Amitabh Bachchan deserves Bharat Ratna: Lata Mangeshkar deserves Bharat Ratna: Lata Mangeshkar

Bharat Ratna

Amitabh Bachchan felicitated Lata Mangeshkarby honouring her with the very first 'Hridayanth' award on the occasion of her 82nd birthday last night in Mumbai. 

Also present at the occasion were the Mangeshkars lead by Pandit Hridayanath Mangeshkar, renowned filmmaker Yash Chopra, ace Tennis player Leander Paes, Shiv Sena executive president Uddhav Thackeray and renowned singers like Sonu Nigam, Sadhana Sargam, Sunidhi Chauhan, Suresh Wadkar,Kavita Krishnamurthy & Bela Shende.

Inspite of being a legendary actor, Amitabh Bachchan chose not be fashionably late. He was right on time to honour the nightingale of India.

After presenting Lata didi the trophy, Lata Mangeshkar thanked the superstar.

"Yash Chopra considers me her sister and I consider Amitabh Bachchan as my brother. So I have my three brothers here tonight. As Hridaynath said earlier, I want to present this very 'Hridaynath' award to Amitabh next year on his birthday or mine. By then I am sure he will be given the Bharat Ratna. It will then become special as one Bharat Ratna will give away the award to other Bharat Ratna'. " 

Dimpy Mahajan suffers miscarriage

Dimpy Mahajan

Dimpy ganguly-mahajan, wife of Rahul Mahajan, has had a miscarriage. The model-turned-actor is recuperating in Mumbai, trying her best to come to terms with the loss. 

The miscarriage happened last Monday. Dimpy, who had kept the pregnancy news under wraps, was all set to come down to Kolkata end-September for the promotion of her Bengali film, "Hello Memshaheb". It's still not clear whether the plan is put on hold because of the sudden turn of events. Dimpy was in her first month of pregnancy.

I know I am sexy: Ameesha Patel

Ameesha Patel

Ameesha Patel, B-Town's latest actress-turned-producer, talks about love, betrayal by her family and bouncing back 

Being sexy... does it make you feel superior to others? 
I know I am sexy. But being sexy is all about attitude, not body type. It's a state of mind. To me, an intelligent girl with a positive attitude and a great smile is sexy... and she could well be wearing a salwar-kameez. In our profession, sometimes being overtly sexy can be a handicap. You don't really know if the men are just looking at you as a sex kitten or actually paying attention to you. But yes, I am glad I can carry off a sensuous avatar on screen. I work on my body to stay fit, but that does not make me superior to anyone. I am a forthright and hardworking girl.

Ameesha Patel

Ban Bollywood: Pakistan bigwigs

Veena Malik 

Several bigwigs in the Pakistani film industry have decided to take legal action to stop Indian films from being shown in the country. 

Actors Moammar Rana, Shaan, Sangeeta and Shahid, directors Syed Noor, Aslam Dar, Altaf Hussain, Masood Butt and Pervaiz Rana, and producers Jani Malik and Chaudhry Kamran, were among those who pledged to take action, claiming they were perturbed by the public's interest in Indian films and that Pakistani films hardly drew crowds. While they said a petition was being filed against exhibiting Indian films, the view was also expressed that Pakistani films released on Eid-ul-Fitr could have done better business had it not been for Indian films.

We face similar situations here 
I can understand where they are coming from. We were the first to release "Awarapan" there in 2006, a bold move by the Pakistani establishment during the Lal Masjid civil crisis. Since then, every Indian film finds takers there. But has it helped the Pakistani industry? No. The workforce is unemployed, the actors, singers, technicians, etc, still struggle to keep body and soul together. So, let's be fair. It's easy to question their decision, but do we remember that we have similar problems in Karnataka? You fight every time to get more screens for Hindi films there. In Maharasthra, the Shiv Sena and the MNS crusade for the Marathi film industry, saying they must get more screens because with their budgets, they don't have the capacity to elbow in this huge competitive market. But the establishment in Pakistan has supported our films, and now that they are facing internal opposition from the industry, we must understand that this is a tightrope - this fight to protect the indigenous product. Perhaps they can collect some sort of tax from foreign films, and use that for the Pakistani industry, instead of shutting doors completely on us. - Mahesh Bhatt 

Shah Rukh Khan can not dance: Kamaal R Khan

Kamaal R Khan

All set to up the TRPs of the forthcoming reality show Bigg Boss with his antics on Colors channel, actor-producer-director-writer Kamaal R Khan is in a bindaas mood! 

Known to make relentless scathing comments on various celebrities without batting his eyelids, KRK has now taken a big-time panga with none other than Shah Rukh Khan. 

