Salman's Veer in demand for Rs. 150 crore?

Salman Khan starrer Veer might break down all records if the price its being offered is agreed upon. It has been offered a mind boggling Rs. 150 crore for its complete world wide rights.

Industry trade sources inform, "If Vipul Shah's London Dreams got a whopping Rs. 120 crore even before shooting a single shot and became the biggest deal in Bollywood, Veer is all set to break its record very soon.

Anil Sharma's Veer starring Salman and Sohail Khan along with a debutante model turned actress and Mithun Chakraborty has been offered Rs. 150 crore by one of Bollywood's top most corporate production house.

What has made Veer a period drama such a hot proposition? Well it has a script written by Salman Khan himself and the ferocious way by which he is promoting this film everywhere, the hype for the film is multiplying every passing day.

Salman is also keen on taking his war with Shah Rukh Khan more further by taking active interest in every single department of his most ambitious venture till date, Veer.

He wants to prove that if SRK can take Om Shanti Om to glory single handedly, he can pitch in more efforts and ensure double the result of OSO.

The staggering price offered is a sort of moral victory for Salman as he is now considered the hottest stars of Bollywood in terms of market price overtaking SRK by leaps and bounds!"

More thanda thanda, cool cool for Shah Rukh

Bollywood's Shahenshah Amitabh Bachchan and Badshah Shah Rukh Khan may not see eye to eye but Kolkata-based FMCG major Emami has successfully kept the two superstars together as its brand ambassadors.

Emami has renewed contracts of Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan to endorse its products for another two-and-a-half years.

Big B and SRK have been endorsing Emami's Navratna oil together. While Bachchan endorses Boroplus antiseptic cream together with Bollywood actor Kareena Kapoor, SRK promotes fairness cream and other healthcare products of the group.
Bachchan also endorses Emami's fast relief balm.

Commenting on the renewal of contracts with the two superstars, a company official told PTI that it was about continuing loyalty.

"At a time when 'old is not gold' Emami is continuing loyalty with the superstars of Bollywood. SRK enhances brand value. He is still an icon in India," the official said.

While SRK will continue to feature in their fairness cream and other healthcare products' ads, Amitabh Bachchan will endorse Boro Plus anti septic cream and fast relief balm. Both the stars will endorse Emami's Navratna brand together as before, the official said.

The two bollywood stars were roped in by the company in 2005 with an estimated fee of around Rs 5-10 crore.
Company officials declined to comment on the amount for the renewal of contracts but industry insiders said it could be almost in the same range as before.

Emami which has a turnover of around Rs 600 crore spends around 20 per cent (almost Rs 120 crore) of it on advertising and marketing.

According to a report by Adex India, brought out by TAM, there has been 49 per cent growth in celebrity advertising volume in 2007.

Since 2003, celebrity endorsement volume on television has increased by more than six times.

Shahrukh reveals the truth about Salman

Shahrukh Khan has finally broken his silence on his fight with Salman Khan during Katrina Kaif's birthday party. The reason many speculated was Shahrukh taunted Salman with Aishwarya's name which left Sallu angry and upset. But if Shahrukh is to be believed the reason for the fight is professional as Shahrukh had rejected an offer to star in Salman's movie.

Salman has asked Shahrukh to star in his home production Main Aur Mrs Khanna. Shahrukh declined the offer as the dates clashed with Vivek Vaswani's Dulha Mil Gaya which has been pending for a long time. Salman who had appeared in SRK's Om Shanti Om felt cheated when Shahrukh turned him down and the two stars fought. Salman is known for doing guest appearances for other stars where as Shahrukh does it only for his camp.

King Khan’s silence on the spat with Salman explained

The infamous Salman, SRK spat has been a one sided affair till now as it was only the macho basher Sallu who has been candidly talking about his undying hatred for King Khan, making us all wonder as to where is Shah Rukh Khan…the speaker? Well that’s the question that we all have been asking as to why has King Khan chosen to stay mum on the boiling issue.

Well, unlike the popular belief that SRK is choosing to stay silent as he was at fault, let us enlighten you on the real reason. King Khan is known to be media friendly and has always come out in the open, clearing the air about his reported cold fights with fellow actors. However, as no clarification came from his side this time round it was taken that SRK was at fault.

According to Spicezee sources, the actor is fighting a serious back injury that he suffered while shooting for his upcoming flick ‘Billoo Barber’ and hence is avoiding moving out in public.

Hmm that makes sense, doesn’t it?

This is not the first time that the actor is having a back problem. Reports suggest that the actor in the year 2003 underwent a major surgery to overcome the trouble. Though the surgery went fine it’s known that the actor has been strictly advised not to do any daring action stunts or dance moves.

The silence explained at last.

SRK, Aamir, Abhishek Make It to Forbes List

After business titans like Ambanis and Mittals, it is the turn of the three young icons of Indian entertainment world - Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan and Abhishek Bachchan—to make it to a Forbes list.

The US publication, known for its rankings of wealthiest persons across the world, has named these Bollywood stars among ten celebrities adding star-power to mobile phones.

The two Khans and the junior Bachchan have been joined by two international sport stars Maria Sharapova and David Beckham, four singers Usher, Fergie, Rain and Andy Lau and race car driver Danica Patrick in the ‘Ten Celebs and Their Cells’ list published on the Forbes website.
“Once upon a time, perfume and designer jean makers were the ones who relied on celebrities to add a bit of star-dust glamour to their products. Add to that list, now, mobile phone makers,” the report said.

