Wednesday, May 4, 2011

First look of Salman-Katrina starrer 'Ek Tha Tiger' revealed

The first look of Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif starrer, ‘Ek Tha Tiger’ revealed. The film is a highly anticipated one following certain reasons, first it is a Yash raj banner film, secondly the film brings ex lovers Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif together for the first time.

Thirdly, it is Salman Khan’s debut venture with Yash Raj banner.  The first look of the film sees Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif in a very causal pose with formal wear. Sallu in a white shirt and blue jeans while Kat in a red outfit looks elegant and simple.

‘Ek Tha Tiger’ is a Kabir Khan’s flick whose last hit is ‘New York’ starring Katrina, John and Neil.

Girl injured while seeking Priyanka's autograph

A girl was injured at an award function last night, when she tried to get hold of Priyanka Chopra's autograph.

Apparently, she was violently pushed by security guards in charge of looking after the actress. The incident took place when a sea of mediapersons gheraoed PC and the security tried to get her out of the chaos. Why aren't events organised in a better way to avoid mishaps like this?

Saif's French Connection!

Saif Ali Khan has bought the rights of a French comic book that he wants to make into a film.

Unlike actors who like to keep their plans undercover, Saif confirms, "It is true. I have liked a French comic book character and I'm making a movie on it.

It's too early to reveal anything but this character has really blown me over. The detail, the story, everything is very edgy, very different from any other comic book character that I have come across." What's with Saif and cartoons? He is publishing a graphic novel on Agent Vinod and even Hum Tum had him narrate his life story with Rani Mukerji through a comic book series, and now this!

Tisca Chopra is back!

Tisca Chopra, the actress who shot to fame with her role in " Taare Zaameen Par", and who was last seen in Madhur Bhandarkar's " Dil Toh Bachcha Hai Ji".

Tisca Chopra will be seen playing a professor in director Prawaal Raman's upcoming flick "404".

Now, watch your favourite old movies online

Cinestes have never been so wooed. Yashraj Films have allowed online access to all fans to their old films, while Shemaroo is combining online access with DVD releases of its films.

Shemaroo will release its latest films--Dil To Baccha Hai Ji and Aakrosh--on its own online movie channel on You Tube on the same day as the DVD release of these films. The company will initially release 20 titles, including Dil Toh Bachcha Hai Ji, Dhamaal, Anwar and Fool-n-Final as well as all-time classics such as Anand, Mili, Golmaal, Teesri Kasam and The Great Gambler, under its new e-strategy.

Shemaroo Entertainment director Jai Maroo said, "With digital media spreading its wings globally, we can say that ours is the YouTube generation where one seeks a variety of content on a single platform. Keeping in step with the change in the entertainment consumption pattern, Shemaroo offers its consumers an array of video content of different genres like comedy, songs, short film and film scenes among others on multiple channels on YouTube."

Not only will movies be available to viewers on demand, but they will also be free of charge on their desk-top but also on their mobiles, tablets and I-pads.

Anushka Sharma's South call

Anushka Sharma has got a big casting call from Down South. She has been approached to share screen space with the South sensation Mahesh Babu in a film titled Ponniyun Selvan.

However, because the film is a two-heroine film, Anushka is not very keen on the offer. She is only interested in solo leads.

Why not? If three out of four of your films have done well, you can afford to be selective. Anushka is cashing in on the upswing. Smart.

Tusshar Kapoor is overworked!

Tusshar Kapoor's last release Shor In The City got a mixed response at the box office.

The actor is happy with his performance and the feedback he's been getting from fans and friends. And wile comments and compliments continue to flow in; Tush has already employed himself in the promotions of his next Love U... Mr Kalaakar.

And the work for the lad will not be over with the film's release. He will soon start shooting for Milan Luthria's Dirty Picture where he is paired opposite Vidya Balan. Talking about his hectic schedule, the actor wrote on his micro-blog, "Just got done with Shor In The City and now have to work as hard for LUMK."

It seems the actor will have to wait long till he gets a break.

I'm open to being called directly: Bina Kak

Salman Khan at Bina Kak’s daughter’s pre-wedding ceremony
Salman Khan at Bina Kak’s daughter’s pre-wedding ceremony
Jaipur is catching the fancy of filmmakers from across the globe for shooting. Picturesque forts and palaces, lakes, and havelis never fail to enchant with its amazing scenic beauty and attractions.

