There's no groom for me: Mallika Sherawat

She has courted tabloid infamy far too many times, for her outrageous remarks, erratic behaviour and even her leopard print dresses on the red carpet. 

And it looks like the drama queen, Mallika Sherawat, who raised her Hollywood profile through a series of photo-opportunities, now wishes to be portrayed in a kinder light. The actor, based in Los Angeles, is awaiting the release of her Hollywood romantic comedy Politics of Love, alongside Bryan White.

Have you repositioned yourself as the global face of Indian cinema in Hollywood, without consolidating your base in Bollywood? 
I haven't repositioned myself as anything. I did films like The Myth with Jackie Chan and Dasavatharam in the south with Kamal Haasan, which were both outside the Hindi film industry. Bollywood is a mixed bag - the roles on offer from there are unfortunately predictable. But outside Bollywood, be it south India or Hollywood, I have no fixed image and the roles are more diverse.

What about your upcoming Hollywood projects? What are the kind of roles you are being offered? 
My next project which releases theatrically across the US on August 26 is Politics of Love, which is a romantic comedy set during Barack Obama's presidential campaign, in which I play one of his party workers who has a not-so-secret affair with a member of the opposing party.

You are spending more time in LA and New York. Is this an attempt to move away from Bollywood? 
I really like LA and its vibe - it is after all the hub of international film production and there is no better place in the world for someone interested in cinema, showbiz and health food. I can never move away from cinema, and as long as Bollywood and Hollywood continue to make films, I'll try and remain bigamous.

Do you have any Bollywood film now? 
There's only one project I'm excited about right now and the producers are in the process of acquiring the rights of this film. We'll be making an announcement soon.

The Indian press has often viewed your Hollywood stint as more of posed photo opportunities. Is this true? 
The Indian press has written my obituary a dozen times, but for some miraculous reason I keep resurrecting. In spite of all the bashing, and viewing my stint as more of a photo-opportunity, I'm still standing.

Reportedly, the Bhatts made a comment that Jacqueline is hotter than Mallika Sherawat. What's your take on that? 
That's for them and the audience to decide, not me.

Your red-carpet outings at Cannes and other international awards functions have been panned by the fashion police in India. Are you affected by these reports? Also, who are your favourite fashion designers? 
I haven't had the time to read such reports. I have worn Anita Dongre, Ashley Rebello and Shahab Durazi's creations from India and Max Azria, Dolce & Gabbana and the French Couture Designer - Eric Tibush from the west and shoes by Nando Muzi.

Any plans for marriage? 
I've been planning my marriage for a while, and have worked out the location, wedding dress, menu, etc., but there's no groom yet. 

Once a upon a time in safe Mumbai...

The recent bomb blasts in the city has made me think and wonder why Mumbai is the target for repeated terror attacks.  Why innocent people living a normal life have to die for no fault of their own?  We talk about the spirit of Mumbai and how people even after the day of the bomb blasts chose to go back to their offices. It’s not just resilience but their need to earn a living that forces them to step out at the risk of something like this happening again. While the government is helpless the people have no one to safeguard their lives. Influx of people in the city cannot be cited as an example for intelligence failure. Look at places like Thailand and Singapore which are tourists spots but you hardly see them being attacked every second day. Three blasts in an hours time is a serious security flaw. As an individual I have to think twice when I am travelling in the city, watching my back at all times. This feeling of insecurity and helplessness needs to be addressed at the earliest. There was a point in time when Mumbai was safe, the spirit is still alive but the blasts have left a mark on everyone's minds and hearts.

Shahid Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra are bonding

Here's looking at on-off lovebirds Shahid Kapoor andPriyanka Chopra on the sets of their film in Stratford-Upon-Avon. They've been there a for week now. 

Whether it's to do with being in William Shakespeare's birthplace or the generally pleasant weather in the UK, their chemistry on the outdoor shoot is far different from what we get to see back home. 

An eyewitness confirms that the good looking couple weren't just coolly comfortable, they were constantly together and couldn't seem to stop talking in-between takes. 

The next schedule of the film starts today in Nottingham, where Dhoni's boys will be taking on England in the second Test.

Donate film's profits: Neeraj Grover's dad tells RGV

Ram Gopal Varma has reportedly filed a caveat in court to ensure that his controversial film "Not A Love Story" is not stalled by any of the concerned parties going to court to stay the release of his film.

The film, based on the life of actress Maria Susairajwho was accused of allegedly murdering Kanpur boy Neeraj Grover along with her lover EmileJerome Mathew, has already faced many objections.

Reacting to RGV's latest ploy, Neelam Grover, mother of Neeraj Grover, says, "Earlier, we were planning to go to the court against the film. But when we were in Delhi, Mahesh Bhatt spoke on our behalf to Ram Gopal Varma to find out if the film shows anything related to casting couch. RGV assured him that the film had no such content. It only shows how Neeraj was brutally murdered and how Jerome is behind bars because of Maria's act. Since then we have been patiently waiting for the release of the film."

Neeraj's father, Amar Nath Grover, adds, "As a father I just want that my son's image should not be tarnished." However, he comes up with an interesting condition. "I want RGV to make a trust in Neeraj's name, either in Mumbai or Kanpur. He should donate a part of his earnings from the film to the trust," he says, adding, "The trust would work to provide medical facilities to the underprivileged. I am also okay if Ram Gopal Varma gets a two-three room polyclinic constructed in Kanpur, which is taken care of by the trust. I don't want to be a beneficiary of the trust. If the film in anyway shows my son in bad light, then the work done by the trust would help me in protecting his image."

Sanjay, Arshad out of 'Munnabhai' series?

Munnabhai and Circuit are ready to get a makeover. In fact, they might change completely in the third part in the series. 

As things stand today, Sanjay Dutt (who turns 52 today) and Arshad Warsi might not return with the next Munnabhai film, revealed a source close to the film. In fact, it seems, producer Vidhu Vinod Chopra wants a complete makeover for his superhit franchise. This despite the stars being the main reason behind the film being successful.

Explaining the filmmaker's change of heart, the source added, "Sanjay and Arshad looked very different in 2006. by the time the third part is ready, it could be another two years. Keeping this in mind, a fresh and young cast is being considered for the two male leads."

The source further revealed, that it's not just the cast that's being discussed. Rajkumar Hirani might not hold the directorial reins either. A source close to Hirani said, "Hirani has finished writing his super script which he refers to as his dream project. Naturally, it will be with a big hero. He is fast working out the cast."

However, the director might co-produce the same. According to the source, "Rajkumar Hirani is very close to the Munnabhai series. Even if he doesn't direct the third, he will be attached to the project in some way. He might co-produce it with a completely new director."

So producer Vidhu Vinod Chopra is now fast looking for a new director to shoulder the responsibility of the third film in the superhit franchise. Mumbai Mirror, on July 11, reported that the Do Dooni Chaar director Habib Faisal might step into Hirani's shoes. And now, we hear that the producer has approached Kites director Anurag Basu for the same.

"However, Basu's inclusion is a bit unlikely as he is very busy with Barfee for UTV. Hence, Faisal is the most likely selection. Vidhu has a fabulous equation with Faisal as well, which might work to Faisal'as advantage," added our source.

The third film in the Munnabhai series was supposed to be Munnabhai Chale Amerika. In 2006, an excited Arshad Warsi aka Circuit had confirmed to section of the media, saying, "Munnabhai Chale Amerika will go on floors next year and we'll start shooting then." A few trailers had also been shot for the project with Sanjay Dutt and Arshad Warsi.

"The Munnabhai Chale Amerika script has been dropped. Something different has been envisaged for the third part. The script will be ready soon. An official announcement will be made soon in this regard," says the source.

Last time when we had asked him, Hirani had shot back saying, "I am writing it and will direct it as and when the script is ready." 17 days later, the scenario has changed. This time, he did not revert back. Vidhu Vinod Chopra also remained unavailable for comment. 

Life is like Bubble Gum for Sohail Lakhani and Delzad Hiwale

Screen siblings Delzad Hiwale and Sohail Lakhanishare a lot of traits with the characters they play in Bubble Gum. 

Says Delzad who plays 14-year-old Vedant,"I had decided that I just had to get this role. Vedant is so much like me. I have had my share of crushes and I am naughty too. When Sanjivan sir (the film's director) said yes, I was speechless." Hearing impaired and mute since birth, Sohail Lakhani, who plays Vedant's elder brother Vidur, communicates using sign language on screen as well as off screen. He signs, "Delzad steals in the film and I have to pull his ears and even beat him to get him back on track. But in real life, he is very sweet. The cast and he attended a special workshop to be able to talk to me. I feel as if he is my brother in reality. I have found a true friend in him."

"He gets very sentimental," mumbles Delzad and then pipes in, "We had a great time working on Bubble Gum. It was like a great, big picnic. For now, the duo has their fingers crossed as the film hit theatres yesterday.

On the run!

It has been a fantastic week for me and my team. We are really happy with the response we got for our film, Singham. It got a great opening and fabulous results - but on the flip side there was no rest for me and my team! We shot for Big Boss season five on the next day of the release with my favourite jodi Sanjay Dutt and Salman Khan. We had a music video and about a dozen of promos to shoot with them with very little time in our hands and quickly finished it.

 

Now I am currently with my team in Jaipur for my next film Bol Bachchan's recee. The weather here is quite unpredictable. If it's hot and sunny on the first day the next day it's rainy and cold but it's always great to be here in Jaipur. The colours, the architecture and the food are mindblowing. Laal maans and paneer ke ghevar top my list of favorite Rajasthani food. Jaipur is a beautiful city with beautiful people. It has a rich culture and amazing hospitality.

I am currently locking all the locations and finalizing my schedule for Bol Bachchan but it's still a long way to go! The locals here have already seen Singham and been coming to us and telling us how much they loved the film. Ajay Devgn and Prakash Raj surely have some great fans here who've been going for Singham's back to back shows. I am overwhelmed by their love for me and my films.

Apparently, Singham is doing very well at the box office and I am really very happy about it. I was with my team at a Mumbai single-screen theatre on the first day of release and loved the audience response to the film. A theatre is the perfect place to judge a film. The whistles and claps are stilling echo in my head...

Mission Accomplished! 

PS: I am very thankful to my audience who've kept my films alive in the theatres and most importantly in their hearts.

Cheers! RS

Gulshan Grover was initially hesitant about Kalam

It's hard to believe that 'Bad Man' Gulshan Groverwas hesitant about playing a part in the National award-winning I Am Kalam. 

The actor plays lover-boy in the film and those who have seen early previews of the film say that Bollywood's veteran baddie (who plays a good guy in this flick) shares a "heartwarming yet hilarious" romance with French actress Beatrice Ordeix in I Am Kalam.

While this won't be the first time he has been paired with an international face - Katrina Kaiffamously played his love interest in her screen debut Boom - it certainly won't be his last, either (he is rumoured to be cast opposite Salma Hayek in a Hollywood film).

Gulshan has been appreciated for his restrained, real and natural performance in I Am Kalam. He is the film's flag-bearer in Hollywood and the likes of Goldie Hawn, Steven Segal, Sharon Stone,Pamela Anderson, Bill Duke, Marry Parent (chairperson, MGM) have appreciated the film and his work in it. But the biggest reward came in the form of advice from his son Sanjay Grover, an executive with MGM, "Dad, you must do more films like I Am Kalam." We'll second that!

Sanjay Leela Bhansali is a planter

Here's a little-known fact about Sanjay Leela Bhansali: he's a die-hard environmentalist. 

The director believes in leading by example and is in the process of planting more trees in his vicinity to encourage a pollution-free environment. Says a source, "Sanjay Leela Bhansali speaks very passionately on the cause to close friends and family. The pollution in the city is the greatest concern to him and he is of the opinion that making small changes could go a long way. For now, he has decided to plant more trees and encourage others to do so." Salman Khan also loves planting trees and has a huge garden at his Panvel farmhouse. The question is: who influenced who?

Deepika's a good sport

When Deepika Padukone decided to financially support sporting talent in the country, she was thinking of working as an individual. 

Little did she know that her father was thinking of doing the same thing, but on a much larger scale. Prakash Padukone and Geet Sethi have joined hands for Olympic Gold Quest, with which they're supporting sporting talent from across the country for the 2012 Olympics in London. And when Deepika, a director on the board of the organization, was in town to launch the initiative's website, she chatted with us about sports and more.

Sports I love: I follow badminton and since now I am on board, I also follow what our athletes do, which is boxing, shooting, athletics and some cricket, some Formula One

My association means: Hopefully, it'll creates awareness. I really do believe there's so much talent in the country, and there's always been a lack of resources and infrastructure to support it. With an organization like this and with the right kind of funding, we can support these athletes not just financially, but also physically, mentally and emotionally.

My athlete friends: I have just come on board, and this is the first time I am interacting with Mary (boxer MC Mary Kom) and Gagan (Narang, the shooter). I've met Mary once earlier. They are all shy and reserved people. I've known Saina (Nehwal) for a while because of my badminton days. But we are not in touch now.

support for sports: I always wanted to do something like this, in my own capacity, maybe send my own team to spot talent, and tell me that so and so is doing well and I can financially help them. This was till I spoke to my dad about this and he said that Geet and I are setting this up on a much larger scale, we'll have a board of directors... Then I said that it made sense for me to join hands with them and create awareness and support the cause. Even as a child, I knew what I wanted to do, so when I gave up badminton for films, I knew that when I become famous, I'd support the cause of sports. 

My weight has become a national issue: Zarine Khan

Looking pretty in a tomato red, one-shoulder sexy short tunic, the monsoon in Mumbai is a welcome change for actress Zarine Khan. More so, as this time around, appreciation galore has been pouring with the rain. Her item number Character Dheela with Salman Khan in Ready has been well received. 

A beaming Zarine says, "I'm loving the attention. I was written off after my debut in Veer. Now, steadily, the perception is changing. Yet, people aren't always noticing my acting skills. My weight has become a national issue. Even on the Internet, I see that my weight is a point of constant discussions. And I fail to understand why. Aren't Indian women known for being voluptuous. Indian men don't even like thin women, so why is everyone trying to look like ramp models in the west? Where is our uniqueness and individuality then," she asks. We agree.

Shooting for Housefull 2 and a film opposite Vikram down south in her kitty, Zarine's raring to go. Success spells a lot of hard work and she's ready to slog. Her heated run-ins with Sonakshi Sinha and Asin over Salman Khan is a thing of grapevine legend. She clarifies, "I don't come from an influential family. So, there's no-one who speaks on my behalf. But whenever I meet up with Sonakshi or Asin, we laugh it off. I never get back or speak up on what's being written about me. I consider these rumours a part of the celebrity status," she adds sensibly.

Living in a city, which never sleeps, aamchi Mumbai is home to Zarine. With a handful of close friends, she makes sure she has her share of fun. "Monsoon always reminds me of my childhood days. And I would like to dance around with an umbrella as if no one's watching and then go all naughty and get dirty in the mud," she concludes with a dimpled smile.

Salman, the 50 crore Khan

Cashing in on his recent success at the box-office, Salman has increased his fees, becoming one of the highest paid actors in Bollywood 

With Aamir Khan and Shah Rukh Khan taking full control of their box-office successes and turning it into a financial gold mine, how can Salman Khanbe left behind? The actor enjoying his recent success run in Bollywood, with two back to back hits in Dabangg and Ready, has decided to demand a whopping Rs 50 crore for his next project.

Salman who used to charge around Rs 40 crore for his films, has now hiked his fees and is charging Rs 50 crore per film. At present Salman is in a commanding position at the box-office. And his business manager Matrix is ensuring that Salman's market demand translates into big bucks.

Two filmmakers who have recently signed on Salman, alleges that the star has indeed hiked his price. Also, following in the footsteps of his Khan counterparts, the actor is taking more than a keen interest in all his upcoming projects by calling the shots in terms of casting of the film.

A source says, "Salman is not only quoting a fee close to Rs 50 crore, he is also 'recommending' (read: appointing) directors for these films. Like, for the T Series project Salman has put forward the names of two directors and has asked producer Bhushan Kumar to choose from one of them. Furthermore, he insisted on Sonakshi Sinha for Kick and now he's recommending Zarine Khan to his prospective producers."

Filmmaker Bhushan Kumar admits that Salman's price is being re-negotiated and restructured. "When Salmanbhai did Ready the film industry was facing a huge financial crunch. But he agreed to cut down his price from Rs 40 crore to Rs 17 crore.

This was the only way we could have made Ready at that time. Now the market has changed for the entire film industry. So, we are currently re-negotiating with him for our next film," he says.

I'm too young to do an item number: Shazahn Padamsee

Shazahn Padamsee is back in India after shooting some portions of Sajid Khan's Housefull 2 inLondon.
After her cutesy portrayal of a working girl in Madhur Bhandarkar's Dil Toh Bachcha Hai Ji, ask the actress what we should expect in Housefull 2 and she says, "Well, Sajid sure knows to how to glam up the women in his films, so you'll just have to wait and watch!"
As she waits for this film to complete, ask Shazahn the kind of roles she'd like to do in future and she says, "The length of a role will never matter to me. It's what difference my character will make to a film that I'll be looking at with keen interest. Whatever film I choose to do, I'd like to stand out in the film."
Tell her that these days doing an item song is the best way to stand out and she says, "I'm way too young to do an item number!" Ask her to explain and she says, "I am at any age where I should be focusing my energies more on doing quality films, though I must admit some of the item songs are wonderfully choreographed! Right now, it's meaty roles that interest me."
As she speaks about interests, ask the pretty actress what interests her apart from acting and she says, "I love to work out, do my pilates work out, jump on the trampouline it's something that gives me a high. Also I am a big time foodie and love to check out any new restaurant in town."

Cats are cool to hang out with

Dogs seem to be out and about with their owners all the time: going for walks, playing in parks, riding in cars, even joining in on shopping trips or family vacations. But while they may not get as much public face time, cats can be just as cool to hang out with -- maybe even cooler. Give it a try and you'll find that engaging in fun activities with your feline friend can prove to be endlessly entertaining, and doing so may strengthen the bond between you as well. I belong to that world where we find people less affectionate towards individuals but more towards their pets.

I love my cats and don't know what I would do without them.I have been nurturing and looking after nine cats at my home. I know many may not believe this but I am extremely attached to my cats - so much so that every night before going to sleep I make sure that the cats are well fed. I have even bought little costumes for them and take them out for a walk myself every weekend whenever I get time from my shoots and events. I call them my babies. Initially I had 11 cats but two of them were stolen from my apartment last month. I don't know how that happened and whenever I think about them I feel very sad... I have lodged a complaint regarding the same but my cats are still missing. I still mourns for my two lost babies and is willing to do anything to get them back...

Two heroines can never be friends

Heroines can be friendly.  However no two heroines can be friends. The reasons are simple.  First we are all vying for the same roles so we're direct competitors.  Competitors cannot be friends.  Second we are all extremely busy.  When we have a little time we want to spend it with family or friends who are not connected to the industry.

In 2011, I haven't spent more than three weeks at home.  I have been constantly travelling from Bhopal to London to Hyderabad. When schedules are so hectic, it is tough to catch up with even family, leave alone friends. But it is not as if we want to gorge each other's eyes out. We are definitely civil with one another. Too much is made by the media about my interactions with Kareena Kapoor or Katrina Kaif.

When Kareena is on set with Saif we are very cordial.  As for Katrina, yes I bumped into her at Karan Johar's party and we did say hello and shake hands.  Again that doesn't qualify for a friendship.

I like Sonam Kapoor a lot but we have not been able to keep a friendship going. The reason is simple. We are both so busy. With the guys it is easier to have a nice equation.  I like Imran Khan and his wife Avantika. We hung out during Break Ke Baad. And even now it would easier for me to do dinner with Imran and Avantika than any of the heroines.

I have always loved Sanjay Dutt: Karan Johar

In a scenario where villains are dominating the imagination of the Indian cinegoer, Sanjay Dutt - who plays the antagonist in Karan Johar's remake of Agneepath - stands tallest. 

The Bollywood khalnayak, who turns 52 today, has apparently deciphered the mutiple layers of this new version of the Agneepath baddie giving him a rustic touch, leaving his producer KJo and director Karan Malhotra completely astonished.

Says KJo, "I have always loved Sanju and known him since I was five. I will get to our professional equation later, but first I must start with our personal relationship. Our fathers (Yash Johar and Sunil Dutt) were good friends. Sanju used to call my father buddha uncle because dad had salt and pepper hair and was partially bald very early in life. Just the other day I was over at his home for dinner and I met his two adorable kids Shahran and Iqra. Sanju was telling his son to call me buddha uncle! It was a very nostalgic moment."

Shifting gears, Karan talks of Agneepath, a film that has brought the two of them together for the first time. Says he, "When I approached Sanju for the film, there were no questions asked. He didn't ask for a script; no modalities were discussed. It was blind trust. Sanju is all heart and I'm touched by his implicit faith in my banner Dharma Productions and me."

Revealing how the protagonist Vijay (played by Hrithik Roshan) and the antogonist Kancha (Sanjay) are completely different in this 2012 verison, Karan says, "I have seen the rushes and I must tell you that Hrithik and Sanju are just terrific together. Sanju has intepreted Kancha with a rustic tonality and a panache that is hard to describe. The result will be there for everyone to see when the film releases on January 13, 2012. We will all emerge victorious."
According to Karan, Sanju's Kancha avatar is like no other bad man ever seen in a Bollywood film. "The texture he has brought to the character is something unusual," he smiles.

Wishing Sanju a Happy Birthday, Karan says, "He is one of the most amazing guys I have known. He is the baba of the Hindi film industry and I hope he stays the way he is - all heart and no guile."

Shahid Kapoor becomes a poet

After finishing his shooting for "Mausam', Shahid Kapoor is up and running as he has already started the shooting of another movie.
The actor is shooting in none other than the great poet, Shakespeare, birthplace, Stratford-upon-Avon. He tweeted on Thursday, "Shooting away in Shakespeare's birth place stradford upon avon..some lines of the master that I love." Ad it doesn't end here as later he even tweeted lines of poetry.
"Love is merely a madness", "Love Comforteth Like Sunshine after rain", "Better a witty fool Than a foolish wit", "This above all- to thine own self..Be true." Well, guess it's the after effect of shooting a love story.

Will DU debate Aarakshan?

Last year, Prakash Jha wanted to hold a discussion with students in DU about politics to promote 'Rajneeti', but Delhi Police didn't give the team permission to make an appearance on campus. 

Two weeks ago, Jha was denied permission by Lucknow University to hold a discussion about the issue of reservation in education, between Amitabh Bachchan and students, for his latest film, "Aarakshan".

Now, Jha wants to bring the film's cast - Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone, Amitabh Bachchan, Manoj Bajpayee and Prateik - to Hindu College on August 5, if the Delhi Police permits, that is. The actors will address the students on the issues of reservation and commercialisation of education. Pradyumn Kumar, vice president of Hindu, confirmed, "We've spoken to them and have expressed our willingness. Their aim is to have a discussion with the students about commercialisation of higher education and reservation, and since both Praksh Jha and Manoj Bajpayee are from DU, they understand the relevance of the subject in campus. But since such big names are coming, especially Mr Bachchan, we asked them to sort out security issues first.

While Jha and Bajpayee are Ramjas alumni, other Hindu alumni also have plans. Manish Tiwary, who shot "Dil, Dosti, Etc" in Hindu, is auditioning for the female lead for his next film in Hindu. And Imtiaz Ali may come in August to promote "Rockstar" there.

Aamir Khan recycles for Imran

You think Aamir Khan's got the newest promotional techniques? Think again. zoOm's sources revealed a shocking secret about Mr Perfectionist's latest promotional song, I Hate You from Delhi Belly. 

Rumour has it that Aamir had shot the video three years ago for another film. He had even approached an actress to star with him in the song. The actress refused so Aamir decided to keep this one in store for a better opportunity in the future. And voila, bhanja Imran's film proved to be the right chance. While Aamir said that he had digitally removed his moustache (he's sporting one for Reema Kagti's next) for the song, the real reason why he looked chikna is that the video goes way back. He's a promotional whiz alright. Even if it means recycling the old for new.

Ashmit is a born flirt, says Ameesha Patel

Sibling rivalry is a passe. We've seen a lot of sibling love in the industry off-late. 

The latest examples - Zoya and Farhan's joint efforts on Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara and Salman and his 'khan'daan going overboard with Dabangg 2, Sher Khan and what not. But this bhai-behen jodi has never really shared its stories, let alone promoting each other. zoOm spoke to Ameesha Patel, who was looking glamorous as ever in a red gown at a fashion event, and she seemed more than happy to talk about younger brother Ashmit. He's soon debuting on the small screen with a TV show, so we asked Ameesha whether he was the right choice for the show. She winked at us and with a smirk, confessed, "Perfect. He's a born flirt and he's great eye candy. They've selected the perfect host for the show." Aha! Tell us more about Ashmit's flirty ways Ameesha... so that the ladies can make their moves!

Shraddha Kapoor likes reusing vintage pieces

Shraddha Kapoor shares her fashion mantra

What is your style quotient? 
Style to me is an outward expression of your individuality. It's an extension of your beliefs, thought processes and the person you are. It's a reflection of your moods, your biases and your experiences. My style of dressing is extremely personal. I am impressionable only to a certain extent. The rest of it is my personal concoction consisting of my favourite trends. My favourite outfits right now are suspenders, bow ties, and as always, I love quirky details. I absolutely love colour, so I love experimenting with that.

Which are the colours you prefer? 
My favourite colours are purple and yellow, and I love to experiment with other colours too. Purple has been a childhood favourite and recently I feel in love with yellow because I discovered that it complements me.

Your must-have accessories. 
I love to splurge. If I fall in love with a particular thing, then there's no stopping me from acquiring it. More than shopping and acquiring new things, I strongly believe in reusing and restyling vintage pieces. Luckily, my mom and aunts have a beautiful collection of vintage pieces which they gift me sometimes, and which I love to use. I have a pretty good collection of shoes and accessories.

Your idea of party wear? 
I don't like to be totally 'decked up' and unrelatable when I'm going out. Although I love to dress up, a very striking part of my dressing is that it is very individualistic. I could wear anything from jeans to shorts to maxi skirts or dresses, but the styling is the most important part, ie how to team things and put an outfit together.

Your little experiments in style? 
I recently wore a pair of stalkings with hearts running down the centre. Also quirky hairdos, bright suspenders, my favourite geeky glasses, bow ties, etc.

As told to Bushra S Khan

Salman Khan in Hema Malini's 'Tell Me O Khuda'

Bollywood superstar Salman Khan has agreed to be a part of Hema Malini's directorial venture Tell Me O Khuda".
"Salman Khan has been very gracious to be a part of my film 'Tell Me O Khuda'. What an adorable person!!!!" the veteran actress said the star in her post on Twitter. The film is said to be Hema's attempt to re-launch her daughter Esha Deol.
It tracks the story of a girl's passionate quest to know her origins. The film also stars Dharmendra, Vinod Khanna, Rishi Kapoor, Arjan Bajwa and Chandan Roy Sanyal.

Karisma Kapoor in Satte Pe Satta?

After failing to convince Vidya Balan and then Aishwarya Rai Bachchan to play the female lead in his remake of Satte Pe Satta, Soham Shah seems to have finally found his lady to fill in Hema Malini's shoes. 

Sanjay Dutt, the producer and the lead actor of the project asked Karisma Kapoor to step in as the heroine. Karisma is reading the script and is very much interested in doing the film, revealed sources. 

The source added, "Sanjay wants a very Indian looking girl. After Aishwarya refused to work in the film despite Dutt trying hard to convince her, Dutt had approached his Lagey Raho Munnabhai costar Vidya Balan. She too had declined the offer. 

A few days before he spoke to Vidya, Dutt had spoken to Karisma who at the time had clearly told him that she was not interested in making a comeback." 

However, since then, Karisma changing her mind about returning to Bollywood, signed on Vikram Bhatt's project Dangerous Ishq. Sanjubaba, realising that Karisma was now serious about her comeback, approached the actress again. This time, Karisma showed keen interest in the project. She is expected to inform Dutt about her decision by next week.

Zoom Supernova 2010: Top 50

If the people on the zoOm Supernova list, shut shop or moved away, Bollywood as we know it would cease to exist. Or be unrecognizable in the very least. 

That's the kind of power they wield over the film industry. Sure, they may not be able to move mountains or walk on water (just yet) but it's amazing what they can accomplish with their star pull. The folks on this list are supernovas in every sense of the term, with the Top 10, holding the clout to change fortunes. Be it numero uno Salman Khan, who made a complete newbie (Sonakshi) a household name with just one film and showed an ex (Katrina Kaif), that managing without him in B-Town would be difficult despite her own meteoric rise or an Aamir Khan, who's widely considered the maai-baap of marketing, Rajinikanth who is a demigod unto himself, for Shah Rukh Khan who may be lower down the order but is the preacher of the power of PR (public relations) and has a stranglehold on the overseas market, they're all masters of the game. It took A R Rahman's awesome music to propel a film like Slumdog Millionaire and an acting veteran like Anil Kapoor into the Hollywood stratosphere. And how can we forget Katrina Kaif, the Sheila who salvaged the initial opening of Tees Maar Khan with her moves in one scorching item number and is the only gal on our top 10. Together, they make the B-Town world go round...

Zoom Supernova Top 50 
1. Salman Khan, Actor
2. Aamir Khan, Actor/Producer
3. Rajinikanth, Actor
4. Shah Rukh Khan, Actor/Producer
5. Ar Rahman, Music Director
6. Amitabh Bachchan, Actor
7. Ajay Degvn, Actor/Producer
8. Hrithik Roshan, Actor
9. Katrina Kaif, Actor
10. Ranbir Kapoor, Actor
11. Karan Johar, Producer/ Director
12. Deepika Padukone, Actor
13. Priyanka Chopra, Actor
14. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Actor
15. Akshay Kumar, Actor/Producer
16. Kareena Kapoor, Actor
17. Shahid Kapoor, Actor
18. Vidya Balan, Actor
19. Imran Khan, Actor
20. Arbaaz Khan, Actor/ Producer
21. Raj Kumar Hirani, Director
22. Aditya Chopra, Producer/ Director
23. Prakash Jha, Director
24. Ekta Kapoor, Producer
25. Arjun Rampal, Actor
26. Sanjay Dutt, Actor/Producer
27. Saif Ali Khan, Actor/Producer
28. Kajol, Actor
29. Anil Kapoor, Actor/Producer
30. Anil Ambani, Producer
31. Bhushan Kumar, Producer
32. Ronnie Screwvala, Producer
33. Vishal Bhardwaj, Director/Music Director
34. Farhan Akhtar, Actor/Producer/Director
35. Sonu Nigam, Singer
36. Vishal Shekhar, Music Directors
37. Pritam, Music Director
38. Malaika Arora Khan, