Bollywood rediscovered heroes in 2011

MUMBAI: Bollywood struck gold in 2011, revving up lacklustre box offices in India with help from its leading men who wooed audiences back to cinemas after a dismal 2010.

Domestic revenues hit 19.25 billion rupees ($363.2 million) this year, up from 14.5 billion rupees in 2010, and an unprecedented four films crossed the billion rupee milestone. Two of those blockbusters starred actor Salman Khan.

The solid performance contrasted sharply to the previous year when there were hardly any hits.

"Audiences and filmmakers have gone back and discovered stories that are close to our Indian roots," said Sanjeev Lamba, Chief executive of Reliance Entertainment, which produced two of the year's biggest blockbusters -- "Bodyguard" and "Singham".

"Bodyguard", in which Khan plays a personal security guard to a rich man's daughter and ends up falling in love with her, was the most successful Bollywood film, raking in more than 1.5 billion rupees ($28 million) at domestic box offices.

"Singham" told the story of a right-minded police officer who stands up to a corrupt politician and was accompanied by romance, drama and high-octane action.

Both "Bodyguard" and "Singham" were panned by critics but loved by audiences. And both featured strong central characters, harkening back to the 1980s and early '90s in Bollywood when films were centred on the hero and his defeat of a villain in a battle of good versus evil.

"Audiences have always loved the dilemmas of the hero, a little bit of action, some drama and some romance," Lamba said. "We had a lot of that this year."

Other themes were successful, too.

Offbeat films like "The Dirty Picture", based on the life of a soft-core porn star, proved to be sleeper hits and took industry analysts by surprise. Together with the likes of "Singham" and "Bodyguard", these smaller films proved audiences have an appetite for both mass market and niche-oriented work.

"It is not that more people are watching movies, but that the same audience is watching more movies," said Shailesh Kapoor of Ormax Media, a firm that specialises in film market research.

"HARRY POTTER" HOT; "RA.ONE" NOT

But widely-hyped movies like superhero film "Ra.One" were a let-down.

In spite of a publicity blitzkrieg, actor Shah Rukh Khan's film did not live up to expectations with around 1.2 billion rupees ($22 million) in net box office. That was just a bit more than its official budget of a billion rupees. Industry estimates put the film's cost at over 1.5 billion rupees.

Aside from that, for the most part, Bollywood managed to keep its purse strings in check, with production houses learning that budgeting a film right is half the battle.

"Balaji Motion Pictures made 'The Dirty Picture' at a budget of less than 300 million rupees but have chosen themes and subjects which are interesting, and (they) publicised their films so well that audiences have felt compelled to watch them," said industry analyst Vajir Singh.

Big studios like Reliance and UTV also have changed their business models, preferring to co-produce films rather than acquire them after completion. Last year, Reliance suffered losses after two big-ticket acquisitions, Mani Ratnam's "Raavan" and Hrithik Roshan-starrer "Kites" flopped at box offices.

"This year, all our films have been co-productions or our own productions and we have seen the successes," Lamba said.

"We prefer to be creatively involved from the beginning of the project rather than coming in at the end in an acquisition scenario."

Indian audiences also warmed up to Hollywood blockbusters including "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2" and "The Adventures of Tintin: The Secret of the Unicorn" -- something that wasn't seen until just a few years ago due mainly to Bollywood's dominance of the box office.

"These days, the box office collections of good Hollywood films can rival those of a Bollywood film," said Sunil Punjabi, chief executive of the Cinemax chain of multiplexes.

"The Adventures of Tintin," which was released along with Ranbir Kapoor's "Rockstar" in November, made more than 70 million rupees its opening weekend. (Reuters) 
REUTERS

Bollywood's Top 5 Controversies Of 2011 - Bollywood New

Bollywood's Top 5 Controversies Of 2011 - Bollywood News. This year Bollywood celebrities faced too many controversies, from fights to illegal activities

JO HUM CHAHEIN MOVIE REVIEW

JO HUM CHAHEIN Movie Review


Love stories are the most tried and tested genre in Bollywood. Youthful stories in particular are eagerly lapped up if the romance quotient is just right, the lead pair is charming, the songs are tuneful and easy on the lips and the sweet and tender moments stay fresh in your memory even after you’ve made an exit from the cineplex. The process of falling in love changes in film after film, but what remains intact — at least in Hindi movies — is the joy and elation when the lovers unite in the finale.

First-time director Pawan Gill attempts to tell a love story that deals with the problems and struggles of a Gen X couple. Though it’s easy to decipher what course the journey would take, you can’t help but acknowledge the fact that Pawan at least makes a sincere attempt to tell a story that’s breezy and pacy, with an interesting twist midway through the film. Well shot with several interesting moments, it’s a film that the urban youth should identify with instantly.

But there’s a flipside as well. And that pertains to its screenplay. More on that later!
JO HUM CHAHEIN is a coming of age story of Rohan [Sunny Gill] and Neha [Simran Mundi], two young, hip, effervescent individuals whose lives change forever once they meet and fall in love. Rohan is a brash, cocky, ambitious, 24-year-old MBA graduate who wants instant success and will do anything to make that come true.