While Shah Rukh endorses mobile phones made by Nokia, the world’s biggest cellphone maker, Abhishek and Aamir are brand ambassadors for Motorola and Samsung phones respectively.

Among other celebrities, Russian tennis player Maria Sharapova endorses Sony Ericsson phones, while soccer star David Beckham is a brand ambassador for Motorola RAZR2 phone.

Forbes said the ten celebrities are “some of the big ones who want you to join their hand held club.”

“As nearly everyone on the planet seems to have a cellphone, device makers must work harder to win new customers. Cool designs and low prices help, of course. But so do celebrities. That’s led phone makers to recruit some A-listers from Usher to David Beckham to lend an ear—and a smile—to selling cellphones,” it added.

Akshay pitted against Shahrukh

Those who thought that Singh Is Kinng taking over an all time opening record set by Om Shanti Om was the war in the happening need to sit tight for some more time. And that's because this is just a beginning. Just a tip of the iceberg which could well be termed as a battle, the months to come would be a witness to a full blow war. And that's because between Akshay and Shahrukh Khan, there are as many as four films lined up for release in next 6 months.

First to come is Billoo Barber where Irrfan Khan is the central protagonist. In a role where his screen duration is believed to be lower than that of Irrfan Khan, Shahrukh Khan could well call Billoo Barber as a film where he is seen in a special appearance. However, Akshay wouldn't be letting off any steam in months to come since his Chandni Chowk To China is all set to arrive on full throttle before 2008 comes to an end.


Shahrukh too would see some exciting months ahead since his much-in-news film Rab Ne Bana De Jodi would bring him back with Aditya Chopra, who is handling directorial reins once more after Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayyenge and Mohabbatein. Of course, the project becomes a major biggie just with these two names involved which would ensure that Khan and Kumar would have a 'kaante ki takkar' with the release of their respective films.

However, Akshay is expected to continue his winning streak with Kambakth Ishq, a project which brings Bollywood closer to Hollywood. A lavish affair by Sajid Nadiadwala, the film's shooting is currently on in full swing with the release timeline being the first quarter of 2009. Again, that won't be an end to the war since Khan's Dulha Mil Gaya is all set to release in the same period as well.

No wonder, it is going to be one intensely fought war over the next 6 months.

'Still Reading Khan' becomes 'Shah Rukh Can'!

He is probably one of the most written about actor of the Hindi film industry. Yes, we are talking about Shah Rukh Khan, whose biography, 'Still Reading Khan', by good friend Mushtaq Shiekh, hit the stores in 2006 and generated phenomenal sales. In fact, the online orders were one of the highest ever for any category.

Well, for the fans of Bollywood's global superstar, who are craving for more, we have some good news. An updated version of 'Still Reading Khan', titled 'Shah Rukh Can', once again by Mushtaq Shiekh, is all set to hit the stands next month. As per Shiekh himself, there are going to be exclusive never before details about King Khan's personality, fears and dislikes.

So what are you waiting for? Go ahead and book a copy in advance!

Shah Rukh Khan came, saw and conquered Pollachi

Shah Rukh Khan who is shooting for Billoo Barber in Pollachi, a village in Tamil Nadu is drawing crowds of fans and creating a frenzy.



The home production of Shah Rukh Khan directed by Priyadarshan began shooting in this picture postcard village, which is a favorite with Kollywood. Billoo Barber is a remake of Malayalam hit Katha parayumbol, which was recently remade in Tamil as Kuselan and starred another superstar, Rajnikanth.

Shah Rukh Khan’s presence has created an unprecedented frenzy in the spot. People in fancy cars and mini- buses from Kochi, Trichur, Bangalore and Coimbatore have been coming to catch a glimpse of King Khan.

“SRK has been overwhelmed by the kind of reception he has been getting from fans in Pollachi. In Billoo Barber, Irfan Khan is the hero while Shah Rukh makes an appearance only towards the climax and his scenes with Irfan are going to be the highlight of the film,” says a visibly excited Priyadarshan.

At the same time Shah Rukh Khan is also the target of terrorist groups, having received death threats and security has been beefed up around him. Nearly 100 policemen and a dozen of his personal security men are providing him security. The entire top floor of Sakthi hotel, where he is staying, has been converted into his personal suite, with special state-of-the-art security gadgets being used. Twenty bulletproof vehicles have been flown in from Mumbai for the star and his personal entourage.

Shah Rukh Khan also stars in the movie as a super star. To exude the right amount of grandeur, Priyadarshan has flown in a Maybach in which SRK will travel in the movie. A Maybach costs around 5 crores. The car itself is drawing curious crowds.

Love them but can’t invite them; Kareena’s Sallu-SRK dilemma

It’s party time for Bollywood’s most celebrated couple Saif Ali Khan and the size zero apple of his eye Kareena Kapoor who have recently returned after months of jet-setting around the globe. The birdie has it that Bebo’s astounding popularity during her international tours and film assignments galore has completed the picture for them to be in a mood to arrange a grand bash for their loved ones.

But is there any special reason?

Well, it’s Bebo beau’s birthday on the 16 of this month that has got her all charged up. And in her true Bebo style, the lady is making big plans to make Saif feel extra special on his special day.

But looks like planning a birthday party is going to be a tough task for this sizzling beauty as a lot has changed while she was away. For the start she is worried how to handle her ‘good friends’ Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan.

According to sources Kareena had been for long making plans to throw Saif a big birthday bash. But after the infamous Shah Rukh Khan and Salman spat, the lady wisely dropped that idea. Being a good friend of the two Khans, she did not want to choose between the two. And having the two together is now next to impossible.

Good thinking we would say!

For now the lady is going for the next best option on her list-an intimate get together with close friends.

As for giving Chhote Nawab a gift, the actress is yet to buy one. Going by his lavish taste we wonder what she is planning.

But Bebo who has pretty high opinion about herself feels that her time should be the biggest gift for the actor. Speaking to a news daily, Kareena said "I have not figured out a material gift for him yet. I have given him so much of my time - I think that's my biggest gift to him."

Well, we just hope that Bebo’s ex and ‘good co-star’ Shahid is not invited or else be prepared for yet another drama on Sallu-SRK lines.

Akshay Kumar Challenges Shah Rukh Khan

At the press meet for Singh Is Kinng on Wednesday, Akshay Kumar when asked about the title 'king' made a crack at Shah Rukh Khan, who is better known as King Khan.

The Khiladi said, "I don't know why people call themselves King, because there has only been one King in the industry in the last 30 years, and that is Amitabh Bachchan. There is no other." This is one of the many potshots that Akki has taken at SRK in recent times.

It appears that Akshay, who has always been politically correct, is deliberately taking panga with SRK. Not just in his interviews but in SIK, which releases today, there are nasty comments aimed at Shah Rukh.

Says an insider, "There is a sequence in the movie where Kiron Kher asks Singh, 'Is King the one who has 10 countries' cops behind him?' (the famous dialogue from SRK's Don). To which Akki's character replies, "These dons are nobodies, the King is the one who is made out of 10-12 fake dons put together.'

There are other digs too aimed at Khan. In another scene, a guy is wearing a cardboard mask of SRK's face and gets thrashed by a crowd!

It's interesting to note how in the last few months Akshay has been bonding more with SRK's rival camps Amitabh Bachchan and Salman Khan. Kumar has become close to Big B in the last few months, and was part of their The Unforgettable tour in Canada. On Wednesday night, Akshay Kumar also shot for Salman Khan's show, 10 Ka Dum.

An industrywalla adds, "Salman and Akki share share cold vibes to say the least. They have tried to outdo each other when it comes to picking up movies and quoting their market price and not to mention their issues over Katrina. Which is why their coming together especially after the SRK-Sallu fight has added significance."

It is believed that Vipul Shah is responsible in getting the two actors together. The producer-director who is close to Akki, is also directing Salman in London Dreams. He was the one who convinced Kat and Akki to be on Salman's show.

The Akki-SRK war will get more interesting in the coming months when Akshay's Chandni Chowk To China releases in the same month as Shah Rukh's home production Billoo Barber.

SHAH RUKH, DEEPIKA AND FARAH KHAN TOGETHER ONCE MORE!

The "Om Shanti Om" team is getting together again, though not for a sequel, which wouldn't have been a bad idea.

OSO director Farah Khan will be choreographing Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone in an item song for Priyadarshan's "Billo Barber".

Farah has earlier worked with Priyadarshan in film Virasat where she choregoraphed the hit song "Dhol Bhajane Laga".

Deepika too was supposed to start her career with him in a film on music piracy.

The song, penned by Gulzar, will be shot next month.

SRK-Karan's MY NAME IS KHAN in Nov'09

The corporatisation of Bollywood is a recent phenomenon but there have been two production houses that had already imbibed the culture long back. We are obviously referring to Yash Raj Films and Dharma Productions, who have more or less stuck to their shooting, pre & post-production and release schedules.



While the next three releases from Yash Raj Films, BACHNA AE HASEENO, ROADSIDE ROMEO and RAB NE BANA DI JODI already have their release dates announced, not much is known about the release schedule of Dharma Productions' most awaited project, Karan Johar's next directorial venture, MY NAME IS KHAN. However Johar's upcoming Mansukhani directed Abhishek, John and Priyanka starrer DOSTANA already has an announced release date of November 14.



So what is the schedule for the biggest project from Dharma Productions, featuring the winning pair of Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol? Well, the good news for the eager fans of SRK-Kajol is that the pre-production is over and MY NAME IS KHAN is all set to take off next month end or early October in US. Dharma Productions have also gone ahead and given November 2009 as the tentative release date.

DULHA MIL GAYA is a good film in the making - Viveck Vaswani

''I am surprised why there are questions around DULHA MIL GAYA being two years in the making. With due respect to JAANE TU YA JAANE NAA, even it took as much as 3.5 years to reach the finishing line'', says Viveck Vaswani in an amused tone whose Shah Rukh Khan starrer DULHA MIL GAYA in now back on track with a marathon 20 day shooting schedule coming to close.

''Success of JAANE TU YA JAANE NAA shows what stuff good films are made of. Also, it tells that if at all there is some delay in a film's shooting being completed, it could well be for the product's betterment itself. We are also not hurrying up on DULHA MIL GAYA'', Viveck sets the record straight here.

''I didn't compromise even when I made RAJU BAN GAYA GENTLEMAN with Shah Rukh Khan. That was such a long time ago and at during those days so many people didn't want me to make a film with a rank newcomer like Shah Rukh. Still, I believed my instincts. Same is the case with DULHA MIL GAYA. I know it is a very good film in the making and director Muddassar Aziz is doing such a brilliant job. Why should there be any compromise just in order to release the film faster'', questions Viveck.

But isn't the delay more due to Shah Rukh Khan's lack of interest in the project?

''Has Shah Rukh Khan ever said anything to this tune? So why anyone should be speculating on this. He was sent a bound script just like it was sent to Sushmita Sen or Fardeen Khan. Everyone knew what their role and believed in the project. There are loose talks around lack of dates from Shah Rukh but in actuality that was never the case'', clarifies Viveck on record.

Talking about the role of a section of media in rumors around DULHA MIL GAYA, he goes on to add, ''Fortunately or unfortunately, I haven't hired any PR office to plug stories on my behalf. Neither do I have anyone enrolled to deny any hogwash that has been written about DULHA MIL GAYA. I have allowed press to do their job while I have carried on with mine.''

Talking about the happier moments he is going through, Viveck informs, ''Contrary to the belief of many that the film has been stalled, let me clarify that it is pretty much going on at a good pace. We are in the closing stages of a 20 day marathon shoot at Panchgani, Vashi and Pune. With this, we would have shot 90% of the film. Only a few scenes and a song with Shah Rukh Khan remain which would be canned within next 3 months, hence bringing the principal shoot to closure. Meanwhile editing on the film is already on and there is very good probability of us arriving in January 2009.''

Directed by debutant Muddassar Aziz, DULHA MIL GAYA has been prominently shot in Trinidad and Tobago with music by Lalit Pandit. Also starring Mohit Chadha, Tara Sharma, Johny Lever, Beena Kak, Suchitra Pillai and Viveck Vaswani himself, DULHA MIL GAYA was officially launched in January 2007.

'I am the best' - Shah Rukh Khan

Shah Rukh Khan wasn't joking when he sang 'I am the best'. Take the recent case which happened on the sets of his home production, Billoo Barber.
A source present on the sets said, "The film's director Priyadarshan was chatting with SRK when he casually mentioned about the dedication and discipline of some lead actors like Akshay Kumar, Govinda and Salman Khan.
Priyan also cited some examples about their professionalism and how they always report early to the sets. That's when SRK took up the challenge to follow suit."
When contacted, Priyadarshan, who is currently shooting in Pollachi, laughed and said, "I was casually telling SRK that Akshay, Govinda and Salman always come earlier than the scheduled reporting time to the sets.
At times they are on the sets even before me. That's when SRK took up the challenge of reaching the sets earlier than me."
And guess what! The very next morning, SRK who used to generally report to the sets by 9 am, was there at 7 am. Priyadarshan added, "I was on my way to the location when I saw Shah Rukh's car speed past mine. He reported to the sets even before 7 am."
Billoo Barber also stars Lara Dutta, Om Puri and Irrfan Khan.

Manoj Kumar files case against SRK and Farah Khan

Actor Manoj Kumar on Tuesday filed a case against actor Shah Rukh Khan, Producer and Director Farah Khan and Sony Entertainment Television seeking to delete a scene from the movie Om Shanti Om .

Shah Rukh Khan and Farah Khan had earlier assured Kumar that the scene, which makes fun of him, would be deleted from the movie.

However, this did not happen and the movie was screened in all theatres without the deletion of the scene.

Kumar has now approached the Sessions Court seeking a stay on the telecast of the movie, which is to be aired on August 10 on Sony Entertainment Television.

The matter will come up for hearing on Wednesday.

Ramadoss fails, SRK's kids get him to kick the butt

Health minister Anbumani Ramdadoss might have failed to inspire Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan to quit smoking, but his children have certainly done that.
Talking to the Malayalam daily from his latest location in Pollachi in Tamil Nadu, where he is shooting for a new film directed by Priyadarshan, the Bollywood superstar has said, that he is all set to completely quit smoking in the next two-months for the sake of his children.
“I am going to quit smoking for the sake of my children,” a Malayalam daily quoted him as saying.
He added, “They hate me smoking. I find that as a blessing in disguise. If they had no problems, I would have continued smoking.”
Health Minister Anbumani Ramadoss had earlier appealed to Shah Rukh Khan and other actors to quit smoking onscreen.

However, King Khan chose creative liberty to 'no smoking'.
“I agree with what Mr Ramadoss said. Having said that as filmmakers we should have creative liberties because cinema is all about make believe,” Shah Rukh Khan said.
Ramadoss had also said, that Shah Rukh should not have smoked in the stands while watching a cricket match in Mumbai.
“I think minister Anbumani Ramadoss will also be happy to hear that I am going to quit smoking. Nothing gives me more pleasure than to see one more person happy because of my actions,” Shah Rukh said.

SRK is Highest Tax Payer again

Shah Rukh Khan will be the highest income-tax payer from Bollywood for the second year in a row.

He has paid advance taxes of Rs 27 crore till December 15, 2007, said sources, putting his income for 2007-08 at over Rs 100 crore. It is a glittering jump from the money he made the previous fiscal when he paid a modest Rs 18 crore in tax.

2007 has been a particularly prosperous year for Shah Rukh Khan, who has often called himself “priceless’’. He has not only had two mega hits under his belt - Chak De, India and Om Shanti Om , which he also produced - but also earned Rs 1 crore for every episode of Kaun Banega Crorepati .

