Shahrukh Khan blames smoking habit on days with theatre

Bollywood superstar Shahrukh Khan blames his initial days with theatre for his smoking habit.
Recalling his days as a theatre actor in Delhi, he said: “I remember when a fireplace was put up, the guys used to go behind the fireplace to smoke and put out the fire. That’s how I also started smoking and it is not my fault. It has (this habit) got all to do with theatre.”
The Badshah of Bollywood, who arrived in Toronto for the 12th International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) awards ceremony, said he would love to return to theatre as it was his first love.
“I belong to theatre. I started off doing a lot of stage in Delhi… first small time and then a little on the streets. Always the desire was to be a theatre actor. I used to work with John Barry and even Sheilaji – a lot of wonderful producers, directors. We used to go out and perform in small little theatres and on stages.”
He added, “The Kingdom of Dreams (in Gurgaon) wants me to come and perform under the tutelage of Shiamak Davar.”
Challenging Dawar and making fun of his knee problem, he said, “My dance is better than yours even on one leg.”
When a reporter asked him in lighter vein in Hindi, “Kya mard ko dard naahi hota: (whether a man like him doesn’t feel pain) – Shah Rukh replied in the same vein – “Mard ko bahut dard hota hai” (the man feels a lot of pain).
The actor said he was advised two weeks ago not to perform, but he didn’t want to go back on his commitment to Wizcraft “who have been very kind to me all these years”.
He said his knee surgery is scheduled for July.

Shamita Shetty has plans to quit a career in acting?

Shamita Shetty has been struggling hard in Bollywood for quite sometime now and she does not have many movies to boast about till now. Of late, she has hardly played any significant role in any flick. So, finally she has decided to try her luck in some other field. Sources have it that Shilpa Shetty’s sister will be leaving for London to pursue a course in interior designing.
Shamita’s elder sister and better known Shilpa explains, “Shamita is now entering another phase in her life and career. She is now heading to London for a six-month course in interior designing. We all felt this was the right move for her to make.”
Talking about her own life, Shilpa said, “At the moment, I’m playing the most satisfying role of my life - that of an housewife. Films were never the be-all-end-all of my life.
Right now I find the idea of looking after my home far more exciting and challenging than rushing off to studios early morning.”

Is it love for Zarine Khan?

Sallu’s hottie from the long lost Veer and the character dheela song leading gal, Zarine Khan was seen with a man at a Worli nightclub.
A spectator reveals, “Zarine walked in at around 1 am with a bunch of friends. There were a few guys and a girl in her gang. Her brother was also present. She was dressed in a white top and a black mini skirt and had a tattoo of a heart inked on her left ankle. One guy in particular stood out as the object of attention.”
The source didn’t get the name of the guy but says “They were very comfortable in each other’s company and were seen cosying up. Zarine and this guy kept showering each other with loving pecks on the cheeks, holding hands and hugging each other. Interestingly, when she hit the dance floor, the DJ played her hit track from Ready, Character Dheela Hai. The man was dressed in blue denims and white shirt with gray stripes and has a spiked hairstyle.”
Zarine denied the incident by saying she was in Goa. When confidently asked she says, “He is a very dear friend. The reason I was affectionate with him was because he arranged the surprise party for me.” But she claimed that they are not dating, “I am very much single.”
Hey Zarine what happened to your loyalty to Salman?

Liz Hurley and Warne’s love story

Finally the most talked and hottest couple of IPL 2011 had a big bash. Shilpa Shetty threw a party for Shane Warne, the captain of her IPL team Rajasthan Royals and Elizabeth Hurley aka Liz Hurley in Mumbai. The party was planned earlier in Jaipur but was shifted to Mumbai due to Shilpa’s ill health who is recovering from spondylosis.
Warne will retire after the IPL. Liz is in India with her son Damin to cheer Shane Warne’s team. Most of the players think Liz is a lucky charm for their team and the party will enhance their team image.
After the hot lip locks on the field by Warne and Liz, it’s the time to celebrate!!

Sonakshi impresses her ‘Joker’ director

In spite of her small role in Dabangg, Sonakshi Sinha as her father got in limelight with her dialogue.
In her next film, Joker,while Akshay is the lead and an alien concept is the major show, will the new comer have a platform  to prove herself.
When asked Shirish Kunder, the film director she assured by saying, “Yes definitely, in JOKER she is there right through the film with Akshay.  She has a well etched out part and the best part is that both she as well I are very enthusiastic about making the best use of the platform made available as this is our second film each. I would personally like to work more with someone like her who is younger and is just starting off as it brings us both in the same space.”
Shirish, who has worked with Preity Zinta in his debut directorial outing JAAN-E-MANN, adds, “She has that gift which I guess come from her genes. You have to tell Sonakshi just once about what you want and she does it just perfectly well. You don’t have to explain things much to her. This reflects not just in her act but also the dialogue delivery as she brings in punctuations at just the right place in the right way.”

Madame Tassauds to put up Kareena Kapoor’s waxed statue

There is no denying the fact that Kareena Kapoor is one of the most successful, stylish and popular actresses of Bollywood. So, it did not come as a surprise when she was chosen as the next Bollywood actress after Aishwarya Rai to get waxed at the celebrated Madame Tussauds in London.
According to the sources, the museum got numerous requests from her fans to get her wax statue. Since Kareena is busy these days with her shoot in Pondicherry with Aamir Khan, she has yet to complete all the formalities but she does intend to take time out and head to UK to meet the officials.
Madamme Tassauds have a horde of Bollywood celebs waxed at their museum right from Amitabh Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai, Shahrukh Khan, Salman Khan and Hrithik Roshan. Considering Bebo’s popularity worldwide, she does seem to be an apt choice to join the list.