Rohan moves to Mumbai to pursue a career as a stockbroker where he meets Neha, a no-nonsense, strong-headed girl, who’s come to Mumbai to follow her dreams, the dream of becoming a film actor. Neha is someone who believes in love, but hasn’t given any guy a chance because no one measures up to her standards of Mr. Right. That’s until Rohan comes along and her life changes completely.

Both of them have different wants, desires and quests, but they manage to come together and go on a journey that intertwines their personal and professional lives.

Director Pawan Gill, who has also penned its script, chooses to narrate a story that not only focuses on romance, but also on the aspirations of the youth and how far can they go to accomplish their goals. In doing so, Pawan doesn’t take the tried and tested route to narrate his tale. The love story isn’t the type that would make you exclaim, ‘Not again’. But the entire stock market perspective is what could’ve been lucidly elucidated for the average moviegoer to decipher. Sure, the character of Alyy Khan does make things clear at the outset, but during the course of the journey, there could’ve been more clarity on the issue. Case in point, what eventually goes wrong in Sunny’s career, how Alyy uses him and how Alyy pays for it eventually could’ve been better explained.

However, despite the blemishes, there’s no denying that Pawan has handled a couple of poignant moments well. The twist in the tale and the confrontation between the lead pair in the middle of the film is super. Also, the transformation in Sunny’s character — how he gradually realizes the importance of a relationship — is prudently dealt with.

A love story is ‘incomplete’ without melodious music and the songs in JO HUM CHAHEIN have the required vigor to entice the youth. Sachin Gupta delivers some lovely compositions, which includes tracks such as ‘Ishq Hothon Se’, ‘Peepni’ and ‘Aaj Bhi Party’. The songs are well choreographed and the icing on the cake is the visual appeal in each track. Talking of visual appeal, the review would be incomplete without acknowledging the contribution by the DoP, Manush Nandan. The film has eye-catching visuals and even otherwise, it’s an incredibly stylish looking film. The production design [Amrita Mahal Nakai and Sabrina Singh] is top notch.

Sunny Gill renders his character with tremendous sincerity. It’s a character, like I pointed out earlier, that’s bona fide and identifiable and Sunny’s performance makes it all the more relatable. Simran Mundi is photogenic and has the potential to grow into a fine actor. She’s a tad self-conscious initially, but illustrates potency in heartrending moments consequently. Alyy Khan is first-rate, while Achint Kaur carries her part with flourish. Yuri Suri, as Sunny’s father, makes his presence felt. Samar Virmani, Sunny’s friend, is self-assured and handles his part well, while Mansi Multani does a fine job. Rithvik Dhanjani is confident.
On the whole, JO HUM CHAHEIN is a decent watch that will require a strong word of mouth to leave a mark.

SISTERS KAREENA AND KARISMA KAPOOR UPCOMING CLASH IN THE SUMMER OF 2012?

Sisters Kareena and Karisma Kapoor Upcoming Clash in the Summer of 2012?

Aah, now how much do we love clash between the biggies when it comes to box office battles! However, this one could well turn out to be a clash of the decade if this indeed happens. Though one has seen two mega stars bringing their biggies opposite each others and sometimes even friends forced to arrive on the same date due to professional reasons, this would be for the first time ever that two siblings would clash with each other. They are none other than Kareena Kapoor and Karisma Kapoor whose Talaash and Dangerous Ishq respectively are aiming for arrival in June next year.

“Yes, this is strange, unfortunate, but true”, says an insider, “It would be a precarious situation for Bollywood if this clash indeed happens and that too over the same weekend. Talaash has been confirmed for 1st June release while Dangerous Ishq too has announced its arrival in the same month. Though it is yet to close on a date, it still risks an arrival which would be way too close for comfort. This clash has to be avoided by all means.”

The worry doesn’t come without a strong reason. After all, Rowdy Rathore has already been confirmed for 15th June and neither would the film budge from its spot nor would Dangerous Ishq think of releasing alongside a film that has names like Akshay Kumar, Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Prabhu Deva involved. The very next week arrives Teri Meri Kahani and that one is a biggie too with Shahid Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra in lead. The week to follow is open and as long as Dangerous Ishq is willing to contend with a one week open run, it should be fine since all eyes would be on Bol Bachchan which arrives next.

“Really, there are too many calculations at play and there has to be good thought given to the arrival ofDangerous Ishq. Kareena won’t have to worry for her film since Talaash being an Aamir Khan starrer won’t change its plans. It would be Karisma who would have to play smart and while it is out of question that she would clash with her younger sister, an arrival on the very next week is ruled out as well. With the kind of packed schedule that June is anyways carrying, it is all the more surprising that the makers even thought of coming in the same month. They would have to wait”, says a trade expert.

