Eesha Koppikhar is throwing herself into martial arts in the hope

Eesha Koppikhar is throwing herself into martial arts in the hope that she lands an action movie - but for now she’s keeping it simple.

The actress is currently on track to be seen in Ek Vivaah, where she stars opposite Sonu Sood. Famous for doing some sizzling item numbers, including Khallas and Ishq Samundar, Eesha will play a demure village girl in the movie, made by the family saga director Suraj Barjatya.

The film releases next Friday.

"Ek Vivaah has given me a chance to explore my personality as an actress," Eesha said, "I was looking for a role of an Indian girl, who is loving, a perfectionist, believes in commitment and has strong values. This film offered me that and it is a complete family movie," she said.

"I wear very simple and ethnic clothes in the film. I don’t wear too much make-up and the entire look is very serene. I liked doing it," she said.

For now, however, Eesha is busy with the promotion of "Ek Vivaah..." in which she plays a small town girl Chandni, who dons the mantle of being the bread-winner of her family from being a naive bride-to-be after the death of her father.

But she’s probably had enough of that already. The glam doll is learning taekwondo and says she is a red belt in it, having worked at it for many years.

"I love action and I really want to do an action film. Maybe something like ’Mr. & Mrs. Smith’, ’Charlie’s Angels’ or a ’Million Dollar Baby’," Eesha said.

"Taekwondo requires your entire body to work at the same time and it helps the mind also. I feel while practising taekwondo, one becomes more focussed," Eesha said.

Having spent eight years doing item numbers and character roles, the actress is now "happy to have moved on from friendly and special appearances to better and full-fledged roles". After "Ek Vivaah...", Eesha will be seen in "Har Pall", "Hello Darling" and a lead role in Ram Gopal Varma’s "Shabri".

Mithun Chakraborty laughter became uncontrolled his heart beat got affected

We all know that Mithun Chakraborty played the role of a laughing don in DON MUTHUSWAMY but it will be amusing to know that he had a bad laughing experience during the shooting of Samir Karnik’s HEROES!

As per Mithun Chakraborty himself, during the Uttarakhand shooting schedule of HEROES, Sohail Khan and Vatsal Seth went berserk while relating some hilarious jokes to him. Infact, Mithun’s laughter became uncontrolled, so much so that his heart beat got affected and he had to be taken to a hospital! After that Mithun told Sohail and Vatsal (jokingly) that from next time onwards they must make him cry rather than laugh!

Well, we are quite sure that after seeing the good to decent opening of HEROES (that released last Friday), that too during the normally dull pre-’Diwali’ phase, Mithun da must be smiling, if not laughing!

King Khan was missing in action this Diwali

For all those who felt bad about the fact that King Khan was missing in action this Diwali, there’s some good news.

There will be much of SRK in the latter part of 2009. The word is that Yash Raj Films have signed up their favourite SRK again.

No, this one isn’t a comeback vehicle for old-timer Yash Chopra but a film with Ashutosh Gowarikar’s assistant Rakesh Kapoor (the Yash Raj banner is promoting another new talent!)

Rakesh has reportedly said, "I cannot say anything. I just want to thank Adi (Aditya Chopra) as he called me up last week and selected my script and me as director. I am really excited as this will be the biggest film to come out in 2009, touchwood.

Shah Rukh is fixed and my friends Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy are doing the music. We are starting from March after Shah Rukh comes back from the US. Adi has said that they will release this film on 2009 Diwali."

SRK’s ’My Name Is Khan’ directed by Karan Johar is also releasing around Christmas 2009 and if this film happens it will be a double bonanza for SRK fans! His home production ’Billoo Barber’ releases early next year as well.

So it’s King Khan all the way in 2009!

Kangna shocked the industry when she made the bold declaration

Very recently, Kangna shocked the industry when she made the bold declaration that ’she never felt like being a part of a hardcore Bollywood commercial film because she had no respect for such cinema’! We caught up with Kangna on the eve of the release of Fashion for a candid conversation.

As the clock has started ticking for the arrival of the film at theaters across the globe, a pertinent question which one can’t help but ask is - ’Who amongst the three actresses in Fashion would walk away with the honors. Over to Kangna:

Priyanka has been hailed as the central protagonist in the film. Where do you and Mugdha fit in?
(Smiles) Should I really be commenting on it at this moment when the film is ready to be seen by on and all? You should watch the film and you’ll get to know.

But with most of the promos centered on Priyanka, didn’t you feel left out?
I didn’t. Because the central character of the film is Priyanka. Even the publicity stills and promos are giving the right impression of the film. People should not get the wrong notion about the movie that the promos were focused on one person and the story is about someone else.

Madhur’s realistic cinema has always raised eyebrows. Do you want to elaborate on Fashion is it again comes with similar traits?
Raised eyebrows? I don’t know in which way? But he has always been appreciated for the films that he has made. He has also won National Awards. I am sure that this film has a possibility of winning him one more award and I think its going to be a very high impact film rather than a controversial one.

