Bollywood News

Rahul fails to enthuse

2009-04-08T19:11:00.000-07:00

Contrary to expectations, the much-publicised Rahul Gandhi’s election rallies in the district today proved to be a damp squib.

Though the Congress spared no efforts to mobilise people in big numbers, Rahul could not hold their attention. This was because the speech glaringly lacked force.

The Congress star campaigner addressed two meetings, one in the port city and the other at Anakapalle but as he was not very aggressive in underscoring the points he wanted to make and could not hold the attention of the audience for long. The young leader did not bother to focus on issues that related to the State or city but spoke at length on the Congress and its policies without any specifics. Though his interpreter and Rajahmundry MP Vundavalli Arunkumar tried his best to infuse vitality into the content, it did not do the trick.

He told the audience that people in rural India held the key to formation of a good democratic government and therefore they should take active interest in exercising their franchise and support the Congress. ``The Congress was born for the welfare of the masses in rural areas. India’s development could be seen only in rural areas and the people in villages cherished and protected the nation’s tradition and culture,’’ he pointed out.

“I entered politics to help the poor. Irrespective of caste, religion and region, I will always work for empowerment of the poor who are the real strength of the nation. The BJP criticised me when I took a minister from the UK to rural areas in Uttar Pradesh to show him the strength of India. The Congress alone stands for the poor,’’ he said.

“The disadvantage of the poor is that they would not get as many opportunities as those who live in the urban areas for growth. The Congress has been trying to create equal opportunities for the poor. To perpetuate this, I entered public life,’’ he claimed. Terming D Purandeswari, who is contesting from the Visakhapatnam Lok sabha constituency on Congress candidate, as a representative of the young blood, Rahul appealed to the gathering to vote her.

On Google pitch, young voters are not bowled over by celebrities

2009-04-08T19:07:00.000-07:00

Considering that more than 40 per cent voters in India are youth, Google India has launched an official community, The Voice of Youth, on its social networking site Orkut. The community moderators have put up polls on various election-related topics, which are open till April 14. The web portal is www.orkut.co.in/loksabha2009.

The real time poll results have already started showing interesting results. For instance, nearly 75 per cent of voters said yes to “Would you like to canvas for a party of your choice?”. Another question, “Are you influenced to vote when a celebrity joins a political party?”, has 74 per cent voters saying no.

Vihari Komaragiri, product manager, Google India, said, “this is for the first time Google has created an official community for a social event. The idea came up among a few Orkut team members and it was then we decided to launch an official platform where youth can voice their opinion.” He said this is also the first time when the community site is being treated as an independent portal where non-Orkut members can also cast their vote.

Nano’s economy appeal draws car owners too

2009-04-08T11:10:00.000-07:00

Despite expectations that only motorcycle and scooter owners would upgrade to Tata Motors Ltd’s Nano small car, the vehicle is also attracting attention from those who already own bigger cars.

Pune builder Vinod Sanghvi is one such. He owns a Honda City, a Tata Indigo and a Maruti 800, but has still bought two application forms to book the Nano—one for himself and the other for his wife.

“What sold me the car was its economies—mileage and the initial purchasing cost—and the fact that it is roomy despite being such a small vehicle,” said Sanghvi, 52, who plans to use the bigger cars only to travel out of town or for something special in the evenings.

At Mumbai’s High Street Phoenix Mills, where the Nano was on display, Vishwas and Carolina, senior consultants at a multinational firm, were buying their application form at Croma, a Tata group-owned electronics retail chain.

“It’s easily manoeuvrable and easy to park. I think it looks cool and resembles the BMW Smart,” said Carolina. The couple, who declined to give their last name, already own a Skoda Octavia sedan.

Tata Motors announced the commercial launch of the Nano on 23 March. Applications went on sale on 1 April. Bookings for the car begin on Thursday and sales in July. Applications will be accepted till 25 April and Tata Motors will announce allotments by lottery of the first 100,000 cars within 60 days after bookings close.

While analysts are unwilling to hazard a guess on the total number of bookings as not everyone buying the form may end up buying the car, they believe that one of the reasons behind the subdued response from two-wheeler owners could be the cost of ownership.

Wisden remains a timeless gem in today's digital age

2009-04-08T10:58:00.000-07:00

Every January, my uncle Roderick comes to visit. Each time he arrives noticeably thicker around the middle, sporting the same old garish mustard-yellow polo shirt. For the next seven days at least he takes up most of my time, as well as an entirely unreasonable amount of living space, while he drinks me out of house and home. He is 47 and has lived in a perpetual state of mid-life crisis for the last decade, constantly fretting that his long-time companion, Debbie, "is about to leave me again".

Uncle Roderick, like the Wisden Almanack, is one of the perennials by which I measure my year. To me the two seem more than a little similar. Wisden, now aged 146, arrives each April looking familiar but fatter, and proceeds to consume all my available time, a large chunk of shelf space, and no little expense (the 2009 edition costs £45). And like my uncle, over the last ten years Wisden has been fretting a little about its place in the world.

The amount of cricket being played has grown massively, but Wisden cannot grow with it. The internet is unfettered by space restrictions. Cricinfo has become cricket's international archive. For statistics and match reports especially it is able to provide a comprehensiveness which a book, even one that is 1,680 pages, is unable to match. The Almanack has been forced to adapt, and it has done so with more success than my uncle.

More cricket matches don't just mean more results and statistics, but also more stories. The sport has rarely featured on the frontpages as much as it has in the past 12 months. The Indian Premier League, the Stanford fiasco, the decline of Australia, the sacking of both Kevin Pietersen andPeter Moores, the Mumbai terror attacks, Michael Vaughan's tear-soaked resignation. It is in tackling these issues that the Almanack thrives, the only exception being its coverage of the final chapters of the Stanford affair, which presumably broke too late in the publishing process to feature much.

It is in the Almanack, away from the white-heat of the daily presses and the demands of news journalism, that you find the best cricket writing. The writers get the time and space to reflect properly on issues that matter. One of the real gems this year is a piece by Dean Wilson, freed from the Daily Mirror style, on the decline of cricket among Britain's Afro-Caribbean community. Nasser Hussain provides an appreciation of the careers of his contemporaries Mark Ramprakash and Graeme Hick. He is as insightful on the enigma of the former as anybody I've read. Tanya Aldred's diaries of a year in the life of three county cricketers – Darren Maddy, Claude Henderson and Chris Jordan – is an example of ghost writing at its finest, making the day-to-day lives of professional sportsmen seem fascinating and sympathetic.

Giro organisers forced to alter 10th stage

2009-04-08T10:54:00.000-07:00

The 10th stage of May's Giro d'Italia has been altered because of planning difficulties in the Alps, organisers said in a statement on Wednesday.

The Cuneo-Pinerolo stage on May 19, a favourite of riders, will now take place on the Italian side of the Alps only after it was decided the original route was too remote and French radio communication could not be assured.

Organisers, who hope Lance Amstrong will recover from a broken collarbone in time to compete, also said 21 teams had been invited to take part in the 100th edition of the race with Barloworld the last to secure its place.

Younis disappointed at missing duel with Ponting

2009-04-08T10:50:00.000-07:00

Pakistan skipper Younis Khan is disappointed that Ricky Ponting has been rested for their up coming One-day series as 'duel' with him would have tested his leadership skills better.

"I was looking forward to playing against Ponting as he is one of top captains in the world while I have just started. The decision by the Australian selectors to rest some of their key players deprives us of playing against the best Australian team but certainly the return of Brett Lee and Andrew Symonds will strengthen their squad," Younis said.

"I rate Pointing as one of the finest captains in the world today and certainly it would have been a great duel with him," Younis said.

Younis refused to believe that Australia's recent defeats make them a vulnerable side.

"I do not think we can easily win this series just because they have lost recently to India and South Africa. Those defeats were not surprising since they have dominated international cricket for so long and their bad patch was bound to come and don't forget they have lost some great players," he contended.

Australian selectors on Wednesday rested Ponting, Mitchell Johnson and Mike Hussey for the One-day series ahead of their Ashes tour to England and handed the captaincy to Michael Clarke while recalling Lee and Symonds.

Multiple-captain theory is interesting, says Kaif

2009-04-08T10:46:00.000-07:00

India discard Mohammed Kaif has sounded cautious about the much-debated multiple-captaincy theory for IPL T20 second edition proposed by John Buchanan, saying it looked "interesting".

"I don`t want to say much on it except that it looks interesting as things happen quickly in the shortest format of the game. Not a bad theory, but we have to wait and see how it goes," Kaif told reporters here last night before departing with his Rajasthan Royals teammates for South Africa.

Former Australia coach Buchanan, who is managing another IPL team, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), has suggested that he wanted to experiment with this novel concept of multiple captains during the tournament which has been opposed by his team member and former India skipper Sourav Ganguly and another ex-captain Sunil Gavaskar.

KKR`s owner Shah Rukh Khan had said a few days ago that there was nothing wrong in trying out the new concept as the T20 format was in its infancy and the team did not do well while playing in the traditional way vis-a-vis captaincy, with Ganguly being its sole captain and icon player in 2008.

Kaif and other Indian players of Rajasthan Royals, which won the title under captain-coach Shane Warne in the first edition of the cash-rich event, were busy yesterday in promotional events prior to leaving for SA.

The 28-year-old Allahabad-born middle order batsman Kaif, who had lead India to U-19 World Cup win, sounded upbeat about the team`s chances of retaining the title in South Africa though the conditions are different from India.

"It`s a fresh start. Last year we had the bowlers to suit Indian conditions. This time it will be different altogether. We have 10 days to adjust to the bounce in the wickets and are playing two practice games too. It should be enough," said the skipper of the UP Ranji Trophy team.

PCB recommends "cooling period" for ICL players

2009-04-08T10:38:00.000-07:00

Following a dramatic flip-flop by the Pakistan Cricket Board over picking three ICL players in its list of probables for the ICC World Twenty20, a top PCB official told Cricinfo that administrators are considering a "cooling period" ranging between six to 12 months for players who wish to return to national teams from the unauthorised league.

Salim Altaf, PCB's chief operating officer, said that such a cooling period would be on the lines of the ban that was imposed on cricketers who went on rebel tours to South Africa during the Apartheid era. "Of course, the ICC's executive board (it meets in Dubai on April 17-18) will have to take a final decision," he said.

"If you play unauthorised cricket, and then you rescind the contract and want to play for your national side, there may be a recommendation that there should be a cooling period," Altaf said. "It could be six months, could be 12 months. If you remember the days when people were going to play in South Africa, there used to be an automatic ban for two years on anybody who appeared there. So there has been some discussion on having a resolution to have some kind of a cooling period like that."

On Monday, the PCB had named three ICL players - Abdul Razzaq, Imran Nazir and Naved-ul Hasan - in its list of 30 probables, only to replace them the day after. Altaf said Pakistan's national selectors were unaware they needed to get a clearance from the ICC before announcing the team. "I think initially they thought that they can include these players, but subsequently, they were told that we need a prior clearance from the ICC," he said.

Asked whether these three players had cut all ties with the ICL, Altaf said that he has written to Kapil Dev, the chairman of the ICL's board, seeking clarifications on their player contracts. "So far Kapil Dev has not replied," Altaf said.

Welcome to IPL's First Ladies Club

2009-04-08T10:31:00.000-07:00

As the excitement builds up towards season two of the IPL, what could one be looking forward to? Maybe the big sixes. Maybe the cheerleaders. Maybe a dash of controversy. Or maybe the First Ladies Club of the glitzy league that has shattered the myth that cricket is an all-men club.

She has only jumped onto the IPL bandwagon this year, but Shilpa Shetty is making an appearance in the arc-lights quite often, dancing to the tunes of a new video one day and unveiling the new outfit for the Rajasthan Royals on the other, increasingly comfortable talking cricket.

"I only want to wish the players a safe journey and hope they play well and put their best foot forward," she says.

Shilpa Shetty 's Bollywood rival Preity Zinta is now a veteran at talking cricket. The owner of Kings XI Punjab is quite a 'hands on' boss as was seen last year. But she too can make quite a song and dance about her boys. So the African Safari this year seems to agree with her.