Asin paired opposite SRK in ‘2 States’

Since the time Sajid Nadiawala’s next project titled ‘2 States’ starring SRK has been announced, there have been guesses as to who would be paired against King Khan in this flick which is based on Chetan Bhagat’s bestseller ‘Two States’. Where Priyanka Chopra and Deepika Padukone seemed to be strong contenders for the role, it is finally South beauty Asin who has bagged in the role.
The film will be directed by ace director Vishal Bhardwaj and the story of the film revolves around the life of a young couple Krish and Ananya, who belong to Delhi and Tamil Nadu respectively. They meet while studying at IIM, Ahmadabad and headed for a marriage which is against their wishes of their parents who do not support this ‘cross cultural’ marriage.
Asin has already had the honors of working with the other two Khans (Aamir Khan in Ghajini and Salman Khan in London Dreams and Ready) of Bollywood. With being paired opposite SRK himself, she has added yet another feather to her Bollywood career.

Kanishtha Dhankhar oozes traditional beauty at Cannes

Cannes this year is all glamour and glitter with Bollywood beauties in their presentable best at the red carpet. Apart from Bollywood actresses, the Miss India World 2011 Kanishtha Dhankhar also walked the red carpet along with the renowned Indian fashion designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee for Chivas.
Kanishtha looked ravishing in her traditional attire created by Sabyasachi which had zari work in gold added with a dupatta in nude shade. She added to her traditional look with dozens of gold and black bangles and a hanging pendant (mang tika) on the forehead.
An all elated Kanishtha said before leaving for Cannes, “I had many plans for this year but not even in my wildest dreams had I thought that I will be walking the Cannes red carpet. I feel lucky and blessed.”
Take a look at the 22-year-old Mumbai girl in her princess avatar at Cannes………..

Kangana Ranaut to play Madhubala for Anurag Basu’s next?

Gossip columns had been abuzz with the rumours that Anurag Basu was considering Katrina Kaif to essay the role of Madhubala for his next project which happens to be a biographical film on the legendry Kishore Kumar.
While the critics totally approved that Kats was an apt choice, there does seem to be some other candidates for the role. Rumors are making rounds that Kangana Ranaut has created impressions with her beauty and performance in ‘Tanu Weds Manu’ and she is being considered for the role too.
It may be mentioned here that it was Basu who had launched Kangana in the tinsel town with ‘Gangster’. However, Kangana Ranaut and Anurag Basu had fallen out with each other when Ranaut had accused Basu in the media for slashing her role in ‘Kites’ but both seem to have made up with each other now.
While we feel that Katrina stands way ahead than Kangana in being the right choice to play Madhubala, who finally grabs the role, only time can tell………..

Aishwarya Rai and Arjun Rampal reduce their fees for ‘Heroine’

Bollywood is going through a rough phase this year since none of its films have set the cash registers ringing in the months that have gone by. Going through the box office dull phase, the makers of the movie ‘Heroine’ have decided to keep the costs low for their flick and stick to their original target of Rs 18 crore budget.
The film stars Aishwarya Rai and Arjun Rampal and both the stars have decided to co-operate with the producers. As such, they have agreed to slash their fees and instead, they will take a share from the profit of the film.
Even the director Madhur Bhandarkar has agreed to stand by the producers UTV Motion Pictures in their profit. The movie is expected to go on floors on June 8.

2011: An action packed year for Kareena Kapoor

The year 2011 seems to be an action packed year for seemingly fragile Kareena Kapoor for she has not one or two, but three action films in her kitty. Normally, Bebo has done romantic, cute and bubbly roles in her career and this is the first time she will be seen in serious action roles. She plays a diverse range of roles as a college student, a super spy and a mother in her films to come which include Siddique’s ‘Bodyguard’, Sriram Raghavan’s ‘Agent Vinod’ and Anubhav Sinha’s ‘Ra.One’.
Ra.One has her indulging into some serious fist fights and director Anubhav Sinha is thoroughly impressed with the way Bebo has indulged into preparations for her role. He says, “This is the first time Kareena is doing action scenes. She is the part of the serious action sequences including hand to hand combat. The film has several such sequences and she features in almost all of them.”
The action scenes for ‘Ra.One’ have been directed by Hollywood’s ace action directors Andy Gill and Spiro Razatos of ‘Fast and Furious’ fame.

Katrina Kaif to go de-glam for Kabir Khan’s ‘Ek Tha Tiger’

Katrina Kaif is one actress who has made it to the top slot of Bollywood on the basis of sheer beauty and glamour because her acting skills and dialogue delivery is still a major target with critics. However, the pretty lady is all set to prove that she can impress her fans even without her oomph and glamour because she will be seen without any traces of makeup for Kabir Khan’s next ‘Ek Tha Tiger’ where she is paired opposite Salman Khan.
Kabir has strictly instructed Katrina to use no make-up at all before her shots as she plays a character is of a girl-next-door who doesn’t stand out in the crowd. Kats will not even be allowed to dab on some natural-colored lipstick or touch up her face before every shot, like a lot of actresses do while playing de-glam roles. Sources imply that the brief to Katrina from Kabir strictly read, ‘Your only makeup would be face-wash before every shot.”
Though we have full confidence in Kabir Khan’s visualization of his characters, how Kaif’s fans react to her de-glam avatar is yet to be seen………

Brett Lee and Preity Zinta on a secret date!!

