Rohan Sippy: Akshay has brought his genius to CC2C

While RAB NE BANA DI JODI is already a Superhit and GHAJINI is on the way to become one, Bollywood is looking at a hat trick of big money spinners with Akshay Kumar bringing his CHANDNI CHOWK TO CHINA in three weeks from now. In a way it is quite deserving for Top–3 stars of the country to be giving back to back big hits, especially in the time when recession has impacted Bollywood too in a big way. No wonder, Rohan Sippy, producer of CHANDNI CHOWK TO CHINA, is mighty excited about the prospects of his film and credits Akshay Kumar for the way it has eventually turned out to be.

"Akshay has brought in his own energy, his genius to the film", says Rohan Sippy when quizzed about Akshay's contribution to the making of the film, not just as an actor but also as someone who actively gets himself involved into the creative aspect of making the film.

"To begin with, there were no restrictions of any kind when CC2C was being made", reveals Rohan, "At every stage of the film, we were open to any ideas that could help it grow further. Akshay would in fact come up with suggestions during the shots and also improvise a lot. Some of the ideas were the kind that were not on paper or anyone's mind but when Akshay incorporated them, they took the film to a different high."

How did Nikhil Advani, the film's director, respond to such 'involvement'? Didn't he resent it?

"Akshay would always bounce off ideas and most of the time Nikhil enjoyed them. When he didn't, he shared his apprehensions. In any case, Akshay wasn't forcing anyone to accept his ideas", says Rohan while putting a full stop to all controversies.For Gossips And Mirch Masala Log On To Bollywood Paradize

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There’s no bad blood between me and Asin

So far Jiah Khan who plays the other leading lady in Ghajini is almost completely missing from the film's promotion and publicity. Sighs Jiah, "Ghajini is a big film for me. And I'm very happy with my role. As for why I'm not in the promos, what do I say? Wait and watch. The truth will be out when my song Lattoo starts.It's my first big Bollywood item song. And I've been performing to Bollywood songs from the age of 6 in front of the mirror. I've had years of practice. " Jiah's last (and so far only) film came two years ago. "Nishabd and Ghajini are so different. I needed this kind of a challenge. I'm dressed from head to toe—except for that one song where I transform from a Plain Jane to a femme fatale. I hope they accept me in this role." No regrets about doing an unconventional film like Nishabd so early in her career? "None at all. I agree our audiences are still very conservative and Nishabd was a very bold subject. Even in the West Lolita created a huge controversy although they out there are no strangers to sex and nudity. For me Nishabd was a challenge because I got to work with Mr Bachchan and Mr Varma so early in my career. And to be doing a central role in a film featuring Mr Bachchan. It made me what I am. So I am grateful." However the challenge for Jiah in Ghajini is to be accepted in a more conventional role. "If I had Mr B as my co-star in the first film, here it's Aamir. Can't get any bigger." Asin and the rest of Southern crew never made Jiah feel like an outsider. "I love working with the South Indian cast and crew made me feel completely at home." Reports say she was at loggerheads with the film's other leading lady Asin. Jiah protests. "I don't have any scenes with Asin. But recently we were in Panchgani together. And we spoke for the first time then. Without a doubt she was amazing in the original Tamil in Ghajini. This is her first Bollywood film and therefore a big thing. From my side there's no bad blood at all. I think Asin is beautiful. She has been working a long time. This is just my second film. I had a lot to learn from both Asin and Aamir." Jiah admits she was intimidated by Aamir. "To match up with was quite a tough task. I've grown up by ten years in the last two years." As For Kangana Ranaut the problems, if any, are over. Says Jiah, "I saw Fashion and met her and told her she was fabulous. She's a lovely girl. Why would anyone give me trouble? I don't trouble anybody."

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Why would I feel threatened by Jiah: Asin

