Ranbirs Comments on Katrina Kaif

Who is this fellow, that too a Bollywood hunk, who believes that Katrina Kaif is a “treat”? Well, he is none other than Kapoor scion Ranbir Kapoor, her co star in two forthcoming films. So, what’s brewing between Katrina and Ranbir?

The duo reportedly got so cozy on the sets of Rajkumar Santoshi’s ‘Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani’ that even the unit members found it difficult to digest and this was supposedly also the reason why Ranbir’s girl friend Deepika Padukone suddenly visited the sets of the film.

“With Ranbir, I can be myself. I guess it’s the age and the film’s a comedy, so the atmosphere on the sets was like that,” Katrina was quoted as saying. While for Ranbir, “She’s a treat”. Not only that, the cool dude and the gorgeous diva share a common secretary too.

So apart from the rom com Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani, which is slated for November 6 release, we are sure that the new ‘hot and happening’ on screen couple of Bollywood will rock the silver screen with their next film Rajneeti, a political thriller.

Wonder what Salman Khan and Deepika make of it all.

Actress Kangana Ranaut's confessions

Today, Bollywood’s latest glam doll and style diva is a confident lady who handles herself with élan. Dressed in a red mini-dress and black peep-toe heels, Kangna gave Hyderabad a taste of her outspoken nature and charisma.

Her first Telugu film with Prabhas is complete and geared up for release later next month. Though not familiar with the language, the actor is quite happy with the end result. “I had to work extra hard for my Telugu film, and I’m happy with the way it’s turned out,” says Kangna. For someone known for giving powerhouse performances consistently, language did not prove to be a barrier. “Whenever I was given the script, it was translated to me in either Hindi or English. This helped me understand the lines and get the emotions right,” says the actor.

What comes as a surprise is that Kangna chose to do a Telugu film at a time when her kitty is filled with interesting Hindi projects, like Kites. “Well, I believe in multi-tasking. Moreover I don’t have to bother about my dates as my manager is there do take care of that,” she says. So what exactly made her accept this offer? “I’ve known Puri (Jagannath) for a long time. He offered me Pokiri earlier, but I couldn’t do the film as I was busy with Gangster. He later approached me with this script. I liked it and managed to find time, so here I am, acting opposite Prabhas,” avers Kangna.

So is she trying to widen her appeal in areas that are known to idolise their regional cinema idols? “Look, I’m not that intelligent. I don’t understand ‘numbers’ and ‘markets’ and stuff like that. I only understand cinema and me doing any film - be it regional or Hindi - solely depends on the script.”

With the Filmfare award for best supporting actor (female), for Fashion safely tucked under her belt, Kangna is indeed one of the most sought after leading ladies in Bollywood. Her fresh-faced appeal and no-holds barred acting has won over many a hardened critic. But the lady chooses not to pays heed to the film ‘pundits’. “Given an option, I would choose a blockbuster over critical acclaim. Critics are just a handful of people who look too deep into the nitty-gritties of cinema. They forget to enjoy the fun aspect of the film. The audience watches films to be entertained. They don’t sit in theatres to scrutinise the technical aspects that go into filmmaking. So, I would rather make films to please those million instead of making movies for a bunch of people,” confesses the actor.

For someone from a non-filmi background, Kangna is slowly getting a stronger foothold in an industry that is unforgiving towards slips. “Everyone makes mistakes. Sometimes your film works and at times it doesn’t. But what’s important is that your efforts are honest,” she says.

Though just a few years old in the industry, the actor has already stared dreaming of directing a film someday. “I’m quite familiar with the process of filmmaking. I will surely direct a movie someday. But right now, I have no such defined career-path.” Her cinematic dreams not withstanding, Kangna does not shy away from mentioning her humble beginnings. “I’m a simple girl from a small town like Manali. I was plucked from anonymity and stardom happened. I try to make movies that appeal to people like my brother and his friends who only care about entertainment and nothing more. But most importantly, I don’t forget my roots. It helps me stay grounded.

Bollywood Actress Bipasha Basu groped during Durga puja

When Bipasha Basu, a true-blue Bengali decided to take part in the on-going Durga Puja festivities with boyfriend John Abraham, the last thing she expected was to be sexually groped by a sick minded stranger. The actress had a horrifying time when she was at The North Bombay Sarvojonin Durga Puja at Santacruz on Saturday evening. Not one to take things lying down, Bipasha was furious when John took her away from the scene. Incidentally, this Durga Puja pandal is now being managed by Rani Mukerji’s family.

Commenting on what exactly happened, a source present at the event said, “Bipasha and John came together for the Durga Puja in the evening and Bipasha was very excited as has always been part of Durga Pujas in Mumbai over the years. Just after the darshan, she was near the stage when someone pervert groped her breasts. Bipasha, of course, was taken aback and flew into a fit of rage. People around her tried to calm her down. John too was present there and he whisked her away to calm her down. She even wanted to lodge a police complaint. However, she had second thoughts. As for the sick man, he quietly and promptly ran away, taking advantage of the commotion.”

Shah Rukh and Rituparna Sengupta to tie the knot

Fikar not, this knot is not going to be tied in real life. Bollywood's King Shah Rukh Khan and Tollywood Queen would be playing husband and wife in an ad film for Emami's Chyawanprash, for which they are going to be shooting in Mumbai's Film City.