Too much hype! 
Kamaal, who has been taking potshots through his tweets at SRK's item number Chammak Challo, rendered by Akon, says: "Just because it has been sung by Akon in Shah Rukh Khan's RA-One, doesn't make it a great song, despite all the hype created around it. But then, it's my personal view, although now I'm noticing quite a few people playing this song. Well, to each it's own! 

Oops, those steps! 
If the rising popularity of Chammak Challo redeems the song in KRK's eyes, he just can't get over Shah Rukh Khan's steps in the song. "Everybody knows that Shah Rukh Khan is a bad dancer, but in Chammak Challo, his steps are the worst till date! He looks so awkward and uncomfortable. I wonder, what made him do that at this age," says KRK with a hearty laugh. 

As sultry as it gets-Vidya in ‘The Dirty Picture

Vidya

New Delhi: Vidya Balan has never exposed as much - but in the first look of "The Dirty Picture", inspired by late southern sex icon Silk Smitha's life, she has painted a perfect picture in an itsy-bitsy red blouse matched with luscious red lipstick.

The actress stands undaunted even as three men - Naseeruddin Shah, Tusshar Kapoor and Emraan Hashmi - get too close for comfort in the poster, which was released on social networking sites on Friday.

"The poster and the logo of the film has a very 1980s feel to it because the movie is set in that period. We will be launching the first trailer of 'The Dirty Picture' in Mumbai August 30," Girish Johar, head of acquisition and distribution, Balaji Motion Pictures, informed.

The film is set to release Dec 2, the birth anniversary of Silk Smitha, who became a symbol of sensuality after featuring in bold and semi-nude roles. Later, financial crises and personal problems took a toll on her life.

It is this moving story that has been captured in this latest offering by Ekta Kapoor. In tune with the period that the movie is set in, the Balaji unit has chosen to launch the first trailer at Galaxy, a single screen theatre in Mumbai.

Vidya Balan Gets Hot And Sexy In ‘Dirty Picture

Hot Vidya

Latest Update News:-People had not yet got off from Vidya’s sexy image in ‘Ishqiya’ that the lithe beauty is once again all set to play a sex bomb Silk Smitha in Ekta Kapoor’s film titled ‘Dirty Picture’.
The flick is based on Silk Smitha’s real life story who died in 1996 and the death was suspected as a suicide. The lady was entrapped in many troubles like financial problems, disillusionment in love, alcohol dependency and depression. Silk Smitha who was born in Andhra Pradesh with the name as Vijayalakshmi fought with loneliness in last moments of her life.
Speaking about the film, the producer Ekta Kapoor said, “I’ve been waiting for almost two years for the script to be ready. Now my writer Rajat Arora has finally put the finishing touches to the story of a woman who defied all conventions to become a sensation in the South but eventually committed suicide. Let me tell you, this will be my most exhilarating and powerful production ever. It`s about women`s empowerment and the loneliness behind stardom.”

Katrina: Bollywood`s only belly dancer

Katrina

Katrina Kaif, the actress of the moment in Bollywood, is now the only belly dancer actress. The actress had gotten a tutor to prepare for a part in a film, and has learned very quickly to dance wonderfully. The film was a success, and surely all of Katrina’s fans loved her in “Sheila Ki Jawani”. After being amazed at the sight of her dancing performance, fans are wondering who taught Katrina to belly dance?

The answer is the expert in belly dancing moves Veronica D’Souza. She is the woman behind Katrina’s success in “Sheila Ki Jawani”. Veronica has trained most of the girls in Bllywood, and so Katrina went to her, because she wanted to be the only belly dancing actress in Bollywood. The one who made possible the meeting between the two was Farah Khan.

Speaking of Katrina, Veronica D’Souza could only compliment her, as the actress has proven dedication and passion in learning the moves. Veronica added that the actress also has the type of body 

Recession is not the reason behind relocation: Madhuri

madhuri dixit

Madhuri Dixit's decision to move - bag and baggage included - to India, has sparked off all kinds of rumours and speculations. 

The actress is shifting base from Denver, USA to Mumbai permanently, early next month along with her husband Dr Shriram Nene and their sons Ryan and Arin. Dr Nene, a US citizen and a cardiovascular surgeon has never lived in India before. So what gives?
In a telephonic chat, Madhuri clears the air. Read on...

Is recession behind this relocation? 
lNot at all. We have been fortunate enough not to be affected by it at all. Ram, is a doctor and he's in a profession that's always going to be much in demand. There have been so many unfortunate families who have been affected by recession and are going through hard times but we are fine. Truth is, Ram has always been fascinated by India and his heart always remained there whenever he's come to Mumbai. He wants to see the Howrah Bridge in Kolkata, Shimla in Himachal Pradesh, the Charminar in Hyderabad and the Ajmer Shariff dargah in Rajasthan as he's heard so much about them. 