If all had gone well Asin would have moved into her own home in Mumbai by now. "But I've been traveling non-stop. I had no time time to look around and find a place. But now we're finalizing a place in Bandra. Hopefully by new year I'll lock in to the place.And we'll move in. Right now we feel a little unsettled. In Mumbai you desperately need your own home." Asin's parents have moved from Chennai to Mumbai with her. "Both of them gave up their jobs to be with me. Mom is a doctor. She has taken voluntary retirement. She manages my home now. And Dad had seven business enterprises. He gave them up to look after my career. Right now I'm quite a handful and worth more than all his business ventures." And she bursts into peals of laughter. Asin is a fun-loving extremely atypical South Indian who chatters non-stop, if allowed. She admits she was asked to keep quiet. "The marketing team felt better that I keep my distance from the press until the film's release. However that didn't stop wildly-speculative writeups about me. I read things about myself that I didn't know." Like feeling insecure about her co-star Jiah Khan? "Is that really me? I've worked in South Indian films with female co-stars and never felt insecure. I worked with Nayantara in the Tamil Ghajini without my conflict. Why would I feel threatened by Jiah? Was this a publicity strategy? It was being implied that I was somehow responsible for keeping Jiah out of the publicity. I don't know how one heroine can influence a huge marketing strategy." Jiah and Asin have no scenes together. "But we have of course met and we're very cordial with one another. We got along fine. I've had no fights with any one in Tamil or Hindi cinema so far. All these stories of friction make me feel strange. I wonder who these people who spread such rumours are." And no, Asin was under no contract with the Ghajini makers. "I'm under no contract. Didn't I sign London Dreams while Ghajini was being shot? If I haven't signed another film, it's because I haven't come across anything exciting. I was supposed to do Priyadarshan's film with Akshay Kumar. But that clashed with the Ghajini 's promotional dates." She will be moving into her new home in Bandra in January after the release of her first Hindi film Ghajini. "But even without my own home I feel at home in Mumbai. For one almost the entire unit of Ghajini was South Indian. Most of them were people I had worked with. So we were constantly chattering on the sets in Tamil or Telugu. Except of course Aamir Khan who was new to all of us." London Dreams was much tougher. "The total crew was totally Bollywood. So practically speaking London Dreams is my first Bollywood experience. Ghajini was easier than my second Hindi film London Dreams where I had to start from scratch with the character. In Ghajini my character remained untampered except the language. Here I was speaking Hindi instead of Tamil. Otherwise no changes." Her character is not the archetypal glamorous decorative doll. "I play a struggler in the ad world one of the many eager faces you see hanging out at ads shoots." Asin's Hindi has always been good and she won't require any dubbing from outsiders, thank you. How different is Aamir from Salman Khan? "While Aamir mulls overs scenes Salman must be prepared from beforehand. Because you don't seem him rehearse on the sets. But everyone in Mumbai is thoroughly professional" As for Mumbai being wary of stepping into theaters right now Asin exudes confidence. "I'm hoping by Christmas time they'd be enthused into watching an Aamir Khan film. I'm put in my best efforts in Ghajini."

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I was really trapped by dirty people: Kangana

All of 21, Kangna Ranaut has seen and suffered a lot (in her own words) during last few years in showbiz! In an earlier conversation, she had admitted that she was going through bad times. She had said, "I got everything very soon in my life but personally my life was going through too much of trauma. I was really trapped by dirty people and they wouldn't let me concentrate on my work. They tried to harm me both physically as well as mentally." However, everything seems to be passe now ever since she moved on to 'yoga'. The biggest gift she's received from this, she says, is the practice of Silence or "Maun". The practice of staying silent physically brings to the fore the tremendous busy-ness of the mind and help to bring some quiet there as well. Effervescent and vivacious by nature, Kangna has found a 'thehrav' in her life ever since she adopted 'maun'. "Initially I found it very difficult to stay silent; however through perseverance I did manage to develop this as a regular part of my yoga practice and have benefited ever since." "When I am working, I have to give it 100%. So that's why I took a break for my personal work to sort out all my issues and only then got back to work. I did not want to struggle between work and personal issues. I am not that kind of a person. I can do only one thing at a time", she had stated earlier. "Now, through Silence, I feel I've discovered my Soul, the very centre of my being, which is the source of all my energy - creative, spiritual, emotional and mental. I've always been a very focused person, and I've chosen to portray characters in my film that are challenging and strong. This awareness and practice has given me greater ability to channel my energy effectively to deliver even better on these performances", she says in an obvious relaxed tone. Through shooting Raaz-The Mystery Continues, Kangna has been even more diligent about this practice. That's because the character is one who gets possessed and has to deal with the horrific consequences. "The role required a lot from me. It's a very intense role. So it was imperative to keep my practice alive during the outdoor schedules to be able to maintain the focus and equanimity needed to deliver the required performance." "I know where I want to go. That inner destination's where my eventual goal is", concludes Kangna

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I'm fine and going on holiday with Kareena

Saif Ali Khan gave all his family and friends a scare when he was hospitalized on New Years' eve. But on 26 December he was well on the way to recovery. Speaking from his hospital bed at Leelavati hospital Saif said, "I'm almost recovered now. I'm going home today (27 Jan). It was nothing, really. I returned from Philadelphia from the shooting of Rensil d'Silva's film on 23rd night. And since I was missing all the Mumbai ka khana, I gorged indiscriminately on local junk food, sev puri bhelpuri, paani puri….puri ki puri fauj went into my stomach." The Chote Nawab jokes from his hospital bed. So wasn't he frightened when his stomach started acting up on him? "Not at all. It was gastroenteritis. Yes, I've been in hospital twice in the recent past. Once it was just an appendicitis. And the other time it was far more serious. After going through what I did the last time I'm hardly going to get scared by a little stomach infection." Chuckles Saif, "Actually it's much less scary than it looks. I've got a drip coming out of my hand, so that makes it look kind of serious. But it's nothing. I'm fine. Just a little sleepy. In fact Kareena and I are going on our holiday to the mountains as planned."

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"Let's not trivialize serious issues for commercial gains" - Akshay Kumar

Jumbo

While Akshay Kumar gets ready for an exciting four weeks ahead with the release of two of his films - Jumbo and Chandni Chowk To China - round the corner, he is keeping his promises intact when it comes to being associated with a cause. One such cause is the Special Olympics that offer children and adults with intellectual disabilities in a year-round training. This is then followed by competitions in 30 Olympic-type summer and winter sports.

Prior to the World Winter Games, a Global Law Enforcement Torch Run is organized and Delhi will be one of the host cities for the Torch Run. Incidentally, this time around, the run would begin from Chandni Chowk, Delhi.