SRK plays a commoner in the ad and Rituparna is his wife. And, of course, it's the chyawanprash that keeps them together.

Well, SRK and Rituparna have a connection, Rituparna is doing a film called SRK with Vinay Pathak and she even cheered his Kolkata Knight Riders in the first IPL season.

Now that she is working with him, she is highly excited and nervous The ad film will be directed by Ram Madhvani of Equinox FIlms, who directed the song 'Bheja kum' in Taare Zameen Par. Madhvani admits that he is looking forward to working with the Bong beauty for the first time.

The ad will be on-air October end. Rituparna who is very excited says, "I was the brand ambassador of Emami Boroplus for Eastern Region, and now also I am shooting for Emami.

I had met SRK, a couple of times during the IPL Knight Riders Match in Kolkata. Actually, I was invited to see the match. That time we had lots of fun. This time too, I am very excited."

Ref: http://www.santabanta.com/cinema.asp?pid=31614

What's Your Raashee? : Movie Review by Taran Adarsh Bollywood Hungama

Let's come to the point straight away. When you've films like LAGAAN, SWADES and JODHAA AKBAR to your credit, every step you take, every move you make comes under a microscopic view. Naturally then, the expectations from Ashutosh Gowariker's WHAT'S YOUR RAASHEE? are monumental.

There's another reason why WHAT'S YOUR RAASHEE? is special. Casting the same actor in 12 different roles is nothing short of a challenge - for the film-maker, for the writer and also for the actor in question. 

Now let's analyze. WHAT'S YOUR RAASHEE? works in parts. There are 12 raashees, which means 12 independent stories, plus there's a story of the dulha [Harman Baweja] and his family as well, also there's a story of a family-friend [Darshan Jariwala] running concurrently. That makes it 14 stories, 13 songs, approx. 3.20 hours running time...

Now to the vital question: Does WHAT'S YOUR RAASHEE? work?

Let me answer this question by raising a vital point. Did the running time [of 3 + hours] of SHOLAY, HUM AAPKE HAIN KOUN, LAGAAN, JODHAA AKBAR and GHAJINI bother you? I am sure, it didn't. The problem with WHAT'S YOUR RAASHEE? is not its length/running time. The problem is its content.

If any film stands on a weak foundation [writing], even 1.30 hours seem never-ending. Conversely, if the writing is power-packed, even 3.30 hours of entertainment seems less. Let's not blame the length, for the biggest grosser of the world to date - TITANIC - also had a running time of 3.17 hours.

WHAT'S YOUR RAASHEE?, unfortunately, lacks the power to keep you hooked and that's the prime reason why its running time/length is sure to be criticised.

Oh yes, WHAT'S YOUR RAASHEE? has some wonderful moments and award-worthy performance[s] by Priyanka Chopra, but everything pales into insignificance when the written material is weak.

To cut a long story short, WHAT'S YOUR RAASHEE? is a king-sized disappointment from one of the finest storytellers of India.

WHAT'S YOUR RAASHEE? is the story of Yogesh Patel [Harman Baweja], a young man who, in his heart, has always wanted a love marriage. Till suddenly he is told that he must find his dream girl within ten days to save his family from utter ruin. Finding the dream girl is tough enough. Finding her in a hurry is even tougher.

His solution is simple; he will meet one girl from each raashee - sun sign, as he feels that is the best way to make sure he finds a suitable wife, while also giving himself twelve chances to fall in love. Two meetings per day gives him six days to meet them, three days to make the final decision and he can get married on the tenth day, or so he thinks.

Based on the novel 'Kimball Ravenswood' by Madhu Rye, the concept of WHAT'S YOUR RAASHEE? is interesting, but the big screen adaptation isn't. To start with, you connect with barely a few stories, mainly the one who has a past and also the final one, of an underage girl. But several stories appear ridiculous and hence, ruin the impact generated by several wonderful moments. The jeweller's daughter, who believes in punar janam, falls flat. Ditto for the other jeweller's daughter, who pretends to be childish so as to test the intentions of the dulha. It's farcical. But the most ludicrous one is the businesswoman who has a pre-nuptial agreement in place, even before meeting the dulha.

Even Darshan Jariwala's track, towards the end specifically, tests the patience of the viewer. The detective drama is also ludicrous. Besides, the climax is far from convincing. The nanaji appears suddenly with a bagful of currency and the dues of the moneylenders and goons are settled soon after the saat pheras. How convenient!

Even the choice of the girl is debatable, since she has chosen him on a rebound [when she found that her lover was cheating on her]. In fact, the dulha had, rightfully, thought of the girl with the past and should've settled with her instead. That would've been a convincing finale.

Ashutosh Gowariker gets it wrong this time thanks to the poor screenplay. The writing is the biggest culprit here. Sohail Sen's music is easy on the ears, but why so many songs? A few songs can easily be deleted. Piyush Shah's cinematography is perfect.

