Minissha and Priyanka Chopra clash again at the box office this friday

Minissha is in the lead in battle of box office as she has won the first round, Their last film Bachana aaye hasino and God tussi was release on the same day (15th August which was a national holiday) where BAH did fairly well.

Now again these two actresses clashing together with Kidnap and Drona (releasing on 2nd oct. coincidentally again on national holiday)...

Also the songs Oop Cha from Drona and Hey Ya from Kidnap are both about strong independent women, full of attitude...lets just wish the best of luck to these two sultry sirens

Abhishek said he was looking forward to Aishwarya's presence

Abhishek Bachchan, who is all geared up for the release of "Drona" this week, says he doesn’t mind being overshadowed by his wife Aishwarya Rai.

At this year’s Cannes Film Festival attended by him and his wife, Abhishek was repeatedly asked how it felt to be overshadowed by his wife.

"Although the intention behind such questions is obviously not honourable, I don’t get rattled at all. It’s a pleasure to be overshadowed by the most beautiful woman in the world. I had a ball doing the ’Unforgettable’ concerts with Aishwarya, " Abhishek told.

After "Guru", the actor is teaming up with his wife once again for Mani Ratnam’s next film.

"I know I’ll have a great time shooting Mani Ratnam’s film with her. Right now I’m looking forward to her return from Brazil, " he said.

Aishwayra was in Brazil shooting for Shankar’s "Robot". Abhishek said he was looking forward to Aishwarya’s presence at the premiere of "Drona".

"It sounds very romantic to say my wife is flying down especially to be at my film’s premiere. But sadly, it is not true. Her schedule for Shankar’s ’Robot’ was supposed to wrap up a week before the premiere, and it did. So she was going to be in Mumbai for the ’Drona’ premiere anyway.

"Having said this, let me add, she’d have come back to Mumbai for the occasion from any part of the world even if she was shooting."

Aishwarya was recently in Paris to shoot the latest L’Oreal ad. Both her in-laws, Jaya and Amitabh Bachchan, were also there, but they couldn’t meet her.

"Yes they were there. Unfortunately ma and pa left a day before Aishwarya arrived in Paris. Pa had to be back to shoot a television programme to promote the ’Unforgettable’ concerts in India."

"Yes, the ’Unforgettable’ concerts are now going to be staged in India, beginning with Mumbai.

"We’re in the process of working out the venues and dates. There’ll be more time for all this once ’Drona’ is released, "said Abhishek.

Directed by Goldie Behl, "Drona" also stars Priyanka Chopra and Kay Kay Menon.

apologise as a producer-Saif Ali Khan

Actor Saif Ali Khan found himself in trouble when he messed up with some journalist photographers during the shoot of his forthcoming ‘3 Idiots’ in Patiala. It all triggered off when two photo journalists, one belonging to a newspaper and the other to local TV news channel, tried to click photographs of Saif at the railway station where the shooting of the film was on. Khan objected to two photojournalists getting too close; as a result, his security staff allegedly harassed the photographers and took away their cameras.

“I was doing the photo shoot, Saif came in front called for his guards and asked them to take me aside and beat me up,” says photo journalist, Pawan Patialvi.

The actor lodged a complaint against them with the railway police station of Patiala. Several media persons assembled on the Mall Road on Sunday night and demanded action against Saif. Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal, who is town for for a function, sent his political colleagues Prem Singh Chandumajra of Shiromani Akali Dal and Raj Khurana of BJP to pacify the journalists. The journalists later withdrew their protest.

On Monday evening, the actor issued a formal apology and also cleared his stance regarding the issue.

“I apologise as a producer. As an individual I would like to say that the allegation that he was beaten up on my orders is not correct at all,” says actor Saif Ali Khan.

I felt a teenager again-Sanjay Dutt

Actor Sanjay Dutt speaks out on his forthcoming release Kidnap.

What attracted you to Kidnap?

The moment Sanjay (Gadhvi) narrated the first line of the film, I knew I had to do it. It’s something I haven’t done in all these years. There was a sense of identification with the character - a father who deeply and immensely cares for his daughter and will go to any extent for her safety and happiness.

Did it help that Sanjay Gadhvi was the maker of the Dhoom series?

To be honest I had not seen Dhoom 1 or Dhoom 2, except their promos when he approached me. I believed in the subject and in him and decided to do it.

Tell us more about Kidnap?