While both sisters too would want to stay away from each other by all means as none would wish to jeopardise each other’s plans, there could well be a situation when the makers use this very scenario as a good enough promotional tool that would help their film. As for Kareena, she is pretty much waiting for her sister’s comeback with a bated breath. She says, “I am sure she would recreate the magic she has always been famous for whenever she appears on screen again.”

Hope that happens a few weeks before or after you have weaved your magic Bebo.

ACTRESS KATRINA KAIF IS THE PERSON MOST SEARCHED IN INDIA

Actress Katrina Kaif is the Person Most Searched in India


Like every year, this year too Google Zeitgeist has announced the results of the Most Searched People, Topics, Movies of the year 2011.

The Google Zeitgeist 2011 for India throws up quite a few interesting results. The person topping the list of Most Searched People is none other than Katrina Kaif who believe it or not has even beaten the likes of Anna Hazare who created a nationwide revolution this year. This indeed shows that India is a Bollywood crazy nation.

While Katrina topped the list, her one time beau Salman Khan was not far behind either and came in at No.3 in the list of Most Searched People. Surprisingly, Salman is the only male actor to feature in the list of Top 10 Most Searched People in India. Despite the whole Ra.One frenzy, SRK doesn’t make it to the list of Top 10 Most Searched People in India for the year 2011.

Starlet Poonam Pandey, who shot to fame for promising to strip for the Indian cricket team, is ranked at No. 4 ahead of actors like Aishwarya Rai (No. 6), Kareena Kapoor (No.  8 ) and Priyanka Chopra (No. 10)
The Google Zeitgeist 2011 for Most Searched Movies in India too reveals some interesting stats. Needless to say, its Salman Khan starrer Bodyguard which tops the list followed by Shah Rukh Khan’s ambitious venture Ra.One.

Among other films, Delhi Belly makes it to No.4 in the list of Most Searched Movies in India beating the likes of Singham (No.5), Ready (No.6) and Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (No.10).

SONALI RAUT AND RANVEER SINGH HOT PHOTOSHOOT FOR MAXIM MAGAZINE

Sonali Raut and Ranveer Singh Hot Photoshoot For Maxim Magazine

ACTOR ANSHUMAN JHA AS VILLAIN IN KISMAT LOVE PAISA DILLI

Actor Anshuman Jha As Villain in Kismat Love Paisa Dilli


You saw him play the unsuspecting young lover in Dibakar Bannerjee’s Love Sex Aur Dhokha (LSD). And now, Anshuman Jha is all set to essay the character of the main villain in Vivek Oberoi and Mallika Sherawat starrer Kismat Love Paisa Dilli (KLPD). The film, is a sequel to Abhay Deol’s Ek Chalis Ki Last Local.

When contacted, Anshuman told Mumbai Mirror, “My character is very surreal and a first in Bollywood. Its beauty lies in the writing. I play an innocent-faced devil whose character changes drastically from the first to the second half of the film. I cannot reveal my character’s name. I was a kid when I used to watch Vivek’s films and today, I have a good opportunity to work with him. I’ll try my best to entertain with KLPD. I am really excited.”

After LSD, Anshuman’s next film is going to be Boys Toh Boys Hai, where he plays a sardar.

DELAY IN HEROINE MOVIE DUE TO SAIF-KAREENA WEDDING?

Delay in Heroine Movie Due to Saif-Kareena Wedding?


His first Heroine (Ash) was expecting a baby and had to go on maternity leave, temporarily halting the shoot of the film. And now Madhur Bhandarkar’s lead actress is getting married, which again alters the plans for his ambitious project. Mumbai Mirror has learnt that even before the current schedule of Heroine can end, the second leg of the shoot has been rescheduled as Kareena is to wed her beau Saif Ali Khan around the same time. A friend of the director revealed to us that the second schedule, initially slated to start from the end of January, has been pushed ahead to the middle of February.

The film’s producer Siddharth Roy Kapoor of UTV, who had announced last week that the next schedule of Heroine was to commence “from the end of February to April-May” and then later stated the change in the filming dates, refrained from divulging any further details. When contacted, Bhandarkar also confirmed the change in schedule, saying, “Yes, the second schedule of Heroine will now start in the middle of February instead of the end of January.”

Bhandarkar’s friend explained, “The idea is to complete the second schedule by the middle of March instead of the end of April, so that Kareena can attend to her wedding and personal life in March and April before she returns to work in May.”

According to the director’s friend, Kareena was reluctant to take a break in the middle of the schedule for her wedding. “There is a reason why this decision has been taken. The plan is to complete the schedule, so that Kareena’s performance remains consistent and doesn’t lose the intensity the role demands amidst her wedding plans. This way she gets to enjoy her wedding and honeymoon, before resuming work,” added Bhandarkar’s friend.

ACTOR FARHAN AKHTAR REFLECTS ABOUT HIS MOST DIFFICULT MOVIE SCENE

Actor Farhan Akhtar Reflects About His Most Difficult Movie Scene


The scene that I shot with Naseer (Naseeruddin Shah) Sir in Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara was one of the toughest for me. I was finally meeting my birth father in the film. The film was about three guys having fun on a road trip and suddenly there came a point where I had to shoot this emotional scene. Throughout the film, my character Imran is this one chilled out guy who never takes life seriously. And then in this scene I had to interact with my father...there was disappointment, anger and to an extent even love.

