know each other better. After a
certain time, we drifted apart because we both got busy with our
respective shooting schedules. Today, we realise that we are compatible
with each other. So, we have no qualms in telling the world that we are
in love.

• So, when did it happen? I mean, when did you both realise that you love each other?
(Smiles) We realised it when we were shooting for Siddharth's film in Australia.

• There's so much written about your personal life, may be more than your professional life?
Initially,
it used to disturb my parents a lot. But now, they have realised that
it's a part of my profession. Today, everything is sorted out. Ranbir
and my parents know what exactly is happening and they are very happy.

• What went wrong between you and Yuvraj Singh?
I
don't want to talk about that. If two people are spending time together
and having dinner in a restaurant, why does it make front page news?
Aren't there more important issues in the world? But like I said, my
family and I are getting used to all this.

• Are you saying that there was nothing between you and Yuvraj?
I am not commenting on my past. I am very happy right now in my relationship with Ranbir.

• Are you in touch with your ex-boyfriend Nihar Pandya?
Yes. His parents have taken care of me and treated me like family. I am in touch with Nihar and his parents.

• Kareena Kapoor is upset with Imtiaz Ali
for signing you and not her with Saif Ali Khan? She openly said it on a
stage in an award ceremony, few days ago?
(Smiles)
Absolutely. If an actor has a hit film with a certain director, he/she
is naturally keen to work with the same director again. But I am sure
that Imtiaz will have enough work for her, me and other actresses as
well.

• Are you and Kareena okay with each other? After all, she is Ranbir's cousin...
Oh, yeah. We are fine with each other and we have met many times.

• So, what next?
Well, I am shooting for a long time abroad and won't be free until July.

• No Ranbir till then?!
(Laughs)
Well, we still have a song that we have to shoot for Siddharth's film;
it will be shot in Venice. And then, there's the phone. The phone bills
have increased, but that's natural. We want to spend every free moment
with each other.

I Have A Good Role In KAYAMATH

You have a good role in Kayamath, but it’s not a prime time show. Is that a setback?

• I don’t think so. It is in fact still among the topmost-watched shows on the small screen. It’s doing really well.
Currently, you’re just doing one show. Is it by choice or lack of other meaningful roles?

* Totally by choice. I prefer to concentrate on one show and do a good job, rather than shuffle between fourfive shoots. Besides, Kayamath takes up a lot of my time anyway!
But don’t you fear being left back in the rat race, with your colleagues doing a number of serials simultaneously?

• I need some time to myself, to think, to rejuvenate. Otherwise one gets exhausted as an actor. I prefer doing just one show well and having a life too!
You’ve been quite low profile off late...

• That’s because I’ve been so busy with work — my TV serial as well as a Bollywood film. Besides, I had nothing to talk about!
Were you happy with your Bollywood debut (Shootout at Lokhandwala) or do you think you were given a raw deal?

• I was very happy with the end product. See, the movie wasn’t only about a single hero, it was about different characters. I was one of those essential characters, and was content with my role.
Was Shootout at Lokhandwala a one-off experiment with Bollywood, or are films next on your career chart?

• I’m already working in Apoorva Lakhia’s next, Mission Istanbul. It’s an exciting storyline. I’d like to shuffle between both television and films, as long as I’m doing good work in both mediums. I’m becoming extremely choosy about my roles now.
You have been linked with Sakshi Tanwar on more than one occasion. So, what’s the real story?

• The real story is nothing! The best way to handle a rumour or a controversy is not to deal with it at all. That’s what I do.

source:toi

Shahrukh Khan On Being Sexy, Smoking And BCCI

In the news, always: I’ve no complaints about that, for the simple fact that this is the world we’ve created. It’s bound to happen with the increasing demand ofshahrukh_khan_eyecandy_20051205.jpg movies and the economic boom in the film industry. More the movies, more the money and more the publicity both positive and negative. And honestly, if I want to be private about my life, then it’s for me to take a decision.

BCCI’s accusation: First of all, not everyone in BCCI thought I was promoting my film at the matches. It was just this one gentleman who thought so. But, some of the other officials felt otherwise. And honestly, they’ve always been very kind to me. But, at the same time, it’s a bit disappointing. The other day, I’d gone to see my son’s Taekwon-do, and I don’t think it was for any promotion. I might also practice soccer with my son and his school mates once a week. I used to be a sportsperson in college and I’ve just gone back to my old love. All this is not for any promotion. Well, let me clarify that my films don’t need promotion.

The sexiest man: I think I’m sexy, in a different kind of way. But I’m more sensual than sexy. Sexiness is just a state of the mind. I’m not saying that I’ve not seen people with good bodies who’re sexy, even I have one! Sensuality is an inherent part of all human beings. So, while some say my humour is sexy, others think the way I carry myself is sexy it varies you see!

Salman was called SRK: I think I’ve been mistaken as Salman more than often. Once, at an airport, a girl chased me from one terminal to another, till I finally told her to hand me the paper she was carrying, so that I could autograph it. To which she said, ‘Thanks Akshay!’, so I signed ‘Akshay’. So, I’ve been referred to by a number of names. If someone is called by my name, they too shouldn’t get offended.

Mr Amitabh Bachchan & SRK: I know what my relationship with Mr Bachchan is. Our relationship is wonderful and we don’t have to judge it by reading the tabloids. We work together, we meet, and I’m really fond of Abhishek. Both of them were a part of my film, and I’ve been a part of theirs. People think we’re diplomatic. Even if we have our differences, we’re too well-educated to make them public. But, at the same time, we haven’t really had any differences. In fact, he’s fond of me.

No smoking in public: Smoking is a bad thing, and no one should follow me in this. Also, I wear my hair and clothes in a certain way so! You don’t have to put me on a pedestal. I’m an entertainer and should be taken that way. I pay my taxes and that’s legal. I smoke, which again is legal. I don’t do anything that’s illegal. In fact, I would request photographers not to click me when I’m smoking.

source:ourbollywood.com