Brett Lee, a former team player of Kings XI Punjab, had made the gossip columns go berseck with rumors of his romance with Bollywood actress and co-owner of the IPL team Kings XI Punjab, Preity Zinta, during the first season of IPL when the two were seen exchanging generous hugs and frank display of affection publicly. However, Lee was married to Elizabeth Kemp then, though his marriage was going through a rough phase.
Lee got divorced in 2009 and now once again, the romance between the two seems to have re-surfaced as Preity and Brett were spotted at a nightspot in Mumbai on Tuesday. Reportedly, they
spent around two hours together at Olive but did not leave the joint together as there were paparazzi outside. Lee departed from the main entrance, while Zinta sneaked out from the back door.
Well, Preity has long been single and much eligible. So, it is but natural that a divorced Brett would love to spend time together with this dimpled beauty whom he had once quoted as his favorite actress!!

Ayesha Takia to make her comeback with Nagesh Kukunoor’s ‘Mod’

Ayesha Takia has been long missing from limelight post her marriage. However, good news awaits her fans as she is all set to star opposite Ranvijay Singh (of Roadies fame) in Nagesh Kukunoor’s forthcoming flick ‘Mod’. The film is based on the Taiwanese film ‘Keeping Watch’ and Nagesh has purchased the rights for its remake.
The film is a suspense drama and was shot in Ooty on a start-to-finish schedule earlier this year.  The Indian version has been kept close to the original in terms of the plot and characters. Only a few changes have been made, particularly in Ayesha’s father’s character played by Raghubir Yadav, to suit the Indian audience.
The story of the film is based on the sudden arrival of Han (played by Rannvijay Singh) and its impact on the monotonous life of Ching (Ayesha Takia).  She falls in love with him only to be shattered when he disappears just as abruptly. Ching calls Han’s parents and it is revealed that he had died many years ago.

Bipasha Basu journeying around the world for ‘Players’

Journey is on cards for Bipasha Basu these days. The dusky Bong beauty is enjoying the flavours of different cultures around the world as she shoots for her upcoming film Players.
Recently, Bips was in Russia for the shoot and she shared her love for the place with her Twitter update which read, “Walking around and getting to know the place! Amazing weather!”
“Last day in St.Petersburg! Russia is a wonderful n beautiful place! Schedule fr Players wraps today,” she added.
However, these journeys have not been without their share of woes. Bips was detained on Thursday at Mumbai airport for not declaring goods when she was returning from London.
She was let off after she paid up a tax of Rs 10,000, allegedly for carrying personal goods worth Rs 65,000.

Arabaaz and Malaika Arora Khan are very much together

Arbaaz Khan and Malaika Arora Khan make one of the most adorable couples of Bollywood and it did come as a surprise for many of their fans when the rumors stating a rift in their marriage started rising now and then in the gossip columns. Some reports even stated that Malaika has shifted to her mom’s place due to irresolvable dispute between the two.
However, Arbaaz vehemently denied any trouble in his marriage and even expressed his anger and disappointed on such baseless rumors.
“Let me clarify one last time that Malaika and me are very much together… gossip mongers and stupid malicious reporting about us should stop,” Arbaaz posted on his Twitter page Thursday.
“We don’t need to validate our relationship constantly because of some stupid news in some gossip column,” he added.
“It would be nice if over-enthusiastic journalists show a little responsibility before carrying personal news about people that is a lie,” he posted.
“Recently read and heard some ridiculous nasty rumours that Malaika and me have split. It’s very disgusting to read such untrue news in media (sic),” he added.
We hope and pray that theirs remains a happy marriage now and ever after!!

Shilpa Shetty’s estate in Surrey in clutches of six squatters

Shilpa Shetty and Raj Kundra own a sprawling six-bedroom Woodlawn Cottage on the exclusive estate of the St. George’s Hill community in Weybridge, Surrey. Former residents of the estate include singer Elton John, former Beatle Ringo Starr and Hollywood actress Kate Winslet.
However, a gang of six squatters have moved into this abandoned three million pound property and claim that it is legal for them to move here as the lock was already broken and they plan to stay as long as possible.
‘It is legal for me to be here. I found the place on Google maps so I came up to have a look and the place was open. The locks had been broken off, no one was living here, it was completely open - so why not?’ a squatter named Stefan Cybulski said.
The celebrity residents of the estate want to send these people out but the law seems to be in their favor.
‘It does seem pretty extraordinary that the police can’t do anything to get these people off the estate,’ a resident said adding, ‘They have no right to be here, yet the law appears to be on their side - it’s completely wrong.’