All these emotions had to be expressed in very few words. It was all fine when Kabir and Arjun (Hrithik Roshan and Abhay Deol) were in the scene. The real challenge was facing Naseer Sir alone. But then, Naseer Sir is such a fine actor, it automatically helps the other person perform better.

This was the only scene in the entire film that was so intense. It was shot in Spain. This scene was one of those that take you to a different emotional plane rather than being just an emotional scene. The scene saw the other part of Imran. Luckily, we did not need too many retakes. Thanks to Naseerji.

SEQUEL FOR SAHEB BIWI AUR GANGSTER ON THE WAY

Sequel for Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster On The Way

There’s no denying that SAHEB BIWI AUR GANGSTER was one of the best films of 2011. Enthused by the tremendous response to the film, Tigmanshu Dhulia is now attempting its sequel, which is titled SAHEB BIWI AUR GANGSTER RETURNS. Now here’s the latest on this film.

Though Randeep Hooda’s character in the first part was shown as dead, the actor will be an integral part of the sequel. Also, besides Jimmy Shergill and Mahie Gill, SAHEB BIWI AUR GANGSTER RETURNS will have an additional lead actor and actress enacting pivotal roles. “We are in the process of finalizing the names,” Tigmanshu says. The scripting of the film is underway and is expected to begin filming in February next year.

I have not invented sensuality: Mallika Sherawat

Mallika Sherawat seems to be out of her hibernation and ready to work. She’s back in the country and it looking more stunning than ever. Mallika Sherawat spent the past year in Hollywood, doing some cameo roles in the Hollywood movies. Last year when Mallika Sherawat got an offer to act in a Hollywood movie she was screaming it out loud that “I am going Hollywood” as if she would never be back again. Mallika even developed a fake accent to make it big in Hollywood.

But I guess that didn’t happen and now it seems like Mallika Sherawat’s Hollywood fever has gone down, so she’s back and looking for work. But ask her if Hollywood is her next destination ad she says, “Bollywood movies is and always will remain my first preference. The reason I was in Hollywood because I got some very interesting projects there. Bollywood is my home so how can I live without my home. My next will all be Bollywood projects.”

Mallika Sherawat is whose more infamous for her bold and sensual scenes in Bollywood movies; on a friendly one-to-one went on praising fellow actress Vidya Balan for her ‘sensual and hot portrayal’ in ‘The Dirty Picture’ the actress believes that ‘sensuality’ is just “an extra importance that people give to me.”

Modesty is definitely not Mallika Sherawat’s cup of tea and isn’t one of the many virtues of Mallika, who feels court cases and controversies are but a part of being a ‘true Bollywood star’. Mallika Sherawat herself has been involved in many controversies. Right from the rumors of being divorced and her family drama to her bold and hot scenes in movies likes ‘murder’ and ‘khwaish’ in which she kissed her co-star 17 times. This news created a lot of stir in the world of Bollywood.

Mallika Sherawat is more into item songs in various movies. She currently is the highest paid item performing artist because she gets paid around 60 lakhs for her 20 minutes performance on stage. She already has done a number of item songs which have been immensely popular among the audiences. The recent one being ‘Jalebi Bai’ from the movie ‘Double Dhamaal’: This took her popularity to newer heights.

Mallika Sherawat has always been referred to as a motor-mouth. Mallika Sherawat doesn’t think before saying anything, she just goes on with no matter what; which in return creates a lot of controversies. But people in way like this thing about her and so she has gained in popularity and fan base in the past few years. Even the item numbers that she does in movies have gained popularity and have become huge hits, adding to her star value.

Recently at a press conference Mallika Sherawat said that meeting the US President Barack Obama was one of the most memorable moments of her life. Mallika Sherawat is excited about starting work on her next Hindi film ‘Kismat Love Paisa Dilli’ in which she will play a Delhi bases Punjabi Bombshell opposite Vivek Oberoi

Vidya Balan Sets Fashion Trends for Upcoming Film

There is no doubt about the fact that hottie Vidya Balan is the name to watch out for in Bollywood these days. She has many household successes under her belt and definitely many more to come, now that she has signed to appear in the biopic The Dirty Picture, based on the life and death of Bollywood superstar Silk Smitha. But that’s not the only great news about Vidya Balan going around these days. The singing and acting hottie, set to become a household name in the upcoming period of time, will definitely make loads of money off her next project and those to come. Vidya’s latest and greatest success was her role as Sabrina Lal in the biopic No One Killed Jessica. The film, produced by UTV Spotboy and directed by Raj Kumar Gupta, was a huge success both with critics and audiences and virtually transformed Vidya into a household name.