My producers, director and co-actors went through a lot of anxiety during the shoot of Kidnap because of my trial. But all’s well that ends well. I am happy the film is complete, ready and looking good. It is my first release in 2008. I play a father to Sonia (Minissha Lamba) who is kidnapped by Kabir (Imran Khan). It’s an edge-of-the-seat thriller, which everyone is bound to enjoy. It has some great action and emotion and has been well written and directed. I hope my audience goes out and watches it.

Was it difficult playing a father?

No, why should it be? I have played father to Hrithik Roshan earlier.

How was it to work with the industry’s hottest youngster, Imran Khan?

We got along well. He’s a humble, conscientious and hardworking boy. He’s into his craft. He’ll go a long way and I hope and pray that success doesn’t change him.

Anything else you can recount during the shoot of Kidnap?

I enjoyed the action. It had my adrenaline rushing. I felt a teenager again! (Smiles).

Aishwarya wants to be with Abhishek’s side on his big day

Aishwarya Bachchan is currently wrapping her Robot film shoot in hurry to arrive back in India, just to be with her hubby Abhishek Bachchan on October 1st for his film Drona’s premiere in Mumbai.

Confirming us the news, Aish’s secretary Hari Singh said, “Aishwarya was in Peru till last week for a song shoot of Shankar’s Enthiran (formerly called Robot) starring South Superstar Rajinikanth. Now presently she is shooting for the film in the rain forests of Brazil. She wants to be with Abhishek’s side on his big day on October 1st. She is as excited as him to check him out in his first super hero avatar.”

One can remember, Abhishek making a late entry for Aishwarya’s Jodhaa Akbar premiere held on February 14th at the Imax Multiplex in Wadala, Mumbai. Abhishek was shooting in Jaipur that time for Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra’s Dilli 6. He was to reach on time but a flight delay made him arrive at the venue at around 11:30 pm just when the film was about to finish.

Bollywood Shama Sikandar still struggling to make a big name in Bollywood industry

The latest item songs craze of Bollywood Shama Sikandar is a renowned television star, however still struggling to make a big name in Bollywood industry.

Akshay attended the function with wifey Twinkle Khanna who looked as gorgeous

Bollywood star Akshay Kumar was awarded the title of ‘Brand Ambassador of the year’ at the CNBC Awaaz consumer awards 2008 held at Mumbai. IPL commissioner Lalit Modi was awarded for transforming cricket in India, and state owned telecom company BSNL was inducted into the ‘Hall of Fame’ for its contribution.

Akshay attended the function with wifey Twinkle Khanna who looked as gorgeous as ever being just the perfect match for handsome Akki. Guests of honour presiding over the function were the minister for consumer affairs and public distribution, Sharad Pawar, and the minister for civil aviation, Praful Patel. The presenting partner for the function was ICICI credit cards, with ICICI Bank executive director Vaidyanathan also present for the awards ceremony.

We wish them luck and not just them but all the soldiers of our country-Kareena

Kareena’s 28th birthday couldn’t have been more special. She had her beau Saif with her in the chilling weather of North India and then getting an opportunity to meet the Jawans at Kargil. It was Bebo’s mom Babita’s idea that to make her birthday somewhat different and special, she spend her birthday with our soldiers working on duty at Kargil.

Speaking about this wonderful experience, Kareena says, “We weren’t just surprised to see Jawans working for our Country, but astonished to see that they were comfortable under such drastic climatic conditions.

Talking about how it happened, Kareena said, “As we were passing by Kargil one day prior to my birthday, mom told me to visit the Jawans as it would be a unique experience and a once in a lifetime opportunity to get their blessings as well. Both Saif and I were excited as well as amazed with the way the soldiers live in such extreme climates and still manage to keep calm under pressure, which gives us an immense sense of pride. We wish them luck and not just them but all the soldiers of our country and wish to thank them for all that they have sacrificed and done for us - the people.”

Saif and Kareena could be so down to earth

Would Saif be able to make it to ring in Kareena’s birthday? Speculation was rife that Saif was mostly likely be unable to make it for the special day because he and Kareena were committed to thier respective projects.

Worst, Kareena was shooting at a remote location (Leh) that was way beyond reach. But guess love overcomes all obstacles and a determined Saif did usher in Kareena’s birthday in Kargil.

A close friend of Kareena revealed, "Direct flights to Leh on that day were cancelled because of bad weather. So Saif flew from New Delhi to Srinagar.