"Last year it was fantastic to see everyone get together for the first time," Zinta says. "I think this time it's only going to be bigger, better and stronger because everyone knows each other now and it's a lot of fun."

Golden-hearted Asin saves kid’s life; injures both hands

2009-04-08T10:21:00.000-07:00

Asin’s career is on a steep rise, but the golden heart Southern beauty does not let it go to her head. In a recent incident, she proved that behind that beautiful and elegant exterior, lies a noble heart, too.

Passing by in her car, the Bollywood star saw a kid about to come in the way of speeding cars. Unmindful of herself, she jumped and managed to shove the lucky little boy out of danger. However, in the process she fell and found her hands scraped and a little hurt. Having done her good-deed, she sped off.

Next morning Asin woke up with a swollen pair of hands and in acute pain. Unable to move her hands, she was rushed to Lilavati Hospital, Bandra, where the doctors diagnosed torn ligaments in both her hands.

“I woke up in the most acute pain. I couldn`t move either of my hands, not even to brush my teeth! They had gone numb. My biceps and triceps got affected and my hands had swollen to the sizes of balloons,” Asin said with a terrified laugh.

The stoic girl’s story continues. She said to a news website, “Luckily, I didn`t have to wear bandages, so I could attend the Fashion Week for Manish Malhotra and do my best to cover up the injury. To my surprise, no-one noticed."

Doctor Kareena Kapoor hates men!

2009-04-08T10:20:00.000-07:00

Kareena Kapoor hates men and gives advice to women on how to do the same! She loves to wear stylish international fashion and look as gorgeous as a supermodel. As she passes she definitely steals every man’s heart and thus even knows the way to cure his ailment, as she is a doctor too! Phew! Now if you think this is some trivia on Kareena Kapoor and her real life behaviour then just calm down. We only described Bebo’s Preity Zinta-esque role from her film Kambakht Ishq. Kareena who plays a supermodel in the film will also portray the role of a doctor! “Kareena has a dual career in the film. She is a supermodel and a doctor, who juggles both careers”, revealed a unit hand of the highly awaited film. Preity Zinta did the same in Salaam Namaste. Let’s see which Kareena wins our hearts – The Doctor or the supermodel!

Priyanka Denies The Humour Of Her Link-Up With Shahid

2009-04-08T10:18:00.001-07:00

Priyanka Chopra is ready with her two upcomng movies Kaminey and What’s Your Rashee

.Kaminey is with Shahid Kapoor And What’s Your Rashee is with Harman Baweja.After the

breakoff with Harman Baweja what making priyanka life difficult is link up rumour of her

with her co-star.Recently Priyanka squashes rumors of a special friendship with Shahid

Kpaoor. On record she claims she has no man in her life. “And I don’t miss a personal

life. The high I get at work is unmatchable. Harman? Trust me, I love living with my

parents. They need me now more than ever when my brother is leaving home. Marriage is

scary.”

SRK-Aamir: Our name is Khan

2009-04-08T10:12:00.000-07:00

It doesnt get bigger or better than this.Last evening, when Aamir Khan and Shah Rukh Khan walked in at the head of, what was finally, a unique gathering of the best creative talent the Indian film industry has today, media persons which covered the gamut of options available (radio, print, electronic, web), newbies and hardened professionals, collectively held their breath and gazed.

It has been many many moons since two of our most charismatic and successful actors have been seen on the same platform. In fact, one almost cant remember when was the last time.

Suddenly nothing mattered. Not the gross collections of their last films, not any power list, not the number game. If the occasion were not so serious and dignified one would be tempted to stand up and cheer. But since they were here representing the directors and producers collective forum, The United Producers and Distributors Association forum, to explain their stand in the face-off with multiplex owners, it seemed wiser to just listen as each presented a keynote address. Yash Chopra, Sandeep Bhargava of TV 18, Ronnie Screwvala of UTV, Mukesh Bhatt, distributor Ramesh Sippy and Jyoti Deshpande of Eros, shared the stage along with the two Khans. Even the federation and the

Priyanka Chopra’s kinky fancy: a mass of male gazers!

2009-04-08T10:08:00.000-07:00

Priyanka Chopra is as desirable as hot young girls go, still her single status surprises all. The secret of her singlehood is out – the girl enjoys the mass of male admirers who throng around her. With such a taste, which eligible bachelor has the chance to overthrow that kind of combined appreciation?

Indeed, the fantasy of this lissome lass surpasses all Bollywood-beauties’ wildest dreams. Where Bollywood babes prefer to pretend coy, Priyanka has gone ahead and confessed her taste.

The actress says, "I’m glad a lot of men behold me. There’s no special man to make me feel special. I love the attention I get. Which girl doesn’t? To be considered hot is ... cool!"

Hurman can go lick dust for it is impossible for a guy to make Priyanka experience the high of being appreciated by a gaggle of admirers single-handedly. When the lady herself confesses, what can a solo man say to such a statement?

She even elaborated, "To be called the sexiest, the most desirable, etc in magazine and website polls is very flattering. Beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder and I take it in my stride."

Bipasha finds Ranbir hottest!

2009-04-08T10:00:00.000-07:00

Bipasha Basu recently unveiled the latest Filmfare issue in Mumbai. Following the trend of inviting the cover dominating celeb to unveil their latest issue, Filmfare had Bipasha coming in for a brief appearance. The new issue of Filmfare has Bips striking quiet a raunchy pose on the cover.

While interacting with the media present at the event, Bipasha admitted she found Ranbir Kapoor hottest amongst Bollywood men. Well we wonder if she has stopped finding boyfriend John Abraham (who is touted as the hottest hunk of B-town) hot anymore! Just few days back another hottie to proclaim Ranbir Kapoor very hot was Katrina Kaif. After knowing this, don't know what was Ranbir's reaction to it, but we can surely imagine Salman Khan tearing his hair out.

If one recalls than quite sometime back when BACHNA AE HASEENO was about to hit the screens Ranbir had claimed Bipasha as the sexiest female of B-town despite of having a gorgeous girlfriend Deepika and recently in one of the interviews Ranbir declared Katrina as the hot co-star. No wonder why these damsels are going gaga over Ranbir

Well this guy knows how to charm his haseenas! Now we have to say Bachna Ae Haseeno...

Kelly and fiancé Luke engage in a beach love romp

2009-04-08T09:54:00.000-07:00

Kelly Osbourne and her Brit supermodel fiancé Luke Worrall might have snubbed marriage queries but they sure seem to be enjoying post martial bliss to the hilt.

Recently the bubbly singer, who had successfully completed her third stint in rehab to battle drug addiction, was seen frolicking with her beau in nothing but a teeny-weeny black swimsuit.

The sassy crooner looked scintillating as she tantalized her man with erotic poses in the exotic locales of Miami.

After treating vacationers with their saucy pool intimate session, the lovesome duo took the beachgoers by surprise this time round.

Sexy Helena Christensen soaks up ‘St Barts sun’ in purple bikini

2009-04-08T09:51:00.000-07:00

Even after entering the 40 age bracket, former supermodel Helena Christensen looks half her age, thanks to her sultry figure.

The Victoria’s Secret beauty was spotted showing off her well-toned body in a skimpy purple bikini while enjoying a vacation in St Barts, reports The Sun.

Christensen was joined by her son Mingus and U2`s BONO, his wife Ali Hewson and their two children.

The group later hit a local restaurant for a post-sunbathing bite.

All’s well between Hrithik, Suzanne

2009-04-08T09:47:00.000-07:00

Everything is fine in Hrithik Roshan and Suzanne Khan's paradise. Their marriage is safe and the rumors of their splitting has been declared wrong by Hrithik Roshan. To stop the media on spreading any more news of their break up, Hrithik and Suzanne has made an open clarification. Reacting to the news of their splitting, Hrithik laughed and remarked, “It is too funny! Yes Sussanne shifted out with the kids 2 days ago and I was to join her on my return as there is a white ant treatment going on in my house and a section of my floor is being renovated. I am here right now having picnic with my kids and my in laws.” Hrithik’s closeness with his ‘Kites’ co-star Barbara Mori is considered to be the main cause of their differences. Hrithik not only gets cozy with Barabara on-screen but off-screen too he gelled quite well with her and devoted maximum time to Barbara while her staying in India. When Hrithik learned that Suzanne has moved out of the house with his two kids, he rushed to his in-laws house from the airport and both reconciled at Suzanne’s parents place.

Hugh Jackman caught naked - in ‘Wolverine’ pictures leak!

2009-04-08T09:46:00.000-07:00

Yummy-bodied mutant Hugh Jackman is ‘hot’ these days. Besides those ‘worth-falling-for’ muscles, the heat has also gone to the Hollywood actor’s head these days. The uncut stills of his upcoming ‘Wolverine’ flick have been leaked online, and the whole world has caught the hot hunk – naked!

Though garnering unimaginable publicity for his flick, the leak has left Jackman fuming. The leak has hit the web a month before the release of the film, and Jackman is not enjoying the ‘exposure’ the least bit.

Even if left fuming, he has become a treat for his fans as well as aesthetes who can moon over his muscled callipygian back.

Lisa Ray turns lesbian

2009-04-08T09:43:00.000-07:00

Lisa Ray who is best remembered for the Oscar nominee Deepa Mehta’s Oscar is again hitting the headlines for her lesbian role in ‘The World Unseen’ and ‘I Can’t Think Straight’. Both the films are directed by the same director Shamim Sarif. In both the films the lead characters are the same, Lisa Ray and Anglo babe, Sheetal Seth.

Actor Parvin Dabas, who plays Omar Lisa Ray's character, Miriam's husband in ‘The World Unseen’, talks a bit about the film. He says, "It was set in during a time when apartheid was still legal in South Africa." He adds that he was sold on the script, story and setting. "This film (The World Unseen)," he says, "is more about the times it is set in, rather than about its sexual theme." The two films have a restricted release in the US in November 2008, ‘I Can't Think Straight’ released in the UK on April 3. Lisa Ray always involved in controversial film and this time also she is yet again in another contentious role.

Akshay, Twinkle will be arrested shortly

2009-04-08T09:41:00.000-07:00

Akshay Kumar may have to pay a heavy price for his unbuttoning act at the Lakme fashion week. He along with his wife Twinkle and the organizers of LFW will be arrested shortly in response to the complained registered by social activist, Anil Nair. According to Arvind Mahabdi, ACP, “We’ll make the arrests soon and then take their statements.” The police is yet to send orders to the pair. The spokesperson of Akshay, Sanchita said, “We’ll respond when the police approach us.” However the couple is in the safe side as the offence is bailable and after three months of imprisonment, they may be released on bail. On April 13, the faith of Akki and Twinkle will be decided. A case has been filed against them in the Meerut police station.

I`m not pregnant, says Malaika Arora

2009-04-08T09:36:00.000-07:00

Malaika Arora Khan, whose svelte figure make men go weak in knees, was recently spotted in Lakme Fashion Week with a little bump on her otherwise taut waist thereby churning pregnancy rumours.

In a recent television interview, when enquired about the baby rumours, Malaika Arora Khan denied pregnancy and said, "I think it was falsely reported, I don`t know why. But I`m not pregnant."

Malaika added, "I eat fried foods, I eat sweets, I eat everything, but I know my limitations and I know when to stop and I know when I have to hit the gym. When I have to be a certain way, It`s only mind over matter."

Perhaps the cute bump was just the result of some binge-eating!

Akshay completes flop hat-trick

2009-04-08T09:33:00.000-07:00

Is Akshay Kumar losing his Midas touch? With his latest release 8x10 Tasveer he has delivered a big turkey at the box office third time in a row. His Jumboand Chandni Chowk To China had suffered a bad fate at the box office recently and the dismal opening and pathetic opening weekend collections suggest audience doesn’t seem to be very excited anymore with an Akshay Kumar film.

Akshay had genuinely tried to change tracks from nonsensical comedies to more meaningful roles in serious cinema and his first step towards it was his Nagesh Kukunoor film. Though Akshay has given it his all to the film, Nagesh has let him down in the writing and direction department. Even hardcore Akki fans have stayed away from this mind numbing flick.