Giving Back to the Community

Since Vidya will have little to no worries about money on her mind, it has been announced that the star will purchase Saris from small local shops, as she goes on tour to promote her next project and hit songs. Reportedly, Vidya, who has been often photographed wearing some of the most impressive designs of Churidar suits there are, will have local tailors custom-make her matching tops for her sari outfits.

In the Rumor Mill

Not only has Vidya’s professional life been doing great, but rumors have been around since August that she has gotten married to UTV boss Siddharth Roy Kapoor. The two have worked together, vacationed together and been spotted together on lots of occasions, all of them informal, and looking very much like a couple. However, Vidya has not confirmed anything since, except that she is very busy with making The Dirty Picture, which we are sure she was, at the time.

It’s All about Advertising

The Dirty Picture project is being produced by Balaji Telefilms, who has been investing a lot of money and effort into promoting the upcoming film and creating a hype around it. Vidya has been actively involved in this marketing move, of course, and follows the crew on all stops of the promotional tour. She has been to Mumbai where, for the premiere of the film, she performed the song ‘O La La’, in a very sexy, provocative manner and in the best fashion available to a star, of course.

Announced Tour Locations

Allegedly, Vidya will perform in Ahmedabad, Chandigarh, Lucknow and several other locations. Local tailors will be given the opportunity to come up with a blouse concept for the sexpot and sew them for her themselves. So far, the promotional videos for the film showcase the voluptuous Vidya wearing a dazzling red sari, which was apparently inspired by Dimple Kapadia’s similar outfit for the movie Sagar. We would like to see Vidya Balan also try out some elegant Churidar suits or other inspiring fashions, for it is well known that whatever a star touches or puts on instantly becomes hit fashion.

Mallika No More Just a Bollywood Girl

Not many were happy with the way Mallika Sherawat made her way intoBollywood and I am sure not many will be happy with the fame that she has amassed globally. It seems Mallika now is nore limited her roots to Bollywood but is expanding them way beyond the usual Indian cinema. Not only is she being popular in Tollywood but is also gathering votes in Hollywood. ‘Politics of Love’ the Hollywood Romantic Comedy which was released in the United States of America last August has also received accolades all over. You might find it difficult to find the pretty lady difficult to get an interview with but once if you have it you will find her really well spoken and frank. Mallika who made her Hollywood debut with ‘Myth’ got lucky in acting with co-star Jackie Chan. Though her role was limited in the movie she gathered quite some fame in the Hollywood circle. Her latest endeavour William Dear’s ‘Politics of Love is now being praised by one and all. Mallika plays an Indian-American democratic campaign worker in the Hollywood flick. The actress is also states to start another Hollywood movie by this month. The project is stated to be announced soon. “It’s thanks to this movie that I am now being represented by Untitle, a top management in Hollywood. They represent Madonna, Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher. Everything is looking good. It’s a great phase for me right now,” Mallika was heard quoting. Mallika is also pretty excited about the Indian release of the ‘Politics of Love’ however she is not quite sure of the type of response it will receive here. “I am very proud of the film. Just look at the cast, there’s Loretta Devine, an Oscar nominee and Gerry Bednob, an Oscar winner. It’s directed by William, who has made a lot of American classics, not to forget the glowing reviews of the film in the Los Angeles Times. But it has me falling in love with a black-American (Brian White), and that makes me unsure of the audience reaction here,” Mallika again quoted. The actress now-a-days is pretty busy travelling between Los Angeles and Mumbai is striving hard to keep a balance between her East and West lives. Mallika also states that Hollywood is slowly opening up to Artists from all over the globe. It was perhaps the success of Slumdog that brough India in the limelight. Other artists like Gulshan Grover, Anil Kapoor and A.R. Rahman are also doing pretty well in the west.

Music Launch and Vidya – ‘Ooh La La’ on Dirty Picture

There are a lot of expectations from the much awaited ‘Dirty Picture.’ Audiences all over the globe have set their hearts on the release of this flick. The latest comes from the music launch of the movie where actress Vidya Balan electrified the ambience with her super sexy moves. Here’s more. Everyone seemed to be bowled over when Vidya started swaying to the tunes of ‘Ooh La La’. The track has just been released and yet it has emerged to be a massive hit in no time. The outfits Vidya dons in the flick is something which draws much attention and the music launch was no different. Donning a revealing outfit Vidya acted her part that of Silk Smitha in the much awaited flick. Audiences seemed all mesmerised at Vidya shaking her body to the tunes of the highly addictive song. This was indeed the first time that an actress aged 33 performed an item number ‘live’ on stage. The track was also sung by Bollywoodgems – ‘Shreya Ghoshal’ and ‘Bappi Lahiri’. “With the way people have accepted and liked the music I hope they also like the film. I had never thought I would get to perform on Bappi Da’s song. I am happy to be a part of this film and do this performance,” Vidya quoted. The movie centres around a very sizzling concept based on a past Southern sex symbol Vijaylaxmi. Vidya had to go through a big makeover for adapting herself to this role. Other stars who performed with Vidya were co-stars Emraan Hashmi, Naseeruddin Shah and Tusshar Kapoor. “I hope the film creates history,” Hashmi was found saying. Both the singers present at the launch Shreya and Bappi da seemed pretty pleased to be part of the movie. Let’s see if the movie really lives up to its expectations. The cast and crew sure have their fingers crossed.

Desi Boyz & the Dirty Picture Passes Censor Board without Cuts

Amongst widespread speculations about the partiality the censor board shows towards big filmmakers the board today passed of two upcoming movies without a single cut. Many of the small budget filmmakers have often accused the censor board of being biased towards the more famed ones and the censor board proved it true yet again by passing Desi Boyz and The Dirty Picture without any cuts.

The two most awaited movies of the time were examined by the Censor board and guess why they found no offending content in either. The decision to pass both the flicks with no cuts has left many in a state of shock. Apparently both the films got away with a mere ‘A’ certificate.

The Akshay Kumar and John Abraham starrer Desi Boyz seem still disappointed however. It’s makers quoted that they were expecting nothing more than a U/A certificate coz the big budget film starring Akshay, John, Chitrangada and Deepica is supposed to be a family film. The makers seem to be anticipating a lot of trouble mere coz their so called ‘family film’ was branded an ‘A’. One reason for the board’s decision might be the fact that both the lead actors Akshay and John play male strippers in the upcoming flick.

Quite contrary to this feeling the makers of The Dirty Picture who were pretty unsure of the censor board’s decision till sometime back seem pretty glad that their movie was passed without any cuts. It was in news that the Andhra Pradesh High Court had sent the censor board a notice enquiring if the movie was suitable to be released. However, the censor board seems pretty sure that the movie is perfect for release to all adults. I bet the makers of the movie were surprised that the onlookers when the movie passed through the censor board without a single cut.

The role of the censor board has been in speculations lately over releasing films with objectionable content just for the big film makers whereas the small time makers have to sweat it out to get simple sequences passed. Biased or not we are not sure but the chance of watching a completely uncensored film does bring excited smiles on a lot of faces.

Katrina Confesses To Her Relationship With Salman

The most talked about and envied couple in B town Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif’s relationship has gone through many ups and downs over the years. But it has never got any official confirmation from the lady herself, until she gave a green signal recently. In a recent interview with ‘Cosmopolitan’ Katrina officially stated that she had her first serious relationship with Salman.

Salman has given Katrina her big break in Bollywood as the female lead in the film ‘Maine Pyaar Kyun Kiya’. After this film’s release the couple dint do many films together but their relationship was much talked about in tinsel town. Both of them shared an awesome chemistry on and off the screen, they remained in a very long personal relationship. However through these years of relationship Salman Khan had always confessed his relationship with Katrina but Katrina herself remained silent throughout the entire period, until in a recent interview with a magazine she said “Salaman was my first serious relationship”.

Few years back Katrina made a statement in front of the camera that she doesn’t have any more relationship with Salman, not even as a friend. But few years later we saw Salman shaking a leg with her in an item song in the film ‘Tees Maar Khan’ and Katrina is seen doing a cameo in Salman Khan’s ‘Bodyguard’ and presently they are working together for an upcoming flick ‘Ek Tha Tiger’. So even if they have parted away they are still very close with each other and share a very good friendship, and they do not allow their personal relationship to hamper their professional life.

It is believed that when Katrina started to shoot for ‘Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani’ opposite Ranbir Kapoor they got involved in an unspoken relationship. Ranbir’s then girl friend Deepika Padukone has accused Ranbir getting involved with Katrina that caused their break up. And it was when ‘Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani’ was about to release; news of Salman – Katrina’s break up hit the world. Rumors says that Salman being a super possessive and dominating beau had objections of Kat and Ranbir’s closeness, thus Katrina decided to part away. When asked about Ranbir and her relationship, Katrina diplomatically answers that all the talk is just because both of them have done two films together that have worked well for both of them.

Katrina said she is very much single at this point of time. That leaves us with just one question – is she trying to rekindle her relationship with Salman ???

Bollywood’s Blossomed Love Stories: Saifeena

The Nawaab of all nawaabs, Saif-Ali Khan (41). A true performer, a true style icon for all. . . He started his career in Bollywood in 1992 with the film Parampara; although he won the Filmfare Best Male Debut award for his second film Aashiq Awara.

Saif with Ex-Wife Amrita and Kids (Ibrahim and Sara)

A year before entering the industry, 1991— Saif married Bollywood’s beautiful actress Amrita Singh; he spent 13 memorable years with her and had two beautiful children, Sara-Ali Khan and Ibrahim-Ali Khan. In 2004 the two got divorced because of some personal differences; the two children have been living with their mother since. Amrita seems to have kept a friendly gesture towards Saif; as sources say: “Saif is the father of our kids. He is family”  – Amrita had reportedly said this in 2007 to the media after reports of her being back with her ex husband Saif! She had clearly stated that they were not back together and never would be, she said Saif had moved on and that the only reason they might be seen together is because they have common friends as well as the fact that he was the father of her children hence would want to meet them.