He then drove down from Srinagar to Kargil for seven hours at a stretch. Kareena, who was shooting at a remote location, drove down to Kargil too.

Bebo always wanted to go to Kargil to meet the jawans so along with Saifm she went ahead to Kargil to celebrate her birthday with the soldiers there. Bebo was so happy when she reached there. She was really really ecstatic. "

Saif and Kareena even met all the jawans personally. The friend added, "The jawans were touched by Saif and Kareena’s humbleness.

They just couldn’t believe that despite being stars Saif and Kareena could be so down to earth.of course they couldn’t stop raving about Kareena’s looks. They were tongue tied in the presence of the actress!"

Obviously its been a rocking birthday for Bebo this year!

Katrina featured on the top of the list for Arjun Rampal

This weekend on ’Sajid Superstars’, Arjun Rampal and Dia Mirza are the guests for the evening. Read on to know what to expect from the show:

- First to arrive is Arjun Rampal who talks in length about his personal life. From the place of his birth to the college he studied in Delhi University to his initial days of struggle in the world of glamour, Arjun gives a detailed account.

- He shares an interesting incident about his courtship days with popular supermodel Meher Bhasin. Because he didn’t have much money in hand during his earlier days, he and Meher couldn’t afford to eat non-vegetarian food on a daily basis. So it used to be once a week for them!

- However, now with his financial status being up there, he frequents quite a few eateries with his wife and kids. No wonder, he gets a special gift from Sajid Khan that revolves around food. Check the special episode to know what does Arjun have in store for him!

- There is some shock in store for audiences as Arjun discloses the real status about rumors revolving around him being a bisexual.

Sajid probes him around the casting couch in the fashion industry and also nails him on the rumors which floated around his alleged affair with a popular male dress designer a few years back.

While Arjun does acknowledge that he didn’t have disrespect for any individual regardless of his or her sexual orientation, he admits that his fans ranging from males, females to homosexuals. But how about his own orientation? Arjun tells it all!

- Last few months have been great for Arjun professionally with Don, Om Shanti Om and recently Rock On turning out to be huge box office winners.

Arjun confesses that Om Shanti Om is quite close to his heart since it changed his life. He appreciates Farah Khan for being the best director he has worked with since she could help him understand himself as an actor.

- No wonder, the best scene of his features from Om Shanti Om while the worst scene is from.....Any guesses?!?

- He openly reveals his admiration for Shah Rukh Khan and details how he has not just influenced his life but taught him a lot as a producer, actor and person.

- When asked whom did he find the hottest of all, Katrina featured on the top of the list for Arjun

- Arrival of Dia Mirza on the show makes things further interesting as she talks about what went wrong between Vashu Bhagnani (who launched her in Rehnna Hai Terre Dil Mein) and her. She was apparently the lead heroine in his Om Jai Jagdish as well but was later replaced by Tara Sharma.

- Dia Mirza gets sentimental talking about her love life. She says that her heart is pure when in love and she doesn’t feel like hiding anything from anyone.

For her, it is the love that an individual carries for her which is more important that the riches he carries. No wonder, Sajid and Arjun were seen pulling her leg for this statement of hers!

- As many are aware, Lara Dutta, Priyanka Chopra and Dia Mirza were #1, 2 and 3 in the Miss India contest a few years back. This prompted Ranbir to ask Dia a cheeky question that whether three of them continue to be enemies till date!

- On being asked that who is the better actor between the three of them, Dia boldly said that it is her. She also declared that even the combined talent of Lara and Priyanka wasn’t on par with the talent that she came with.

- Wait, there is more to come. On quizzed about the woman who was prettier - whether Ash or herself - Dia cheekily answered that she knew the answer but since Ash is senior, she would say that it’s her

Katrina Kaif has been approached to perform at the function

Salman Khan has displayed his painting skills on quite a few canvases now, but how could his journey as a painter be complete, if he didn’t sketch out her picture perfect lady love Katrina Kaif. So, here he is. Reportedly, before Salman left for Paris and London to shoot his film ‘London Dreams’, he had a small party with Katrina and gifted her the painting. Not to mentions Kats was stunned and thrilled at this gesture from Salman.

Could we mention here that Salman stills retains the portrait of his ex-love Aishwarya Rai in his collection and despite Katrina’s insistence he refuses to part with it. Salman has inherited his passion for painting from his painter mother, Salma. The actor showcased his paintings in an exhibition last year and wants to do it again to raise funds for his Salman Khan Foundation.