In the income-tax stakes, SRK is far ahead of the competition. Hrithik Roshan, who paid Rs 15 crore last year, had no releases in 2007 though his endorsement list has grown longer. Aamir Khan, who paid Rs 6 crore last year, released only one film, Taare Zameen Par , and is known to have taken the distribution rights as part of his remuneration. He has paid advance taxes worth Rs 3 crore.

While Amitabh Bachchan paid Rs 8 crore in income tax last year, his advance tax payment until December 15, 2007 was only Rs 1.8 crore. Bachchan, who is said to have upped his fee in 2008, is no more among the highest paid actors but his endorsement roster is still a blue-chip one.

Among those who have paid a high advance tax this fiscal are Akshay Kumar (Rs 7 crore, although there have been media reports in the recent about the actor paying tax of Rs 26 crore) and Himesh Reshammiya (Rs 2.5 crore). The singer charges Rs 5.5 crore as a composer and actor. Abhishek Bachchan has paid Rs 3.7 crore (much higher than his returns the previous year) while his wife Aishwarya Rai has paid Rs 1.6 crore. Close behind Rai is actor Kareena Kapoor with Rs 1 crore in advance tax.

On the corporate entertainment front, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Pvt Ltd paid advance taxes worth Rs 70 crore. They have done the maximum buying of films in 2007 including hits like Om Shanti Om and Taare Zameen Par . Hindustan Thompson was next (Rs 6 crore) followed by Balaji Telefilms (Rs 4.5 crore), Shah Rukh Khan’s Red Chillies (Rs 3 crore) and Amitabh Bachchan’s company AB Corporation (Rs 2.4 crore).

Eros Entertainment, which bought the worldwide distribution rights of Om Shanti Om for a whopping Rs 70 crore from Shah Rukh Khan, had deducted Rs 7 crore in tax deducted at source in this transaction alone.

10-day Indian Cinema festival to be held in London

A 10-day Indian Cinema Festival, with special focus on Bollywood and Malayalam movies, will be held here from August 14.

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan's box office hit 'Chak de India' and director Sagar Bellary's comedy film 'Beja Fry' are among the movies to be screened at Mantra in Tower Hill organised by India's global construction company, SRK Group.

Other films featuring in the festival include 'Bhairavi' - a musical legacy left behind by renowned sitar player Ustad Karimuddin Khan, 'Summer 2007' - a film about the sensitive issue of farmers suicide in Vidarbha in Maharashtra, and 'Delhi Heights' - a film about three couples, a mystery man and a bunch of youngsters.

In addition, 'Mithya' directed by Rajat Kapoor with Naseruddin Shah and Neha Dhupia in leading roles and Jonny Gadhhar, starring Dharmendra, Neil Mukesh, Rimi Sen and Vinay Pathak are the other movies.

The Malayalam films are 'Sheelabathi' - a movie about a computer teacher who disappears mysteriously and ends up being sexually exploited, 'Mayavi' - a young man who fights against injustice and 'Kadhaparayumpol' - a film based on a barber's life.

The festival would conclude with 'Dance Tunes' and musical shows involving Tamil, Hindi and Malayalam Cinema songs. Artistes of Anandha Mantra, the art and cultural of Anandha Darsan, a London-based media production will perform at the 'Dance Tunes'.

The entry for the film festival is 12 pounds per show which would also include an Indian buffet dinner specially prepared by chefs of Mantra, a north and south Indian cuisines.

The organisers are also offering the 10-day package for 90 pounds and 50 pounds for five shows including dinner.

My B’day wish?Peace in the country

This dusky actress has mastered the art of stealing the hearts of movie buffs with her disarmingly natural portrayals.

But, that is something you would expect from Kajol, the granddaughter of Shobhna Samarth, daughter of Tanuja and niece of Nutan - the actresses who set milestones in Bollywood with their superlative performances. Kajol, who is turning 33 tomorrow, speaks to NT about films, television shows and peace in the country.

‘My biggest wish’ :


Tell her to reveal her birthday plans and you are treated to her trademark tinkling laughter, which comes straight from the heart. She says, "My life at the moment is going through such a hectic pace that I would rather chill out at home. No news would be good news at this juncture, and making no plans would really make me happy. I just hope to have a very uneventful birthday." But surely, husband Ajay Devgan and her six-year-old daughter Nysa have made some secret plans? To this Kajol says, "I am sure! But Nysa hasn't revealed these plans to me yet. Batayegi, batayegi!" And what is her biggest birthday wish? "I wish for peace in my heart and peace in our country. These ongoing blasts across the nation have disturbed me a lot," she says getting emotional.

On awards :



Kajol is one of the few actresses in Bollywood who have bagged four Filmfare Awards. And at the rate she's going, the lady is all set to break her maasi Nutan's record who had bagged five Filmfare Awards. Ask her if national award is next on her agenda and she promptly replies, "When you do a particular film, you don't have awards in mind. But, yes, it definitely feels good when you are called as the best amongst your peers and awarded for the same. I wouldn't say that I don't aspire for a national award, but I don't sign films just to get awards."

A class apart :



The star who has broken the myth about actresses not doing well post-marriage, took a sabbatical for five years and wowed her fans yet again with films like Fanaa and U, Me aur Hum. How did she manage this feat? "I think people have forgotten about actresses like Meena Kumari, Saira Banu etc., who did even better after marriage than before. I am not the sole exception," says she. The talented star will soon be appearing in her home production Toonpur Ka Superhero. Ask her what exactly is the film all about and she says, "As the name suggests, it's a cartoon film and we will have a lot of live characters in it. I can't reveal more than that, you will have to watch this film to know more."

Now that there are talks of the sequel of Andaz Apna Apna being made, would she want to do a role in the film? Kajol says rather candidly, "I don't have an objection to any role as long as it clicks in my head." And does the lady, who has been tagged as the chatterbox of the industry, have any plans to host a chat show on television? "Nobody has come to me with such a proposal, but if something good comes along, why not! I really don't know whether I will be good at it, because despite being a chatterbox, I am not a very public person," she confesses.

Dream pairing :




There is a lot of buzz about Karan Johar's film - My Name is Khan - in which she will be appearing with Shah Rukh Khan again. Now that's one pairing, which has always been a superhit with the cinegoers. But, isn't she scared of the expectations that people would have from this project? "No, I am not scared! Darna tha toh tab darti jab Bollywood main enter kiya tha - with legacy of my mom, maasi and granny behind me. I take my work seriously, but it doesn't affect my nerves," says Kajol in a cool-as-a-cucumber manner before signing off.

Shah Rukh takes KKR higher

Pakistan all-rounder Yasir Arafat has signed up with Shah Rukh Khan-owned Kolkata Knight Riders for the second edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) to held in April next year.

Arafat, who plays for Kent in the English county, confirmed that he was approached by the Kolkata team and had accepted the offer after getting clearance from the Pakistan Cricket Board.

"They (Knight Riders) approached me and I was keen to join because it was owned by Shah Rukh Khan. The team has got many exciting players in it," said Arafat, who is having a successful season with Kent in Twenty20 form of the game.

Arafat hails from Rawalpindi, the same city from where pacers Shoaib Akhtar and Sohail Tanvir belong.

Shah Rukh Khan Is Hugely Popular In Sri Lanka

Bollywood actress Neha Dhupia had said a few years back that there are only two things that sell in the world - Shah Rukh Khan and sex. And in Sri Lanka, King Khan is truly bigger than even the Southern sweetheart Rajnikanth. Even as the city is swarming with policemen due to the Saarc summit and despite the fear of the LTTE, one thing remains constant and that is the love people shower on the undisputed badshah of Bollywood.
"I have been watching his films since I was a child. And today, I must say that I know Hindi thanks to him," says Suma, a mahout in Pinnawala, an elephant orphanage in Sri Lanka. But that's not all. Suma catches the first day first show of his favourite actor and even gives you a free demonstration of his dialogues from the blockbuster Darr. Remember "K-K-Kirrrran"?





With issues like the Ram Sethu controversy raging and the gossip among people being that LTTE chief Prabhakaran being spotted in a bunker (allegedly the Army knows his location, but is waiting for the right moment to strike), Bollywood remains on top of their mind.

Says Kumaran, a driver at a local tourist service, "We love Shah Rukh as he transports us into a different world altogether with his movies. He also has a very unique personality that can cut across all language and geographical boundaries. I remember his movie Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge, he was simply superb in it. We hope he comes again to Sri Lanka, and I know the people here will give him a royal welcome."

Interestingly, many Sinhalese can speak Hindi and if you switch on the TV you will see many of Shah Rukh's songs (from his famous films like Kal Ho Naa Ho) dubbed in the local language. And a Walkers' tour guide Shane confirms that many women in the country swear by Mr Khan.

Numbers on side of Shah Rukh Khan for next Yash Raj flick

Shah Rukh Khan’s last hit with Yash Raj may have been last year’s Chak De, but the production house has been experiencing a dry spell ever since with all its latest releases.But numerologists predict that things will turn around for Yash Raj with Shah Rukh Khan starrer Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, later this year.



Yash Raj is recovering from the debacles of Tashan, Tara rum Pum, Thoda Pyar thoda Magic, Laaga Chunari..,etc so the numerologist predictions about Aditya Chopra’s next come like manna from heaven.
Numerologist Niraj Manchchanda says,” Rab Ne… will be the biggest hit of 2008. It comes to number 42 just like Dil To Pagal Hai did and that number vibrates with both Yash Chopra who is a number 9 and Aditya Chopra who is a number 3. The movie will do unheard of business and might even break records.”


Sweet words for King Khan and team Yash Raj who are longing for a hit!

MANNAT ....KING KHAN'S HOUSE

Have a look at king khan's house ...Mannat which is looking like Jannat

Not intimidated

ACTOR Aamir Khan (pic) has declared that he would not be cowed by threats and would continue to work in films.
His reaction came following reports of threats issued to Muslim actors by Indian Mujahideen, a militant outfit which claimed responsibility for July 26’s series of blasts in Ahmedabad in the western Indian state of Gujarat. The militant group has also claimed responsibility for the May bombings in Jaipur, the capital of north-western Rajasthan, that killed 63 people.
“It’s really sad that a few people are adamant in taking the lives of the innocent. I think we should not be cowed by these threats and attacks or let them affect us at all,” Aamir, 43, told reporters in Mumbai on Monday.
The militants reportedly told Bollywood’s Muslim stars to stop acting or their lives would be in danger. But an undaunted Aamir is determined to carry on.
Aamir and his Muslim brethren like Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan and Saif Ali Khan are among Indian tinseltown’s most successful contemporary actors.
India has often accused militant groups from Pakistan and Bangladesh of helping local terrorists carry out a wave of bombings in recent years, with targets ranging from mosques to Hindu temples.