You have been a model yourself. That must have helped your performance in Fashion, right?
(Scowls) Puhleeze, let me clarify this once again...and on the records. I was never a model! It is a misconception that some people have been carrying with themselves.

After being in the industry for around 3 years, do you feel wiser when it comes to making career decisions?
Today when I have to make a decision, I do feel much more confident and much stronger. I was just discussing with my friend the other day about how people change and how we grow up from inside.

I was 18 yrs when I started, I am 21 today, tomorrow when I become 45 years and when I look back I won’t be the same Kangna. At 18- I was different, at 21- I was different and at 45 also I will change. I do feel much wiser while talking decisions today. I feel stable today.

Once upon a time, Kangna was a simple girl from Manali with big dreams. Has the world of glamour allowed that simplicity to remain?
I think I was much more glamorous before I entered films. I was very funny as a person and I used to think of myself as a huge superstar compared to what I think of myself today. Like when I was in school I used to compare myself to American actors and Miss World and Miss Universe. But today after being in this world I don’t feel glamorous anymore.

Seriously?
Yup, seriously. In fact I have become boring. I don’t want to think about acting all the time. I have completely changed as a person, I am not exciting anymore and my life is not exciting anymore. I think, before I came into this glamorous world I was much more fun and funny and exciting as a person.

What happens from here?
Roshan should be releasing any time. Then there is Raaz 2 that is confirmed for January 2009. Kites is another film and I am also doing an international project!

Priyanka Chopra also has some praises to heap on Aishwarya Rai

Bollywood gurus believe that Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is one of the most bankable stars in the Indian film industry.Film critic, Taran Adarsh confirms, “Aishwarya’s career graph has been very good though not excellent but she is the only actress who can attract national and international crowds. She is the face of so many international brands and a very good actress also.”

Jagmohan Mundhra who directed Ash in provoked said, “She is a superstar. Not only is she a recognised name worldwide; she is a totally bankable star. My personal experience with her from ‘Provoked’ says that the film wouldn’t have worked without her.”

“The best thing about her is that despite her stature, she is completely a director’s actor. She would also give her inputs in the character and would never come back to see a shot once the director approves it. She is thoroughly professional,” Mundhra added.

Priyanka Chopra also has some praises to heap on Ash, she says, “She is a gorgeous lady, a very elegant person and a great representative of India abroad and I think she has made some

Jodha Akbar’ shared the best film honours with an Iranian film

Ashutosh Gowariker’s magnum opus ‘Jodha Akbar’ has won the prestigious Grand Pix award at the Golden Minbar, the film festival for Muslim cinema held at Kazan in Russia recently.

Bollywood actor, Hrithik Roshan was adjudged the best actor award for his magnificent performance as Emperor Akbar. ‘Jodha Akbar’ shared the best film honours with an Iranian film ‘M for Mother’. The films were selected by the jury from the official section that consisted of 35 films- ten full-length feature, 12 short-length feature and 13 documentary films, in the competition.

Gowariker said he was overwhelmed by the honour and added that he was proud of Hrithik who won the best actor award. “His portrayal of Akbar is a magnificent one, full of nuances and detailing, which is rarely seen on screen,” he said.

Preity opted for Salwar-kameez as short jersey would not go down well

Priety Zinta has created customized salwar-kurtas bearing the Kings 11 logo for her women supporters for the IPL test matches that are expected to begin soon. A source close to the actress informed, “Priety discussed with her designer and created customized salwar kurtas bearing the Kings 11 (her team) logo for her supporters.”

“Priety has taken into consideration various aspects before creating the customized costumes for the women supporters. Since the IPL matches are to be held in Punjab, Preity opted for Salwar-kameez as short jersey would not go down well with traditional Punjabis.”

Preity however put rumors to rest that she was going to screen Heroes for her IPL team. “It definitely sounds like a good idea. But I would have to make sure that it is subtitled otherwise how would the Aussies (who are a part of her team) understand my Hindi film,” she laughed.

Vikram Phadnis whose dresses were exhibited by Priyanka Chopra and Shriya Saran

It was definitely an exciting moment for Vikram Phadnis whose dresses were exhibited by Priyanka Chopra and Shriya Saran at Lakme Fashion Week in Mumbai. Watch some of the pictures of Vikram Phadnis collection from the show.

Now Deepika has another reason too to be cheerful about

Deepika Padukone is on a joy ride these days. She has a successful ‘Bachna Ae Haseeno’ behind her, she has upcoming big one ‘Chandni Chowk To China’ with hit machine Kinng Kumar lined up and she also has Saif’s ambitious home production as well. On the personal front too she has a wonderful beau Ranbir Kapoor alongside which keeps the couple much in news.

Now Deepika has another reason too to be cheerful about. Sanjay Leela Bhansali has selected her for a leading role opposite Hrithik Roshan. The buzz is that Bhansali is trying to get the rest of the cast sorted by end of this month and expects to start shooting as soon as Hrithik completes his current movie, ‘Kites.’

Hrithik is presently holidaying in Bora Bora, close to Tahiti with his wife Suzanne Khan. He has been busy for the last two months shooting his home production Kites in USA.