The film has been beaten at the box office in Mumbai by a Marathi film Me Shivaji Raje Bhosale Boltoy starring Sachin Khedekar in the lead role. Even the Hollywood action thriller Fast and Furious 4 has taken a flying start at multiplexes.

Tasveer opened very poorly at single screens to 20-25% collections and in multiplexes at 40% on Friday. The weekend instead of seeing a rise saw a massive fall in collections. The Rs.40 crore budgeted film has grossed a mere Rs.5 crore from its first three days. Which means it is next to impossible for the film to recover anything beyond 10 crore in the long run.

Jagjit feels 'Jai Ho' didn't deserve an Oscar

2009-04-08T09:31:00.000-07:00

A R Rahman may have impressed the entire globe with his Oscar winning song 'Jai Ho' from Slumdog Millionaire but he hasn't impressed Ghazal maestro Jagjit Singh for sure. Singh who is known to be of very candid nature said winning an Oscar was a huge achievement but the song for which Rahman won it was overrated. The legendary Ghazal singer said this while releasing his new album titled 'Inteha'

Jagjit added that he could not understand why from political parties to international bands were going gaga over the song as the lyrics did not make much sense. When reminded that the lyrics of the song was penned by his close friend Gulzar he said while working with the renowned lyricist he made sure Gulzar penned lyric that his fans would understand.

Incidentally a few months back Jagjit Singh had questioned Rahman's talent and asked him to compose and sing Ghazals to prove his talent. He had even accused Rahman of copying western tunes and giving them an Indian touch.

Who wants to marry Rakhi Sawant?

2009-04-08T09:19:00.000-07:00

Rakhi Sawanth is getting married! But wait, there's a catch: she hasn't found a groom just yet. And that's where all you eligible bachelors out there come in.

The actress is ready with her new reality show, Rakhi Ka Swayamvara on NDTV Imagine, where men wishing to get married to Rakhi have to register themselves with the show. After selecting the 15 grooms of her choice, Rakhi will stay with them under one roof. During this time, she will give her prospective grooms various tasks to perform. The ones who fail face elimination every week. The final week will see Rakhi marrying the groom of her choice.

Rakhi is also expected to visit the homes of her finalists to find out about their families. Her friends will be involved in the show at a later stage. The show's timings haven't been announced yet but is expected to start after the Indian Premier League matches.Rakhi Sawanth is getting married! But wait, there's a catch: she hasn't found a groom just yet. And that's where all you eligible bachelors out there come in.

Kareena Shahid Kiss

2009-04-04T11:18:00.000-07:00

Kareena Shahid Kiss

Katrina Kaif Likes Doing Bold and Hot Scenes in Films

2009-04-04T11:10:00.000-07:00

Katrina Kaif Likes Doing Bold and Hot Scenes in Films

Leave me alone:AR Rahmaan

2009-04-04T11:02:00.000-07:00

"I'd just like to retreat in my cave for a while," Rahman told IANS.

After winning the two golden statuettes for his compositions in "Slumdog Millionaire", Rahman is inundated with offers.

"The workload is getting heavier. Rahman is inundated with work from both home and abroad. He has taken on one new Bollywood project Abbas Tyrewala's '1-800-Love' and he needs to finish Tony D'Souza's 'Blue' whose background score and the Kylie Minogue item are yet to be completed."

Rahman is also disturbed by the rumours.

"Rahman has to deal with false stories about his global conquests. Like the one that said he had replaced David Beckham in a cellphone ad for a staggering fee," said a close friend of the composer.

Friends feel he's being put under tremendous performance anxiety and this may reflect on the quality of his work.

"Rahman has decided to stay completely away from the public glare for some time. He is currently spending time on the music of Abbas Tyrewala's film. Then he has called Tony D'Souza to Chennai to complete the music of 'Blue'. After that he will quietly leave for London and the US. Under no circumstance will he allow himself to be put under the microscope."

Big B wears the TV tycoon garb

2009-04-04T10:56:00.000-07:00

April 2 marked Amitabh Bachchan’s first day of shoot for Ram Gopal Varma’s Rann. Amitabh plays Harshvarshan Malik, the founder of the first private news channel in India. The entire cast and crew of Rann stood frozen in silence for a very long time after Amitabhs television speech was shot.

According to co-artistes on the sets, Amitabh read and analysed the TV script based on communal riots, before adding his own lines. The speech was originally written by Rohit Banwalikar.

Explaining the situation on the sets after Amitabh finished the shot, Varma said, Mr Bachchan saw and absorbed the dialogues. He loved the emotional plea against violence and spontaneously added his own thoughts to it. The end result was magnificent. Every time I work with him, I feel I am discovering new facets to his personality. This man is unbelievable .

Harshvarshan Maliks character requires Amitabh to bring forth his Hindi oratory skills. Besides possessing the best voice in the business, Mr Bachchans big advantage is that hes equally brilliant with Hindi and English. He has also sharpened his powers of expression through his blog. So now when we shot a sequence where he was supposed to speak on a social issue he just let it flow, said Varma.

Confirming the story, Amitabh said, The speech was strictly for the camera. Im working on the RGV film where I play the owner of channel called 24/7. But public issues No thanks!

IIM Bangalore launches costliest PG programme

2009-04-04T10:46:00.000-07:00

The Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB) on Friday launched its costliest one-year fulltime executive post-graduate programme in management (EPGP 2009-10 ).

The programme, designed for mid-career professionals, costs Rs 19.7 lakh for married individuals , and Rs 18.75 lakh for those who can stay without their family at the campus.

With diversity being a stated objective , the EPGP batch, comprising 73 students, includes participants with varied work experience, regions and background.

The programme focuses on emerging markets such as BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India and China countries) and Africa. An intensive study and analysis of the context of each country will be achieved through experiential study tours in these countries.

Lara: Sexy in a saree

2009-04-04T10:40:00.000-07:00

Naomi Campbell may have won many a Indian heart by walking down the ramp in a saree, but our Indian beauties are equally fond of wearing the six-yard wonder.

While we were busy with the fashion weeks in the capital, actress Lara Dutta, who was in Delhi for business, looked haute in a red saree. Did she choose the saree because it is considered hot by Indian women over all other Western outfits? “But I did not start wearing a saree only now. I wore one when I was crowned Miss Universe. If I had the choice to live in New York, I’d wear the saree to all international events too! It’s been my choice for the longest time ever,” she said. Well Lara, you do look elegant in the red drape.

And what is keeping her busy, why did she leave the city without making an appearance at any of the fashion weeks? “I am very busy with my film Blue. I’ve been quite tied up with it and took out a day to especially come and be a part of an event in the capital because I like and know the people here,” she said.

Raghav’s raga

2009-04-04T10:31:00.000-07:00

He has paired up with our Shruti Haasan for a Hindi music video, Ho Jaane Do. Talking excitedly about the album, he says, “The album released on April 1 and the video was on air on TV channels even before.” Interestingly, this album is also a part of an ad campaign for a brand of ice cream. “Making this video was a different ball game altogether. I have been working on the concept of Ho Jaane Do for some time. Since the product of my campaign was targeted at the youth, I wanted to make sure my video was peppy and energetic,” he says.

So, what’s this album all about? “It’s about a guy, who is very shy to approach the girl he likes. He tries to talk to her in the college canteen, but feels his legs rooted to the ground,” he says and adds, “The situation in the video album is not new. But, it has been handled differently and that’s what makes it interesting.”

How did his chemistry with Shruti Haasan work out? “Mind blowing!” he exclaims. “Shruti is a bundle of energy and there was never a dull moment while shooting. She is very talented and we hit it off instantly. She is also into music and it helped me a lot. Our romance on-screen will be cute and youthful.”

Watch Andrew Flintoff hatrick vs west indies

2009-04-04T10:30:00.001-07:00

Andrew Flintoff hatrick vs west indies

India Satyam extends deadline for submitting bids

2009-04-04T10:23:00.000-07:00

ndia's Satyam Computer Services Ltd has extended the deadline for submitting bids for the scandal-tainted software services firm to April 13 as bidders sought more data, board member said on Saturday.

According to the earlier deadline, the bids were to be submitted by April 9.

"It (submission of technical and financial bid) has been extended to April 13 because bidders have met us and asked for additional information and data, which our team is working on. The data will be provided shortly," Deepak Parekh told Reuters.

The bids will be opened on the same day, he added.

The outsourcer, reeling since its founder and chairman quit earlier this year after revealing a massive accounting fraud, is trying to find a buyer to take a 51 percent stake in the company through a bidding process.

On Thursday, Satyam said it has tweaked the bidding process to introduce a second-round open auction to find a new owner if necessary.

Indian engineering conglomerate Larsen & Toubro and mid-sized outsourcer Tech Mahindra are among the suitors, with local media reporting U.S. private equity WL Ross & Co was also in the race.

G20 pledges $1 trillion in funds

2009-04-04T10:22:00.001-07:00

World leaders at the G20 summit in London have agreed on a compromise package of $1 trillion in stimulus cash and more market regulation to combat the worst economic crisis since the 1930s.

The world's richest countries agreed to triple the finances of the International Monetary Fund and also backed new curbs on financial markets in their meeting in London on Thursday.

Gordon Brown, the prime minister of host nation Britain, pledged enhanced supervision for large hedge funds and a crackdown on tax havens in his closing speech at the summit.

"The old Washington consensus is over, today we have reached a new consensus that we will do what is necessary to restore growth and jobs and prevent a crisis such as this from happening again," Brown said.

"We have... agreed additional resources of $1 trillion that are available to the world economy to the IMF and other institutions."

Danish PM to be new head of Nato

2009-04-04T10:19:00.000-07:00

Anders Fogh Rasmussen, the Danish prime minister, has been chosen to be the next secretary-general of Nato.

Turkey had objected to Rasmussen replacing Jaap de Hoop Scheffer, the current leader whose term runs out at the end of July, criticising his handling of a row over cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed, published in Denmark in 2005.

Rasmussen said he was "honoured" by the appointment and that it was a historic day for him and for Denmark.

"I'll do my utmost to live up to the confidence shown to me by my colleagues," he told a press conference in the French city of Strasbourg, hosting the Nato summit marking the military alliance's 60th anniversary.

Zaheer sets up Indian summer

2009-04-04T10:17:00.001-07:00

India were closing in on their first Test series victory in New Zealand since 1968 as they extended their lead to 233 runs after skittling the hosts for just 197.

The visitors, who hold a 1-0 series lead after a 10-wicket victory in the first game in Hamilton, were 51 for one at close on the second day of the third Test after Zaheer Khan's seventh five-wicket haul helped bowl the hosts out for 197 in their first innings.

Zaheer finished with five for 65 from 18 overs in Wellington on Saturday as New Zealand conceded a 182-run lead after they had bowled India out for 379 earlier in the day.

The visitors extended that lead with only the loss of explosive opener Virender Sehwag, who blasted three boundaries in his seven-ball innings of 12.

Sehwag was caught by first slip Ross Taylor when a vicious bouncer from Chris Martin brushed his glove.

Flintoff hat-trick claims series

2009-04-04T10:13:00.000-07:00

England ended their ragged tour of the West Indies on a high when an Andrew Flintoff hat-trick blitzed the hosts and claimed the one-day series 3-2.

Flintoff took five for 19 in his five overs, including the hat-trick in his final over, as England claimed their first one-day series victory in the Caribbean by 26 runs.

It was a well-deserved win on Friday as England bowled with accuracy and discipline after an earlier batting collapse meant they managed only 172 for five from their allotted 29 overs.

"It has been a long hard tour and to come out at the end with something is pretty special," England captain Andrew Strauss told Sky Sports in St Lucia.

"I'm delighted. We played really well and handled the pressure well. We're very happy tonight. "It has been a tough tour. "We would have liked to have won the Test series – we played some good cricket but kept coming out with nothing." England lost that series 1-0. Put in to bat, the tourists started well as they overcame the early loss of Strauss to reach 88-2 after 15 overs on a difficult pitch. But an all-too-familiar middle-order collapse took the steam out of the innings.