No wonder the shooting scenario in the Pink City, as it is popularly known as, has given a new dimension to the state economy, especially in the last three years. We spoke to Bina Kak, minister for tourism, art and culture on how the city, with its rich culture, architecture and picturesque locations, has always attracted filmmakers from all over the world. And how the trend, in the last three years, especially, has ensured revenue benefits. Not only that, for many stars and filmmakers, it's the bond that they share with this affable lady that brings them back.

"Shooting is not a new thing for Jaipur, but the growing trend in last couple of years has definitely provided a boost to Jaipur's tourism, has made it a must visit destination not only for the filmmakers, Bollywood as well as Hollywood, but also visitors," says Kak, who herself is an actor who has displayed her acting skills in a number of Bollywood films.

"The culturally rich backdrop of Jaipur has always fascinated national and international filmmakers. That apart, the state exudes hospitality and warmth for film crews. And we are proud to say that our Pink City is gearing up to handle further growth in this phenomenon. Even Hollywood has not missed the exotic locations of the city," says Kak. "We are ready to provide every possible facility to the cast and crew so that they can expand their base in the state," assures Kak, while appreciating the role played by Hindi films in making Jaipur a major tourist spot. She is also working at providing a one-window system for getting various department clearances related to film-shooting permissions at the state-owned monuments. "We have appointed an official who takes care of all their needs, including seeking administrative sanctions for using their cameras in any part of the state. If they want to shoot in traffic, or in a monument, we are ready to help them."

The new move will make it a smooth affair for the filmmakers to come and shoot their films in the city. The tourism department is willing to serve as a nodal agency to serve the purpose. Adds Kak, "Filmmakers who know me personally, thanks to my association with the industry, have also been approaching me for shoots. I am also open to calls directly."
Boost to ancillary industries...

Be it the IPL or Hollywood or Bollywood movies being shot here, it will help promote the city. "We want more and more such activities as there are lot of opportunities in this sector. And realising this, special efforts are being made to make it a regular feature of the city with the help of Film City project. Shooting scenario in the city has tremendously promoted ancillary industries like costume, jewellery, set making and many others in the city. Be it a carpenter, or a spot boy or artistes from the state, everybody gets a bigger platform in terms of monetary gains as well as to use it as a launchpad. It is not only to show off their creative skills but also to help generate additional revenue and provide employment," says Kak.

Shah Rukh Khan (SRK) too busy for Yash Chopra

Shah Rukh Khan fans have to wait for his next romantic flick which will be directed by Yash Chopra.

It is believed that the film has been postponed to December, thanks to his involvement in the ongoing IPL and his home production Ra.One. After IPL, Shah Rukh will be busy in the aggressive marketing and promotions of Ra.One, which releases in October. His Don 2 will be releasing in December too thus he will need time for its promotions as well.

According to a source, Yash Chopra who is back to direction after 7 years wants SRK to focus only on one project dedicatedly. Thus the film will commence on December 15 th . Very few know that YRF considers 6 as their lucky number thus the date 15 (1 + 5 = 6) has been chosen to kickstart the project.

This untitled romantic flick will bring Shah Rukh and Katrina Kaif together for the first time.

Mallika throws starry tantrums | Video News

Freida Pinto bares it all for a Hollywood film | Video News

'Ness Wadia, Preity Zinta patch up'

Ness Wadia and Preity Zinta kept their distance from each other after their split two years ago.

It was only natural. However, as they are also business partners (co-owners of the IPL team) they remained cordial. The interaction was more formal than friendly. But that has changed now. They are over the awkward phase after a break-up and have been ready to be friends again. The duo were spotted partying. They seemed totally relaxed and comfortable in each other's company. They have also been hanging out with mutual friends, which they'd stopped doing after they parted ways. Says an insider, "Things had become weird for a while. They'd decided to make a joint statement of their break-up, but things didn't go as planned. Preity was at a party when she was asked about Ness' whereabouts. Known to be frank, the actress blurted out that she had no clue. This instantly aroused the curiosity of her friends who were present and Preity admitted to them that she and Ness weren't dating anymore.