Dia Mirza and Zayed Khan in ‘Love Breakups Zindagi’

It has been a long time since Dia Mirza appeared in a promising flick. With her career not taking up a positive move, she has collectively launched a production house named Born Free Entertainment along with Zayed Khan and she will be seen along with him in ‘Love Breakups Zindagi’, their debut movie under this production house.
The movie happens to be a romantic comedy which also stars Cyrus Sahukar, Tisca Chopra, Satyadeep Misra, Pallavi, Vaibhav Talwar and newcomer Auritra Ghosh in the lead roles. The movie is being shot in Mumbai.
Check out Dia along with Zayed during the shoot where she looks pretty as usual in a short pink skirt and a cotton top and Zayed complementing her beauty with his handsome looks in a formal sky blue shirt teamed with formal khaki pant.

Madhuri Dixit buys a mall in Florida?

Madhuri Dixit received much praise and adoration for her beauty, poise and elegance in the reality show ‘Jhalak Dikhla Ja’. However, there is no denying the fact that her filmi career does not show much potential now. As such, Madhuri plans to look for other sources of financial support.
Reports have it that the ‘Dhak Dhak’ girl has invested in a mall in Florida worth millions of dollars. The mall is in downtown Miami, which happens to be a hot favorite of tourists who indulge in much shopping here. Reports add further that Madhuri has taken a loan from the bank for this project and is keen to sign films to pay interest for the bank loans every month.
However, Madhuri prefers to maintain silence on this topic and her business manager Rikku Rakeshnath maintains, “Madhuri hasn’t invested in any property at all in the USA or India.”

Salman Khan fined once again for smoking in public places

Bollywood stars may be idols for millions of fans around the country, but they are definitely not without their flaws. Addiction to smoking is one such evil to which most actors in Bollywood give in. Actors like Ajay Devgan and Shahrukh Khan have earlier been fined for lighting up cigarettes in public places.
This time Salman Khan came under the clutches of law and was fined with Rs. 200 for smoking in a public place while shooting for his film Bodyguard in Patiala, Punjab. A photograph of Sallu Bhai was published in a news daily on Saturday which showed Salman smoking in the Hotel Neemrana where the shooting of the film is going on.
Smoking in public places is banned in Patiala. So, Salman was charged with Rs. 200 fine by the local district authorities on Tuesday, which incidentally was also World No Tobacco Day. The hotel authorities were also issued a challan.
It may be mentioned here that Salman Khan was fined twice for the same offence in 2009 by the authorities of Karali town near Mohali.

Bollywood beauties oozing glamour at ‘Ready’ special screening

With ‘Ready’ gearing up for its release, the excitement could be felt at its private screening where Bollywood beauties put on their best foot forward in glamour and glitter. Sonakshi Sinha, Zarine Khan, Malaika Arora and Amrita Arora- all looked as stylish and beautiful as ever at the screening. Sonakshi Sinha opted for simple and casual yet evergreen blue denims teamed it up with a knotted blue check shirt. Salman Khan’s discovery and Katrina Kaif’s look alike, the Character Dheela girl Zarine Khan, too, went with a simple and comfortable tee.
Hot Malaika Arora Khan was spotted with her hubby Arbaaz Khan putting a finger to all baseless rumors about turmoil in their marriage. She matched up her simple outfit with a chic yellow designer bag. Equally vibrant was her sister Amrita Arora who opted for a cute outfit. Sexy Kagnana Ranaut opted for a off shoulder simple outfit.
Check out the beautiful ladies at the Ready special screening…….

Sameera Reddy gets ‘Fast and Furious’ for Priyadarshan’s ‘Tezz’

For those who thought that it was all over for Sameera Reddy’s career in Bollywood, here is the news that the sexy beauty is set to star once again with her Race co-star Anil Kapoor in her upcoming film ‘Tezz’.
The movie is directed by Priyadarshan and has an ample dose of action and stunts. Sameera gets a fair share of action sequences in the film and will be seen getting fast and furious will bikes. Sexy Sam is currently shooting for the film along with Ajay Devgn, Anil Kapoor and Zayed Khan in U.K.
During one such sequence in the film where Sameera was in a chase on a bike, the actress got so involved with her role that she exceeded the speed limit of the shooting parameter and was soon flagged off by the cops. She was let off by the cops only after a lot of convincing by Sameera and the rest of the production unit.
Talking about her experiences, Sameera said, “I learnt to ride a bike for the film. I also did white water-rafting and various stunts all by myself. The film really gets the best out of me in regards to doing amazing action sequences.”
She is all praises for her co-stars too and said, “Ajay Devgan is looking brilliant. Both Zayed Khan and he are great fun.”
Sameera will also be seen in Prabhudeva’s Tamil film titled Lingusamys Vetti.

Arunoday Singh cast opposite Aishwarya in ‘Heroine’

Much was being speculated by filmi pundits as to who would be cast opposite Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in Madhur Bhandarkar’s ‘Heroine’. Earlier, it was being said that Abhishek Bachchan was being considered for the role. However, the role finally falls in the laps of the promising new comer Arunoday Singh who has already done films like Yeh Saali Zindagi, Aisha and Sikandar. But being cast opposite Ash in Bhandarkar’s film is something which any new comer would give a hand for.
Arunoday has been a great fan of Madhur’s prior films ‘Chandni Bar’ and ‘Page3’. An elated Arunoday said, “Yes I am doing the film and I am over the moon. I can’t speak anything about the character but it feels great to be acting opposite Aishwarya Rai. Madhur is a wonderful director and I don’t need to say that.”
The film is based on the life of a successful film actress and her affair with a star cricketer. Check out the first look of ‘Heroine’…….