Hamilton says sorry for lies

2009-04-04T10:10:00.001-07:00

Lewis Hamilton said suspended McLaren team manager Dave Ryan told him to lie to stewards at last weekend's season-opening Australian Grand Prix.

Describing the subsequent furore as the worst thing he had experienced in his life, Formula One's youngest champion apologised on Friday to the stewards and fans for his behaviour and assured them it would never happen again.

"I was misled," the Briton told an extraordinary press conference at the Malaysian Grand Prix, a day after he was stripped of the third place he had been awarded in Melbourne.

"I'm not a liar, I'm not a dishonest person, I'm a team player. And every time I've been informed to do something, I've done it.

"This time I realise that it was a huge mistake and I am learning from it.

"It has taken a huge toll on me."

The stewards had ruled that Hamilton and the team had been "deliberately misleading" at the first enquiry that demoted Toyota's Jarno Trulli from third to 12th for illegally overtaking Hamilton behind the safety car.

Hamilton had denied being asked by McLaren to let Trulli past, despite team radio and media comments suggesting the opposite.

US unemployment hits 26-year high

2009-04-04T10:05:00.000-07:00

Unemployment in the US has jumped to its highest level since 1983 after employers cut 663,000 jobs and workers' hours to the lowest on record, government figures have shown.

The US Labor Department reported the rate leaped to 8.5 per cent in March and revised its figures for January to show job losses of 741,000, the biggest decline since October 1949.

The economy has shed 5.1 million jobs since the US went into recession in December 2007, with about two thirds of the losses occurring in the last five months, the department said on Friday.

Many experts have said the recession is the worst economic crisis since the 1930s.

The average working week shrank to 33.2 hours from 33.3 hours, which analysts have said could mean lower production and income, damaging the economy further.

Barack Obama, the US president, said the figures were a "stark reminder'' of US
economic woes.

"Obviously, this is hitting the United States hard," Obama said as he addressed the global economic downturn during a joint press conference with Angela Merkel, the German chancellor, ahead of a Nato summit there.

Despite the news, the Dow Jones Industrial Average on Friday closed higher on Friday, climbing 39.51 points, or 0.5 per cent, to 8,017.59 points, its highest close since February 9, following optimism on agreements forged at the G20 summit this week.

Al Jazeera's John Terrett in New York said that despite the poor unemployment data there was a feeling on the markets that the US economy was showing signs of a turnaround after better than expected auto sales and factory order figures.

US rejects Taliban claim for attack

2009-04-04T10:03:00.000-07:00

The US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has dismissed claims made by the Pakistan Taliban that it was responsible for an attack in the state of New York in which a gunman killed 13 people.

Baitullah Mehsud, the leader of the Pakistani Taliban, had claimed in a phone call to Al Jazeera that he had ordered the shooting in which a man, believed to be a Vietnamese immigrant, opened fire at an immigration centre.

Mehsud had said the attack was a direct response to the drone attacks carried out by US forces on Pakistani tribal areas and a second attacker had managed to escape.

But Richard Kolko, an FBI spokesman, said on Saturday: "Based on the evidence, we can firmly discount that claim."

At least 13 people died after the assailant went on a shooting spree at the centre where aid is given to immigrants, before he shot himself dead.

Al Jazeera reporter Kristen Saloomey said the gunman is believed to have been a 42-year-old immigrant who had recently lost his job and was distressed after being teased and humiliated over his poor English language skills.

Ashok Kumar wins SRF Matchplay

2009-04-04T09:50:00.000-07:00

Ashok Kumar ended his two year long title drought after registering an emphatic win over compatriot Rahul Ganapathy in the final of SRF All India.Professional Golf Matchplay Championship at the Delhi Golf Club on Saturday.
Ashok beat Ganapathy by a margin of 5 and 4 to clinch his sixth title on the PGTI and also became richer by Rs 5,20,000.
In the other match, Vivek Bhandari defeated Anura Rohana on the 20th hole to win the playoff for the third place.
Ashok had his nose ahead as he won 10 holes and lost one on the first 18. The five-time PGTI winner started off winning the first, second and fourth holes and then picked up two more wins on the seventh and eighth after losing the sixth to Ganapathy.
After being four up at the turn, the 2006-07 PGTI Order of Merit winner bagged five straight holes from the 13th to the 17th to establish a nine up lead.

IPL's buzz in SA: Cheaper tickets, unlimited fun

2009-04-04T09:44:00.000-07:00

The cheerleaders will be there as will the best players in the world and all the entertainment of a glitzy T20 carnival.

"We will be playing flavour of India and carnival of India all across the tournament," says IPL Chief Lalit Modi.

The tournament may have moved out of India but there will be no shortage of crowds flocking to see the games the double header to kick off the IPL in Cape Town has already been sold out.

IPL bosses have smartly priced tickets at very affordable rates. The lowest ticket is available at just about 70 Indian rupees and the most expensive ticket will set you back by just a shade over 1000 rupees.

"We have taken IPL sto South Africa to ensure that we deliver once in a lifetime experience to the South African fans. Not only the game of cricket will be interesting, but also the bollywood, the entertainment and the local performances that go along with it," says Sundar Raman

And in a bid to maximize commercial time on television, it has been agreed that there will be a 5 minute break after every ten overs allowing the broadcaster to fit in more advertising.

Zaheer's fiver put India in drivers' seat in 3rd Test

2009-04-04T09:33:00.000-07:00

Zaheer Khan produced a devastating spell of seam bowling to take five wickets as India put themselves in the drivers' seat by taking a 182-run first innings lead in the third and final cricket Test against New Zealand here today.

Zaheer capitalised on the bounce at the Basin Reserve track to return with impressive figures of five for 65, his seventh fiver, as the hosts folded up their first innings for a paltry 197 in reply to India's 379.

The Indians were 51 for 1 in their second essay at close of second day to have an overall lead of 233 runs, with Gautam Gambhir (28) and Rahul Dravid (9) at the crease.

It was a disciplined bowling performance by the tourists who kept the pressure for most part of the Kiwi innings with a tidy line and length.

Off-spinner Harbhajan Singh was the other successful bowler with three for 43 while pacemen Ishant Sharma and Munaf Patel chipped in with a wicket apiece.

Visiting captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni had also a busy day as he took six catches, the most by an Indian wicketkepeer, eclipsing Syed Kirmani's five catches.

Ross Taylor (42) and Tim McIntosh (32) were the two Kiwi batsmen who got decent starts but none of the other batters could hang around for long on a day which was completely dominated by Dhoni and his men.

Kareena Dressing in High Style

2009-04-04T08:58:00.000-07:00

For her role as a surgeon who is also a supermodel in Kambakkht Ishq, Kareena Kapoor will be dressed to the nines wearing a dress worth Rs.800,000 in one of the song sequences. The dress was specially ordered from Paris for Bebo by producer Sajid Nadiadwala and is reportedly a sight to see. A source close to the production said, “When the song was completed and the whole crew had a look, it looked very beautiful and eye catching. But most importantly everyone's eyes were stuck at seeing Kareena's dress. Kareena was looking gorgeous.” After the sequence was canned producer Sajid Nadiadwala gave Kareena the dress as a gift!

About her look in the film Kareena said, “It's a film which is full of glamour. It has all the elements of a commercial film. You have exciting moments, lot of glitz and glamour and a whole lot of stunning locations to enjoy. I am quite excited about this film because I have an entirely new look in it. I am playing the character of a super model and I have tried some great costumes in the movie."

Kambakkht Ishq also star Akshay Kumar, Amrita Arora and has special appearances from a host of Hollywood celebrities including Sylvester Stallone, Brandon Routh and Denise Richards.

Not only will Kareena be seen in the fabulous dress she will also be seen in a bikini and she won’t be alone. Both Denise Richards and Amirta Arora who also play supermodels in the film will appear in the two-piece suits as well.

To see the hot looks and glamour plus what seems to be a intriguing story be sure to check out Kambakkht Ishq when it opens in theaters on May 29th!

Anil Kapoor bags role in American TV show 24

2009-04-04T08:50:00.000-07:00

After the huge success of Slumdog Millionaire, in which he acted as a game show host, actor Anil Kapoor is now gearing up for a different role in an American TV show 24.

Kapoor, who won critical acclaim as a game show host in the multiple Oscar-winning film, will have a regular role as a Middle Eastern leader in the eighth season of the thriller, Variety magazine reported. The show will mark Kapoor's debut on American television.

The actor has reportedly clinched the deal with ICM and is all set to star as a leader, who comes to the US for a peacekeeping mission.

Kapoor played Prem Kumar, the host of Indian version of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, in Slumdog Millionaire.

Kajol , Shahrukh , Hrithik , Kareena at LFS-2009

2009-04-01T09:19:00.000-07:00

Kajol , Shahrukh , Hrithik , Kareena at LFS-2009

Watch Shahrukh Khan on the Ramp- Lakme Fashion Week 2009

2009-04-01T09:18:00.001-07:00

Shahrukh khan modeling at the lakme india fashion week !! He looks like a million bucks...better than any model any day!

Shah Rukh Khan takes over the ramp, and how!

2009-04-01T09:15:00.000-07:00

Leave it to King Khan to charm, ooze sex appeal, crack jokes and walk the ramp, all the while with his arm in a sling! The Bollywood superstar strutted his stuff for Manish Malhotra on the fourth day of Lakme India Fashion Week. Malhotra’s colour theme for the show was inspired by Khan’s IPL team Kolkata Knight Riders. So, it was inevitable that Khan did the catwalk dressed from head to sling to toe in black and gold. The highlight was the drool-worthy actor in black harem pants and a black blazer with golden buttons

And Khan stole the show with well-timed witticisms about Preity Zinta, and sex and the Khan reputation. He even did an impeccable impression of the models by sucking in his cheeks and showing off his pout! Bollywood’s elite like Kajol , Kareena Kapoor, Hrithik Roshan, Genelia D’ Souza, Arjun Rampal and wife Meher, Sridevi and Boney Kapoor were spotted in the front rows.

Shilpa Shetty's wedding date fixed

2009-04-01T09:11:00.000-07:00

Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty will probably tie the knot with beau Raj Kundra in October this year, say reports.

The couple have set a tentative date in October and plan to have a traditional ceremony in India, it is reported.

"I have very traditional views of marriage. I've seen my parents maintain a 35-year marriage and I really believe marriages are made in heaven. I've always said that the day I decide to tie the knot it is going to be for good," Shilpa said.

"I have often wondered who the right person would be and I've come to realise that for me it is Raj. I'm completely sure he is my soul mate," she added.

Kundra seems as excited about the prospect of marriage as Shilpa.

"I have spoken to Shilpa's parents and we are doing it the Indian way. In India, you don't get engaged until just before the wedding, so I didn't go down on one knee to her or anything like that. But we have definitely set a date for this year," he said.

The couple have been together for two years. They are yet to make an official announcement out of respect for British reality TV star Jade Goody, who passed away March 22. She had appeared with Shilpa on Celebrity Big Brother, sparking an international racism row.

The actress, 33, recently bought a 5 million pound house in Weybridge, Surrey with Kundra. The house has seven bedrooms.

Kundra, a 34-year-old millionaire, owns a Dubai-based business and deals in the trading of precious stones and metals.

He has also started to help Shilpa manage her career and is believed to be behind her decision last month to invest 8 million pounds in the cricket team Rajasthan Royals, who were last year's Indian Premier League winners.

Kareena in a dress worth Rs 800000

2009-04-01T09:08:00.000-07:00

Bollywood actress Kareena Kapoor will sport a dress worth Rs 800,000 for a song in Kambakkht Ishq. Producer Sajid Nadiadwala had specially ordered it for the actress from Paris.

"When the song was completed and the whole crew had a look, it looked very beautiful and eye catching. But most importantly everyone's eyes were stuck at seeing Kareena's dress. Kareena was looking gorgeous. The dress cost Rs 800,000," said a source close to the producer.

The filmmaker has also gifted the dress to Kareena as she looked really pretty wearing it. "Sajid Nadiadwala is a wonderful person at heart. He always makes sure that his cast and crew is happy. Kareena was happy after receiving such an extra-ordinary gift from Sajid bhai. She was short of words to express her feeling after she received the gift." added the source.