The news spread like wild fire and became the talk of the town the next day. Ness was upset because it was thrown at him out of the blue. He felt betrayed. He felt her declaration of 'I am single' was unnecessary, while she felt there was no point in putting up an act in front of friends when they weren't together anymore. They argued over this, and things soured between them. But now they are letting bygones be bygones. Like any mature adult would. Yes, ex-es can be friends. End of a relationship doesn't have to always end with the one-time lovers hating each other for life.

Shah Rukh Khan turns singer and lyricist

After displaying his vocal skills in the song "Apun Bola Tu MerI Laila" in " Josh", Shah Rukh Khan is once again crooning in his home production " Always Kabhi Kabhi".

Sources in Bollywood say that SRK has also contributed as a music composer and penned down few lines for an item number in his next film. SRK will also feature as an item boy for the same track which was shot at a lavish set in a suburban studio April end.

Red Chilies' film titled, "Always- Kabhi Kabhi" has been by anchor, radio jokey turned ad maker Roshan Abbas and the music is composed by Pritam Chakrobarty.

Sources say, "Both composer and filmmaker were stuck when SRK walked in and within no time the creative enzymes in the actor started following and a melody was conceived.
Shah Rukh also added some punch lines in the song giving it his trademark edginess".
"SRK is so spontaneous and lyrically strong that whenever we were stuck in a tune he instantly contributed with his creative inputs," says music director Pritam who has also worked with the actor during the making of "Billo".
The director Roshan Abbas concludes, "As you are aware SRK is immensely talented and has contributed in the production of the said item song. Pritam and I were hunting for a good track and it was SRK who created magic for us".

Kangna Ranaut ad shoot | Photo Gallery







Kangna Ranaut snapped during an ad shoot for a beauty product in Mumbai.

I'm going to be a housewife now: Kate

Newlywed Catherine, the new Duchess of Cambridge is reported to not become a full-time working royal for up to two years – because she wants to concentrate on being a housewife.

Meet: The Princess Bride
 
According to the UK tabloid Daily Mail, "Kate is refusing to conduct any public engagements without her husband for the foreseeable future. There are only two or three joint events pencilled in over the next couple of months and aides admit the new bride intends to spend most of her time with her husband on Anglesey."

The new wife of the second in line to the throne was reported to have told friends that "she wants to enjoy life for as long as she can as an 'ordinary RAF wife' in the rented farmhouse the couple share in North Wales."

William and Catherine: Official wedding portraits
 
But her approach is likely to provides ammunition for critics who have accused her of being 'work-shy'. Other than working for her family's party supplies business, Kate has had only one part-time job since she graduated from university in 2005, as an accessories buyer for the High Street firm Jigsaw.

Last year the Queen conducted 444 engagements while Prince Charles carried out 585 and Camilla 243. Prince William undertook 73.

The Daily Mail reported, "Prince William has a full-time job he has to work round and that is his priority. He is committed to it for at least another two years so nothing much will change in the immediate future, apart from the fact that he and Catherine will take part in the Queen's Diamond Jubilee celebrations next year. He is already committed to a number of charitable patronages and Catherine will, initially at least, support him in that as his wife. She will, in time, become associated with her own charities but this won't happen immediately as she wants to explore the fields that interest her first."

William & Kate: Official wedding photos | Photo Gallery

The backdrop is the same-the opulent red-and-gold decor of the grand Throne Room at Buckingham Palace. And the mischievous smiles on the faces of some of the bridesmaids and pageboys - and endearingly bewildered expressions on the others - are strikingly similar.

 But, 30 years after the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer, the official wedding picture of Prince William and Kate-now the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge-also reflects the differences between the two couples' relationships.

 The photograph of Charles and Diana, taken by Patrick Lichfield, seemed to capture a moment of spontaneous informality, with the wedding party collapsing in a fit of giggles. But, the warmth was not reflected in the marriage itself.

 By contrast, Kate and William's picture, by photographer Hugo Burnand, appears more formal, despite little Tom Pettifer's insistence on leaning in as close to the bride as possible, reports the Daily Mail. et, it is the small touches that are most telling.

 In Lichfield's picture, Charles looks curiously detached, but Kate and William's togetherness is plain to see.