WHAT'S YOUR RAASHEE? belongs to Priyanka Chopra. No two opinions on that. Words would fail to do justice to the remarkable portrayal of twelve different characters by this actor. This is her finest work to date. Harman is extremely likable and enacts his part with complete understanding. Darshan Jariwala is alright. Anjan Srivastava is as usual. Visshwa Badola is first-rate. Pratik Dixit does well.

On the whole, WHAT'S YOUR RAASHEE? is a king-sized disappointment.

 

Riya Sen spotted with a new man

Riya Sen was recently spotted with a new guy at two separate events in the past few days. First, at Salman Khan's Eid party; then at the ongoing fashion week in Mumbai.

Reveals a source, "Riya has just met this guy. Not much is known about him. But the couple seems to have hit it off very well and that's the only reason Riya is tagging him along everywhere she goes. They were seen constantly holding hands and appeared quite close after dashing out of Salman's Eid party."

Riya maintains, "I'm not dating anyone. I was with my friend Aushima and two of our very close childhood friends. Also, if I do start dating someone, I won't be embarrassed and hide it."

When asked about the new guy she was snapped in the backseat of a car with, she retorts, "Must be a family friend; why? I don't know what picture are you talking about. Relax. I am single and happy being so."

Salman invites SRK's close pals Farah, K Jo to WANTED Success party

By: Upala KBR & Tushar Joshi

Salman Khan is in the mood to flex his muscles after the success of Wanted. The actor, along with producer Boney Kapoor, is hosting a huge bash to celebrate the film's tingling box-office collections at a Juhu nightspot.

This will be a show of strength for the actor who divided B-Town after his feud with SRK at his girlfriend, Katrina's birthday party in July 2008.

Who's in, who's not
A source says, "Salman is thrilled with Wanted as it came after a spate of flops. He's keen to have a party inviting many people from the industry. Sallu had invited almost the entire industry to Katrina Kaif's bash last year and everyone had turned up. It's now his turn to see who his real friends are.

Interestingly, Shah Rukh's close friends Karan Johar and Farah Khan are also on his list of invitees. Salman is planning to invite almost everyone - including Sanjay Dutt and Akshay Kumar. Of course, we know that Shah Rukh Khan, the Bachchans and Vivek Oberoi won't be part of the guest list."

Katrina flew in to Mumbai from Bhopal (where she was shooting for Rajniti) to celebrate Eid with Sallu and his family. She is expected to extend her holiday and stay back a day for Khan's party.

Boney, while confirming the party says, "We haven't decided the venue as yet. We will invite those people who have been our support throughout." When asked if they were planning to invite the whole industry, he says, "It depends on the kind of venue we get. If it's a large venue, we will invite as many people as possible."

However, the source insists, "They have already finalised one of the happening nightspots in Juhu. The party is on schedule tomorrow. Salman has personally spoken to the chef and ordered some of his favourite dishes like chicken tikka, tandoori and kebabs. There will also be a lavish spread for those who prefer vegetarian food.

The DJ will play hits from Wanted as well his previous releases." Talking about the food, the source adds, "It will be a daawat for everyone. Salman is calling it a victory bash and will have made-to-order dishes that include lot of barbeques and grilled stuff."

Salman was initially planning to cordon off the sea-facing wooden bar where only he and a few close friends could chill. However, he gave it up after realising that other guests might not like it.

Hit hai
When quizzed about how much Wanted has made at the box office at gross value, Boney says, "I don't discuss gross figures as they are confusing.

Wanted is a superhit and the distributors in India should make more than Rs 40 crore after paying for theatres rentals and other overhead charges. While in India, Wanted is one of the three biggest hits in the last three years, in Pakistan, it's the biggest hit amongst all the Hindi films ever released there."

Ref : http://www.santabanta.com/cinema.asp?pid=31510

Sherlyn Chopra Sexy Wallpapers

Online fraud in the name of Sushmita

Says the actress, whose impersonator has been asking people for cash and cheques online Sushmita Sen who is by now used to being impersonated on the social networking websites has now woken up to a horror beyond the expected.

An impersonator of the actress on Facebook has actually started asking for money in her name for charity. Sen is far from amused, "It's not a game. My impersonator has even opened an account http://www.sushmita-sen.com/ where charitable Facebook participants can donate money."

The actress who admittedly is not net-savvy, is appalled by the liberties that are being taken, "I've been smiling a little indulgently at all these fake Sushmita Sens on Facebook and Twitter.

I thought as long as they were not harming me, let them have fun. But now when someone decides to open a charitable account on my behalf it's time to get up and do something to stop people."


Sushmita got to know of the imposter's monetary maneuvers only when friends called to ask how many zeroes they should put on their cheques. "I was zapped! I was like... huh! I do love giving to charitable causes, but not in this tacky way.

Whoever has the nerve to ask for money and open a website for the purpose trusted in my charitable instincts a bit too much." The actress wants to make it clear that she is in no way associated with the Sushmita Sen asking people for money online, "Let me make it very clear.

I am not on Facebook, Twitter or anything. And I'm certainly not into asking for money for charity on the internet. Hey guys, that's not me!"

Neighbour's complain about Sanjay Dutt

An irate neighbour called the police on being disturbed by the loud music during a Mata ki chowki at Sanjay Dutt’s residence...