Kareena plays a supermodel in the movie, which has Akshay Kumar in the male lead. It also stars Hollywood biggies Sylvester Stallone, Brandon Routh and Denise Richards.

Jolie, Pitt paradise falling apart?

2009-04-01T09:06:00.000-07:00

Angelina Jolie has blasted Brad Pitt over his booze break while their six kids wreaked havoc in the house, it has emerged. The actress, who is presently filming for new flick Salt, was said to have lost her temper after finding her partner guzzling beer and watching DVDs in their bedroom as the children created a mess downstairs.

According to the Daily Mail, the fight was the second big one in the last few weeks, leaving their friends anticipating their future together, reports the Daily Telegraph. It was also previously reported that the couple were spending the nights in separate rooms due to Jolie's 15-hour work schedule that was apparently leaving her with less time to spend with the family.

Shilpa refutes allegations

2009-04-01T08:59:00.000-07:00

Very recently the Bollywood heroine Shilpa Shetty was in the news for deciding to marry UK-based entrepreneur Raj Kundra. After this news was out she was accused as a person to break marriages by some media.

Refuting these allegations the actress has come out clear with her statements. She has crisply pointed out that Mr. Kundra was divorced from his wife when she met him. The actress was also quoted by a website as saying that she was physically sick hearing such baseless allegations mounted on her and that it brought a lot of shame on her parents.

Shilpa has also clearly stated that she believes the institution of marriage so much that she cannot take it lightly. When the first stories of the actress and the business man came out Mr. Kundra’s ex-wife had told media that Shilpa was the reason for their marriage to hit the rocks.

Shilpa had met her beau for the first time after she won the popular UK-based TV reality show Big Brother. Shilpa has also revealed that though she fell in love with the entrepreneur the first time she met him she was in denial.

But all that is old story. Now the couple has bought a sprawling home in Surrey where they intend to raise a family. They also have planned to exchange marital vows come October.

King Khan takes to the ramp

2009-04-01T08:53:00.000-07:00

First Shah Rukh Khan inspired designer Manish Malhotra to use black andgold as the team colours of the Kolkata Knight Riders. Then the cricketuniforms inspired the designer to create a whole new collection for thefashion conscious. Finally, to showcase his clothes, Manish invited his'muse'.

King Khan, dressed in his team's colours and a gold-and-black slingas his accessory, walked the ramp for Manish Malhotra's show on Day 4of the Lakme Fashion Week. He was outfitted in a black dhoti-pants and a black blazer.

Shah Rukh praised Manish, claiming he was the first designer ever to design a sling!

Wife Gauri Khan, Kareena Kapoor, Karan Johar, Hrithik Roshan,Amisha Patel, Kajol, Tusshar Kapoor, Genelia D' Souza, Arjun Rampal andSridevi were among those who dropped in to cheer SRK.

Oh, and if you were wondering about the fish face that ShahRukh pulled in a few of the pictures, it was a reaction tochoreographer Lubna Adams' statement that he looked like a fish starvedof sex. "Fish is okay, but sex?" asked SRK. "I have a reputation. I ama Khan!"

Kambhakht Ishq is full of glitz: Bebo

2009-04-01T08:49:00.000-07:00

If you've been missing the glamorous side of Kareena Kappor, then wait for her forthcoming film Kambakht Ishq.

The film has Kareena strutting her stuff in one of her most glamorous appearances ever. The actress confesses that Kambhakht Ishq is a film in which she is out and out glamorous and stunning.

Talking about the film she says, "It's a film which is full of glamour. It has all the elements of a commercial film. You have exciting moments, lot of glitz and glamour and a whole lot of stunning locations to enjoy. I am quite excited about this film because I have an entirely new look in it. I am playing the character of a super model and I have tried some great costumes in the movie."

"I am quite hopeful for Kambhakht Ishq's box office performance, as it's a film for those who just want to enjoy glitz and glamour," she adds.

Before Kambhkht Ishq, Kareena was seen flaunting her size zero figure in the film Tashan.

But this time around, it seems Kareena has become a little more experimental. Though she hasn't disclosed anything about her intimate scenes with Akshay but the latest promotional video of the film suggests that she is at her glamorous best in these scenes.

Apart from these intimate scenes, the actress will also be seen repeating her bikini act in Tashan.

While talking about her glamorous side, Kareena is quick to reveal the secret behind her figure. "I think Yoga has done wonders to my personality," says the actress.

Furious Salman Khan Leaves In Auto

2009-04-01T08:45:00.001-07:00

Salman Khan's temper has once again been caught on camera. The incident happened when Salman attended Amrita Arora and Shakeel Ladak's wedding sangeet.

A R Rahman will be a Doctor

2009-04-01T08:38:00.000-07:00

The world is finally catching up on the sensation that Rahman has sustained in India for 15 years now. Two Oscars, a Golden Globe and a BAFTA later, the latest recognition to beckon the Oscar Tamilan, as he is popularly called, is an honourary doctorate by the Middlesex University, London. The doctorate will be conferred on him in July this year.

But that’s not all. Talks are also on by AR Rahman’s KM Music Conservatory to do a joint three year Bachelor of Arts in Music Composition and Music performance, in association with the London-based University.

The officials are exploring the possibility of offering the first two years of the Middlesex Programme in KM Music Conservatory, while the final year can take place in the institution in London. Talks are on with Joe Victor, Regional Director, South Asia, of the Middles Sex University, for this purpose.

Here’s wishing Rahman luck for more international accolades to pore in.

Amitabh releases Limca Book of Records' 20th edition

2009-04-01T08:32:00.000-07:00

Superstar Amitabh Bachchan on Tuesday released the 20th edition of Limca Book of Records and was felicitated for being among 20 luminaries who have made India proud.

Amitabh, who had daughter-in-law Aishwarya Rai in attendance at the event, said he was deeply touched by the acknowledgement of his work.

"I'm deeply honoured to be on this stage with some great people. I feel very humbled. I've always believed that it's the people of our country who have given me inspiration, have always stood by me, given me love and respect and provoked me to do better. I want to thank everyone for the acknowledgement of my work," he said.

Personalities, including Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chief G Madhavan Nair, senior photographer Raghu Rai and senior journalist Rajdeep Sardesai, among others, were also felicitated for being among the 20 People of the Year.

Said Nair: "It is an extremely exciting moment for me to share the stage with such great personalities. Many mothers must have told their naughty kids that they will get the moon for them. I could not get the moon here but managed to take Indians to the moon."

"I owe this award to my ISRO family," he added.

The Hindi and Malayalam versions of the book were also unveiled on the occasion.

Others in the list of people of the Year include actor Naseeruddin Shah, singer Lata Mangeshkar, shooter Abhinav Bindra, cricketer Sachin Tendulkar and footballer Baichung Bhutia besides others.

Jodhaa Akbar sweeps Radio Mirchi Awards

2009-04-01T08:30:00.000-07:00

Radio Mirchi hosted a first of its kind dazzling award show – the Mirchi Music Awards on Saturday to honour excellence in Hindi film music. The event took place at Taj Lands End Mumbai with eminent personalities from the film and music fraternity attending the mega event like Genelia Dsouza, Bipasha Basu, Shahid Kapoor and Abhishek Bachchan etc.

Ashutosh Gowariker's Jodha Akbar almost singly handedly swept the awards winning 7 awards including Best Song of the Year for ‘Jashn-e-Baharaa'. Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na won 4 awards including Best Album of the Year. Nightangle of India Lata Mangeshkar was was conferred with the Lifetime Achievement Award.

"I respect Aishwarya for what she is" - Katrina

2009-04-01T08:27:00.000-07:00

Katrina has climbed one step higher on the pedestal of success. Representing the Barbie doll in India and walking the ramp in the Barbie clothes has been an iconic moment for Katrina who has now made it to the top. Katrina has replaced Aishwarya Bachchan in most of the campaigns and since there was a buzz that Aishwarya Bachchan was going to the iconic figure for Barbie, Katrina being selected for the same came as a surprise.

“I know nothing about that. My association was with Mattel Company. They approached me and I took it up. As far as Aishwarya Bachchan is concerned she is a talented actress and is an iconic figure not only in India but all over the world. I respect Aishwarya for what she is” says Katrina.

“I feel lucky and privileged and to have things offered to me on a platter. Everything I have worked for in life has been fulfilled. My whole journey has been wonderful. It has come at the right time and I have worked hard for it. I feel blessed and fortunate that god has answered everything. I am trying to give my best shot every time I try something new” she further adds.

Dressing up as a Barbie girl must be every girl’s dream, we tell her. “Yes, dressing up as a Barbie girl certainly brought back childhood memories. It was a great occasion and they were moments I could relate to in real life like how I strutted around in my clothes as a young child. These are moments which you capture in your heart so that when you grow old you can sit and cherish them. I am certainly happy and joyous. I enjoyed every bit of it” says Katrina.

Booze queen Kate Moss defies blurry eyes

2009-04-01T08:24:00.000-07:00

Kate Moss seemed to have left her booze blurs behind as she posed for a new Topshop campaign. The supermodel, who has been repeatedly snapped looking bleary-eyed after her hard-partying sprees, unwrapped her new spring and summer collection looking her stunning self.

The 35-year-old style icon was said to have been inspired by her mum’s look in the 70s while she inked her latest designs, reports the Sun. Meanwhile, Kate has also reportedly bagged a place on The Lemonheads’ comeback cover album sporting a rock star look. She was further alleged to have lent her vocals on a version of Dutch electro duo Arling and Cameron’s Dirty Robot.

Celebrating Indianness

2009-04-01T08:20:00.000-07:00

At the Lakme Fashion Week Fall/Winter’09, the grand finale was presented by designer Anamika Khanna.

Guests who walked in were welcomed with the humdrum of temple bells. Bowls filled with rice adorned the sides of the ramp, giving a sense of traditional Indian festivity. As the lights dimmed, the head ramp lit up gradually.

Taking confident strides, models flaunted ensembles with fantastic cuts such as lehengas teamed with a slim golden belt, churidaars peeping under the sarees, pastel shades with golden borders of one-shoulder kaftans, bordered kurtas with interesting knots in fabrics which reflected the confluence of many states and cultures. “

The entire look was of a woman who is sensuous yet knows where to draw the line to be called dressed too sexily. It’s her mind which decides the way she wants to dress up,” said designer Anamika Khanna.

And indeed this crisp show sans much drama was aptly for a woman who has a soul, is informed and intelligent, is exposed to the world, and also knows how her fashion sensibility will befit an occasion.

Then the free faces of Lakme sported this sensibility with models Vipasha Agarwal, Indrani Dasgupta and Amrit Maghera who presented the Lakmé Bridal Sutra Summer 2009 collection with designer Anamika Khanna.

Shahrukh and Salman in Karan Arjun sequel

2009-04-01T07:45:00.000-07:00

In the recent past Shahrukh Khan and Salman Khan have been known to be at logger heads with each other. It all started on Katrina Kaif's birthday bash last year and almost divided the Bollywood into two camps. But the news is that forgetting all their differences the two superstars have decided to bridge their gap and do a sequel of their superhit movie Karan Arjun.

Rakesh Roshan who had directed the 1995 blockbuster will be donning the producer's hat this time and is in lookout for a director to call the shots. Kajol who had played Sharukh's love interest in the movie will be retained in the sequel while Katrina Kaif will be replacing Mamata Kulkarni and play the female lead to her real life beau Salman Khan.

The movie is expected to hit the floors this July after the two superstars take on each other at the Box Office on the same day. Shahrukh will be seen in his much delayed Dulha Mil Gaya while Salman will be seen in an action movie Wanted Dead And Alive. As they say no friendship or enmity is permanent when it comes to Bollywood!

Slumdog kid Rubina shoots with Nicole Kidman

2009-04-01T07:41:00.000-07:00

It's not just Freida Pinto who seems to be getting a lot of attention post Slumdog Millionaire. Child actor Rubina Ali Qureshi, who played the youngest character of Latika in the movie, is getting the much needed attention as well. The nine-year-old was plucked from the slums of Mumbai to star in the much acclaimed Danny Boyle movie.