Meanwhile, Salman Khan is not the only one to be smitten by Katrina Kaif’s beauty. Reports have it that Bhutan’s new King in waiting Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuk is a big fan of Katrina Kaif and has not missed a single movie of hers. The 27 year old prince’s coronation is going to be solemnized at Thimpu, the capital of Bhutan, and Katrina Kaif has been approached to perform at the function, as the new King is fond of her.

Given the angelic beauty, Kaif is bestowed with, we have no one to blame. Right!!

What Shekhar said made an impact on Sushmita Sen

It was not easy for Sushmita Sen to decide to direct her dream project on Rani Laxmibai.

She may have been missing from the silver screen for quite some time now, but much has been happening in the life of Sushmita Sen. No, we’re not talking about her alleged affair with a certain director of her upcoming film. We’re talking about Sush’s film on Rani Laxmibai of Jhansi who died fighting the British in 1857.

The character of the fearless queen has been so close to Sush’s heart that she’s been working on it for more than a year.

As Sush has disclosed, it all began with just a few pages of history on Rani Laxmibai. But as Sush did an extensive research and dug deeper into books and documents, she realized that the story of the valiant queen is waiting to be told. According to Sush, what people normally know about Rani Laxmibai accounts for just a few percent of her real story.

Interestingly, even as Sush was doing her research, she hadn’t finalized the director. She met Shekhar Kapur and offered him the project. Shekhar heard Sush out and suggested that she direct the film herself.

Shekhar argued that Sush was so close to the film that if she hired any director, he/she would not direct it as she envisions it. As a result, Sush would end up having many a disagreement with her director on the sets.

What Shekhar said made an impact on Sush. But she pondered over it for about six months before taking the decision to direct the film herself. Though she would take the help of her good friend Mudassar Aziz (who’s directed Sush in Dulha Mil Gaya ), it is Sush who would control the project as the director.

The actress is currently in the process of finalizing the cast.

Deepika’s physical limits came when she trained to do her stunts

It isn’t an easy feat for any lissome model-turned-actress to undergo the rigours of learning the martial arts.

Deepika Padukone did just that and more for her role of a spunky Chinese girl in Nikhil Advani’s film Chandni Chowk To China . The movie narrates the tale of an Indian cook’s journey from Old Delhi to China and back. Akshay Kumar plays the lead role.

Since Deepika has a lot of action scenes in the film, she decided to do the stunts herself rather than opt for a body double even though it meant a hard and arduous training for not just weeks, but months.

To start with, Deepika switched to a high-protein diet and began practicing ju-jitsu, a Japanese form of martial arts that involves unarmed combat of an opponent. The term ju-jitsu literally means ‘gentle skill’. Deepika’s training as an athlete (her father is a badminton champ and her sister is a golfer) helped her in learning the martial arts.

But learning the basics of ju-jitsu was just half the battle won. The real test of Deepika’s physical limits came when she trained to do her stunts under Chinese experts who taught her how to balance her body while being suspended mid-air by cables and wires. Deepika also learnt dexterous use of small weapons like knives.

This training of hers lasted about four months. During the film’s shooting her co-star Akshay Kumar also guided her in action scenes.

Though it was taxing on her body, Deepika today doesn’t rue having undergone the tough preparation. Firstly, she has done her stunts in ‘Chandni Chowk To China’ convincingly. Secondly, she got to learn the skills that will remain with her for life.

Guys better think twice before taking panga with her!

Obviously it's been a rocking birthday for Bebo this year

Would Saif be able to make it to ring in Kareena’s birthday? Speculation was rife that Saif was mostly likely be unable to make it for the special day because he and Kareena were committed to their respective projects. Worst, Kareena was shooting at a remote location (Leh) that was way beyond reach. But guess love overcomes all obstacles and a determined Saif did usher in Kareena’s birthday in Kargil.

A close friend of Kareena revealed, ’’Direct flights to Leh on that day were cancelled because of bad weather. So Saif flew from New Delhi to Srinagar. He then drove down from Srinagar to Kargil for seven hours at a stretch. Kareena, who was shooting at a remote location, drove down to Kargil too. Bebo always wanted to go to Kargil to meet the jawans so along with Saif she went ahead to Kargil to celebrate her birthday with the soldiers there. Bebo was so happy when she reached there. She was really ecstatic. ’’

Saif and Kareena even met all the jawans personally. The friend further added, ’’The jawans were touched by Saif and Kareena’s humbleness. They just couldn’t believe that despite being stars Saif and Kareena could be so down to earth. Of course they couldn’t stop raving about Kareena’s looks. They were tongue tied in the presence of the actress!’’ Obviously it’s been a rocking birthday for Bebo this year!