Sanjay Dutt seems to have got a bit carried away during the Mata ki chowki celebrations at his Pali Hill residence, Imperial Heights on Saturday evening. The loud music, which was being played well past midnight, troubled his neighbours to an extent that one of them called the cops and lodged a complaint. The incident in question happened at 12.30 am.

Senior Inspector (Khar), Ajit Sawant, confirmed that there was a complaint filed by one of Sanjay's neighbours about the loud music. However, to the neighbour's disappointment, the police didn't find anything perturbing as the loud music had stopped by the time they reached the spot. “We did go, but when we reached there, we didn't find anything wrong,” said Sawant.

This is not the first time that there have been complaints about the way Sanjay celebrates special occasions at his residence. Earlier, a lady living in the same building clearly expressed her displeasure due to the commotion during the actor’s wedding anniversary bash in February this year.

Dharmendra charms the Ramp

Over the years many movie stars have attended the annual fund-raising for the Nargis Dutt Memorial Foundation's in New York. But it is difficult to imagine any of them creating the stir the producer and actorFor the star of some of the biggest hits in Indian movie history including Sholay and Phool Aur Patthar recalled his debt to Nargis Dutt and her husband.

If the new president of the organisation Kailash Sharma, whose daughter Richa Sharma was the daughter in law of Sunil Dutt, was thinking of a way to galvanise the foundation, he achieved it through Dharmendra's heartfelt address to dozens of the supporters of the event.

The 28th Annual Fundraising Dinner was held at Marriott Long Island, New York with a fashion show featuring Sahil's Timeless Fashion Show and themed Moulin Rouge to capture life in the legendary Paris club.

Dharmendra, who walked on the ramp, also wooed the audiences with his dances; the hit Mohammad Rafi number Main Jat Yamla Pagla Deewana from his own film Pratiggya played in the background as he danced.

Organisers said Bollywood actress and model Pooja Batra, brought glamour and energy to the show, especially as she sashayed with Bhavesh Patel, CEO of Sahil Collection.

Kareena Kapoor had a couple of surprises on her birthday!

By: Upala KBR

Kareena Kapoor had two great birthday surprises this year. The first was when Aamir Khan postponed their shoot for 3 Idiots from September 21 to 25 and then it got better when beau Saif Ali Khan flew in her mom and close friends to Udaipur where she was shooting for a magazine cover.

Last year too the actress was shooting on her birthday (September 21) for 3 Idiots. This year too, when the shooting was delayed, she accommodated and gave up her janam din date. When Aamir learnt about it, he requested Raj Kumar Hirani to postpone the shoot, ad let her have a free day.

Bebo was in Rajasthan on Saturday for a shoot and was to return later in the day. But that evening, Saif flew in and booked them into the Udai Vilas Palace Hotel.

Then on Sunday night, he surprised her further by flying in her best friend Reena, her designer Shabina Khan, some other close friends and her mom Babita to bring in her birthday.

Says a source close to the actress, "He had booked a suite and in true Saif style, he had it decorated it with candles, flowers and everything that she loves. Saif had recently taken her for a European holiday so Bebo wasn't expecting Saif to surprise her again, which he did!"

Ref : http://www.santabanta.com/cinema.asp?pid=31458

Madhuri Dixit was chosen over Aishwarya Rai

It was a battle between two very popular actresses, Madhuri Dixit and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in which the former has emerged a winner. Madhuri has joined several Bollywood stars to judge the reality show, Dance Premier League. Our source associated with the show said, “Madhuri and Aishwarya were both being considered to be the judge for one of the teams. Aishwarya lost out to Madhuri as she quoted an exorbitant amount of money. The makers of the show couldn’t afford her and the scales tipped in Madhuri’s favour as she had demanded an affordable price.”

Madhuri’s manager Riku Rakesh Nath said he could not reveal any details at this stage and said, “The discussion is still on.”

However, Danish Khan, VP Marketing of the channel admitted, “Yes, Madhuri has been chosen to represent one of the teams.” He refused to comment on the reason why Aishwarya lost out to Madhuri and said, “I don’t want to talk abut the money involved but Madhuri is definitely on board for Dance Premier League.”
Our source said, “Madhuri was far more affordable is the reason why Aishwarya lost out on the show. Aishwarya's price per episode is above 2 crore, while Madhuri can come in as low as 45 lakhs per episode. Also Aish didn't wanted to compete with Pa-Bachchan, whose show Big Boss will be aired on same time-slot.”

Sushmita Sen New Role model is Neeta Ambani

By: Subhash K Jha

In order to play the globetrotting, high-flying-tycoon- biwi in David Dhawan's Do Knot Disturb, Sushmita Sen has closely studied video footage of Neeta Ambani to familiarise herself with the body language, dress sense, and general demeanour of business magnate Mukesh Ambani's wife.

Sushmita's preparation as an actor did not end there. The villas and mansions that producer Vashu Bhagnani and director David Dhawan zeroed in on in England just didn't make the grade with the exacting Ms Sen.

Says Vashu, "None of the places we chose was spacious or sophisticated enough to be worthy of Sushmita's character.

She needed a house she could descend on in her own chopper. Her driveway needed space enough to park 12 of the world's swankiest cars. And her living-room space alone is 10, 000 square feet."