Priyanka add the right glamour quotient to the cover with her dazzling smile

Inspite of giving a series of mega budgeted flops like ‘Love Story 2050’, ‘Chamku’ and ‘Drona’, Priyanka Chopra is very much rocking these days, especially when her eagerly anticipated ‘Fashion’ is about to hit the screens.

So, she was but the natural choice by the editor for the twelveth anniversary issue of ‘Cosmopolitan’. Priyanka add the right glamour quotient to the cover with her dazzling smile. Though clad in a simple green dress, she just looks worth a million dollars. What say pals?

Shahrukh is upset with Rani and even kicked her out

Shahrukh Khan and Rani Mukherjee looked adorable together in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai but you may never see them together in the future if the latest news is to be believed. The grapevine is abuzz with the news that Shahrukh is upset with Rani and even kicked her out of his Temptation Reloaded tour.

Rani has to pay a heavy price for commenting on the recent spat between Shahrukh and Salman. She said that she didn’t like the fight a bit and that she was disappointed. She even came for the grand finale of Salman’s game show 10 Ka Dum. This attitude of hers has not gone down too well with King Khan. Aggravating the relationship even more, Shahrukh has axed her from his Temptations Reloaded tour.

Interestingly, Salman’s girlfriend Katrina Kaif is said to be still part of the show. May be Shahrukh has sparred her for not making her feelings public about the spat!

Shilpa Shetty sizzle on Miami Beach would be over pretty soon

Hold your breath as the wait to see Shilpa Shetty sizzle on Miami Beach would be over pretty soon. The latest promo from DOSTANA would be hitting the music channels any moment and the effect it would have on the viewers can only be imagined.

This writer had an exclusive dekko at Shilpa’s item number ’Shut Up and Dance’ and it can be confidently said that Tarun Mansukhani, director of DOSTANA, has yet another hit number up his sleeve after ’Desi Girl’ and ’Jaane Kyon’. Shilpa Shetty is truly irresistible in her beach wear as she sets the temperatures soaring with her ’jhatka-matka’ in a manner that only she can. It seems that the gorgeous lady hadn’t gone anywhere since her ’Chura Ke Dil Mera’ days.

The perfect figure is there for display even as Abhishek Bachchan and John Abraham surround her at both ends while the eye candy effect is hardly to be missed. Composers Vishal and Shekhar can assure themselves that in their next ’Unforgettable’ outing, they have another dance number ready to be played on stage.

Vidya Balan days in Bollywood are still not numbered

Vidya Balan might look really odd with young heroes like Shahid Kapur but she continues to bag biggie films with a period feel or where the heroine is supposed to look Indian. And yeah, what she’s best suited to - matured heroes!

She’s starring with Sanjay Dutt and Salman Khan in Raj Kumar Santoshi’s ’Jis Lahore Nahin Dekhya Woh Jamiya Nahin.’

Thankfully she’ll be playing Sanjay Dutt’s wife in the film and isn’t the romantic interest of youngster Neil Nitin Mukesh who’s the third lead!

The movie will be shot in India because according to director Santoshi shooting in Lahore is impractical as the crew mightn’t get the architecture of the partition times any more.

So art designer, Nitish Roy is building Lahore in Hyderabad now. Every lane, by-line, the transportation; the electric wires will be recreated. Extensive research on Lahore during the Partition era is done so that every detail is replicated.

Santoshi calls it a challenge as it is his second pre-Independence film after ’The Legend of Bhagat Singh where he’ll combine drama and fiction into history.

With films like this one and ’Chenab Gandhi’, Vidya’s days in Bollywood are still not numbered!

Kareena Kapoor is a sheer professional actress

Kareena Kapoor is a sheer professional actress when it comes to work. The size zero lady shot for a song in Rohit Shetty’s ‘Golmaal Returns’ despite high fever.

The song, cheekily called ‘Meow’ (and currently on air), features her in a complete catty look! Kareena had 104 temperature but regardless of this fact the sultry siren shot for the song choreographed by Bosco-Ceasar in Mehboob Studios recently.

We hope that the film does wonders for her after this much of hard work specially.

Shahrukh proves wrong and he leads a healthy life

Shahrukh Khan is doing many things at one time. Apart from films and endorsements, he is taking many new works in hand. He is endorsing products like never before, we had also seen him shedding sweat for Kolkata IPL, traveled from one point to another to cheer up his team, recently, he turned property dealer and sold complexes in Dubai. If one leads such a hectic schedule and takes up so much stress and stain, health will obviously show some problem and famous numerologist Sanjay B Jumaani also predicted the same.

After a through study of all the stars and galaxies of Shahrukh, he has predicted a tough time ahead of Shahrukh. According to Sanjay, “Shah Rukh is entering his 44th year and the addition of 4 + 4 amounts to number 8, which represents Saturn or Shani that can cause illness over anxiety, stress, blood pressure and diabetes.”