She walked the ramp in designer clothes recently and has now shot for a TV commercial with none other than Hollywood actress Nicole Kidman. The advertisement, for a soft drinks company, was produced by American Gangster director Ridley Scott and directed by Shekhar Kapur in Udaipur recently and also has Bollywood actor Arjun Rampal.

According to contactmusic, her father hopes that her rising profile could lead to a better life for the family. Rubina's father Rafiq Ali said, “We are very proud of her and hope she continues to become a big star. Maybe then, we will be able to live in a proper house. She was paid more for the ad than the movie”.

Well, this kid really deserved to be part of a rags to riches story. This one seems really justified.

Saif, Kareena marriage: Will they, Wouldn't they

2009-04-01T07:37:00.000-07:00

Is Saif and Kareena marriage going to happen soon. Will they marry, or wouldn't they. We have heard so many stories and rumours during the last few months that sometimes, the news of thir marriage sems unbelievably distant. But we will have to believe that marriage is possible pretty soon as Saif Ali Khan has claimed in a recent intervew.

Rumours regarding Saif, Kareena nikah had spread so fast this last February that it seemed that the two had in fact married. And there was no reason not to believe as most love stories end up with marriage. But alas it remained a rumour as both Saif and Kareena came forward and denied the news.

Again just a few weeks later there was rumour that both were on the verge of split as Saif was too much possessive of Kareena.

Certainly Saif and Karena relationship has been a very eventful.

But now chote nawab says that the marriage is not far away. While talking to a newspaper Saif said, "Oh yes, much sooner. In fact, people may be hearing an announcement from us very soon. If I had my way, I'd marry her today right here in London where she's joined me. In any case, aren't we supposed to have gone through a secret Muslim marriage?"

But the news is amazing indeed as Kareena only last month had said that marriage was not on her mind for at least next three years. She had said that she was pre-occuoied in her zooming career and increasing workload.

Bollywood's powerful women

2009-04-01T07:32:00.000-07:00

This is one powerful A-list Bollywood group here. Gauri Khan, SRK’s wife, Preity Zinta, who in all probability will be Mrs Wadia soon, and Sussane Roshan, hunk Hrithik’s wife.

All the three recently came to the Lakme Fashion Week, saw shows together, and discussed fashion. Lekin, what happened to your fashion sensibility, ladies?

Maana ke floral prints are in, but c’mon Preity, we’ve seen you in more elegant attire than this! And Sussane, maybe you should change your designer. Aur Gauri, bura mat maanna, but what you’re wearing looks
suspiciously similar to a terry bathrobe!

ENRIQUE IGLESIAS and ANNA KOURNIKOVA FUNNY

2009-03-31T19:33:00.000-07:00

ENRIQUE IGLESIAS and ANNA KOURNIKOVA FUNNY

Watch SEXY Anna Kournikova romance with Iglesias

2009-03-31T19:32:00.000-07:00

Watch SEXY Anna Kournikova romance with Iglesias

Salman,a child -SRK

2009-03-31T07:42:00.000-07:00

Shah Rukh Khan has decided to speak on the reported tiff with Salman Khan at Katrina Kaif’s birthday party.

SRK said, “We think different. We speak different. We have spent some good time together. But with time, that fact got blurred.“

Shah Rukh Khan also commented on the behaviour of Salman at Katrina’s bash. He said, “I think like a father, while Salman Khan thinks like a child.“

The ‘fight’ occurred at Katrina Kaif’s birthday party, where an irate Salman Khan rubbed King Khan the wrong way, leading to an icy silence between them since. The incident divided the Mumbai film industry into two camps, with Shah Rukh and Salman supporters coming out to support their favourites.

When asked about any chance of their coming together anytime soon, he added, “We are happy in our worlds. If we come together it is good. If we don’t it’s even better. We are not friends, but it doesn’t imply we are enemies,” Khan said.

Before SRK’s statements, Salman had agreed about the coldness, too. He had said, “Yes there is a problem. But it is no big deal. Problems do occur in everybody’s lives. If after eighteen years of friendship something happens then it does not mean a lot.”

Shah Rukh initially did not pay any heed to Salman’s comments. The final blow came when Shah Rukh made a comment on Salman’s ex-girlfriend Aishwarya Rai, inviting a furious retaliation from Salman.

Asin set to become SRK’s girl

2009-03-31T07:36:00.000-07:00

Aamir Khan’s Ghajini girl Asin Thottumkal is all set to become Shahrukh Khan’s girl in the upcoming Yash Raj project. Katrina Kaif was initially being considered for this project but the King Khan made a conscious decision of keeping away professionally from anything that’s related to Salman Khan, so, Katrina’s name was dropped.

“But then there was also a problem having Asin in the film.” sources further reveal. “The Yash Raj project was to go on floors during 2009 but Asin was committed to do a Priyadarshan project co-starring Akshay Kumar. In fact Akshay himself had suggested her name and she had landed in a catch 22 situation as rejecting the Yash Raj project would mean taking on the biggest production house’s ire and refusing Akki’s film would mean hurting him.

Since, Akki herself had suggested her name, Asin was not able to back out of it. But then luck favoured the Southern beauty as recently Akshay announced his inability to shoot the Priyadarshan project in 2009 and allotted dates of March 2010. Now her dates for 2009 end got free and she intimated Yash Raj about it.

Now the buzz doing the rounds of industry circles is, Asin may be replaced from the Priyadarshan project with Katrina Kaif. Now that would make it a full circle if it happens so!”

Freida Pinto become the highest paid actress from Bollywood

2009-03-31T07:28:00.000-07:00

Freida Pinto , who was virtually an anonymous name in Bollywood before Slumdog Millionaire catapulted her to international stardom, is today reported to be worth more than established actresses of Bollywood.

According to a news report, Freida has leaped ahead of her Indian rivals to become the highest paid actress from Bollywood.

Following the success of ‘Slumdog’, which took home eight Oscars and whose worldwide box office receipts so far are estimated at over USD 270 millions, the Indian model-turned-actress has landed a series of lucrative roles with top directors, including Woody Allen and Julian Schnabel.

Freida has pushed ahead of her rivals, Katrina Kaif , Kareena Kapoor and former Miss World Aishwarya Rai , to become the highest paid actress from India.

Freida is in Israel to shoot for a new film that focuses on the interwoven lives of Israeli and Palestinian women.

The British daily, quoting sources close to the Indian star, said her earnings have now topped 2 million pounds to overtake top Bollywood actresses.

“Freida is fast reaching top status in the international arena. The actress’s projects with big film-makers like Woody Allen have helped her join a league which no other Indian actress has achieved so far,” said a film analyst.

Oprah`s school lands in second sex scandal in 2 years

2009-03-31T07:21:00.000-07:00

Oprah Winfrey’s girls-only boarding school in South Africa has landed in another sex scandal in less than two years.

Seven students at the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls now face suspension after being accused of sexually harassing their fellow pupils.

According to the newspaper Afrikaans on Sunday, a girl of 15 was found guilty of preying upon another student and forcing other girls to conceal the truth from investigators.

Other girls were “caught fondling each other or trying to get other girls to join them in lesbian liaisons”.

Lisa Halliday, Oprah`s spokesperson, confirmed the suspension.

"It is because they contravened the school`s code of conduct. We regard the incident as confidential," the New York Daily News quoted her as saying.

The incident comes nearly two years after a female school staffer was accused of physically and sexually abusing students in October 2007.

On learning upon the sex charges, Oprah had then said: "I am a mama bear when it comes to protecting my children.

"These girls are like my children. That`s not just rhetoric for me. I take their futures and the possibility for what their futures hold very seriously."

Naomi likes to work with Bollywood?

2009-03-31T07:16:00.000-07:00

This one sure seems to have happened unexpectedly. The venue was the Lakme Fashion Week that is being held in Mumbai. Though the ramp witnessed a number of glamorous faces, one with prominence was of the international supermodel Naomi Campbell.

The supermodel cum actress who is quite famous for her charity events has surfaced in the Indian subcontinent for the same reason. The proceedings of this event will go straight as aid to victims of the 26/11 Mumbai terrorist attacks.

Though the 38-year-old Ms. Campbell has never modeled in India reports suggest that she thoroughly enjoyed walking the ramp in Mumbai. But it looks like Naomi was not the only one who enjoyed the show. Reports suggest that a couple of producers from Bollywood have approached Ms. Campbell for a screen test for a stint in Bollywood films.

The black beauty who was totally surprised by the offer is looking forward to come back to India when she gets her next break from her busy schedule.

Looks like the Bollywood babes are in for a real challenge from the international superstar. Watch out girls!

Jade Goody ‘cradled imaginary baby with hubby before she died’

2009-03-31T07:09:00.000-07:00

Jade Goody’s hubby has revealed that his late wife cradled their “imaginary baby” before loosing her battle with cancer.

Widower Jack Tweed had missed the chance to become a father when Jade had a miscarriage just 12 weeks into her pregnancy two years ago.

The 21-year-old said that Jade, who died of cervical cancer on March 22, tried to fulfil their dreams of having a child together with a pretend baby.

“Jade cradled our imaginary baby before she died,” the Daily Star quoted him as telling OK! magazine.

Speaking of Jack, a pal added: “Jack loves Jade’s boys as his own but she was desperate to have a baby with him. But it was not going to happen. So she joked about their imaginary baby and used to hug it in her sick bed. It was a comfort. It made her feel she was sealing the marriage.”

Jack will reportedly pay a personal tribute to his late better half with a touching ode at her funeral at St John’s Church, Buckhurst Hill, Essex on April 4.

Matt Dillon fined USD 800 for speeding

2009-03-31T07:03:00.000-07:00

Actor Matt Dillon had to pay USD 800 as fine after pleading guilty for speeding.

Dillon`s case was dismissed after he paid the fine for speeding through Vermont in December last year.

As part of the plea agreement, a negligent operation charge against Dillon was dropped, according to TMZ online.

The 44-year-old `Crash` star was stopped by state troopers in Newbury, Vermont on 30 December, after he was allegedly caught travelling at a speed of 171 kilometres per hour, which is above the 104 kilometres per hour speed limit.

Marriage not on cards for Enrique Iglesias, Ana Kournikova

2009-03-31T06:58:00.000-07:00

Escape` singer Enrique Iglesias has admitted that former professional tennis player Ana Kournikova was the love of his life but the couple has no plans to tie the knot for now.

"If you ask me right now, I`d say she`s the woman in my life, but I don`t know if eternal love exists. The reality is that lots of people who get married get divorced, but I`ll be able to answer that question when I`m 90, then I`ll be able to say if I was with her the rest of my life," the singer was quoted by a news daily as saying in a press conference.

"Relationships are difficult and maintaining them is not easy. I believe in marriage, but I believe that today you don`t have to be married to be happy," Iglesias said.

The 33-year-old singer said he was not yet ready to have children, but he did not rule out having a family in the future.

Iglesias and Kournikova have been together since 2002, when the Russian tennis star played Iglesias` girlfriend in the video for his hit number `Escape`.

Over the years, reports periodically suggested a split but both Iglesias and Kournikova have always denied them.

‘Padma Shrimati’ Aishwarya and ‘Kinng’ Akshay receive ‘Padma Shri’

2009-03-31T06:55:00.000-07:00

It was a proud day for ‘Bachchan Bahu’ Aishwarya and ‘Kinng’ Akshay Kumar as they received one of the highest civilian honours – Padma Shri from President Pratibha Patil at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Aishwarya is the youngest person to ever achieve this honour from the film fraternity. Tall, lissome and clad in an embroidered sari, Aishwarya looked regal as she received the award. Akshay Kumar looked equally impressive and suave in his formals.

The two good-looking actors were among the 62 personalities who received the Padma awards on Monday. Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission Anil Kakodkar, a key architect of the Indo-US nuclear deal, famous playback singer of yesteryear Shamshad Begum and director of the central board of Reserve Bank of India, Ashok Shekhar Ganguly were among other prominent persons to get the award from the President at the special function in the Ashoka Hall of Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Patil conferred the Padma Vibhushan, the country`s second highest civilian award, to Kakodkar for his contributions in the field of nuclear science and technology during the function attended by Vice President Hamid Ansari, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and a host of other dignitaries.