"It's a pleasant coincidence to begin this drive from 'Chandni Chowk', the place which is closest to my heart. I have been associated with Special Olympics as their brand ambassador for quite some time now and am looking forward to the torch traveling across the globe", says Akshay while making plans for his visit to Delhi on 21st December when the torch would arrive in the city.

Tell him that the torch would travel from Delhi to even Shanghai, China, hence bringing real life close to reel life of Chandni Chowk To China and he protests, "Let's not mix up pleasure with a cause here. I will talk about the film when a platform is suited for its promotion. Here we are talking about people with intellectual disabilities so let's not trivialize it for commercial gains. We are dealing with sensitive issues here." While Akshay Kumar will be running along with the Torch, Chief Minister of Delhi Mrs. Shiela Dixit will be present at the ceremony to flag off the Torch Run. Akshay Kumar has been attached to this worldwide initiative that is considered to be quite prestigious across 180 odd countries where it has its presence. The Special Olympics currently serve 2.5 million people (with 500,000 people just in India) with intellectual disabilities in more than 200 Programs which are carried out across these 180 odd countries around the world.

Chosen as a brand ambassador in 2005, Akshay Kumar hopes to spread awareness about the cause by being associated with it. He concludes by stating, "I believe all these individuals with special needs certainly deserve the same respect that other athletes get. It is a matter of pride to see them participating with great vigor and unparalleled confidence at such a global platform."

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'Big B is unbelievably athletic'' - Madhavan

In Pune, Madhavan who's shooting for Leena Yadav's Teen Patti was in for a huge shock when his co-star Amitabh Bachchan expressed a desire to join him at the golf course.

Maddy, it must be mentioned, is a national-level golf champ and winner of several national and international prizes for the sport. Mr Bachchan had never played golf before.

"Or so he said," says the still-dazed-and-dazzled Maddy from Pune. "But seeing how he played I was shocked. No one except Mr Bachchan can be so good at a game he has never played before."

It happened suddenly when one day Mr Bachchan decided to join Maddy at the golf course. "I thought I'd be privileged enough to teach him a few moves. But I was stunned at the way he played. He was spectacular. And if this was his first time ever at golf then I've just become an even bigger of his," says Maddy who played an Amitabh Bachchan fan in Ramji Londonwale and even got the mega-star to make an appearance at the end of the film.

Now Maddy is toying with the idea of a film based on the game of golf featuring Mr Bachchan and Maddy. "I don't know how he did it! He's unbelievably athletic. His hand co-ordination is extraordinary. Other people generally take four years for what he did on the golf course on his first day…and so easily. He has phenomenal pick-up powers whether it's on the golf course or on the sets."

Not much of a card-player either the Big B picked up the cards game so fast for Teen Patti that he left Maddy and other team members gasping. "He's extraordinary in whatever he does. I feel like his pupil," says Maddy who plays a professor in Teen Patti.

"And then I go right back to playing the student in Raj Kumar Hirani's 3 Idiots. But being around the Big B I always feel like a student," states Maddy

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I can't be compared with Aishwarya: Katrina Kaif

Katrina Kaif has just been voted the most googled girl from Bollywood. Down with a bad flu attack Katrina says, "I'm very surprised. I really didn't expect this. Google is the only thing I know on the internet. I'm not too internet savvy. Who doesn't want to be recognized and loved? I think it's really sweet because it means I'm a little more popular with the younger generation. People between 19 and 30 go to the internet more, I think. And that's the audience I want to connect with." This in spite of the fact that Katrina doesn't think she's sexy. "Maybe the way I define sexy is different from the general definitions. Maybe the people who have voted for me think differently from me..thank God for that! The beautiful thing about this world is that there're so many different opinions." The names of the other ladies in the Top 10 google searched candidates surprised Katrina. "The important thing is to enjoy this moment. I smile about these things. Such momentary honour makes me want achieve a lot better. They help me take the next step." Katrina has taken over from Aishwarya Rai as the most googled Bollywood girl. Both actresses have a more wholesome image than the term 'sexy' generally suggests. Katrina smiles. "I can't be compared with her…She's iconic. I like that word…wholesome. I like being wholesome. Maybe today being attractive has more to do with the relatability factor." Deepika Padukone and Genelia d'Souza are also in the list. "So maybe too much in-you-face appeal is no longer that much in favour. Maybe finding the balance is important. Otherwise one appeals to only a section of people. Me? I didn't project myself in any one way. I've projected myself the way my projects have allowed me to. I've been fortunate to be accepted in spite of not being conventionally sexy." Katrina says she's ready to play characters that are not straightforward. "I play more intricate characters in Yashraj Films's New York directed by Kabir Khan, Raj Kumar Santoshi's Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani and Prakash Jha's Rajneeti. They are nerve-wrackingly challenging. But I need to go to another level. After watching me in these films no one, not even me, will say I'm just being glamorous."

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I'm not comfortable dancing at New Year's events

Will I dance this New Year's eve? Bollywood actresses answer... Priyanka Chopra: "It's a matter of personal choice. I'm not comfortable dancing at the New Year's event. But then I don't want to be judgmental about those who do. I've always tried to be different in my choices. This year I've said no. But if some other year I'm presented with an interesting option and a concept then why not? I did perform at the Nelly Furtado New Year's even concert two years ago. Celina Jaitley: "Yes I'll go on stage on New Year's Eve in London at the City Pavilion. The tickets, apparently are priced at a whopping 125 pounds per head. Is it proper to head to London for New Year's eve revelry when Mumbai is morning and most actresses have canceled their stage gig? It's not the actresses who have canceled their performances. It's the luxury hotels in Mumbai which have done away with New Years eve shows. As for me I won't be performing in London. I'll just be making an appearance. Although it'll be known as the Celina Jaitly night where Javed Ali (who has sung for A R Rahman in Jodha-Akbar and Yuvraaj) and Rishi Rich will perform. I'll just just go on stage." "I wouldn't perform at the New Year's eve bash unless I'm sure about the hotel and the security. Having taken care of that, as long as it's a respectable event properly publicized and with a fat paycheck, I'd be tempted. Malaika Arora: "I'll be performing for New Years eve in Singapore. Performing at a tacky event is a definite no-no. I can tell tacky from classy. The show organizers who look after their artistes well are Cineyug, Wizcraft, G.S. Entertainment (Bunty Walia) and Sohail Khan. I know for a fact that these guys would never be involved with anything tacky. This year I'm performing for Wizcraft. I know they'll look after every detail including the artiste's security. If I'm uncomfortable with the milieu then the answer is no. I've performed at the Marriott and it was a wonderful experience and a lucrative deal. Koena Mitra: "I'd be lying if I said that security at a New Year's eve performance is not a concern for me, after what happened to me last year (Koena was stalked and manhandled). Now as a rule I double check the security. Having said that, like any artiste I love performing in front of a live audience. What better way to bring in the New Year? Dia Mirza: "I've been getting offers to perform on New Years eve for years. But I've never been tempted. Honestly the remuneration offered for such performances can weaken your resolve. But I've stuck to my ground. So the answer to the offer of dancing at these year-end affairs remains a firm no. Performing on the 31st of December is a personal choice. I'd prefer to bring in the new year with family and friends. Sophie Chowdhary: "I hope to perform in Delhi this New Years eve. Although the general mood is gloomy I truly feel that we should not allow fear to overpower us. Recession and then 26/11...we need to regain our strength and power. Of course we must not forget the lessons of 26/11. At the same time we mustn't be afraid to live our normal lives. We need to begin 2009 on a happy and positive note." Shilpa Shetty: "I'm not against dancing in a hotel for New Years. After all, what's the difference between dancing in an awards night or at a New Years' event? Please! I've danced on 31 December in the past. But this time, no thank you. I've got five different offers to dance this New Years. And at unheard-of prices. The fee was tempting. But sorry I wasn't tempted. This year I'm going on a family holiday to Spain for the New Year. I'd any day sacrifice any kind of money for the family. … Today being in a serious relationship and contemplating marriage I'm in a different mind space. I'd perhaps not be that enthusiastic about dancing at dos. But again, this is not a moral issue. Please! I repeat, there's no difference between dancing at a mundan or a new year's eve function.

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Aamir is Aamir, SRK is SRK: Aamir Khan

Ghajini is the most anticipated release of the year. And like everyone else, Aamir Khan is super-excited about it. He talks about the hairstyle he made famous, clears a few controversies and hopes Ghajini will be his Christmas present to movie buffs.

Are you counting the days to the release of Ghajini?
Yeah. Now that it has been completed I’m just waiting for its release. I’m thrilled that people all over India are excited about the film. It has a Tamil version too and all over audiences are eagerly awaiting its release. The cast and crew have worked very hard for this movie. My director Ossim, without knowing Hindi, had to adjust.

Your film got U/A rating. How do you feel about it?
It’s great that the censor board, having seen it, has given it this rating. Now I’m keeping my fingers crossed. The censor board has liked it, we now have to wait for the audiences’ reaction.

Tell us about the scenes that have been deleted because of the censor board.
There were only about two to three shots that were deleted. Unless you watch the movie it is worthless to say which scenes these were. Also, I really can’t disclose this type of information.

Do you really think that you can promote Ghajini through a hairstyle?
See, the idea was from the film’s publicity department. They thought it was good and it is the first time a film has been promoted this way so I am happy with the concept. The film has a lot of offer. I assure you that everyone who watches it will get something out of the experience. So I can’t say that it will become a hit or not only through the way it is being promoted.

Issues about the phone number tattooed on you in the film’s poster were in the news. It all came back to you. Tell us about it.
It was our mistake and I am sorry for what happened. I was upset about it but we did not do it intentionally.

Have you watched Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi?
No, but if I get time I will definitely watch the film.

You are apparently promoting your film in theatres that are showing Shahrukh Khan’s movie. Is it tough always competing with Khan?
My film has only two weeks to it’s release. Shahrukh is Shahrukh and Aamir is Aamir. No one should compare us to each other. We both have different styles when it comes to our work and we are both well settled in our careers. So I don’t know why the media is constantly comparing us. The promotion of my film has nothing to do with this so called Khan war.