Sushmita had two pre-conditions before doing the film she wanted her tycoon act to be a world-class one and secondly, this time after Biwi No 1 where she played the other woman, she wanted to play the wife.

Says Vashu, "She was very clear. She wanted to play the kind of a strong assertive wife who's also a businesswo-man constantly on the move." Sush plays Kiran Saxena, Govinda's wife in the film.

Added Vashu, "When Sushmita enters a room, she looks naturally royal and classy. That's the quality we want in the character."

While art director Leela Chanda was instructed to construct a mansion in Delhi at a stone's throw from Rajiv Gandhi's farmhouse, Shahid Amir stepped in place of Sushmita's regular fashion designer Vikram Phadnis to do her styling.

Ref : http://www.santabanta.com/cinema.asp?pid=31412

Karisma kapoor is pregnant

According to sources close to the family, Karisma Kapur is having her second child. The actress, who is married to the Delhi businessman Sanjay Kapur already has a daughter Samaira, who is four. Lolo's younger sister Kareena is thrilled with the idea of becoming an aunt for the second time.

Says a source, "The actress was spotted with a baby bump at a suburban seven-star hotel in Bandra on Wednesday afternoon. Karisma was last seen at events a few weeks ago (she was last seen at Neetu Kapoor's mom's chautha) and has since then been keeping a low profile. She is now in her first trimester.

This is the happiest phase in her life. Samaira is growing up, her marriage (which ran into troubled waters a few years back) is in a happy place now and she is also keeping herself busy with endorsements. Sanjay and she feel that it was a good time to have another baby."

The source adds that sister Kareena is over the moon about Karisma's pregnancy. "Bebo loves children and dotes on her niece Samaira. She organises her birthday parties and always picks up gifts for her from abroad. She is also very close to her sister and can't wait to hold Lolo's second baby in her arms."

When asked about the sister's happy news, Kareena Kapoor says, "Who told you?" but refused to say anything after that. Karisma's father, Randhir Kapoor, who is currently in Russia, says, "I have no idea if Lolo is expecting or not. No one has told me as yet. I would be very happy if she is expecting."

Dil Bole Hadippa Movie Review By Taran Adarsh

Cricket, like Bollywood, is an addiction for a wide majority of Indians. DIL BOLE HADIPPA tries to capture the spirit of the game and the aspirations of a sportsperson, who's keen to play for her pind. On paper, the concept, which bears an uncanny resemblance to SHE'S THE MAN, sounds interesting, but the problem is its writing, which is tame and mediocre.

Let's elaborate. The plusses, first...
It's mandatory for cricket-based films like LAGAAN and VICTORY, which conclude with a cricket match, to have a thrilling finish. DIL BOLE HADIPPA too has a awe-inspiring end.
Also, the story of an ordinary girl who aspires to play cricket for the national team is motivating, with Rani Mukherji handling her part with complete understanding.

But there's a flipside too. The romantic moments between Rani and Shahid Kapoor lack fizz. Even the assorted characters in the film, like Sherlyn Chopra, Vrajesh Hirjee and Rakhi Sawant, contribute nothing to the film. They're mere props.

Final word? You expect DIL BOLE HADIPPA to score a century, like several films churned out by Yash Raj. But it settles down in the half-century range. Strictly average! 

Veera [Rani Mukherji] is a fire-cracker of a girl who lives in a small village, but chases big dreams. She works in a local theatre group, but dreams of playing cricket in the big league. Yes, believe it or not, she wants to play with Tendulkar and Dhoni for India.


While Veera dreams on in India, Rohan [Shahid Kapoor] is an accomplished captain of a county cricket team in England. Rohan returns to India to captain his father's cricket team, which has been losing consecutively for the last 8 years.


In a village where girls don't play cricket, Veera has to put on a turban and beard and become a man to fulfil her dreams. Her brilliance on the field earns her a place in Rohan's team and Veera Kaur becomes Veer Pratap Singh. But what happens when the secret is out?


DIL BOLE HADIPPA has a patchy script. It's interesting initially, but takes the beaten path later. Rani's obsession for cricket is well established at the outset. So is the friendship between Anupam Kher and Dalip Tahil [who heads the Pakistani team]. Also, the initial scenes between Anupam and Shahid are well integrated in the story.


The film shows promise when Rani transforms from Veera to Veer. All this happens in the initial 20-25 minutes, but the story comes to a screeching halt thereafter.


Problem begins... Shahid loses his heart to Rani and the film suddenly turns into a love story. Sherlyn surfaces in between to spice up the proceedings, but nothing happens. The conflict during the finale - when Shahid learns the truth - doesn't make the desired impact either. Even the re-emergence of the mother [Poonam Dhillon] in the story looks like a complete compromise from the writing point of view.


However, the match between the Indian and Pakistani teams in the climax is well executed and though the viewer is well aware what the ending would be, it keeps you hooked nonetheless. Unfortunately, the final speech by Rani [after the match is won] is outright predictable. The film would've benefitted with an innovative end.


Anurag Singh shows sparks of brilliance at times, but how one wishes the debutante director and his writers would've come up with a solid script. Pritam's music doesn't help either. Barring the title track, the balance songs are plain average. Cinematography is nice.