Oscar winning actress Hillary Swank has investments in Aquitainia

Despite being difference in technology and many other aspects of film making Bollywood and Hollywood stars both are unanimous on aspects of investing in Middle-East. Shahrukh Khan has invested in real-estate in Ras Al Khaimah, one of the UAE’s seven emirates where as Oscar winning actress Hillary Swank has investments in Aquitainia, a $1.49 billion project on The World islands in Dubai.

Internal problem between the workers On Himesh Reshammiya movie

Early this week, it was a clear commotion on the sets of Himesh Reshammiya’s Mudh Mudh Ke Na Dekkh Mudh Mudh Ke aka M2KNDM2K.

Some of the workers apparently stopped work for an entire day and launched a protest, Reason?

They claimed that they were unpaid for their work and after waiting patiently for last few days, they eventually gave up and put the shooting to standstill. Incidentally, it was supposed to be the last day of the shooting for the film’s current schedule.

Says a cast member who was present on the sets when the issue snowballed, "There was clear resentment amongst the workers as they were constantly demanding money to be paid to them for their work over all these days.

They had approached people at the levels reachable to them but to no avail. Eventually, they couldn’t take it anymore and called it quits. They declared loud and clear that the work would resume only if they were paid for the days they had spent on the sets."

But wasn’t it unethical to come up with such measures? "Was it ethical on the part of the makers to keep their own crew members unpaid? Don’t these workers have to run their families? All said and done, it never seemed to be the case of shortage of money. These workers were just being shortchanged all this while", protests the source in favor of workers.

Himesh Reshammiya who plays the lead in the film was not present on the sets that day. However, Niharika Singh (leading lady of the film), Farida Jalal and Shakeel Khan (who plays a blind man in the film) amongst others saw all the action right in front of them.

On being contacted, a crew member (on the condition of anonymity) confirmed the news, "Yes, something to the tune of this did indeed happen though everything has been sorted out now. In fact on the same evening the workers were paid their money."

Replying to the query around what had actually transpired; she divulged after an initial hesitation, "It was an Internal problem between the workers. The payment was given to an agent who didn’t further pay workers on time.

This is why once the schedule got over as per the plans on 15th September; they created a scene a day later. The incident happened on 16th and hence didn’t impact the schedule at all.

Thankfully, there is no issue anymore and we all are looking forward to coming back for the next schedule.

Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan's 'Kareena' tattoo that attracted much media attention

After having had a lion tattoo on his forearm for some time, Bollywood star Sanjay Dutt is getting two new tattoos - another lion on his chest and the word "honour" in Japanese on his arm.

"The actor wanted another lion tattoo, but since he already has one, this one had to be different. We sat together and finally settled for one big lion design ... it’s going to be a coloured one," tattoo artist Vishwas Dorwekar of Hakim Aalim’s saloon revealed.

"Apart from this, the actor is also getting the word "honour" in Japanese on his arm. This one will be short and simple," Dorwekar told IANS here.

The artist will also be improvising Dutt’s forearm lion tattoo, as the actor is not happy with the way the tattoo had turned out.

"He wants some basic changes in his first tattoo and I’m working on it," he said.

Not many know that Dorwekar is the man behind Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan’s ’Kareena’ tattoo that attracted much media attention.

"Saif knew what he wanted and how exactly he wanted it to be done. Tattoo drawing didn’t take much time, as he was very clear in his thoughts," he said.

Dorwekar has been in this business for the past 25 years and believes that tattoos were always there but Bollywood stars have made them popular.

"My family has been in this profession for ages, but initially it was only religious tattoos that were popular. Hindus and Catholics used to get religious tattoos on various parts of their body," he said.

"Now, Bollywood has made tattoos very popular and people are imitating their favourite actors," he added.

Describing tattoo making as a "tickling art", the artist said: "The process is best described as a tickling art because when the machine touches your body, it gives a ticklish feeling."

Amisha is looking super hot on the cover of MansWorld

We have already seen Amisha Patel looking hot on the cover of MansWorld - here is full hot view. Makeover has Ameesha (yeah new spellings) dropping her surname ’patel’ - WTF!