A sneak-peek at ‘just friends’ of filmdom!

Can a young boy and girl be just ‘good friends’? Can a relationship between a male and female strictly be platonic? This is a dicey question and has always been a cause of much debate. But what makes the question all the more intriguing is the big bad world of celebrities, who make it very difficult to decipher whether their ‘just friends’ relationship is actually restricted to being that or the tag is being used as a garb to hide a sizzling clandestine romance.

‘Just Friends’ turned lovers

Deepika Padukone & Ranbir Kapoor:


“Deepika is a friend of mine, though I haven't been in touch with her for some months. I'm sure she's going to do very well for herself." This is what ‘good friend’ Ranbir Kapoor said just before the release of his debut film ‘Saawariya’. And within months, his ‘friend’ Deepika (who had been dating Yuvraj Singh) became his sweetheart and they became the ‘It’ couple of Bollywood. That was some speedy turn of status!

Kareena Kapoor & Saif Ali Khan:


On the sets of ‘Tashan’ and ‘Race’, they played chess, back slapped and acted as buddies. Saif Ali Khan had split with girlfriend Rosa, and was being linked with the hot Bipasha Basu. But gradually something else started cooking up between the duo, which made Bebo bid farewell to boyfriend Shahid Kapoor leading to a heart-rending ‘Jab We Split’ saga. The so called ‘friends’ turned into a ‘hot couple’, showing that ‘just friends’ is just a lexicon in Bollywood.

Katrina Kaif & Salman Khan:


She is the longest lasting woman in Sallu’s life and has been spotted with him all over the world. Yet, ‘the sexiest woman’ maintains in her interviews (including ‘Koffee with Karan) that she is just a ‘good friend’ of Salman Khan. And we can’t help but just stare at this ‘friendly’ joke!

Priyanka Chopra& Harman Baweja:


There were speculations regarding their relationship since the time Kareena Kapoor walked out of ‘Love Story 2050’ and Priyanka Chopra took up the role. The onscreen and offscreen Love Story continued under the cloak of ‘sweet friendship’. Now, grapevine has it that all’s not well in their love nest and they may head towards splitsville.



Just Friendship Continues



Shahid Kapoor & Vidya Balan:

Media went berserk to extract ‘more than friends’ saga from them but they stoically maintained ‘strictly friends’ story. Grapevine alleges that there is more to their story than just ‘Kismat Konnection’, but they sweet-talk about each other and end up saying ‘just friends’ with smiles and dimples. Meanwhile, tennis sensation Sania Mirza and Shahid’s bond is also much speculated but that too is given the ‘good friends’ angle. Media thinks otherwise but what can it do than just waiting and watching?

Katrina Kaif & Akshay Kumar:


They are the most popular onscreen ‘jodi’ in recent times. The gorgeous Kat perfectly complements the handsome Khiladi Kumar. The chemistry between the duo was so palpable during a cricket match that boyfriend Salman became miffed and jealous of their closeness. However, Akshay shows off his ‘happily married’ status with wifey Twinkle Khanna and Kat maintain ‘just friends’ and ‘wonderful co-stars’ tags, thereby dismissing double-timing rumours.

Sonam Kapoor & Ranbir Kapoor:


The two star kids have been childhood friends, what with their celebrity parents moving in the same circle. The two were linked-up during the making of their debut flick ‘Saawariya’ and were spotted hand in hand in a five-star hotel. Everybody wanted the sweet friends to turn into a couple, but then the diva Deepika Padukone glided into Ranbir’s life. Ranbir and Sonam’s much-awaited romance failed to take-off and they remained just ‘good friends’.

Rani Mukerjee & Abhishek Bachchan:


Speculation was rife regarding their relationship as well. She was his lucky charm and their ‘Yuva’ and ‘Bunty aur Bubbly’ met with great success. They shared an excellent rapport and looked like the younger version of parents Amitabh and Jaya, but fate wanted their ‘just friendship’ to continue. Abhishek fell for beauty queen Aishwarya while Aditya Chopra came in Rani’s life. She was not invited to Jr B’s wedding but later peace was restored and the duo happily completed ‘Laga Chunari Mein Daag’.

Kajol & Shah Rukh Khan:


They scorched the screen with their onscreen chemistry in blockbusters like ‘DDLJ’, ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’ and ‘Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham’. But off-screen they maintained a close friendship. Inspite of hubby Ajay Devgan’s discomfort, SRK-Kajol continue to be friends and will be soon seen together in Karan Johar’s forthcoming ‘My Name is Khan’.

Now, that the celebrity world has such criss-cross and confusing web of friendship, where the line between ‘good friends’ and ‘lovers’ often fades, it is difficult to gauge whether true friendship between opposite sex exists. There is something called platonic relationship in the real world but in filmdom, the sempiternal question continues: Can a male and female actor be just ‘good friends’?

But before you start pondering over the question, we wish you a very Happy Friendship Day.