Sonakshi Sinha is the new face of D’Damas

After being the face for brands like Dyna Soap, Colgate toothpaste and Provogue’s women wear line in the endorsement world, the ‘Dabangg’ actress Sonakshi Sinha now bags in the endorsement deal with D’Damas, one of India’s leading diamond jewellery brands.
The campaign celebrates life in its small and special moments like experiencing the first rays of the sun emerging through darkness, the unique experience of being a bride, and enjoying the merriment at festivals like Diwali.
“D’damas, which is the only brand in the country having distinct sub-brands, also unveiled its new campaign. It takes the brands current positioning of ‘Celebrate Always’ forward with a fresh and more relevant execution and imagery, personified by Sonakshi Sinha,” said an official spokesperson.
Excited about her association with D’Damas, Sonakshi said, “It feels great to be the brand ambassador of D’Damas! I connect with D’Damas because I personally live each moment to the fullest and believe in celebrating life. D’Damas adds celebration to both ordinary and even the everyday special occasions.”
“When I want to celebrate any happiness in life I turn to D’Damas,” she said.
RK Menon, COO, D’damas Jewellery India Pvt Ltd., “Sonakshi Sinha is the face of the new Indian woman who is confident, versatile and has got tremendous self-belief. She has the charisma, grace, beauty and the attitude that goes perfectly with the brand image.
We wanted an ambassador who is not only popular but at the same time exemplifies the true Indian beauty thereby establishing a connection with the Indian audiences and Sonakshi completely fits the bill.”

John Abraham and Genelia D’Souza’s sizzling chemistry in ‘Force’

The action flick ‘Force’ directed by Nishikant Kamath stars John Abraham and Genelia D’Souza in the lead roles. Originally Asin was to play the main lead but the actress had already signed up for her upcoming movie Ready and so Genelia stepped in. However, the director is all satisfied by the chemistry between his leading pair and says, “I assure you that they will be one of those actors who share an amazing onscreen chemistry. They look sizzling together.”
Giving in more details about the film he said, “Force is an action love story. It’s a complete Bollywood package and full of action. The movie is an wholesome entertainer.”
Force is a remake of the 2003 Tamil movie Kaakha Kaakha and is produced by director Vipul Amrutial Shah. The film is set to release in July 2011.

Sexy Kangna Ranaut dons on a typical widow look for ‘Double Dhamaal’

Double Dhamaal, is all set for release on June 24th and stars Sanjay Dutt, Arshad Warsi, Jaaved Jaaferi, Riteish Deshmukh, Ashish Chowdhry, Mallika Sherawat, and Kangna Ranaut. The story of the film revolves around four friends - Adi, Roy, Manav and Boman - who decide to make money by investing in buildings. The movie has Kangna Ranaut play a widow and her character is set on the looks and feel of the character inspired by Jaya Bachchan’s role in Sholay.
In fact, in one of the scenes, Kangna wears an old white saree like Jaya in ‘Sholay’. Indra Kumar confirms, “It is a spoof, a funny scene all in good humor. We are not making fun of or passing derogatory remarks on Jayaji and Sholay. It’s just that in earlier times all widows were stereotyped. They wore white sarees and would only cook gajar ka halwa and alu parathas for their mothers. The particular scene, with all the other actors, is a spoof where she is in a widow’s garb with minimal make-up. In the film, she plays a modern, smart and sexy young secretary to Sanjay Dutt.”
Check out Kangna Ranaut- The widow in style looking sexy as ever even in her retro looks……….

When Shahid Kapoor saved Sonam Kapoor

Sonam Kapoor and Shahid Kapoor are working together in Pankaj Kapoor’s forthcoming ‘Mausam’ and reports have it that all the Kapoors are getting along very well together on the sets. In fact, Shahid saved Sonam from a fatal fire accident which occurred on the sets when the two were shooting for their climax scene together.
During the scene, Sonam’s dupatta was to catch fire which Shahid was to stomp it out with his foot. However, the wind made the fire spread faster than what was expected and the fire even reached up to Sonam’s body before she could realize. However, Shahid sensed the danger and jumped in. He did stomp out the fire with such force that it completely ripped the dupatta.
Both Shahid and Sonam kept their cool after the incident and even urged to complete the shoot (with a new dupatta of course). Well, we can see two co-stars turn into great friends, if not anything more!!
Meanwhile, you check out gorgeous Sonam on the cover of Marie Claire Magazine’s Indian Edition for the month of June 2011 on its 5th Anniversary Issue…….

Mallika Sherawat as ‘Shalu’ copies ‘Munni’ and ‘Sheila’

‘Munni’ and ‘Sheila’ have created such milestones in the field of item number that Mallika Sherawat’s new item number ‘Shalu ke thumke’ featuring in the forthcoming film ‘Bin Bulaye Baraati’ has literally copied the steps from the two hit item numbers.
Choreographer Ganesh Acharya justifies this action by saying that since the song has a line which says ‘Munni bhi maani aur Sheila bhi maani, Shalu ke thumke ki duniya deewani’, the film’s team pressurized that the trademark dance steps from the two songs should reflect in Mallika’s moves and Ganesh’s objections were quickly shouted down.
Producer Prakash Jaju also confirmed Acharya’s statement saying, “It was Anand Raj Anand’s idea, and we liked it. We offered Mallika a choice of two item songs and she chose this one. We offered the other one to Shweta Tiwari.”
However Farah Khan seems cool about all this controversy and brushes off this entire hullaboo by saying, “I haven’t seen it. Maybe they are just spoofing the Sheila and Munni steps.”