 Despite the organised nature of their shot, they look relaxed, their smiles unforced, and her hand rests on his knee. (ANI)

Meet: The Princess Bride (Prince William And Kate Middleton) | Photo Gallery

Before a flawless exchange of vows, a veiled Middleton wearing a laced dress with a long train, the first "commoner" to marry a prince in close proximity to the throne in more than 350 years, walked slowly through the 1,900-strong congregation.

As they met at the altar William, second in line to the throne, whispered to her, prompting a smile. The Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams declared the couple married with the words: "I pronounce that they be man and wife together."

Tens of thousands of people thronging the streets outside cheered when they heard the words, and again as the newlyweds left the abbey in a 1902 open-topped state landau carriage bound for Buckingham Palace, the queen's London residence.

Huge cheering crowds strained to catch a glimpse of the beaming couple as well as the military bands in black bearskin hats and cavalrymen in shining breastplates who escorted them to the palace where they were expected to kiss on the balcony.

Middleton's dress, the subject of fevered speculation for months in the fashion press, was a traditional ivory silk and satin outfit with a lace applique and train.

It was designed by Sarah Burton of the Alexander McQueen label, named after the British designer who committed suicide.

The bride wore a tiara loaned by the queen and the diamond and sapphire engagement ring that belonged to William's mother Princess Diana, who was divorced from Prince Charles in 1996, a year before her death in a car crash in Paris aged just 36.

Middleton, the 29-year-old whose mother's family had coal mining roots, is a breath of fresh air for the monarchy, which has in the past been accused of being disconnected from ordinary Britons. She is seen as having the common touch.

The royals' cool reaction to Diana's 1997 death contrasted with an outpouring of public grief and marked a low point for the family. Some questioned whether the institution, a vestige of imperial glory, had outlived its unifying role in a modern state divided by partisan politics and regional separatism.

Thousands of people from around the globe were outside the abbey, many of them camping overnight for the best view of the future king and queen and fuelling the feel-good factor that has briefly lifted Britain from its economic gloom.

Kareena, Karisma in black & White

Karisma Kapoor, Randhir Kapoor, Babita, Kareena Kapoor
Karisma Kapoor, Randhir Kapoor, Babita, Kareena Kapoor 
This picture captured by veteran photographer Jagdish Aurangabadkar at a mahurat in RK Studios makes for the perfect family portrait.

Randhir Kapoor surrounded by the three women in his life, Babita, Karisma and the young Kareena in flowing long dresses, looks happy.

Taken probably during the 20-year-long separation between Babita and husband Randhir Kapoor, the picture talks a lot about the Kapoor family traditions that both hung on to even during the long years they stayed apart.

It is funny to see both Karisma and Kareena fully covered from neck to toe, whereas nowadays one hardly gets to see both the Kapoor sisters in that same avatar.

Emraan: Camera shy?

Emraan Hashmi may be busy shooting for his various movies, but when the actor wants to relax he heads out to catch a film.

We spotted him recently at a suburban multiples walking out after a movie. But the usually camera-friendly Emraan wasn't in a mood to smile for the camera. Why the nakhra, Emraan?

Yes I met Somy Ali: Salman

Post two consecutive money rakers Wanted and Dabangg, one would expect Salman Khan to now start having those starry airs. Looks like, he couldn't be bothered less.

While people may think that whom they see is a new, more focused, serious Salman, the star himself feels, "Stardom and all is bakwaas. I am and always will be the same. The only thing that has probably changed in me is that I have learnt to say 'No'."

Salman, who always stood by his friends, has now realised that even friends deserve to be told 'No' when required. "Gone are the days when I used to make a film and say 'chalta hai, sets pe dekh lenge, kuch bana denge' to friends who did not have a script. Give me a good script and I will do it," explains the actor.

However, the star sure has learnt to say a 'yes' to media. Salman, who never promoted his own films, did so for Wanted. And for his forthcoming film Ready, he has even designed the promotional events.

The actor who brought a graffiti covered bus to an event of the film recently, still chose to deny his new media savvy avatar, "I am bakofying, and you are chapoying. It's the release of my film. I am doing my job and you are doing yours. Solves the purpose for both of us."

With a lot of expectations pinned on Ready after the success of his last two films, the media promotion is understandable. "I just hope we stand up to the expectations. Everybody starts off wanting to make a successful film," says the actor.