Earlier, Ash’s father-in-law Amitabh Bachchan said after the announcement of awardees, “Aishwarya will become the 5th Padma Award in our household. My Father with the Padma Bhushan the first, then the Padma Shri for me, followed again by the Padma Bhushan to me some years later, Jaya’s Padma Shri and now Aishwarya’s. This must be a record for the country. 5 Padma Awards in one family. God has been very kind to us. The people of this land have been very kind to us. We are humbled and with bended knee and bowed heads acknowledge your affection and care and love.” Hubby Abhishek expressed his joy at the news and fondly called wife as ‘Padma Shrimati’.

Akshay & Kareena With Hollywood's Finest

2009-03-31T06:52:00.000-07:00

What do you get when Bollywood goes to Hollywood to make a movie of lavish proportions? Kambakkht Ishq, of course! The film has the multitalented Akshay Kumar in the lead role, and Bollywood’s current leading lady Kareena Kapoor starring opposite him. This is the seventh movie together for Akki and Bebo. Supporting them are actor Aftab Shivdasani and actress Amrita Arora.

This latest offering from the house of Sajid Nadiadwala, known for hit movies like Mujhse Shaadi Karogi and Heyy Baby, is directed by Sabbir Khan. In Nadiadwala’s own words Kambakkht Ishq is probably the first Indian movie to have been shot at Universal Studios and the Kodak Theatre (home to The Oscars). It also has the distinction of having Hollywood heavyweights like Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sylvester Stallone, Denise Richards and Brandon Routh appear in cameo roles. Parts of the movie were shot in Venice, Italy.

The premise is simple: Boy meets girl in beautiful L.A., and they fall in love with each other. But not all romances are destined to have a smooth sailing, and what follows next is a battle of the sexes that’s sure to have you laughing throughout the movie. So what happens when “the stuntman of the year meets the supermodel of the year?” Watch this movie to find out!

Kareena is set to scorch the scene

2009-03-31T06:42:00.000-07:00

Kareena’s weight has been the subject of much intense speculation, debate and argument. The glam actress has even had to address rumours of being bulimic and/or anorexic (take your pick!). Now that it’s been established that Bebo’s sexy, lean body is all due to eating right and a high-end personal trainer, she’s ready to make waves again! And this time it’s with an itsy-bitsy black bikini, designed by Aki Narula, for her new movie 'Kambakkth Ishq'.

Kapoor’s dietician Roojuta helped the actress follow a healthy diet and a regular workout regime to get her supermodel-worthy! Kapoor not only looks Vanity Fair material in 'Kambakkth Ishq', but her toned body has men (including Saif, we bet) going weak in the knees. Earlier, Kareena had tried to come down to a size zero for her movie 'Tashan'. While she’s not waifish anymore, she’s still rocking the scene.

Salman's political connection

2009-03-30T11:32:00.000-07:00

The most recent entrant into politics is someone who’s known for often being politically incorrect – Salman Khan. In Unnao to campaign for Congress candidate Anu Tandon, Salman looked relaxed and fresh in a tee and jeans, his biceps on show. Standing by a French window before hitting the campaign trail, basking in the early morning sun, Salman sported a pony reminiscent of rival Shah Rukh Khan. The relaxed attitude belied his busy schedule – he had to cover five locations and meetings till late at night, but he answered questions with patience and good humour. Is this the first time he’s out campaigning for someone? “Yes,” he says. As an afterthought, he adds, “I’m not here to canvass or campaign.” But he’s associated himself with a political party. “I’m here to associate with Anu. And to connect with the people,” he replies. But what’s in it for him? “I’m from Indore – I was born there and eventually came to Panvel (in Mumbai), so I know what happens there, how the people there are. But to leave all that, a cushy life, the whole social scene in Mumbai, and work with the masses in villages, needs guts. I’ve known Anu for a very long time and I know the amount of work she’s done for the people, so I wanted to add my bit to it,” he says. “A lot of people say they’ll do this, they’ll do that, but how many eventually get down to doing it? I want to go back to the place where I came from and make sure that the people come out from such small places, the way I have. What extra do I have? The same education, the same lifestyle, we’re born in the same place. But it’s all about opportunities. I want people to have that. That’s what there is in this for me.”

The who's who came for the fashion shows!

2009-03-30T11:23:00.000-07:00

On Day 3, that was Sunday, there was Dream Girl Hema Malini cheering the models on the ramp from the front row for the Neeta Lulla show. The lovely actress was dressed simply in a white printed saree and said, “I was keen to see Neeta’s new western wear collection.” Giving her company was Aishwarya Bachchan’s momma Vrinda, who we were told filled in for her absent daughter! Bollywood newbie Genelia dressed in a smart green dress and Lara Dutta walked in hand-in-hand with a firangi girl. Both of them got busy looking at the details of the ensembles. Then there was Dia Mirza, Sameera Reddy and Eesha Koppikhar who sat in rapt attention and cheered for the dancers who opened the show. Eesha excitedly cheered for Neeta when the designer took a bow on the ramp and Shriya Saran watched on with a coy smile. Then there was the Shotgun couple Shatrughan Sinha and wife Punam. They made their way to watch their daughter Sonakshi who walked as the showstopper for designer Pria Kataaria Puri. Pria said, “Sonakshi used to be in my core team member backstage till two seasons ago. It was her all-time wish to walk for my show as the showstopper, so this time we decided she would do the honours.” Author Gregory David Roberts and wife Princess Francoise Sturdza were also there cheering for Pria, Gregory holding a walking stick to support his slight limp which was not noticeable when they took the ramp themselves the previous night for the Mai Mumbai show.

Mansoor and I love Kareena: Sharmila Tagore

2009-03-30T11:21:00.000-07:00

Kareena Kapoor is in no mood to marry but the magic of those hazel eyes and drop-dead gorgeous looks seems to have worked their way in her prospective in-laws Pataudi’s hearts. Even as the gorgeous twosome ‘Saifeena’ go on slamming marriage rumours, they seem to be heading in its direction as they continue wooing each other’s parents.
After Saif Ali Khan swept the Kapoor ladies off their feat with his lavish praises and spendthrift ways, it’s the dainty beauty Kareena who has won Pataudis approval.Thrashing a reported rift between Kareena and Saif’s father Mansoor Ali Khan, mum Sharmila has now gone on record to express her family’s love and affection for their son’s lady. As opposed to sister Soha, who gets peeved at the mere enquiry of her brother and his arm-candy, Sharmila is much too pleased talking of her son’s love affair.Speaking to a news daily, Sharmila said, "Saif and Kareena are very much in love with each other and Saif has brought her to the Patuadis. He keeps on visiting his home with Kareena whenever he wants to slip away from his hectic life and can squeeze time out of their schedules. The last time they were home was a month back. Saif is very fond of Pataudis and the people he is fond of will have to like Patuadis too"

Watch Kuchh is Tarah - Movie 8 X 10 Tasveer Song...

2009-03-27T02:28:00.000-07:00

High Quality Version of Kuchh is Tarhan .. Movie 8 X 10 TASVEER (2009) - Akshay Kumar n

Ayesha Takia.

Watch Tasveer 8x10 - Tasveer Movie Trailer

2009-03-27T02:08:00.000-07:00

Tasveer 8x10 - Theatrical Trailer (2009) ~ Akshay Kumar~Akshay Kumar is an Indian

Bollywood film actor. He has appeared in over ..

Salman Khan Slaps Katrina Kaif

2009-03-27T00:50:00.000-07:00

Bad Boy Salman Khan might run into another failure in his relationship. And if sources are to be believed Salman Khan has slapped Katrina kaif over a small tiff. Is Salman Khan behaving the same way he did with Aishwariya Rai? Is Possessiveness the issue or there is another side to this problem?

As per a Goa Local Newspaper, Katrina Kaif and Akshay Kumar were shooting in Goa. Sallu Bhai feeling insecure about Kaif with Akki, bumped into the Shooting Sets and had tiff with Katrina. Probably Salman Khan has asked Katrina not to work with Akshay Kumar. But what Salman should know if that Katrina has given almost all her hits with Khiladi Number 1.

This isn’t the first time Salman has slapped Katrina. Few years back, a eye witness accounts to a Mumbai Local Newspaper that Kat and Sallu were sitting in a coffee shop. And suddenly Salman stood up and slapped Katrina. Though Katrina later refused to acknowledge that event!

Review of Movie Videsh (Heaven on Earth)

2009-03-27T00:49:00.001-07:00

Heaven on Earth isn’t exactly the plight of protagonist in this film, rather completely contrary to it. The alternate Hindi title Videsh is too generalized, misleading into the notion that Indian woman in NRI families are essentially victims of domestic violence, as is the theme of the film. It’s as difficult to relate with the titles (even on an sarcastic note), as impossible it is to connect with the treatment of this film (even after metaphorical decoding).

Apparently based on real-life events of two Indian victims of spousal abuse in Canada, Heaven on Earth initiates highlighting domestic violence reminiscent of Jagmohan Mundhra’s Provoked . But since Deepa Mehta wants to steer away from the 'Don't-hit-me' and then, 'I'll-hit-you-back' kind of liberating experience approach, she seeks additional inspiration from Girish Karnad’s play Naag Mandala and, in process, goes completely tangential to the theme. So, while addressing the issue of marital abuse goes for a toss, a clone of the oppressing husband comes into illusionary existence in the form of his doppelganger, which reminds of Shah Rukh Khan’s Paheli that you always wanted to forget.

Deepika turns into a rangeeli gal!

2009-03-27T00:46:00.000-07:00

Deepika Padukone was in no mood to drench herself in water and flaunt greens and reds all over, but was left with little choice. On Holi day the kids in her building persuaded her to play holi with them. At first she said a big NO, then of course, the sweetie that she is, she couldn’t refuse her fans.

She quickly changed into Holi-proof gear, and rushed down for some rang barse with all of them. But then the same li’l ‘uns turned into colourful gremlins and attacked her with every colour. After which even Ranbir would’ve had a tough time recognising his colourful gal. Thankfully, she wasn’t shooting the next morning; we doubt the cameras would like to picture such a rangeeli babe. Well, if it was anything like our original Rangeela girl

Rajasthan becomes hotspot for Hollywood celebrities

2009-03-27T00:43:00.000-07:00

Oscar-winning actress Nicole Kidman, who is currently in Udaipur to shoot for an ad film directed by Shekhar Kapur, is the latest Hollywood celebrity to visit the desert state of Rajasthan.
Kidman, who arrived yesterday, is reportedly staying at the Udaipur's Lake Palace Hotel, which is a hot favourite amongst visiting celebrities.

Another Oscar-winning actress to visit the state was Julia Roberts, who stayed in Jaipur during a family holiday with her husband and children in January this year.

The other prominent Hollywood celebrities to visit Udaipur include pop singer Madonna, actor Richard Gere and Madonna's ex-husband Guy Ritchie.

Hollywood 'power couple' Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie had taken time out of their shooting schedule for "A Mighty Heart" in Mumbai to visit the desert state in 2008.

Rajasthan is also a favorite of "Rolling Stones" frontman Mick Jagger, who last visited the state in 2008 with daughter Jade. He stayed at Hotel Rambagh Palace while in Jaipur.
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Bobby helped me a lot with my Punjabi accent

2009-03-27T00:37:00.000-07:00

Southern siren Shriya Saran may not have created a deep impact in her Hindi films -Awarapan and Mission Istaanbul, but she has great expectations from Sangeeth Sivan’s Ek-The Power Of One, which releases this Friday

It’s a very cute love story loosely based on a Telugu film. The film tells us how love has the power to change even the toughest people. Set in Punjab, the film focusses on human emotions and will present Punjab as never before.

I play Bobby Deol’s love interest Preet, a cute girl who thinks that she is the most beautiful girl that God has created! She’s not arrogant but very naïve, like she keeps asking God why he has made her so beautiful.