Do you think you have worked harder than Surya (who starred in the original Ghajini) for this film?
I saw the film in its Tamil version and I liked Surya’s character. That’s why I asked Murgadoss to make a Hindi version. I was inspired by him. So I can’t say that I have worked harder than him.

This film is quite different from your recent movies. The storyline is not situational or message based.
Ya, but the film is good! When I saw the Tamil version I liked the movie so much that I called the director. It’s true, it isn’t situational or message based but again it’s a different kind of role- something I have never done before. You get to see the action hero in me this time; the one who fights gundas and all! And also, a lover boy! That’s a role I’m playing after a while. I need variation in my characters and want to do different roles with each film.

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John Abraham is sexiest Asian in the world

John Abraham has been adjudged the sexiest Asian man in the world in 2008. In the annual round conducted by Eastern Eye, a leading British Asian weekly, Abraham emerged the top in a shortlist of 10. The weekly sent judges a shortlist of 10 names. The judges then ranked the names according to their individual preferences and the newspaper then compiled the results to produce a final list. "John Abraham made up for a quiet year with a sensational look in Dostana, with one of the greatest physiques ever seen on the big screen. His body helped to make the film a hit with Asian women," Hamant Verma, editor of Eastern Eye, said. The judges included Brianna Ragel, editor of Asian Woman Magazine, Che Kurrien, editor of GQ India and the former editor of FHM India, Farhad Dadyburjor. 2007's top guy actor Shah Rukh Khan stood at third place after Hrithik Roshan in second place. Abraham was at third place last year. Newcomers to the 2008 list include TV presenter Rav Wilding (20) and actors Harman Baweja (22) and Stephen Uppal (21). Britons on this year's list include Upen Patel (five), Jay Sean (nine) and boxer Amir Khan (ten). The top ten sexiest male includes, John Abraham, Hrithik Roshan, Shah Rukh Khan, Ali Zafar, Upen Patel, Ranbir Kapoor, Saif Ali Khan, Imran Khan (actor), Jay Sean and boxer Amir Khan.

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I am an employee of the myth of SRK: Shah Rukh Khan

We don't start with ABC here but with SRK. So tell me what makes an extraordinary SRK ordinary? I think the reason people become extraordinary is because their roots are ordinary. I don't think it works the other way round that you happen to be an extraordinary, and then, with humility and modesty talk about your ordinariness. First of all, I don't believe I'm extraordinary. My very good friend and writer of Chak De India, Jaideep Sahni told me yesterday that the irony of your life is that when you tell people the truth, they believe either you're being too humble or honest, which is true. I don't find anything extraordinary in what I do. It's a job like everyone else does. I wake up every morning, apply my make up and try and get my best shot possible. You are here to interview me and you'll hope that this one is better than the last one. That's what I'm doing since last 20 years and our film Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi is akin to that. Is that being diplomatic or simplistic? I always say this; I am an employee of the myth of SRK. For the first time you will see the worker behind this myth and Rab Ne's Surinder Sahni, the character, is that worker who is a little boring, hard worker, may be not good looking but he is actually the engine what drives the myth. It's being simplistic. What ideas, values or experiences did you and Aditya Chopra bring along with you from 2000 to 2008, from Mohabbatein to Rab Ne...? What we've realised from DDLJ days is that a lot of faith has been put in our creative ability to entertain. For years, what we've tried to do is cater to what we think people want to see. They've always said that we'd like to see a cool guy singing 'Tujhe Dekha Toh Yeh Jaana Sanam' in Switzerland and we gave that to them. It's not important that we keep giving them what they want to see, but the question is, can we give them what we want to show them and ask them whether they liked what they saw. That is the difference from Rab Ne... to DDLJ. When we made DDLJ we were very anxious. We tried to show the Lamborghini or the Harley Davidson, but now we want to show them the engine that drives these things. We are now challenging the status of faith given to us by the audiences saying, 'You guys told us that you like us, now we will show you what we like and not what you like to see'. And what is Adi going to show them this time around? Rab Ne is a big entertaining film and the funniest film Aditya Chopra can make for the simple reason that he is not a funny guy. Even during DDLJ, I had to bring in a lot of humor. We've tried this time to bring this same humor in an ordinary way. People, when they travel abroad eat chicken in KFC or a burger in McDonalds or some grilled food in some restaurant. But when they come home after a month or two and sit down and are being served hot paratha and curd, you feel it's the best you've ever had. Rab Ne... is the best you've ever had. What about today's kids, let's say...Aryan, will he identify with his extraordinary status? When I am trying to show my son Aryan heroes of today's day and age and even heroes of our mythological era, he is not interested. For kids, a hero is a guy who is normal and ordinarily extraordinary.. They don't need their hero to be in flashy clothes. But as long as he performs he is a hero for them. Like the footballer Ronaldo is a hero for kids because his actions are performance based.. 'Hero toh woh hota hai jo Shah Rukh Khan hota hai', that's not true. Hero is one who does his job well. For Aryan, I might be his hero too because he knows I do my job well. I've seen that an ordinary man is very secured about his status. . The purpose of life and your existence is becoming more important. I tell my kids that I did Om Shanti Om because I believe that if it's not happy, it's not the end. . What's your status then? It's strange but the people of Malaysia knew what my status was when I went there to receive my knighthood. They were holding these huge banners which said, "The person who likes to see people smile - Datuk Shah Rukh". . That's what I am. It's another thing that I get paid crores for doing that now. But I got Rs. 5, 000 for my first film to do the same thing and will continue doing that in Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi.. It's strange to be working with a stranger. You expect the unexpected from them. How did the debutante Anushka Sharma come across? All these girls are really wonderful. They are in a world which is very well informed, more informed than my world when I was 20. They have access to information and because they have access to information, I believe that they have access to expressions that I didn't have at that age.. I've grown up with some expressions of life. I didn't know what a terrorist was; I didn't know what an internet was. I had to first access it and then learn it. So when you're working with new comers as talented as Anushka what happens is they express themselves in a language that I'm just getting to know.. Over the last couple of years, I've learnt not to correct them (new comers) because I need to correct myself. When I said a line in DDLJ which went - 'Zindagi mein do raaste milte hai, ek sahi, ek galat'. . Everybody told me how beautifully I had said those lines. I don't think Anushka will say the same lines like I did. But when she says it the way she says it now, it'll be as beautiful.. I truly believe that new comers are great actors because they do things completely out of the box. I just thanked Anushka and her parents last night by saying, "Thank you for allowing me to do something different.. Luck plays a significant part in everyone's life. It has played in your life and mine too. I want to know how luck has affected Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi? Adi says that this film is made by 'Rab' and not luck. I just called him and told him that should we just postpone the release of our film keeping in mind the situation in Mumbai right now and he said, "This film is made by 'Rab' and we will let it release on time as planned. All what is happening was made to happen. Rab knows what He is doing". I never planned to work with Aditya Chopra and he never planned to make a film. It all just happened. The reason I did Rab Ne... is because Raju Hirani's film got cancelled. So Adi came to me and said that he had written a film in 12 days and wanted me to be a part of it. I agreed and we finished the film in 47 days. Rab Ne is 20% better than what we planned to make. It's all in Rab's hands!