Ready, the film has had its fair share of controversies as well. The fight between Salman and Anees Bazmee for instance. "It is all bulls***. he came back for the post production of Thank You. There is no fight," states Salman.

But then, one would wonder why he never chose to refute them? Was that too a part of the publicity? "Why should I clear rumours? It just takes my thumb to deny all rumours on Twitter. But I choose not to," declares Sallu bhai.

Leaving films aside, there have been constant speculations about his personal life as well. His meeting with ex-girlfriend Somy Ali hit the headlines a little over a month back. "Yes, I met her. She is my friend like many others.

They come to my house doesn't mean I am having an affair with them," says Sallu and adds, clearing the air about Kangna, "Kangna too, is my friend. She is very sweet."

Though, Salman understands how to be diplomatic about the women in his life, one thing he still hasn't learnt is the business of making a film, unlike his peers Aamir, Shah Rukh or Saif. "I don't want to understand the business.

Sohail does and so does my father. It will probably take me five minutes but if I understand, I will spend hours every day thinking about it. I am happy this way," reveals the actor.

Ratan Tata returns to entertainment industry "showbiz"

Ratan Tata wants to try his luck at the entertainment industry once again. The business tycoon whose first brush with Bollyland was with a box office dud titled Aetbaar (2004) starring Amitabh Bachchan, John Abraham and Bipasha Basu, now wants to make a comeback with a multi-pronged business plan. And it's not just films. He is also funding Broadway style musicals by casting desi talents.

His team has already met a few filmmakers and is also in talks with talents who can make edgy, emotional musicals.

Says an insider, "The Tatas are once again open to projects. They've met a couple of filmmakers, and these meetings have created quite a buzz in the industry, which is always looking at producers with deep pockets. One of the projects that they are considering is titled Nano." There is a lot of anticipation in the film industry with a big player like the Tatas returning to the entertainment space.

For the grand musical, Ratan Tata is in touch with a couple of musicians of Indian origin to make a sensitive, close-to-home Bollywood-style musical for the masses. Tatas will become the first Indian company to have ever funded a lavish and big budget musical, which will be staged globally. The scripting is currently on. Ratan is looking to rope in an exciting young talent for this. Wait for a formal announcement, which will come once the Tata succession issue ends and when the 2G scam, into which they were dragged is put to rest. Meanwhile sources confirm that the company has earmarked big budgets for
their plans.

Phalke award for Rani, Priyanka

Dharmendra and Priyanka Chopra

From veteran actor Dharmendra to newcomer Ranveer Singh - quite a few actors from the Hindi film industry were honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke Academy Awards Tuesday.

The event was attended by Rani Mukerji, Priyanka Chopra, Anushka Sharma, Sonakshi Sinha, Rekha and Asha Parekh, among others. However, Aamir Khan, who was supposed to attend the show, decided to skip it.

Dharmendra was bestowed with the Phalke Ratan, Asha Parekh received the legendary icon cine artist award, Rani got outstanding performance in the film award for "No One Killed Jessica" and Priyanka received memorable performance award for "7 Khoon Maaf".

"I felt really nice getting this award because this is an award from our industry. I'm very happy," Asha Parekh told reporters here.

Echoing a similar stance, Rani said: "This is my first award for 'Jessica...' and that too this award. So I'm very happy."

Anushka was honoured for the excellent performance in the film "Band Baaja Baarat" and her co-actor of the film got the best debut award.

"I'm truly elated and it's a very prestigious award because he is the visionary of the Indian film industry and to get such an honour at such a young age for me is extremely motivating and encouraging and I hope that whatever little I'm trying to do in the industry, if it makes even slightest of mark, it will make me happy," said Anushka.

Added Ranveer: "Quite clearly this is the most prestigious award that I've received till now. It's a very big day for me. Its amazing to be here and to be receiving this award."

The best debutant award was bagged by Sonakshi Sinha for "Dabangg" and Arbaaz Khan got the best debut producer award for the same film.

Veteran actor Dara Singh was also honoured with the senior most cine artist award.

While the men came dressed in suits, the actresses flaunted colourful saris.

Parineeti and Raghav Marriage: Pari and Raghav are about to tie the knot, wedding date revealed

Parineeti and Raghav Marriage: The relationship between Hindi cinema's cutie point Parineeti Chopra and politics' macho man Raghav ...