Anyways, Amisha is looking super hot these days. First it was beautiful French bride view on Vogue and now super hot view on MansWorld - way to GO!

B–town's MunnaBhai is all set to take his fans for an adventurous ride

Before you get puzzled, allow us to be more specific, actually Sanjay Dutt aka MunnaBhai is gearing up to turn producer and start films under his own banner, Sanjay Dutt Productions. And the very first film which he wishes to make is on adventure sports. For that matter Sanju has signed in KAAL fame director Soham Shah.

Sanjay, who is already working in Soham’s upcoming flick LUCK, was so impressed with Soham’s style of working that he instantaneously decided to rope in Soham for his first production venture. According to Sanjay Soham is the perfect director to direct the film on adventure sports.

If the reports are to be believed than this maiden venture of Sanjay Dutt won’t be based on a single sport; instead it would be a mix of several sports. B-town’s MunnaBhai is all set to take his fans for an adventurous ride!!

The film is still under scripting stage and expected to hit the floors early next year.

Meanwhile, Sanjay is busy promoting his much-awaited film KIDNAP which hits the screens on 2nd October.

SINGH IS KINNG completing 50 days at the box office

SINGH IS KINNG would be entering its 8th week tomorrow, hence completing 50 days at the box office. The way SINGH IS KINNG has managed to hold on, it would certainly become Akshay’s biggest money spinner ever as WELCOME record of 76 crores appears in sight to be broken in weeks to come. The film has already earned 75 crore at the box office and gathering 1 crore more in next few weeks is pretty much an achievable task. For Anees Bazmee too, it would be second 75 crore + superhit in a row whereas Katrina Kaif is already basking in the glory of countless hits that she has delivered in last year and a half.

SINGH IS KINNG comes in the wake of recent Akshay successes like WELCOME, BHOOL BHULAIYAA, HEYY BABYY, NAMASTE LONDON, BHAGAM BHAG and PHIR HERA PHERI. His TASHAN didn’t perform at the box office but is still the biggest money spinner when it comes to flops coming out of Hindi cinema.

Now 2009 looks even grander with CHANDNI CHOWK TO CHINA looking massive followed by KAMBAKTH ISHQ which is another huge project. HOUSEFULL and BLUE would release in 2009 as well while his long delayed TASVEER would finally see the light of the day too. Then there is Priyadarshan’s DE DANA DAN which is expected to be a quickie that would release before next year end.

With such a massive line up of films in months to come, Akshay is certainly looking forward to a cracker of a year in 2009.

A friend had seen Imran at Aamir Khan Productions

To be released this Id on Wednesday, 1st October, ‘Kidnap’ is out to set another milestone for budding actor Imran Khan. The character Imran plays in the film is a far cry from his role in ‘Jaane Tu…’. The film has Imran playing a kidnapper and instead of hush-hush romance between the hero and the heroine, it essentially traces the complex relation between a kidnapper and his victim.

Imraan and Minissha displayed great chemistry on-screen and off-screen. The duo got along like a house on fire from the first day of the shoot. For one shot of the film, Imran suggested that he practice a knife stunt with Minissha before the actual shoot. Minissha readily agreed and even bruised her fingers with the knife while rehearsing. The efforts paid and resulted in a bone-chilling take in the end. Later, Minissha kept chiding Imran about her injury saying that he hurt her only to avenge his loss in a card game they played on the sets!

Commenting on how the sensational newcomer of Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na, Imran Khan, got signed up for the project, writer Shivani Bhathija reveals exclusively, “A friend had seen Imran at Aamir Khan Productions’ office and said he looked interesting. ‘Interesting’ is what we needed for Kabir so I mentioned his name to Sanjay (Gadhvi). Sanjay saw Imran and called me immediately to say that we had found Kabir.”

Elaborating on her first reaction on seeing Imran, Bathija adds, “I met Imran first at his house when Sanjay (Gadhvi) and I went to give him a narration. He was exactly what I had in mind when I wrote the character of Kabir four years before setting eyes on him. Kidnap was destined for Imran.”

Remarks director Sanjay Gadhvi, “I am proud of Shibani because she wrote the script of Kidnap even before she worked on Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna and Fanaa. This is really one of her initial scripts. It so happened that these films released before and we started making Kidnap only last year. As for Imran, I signed him much before the release of Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na. So when the latter became a hit and everyone went gaga over Imran, I said this is just the beginning….wait till you see him in Kidnap!”