Sonam Kapoor chosen as the face of India International Jewellery Week

The second edition of the India International Jewellery Week (IIJW) is going to be held from July 31 to Aug 4 and actress Sonam Kapoor has been chosen as the face of this event which is being organized by the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC). Sonam will open the event by walking the ramp on the inaugural day.
“It’s not only an honor but a privilege to be the face of this magnanimous event. This aims at promoting Indian talent on a global platform. I’m glad that GJEPC has taken the initiative of placing India on the global arena of designer jewellery. I’m looking forward to seeing some exemplary talent at the IIJW this year,” an all elated Sonam said.
GJEPC chairman Rajiv Jain explained that Sonam Kapoor has been chosen as the brand ambassador of the event because she exudes the values of glamour, luxury yet rooted in Indian culture and offers perfect brand fit.
The event will be held at the Grand Hyatt and the key participants of this year’s edition include Gitanjali Gems, Anmol Jewellers, Amrapali Jewels Pvt. Ltd, Tanishq, Rosily Paul creations, Divya Ahuja and Kashi Jewellers among others.

Vidya Balan as Silk Smitha in ‘Dirty Picture’

Throughout her career, Vidya Balan has been known for playing a variety of challenging roles with ease and poise. Even playing the character of South siren Silk Smith for director Milan Luthria’s film Dirty Picture came as a challenge for Vidya because the role is completely is contrast to what she is in real life- simple, subdued and elegant. However, Vidya has no qualms about it as she feels that’s where the whole challenge lies. Vidya says she is inspired from the Hollywood actress Bette Davis who played an interesting variety of roles in her acting career.
The first look of the film is out and shows Vidya dressed in a in the low-cut tie-up blouse, the floral skirt, the hair and the inviting as she poses coquettishly nibbling her thumbnail.
Vidya hasn’t watched many movies of Silk Smitha, but she has seen her in ‘Sadma’ and a few raunchy songs as well.

Is Karthika gearing up for Bollywood?

Karthika, daughter of yesteryear actress Radha, made her dream Kollywood debut with superhit Tamil thriller ‘Ko’ which has Jiiva playing the lead. Directed by K V Anand, the movie went on to set the cash registers ringing at the box office and was even dubbed in telugu as Rangam and witnessed bumper opening.
The latest buzz is that the the Khiladi Akshay Kumar saw the film and liked it so much that he has decided to remake the film in Hindi. Sources even have it that Bollywood remake rights for the Tamil thriller Ko may just be snapped up for Rs one crore!
When Radha heard the news, she went forward to meet Akshay and has requested him to let Karthika enact her role as a feisty journalist. Apparently, Akshay Kumar has agreed to do so. So, do we see another South siren making her entry in the tinsel town?

Visitors and media not allowed on the sets of ‘Heroine’

Post marriage Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has been going slow and comfortably with her career in Bollywood. She had last faced camera nine months back for Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s ‘Guzaarish’ and is now concentrating fully on her upcoming flick ‘Heroine’.
The movie is being made by Madhur Bhandarkar who is known for the realistic touch in his flicks. ‘Heroine’ being an intense contemporary drama, rumors are already rife that the film draws references from the lives of many Bollywood stars. As such, Madhur wants to keep the script of his film under tight wraps and has banned all visitors from the sets. The producers and Madhur have not only signed a non disclosure contract with everyone but they have also banned mobile phones from the sets. There will be as many as 15 to 17 security guards stationed on the sets.
The movie has the Bachchan bahu play a superstar whose career is on a decline.

Ajay Devgan back into action with Rohit Shetty’s ‘Singham’

Ajay Devgan made his debut in Bollywood as an action star in ‘Phool Aur Kaante’ and gave quite a few superhits in action films. However, slowly he shifted his genre and switched over to excel in comedies with box office hits like Golmaal series, Atithi Tum Kab Jaoge? and Dil Toh Baccha Hai Ji.
Now, after eight years, Devgan is back into action with the role of a rural cop in Rohit Shetty’s ‘Singham’ which promises to be a raw hardcore action packed drama.
“It’s a film about men. Singham will mark the return of hardcore raw action to the cinemas with a lot of dialogue-baazi and machismo. It should sock a punch; it will connect to the man on the street because of its simple narrative and terrific action,” reveals Devgan.
Devgan feels that times may have changed but action remain the same as ever. “We believe that it is not changing. I don’t think so. Look at the last 3-4 films that have released. Dabbang and Ghajini action is the same we used to do before 15 years. Even Wanted. I think we are trying to be over intelligent by trying to make different films. All the audience wants is entertainment. Look at Robot. It’s entertainment. Singham is hardcore entertainment; it has humor, drama and hardcore action.”
However, personally he prefers comedy to action and some of his all time favorites are classics like are Golmaal (the classic), Jaane Bhi Do Yaaron and Chupke Chupke.