He’s the coolest man I have worked with. Besides giving every actor his space, he remains unruffled in the toughest of situations. I never saw him lose his temper even once during the shooting of Ek…

No. I didn’t find him temperamental at all. He’s a fun person who would keep singing old songs or keep sketching by himself. As an actor, he’s extremely passionate about his work and always gives cues to his co-stars.

Very chilled-out! He helped me a lot with my Punjabi accent and some Punjabi dialogues and would tease me saying ‘Haye o rabba’, my catch- line in the film.

I always leave a character and a film behind once the work is complete. But yes, I will always remember the good times we had on the sets of Ek…

I think everything comes when it is due. I give my best to all my projects, and won’t deny that I am waiting for that script and challenging role that will leave a mark in Bollywood.

Madonna ‘headed to Malawi for tot No2’

2009-03-27T00:27:00.000-07:00

Madonna is expected to travel to Malawi this weekend to try to adopt a second child, it has emerged.

The 50-year-old singer is close to ending the end of a 19-month battle to make “smiling angel” Mercy James legally hers.

Officials in the impoverished African country have confirmed that adoption papers had been filed and that proceedings would begin at a court in the capital Lilongwe next week.

Madge first spotted Mercy, now four, in an orphanage in August 2007.

She has long talked of her desire for a sister for adopted son David Banda, three, insisting on a girl to “redress the balance.”

“Madonna is determined that she will leave Malawi with a new daughter. She desperately wants Mercy but there are other orphans who need homes,” The Sun quoted a source, as saying.

Emraan Hashmi fractures finger on birthday

2009-03-27T00:23:00.000-07:00

Actor Emraan Hashmi, who celebrated his birthday shooting for his upcoming film "Tum Mile", said he fractured his finger on the big day and received a long, touching SMS from uncle Mahesh Bhatt.

"For this birthday, I got a long touching SMS from Bhatt Saab. And a fractured finger."

He said Mahesh Bhatt likes to receive gifts even on his nephew`s birthday instead of giving gifts.

"On my 30th birthday on Tuesday I called Bhatt Saab to ask what he`s giving me. He turned around and made me gift him books. He makes me do that quite often. The only thing is he doesn`t call it gifts. He calls it `guru-dakshina` (offering to teacher). In fact after every hit film he takes a cheque from me. And every couple of months I give him money to buy books."

"I`m finally a true-blue member of the cast," said Emraan Hashmi jokingly looking at the plaster cast on his finger.

Shooting scenes of torrential rain in Kunal Deshmukh`s "Tum Mile", Emraan broke his finger on Tuesday.

After Ash, it's the time for Katrina as Barbie!

2009-03-27T00:19:00.000-07:00

Apparently, very, very cute... if you’ve got Barbie kicking it off, as the Lakme Fashion Week Fall/Winter’09 that starts in Mumbai today does. At 1 pm, the world’s most popular and admired fashion icon celebrates her 50th anniversary by showcasing the best in fashion design talent across the globe.

Yes, after making an unforgettable style statement at New York’s Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, Barbie will now walk the ramp at India’s foremost fashion event. This show called Barbie – All Doll’d Up! is the style sweetheart’s first in India and will showcase real-size, Barbie-inspired looks put together by renowned fashion designers from across the country including Wendell Rodricks, Neeta Lulla, Shantanu & Nikhil, Vikram Phadnis and others.

Barbie boasts five decades of fashion heritage, working with more fashion designers than any other brand in the world, and in the process becoming a star admired by major couturiers who dream to get their names associated with the most popular doll in history.

Taking off from New York, the world famous brand invited Indian designers to a contest to celebrate Barbie’s 50th birthday by creating designs with the doll as their muse. The winning designer (who will be announced today at the fashion show) was then invited to design the finale outfit of the event for a one-of-a-kind Barbie doll... and walking the ramp as the showstopper wearing that outfit today will be Bollywood actress Katrina Kaif.

Saba saying that Adnan was harassing me

2009-03-27T00:16:00.000-07:00

While Adnan Sami has been incessantly talking to the media about his marital discord with Sabah, she chose to remain silent. However, yesterday’s press conference by Adnan to declare that Sabah had withdrawn the charges of domestic violence against him disturbed her to no end. “The time has come for her to talk,” a friend of Sabah told Mumbai Mirror.

Although Sabah was initially reluctant, she finally agreed to tell us her side of the story. Commenting on Adnan’s claim that she had withdrawn the charges of domestic violence against him, Sabah said, “It’s just that the case is no more in the Andheri Magistrate Court. But that doesn’t mean that I have withdrawn the case. We will now be fighting the case only in the Family Court. I didn’t want to go to too many courts.”

Repenting her decision to marry Adnan, Sabah said, “I come from a different culture. My family didn’t want me to marry a Pakistani.”
Incidentally, Sabah and Adnan were married earlier after which they had divorced and remarried. “I gave him another chance. I had gone back to Dubai and later I thought of remarrying him. I thought that maybe he has become a better person. But it took me only 3-4 months to realise that things weren’t working out this time too. No woman would leave her husband if he was a good person. Adnan was harassing me physically and mentally,” she said.

Megan Fox shows off sexy tights look

2009-03-27T00:07:00.000-07:00

Megan Fox recently appeared wearing a grey cardigan over a pair of revealing tights, making the simple ensemble look quite sexy.

The Transformers actress was pictured leaving her dentist's in Hollywood, donning a long, grey cardigan and a pair of almost see-through lacy tights.

Completing her hot look with designer shades and a black vest inside the cardigan, Megan sure made a statement, reports the Sun.

Earlier this month, news broke that Megan had signed on to star in a live-action adaptation of the Fathom comic book series.

The comic tells the story of a beautiful marine biologist and former Olympic swimmer named Aspen Matthews, who discovers that she’s a member of a race of aquatic humanoids.

IT trouble for superstar Amitabh Bachchan

2009-03-27T00:04:00.000-07:00

Superstar Amitabh Bachchan is in for some fresh trouble as the Income Tax department has moved the Supreme Court challenging a seven-month-old order of the Bombay high court, which had given relief to Big B in a case related to his super hit TV show ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati’.

The Income Tax department is not in consensus with the HC order that had agreed to Bachchan claiming a benefit under Section 80RR of the Income Tax Act (which provides 30% tax relief on income of artistes from outside India).

According to the department, Big B was an anchor of ‘KBC’ and not an artist. Moreover, the income to be categorised under Section 80RR must have either come from abroad or the artist must have performed outside India but in this case the show was shot in Mumbai itself hence, no tax relief should be granted.

The dispute over taxation is on a total earning of Rs 13 crore which Bachchan earned from ‘KBC’.

Work of Videsh in parts

2009-03-27T00:02:00.000-07:00

he promos of Deepa Mehta's Videsh-Heaven on Earth bring back memories of Jag Mundhra's Provoked, which also spoke of domestic violence. Sure, Videsh-Heaven on Earth also looks at domestic violence, it's also about a Punjabi woman who continues to take the beatings silently on a foreign land, but the similarities end there. There's a twist in the tale in Videsh-Heaven on Earth and that makes this film different from films of its ilk.

Partly based on Girish Karnad's play Naag Mandala and perhaps inspired by several true stories, Deepa tries to inject myth into the main story and that's one of the prime reasons why you don't take to the film completely.

Videsh-Heaven on Earth is an unconventional subject, but the moment a reptile slides into the story, it robs the film of realism. Your heart breaks every time the woman is subjected to physical abuse. You do relate to the character since you've either heard or watched tales of domestic abuse. But the sheshnaag part in the film is difficult to digest.

Besides, there's a major flaw in the writing. The husband continues to indulge in physical abuse, but it's not clear why he comes across as a frustrated man. Not once does the director spell out the reasons why the husband behaves like a monster and keeps harming his wife, right under the nose of his family members.

Akshay's Tasveer 8X10 in trouble

2009-03-26T23:58:00.000-07:00

The release of 8X10 Tasveer, an Akshay Kumar-starrer supernatural thriller, is in trouble over a financial clash between the movie's co-producers, Percept Picture Company and T-Series.

On March 4, 2009, the co-producers signed an agreement according to which T-Series would walk out of the film and take back the money (50 per cent of the total agreed cost it had put in the film), if the money was paid by Percept on time through post-dated cheques, said a statement by T-Series.

The walkout decision by T-Series was a "business decision by both the parties", said Vinod Bhanushali, T-Series president, marketing media publishing (TV).

While Percept's first payment of Rs 50 lakh was received by T-Series, the second and final cheque of around Rs 6.67 crore was dishonoured by the bank, the statement said.

"They were supposed to pay us as per a contract signed by both, and since the cheque for the final amount has bounced, we are legally again the co-producers of the film," Bhanushali said.

"It's a case of cheating. We have the right to move court over the cheque bounce," he said.

"We are sure to get a stay over the release of the film until the matter is sorted out." The film is scheduled for release April 3, 2009.

Mystic-masala flick with ‘Aa Dekhen Zara’ get ready

2009-03-26T23:56:00.000-07:00

With movies like ‘13B’, ‘Aa Dekhen Zara’ and the upcoming ‘8X10 Tasveer,’ it seems Bollywood has been bitten by the science fiction and supernatural bug leading to a series of flicks based on the paranormal experiences. Post ‘13B’, its turn of Jehangir Surti’s ‘Aa Dekhen Zara’ starring Neil Nitin Mukesh and Bipasha Basu is a racy thriller that revolves around a camera that has the ability to capture future in its images.

With not much work in hand, Ray spends his time talking to pigeons or watching Simi – a svelte next door DJ as a voyeur. In one such moment, Ray clicks Simi’s picture with his old camera only to find her photo depicting her being shot down in a bar!

This newfound mystery gives a new twist to an otherwise droning life of Ray where he gets into some real action in order to save the life of his love. Indeed, the camera is not just used to save Simi’s life as Ray plans of raking millions by picturing race horses and lottery tickets in order to predict their future. With his almost ‘magical’ camera, it does not take too long for the baddies to know his whereabouts and hunt for his supernatural camera.

Ray’s problems does not end here as he has to save himself from shooter (Rahul Dev) and fraud RAW agents in Bangkok but also escape his own future as portrayed by the camera!

‘Aa Dekhen Zara’ is a fast pace action thriller that keeps the audience hooked to their seats. As a concept, ‘Aa Dekhen Zara’ is a refreshingly new take on paranormal experience. In totality, ‘Aa Dekhen Zara’ is an engrossing flick that has a good plot, story line and a perfect climax that makes a perfect ‘masala’ flick.

Neil is seen in action after a long break post his successful maiden venture ‘Johnny Gaddar’ once again delivers a power packed performance. Neil is successful in portraying his character with perfect élan so is the bong babe Bipasha. Both Bipasha and Neil create a sizzling chemistry that translates well on the silver screen too. With Neil’s crooning the title track already making the waves, the movie is a sure hit!

Watch Kareena's kiss to Sylvester infuriates Saif Ali Khan

2009-03-24T13:24:00.000-07:00

Kareena's kiss to Sylvester infuriates Saif Ali Khan

Ekta avoids Dilip Kumar's character

2009-03-24T13:23:00.000-07:00

Ekta Kapoor's Once Upon A Time In Mumbai, which is based on the life of the late don Haji Mastan, has already run into controversial waters with his family filing a case against her production House. Now, Ekta wants to avoid more controversy.

The latest is that the character of legendary actor Dilip Kumar, believed to be a good friend of Haji Mastan (Ajay Devgan's role in the film is based on him), has been completely deleted from the script.

Says a source in Balaji, "Ekta, Balaji, director Milan Luthria and the creative team took a decision to drop Dilip Kumar's character completely from the screenplay though he was known to be a close friend of Haji Mastan. It was also believed that Haji's entry into Bollywood was facilitated by Dilip Kumar. Portraying all this would have created too much controversy, which is why we decided to drop his character."

The source adds, "It is generally accepted that Haji Mastan was the first celebrity don in India. Apart from Dilip Kumar, Shashi Kapoor and Mukri were also believed to be friends with Mastan. Dilip Kumar's friend Mukri, the actor, was to produce a film starring Haji Mastan, which was to be based on the don's life. However, the project never got completed for some reason."