After the divorce Saif was said to have been with his Italian girlfriend Rosa Catalona; Amrita had said she had nothing to do with his personal life it was his decision, his life, he could do as he pleased.In 2007 Saif was linked with Yana Gupta, Bipasha Basu as well as Kareena Kapoor; supposedly having possible affairs with them. Ofourse we all know who he was dating but Media needs gossip and that gossip can be created by a simple close friendship.

Having a break-up can be one of the hardest things for anyone; but coming out of it and being able to lead your life is what counts the most! Amrita and Saif have a friendly approach to one another. Having two children who you are connected to makes it harder for the two to not have a friendly approach. . . .

Kareena Kapoor

Bollywood’s Bebo, Madame Tussauds latest attraction and the box office’s number one actress hitting the peak with the highest grossing films in the history of Bollywood! Started her career opposite Abhishek Bachan in the film Refugee (2000); which became a success! She was originally meant to be the heroine of Rakesh Roshan’s film Kaho Na Pyaar Hai however, many days into the shooting she had left the project. Sources say she had stated: “It was probably destined that I was not to be in the film. After all, it was a launch for his son. The whole focus was on the boy. Now I am glad I did not do the movie“ .

Kareena and Shahid from the movie Jab We Met

During the shooting of the film Fida (2004), Kareena and Shahid Kapoor had started dating. They were in the limelight for the obvious reasons that they were dating as well as  for their constant attempts to get the audience to like their “Jodi”. . . I guess that was just not meant to be – 3 years after being together they had a break-up.

According to Shahid they had broken up on good terms, he had said in media reports: “I wish her all the happiness in the world. I have great respect for her. She is a wonderful girl.”  – Whoever said that you can’t be friends with your ex?!

Shahid and Kareena had many attempts at movies together but all were flops, some of which can be named are Chup Chupke, 36 China Town and a few others! They may have not got the success they wanted whilst together but they sure did reach the peak of their careers with them being paired opposite each other in Imtiaz-Ali’s Jab We Met (2007). It won Bebo Filmfare Award for Best Actress and had Shahid nominated for Filmfare Award for Best Actor. The Jodi was just meant to glisten after their break-up! There were many stories about them not getting along, but hey we have live proof of their good gestures!

The Perfect Two

They met in 2007 and fell in love. . . Before this Bebo wouldn’t have even imagined him as her life partner; he has been a co-star to her sister Karishma and has seen the two (Saif and Karishma) work on sets together. . . That was all she knew of him until destiny bought them together!

As Saif once told the Times of India “Kareena and I are extremely compatible” – I couldn’t agree less. . . It has now been 4years since they have been in this ever beautiful bond, each and every day we see them growing stronger as a couple. What would have seemed to be an “unusual” pairing is now classed as Bollywood’s HOTTEST couple! Since the two have been spotted together, they have been the apple of the media’s eye; constantly in the limelight for stories varying from their “so-called” arguments, their rumoured “secret wedding” or their plans for an official wedding. . .These two have been in constant media attention but unlike other past Bollywood couples these two had the maturity to not let anything affect them. They made one simple clarification for each story and moved on with their lives. . . I guess that is why they have remained so strong and are still together today. I am sure that anyone who sees these two would say “I want a love story like Saif-Bebo” and why not?

Saif & Bebo from the movie Kurbaan

They are the perfect two. . . Not just for the media but for each other! Let’s just say they go together like “Strawberry and Crème”!

In 2009 for the very first time Saif had publically talked of his and Bebo’s relationship. Before this they had not spoken of it in the open but had neither denied any reports of them two being together. . . I guess they were waiting for the right time for them to announce it, and why not? It isn’t a bad thought keeping it to oneself till you know for sure its going to last. . . What say?!

Saif and Kareena have tried to work their pairing off in the world of cinema, through films like Omkara (2006), Tashan (2008), they also got their voices used for the Bollywood cartoon Roadside Romeo (2008), Kurbaan (2009) and are now currently working on their new venture together Agent Vinod which is still being filmed and set to release early in 2012! Their pairing didn’t seemed to have worked for their early films; which is probably why Bebo is having to go through so a rollercoaster ride for Saif to make this movie a hit! Saif has reportedly said to Bebo that he would slap her if the movie is a success because she has been constantly nagging him throughout the shootings saying “No I don’t want to run, I don’t want to do action” – Looks like we are going to be seeing Bebo at her level best for her former boyfriend. . . We’ve seen the two in a love story, now its time to see the two doing an action movie together. . . Yes, we have seen Saif do it before but this time we’re going to be seeing the feminine beauty come out of her comfort zone and show us what she’s made of! Will this movie be a hit or not only time will tell; for now they are working really hard on the shooting of this film. . . We can only wish them the best of luck for their venture, hoping that this one will create the big bang they need. Considering Bebo is at the peek of her career right now, she would be wanting to see more hits to keep her at Bollywood’s number one!