Katrina Kaif voted the FHM’s sexiest woman for the third time

The world’s largest men’s lifestyle magazine conducted the FHM 100 Sexiest Women Poll and Katrina Kaif topped it on the basis of online polls and SMS with over 35,000 entries being cast this year. This is the third time Kats wins this title by FHM after the same in 2008 and 2009.
“Katrina’s average is higher than Sachin Tendulkar’s and she replaces Deepika Padukone who won the crown in 2010,” says Kabeer Sharma, executive director, FHM, India, adding, ‘We’d love to say 2011 was a close contest…only ‘Sheila’ made sure it was far from- A feat that becomes even more significant because no woman in the world across all 28 editions of FHM has ever won the sexiest woman in the World title three times in the last 17 years that we’ve been making the list.’
However, Katrina takes all this in stride and says, “If somebody is graciously giving me something why should I refuse it. When I grow old, I would like to tell my grand children about the titles I won.”
Well, we are sure here that keeping a track of all the titles and honors the beautiful lady accumulates by then would be a Herculean task!!

M.F.Hussain’s muses express their grief over his demise

Bollywood grieves deeply at the loss of the genius in the world of art, M.F.Hussain who passed away in London yesterday away from his motherland. Bollywood actresses had always been an inspiration for this great painter and some of his muses were Madhuri Dixit, Tabu, Amrita Rao and Vidya Balan. All of them were extremely shocked at his death.
Madhuri Dixit was one of the favorite muses of the painter who even acted under his direction for his ambitious directorial debut Gaja Gamini. Madhuri expressed her grief saying, “It’s such a shocking news. I still can’t believe that a person who was always so full of life is no more. God bless his soul.”
“It’s a very sad day for me today… His paintings not only came from his heart, but also from the knowledge about various topics,” she told a TV news channel.
Vidya Balan also said that Hussain Saab’s demise was a great loss for the country and the art world. She said, “What a celebration of life, colour and glory. Having said that, however long a life, for an artist as great as him, it still seems short… May his soul rest in peace,” said Vidya, adding that she will ‘always cherish the fact that he wanted to make a film with me!’
Actress Amrita Rao had recently met the painter at his London home recently. “I am totally in shock. He simply loved life. Each time that we have chatted off late I have been telling him that he’s growing younger and more energetic. In fact he even shared his plans to host a rather big show to exhibit all his works on Indian cinema to celebrate him turning 100. He was so full of life that I can still not believe that he’s no more.”
“Husainji was the perfect host and although his health was a little down, his spirits were as always like that of a youngster. That’s how he’d want us to remember him as — an artist who lived his life to the fullest and inspired others to do so too!” she added.
Our team of Bollywood stars expresses deep sorrow and grief at the loss of this great soul!!

Priyanka Chopra stands by her brother on his graduation

Priyanka Chopra may be at the peak of her career but the girl definitely knows how to values her family ties. So, the actress put on her professional commitments to a hold for a while and flew off on Wednesday night to attend her younger brother, Siddharth’s graduation in Switzerland. Siddharth, who is seven years younger to Priyanka, was studying a culinary course in a university near Geneva. PC’s this trip also surprised Siddharth, as he too never expected his sis would visit him on this special day. Sid’s dream is to become a master chef. PC advises him to believe in his dreams and follow them.
Having done her duty as a sister, PC returned to Mumbai and attended a TV channel’s promotional event in the night. She will now resume shooting for Kunal Kohli’s next, Janam Janam Ka Saath Hai Hamara Tumhara, which has Shahid Kapoor as her co-star.

Angela Johnson to make her debut with ‘Kya Kool Hai Hum 2′?

Angela Johnson had been more in news for her alleged linkup with Ranbir Kappor than her professional goings. The swimsuit calendar girl auditioned for ‘Dhoom 3’ without success but now she can boast of her first Bollywood project, Kya Kool Hai Hum 2 which happens to be the sequel to the Sangeeth Sivan directed 2005 film Kya Kool Hai Hum.
She will play the second female lead to this Ekta Kapoor’s project to be directed by Sachin Yardi. Riteish Deshmukh, one of the two leading actors in the first, has agreed to the project and Bengali bombshell Bipasha Basu has been finalized for the first female lead.
However, Angela’s publicist chooses to deny the story and say, “There’s no truth in it.”
When contacted Tanuj Garg, CEO, Balaji Telefilms said, “The leading ladies haven’t been cast yet. We are in conversation with various options and will make a formal announcement once we are ready.”

Preity Zinta turns into a producer

After dishing out some hit flicks, Preity Zinta confidently shifted from being a Bollywood actress to a successful businesswoman as an owner of IPL team Kings XI Punjab. Now, she is back into some action in the tinsel town though not as an actress but as a producer. She has launched her own production banner, PZNZ Media.
Her first flick will be a romantic comedy under the direction of Prem Soni. When asked why she chose Soni as her director when his last flick ‘Main Aur Mrs Khanna’ bombed at the box office, Preity clarifies, “I’d rather work with someone who’s fallen down hard than someone who’s at the top because he’s driven to go out there and prove a point to the world. Even Imtiaz Ali’s first film, Socha Na Tha, wasn’t a blockbuster but today everyone wants to work with him.”
The actress has set a mediocre budget for the movie and is yet to finalize the cast of the film which will mostly be shot abroad. Preity is thoroughly happy and confident about her move and says, “It’s an instinct for choosing the right movie that’d got me where I am today,” she points out. Of course, after that I took a course at the Harvard Business School, asked a million questions and gave two years to the game. Film is my core competence and it should be easier focusing on it.”
“Suddenly, the sky is bluer, the birds are singing and life is so cool,” Chirps the chirpy actress!!