DIL BOLE HADIPPA belongs to Rani and as always, she delivers a sparkling performance as Veera as well as Veer, carrying both the roles effortlessly. Shahid plays second fiddle to Rani, which is very surprising. Nevertheless, he enacts his part well. Anupam Kher and Dalip Tahil lend decent support. Poonam Dhillon has nothing to do. Rakhi Sawant and Sherlyn Chopra are wasted. Vrajesh Hirjee is passable. Shri Vallabh Vyas does well.


On the whole, DIL BOLE HADIPPA is an ordinary fare. At the box-office, the film has some chances in North mainly thanks to the Punjabi flavour. The holidays ahead may help its prospects at plexes essentially, but the single screens will be dull.

Katrina Kaif fan commits suicide

Unable to meet his favourite actress Katrina Kaif in Bhopal a 24-year old man allegedly committed suicide.

The man named Motilal was part of a large group that had gathered at the location of the shooting for Prakash Jha's Rajneeti on September 5.

When he was denied permission to meet Katrina he jumped into a nearby lake and killed himself. No suicide note was found. But onlookers heard him shout Katrina's name while taking the fatal plunge.

When asked about the incident Katrina says, "I heard something like this happened. I am not sure of what it was. It's a police matter so I am not getting into it. I don't know why the man killed himself."

Adds Prakash Jha, "We did hear about this. We don't know what happened to the man. How can we be aware of what the onlookers are up to?

"However Jha met the senior cops in Bhopal and the matter has been sorted out. However Katrina who seems to have unwittingly provoked this suicidal adulation is none too pleased with fan zeal.

"I love attention. But only within limits. Besotted male fans is another are scary beyond a point, " shudders Katrina.

From : http://www.santabanta.com/cinema.asp?pid=31378

Salman Khans "Wanted" Movie Review by Taran Adarsh

This is for fans and foes of Salman Khan...
Fans, rejoice, Salman is back with a vengeance with WANTED. This is his deadliest performance to date. Yes, you read it right!
Foes, sorry, you won't be able to lash out at him or pick on him or launch a vicious tirade this time. The spate of flops should come to a grinding halt with WANTED.

Let's get this straight. WANTED rides on Salman Khan's star power. He may not be the best actor in town, but in a film like WANTED, in a role that seems like an extension of his personality, you can't think of anyone else enacting this role with flourish. 

A remake of POKIRI [made in Telugu and Tamil versions], WANTED is a full on masala film. Recall the successful potboilers of yore. Recall how the good guy would reduce 10 hoodlums to pulp in a fraction of seconds. Recall how heroism prevailed in the end, no matter how adverse the circumstances were or how powerful the villains would be. Recall those movies in which logic took a backseat since the focus was on entertainment... You relive those moments as reel after reel of WANTED unfolds.

A departure from candyfloss movies and diabetic-sweet characters that most Hindi movies boast of, WANTED takes you back to those days when popular cinema reigned supreme, when the sole motive of the film-maker was to entertain.

The daring hero and his herogiri, the naïve girlfriend, the corrupt cop, the dreaded don, the don's moll, the fist-clinching henchmen... WANTED is for those who seek unabashed entertainment and relish masala films. Damn the indomitable critics, pseudo intellectuals and connoisseurs of parallel cinema, this one's not for them. WANTED is for the aam junta.

Radhe [Salman Khan] is a hardcore gangster. A sharpshooter with a sharp brain, he works for Gani Bhai [Prakash Raj], the dreaded Mafioso, but on his own terms. Totally fearless, Radhe single-handedly eliminates Gani Bhai's enemies one by one; making more enemies in the process.

He's astounded when the young and pretty Jahnvi [Ayesha Takia Azmi] professes her liking for him. Inspector Talpade's [Mahesh Manjrekar] lustful eyes fall on Jahnvi. He doesn't know that Jahnvi has developed a soft corner for Radhe.

Whether it's the Golden Gang or Data Pawle's Gang, everybody wants the biggest piece of the lucrative cake that is Mumbai and the only way to get it is to eliminate whoever gets in the way. As Mumbai reels under bloody gang wars, Commissioner Ashraf Khan [Govind Namdeo] vows to make the city crime free.

Director Prabhu Dheva serves a hardcore masala fare that's not inventive or path-breaking by any standard, but the execution of several scenes as also of stunts takes the graph of the film Northward. In fact, if at all there's any film that competes with GHAJINI as far as raw appeal goes, it's WANTED. Every action/stunt/chase here is choreographed with aplomb.

Watch out for the action sequence at the interval point or the penultimate half-an-hour. The climax is sure to send scores of action lovers in frenzy, as Salman bashes the evil forces black and blue. It wouldn't be erroneous to state that the climax is worth the price of the ticket, samosa, sandwich, popcorn, nachos and cola put together.

Not that this 18 reeler abounds in mindless action. As mentioned earlier, this one's a hardcore masala film and the narrative has its share of light moments and romantic sequences. Even the bad man here makes you laugh intermittently [when he's not spewing venom], especially in the sequence when the Commissioner of Police holds him captive in the middle of the sea. Even the romance between Salman and Ayesha charms its way into your heart. It's very likable.