There is this trace of modern yet ethnic element to her character

Amrita Rao has been receiving some stunning reviews for her role in Welcome to Sajjanpur in which she plays a country girl in Shyam Benegal’s movie. Amrita and Shyam both come from the same area and speak Konkoni. How did she cope with the local dialect? "We had the assistance of dialogue writer Ashok Mishra, who is from Baghelkhand, on the sets," she says. "And every day, after pack up, I used to sit with him to further perfect my lines."

Amrita won a Best Female Debut Award and Superstar of Tomorrow Award for Ishq Vishk and Most Promising New Talent Award for Vivaah. She is lucky in that different directors have seen her in different styles of roles and her acting ability has grown accordingly with fine performances in films such Main Hoon Na and My Name is Anthony Goncalves. She will soon be seen opposite Harman Baweja in Victory and has a glamorous role in Shortcut.

What can she tell us about her upcoming films? "Shortcut.has me playing a very glamorous role. It`s a thriller with a right mix of comedy, romance and some twists," she explains. "Then I have Victory with Harman Baweja. I play a girl from Jaisalmer. She is a medical student from a small town, which is very highly influenced by tourism. There is this trace of modern yet ethnic element to her character."

The strain proved to be too much for Mallika Sherawat

As a result of shooting non-stop for Jennifer Lynch’s Naagin The Snake Woman, Mallika Sherawat fell ill last week . Govind Menon and Mallika’s brother Vikram are co-producing the film along with Ratan Jain of Venus Records and Tapes. Irrfan Khan co-stars.

Though it’s a normal shift, it sometimes stretches from 9 am to 9 pm. The strain proved to be too much for Mallika. She is working very hard on her role. Her make-up alone takes four hours! Last Friday, the actress was in no condition to shoot. Her physician Dr Agarwal had to be called in to give her shots to help her get through the day.”

The actress is a strict vegetarian and believes in eating only natural foods, so her protein intake isn’t high, which could have been a cause of her collapse.

Aamir immediately called up Imran and advised him to refrain from the risky

Aamir Khan has been a real good Mamu. Recently, during the shooting of Imran’s forthcoming ‘Kidnap’, an incident further showed the strong relationship the duo share.

‘Kidnap’ required a stunt scene, which involved jumping off from the 20th floor of a building. Sanjay Dutt, who is Imran’s co-star in the film was observing the stunt from below, which he thought would be done by a body double. But, to his immense surprise, Baba spotted the body double on the ground beside him, while Imran was up there, ready for the stunt.

Hot-blooded Imran was bent upon proving that, like Akshay Kumar, he can manage his own stunts. But experienced actor Sanjay saw danger in it. He directly called up mamu to stop his charge from taking the dangerous step. Aamir immediately called up Imran and advised him to refrain from the risky stunt at such an early stage in his career. This made Imran relent, and he agreed to let his body double perform the stunt.

Bipasha in a sizzling song ‘Jiya Jala Na’ sung by Sunidhi Chouhan

Bipasha Basu just loves her role in her forthcoming ‘Pankh’ directed by Sudipto Chattopadhyay. The movie will see Bips playing an imaginary character who exists in the fantasies of a young boy, Jerry. This 20-year-old boy is confused about his identity - whether he’s a boy or a girl, a man or eunuch. This psychological dilemma is faced by him as he is a child artiste who acts as a girl in films.

Bipasha’s look for this movie is created by Rocky S and Gavin Miguel. The designers have re-created Sophia Loren and Liza Minelli in Bipasha in a sizzling song ‘Jiya Jala Na’ sung by Sunidhi Chouhan. In this song Bipasha tries to seduce Jerry. She causes a constant disturbance in Jerry’s mind. His only relief is when he sexually fantasizes about Bips.

Warner Bros against the producers of Hari Puttar on copy writing issue

A New Delhi Court dismissed the Law Suit filed by Warner Bros against the producers of Hari Puttar on copy writing issue of the title of the movie.

The court said though the title of both the movies is quite similar yet audience can distinct difference between both the titles and termed the suit baseless. The movie is about to released on September 26th.

Tashan babe in anything less than her perfect shape

The cold weather of Ladakh did put a spanner in the works for Kareena Kapoor The actress works out daily to maintain her size zero. But the chilly weather has proved to be a block for Kareena’s daily personal regimen. The actress has been unable to pursue her yoga routine because of the severe chills.