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I was betrayed: Eesha Koppikhar

Eesha Koppikhar is a firm believer in destiny and can be found muttering "Karmanyeva adhikarasya Ma faleshu Kadaachana" when questioned about the lack of successful films in the recent past. "I love working in front of the camera and am passionate about the art. I don't think too much about what would happen next; least of all box office collections. Recently when 'Hello' became a success and people started rattling down it's collections, I excused myself. I don't understand the business aspect of thinks and have no inclination to do so in future too. I want my films to do well but can't have my life being dominated by them", says Eesha Koppikhar who just saw the release of 'Ek Vivaah Aisa Bhi'. Such statements coming from her are surprising though, especially when she showed a lot of promise in last couple of years when she was seen in biggies like 'Don - The Chase Begins Again', 'Salaam E Ishq' and '36 China Town'. "Honestly, there is nothing that I can rave about in the films you mention", Eesha says in a matter of fact tone, "Quite frankly they didn't help me much. I guess things seemed to be finally picking up for better after 'Kya Kool Hai Hum', which was a mega success and brought me some good reviews as well. However, the person looking after my work wasn't aggressive enough to help me capitalize on the film's success. But as I said, it's destiny." Solo lead in 'Ek Vivaah Aisa Bhi', a change in image and some good reviews coming her way would have come as an icing on the cake, isn't it? "Of course yes", says Eesha without blinking an eyelid, "To be honest I was expecting good reviews from 'Ek Vivaah Aisa Bhi' since Barjatyas have their own loyal set of audience. This is the set of audience which always have a certain expectation from a Rajshri heroine and I had to be conscious about the fact that I do not disappoint them as well as the makers of the film. Now with good reviews coming the film's way, I am relieved. I am sure the film, though released at a select number of prints, would continue to find an audience over a period of time."

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Back with Kat, Sallu tells how SRK stabbed him in back

Rumour has it that director Subhash Ghai is planning to remake his 80s big hit 'Hero' and he wants none other than Salman Khan for the lead role.

A close source has said, "Yes, Subhash ji is planning to remake 'Hero' and has already thought about the actors. Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif are his first choice of lead role. 

Salman will play Jackie Shroff and Katrina the role of Meenakshi Sheshadri.The new 'Hero' will be different from the original and will be made for the audience now and will be an up-to-date version. 

Subhash ji is planning to shoot the film after 'Yuvvraaj' releases at an overseas location and hopes to complete it within 90 days, so that he can release it for end of 2009."

Salman Khan himself has also reportedly talked about it, "I had heard two three scripts before 'Yuvvraaj'. The scripts were good but I couldn't play those characters. I wanted him to make 'Hero' with me but Subhash ji said we would make it later. Then he came up with 'Yuvvraaj'."

On a similar note, Sallu displayed a different kind of heroism when he talked about his hurt over SRK's behaviour. 

He' said in a tell-all interview, "As soon as Shah Rukh left the party, he started calling up the media!

I didn't speak till one week after the fight because he was trying to put me in the middle of something which is not cool from any angle! That is the time I stood up and started speaking. There is no reason for disrespect.

Everybody messes up. I have messed up also not once but so many times, without any malice, any manipulation or agenda. If things go wrong between two buddies we say 'okay buddy let's hang out together and sort it out' but if you are going to mess up and disrespect me then forget it, " 

He's added, "The right side of my head is my heart. I will always do what is right. I am human man! I am trying to be human. 