Sameera Reddy wants to do item numbers

Sameera Reddy

I'm enjoying doing both Hindi and south films as the synergy between both industries gives you a pan-India identity. 

I've been doing films down south for the last two years and I've been lucky to have worked with the best producers, directors and actors. You have to give it to the southern industry. There's no beating them when it comes to stunts, cinematography, story-lines and professionalism. That probably explains why their films are major successes.

STUNT MANIA 
I'm shooting for Priyadarshan's Tezz. It is an action film in which I will do stunts and am riding a bike too! I've been longing to do an action-oriented role and I'm glad I got one. For this flick, Priyadarshan insisted that I learn how to ride a bike. Initially I was scared, but now I'm at ease with the mean machines. I'm planning to buy a customized bike soon.

WHAT AN ITEM! 
Item songs have become synonymous with BO success for B-town flicks today. Item numbers are no more looked down upon and have become an important element for successful films now. Peppy numbers like Munni Badnaam Hui, Sheila Ki Jawani or Jalebi Bai not only added to the glam quotient in the films, but also helped grab many eyeballs. I'm looking to do some interesting item songs if they come my way.

I have no interest in direction: Shahid Kapoor

Shahid Kapoor

Auditions, rejections...Shahid Kapoor rewinds to life 10 years back when he was just one among the thousands vying to find a place in Bollywood.
And an actor father was no bonus, says the 30-year-old, whose progression from a chocolate boy hero to a mature actor is subtly reflected in his latest release, " Mausam". "Ten years back, I was dreaming to being where I am today," Shahid told IANS in an interview as he sat back to recall his journey. His career as an actor started with him playing the cute lover boy in "Ishq Vishk" in 2003. "Mausam", which marks the directorial debut of his father, veteran actor Pankaj Kapoor, features Shahid as Harinder Singh - a young, fun-loving boy who grows up to be an aware, mature and confident individual. It's almost as if "Mausam" showcases Shahid's transition in Bollywood. "I'm glad this reflects! I remember when I sat down with dad, he said 'Beta, I want to show you not just in one shade, I want to show different aspects of you as an actor'.
So that was the effort with 'Mausam'," he said. Shahid admits he was confused initially, but knows what he wants now. "A decade back, I was running around trying to get myself any kind of a role, going to different places, and auditioning and being rejected. I was trying to make my body and just trying to get a break anyhow. Then 'Ishq Vishk' happened. "When I started off, I didn't really know anything. I just had a lot of love and passion for acting. I knew acting was what I loved the most in the world. But I got confused. The first four or five years of my career, I was very confused - I didn't know what was right, what was wrong. There was no one to guide, nobody to tell me. "Although my father is an actor, he wasn't the hero in films. Besides, he always told me that I need to make my own mistakes and learn from what I am doing. So I went through this whole phase of trying to understand what the right thing to do is," Shahid said, and heaved a sigh. And then? "Then one day, I came up with a very simple solution - do what you want to do, do what you love doing!

Approached for two Bollywood films: Paris Hilton

Paris Hilton 

International celebrity Paris Hilton claims to have received two Bollywood offers and says she is open to working in the Hindi film industry, provided she gets suitable scripts. 

"I have been approached to do two Bollywood films. But I am not keen on them. However, if a good script comes up, I am willing to do it. Bollywood films are beautiful, I love the clothes in them," said the blonde beauty who arrived here early Saturday morning.

Hilton will get a taste of Bollywood at a party organised by Indian socialite Queenie Dhody. Expected guests at the Saturday night party include Bollywood celebrities Sonakshi Sinha, Neil Nitin Mukesh, Abhay Deol, Arjun Rampal, Dino Morea and Imran Khan.

The socialite has come here to launch her line of bags, but there's a lot more on her mind during her short trip.

"I am right now here for business. I wanted to do much more but there's no time during this trip," said Hilton, who unveiled the collection at a media gathering here.

However, she does not want to miss taking back "good memories" along with "Indian saris, bindis and jewellery".

A yoga enthusiast, Hilton sported a sari for the cover shoot of an Indian fashion magazine recently, and says she adored the six-yard wonder.

"I am very inspired by Indian designers. I recently shot for the cover of Marie Claire India in a sari designed by Rocky S. He is an incredible designer. I am sure I am going to wear a sari back in the US as well," she said

Vidya Balan shoots song sequence for 'The Dirty Picture' despite high fever

Vidya Balan

Mumbai:  Vidya Balan loves getting into the skin of the character, but to essay Silk Smita in The Dirty Picture, she seems to be pushing her limits.

The actress, who was in Hyderabad recently for the shoot of an elaborate song sequence for the film, was down with flu. She, however, did not complain and continued shooting with co-actor Naseerudin Shah.

Says a source, "The song was being shot in a lotus pond and it was on a tight schedule. Filming had to be wrapped up within two to three days, as those were the only dates available. It required Vidya to stay in the pond for over four to five hours during the sequence."

Adds the source, "Vidya started feeling ill on the first day itself as she was in water for so long. She developed high fever.  Though director Milan Luthria asked his leading lady to take a breather, she was keen that the shoot continue."

If shooting was stalled, the per day losses would have been huge for the producers and it would have also affected the crew who had been specially flown from Mumbai. As a result Vidya did not want the filming to be affected.

Place your bets

During the Karnataka schedule, director Milan Luthria had challenged Vidya to address the gathered crowd dressed as Silk Smitha.

Unabashedly she walked up to the all-male onlookers and spoke to them like her character would.
Says a source, "Milan had a bet with Vidya that she would never be able to address the crowd without feeling awkward, but he lost the bet."

After the incident Milan thinks twice and warns the unit too, about placing bets with Balan

Vidya-Tusshar kiss in ‘Dirty Picture’ gets interrupted, thanks to dragonfly attack

Dirty Picture

Mumbai: Tusshar Kapoor and Vidya Balan couldn't film their passionate liplock, thanks to a dragonfly attack.
The cast and crew of Ekta Kapoor's The ‘Dirty Picture’ is back in Mumbai, but it seems they haven't finished all the portions to be filmed at Ramoji Rao Film City in Hyderabad.

One important scene that involves a passionate kiss between Vidya Balan and Tusshar Kapoor remains. It will now be shot in Mumbai later this month.

A crew member explains that the scene was to be shot on Saturday after the Telangana strike enforced a holiday on July 22.

"On Monday evening, there was a dragon fly attack on the sets. They weren't the regular dragonflies, so we had to be cautious and turn off all the lights for a couple of hours," says the source, adding that it wasn't until early morning that the hordes of dragonflies dispersed.

Further, the source informs they couldn't shoot it in the morning, as the kiss scene was to be shot in the night.
"But we did shoot the complete buildup to the liplock, with Tusshar stopping his bike near Vidya's car and walking towards her, lying on the bonnet with people watching."

Director Milan Luthria confirmed the incident, terming the insect attack 'horrifying'. "There were millions of those flies. They would get into our mouths and clothes," he recalls.

Fortunately, the flies left before dawn. "So we could shoot some scenes before packing up the schedule. We couldn't shoot the kiss scene then and have scheduled it for another day," adds Milan.

I'm the panty-less girl: Yana Gupta

Yana Gupta

Controversy is her middle name and she lives up to that title with gusto. But it's Yana's sense of humour that really stands out about her. 

She shrugs off her latest scandal with a laugh, saying "I'm the panty-less girl! I simply wasn't expecting the issue to blow up like that. I just thought, 'keep your legs crossed, no big deal,' but it wasn't that simple. But being in this industry, you learn that these things come and go all the time. You can stress yourself out or let them be."

That apart, Yana's had a finger in several pies so far. From modeling, to acting and now, a music album and a book. "The music album is all set to release in March. It's been described as a cross between Bjork and Norah Jones," says Yana, adding that her book will be out by December this year. "I don't want to reveal the title, but it's about how to love your body. I believe that the most important thing is to love yourself exactly the way you are."

Being in an industry where physical perfection is everything, this is a lofty ideal. "I'm not perfect," says Yana, "But then, who is? It's more about what's going on in your head than what's happening outside."

Today, as beautiful women from all over the world are taking Bollywood by storm, queueing up to do item numbers in films, Yana can content herself with the fact that she's the real deal, the woman behind the trend. "I have talent, no doubt," she agrees and adds, "But it's also about timing and meeting the right people. It's vital to be in the right place at the right time." 

Mrinalini Sharma is the bold bikini girl

 Mrinalini Sharma

Mrinalini Sharma, known for her demure roles in Awarapan and Hide and Seek will next be seen in a whole new avatar in her film oppositeRajeev Khandelwal. 

The actress will be seen sporting bikinis for the first time. She says, "I represent the urban metropolitan youth, so it's natural that I wear a bikini or a swimsuit at a beach or in a pool.

It is part of my job to confidently carry off this kind of look. I can do sexy, sensuous scenes that flow in with a script and make sense to me. As an actor and a professional, I would deliver the same. However, I don't believe in random show of skin for the sake of sensationalism and would be uncomfortable with the same.

Salman's mother joins him in Dublin

Salman

Salma Khan to stay with her son for a month and tend to him as he recovers from surgery, while 

Salman Khan is back in action after surgery. Khan resumed shooting for Yash Raj Films's Ek Tha Tiger about 15 days ago in Dublin after a successful operation for his painful nerve condition, trigeminal neuralgia, on August 31.

It's not only good friend and co-star Katrina Kaif, who is keeping him company but also someone, who Salman needed badly to be with, post-recovery. No prizes for guessing who that someone is: it's his mother, Salma Khan, who has flown in to be with her son for at least a month and look after him.

"Bhai is fine now and he has resumed shooting. He swears by his mother's food and is obviously very happy to have her with him," confirms Dibhash, Salim Khan's PA.

Salma could not accompany Salman earlier on, for the surgery, due to Eid and Ganpati celebrations at home.

The family has a tradition of observing the festival and Salma didn't want to break the auspicious ritual so she stayed back and prayed for her beta's good health.

But now that the celebrations are over and since Khan could not be back home due to his shooting schedule in Ireland, the concerned mother decided to join him there. Salim (Salman's father) Khan however will not be joining his wife and will continue to stay put in Mumbai.

Vidya Balan's starrer ‘Dirty picture’, not soft porn: Milan Luthria

Vidya Balan

]]Mumbai: In a bid to clear Vidya Balan's worries about his film, 'Dirty Picture' director wants actress to check DVDs that have "strong, sexual" female characters.

Director Milan Luthria has given his Dirty Picture lead actress Vidya Balan DVDs of English films ‘Burlesque’ and ‘Chicago’ to watch after she voiced apprehensions that the film would end up being soft porn.

A source close to the director reveals, "Milan has asked Vidya to study Burlesque for her role as Silk Smitha. He's also asking her to watch films of Ingrid Bergman; etc. The emphasis is on emulating women with strong and overtly sexual body language."

Get an idea

Milan says, "Vidya wanted to have an idea about what was in my head and about the character she plays. So as a reference point, I asked her to watch Burlesque and Chicago for rhythmic energy, lighting, photo, costumes, etc.

“After watching Burlesque, Vidya's respect for me shot up a few notches further," he laughs.

"Most people perceive DP to be a very hard-hitting south Indian ‘masala ‘soft porn film. "That's why it's important to see films like ‘Burlesque’ to show you the potential for this art form whether it is about a stripper, dancer or item girl," he added.

"I wanted Vidya to know that what she's doing is not crass or crude but can be shown aesthetically in a sensual manner with a touch of class. What her character does is not cheap. I wanted to show her that I haven't taken up a career in soft porn," Milan jokes.

Girls’ craze John Abraham says married men are attractive

 John Abraham

Recently breaking up from the model and actress Bipasa Basu, Bollywood’s Greek God John has created hopes in all spinsters. They can now dream again about the hottest guy of Hindi cinema and fantasize he way they want.Better known as Mumbai film industry’s sexiest man alive, John Abraham says that he has no problems in getting married and he may tie the knot very soon.John’s long relationship with Bipasa Basu ended recently as the lady killer hero was not so keen in marry the dashing Bengali beauty despite dating her for last 9 years. Bipasa demanded for marriage, however John denied her as he did not want to go for marital commitments with her, said some reliable sources.

However, the recent drastic change in his attitude surprised everyone. Perhaps handsome John has finally been able to come out of his fear from marriage. While talking to some media persons the hottest actor stated, “I really don`t know what my life holds for me.”

He does not deny the probability of falling in love with somebody else. He also added that whatever happened, he was not regretful with the present situations of his life.

John, who won hearts by playing hot and controversial roles of homosexual stated that he also wanted to get married.

When asked, John said amusingly that he did not fear losing his fans or slipping down from the crown tag of India’s sexiest bachelor. Rather John believes that even married men are equally considered hot.

He also denied the rumors of dating Deepika Padukone. He however openly accepted that he is very fond of the “Om Shanti Om” girl and finds her lovely. He felt bad about the girls when such rumors are made, stated the sensible Bollywood hero.

Aishwarya Rai: No! to 3D

Aishwarya Rai

With technology constantly growing, the 3D films are now the latest trend in producing movies. Therefore, Bollywood could not stay behind, and started to work on a 3D production. However, not all are very content with the idea. Aishwarya Rai, for example, appears to be more old fashion than one might think. She refused to be part of this project, but the reasons remain unclear for now.

Allegedly, the film is a remake after “Arundhati”, a major hit at the time, directed by Telugu. Currently, there was not any decision made clear, but there are two candidates for the leading role, Deepika Padukone and Priyanka Chopra. Nonetheless, “Gemini films”, the large production house, would make the movie under one sole condition. That Aishwarya Rai is leading actress. The 3D sensation needed 70 dies of ash. The actress is simply too busy to participate in this project.

A reliable source says that Priyanka is the favorite, after Aishwarya. Other actors casted for this production include Aamir Khan, who will play a villain, the wicked “Aghora”.

Ekta calls 'Dirty Picture' India's version of 'Boogie Nights'

Vidya Balan

New Delhi: Relating her upcoming flick ‘Dirty Picture’ to international film ‘Boogie Nights’, producer Ekta Kapoor said this is her most special project.

Terming her movie as the Indian version of 'Boogie Nights' she said that it is based on the story of a young man's adventures in the Californian porn industry of the 1970s and 80s.

'Boogie Nights' was a film that shocked the sensibilities of people.

The difference, perhaps, is the inspiration of 'Dirty Picture' - late south Indian actress Silk Smitha, whose rise and fall as a sex siren and ultimately her death made for a moving story, according to Ekta.

'I would be surprised if I don't get unbelievable critical acclaim for 'Dirty Picture' and a national award for my actress, Vidya Balan. The movie has one of the most well-written scripts I have come across and a lot of youngsters in my office have looked at it with great admiration,' she added.

Silk Smitha was born as Vijayalakshmi, but she found her new name following the success of her Tamil film 'Vandi Chakkram' in which she had stunned audiences with her oomph quotient. Her character in the film was named Silk, following which she became Silk Smitha.

She went on to become a symbol of sensuality after doing bold and semi-nude roles and she even tried her hand at producing movies. But gradually, after getting sidelined by younger actresses, financial crisis and personal problems took a toll on her life.

Ekta, who is riding high as a successful film producer with unique and experimental projects like 'Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai', 'Love Sex Aur Dhokha', 'Shor In The City' and now 'Ragini MMS', says the film is 'closest to my heart'.

'At no point have we tried to justify her (Smitha) or criticise her. We will just let the audience live her life... after that, it is up to the audience to walk out of the theatre with tears or a smile,' she said.

The movie, directed by Milan Luthria, will be an insight into the life of Smitha, who titillated the audience with her sensual roles throughout her career, but had a tragic end at the age of 35.

Choosing Vidya for the role has been the best decision ever, says Ekta.

'She has such a range of acting... her expressions are well controlled... We couldn't have found anyone better than Vidya for this role. It's a casting that very few would think is viable because it is going to be nothing like Vidya has done before. But I am confident she will push the envelope as far as she can,' she said.

Ekta, daughter of veteran actor Jeetendra, agrees her movies are a little experimental for the Indian audience, but she doesn't mince words when she says 'I can't be a slave to appreciation'.

Bollywood grooves to Tollywood tunes

salman khan

After borrowing our scripts, hiring our heroines and importing our directors, the Hindi film industry is now dancing to Tollywood's tunes, literally! Our filmy tracks, with their teen maar beats and rustic, mass lyrics was for long a hit with music lovers, not just in the country but also abroad, with listeners downloading our music just for its groovy beats. 

It's well known how "Dhinka Chinka" from Salman Khan's "Ready" had the nation tapping its feet. The song, a Bollywood-ized version of our very own "Ringa Ringa" from Allu Arjun's "Arya 2", was music composer Devi Sri Prasad's (DSP) claim to national fame. He is not alone in this department. All set to give him company is music director Chakri. The composer is all set to work in a Prakash Jha production soon.

And for those of you who didn't know, Anoop Rubens, a small-time Tollywood composer, was approached to do the re-recording for the Amitabh-starrer, "BBuddah... Hoga Tera Baap". So impressed was Big B, that he publicly praised Anoop's work.

This year may have brought back mana Tollywood music directors in national spotlight, but over the years, many of our musicians have been inspiring Bollywood. MM Keeravani has worked in 15 Hindi films including "Criminal", "Is Raat Ki Subah Nahin", "Sur: The Melody of Life", "Zakhm", "Saaya", "Jism", "Rog" and "Paheli".

And let's not forget the global appeal our dhinka chika beats seem to have. DSP's "Aa Ante Amalapuram", which is heard everywhere from UP and Bihar to Mumbai, is a hit in Europe too. We reported how Baba Sehghal was once surprised to hear the track being played at a night club in Amsterdam!

That's not all. Other mass hits like "Mayadaari Maissamma" and "Gajuvaka Pilla", apart from "Ringa Ringa" have become virals on the Web.

Audio hungama
Tollywood is one industry where the music of the film almost always decides its fate. Audio functions here are not just about launching the music of the film. Here in Tollywood-crazy Hyderabad, these launches are full-fledged filmi events with all the makings of a movie - stars gushing about each other, thousands of fans gathering to get a dekko of the stars and loads of tear-jerkers and laughs.

Whether the movie is a big budget flick or a small time one, the audio functions always end up being extravagant spectacles. In fact, Tollywoodwalas ensure that these music launches turn out to be one of the main attractions of the film's promotions, because the success of the music helps boost the film.

And if the movie happens to star a Tollywood biggie, the event is nothing short of long filmi award functions, complete with speeches, dances, mob of fans and lots of hungama. No where else in the country are audio functions such star-studeed, glitzy events.