He is the same numerologist who has forecasted Amitabh’s illness two days prior to his birthday. He had predicted Big B’s hospitalization owing to stomach trouble. And as we have all seen his prediction went true.

Jumaani is hoping that this time his prediction regarding Shahrukh proves wrong and he leads a healthy life. “Again I am hoping I am wrong. I was, of course, very moved by Mr Bachchan’s plight and conveyed my concern to his family,” says Jumani.

The tastes of cinegoers have undergone such a change that a small budget movie

The tastes of cinegoers have undergone such a change that a small budget movie that’s finely directed can easily beat some mammoth productions with sloppy direction at the box-office.

Much-hyped big releases with superstars have failed to impress cinegoers this year but small-budget films made by newer and lesser-known filmmakers have managed to draw in the crowds and also rake in big money at the marquee.

While futuristic films like Abhishek Bachchan’s Drona and Love Story 2050 , pegged at Rs 40-50 crore, opened to lukewarm response and were later rejected by cinegoers, dark horses like Rock On , Aamir , Welcome To Sajjanpur and A Wednesday , made with budget of around Rs 6-7 crores, managed to pull audiences for three-four weeks.

According to industry estimates, big banner films such as "Drona", U Me Aur Hum sank without a trace at the box office. Kidnap totalled collection of Rs 23.2 crore after two weeks while "Drona" earned only around Rs 11 crore.

Whereas surprise films like "A Wednesday" and "Welcome to Sajjanpur" collected around Rs 11 crore from ticket sales. Adding to the list is Farhan Akhtar’s "Rock On", which garnered more than Rs 26 crore.

"You can’t fool the audience with special effect technology, promos and big stars now. Big budget has nothing to do with success. A big film minus a good script cannot work. It all depends on the content of the film whether it will work or not," says film analyst Taran Adarsh.

‘My Name Is Khan’ is not a biopic of SRK

In Karan Johar’s next film My Name Is Khan , Shahrukh Khan will play a character who suffers from an Autistic disorder.

Despite what the movie’s title suggests, ‘My Name Is Khan’ is not a biopic of SRK. But it’s a movie based on a man who suffers from Asperger’s Syndrome.

Scriptwriter Shibani Bhatija, who has to her credit films like Fanaa and Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna , has penned script for this movie. Both Karan Johar and Shibani have worked diligently to come up with an evocative script which depicts the condition of Asperger’s patients who are fighting hard to be a part of the society.

While writing the script Shibani reportedly conducted thorough research and also interviewed many people under the influence of this physical disorder.

Asperger’s Syndrome is characterized by physical clumsiness and lack of proper communication skills in people who suffer from it.

According to sources, Karan Johar wants to convey a social message through his film which will be a sort of eye-opener for many, just like Aamir Khan enlightened many people about dyslexia through his lovely film Taare Zameen Par .

What’s even more interesting is that ‘My Name Is Khan’ brings back the jodi of SRK and Kajol to the silver screen again.

Harman will bounce back in a big way after IT'S MY LIFE

Anees Bazmee was recently stationed in Delhi shooting for his Harman Baweja-Genelia D’Souza-Nana Patekar starrer IT’S MY LIFE.

While he goes through the grind of getting his next film in place, his SINGH IS KINNG has already crossed 75 crores at the box office just from India. While this has made Bazmee one of the most sought after film makers in Bollywood, he acknowledges the fact that his actors have never failed to delivered whenever they have faced the camera for his films.

"Look at Akshay, he now has two of his biggest ever successes with me", says an elated Bazmee who is making a name for himself by working with the best in the business, "Even though WELCOME and SINGH IS KINNG had him play two completely contrasting characters, he did it with full conviction. I truly believe these have been his best performances."

Talking about the other actors who have got quite some accolades working in his films, Bazmee reminds, "Nana (Patekar) was a riot in WELCOME and after a long time he came in a film where ha had a principal role to play.

Now he is working with me in IT’S MY LIFE where he is again an important character. Anil (Kapoor) had come up with his two of his best performances with me - NO ENTRY and WELCOME.

Ajay’s psycho act in DEEWANAPAN is still noticed while Salman Khan made a huge impression even though he had a relatively small part to play in NO ENTRY."

How about Fardeen Khan with whom he had worked in NO ENTRY?

"Till date quite a few people from both within and outside the industry acknowledge that Fardeen’s best act ever has been in NO ENTRY. Even Feroz (Khan) bhai was so emotionally charged about Fardeen’s performance that he hugged me for that", informs Bazmee.

Does he promise the same for Harman as well who hasn’t quite enjoyed a great start for him after LOVE STORY 2050?

"I am quite confident that Harman will bounce back in a big way after IT’S MY LIFE", says Bazmee, "He is a good actor and all the trappings of a star. He may have had not so encouraging beginning at the box office but this film will do a lot for him. As I have said, all stars work best with me and Harman would be no exception."

I strongly believe in the institution of marriage-Eesha Kopikar

In spite of playing a plain Jane in couple of her films glamour girl Eesha still holds a place for herself in the list of glamorous heroines. But very soon she will be getting rid of this tag coz recently she has accepted the role of Chandni in Rajshri films Ek Vivah Aisa Bhi.This role will help her get rid of her glamorous image.