I have lots of flaws but I am taking care of that. But there are some things I don't have jealousy, incompetence, insecurity and maliciousness. I don't have a temper either, though I may get angry. And if I am wrong, I have the courage to call up and apologise.

Say sorry and I am fine. What I say is what I do. I don't say something and do something else and think of something totally different."

Now after hearing his side of the story straight from the heart, one would in need have to say that this one's a real here, one of a kind in B-Town! -For Gossips And Mirch Masala Log On To Bollywood Paradize

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I wasn't competing with Shilpa: Priyanka

Shilpa Shetty is enjoying all the 'oohs' and 'aahs' from the audience with her sexy act in 'Shut Up and Bounce' number from Dostana. However, Priyanka Chopra is not loosing any sleep with the popularity of the song and the item girl in it, especially since she has her own 'Desi Girl' to cheer about.

"In any case, I wasn't competing with Shilpa Shetty in Dostana. Of course 'Desi Girl' is fantastic but so is 'Shut Up and Bounce'. I knew about the song placement from the very beginning", says Priyanka Chopra who is getting quite some accolades coming her way after Fashion and now Dostana.

But didn't she ever wish that she could have bagged 'Shut Up and Bounce' as well? 

"Well, I have the remaining five songs in the film to my name so no regrets with one song featuring someone else", smiles Priyanka, "Also, the song's placement was such that it required introducing the beach life of Miami to the audience at the very beginning of the film. Now since I make an appearance a little later, it wouldn't have made sense for the song to be picturised on me."

What does she feel about Shilpa Shetty fitting the bill eventually?

"Absolutely the right choice", Priyanka doesn't blink an eyelid here, "For a vibrant city like Miami, it was absolutely essential to have a female with a great body and who better than Shilpa to do the honors. 

This composition by Vishal and Shekhar absolutely rocks and the way Tarun Mansukhani, the film's director, has got it on screen is just perfect. I am very happy with the final result and glad that it is being noticed and becoming so popular with the audience. It only helps the film."For Gossips And Mirch Masala Log On To Bollywood Paradize

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Vivek is an idiot but who is SRK: Salman Khan

Salman Khan is in no mood to make peace with his enemies. 

Of late he's been giving a lot of honest answers. So honest, that it can very well become very hard for the rest to handle! 

A couple of years back when he was angry with John Abraham, he'd shockingly said, "Who's John Abraham?" 

Now he's busy making his displeasure evident about SRK. 

In a recent interview with a foreign magazine he's asked, "Who's SRK? I have never heard about him before." 

Well, his remarks on actor Vivek Oberoi were even harsher. 

He's said, "Vivek Oberoi is merely a guy who likes to stand next to celebrities for photographers to click at him. I would just call him an idiot"

Sallu is in no mood to forgive and forget. After all VO did offend him big time some five years ago because of a certain Miss Ash.

But then the guy still has nothing to say against ex love Ash or her family. 

He's said, "I am friendlier with the Bachchan family. I have paired up with Amitabh Bachchan for a couple of films and a flick with Abhishek Bachchan. They are good performers on the screen and it was nice working with them". 

This one sure seems to be a brutally honest guy!For Gossips And Mirch Masala Log On To Bollywood Paradize

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My husband is with me. What else I could have asked for: Aishwarya Rai

One of the world's most beautiful ladies has had all kinds of birthdays over the years. All good ones, some exceptionally memorable. But the one tomorrow as she brings in her birthday, takes the birthday cake. Aishwarya is lost somewhere in the thick jungles on the outskirts of Kochi shooting for Mani Ratnam's new film. So no parents and no adopted parents (the Bachchans) this birthday. But wait. She is with her husband Abhishek Bachchan. "And so here I am on my birthday with the love of her life, " Aishwarya laughed with girlish pleasure hours before her birthday. "In a way I couldn't have asked for more. It's a beautiful green paradise here. We started shooting just a day ago. And we already feel those vibes of an extraordinary happening. And my husband is with me. So is my most favourite who directed us in in one of our best films together (Guru) and who incidentally also happens to be my first director. And we're working on the most beautiful film that we could ever hope for. What better birthday could I as for?" Any regrets about not being with the family for her special day? "It was just not possible. Mani Sir has been absolutely patient, waiting for me and Abhishek while we attended to Pa (Amitabh Bachchan). We started shooting yesterday only. Any further delay would be totally unacceptable to both me and Abhishek. Both of us have been brought up to believe that work is worship….but when it comes to a family crisis, nothing else matters." Falling silent for a few seconds as Abhishek walks in toask his wife if she's doing an interview before moving out, the epitome of gentle grace, Aishwarya suddenly giggles pleasurably. "But you know what? I've heard some whispers around here that we're getting Sunday off…a day after my birthday. But not a problem. We'll all celebrate properly a day later. No issues." The past few months have been exctremely trying for Aishwarya. First her father's illness then her father-in-law's sudden hospitalization. But she continued to fulfil all her professional obligations. She sighs, "You know the best thing is, through all these trying times all my professional associates and colleagues have been a source of strength and courage. There was never this feeling of, 'You better do it'. It was always a sense of, 'Are you sure you can do it?'. I've derived great strength and sustenance from family friends and colleagues. And I want to take this opportunity to thank them from the bottom of my heart. Their love and prayers have kept me going through the last few months" So what's the one gift that she wants this birthday? "Ha, " laughs lovely diva, "You know me. I don't ask for anything. I already have everything that I could possibly want without asking for. And like I said I'm with the love of my life in the wilderness. Sadly no one will be able to get through to me where I'm shooting. But all the sms, prayers and love will be with me when I return to civilization in the evening tomorrow. Yeah I miss my family on my birthday. But then I can't have it all, can I?"

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I will do TV serials after retiring from movies: Rambha

South Indian actress Rambha rubbishes reports that she is doing television soaps and says she will move to the small screen only after taking retirement from big screen. "People are making up stories on the basis of my judging a reality show on a TV channel. I may think of a television career if roles offered excite me. But that will happen only after I retire from the big screen. I am choosy about my roles, " Rambha told. She accepted the offer to judge a reality show because she liked the concept, she said. "I am still a sought after heroine. The forthcoming Tamil movie 'Vidiyum Varai Kaathiru' features me as the female lead opposite Prakash Raj, " said Rambha, who has done more than 100 films, including some in Hindi. In a career spanning 16 years, Rambha has played lead roles opposite top Bollywood heroes like Salman Khan, Ajay Devgan, Suniel Shetty, Govinda and Mithun Chakraborthy. Born Vijaya Lakshmi to Telugu parents, the squint-eyed actress adopted screen name Amritha and later changed it to Rambha. Her uncanny resemblance to late Hindi actress Divya Bharti was one of her claims to all-India stardom.

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I strongly feel that Singh Is Kinng really helped me: Sonu Sood

Recently, Sonu Sood got a first hand taste of the celebrity status he has gained post the super success of Jodhaa Akbar and Singh Is Kinng. He visited his home town in Punjab and was shocked to find that throughout his short stay there, there were 150-200 people thronging at his residence to meet him or at least have a glimpse of him. On being queried, Sonu at first makes light of the happenings in his life. "It's ok, let's not make a big deal about it. It happens. I should consider myself as a real star once I start delivering hits all by myself. I am hoping Ek Vivaah Aisa Bhi' proves to be a major happening in my career as a solo lead." Sonu Sood acknowledges though that it has been the Singh Is Kinng effect due to which his presence in the home town was celebrated to such an extent. "I strongly feel that Singh Is Kinng really helped me. After all, it was a huge commercial success, though it was only after visiting Punjab that I realized the impact the film has made. It is amusing to see people running behind you and absolute strangers visiting you at home. That's the magic of Singh Is Kinng ", says Sonu who had a good kick start to the year with Jodhaa Akbar. "I guess I have been successful in getting the right balance of films on my plate. There is a large commercial audience which wants to see you in a Singh Is Kinng kind of a setup while there are others who appreciate you more if you get to do an intense role in Jodhaa Akbar. It's ok, as an actor you have to cater to both the segments of society", he reasons. What made him refuse Mukesh Bhatt's Jashn in that case? Wasn't this film (which is being directed by Raksha Mistry and Hasnain Hyderabadwala) allowing him to cater to any particular segment of society? "Somehow I was not convinced about the script", admits Sonu, "I am sure Vishesh Films make great movies with great music. But I have to decide my own course too. I have some good movies of mine lined up and now for me to sign a film, it has to be something really exciting; something really better. In any case, why such a hue and cry about me choosing 'not' to do a film. In democracy, you are allowed to choose, right?"

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Abhishek and I are a couple: John Abraham

It's customary for two stars to be pitched against one another in real life whenever they are paired on screen.The last time we heard murmurs of discontent was when Bipasha and Deepika apparently couldn't stand one another while shooting Bachna Ae Haseenon. But John and Abhishek get along like a house on fire. To their regret they had to shoot a music video for Dostana separately. Producer Karan Johar who just landed in Mumbai after two weeks of location hunting in Los Angeles says the song Maa da ladla was shot during his absence. "I left it entirely to my director Tarun Mansukhani and to the choreographer Feroz (who's Farah Khan's assistant for ten years). So you'll have to ask Tarun what happened." Tarun Mansukhani has his own explanation for why Abhishek and John shot the song separately. "I deliberately didn't shoot the song with John and Abhishek together. I wanted at least this one song Maa da ladla to look different from the rest of the film where they're constantly together, fooling around, chumming it up. They shot individually, so the masti of the rest of the movie was missing on the sets." Tarun trails off sadly, and then perks up. "The last shooting before this was for Desi girl where all of us were together. It was so much fun." The Maa da ladla song was shot on 15, 16 and 17 October at Filmistan studios and onlookers watched Abhishek and John arrive on separate days. "This is a music video which we'll use for promotion and probably for the end titles, "explains Tarun. Says Abhishek, "It was wonderful to shoot with John Abraham again after Dhoom. It was fun on the sets because we were all friends." Adds John, "Abhishek is not co-star or colleague. He's a friend. I dote on him. I love him to death. We never compete. We complement each other in Dostana. We share a great chemistry. Abhishek and I are a couple in the film."

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