Jacqueline Fernandez oozing sensuality in the June issue of ‘Maxim’

With the promos of ‘Murder 2’ doing rounds on the small screen, Jacqueline Fernandez seems to have sprung back into limelight once again for her sensuous moves and looks. She seems to have caught so much of attention that rumors are doing rounds that Prachi Desai feels insecure of her and is uncomfortable sharing space with her.
Prachi stars in Bhatt camps ‘Informer’ along with Emraan Hashmi and Randeep Hooda, while Jacqueline Fernandez has been chosen as the lead in their ‘Raaz 3’. However, Prachi failed to show up at the event announcing this two film deal and the reason for her absence is being predicted as her insecurity with Fernandez’s rising quotient.
Kunal Deshmukh, who will direct her in ‘Informer’ explained her absence saying, “She did manage to come but was late and the press had left by then. She was shooting for Shrishti Behl’s film with John Abraham and had told us that it would be difficult for her to make it to the event. We were hoping that she could come.”
Jacqueline features on the cover of the June issue of ‘Maxim’. In the inside pages, Jacqueline defines ‘sexy’ as “Someone who mystifies, keeps you wondering and wanting more. Intelligence, mixed with right attitude, confidence and energy.” Jacqueline said.
When asked what in a man turns her on, Jacqueline Fernandez said: “A quiet mysterious intelligence and a comfort and confidence that is natural and real….Be a gentleman and relax. Guys who try too hard get caught out.”
Check out Jacqueline in her sensuous best in ‘Maxim’………….

Aishwarya Rai turns heads at Prix De Diane horse Race

When it comes to beauty, elegance and style, there are few women who can compete with Bachchan Bahu and sure enough, the former Miss World drew attention and admiring glances at the 162nd edition of the Prix de Diane horse race in Chantilly, north of Paris, on Sunday. The actress is the brand ambassador of the Swiss watch company Longines and she is currently in France for its events along with her mother Vrinda.
Aishwarya opted for a pale pink ensemble with an elaborate hat. Since the start of the Prix de Diane in 1843, the hat has evolved as an essential dress code for the race which is now famous for its guests turning up with eccentric headgear.
Longines sponsored this race for the first time and chose Aishwarya to give away the winner’s trophy. The trophy was presented to German Dietrich Von Boetticher, and his son Alexandre, owners of Golden Lilac, the filly that won the race.

Ajay Devgan decides to call it off with Kangna Ranaut

Ajay Devgan and Kangna Ranaut developed a close compatibility with each other on the professional and personal levels during their shooting of ‘Once Upon a Time in Mumbai’, so much so that Ajay emphasized on repeatin Kangna for the sequel of the blockbuster even when his friend Rohit Shetty wanted Kareena Kapoor or a fresh face for the female lead in the film.
However, for reasons unknown Devgan has now decided to stay away from Ranaut and his decision is apparent from his cold behaviour towards her on the sets of ‘Tezz’ in London. Though professionally, everything seems to be in sync, the actors are not even talking to each other on a personal level anymore. Sources indicate that Ajay was clearly avoiding Kangna while she shot for her concluding portions in Tezz.
What we are waiting for is to see whether the two sign any other project together in the future because Kangna had already told Mumbai Mirror in an interview (February 2, 2011), “Ajay and I are thinking of not doing films together for two-three years. We are taking a break from each other professionally. That’s how Ajay also feels.”

Karsima Kapoor making her comeback with a 3D thriller

Karisma Kapoor was at the top of her career when she married industrialist Sanjay Kapoor in 2003. Though she immersed herself completely into her family and children Samaira and Kiaan, she never really broke her link with camera all thanks to various endorsements she has been associated with.
Time and again, she received offers for various films but finally she has given her nod to Vikram Bhatt’s next — Dangerous Ishq, an erotic thriller in 3-D. It may be mentioned here that Vikram’s last film Haunted 3-D did fairly well at the box office.
Vikram says, “When I first gave Karisma a narration, she loved the story and the script. It’s a woman-centric film and she plays the main character. Dangerous Ishq is a thriller based on past-life regression. We start shooting in September in Rajasthan.”
Karisma, too, is excited about the flick and says, “It’s a role I haven’t done before. The script is very interesting and working in the 3-D format will be a new experience for me,” she says.

John Abraham reshoots portions of Simi Garewal’s India’s Most Desiarble

Simi Garewal is back into limelight with her next show ‘Indias Most Desiarble’. Simi is known to make her guests feels at ease and get candid about things which they would normally not speak about.
It so happened that John Abraham, who is known to weigh his words quite well before speaking about anything, spoke about his ex Bipasha Basu in his episode. Also, his episode did not stand up in comparison to other ones and so the makers decided to re-shoot this episode to add some spark to it.
John Abraham was very sporting about it and so he landed up in Film City this Saturday despite heavy showers. The re shoot has been done in such a way that viewers will not even notice that it has not been shot at a stretch but after a big gap.
Simi explains, “Yes, it was kind enough of John to shoot again with us. He was the first guest on the show. It was like a pilot episode. After watching it we felt the lights needed to be redone as well as some portions of the sets. To maintain the continuity we had to reshoot. He’s such a sweetheart and willingly agreed to do the portions again.”
She adds, “As John’s episode will be telecast at a later date, we had to resort to the reshooting, otherwise it would stand out among the rest of the episodes for the continuity reasons.”