Rahul Bose to Follow SRK’s Example

It seems ShahRukh Khan started the trend and others are happy following it with glee.
Some time back ShahRukh Khan was seen waist down in a bathtub full of roses as he gave the world of advertisement a new definition by facilitating a role reversal of sorts. Instead of a woman endorsing a beauty soap, something which has been a trend for decades (and would hopefully remain so in time to come), Khan enjoyed the attention of beauties around him as he soaked himself in wet rose petals.
Now Rahul Bose too has followed suit and done so the same at the behest of Mallika Sherawat. However, this time around, it is not done for a commercial but the film MAAN GAYE MUGHALL-E-AZAM. For one of the romantic numbers in the film where Bose has tried to demonstrate his six-packs for quite some duration, Rahul and Mallika have shared some cozy moments together. However, it is disappointing for quite a few since instead of Mallika, it is Rahul who enjoys all the pleasures of being treated to a rose petal bath!

Aamir or Shahrukh: Top Brand

Amir Khan, clearly, has emerged as the biggest brand in the film industry today. Although his popularity has been consistent over the last two decades, his recent work behind the camera and the quality of films produced under his banner — Lagaan, Taare Zameen Par and Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Na — have made him the most powerful brand in the industry today.
“He makes his directorial debut with a film about a dyslexic kid and delivers a blockbuster. Then a film with new faces and director gets off to a phenomenal start, solely because Aamir’s name as producer is attached to it,” says trade analyst Taran Adarsh, who believes that Aamir is number one in the industry today.
Although Aamir tops the power chart in the overall scheme of things, ShahRukh Khan continues to rule the roost when it comes to the actors.
“Shah Rukh is undoubtedly the biggest star. His pull overseas and even among Indian audiences is astounding,” says trade expert Komal Nahta. Aamir and Shah Rukh have, in fact, been having a close contest for the number one spot in the actor’s space for years now. But Aamir’s unwillingness to play to the gallery (he refuses to attend award functions and has been media shy, until recently) and Shah Rukh’s popularity in the overseas market have ensured SRK assuming the top spot, till now.
Another strong contender in the ‘popularity contest’ is Akshay Kumar. “Akshay has proven that he has sustaining power. His string of hits has established him as a star who is proving to be tough competition for the two Khans,” says film critic Indu Mirani. In fact, Akshay has raced ahead of Salman Khan, Hrithik Roshan and even Amitabh Bachchan, the veteran coming in only at the sixth spot on the power list.
Among the female actors, Aishwarya Rai-Bachchan finally gives way to Kareena Kapoor. India’s only true international star has had the going tough in both the Indian and foreign markets, and even her teaming up with other Bachchan family members failed to make Sarkar Raj work. However, she is nowhere out of the running yet.
On the other hand, the success and awards the Kapoor girl won for Jab We Met has made her hot property among the big banners, and number one on the female actors’ list.
You would think that Yash Raj Films would be the worst hit after the past two years’ dismal performance. The production house has taken a severe beating with a string of flops like Neal ‘n’ Nikki, Jhoom Barabar Jhoom, Tashan and Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic lately. However, the brand continues to be the number one production house in the country, and with scion Aditya Chopra taking the directorial baton with the Shah Rukh starrer Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, which releases later this year, things may look up.
But with Aamir Khan Productions and UTV Motion Pictures close on their heels, Yash Raj need to pull up their socks big time.
Karan Johar, or KJo as he is known, assumes the number one position in the directors’ list. His last release Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna garnered big numbers overseas. Now, with Johar reportedly teaming up with Shah Rukh and Kajol once again for My Name Is Khan, more fireworks can be expected.
Abbas Tyrewala finds himself topping the writers’ list. The best music director list is topped by, no surprises there, AR Rahman. The maestro continues to enthrall listeners with scores as varied as the ones in Jodhaa Akbar and Jaane Tu… Sonu Nigam tops the singers list.
For the moment though, we would like to raise a toast to the Numero Uno — who is at number two in the actors and producers list and at number four as director, the all-rounder — Aamir Khan.

SRK To Attened Arjun’s Restaurant

The actor is turning restaurateur with a lounge-cum-dining bar in New Delhi. Called Lap (which stands for Lounge and Party), the place opens this November.
Arjun is starting out in Delhi because that’s where he started his modelling career. There are plans of setting up Lap in Mumbai next year.
Old idea
Says Arjun, “It’s not an idea I suddenly had overnight. It is something I wanted to do for long. While travelling around the globe, I’d always keep a keen eye out for such places.”
Lap will be set up along with Mumbai’s well-known restaurateur AD Singh (the name behind Olive). “I don’t know much about the restaurant business, so I teamed up with him due to his expertise in the field.”
Making people wonder
AD Singh and the actor have been talking about their venture for a while - and it has finally taken shape. “I was on a flight to Goa at New Year’s last year. He was also on board and that’s when we got discussing Lap - a name which both of us came up with together. At least it will make people wonder…and then we can say it’s only ‘Lounge And Party!’ “
The actor’s wife Mehr Jesia is also providing valuable inputs. “Everyone can give their suggestions, we are listening to all of them. The décor is being done by Nozer Wadia,” says Arjun.
It is learnt that Lap’s launch will be a star-studded affair with several B-Town folk attending. Buzz is that buddy ShahRukh Khan is likely to do the opening honours. “Everyone will be invited,” says Arjun who has had several tasting sessions already.
In 2006, the actor turned filmmaker with I See You that was made by his production house, Chasing Ganesha. Next up, is the restaurant. “I always keep my options open and look for new challenges,” adds Arjun who will be seen in Abhishek Kapoor’s Rock On and Deepak Tijori’s Fox.