Q-The title of the film is Ek Vivah Aisa Bhi, What does that mean?
A-The story of this film Ek Vivah Aisa Bhi is about such a marriage which is very different from the regular customs of marriage, very sacred.

As its easy to get into relationships but very difficult to maintain them in the long run, but when two people without getting married are so committed to each other that they try their best to maintain the pureness of the relationship that in true sense is a sacred relationship.

Q- How would you define your character in this film?
A-The character of Chandni is very similar to me in real life. Just like me she comes from a family who value their customs and systems a lot. Just like me she believes in love.

Along with this just like me she also believes in the fact that before getting into a relationship with anyone we need to think twice. One should never think of breaking a relationship just to get into another one. Just like me Chandni is very attached to her dad.

The only difference we have is that Chandni comes from a small town where as I’m a city girl a simple heart but with the nature of a tom boy.Chandni is shown as a very soft spoken girl not as loud as I am.

Q-How did you prepare yourself for this role?
A-I dint have to do much as the director of the film Kaushik Dada kept reminding me that Chandni has a style which is different than Esha’s.

Q-It’s a dream of every girl to work with Rajshri Productions, how did you feel when you got a call from their end?
A-I felt great when my manager told me that they had called me. I heard the story last year on my birthday 19th Sept, So I felt that this film s a gift from God on my birthday. Its like a dream come true to work with such a great banner.

Q-You have never actually played such a character before, was there any kind of fear while accepting this role?
A-Have you ever seen me act in similar kind of roles ever? I myself make it a point to try out different roles every time and the two prime reasons for it are, first that I easily get bored of the same stuff again and again and second that I know for sure that im a very talented actress and I can do a lot better., its only that not many directors have got to utilize my talent properly.

Q-What do you think about your co star Sonu Sood?
A-He is a very well grounded person. Just like the actor of the film he also comes from a small village named Moga.he is as hardworking as I am. Eight years ago we worked together in a south film named Nijin Ille at that time we had never thought that we would be working together again in Rajshri films

Q-How was the whole experience of working in this film?
A-I’ve never had such a great experience in my entire career till date. Not once did I feel the need to complaint about anything.

All through the shoot I always felt that Raj babu is like myg randfather, Sooraj Barjatya like my father and Kaushik dada like my elder brother must be the first film of my life where I just dint want the shooting to end. One hundred and twenty days for the shoot just flew away.

I still remember the last day of our film which was 6th of June. I had cried a lot that day and surprisingly it was raining heavily that day, which made me feel that as if the rains were crying with me.

Q-Do you regret the fact that Sooraj Barjatya isn ot directing this film?
A-Before the narration I had some doubts about the same but after the narration when I saw my directors vision I was convinced that the film would be superb. The time when Kaushikwas narrating the film I could actually picturise every seen in front of my eyes and tears were rolling down them.

Q-A twelve year long wait for your beloved is what is shown in this film, do you think this funda works these days?
A- I in my personal life waited for ten years to keep my relationship going, but I guess destiny had something else in store for me. If the love and the feelings are true and genuine then why only twelve years you could spend your whole life waiting for that person.

Q-What are your views about marriage?
A-I strongly believe in the institution of marriage. Its a beautiful feeling, here two different people with different thought process, different outlook and different cultures meet and bind into one relationship.

Q- When do you plan to get married?
A-Its just been six months since I’ve met Timmy, but he too keeps asking me the same question always. But honestly speaking after a real long time my career graph has shown a rise so I would want to concentrate on that first. I will definitely get married as I don’t want to continue working for my whole life. Like every girl I too dream of getting married and having kids.

Q-Your seen in films like Ek Vivah Aisa bhi and Shabri and at the same time in films like Haseena, Hello Darling and Rite Ya Wrong what is the kind of image you actually want to have?
A-First of all you cannot compare Haseena with Hello Darling and Rite Ya wrong, Haseena is the biggest mistake of my life and I do not want to discuss about that film at all. Hello darling is a comedy flick while Rite ya Wrong is a suspense thriller. As far as my image is concerned ive already said that I want to be versatile.

Q- Most of the time s you are seen in multistarrerfilms, why haven’t you tried doing solo films?
A-Coz no one casted me in a solo film. I haven’t intentionally signed mutistarrer films it just happened coincidently. As it is I do not have a filmy background nor am I seeing any of the top directors, whatever I have achieved till date is all by my own hard work.

Q-So do you feel any kind of pressure?
A-I love to give pressure than to feel it.

Q-Are you happy with your career graph?
A-Its all in the mind, some people are not happy in spite of winning an Oscar while some are happy without it. What makes you feel that im unhappy, im very happy?

Q- Tell us about your new release?
My forthcoming films are Shabri, hello Darling, Rite ya Wrong, Har Pal and Gehra -Rajnee Gupta

Bollywood actresses including Deepika Padukone have attended the show

Wills Lifestyle Fashion Week is under progress at Pragati Maidan exhibition complex in New Delhi has special attraction as celebrities from the Bollywood is joining and walking on the ramp in the fashion week. Many Bollywood actresses including Deepika Padukone have attended the show. Watch some other celebrities from the Bollywood walking on the ramp.