You’d expect that someone who has a past life would want to keep it away from their current life; never the less in this love story, the two share literally EVERYTHING with one another. . . Even their past lives! Saif-Ali Khan has said to have introduced his children Sara and Ibrahim to his wife-to-be Kareena during many occasions. On a Coffee With Karan episode Bebo had talked about how she got along really well with the two children especially Sara; she had said that she was like a buddy to them, a friend. . . In the show to be exact “They already have a mother, they don’t need another mother. . . I think they just need a friend which I am” – It isn’t everyday we get to see someone wanting to be a friend to her boyfriend’s ex-wife and kids! Kareena truly has a heart so pure. Saif had also added during the show that sometimes the kids and Bebo tend to get together and take down Saif – the smiles on the two’s faces clearly showed how happy they were with the way things are now.

So we have seen that our Kareena gets a long pretty well with her boyfriend’s children but did you expect her to be just as easy with his ex-wife? Bebo was asked in an interview whether her and Saif talked about past relationships, her reply was “Not really. I respect the fact that Saif was married before and has two lovely children. I have been a fan of Amrita Singh. I haven’t met her ever but I know her through her films. For me, she’ll always have a place of importance in his life because she is Saif Ali Khan’s first wife and the mother of his children. And, I’ve told Saif this. I would want her to have that kind of respect always. This is what my parents have taught me. At the end of the day, it was just a marriage that didn’t work out. I have always encouraged Saif to be friends with her because I think that would be great. I guess they will just need time but that’s something that they would need to deal with. I will always respect her. As far as any other relationship of Saif is concerned, I don’t think they really mattered.” – Atleast we know that Bebo is not amongst those who selfishly want to keep their boyfriends to themselves neglecting their past lives and current responsibilities.

This coming 2012 is going to be having ringing wedding bells for the Kapoor’s and Nawaab’s. . . The couple have confirmed that after the release of their movie Agent Vinod they will be getting married; supposedly late February or early March, hopes are that there will be no delays for the release of their movie. Saif’s Mother Sharmila Tagore has also reportedly told the media that Saif-Bebo will be getting married “very soon”. . . If that isn’t enough than Soha-Ali Khan (Saif’s sister) has also told the media about the two tying the not in 2012 February/March! The 4 year long relationship is finally going to be bound together by the beautiful name of marriage! This looks like a wedding that the whole of India is waiting to see; grand it shall be. . . Now all we wait for is to see Agent Vinod released (hoping for its success) and then wait for the big announcement date of their wedding! Excitement galore. . . May God bless these two and help their strong relationship to be maintained as it is – Ameen!

Deepika Padukone Slaps TV Host

So much of slapping going around! I do not want to comment on whether the slap that Harvinder Singh landed on agriculture minister Mr. Sharad Pawar was right or wrong. It’s a rather complicated issue involving more than just politics but we sure can discuss Bollywood slaps.

Bollywood heartthrob Deepika Padukone recently made news with something other than acting. Yeah! Right! A slap is the foolproof plan to ultimate fame. The industry has changed in different aspects over time but the basics of getting publicity seem to remain the same.

Off late Deepika slapped a television host Vivaan in a newly launched show on Zoom TV. She also had an explanation to the same. Read on and judge for yourself whether the reason was justified.

The actress later stated that the achor of the particular show, Vivaan is a known face to her. He had apparently worked with the famed actress in a not so famed movie, i.e. ‘Karthik calling Karthik’. The slap as it seems was a mere hello to an old acquaintance. Trust me it all started with a slap.

In an interview to a reputed daily the actress clarified that her first shoot of ‘Kartik calling Kartik’ was with Vivaan and it apparently was a scene where she had to slap him. Deepika felt that as it was the first episode of the show it ought to start with a slap. Smart though eh! Well she sure is showing a bold face to the media and her fans worldwide. Deepika also seems to have handled the situation in a pretty cool manner.

For the TV hosts let’s hope Deepika is no more invited to first episodes of shows especially with people she has had a history of slapping. Bold and the beautiful! Is it?

Happy Days Looming For Ritesh

Everything seems to be going well for birthday boy Ritesh Deshmukh, who is now applying the finishing touches to his wedding plans.  It seems, Ritesh has planned a four day wedding ceremony with actress girlfriend Genelia D’Souza. The ceremony is expected to take place in February. Ritesh and Genelia have been dating each other since 2003, when they began theirbollywood career together with the romantic film Tujhe Meri Kasam. They went on to work in the multistarrer comedy film, Masti a year later. Both the films did moderately well at the box office.

The actor, who had a single release in the form of Double Dhamaal this year, did enjoy moderate success at the box office. He is now working with his soon to be bride Genelia on a new film Tere Naal Love Ho Gay which is a romantic comedy, followed by big banner films in the form of Housefull 2 and Kya Kool hai hum 2. All the three films are expected to release in 2012.

A big 2012 year awaits Ritesh, with all these much awaited releases. We wish Ritesh a happy and prosperous personal as well as professional life ahead