The recently-held audio launch of the Mahesh Babu-starrer "Dookudu" and NTR Jr's "Oosaravelli" stand testimony to this trend. At both these functions, professional dance troupes performed to the film's tracks and a few funny stage acts by Tollywood comedians were also presented. A usually reclusive Mahesh Babu, even entertained the audience at the audio launch for hours together, to promote his film, only proving how important these functions are for a movie's success.

Even the makers of Tamil flicks who dub their movies in Telugu have discovered the magic mantra of grand audio launches. The music of Suriya's film "7am arivu" which is being dubbed here as "The 7th Sense" was launched in a grand event that had the biggest of Tollywood names as guests, from Ram Charan and Bunny to Allu Aravind, Rajamouli and VV Vinayak.

The Bollywood Duo to Act Together Again

Aishwarya Rai and Abhishek Bachchan
It is rumored that the power couple of India, Aishwarya Rai and her husband Abhishek Bachchan will soon be seen together again on the big screen in a film called 'Ladies and Gentlemen'. The couple should be hesitatn after their last film failed so horribly at the box office (called Raaven), but looks like they are giving it another shot in the upcoming comedic film. Even if the movie turns out horrible, it will be money well spent just for the chance to see the Indian beauty in all her glory.

Vidya Balan, Emraan Hashmi gear up for kiss fest for their forthcoming film 'Dirty Picture

Vidya Balan

Mumbai: What happens when the official 'serial kisser' of B-Town and an actress popular for her oomph factor ever since she entered the industry get together? Yes, Emraan Hashmi and Vidya Balan, who star together in Milan Luthria's Dirty Picture are gearing up to set the screen on fire.

According to sources, Vidya will soon enter the long list of heroines Emraan has lip-locked on screen. Apparently, they would not only have a couple of sizzling scenes in the movie, but also an exceedingly intimate and romantic number together.

Vidya Balan

Getting comfortable

However, since this is the first time the two actors have been cast opposite each other, their director, Milan, is trying to do all he can to eliminate any edginess. It has been learnt that he is first shooting the 'easier' scenes so that they become friendly and comfortable and then film the high-voltage ones.

"Their chemistry needs to be very natural. So Milan decided to schedule the 'sexy' portions for later," says a source.

Apparently, Emraan, who plays a filmmaker in DP, gets attracted to Vidya, who's portraying a character based on southside sex siren, Silk Smitha.

"She has never played such a character before. So she's working hard to make sure that not the slightest awkwardness comes across on screen," says a source associated with the film.

Since they started shooting, the two actors have cultivated a friendly rapport. It seems Emraan is often cracking jokes in-between shots and Vidya loves his quirky sense of humour.

"In the romantic song that will be shot at Ramoji Rao Film City in Hyderabad, they will be required to lock lips to bring out the love and intimacy their characters share," reveals our source, adding that the other kiss features in a scene they will be shooting after the song.

Director Milan Luthria was unavailable for comment.

Vidya, the Serial Kisser?

The movies in which Vidya has locked lips:

- Ishqiya (2010)

- Salaam-e-Ishq (2007)

- Guru (2007)

Mallika Sherawat on the ramp

 Mallika Sherawat

Designer duo Anjalee and Arjun Kapoor opened the Aamby Valley India Bridal Week 2011 at Hotel Sahara Star, Mumbai, with a dazzling Phantom Couture collection. 

Inspired by the Victorian era and the drama of Mughal times, the designers wove together glamour, grandeur and colour into their ball gowns and ethnic wear.

For the finale, Anjalee and Arjun had the sexyMallika Sherawat walk as the showstopper in a jewelled bustier and a bright carrot red panelled lehenga. Mallika said, "What I like about Anjalee and Arjun Kapoor's fashion sensibility is that they are unafraid to experiment. It's exciting to wear a bridal outfit with a twist. I love the romantic look of the lotus concept lehenga. It makes a style statement for any trousseau and signifies luxury for the new age bride."
Jewel tones of ruby, sapphire, emerald and topaz peppered this collection of moulded blouses and fluid voluminous skirts. Delicate lace trimmings edged the creations to highlight the silhouettes. Precious stones like crystals, emeralds, rubies, turquoise and aquamarine glittered on every garment. Menswear consisted of black and white sections with churidars, sherwanis and Jodhpur jackets embellished with gleaming silk and brocades with tonal crystals on the cuffs, shoulders and garments.
For brides and grooms who want to make their D-day a memorable one, the Phantom Couture collection by Anjalee and Arjun Kapoor will be the perfect offering. 

Sanjay Dutt, Ajay Devgn get along well

Ajay Devgn

You have repeatedly said that Rascals will remind us of Govinda-David Dhawan combination of the 90's. What change do you notice between then and now in handling the genre of comedy? 
Earlier, in the 90's when I made comedies with Govinda, it was a rare genre. Audience was more into emotional dramas and film makers were not very confident about making comedies. They were scared. But today the scenario is different. Comedies are not necessarily small budget films. Audience is also lapping it up, there are many film makers taking that genre seriously and so are the actors. These days many A-grade stars are doing comedies. And if we bring in emotion along with comedy it works wonders. 
I have directed Sanjay in many films. And then, Sanjay and Ajay get along very well, they are very good friends off-screen. I think it is the best combination. As a pair they are super. When doing a comedy, it is very important that two people are good friends, it becomes easier for a director while shooting. And one very special thing about them is that both of them are very secure actors. Otherwise actors feel very insecure and worried about what clothes the other has got, whether they have got a better line, dialogues, etc. Sanjay and Ajay are my obedient students. They would never worry about these little things. 

Sanjay Dutt

Neha Dhupia's macrobiotic diet

Neha Dhupia

My workouts comprise indoor and outdoor routines with a mixture of cardio and weight training thrice a week. I also play squash and often go for a swim. Both are great forms of cardio that not only make you sweat but also help you disconnect from the woes of the world and make you focus on what you have at hand, thereby improving your ability to concentrate and maximise your output. 
Playing a sport or swimming helps maintain the interest level in a workout and adds the fun element. I also practise yoga, something I've been doing for many years now. I believe that you need to have a balance in your workouts as cardio helps build stamina and yoga helps provide the necessary balance and overall well being. 

My Problem Areas 
My curves. But I always use them to my advantage since I don't believe in size zero. 

My Strengths 
While I enjoy sweating it out in the gym. I believe my strength lies in my attitude. When I work out I always feel it is mind over body and because of that I'm always able to push myself a little more. 

My Diet 
I am currently on a macrobiotic diet which is 80 per cent organic. I don't eat anything that comes out of a can. Hence, I eat freshly cooked vegetables, fresh fruits and consume freshly-made fruit and vegetable juices. I tend to stay away from red meat but I do give in once in a while. I love ghar ka khana because I know it is fresh and without preservatives. 

I am little more than alive: Dev Anand

Dev Anand

Dev Anand is living like a gypsy these days. He has parked himself in a small, dimly lit room stacked with papers, trophies, posters of his old classics, photographs, portraits.. 

It will take a few more weeks to shift everything back from this makeshift office to his penthouse which is getting renovated few metres away. Even as it is difficult for him to scurry around like this, it doesn't let it affect his enthusiasm and cheerful disposition. He is geared up to release his new film Chargesheet - a murder mystery, on September 30, four days after his 88th birthday on September 26.

Birthday wishes 
"I have not celebrated my birthday for a single year as a star. But every year, few days before my birthday, my fans start calling me wanting to know that where do they meet me. I can understand their excitement because when I was nobody and called someone important, I would love to hear their voice. My fans take it for granted that they are coming. People congregate from different parts of the country to celebrate, and not wanting to leave," says the legendary actor. But this time Dev Anand has asked his fans to hold on to the celebrations as the only motivating factor for him is his film, nothing else. It doesn't matter to him much if his colleagues and contemporaries don't wish him on his birthday, "I don't expect them to do so because they are very busy and to reach them one has to go through their secretary." 

Chirag Paswan's bonding with Kangna Ranaut

Kangna Ranaut

Chirag Paswan who debuts in Anuj Saxena's film Miley Na Mile Hum is all praises for his co-star Kangna Ranaut, who he says he really enjoyed working with, and thinks of as a really nice person. 

The cast who got along like a house on fire, has had a lot of fun on the sets while filming. Says a source, "It was fun all along, but I think one of the best memories was a dinner at Goa, that Kangna threw for the cast at the end of the schedule, to celebrate the completion of Chirag's first film. We had worked hard and it was apparent the cast got along really well, specially Kangna and Chirag."

Now preparing for a hectic promotional schedule, Kangna says, "Chirag has been a great co-star and I have enjoyed working with him. This is really Chirag's film, and I think he's done a great job. I certainly hope audiences enjoy watching it."

What about rumours of them not getting along ? "It's all rubbish," says Kangna. "We get along well, I think people just look for stories to make up and stir up controversy unecessarily."
The promotional schedule will be led by Kangna and Chirag in cities across India

Akshay is all heart for a cause

Akshay Kumar

A very fit superstar and a very sought after doctor came together to publicly support the cause of low cost cardiac care. 

The product Asian Seva, is an effort on behalf of the Asian Heart team to bring expert cardiac treatment to the two most important segments of our society- children and senior citizens. Akshay Kumar andDr. Ramakanta Panda, the PM's surgeon launched Asian Seva to provide cardiac care to the needy, aged below 12 years and senior citizens above 65 years of age. The expert team of AHI Doctors will be operating on these patients. Displaying excellent camaraderie; the two had the audience of chemists and well wishers in splits!