Shilpa Shetty is reportedly set to play the role of an Odissi dancer

Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty is reportedly set to play the role of an Odissi dancer.

The movie, still in planning stages, is said to be based on the life of the late danseuse Protima Bedi.

Wife of actor Kabir Bedi , Protima was a model and an Odissi danseuse who died prematurely at the age of 40. She lived life on her own terms.

According to the buzz, the movie will be directed by Malayalam director Sarath Kumar. It will be in English language and shot in Kerala, Bangalore and Protima’s dance academy Nrityagram near Bangalore. A few portions would also be shot in Kuala Lumpur.

Shilpa has reportedly been chosen for the role because of her facial resemblance to Protima. The actress will have to learn the fine points of Odissi before facing the camera.

The shooting is likely to begin by the end of this year.

Abhishek-Aishwarya Rai Bachchan will be coming on stage to address the crowds

It’s got to be the biggest rock concert ever. On the initiative of three like-minded people --Farhan Akhtar, Arjun Rampal and Ritesh Sidhwani --12 rock bands are getting together on 31 October for the Rock On For Humanity concert at the MMRDA Ground at Bandra-Kurla to raise funds for a pediatric medical camp in Bihar.

Farhan who spearheaded this charitable concern asks, "Why a rock concert? Why not the usual film-related naach-gana that is far easier to organize as a fund-raiser.

We at Rock On For Humanity felt the idea of raising money for medical assistance must connect with the young urban youth. Though this concert has nothing to do with my film Rock On somehow the idea of a rock concert does have a bearing on the way the young responded to the film."

At the core of this sprawling charity concert will be 12 rock bands from all over the country.

"And that would include Parikrama with whom Saif Ali Khan plays guitar.And yes Saif will be playing the guitar with Parikrama that evening.

I’ll be performing with Shankar-Ehsaan Loy. In addition Hrithik Roshan, Shah Rukh Khan and Abhishek-Aishwarya Rai Bachchan will be coming on stage to address the crowds.

We hope to raise a sizeable amount of money that evening because it’s a one-off endeavour. We hope to raise enough money to a pediatric camp in Bihar."

Zayed Khan was drunk and suddenly started arguing with two youngsters

Actor Zayed Khan is hitting really , but not at the box-office. Devil is surely working on Zayed Khan’s empty mind, prompting him to indulge in drunken brawls and fights. The actor recently bashed up two youngsters at a nightclub, on the pretext that they were misbehaving with his cousin.Zayed Khan, along with Farah Khan-Ali, Fardeen and Hrithik were present at a reopening of the nightclub ‘Poison’ in Mumbai. The hot-blooded actor indulged in a fight with two youngsters. Zayed was reportedly upset that the boys misbehaved with his cousin Natasha, wife of Fardeen Khan.

According to a source, “Zayed was drunk and suddenly started arguing with two youngsters in their late 20s - Sahan and Yasir, and pushed them for no reason, and then they were beaten up very badly. After the fisticuffs, Yasir, reportedly, started bleeding profusely and had to get several stitches.” Now is that a Dadagiri ?

Aamir Khan experienced an ant attack in his own bed

Recently the actor - director Aamir Khan experienced an ant attack in his own bed! Surprised? Well the perfectionist actor back on his blog after a long hiatus has shared his real life nightmarish experience to his fans.

Aamir says, “Few days ago I had a very bad night. After a long day at work, went to bed at around 3am. Couple hours later, deep in sleep I had this vague feeling of being bitten on my ear.

Gradually I was being bitten on my stomach, legs, neck. I was so sleepy that I just kept cursing, scratching, turning and tossing. Finally it got really unbearable, and I kind of woke up…… TO SEE MY BED FILLED WITH ANTS!

There were hundreds of them! Crawling all over and giving me hell. I’m feeling scratchy all over just recounting it. Had to jump under the shower and then went and crashed on my couch. Can’t figure out for the life of me how they got there and why?

I guess they found something really sweet on that bed, and since K (wife Kiran) was out on a night shoot I am assuming it was me. Isn’t it amazing how ants find their way to the most unlikely of places.”

We are waiting with baited breath to see Kareena in her catty avatar

Kareena Kapoor is a die-hard fan of the American singer Beyonce and inspired by her , she slips into a catsuit for her item number ‘Meow’ in Rohit Shetty’s ‘Golmaal Returns’.

“I love Beyonce and the way she is. I have tried a different hairstyle and make-up, too. It’s a funky track and the video looks very glamourous,” said Kareena.

Even choreographer Bosco cant stop praising Kareena and feels that she has done it even better than Beyonce. “Bebo looks hotter than Beyonce,” said Bosco.

Not to mention, boyfriend Saif Ali Khan went gaga over the song. The Chhote Nawab landed on the sets unannounced to see Kareena perform the song. “He liked it so much that he wished he was part of the number too,” said a friend of the actress.

We are waiting with baited breath to see Kareena in her catty avatar!!

Saif Ali Khan recently paid a visit to Kareena’s new home in Khar

Saif Ali Khan recently paid a visit to Kareena’s new home in Khar. The actress who will shortly move into her new plush apartment has been tied up in filming and hasn’t been able to check on the progress being made and so her beau decided to come have a look. Interestingly he was accompanied by Kareena’s mum Babita.

“Earlier this week we saw Saif get out of his car and walk into the building. We thought Kareena would follow soon. But she didn’t come with him. Instead it was Babita who was with Saif. She took him to see Kareena’s and her own home. She has bought a flat right opposite Kareena’s on the same floor,” says an onlooker.

But the visit wasn’t a long one as compared to Khan’s previous visits which have been with his lady love by his side.

“They had just dropped in. Both were very casually dressed. They spent about 30 minutes in the house checking in how far the home had reached,” says the source.

“We can see workers in the house day and night. She has got a few modifications in her flat as compared to the rest of the people in the flat. In fact we saw some CCTV cameras also being put in,” says the source.

The work in Kareena’s flat is progressing quickly. A couple of other flat owners have moved in but interiors are still being done in the three celeb flats belonging to Karisma Kapoor, China Garden owner Nelson Wong and Kareena’s.

The Kapoor move is expected to take place towards the end of the year.

My sincerest thanks to all who gave me strength to fight another medical battle-Amitabh Bachchan

Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan, who was discharged Friday from the Lilavati Hospital, is back to his blogging ways. The actor has thanked his fans for their good wishes but has hit out at the media for being "insensitive" while reporting on his illness.

"My sincerest thanks to all who gave me strength to fight another medical battle. The fans and well wishers. The media friends who wrote in on my mobile. Friends who visited me at the hospital and those that wrote in. Strangers who I never met or know," Amitabh wrote on his blog soon after his discharge, "Your love overwhelms me. Your concern for my well being humbles me. I owe so much to you.”

But while the actor thanked one lot of the public, he also slammed the media on the other hand. He expressed his displeasure at being chased when he was taken to hospital in an ambulance.

"There is a muted silence outside…No one says a word, except the media. They clamour and scream for that exclusive shot, invading the sanctity of the ambulance. They would never understand the sensitivity of the situation," he wrote.

"Media is an added hindrance to a smooth, quick emergent ride to Nanavati. If they had their way they would ideally want to be seated on the stretcher with me and have me answering questions - ’What would be the celebrations for the birthday sir and will you be inviting Shah Rukh’. Insensitive. Callous,” he expressed his feelings.

Diagnosed with incisional hernia, the Big B had been in hospital for a week. He went back home in his own car and was accompanied by son Abhishek and daughter-in-law Aishwarya Rai.

The star said he had plans of "rest and recuperation" at his Jalsa home apart from giving company to the women in his house for a quick glance of the moon from the roof to break their fast on "Karva Chauth", which he termed a "torturous practice".

Deepika Padukone presented Fiama Di Wills collection by designer duo Shantanu

One speciality about Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week is Indian celebrities walking the ramp. Last year, you saw lots of Bollywood babes walking the ramp in hot and stylish attires and this year is no exception. Model turned actress Deepika Padukone, Sameera Reddy, Riya Sen and Minissha Lamba stole the show on day 2 and many more celebrities are in the queue.

Deepika Padukone presented Fiama Di Wills collection by designer duo Shantanu-Nikhil at the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week 2008 (WIFW) in New Delhi yesterday. Actress Sameera Reddy walked the ramp for designers Falguni and Shane Peacock’s Spring/Summer 2009 collection. Actress Minissha Lamba, who is known for her roles in Bachna Ae Haseeno and Kidnap, also walked the ramp for designers Falguni and Shane Peacock.

Hot and sensual actress Riya Sen was another star attraction at this year’s Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week. She walked down the ramp wearing a heavily embelished skirt and necklace for designer Ranna Gill.

Other Indian babes to walk the ramp at the Fashion Week are Shilpa Shetty, Boxer Vijender Singh, Shahid Kapoor, Shweta Salve, Chitrangada Singh and Raima Sen.

Amrita Rao again appears in classic, stylish and chic look for ‘Miss Players’

On the advertisement front, Amrita Rao was last seen in ‘Kwality Walls Cornetto’ along with the members of the Pakistani band, Jal. In that commercial she played the sweet teenager who enjoys her ‘Cornetto’ with her special someone. Now, she again appears in classic, stylish and chic look for ‘Miss Players’- a trendy, fashion brand whose range spans across trendy tops, funky denims, smart trousers and stylish dresses along with a whole range of cool fashion accessories which has been designed keeping in mind the tastes of the female youth of the country.

The commercials showcase a completely different and much more glamorous looking Amrita. The tagline of ‘Miss Players’ is ‘Play it Cool’ and no doubt, Amrita Rao looks cool and playful in the prints of the ad.

The ‘Miss Players’ Spring Summer 08 collection is available at the 6 ‘Miss Players’ exclusive stores and also at 47 ‘John Players’ stores in key cities across the country. The range comprising of casual wear, party wear and work wear is attractively priced in the range of Rs.300 to Rs.1000.

Extraordinary diamond studded shoe was offered to gorgeous Tanushree Dutta

Now, the delicate glass shoes of Cinderella finally turn into reality for Gitanjali group has made a diamond studded Cinderella show to be displayed at the Lakme Fashion Week. The opportunity to unveil this Extraordinary diamond studded shoe was offered to gorgeous Tanushree Dutta. And no doubt, Tanushree all clad in a golden gown just added to the grace of this breathtakingly beautiful diamond studded shoe which has a unique feature of floating diamonds.

Gitanjali Gems is known for creating cricket ball, tennis ball a chic and opulent chandelier, a truly beautiful (collectable) football, an elegant gold stand, a super-stylish key chain! paper knives’s set! prayer beads set, a breathtakingly beautiful chess set all made out of diamonds.

Shweta also acknowledges that being the daughter of a reputed filmmaker

Newcomer Shweta Kumar was made to don a two-piece bikini for her very first scene in this Friday’s release Karzzzz .

The comely daughter of filmmaker Indra Kumar makes her Bollywood debut opposite Himesh Reshammiya in director Satish Kaushik’s ‘Karzzzz’, which, as we all know by now, is a modern remake of Subhash Ghai’s hit movie ‘Karz’, starring Rishi Kapoor , Simi Garewal and Tina Munim.

Shweta enacts the role played by Tina Munim in the original flick. She plays a vivacious, bubbly and naughty girl who is also innocent at the same time.

However, Shweta was a bundle of nerves when she was told that her first scene in ‘Karzzzz’ would be shot in a bikini.

“I was very nervous before the scene. But Satishji assured me and shot the scene in a very nice way. It has turned out well on the screen,” says the hazel eyed beauty.

Shweta also acknowledges that being the daughter of a reputed filmmaker did help her get her first break. In fact, she did not even have to give a screen test for ‘Karzzzz’. But Shweta believes that having got her first break, she would now have to prove her mettle all by her work.

“Otherwise, who would want to sign me?” she asks.

Shweta has already learnt a few ropes of her profession. She has done an acting course from Kishore Namit Kapoor’s school; she has learnt classical dance from Saroj Khan and modern dance forms from Shiamak Davar and Shabina Khan.

We’ll see how well she acts when ‘Karzzzz’ hits the theatres.

Neeta Lulla worked 48hrs for dreamgirl Hema Malini's look

Internationally acclaimed fashion designer Neeta Lulla worked 48hrs for dreamgirl Hema Malini’s look for the forthcoming venture EK THI RANI AISI BHI!

It seems that the designer was very excited when Hema mentioned about her latest venture. The actress explained the role of Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia in this biopic directed by Gulbahar Singh. Neeta is known for giving Aishwariya Rai the stunning look of Jodhabai in Ashutosh Gwarikar’s JODHAA AKBAR. She has proved her mettle as one of the finest costume designer in Hindi film industry.

’’Hemaji has always fascinated me as a personality,’’ says Neeta. The designer had to work 48hrs nonstop for the final look of Rajmata. ’’Actually we both had time constraints so I had to work round the clock to give Hemaji the look of the Rajmata. I did my own research and Hemaji also gave me a reference book which helped me a lot. I tried to give her a different look in BAGHBAAN and people loved her the way she looked in the film. Hope even this time people will like it,’’ she says.

Incidentally, it was Neeta Lulla who gave Hema Malini the stunning look in Ravi Chopra’s BAGHBAAN which is tagged as Hema’s comeback film.

The shooting of the film EK THI RANI AISI BHI will start from end of November. The film is produced by Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Smriti Trust.

Shilpa Shetty knows how to play her cards like a real ‘Baazigar’

Shilpa Shetty knows how to play her cards like a real ‘Baazigar’!

Currently she looks very much the diva in ‘Bigg Boss’ and the buzz is that she’s ‘utterly butterly delicious’ in ‘Dostana’ too.

Priyanka Chopra and not Shilpa is the heroine of the film produced by Karan Johar. But she’s looked so sexy in short numbers in her sole item number that Piggy Chops and even hot John pale in comparison.

She has said, “It’s going to be quite hot. I’ve worn some interesting clothes in the film, but not a bikini.”

Well, we do believe her since dance numbers have been her USP for long! This is one dame who knows how to grab all the attention, even by playing bit parts and not really doing anything substantial!

The musical burlesque ‘Yuvraaj’ few of the wallpapers

Yuvraaj- Subhash Ghai produced and directed movie has good cast on its screenplay including Salman Khan, Anil Kapoor, Mithun Chakraborty and Katrina Kaif. A R Rahman has composed music of the movie. The musical burlesque ‘Yuvraaj’ has Kabir Lal as cinematographer. Below are a few of the wallpapers from Yuvraaj.