A close friend of the actress revealed, "Kareena is very particular about her yoga routine. But she has been unable to do it because of the cold weather. The cold weather makes the body stiffer thus it becomes tough to perform the asanas."

Kareena was shooting in Ladakh with Aamir Khan for Raju Hirani’s Idiots.But now that the unit has moved to the more pleasant locales of Shimla, Bebo is back to her body basics. And we are glad too... We dont want to see the Tashan babe in anything less than her perfect shape.

I have been able to show the audience my potential-Tanushree Dutta

Bong bombshell Tanushree Dutta has turned over a new leaf. And for a change, this time its her de-glam look which is being talked about. It has not only given her an edge, but has also brought forth her immense acting talent.

On asking her, she replied with great enthusiasm, “Even though my look in ‘Saas, Bahu aur Sensex’ was completely different from any of my earlier movies, it has been a blessing as I have been able to show the audience my potential.

As a role, it was one of the toughest that I have done so far, but it definitely brought out a good performance from me. It’s quite thrilling to be get such great reviews for my work, especially from the industry stalwarts.

I thank everyone who has shown the confidence in me and I pray that I get this support forever.” Must say, wise word, from a wise girl!

Shreya is reportedly stumped over the whisper campaign

Shreya Saran of "Shivaji: The Boss" fame is in trouble over her Hollywood assignments. The Tamil Film Producers Council (TFPC) plans to take action against the actress for ignoring actor Dhanush starrer project for her foreign assignments.

Shreya took an advance from producer Murugesan to star opposite Dhanush, son-in-law of Rajnikant. She was supposed to start working on the film after finishing a shooting schedule for Gemini Films with the same actor, sources from the Tamil Film Producers Council (TFPC) said.

"The action is being taken after Murugesan’s complaint, endorsed by his director Vetrimaran. Its terms have been communicated to Shreya," the source added.

Shreya has denied the charges.

According to sources close to Shreya, she deposited the undisclosed fee for the untitled Murugesan film with the South Indian Artistes Association (SIAA) pointing out she is busy with Hollywood commitments - "The Other End Of The Line" produced by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) and the post-production schedule of "What’s Cooking Stella?" being directed by Canada-based director Deepa Mehta and her brother Dilip.

Shreya is reportedly stumped over the whisper campaign against her in the south Indian film industry.

Shreya hit the bull’s eye when she was cast opposite Tamil superstar Rajnikant in "Sivaji, The Boss" (2006). The film directed by Shankar broke all box office records.

Shreya’s current Indian assignments include "Kandaswamy", K.S. Ravi Kumar’s "Jaggubhai" and "Marmayogi" opposite Vikram and it also stars actor-turned-politician Sarath Kumar and thespian Kamal Haasan.

"All her major Tamil projects will get into trouble if TFPC takes action against her," an industry source added.

Shreya has 37 films under her belt. Of those 31 are in south Indian languages.

She has also tried her luck in Hindi films with "Thoda Thum Badlo Thoda Hum", "Aawarapan," "Mission Istaanbul" and "Ek, The Power of One". But all the films flopped.

Will Smith is also a great admirer of Aishwarya Rai Bachchan

No other Bollywood actress is as well known abroad as Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. Aishwarya has already done quite a few Hollywood projects like ‘Mistress of Spices’, ‘The Last Legion’ and yet to be released ‘Pink Panther’. Now the actress will possibly again sign an international project with Will Smith in the lead role. Aishwarya said, “There is the possibility of a movie with Will Smith and I am very excited about it because the script is fabulous and no doubt, he is a great actor and is a funny companion to work with.”

Ash is also overwhelmed with the attention she is getting in Hollywood. She said, “I consider myself very fortunate to have enjoyed a fantastic support from a widespread section of audience… I am very thankful for that kind of love and support because it has given me the confidence and strength of enjoying myself and explore different genres, be it art, commercial or historical, I have done it all.”

Where Ash calls herself lucky to have been offered this project, Will Smith is also a great admirer of Ash. The comedy genius also expressed his desire to work in Bollywood.

Arjun Rampal, Twinkle Khanna and Sonu Nigam were spent their time with 500 cancer patients

Arjun Rampal, Twinkle Khanna and Sonu Nigam were on the tour of King George Hospital on National Cancer Rose Day. At the hospital they spent their time with 500 cancer patients and their families, played games and did lots of other fun activities. It was really a memorable day for the patients at the hospital.