But WANTED is not without its share of flaws. The film stands on a thin storyline and the viewer can guess what's in store next, which means that there's not much novelty in the plot. Besides, WANTED could've done without a song or two, thereby keeping its length in check.

Director Prabhu Dheva has presented Salman like never before. Most actors have drifted away from roles that hold tremendous mass appeal, that cater to the desi audience, like they did in the 1980s. SRK did it in OM SHANTI OM, Aamir Khan did it in GHAJINI and Salman does it so effortlessly in WANTED. The screenplay [Shiraz Ahmed] may not be foolproof, but it has its share of shining moments. Dialogues are clapworthy, especially those delivered by Salman.

Sajid-Wajid's music is of a mixed variety. 'Jalwa' is the best of the lot and the star presence of Anil Kapoor, Govinda and also Prabhu Dheva in this track will send the viewers into raptures. The remaining tracks oscillate between good and strictly okay. This review would be incomplete without the invaluable contribution by the action director. It deserves brownie points. Cinematography too is top notch.

Salman is like a ferocious lion who roars with all his might. The show belongs to the actor, who scorches the screen every time he displays the manic anger. Without doubt, Salman gives the power to WANTED. It's his best work to date.

Ayesha Takia Azmi is very good and the pairing with Salman looks wonderful. Vinod Khanna is sidelined. He deserved more footage. Mahesh Manjrekar is excellent. He's only getting better with every film. Prakash Raj is first-rate. The accomplished actor adds yet another feather to his cap. Govind Namdeo is perfect.

Mahek Chahal radiates oomph. Aseem Merchant is alright. Raju Mavani is effective. Inder Kumar and Sajid are okay. Manoj Pahwa tries hard to make you laugh. Prateeksha Lonkar is as usual.

On the whole, WANTED rides on Salman, Salman and only Salman Khan's star power. A masala film that's aimed at the masses, WANTED is backed by tremendous hype and hoopla, which will result in the film taking an earth-shattering start at the ticket window. The Idd celebrations in the coming days will only enhance the business of the film, which means that the film will have a solid Week 1. The holidays in Week 2 should also be bountiful, thereby ensuring a strong place in the 'Hit' category.

 

Abhishek Bachchan calls for his Lexus to Nashik, on Raavan location

Mani Ratnam might be shooting for Raavan in one of the most beautiful and finest locations but the cast and crew are having a tough time reaching the shooting site. Abhishek Bachchan, therefore, has called for his Lexus all the way to Nashik so that he can travel with his wife through all the bad and foggy roads.

A source from the unit reveals, "We are currently shooting in Malshej Ghats, on Pune-Nashik highway. The place we all are put up in is an hour away from the location. The entire unit with the cast travels for more than an hour to reach the location. Abhishek wasn't happy with the car provided to them for their journey back and fro. He called for his Lexus (SUV) and drives it with his wife Aishwarya to the shoot."

The source continues, "The roads are very terrible and there is too much of fog on the way while driving. AB junior manages to drive on the awful roads and reaches on time too. This is a month long schedule and has the Bachchan duo, Ravi Kishan, Nikhil Dwivedi along with the South actors.

Rani Mukerjee asks fans to watch Salman's 'WANTED' Movie

Bollywood stars Rani Mukherji and Salman Khan may be vying for the audience attention as both of their releases 'Dil Bole Hadippa' and 'Wanted' clash this Friday but the actress is determined not to let that come between their friendship.

The actress, who is making a comeback on the big screen after a gap of one year, has been on a whirlwind tour along with costar Shahid Kapoor promoting their film in Toronto, London, Mumbai and Delhi.

However Rani's friendship with Salman seems to be above all as the actress has asked her loyal fans to go ahead and watch 'Wanted'.

"I would request all my fans to please go and see 'Wanted'. Salman is such a dear friend and we both are excited about each other's film and eager to watch them soon," Rani said on the sidelines of her film's promotional event at Big Cinema's Odeon here.

While Rani-Shahid starrer 'Dil Bole Hadippa' is a out-an-out "Bollywood masala" film, Salman's 'Wanted', which also marks the direction debut of ace choreographer Prabhudeva is an action flick.

The actress said that she is sure that there is definite audience for both the films and hopefully they will be well received by the viewers.

"It is a festive season when people are looking forward to go out with family and have some fun. I am sure both of our films will have their loyal audience. I hope they both are liked by them," Rani added.

My cheque bounced, so I quit Aap Ke Liye Hum: Urvashi Sharma

Actress Urvashi Sharma opted out of Aap Ke Liye Hum because her cheque bounced, but director Revathy Varma alleges that she threw star tantrums and was therefore replaced by Vidya Malvade.

"I can't understand how I can be accused of unprofessionalism when the makers of this film have been the most unprofessional. Their very first cheque bounced even before the first schedule," Urvashi said.

"This wouldn't happen to Jayaji's (Jaya Bachchan) cheque because she's a legend, or Raveena Tandon or Ayesha Takiya because they're both established names. Only my cheque bounced. Why?"

R. Madhavan, who had opted out of Aap Ke Liye Hum, returned after he being paid a whopping Rs.1 crore for a small part in the women-centric film that has Jaya, Ayesha and Raveena in lead roles.

The film is about an 'adopted' mother abandoned by her son, played by Ranvir Shorey who was the last to join the cast. Now Ranvir's wife's role will be played by Vidya Malvade, last seen as Sanjay Dutt's wife in Kidnap.

Urvashi, however, absolves the director of all blame. "I've nothing against Revathy. I blame the producers for being so unprofessional."

Though Urvashi has no grudge against Varma, the director is not only upset with her but also with Sonal Chauhan for spreading false rumours about the project.

"Sonal was never approached for Ayesha's role. She was asked to do Urvashi's role. When she opted out we asked Priyanka Kothari who loved the character, but somehow it didn't work out. Now we've got Vidya Malvade to do it. I wish people would let me make my film in peace.

"Urvashi behaved as though she's a big star. We couldn't really afford her tantrums," said Varma.

Ranbir Kapoor forgets Deepika Padukone!

Apparently, Ranbir Kapoor is choosy when it comes to following his co-stars in tinsel town.

Apparently Ranbir is keeping up with his fans on social networking site Twitter, and is also following some B-Town celebs on Twitter. But what is taking everyone by surprise is- he has not yet followed his ladylove Deepika Padukone who has been twittering much before he started!

The privileged celebs that are on Ranbir’s mind- Mallika Sherawat, Preity Zinta and Sonam Kapoor. Yes! You read it right, he has given a miss to his ladylove Deepika! On the other hand, Deepika does keep a track on her sweetheart, as she very much follows Ranbir on Twitter.

Mallika Sherawat, Preity Zinta and Sonam Kapoor, ahem! Ranbir seems to be really very choosy, but Deepika does he really have a choice here? Well, it seems yes, what do you have say on that Deepika?

Ref : http://www.santabanta.com/cinema.asp?pid=31338

Soha Shows of affection with Kunal In Public

By: Upala KBR and Tushar Joshi

On Tuesday night, at Salman's younger sister Arpita Khan's special preview of Wanted at Ketnav theatre, Soha Ali Khan turned up with beau Kunal Khemu. Nothing wrong with that but during the film, the couple indulged in a bit of PDA. And that didn't go down well with some of the other people present for the screening.

The special show was attended by Yuvraj Singh, Arjun Kapoor, and close friends of Arpita. Both Soha and Kunal are close friends of Arpita and were her guests at her Sallu bhaiyya's film trial.

Says an eye-witness, "Soha and Kunal came in holding hands and took up seats in the last row. Half an hour after half the lights dimmed, the couple began getting cosy with each other, distracting people sitting around them.

There was also some giggles emanating from near them, and this made people sitting ahead of them, turn around to see what the commotion was about." According to the eye-witness, during the interval, hostess Arpita requested the couple to take it down a notch, as people were getting disturbed.

But once the show began, the lovers went back to their antics. When asked about the incident, Arpita showed more interest in enquiring about the various ways to get the article dropped.

Then she said, "Let me talk to Soha and Kunal and let them know." Finally, she decided to give a clarification, "I was sitting with Soha and Kunal on the last row. No such incident took place at my trial. They both come from very respectable families and their privacy should be maintained as such. Such articles would cause a discomfort in our friendship."

Soha Ali Khan says, "I completely and vehemently deny it. It's a fabricated story. I'm a single professional and coming from the kind of family I do, I would never conduct myself in a public place like this.

There was absolutely no physical interaction between Kunal and me. In fact, a friend of mine, an entertainment lawyer, was sitting on my left. This kind of behaviour just doesn't go with my name or my family." Kunal Khemu remained unavailable for comment.

From : http://www.santabanta.com/cinema.asp?pid=31339

Patrick Swayze kissed Celina

I was around 14 years old when I happened to meet Patrick Swayze in Kolkata! I don’t remember exactly if he was in Kolkata for the shoot of ‘City of Joy’ or post the film’s release but I surely was the fortunate one to have met the actor who was then every girl’s heartthrob.

It was in Kolkata’s Oberoi Grand hotel where I met him. He was the reason why I wanted to attain stardom so badly. I walked up to him but couldn’t utter a word as I was a huge fan but I did ask for an autograph on my shirt to which he obliged. He also smiled and kissed me on my forehead. That very moment I wished I could just grow overnight and be the most beautiful woman on earth so that I could marry him. I still have that T-shirt. As a young girl who loved to dance, ‘Dirty Dancing’ was my bible.

For the past few years I was aware that Patrick was battling Cancer. It’s extremely difficult for an actor to deal with a disease as his life is always in the public eye. He fought Cancer beautifully and he will be missed.

I’ve heard Patrick also overcame alcohol addiction. I do realize now that he was drunk when I met him as well but he was never mean or rude to anyone. I wasn’t allowed in night clubs as I was 14 years old then but my cousins who visited ‘The Pink Elephant’ club in Kolkata often told me stories on how they’d find Patrick hanging out in the club. Even the press in Kolkata wrote a lot on his drinking but I am happy he overcame the addiction.

Even today I dance to the music of ‘Dirty Dancing’. Patrick Swayze will always be in my heart and I’ve been kissed by him....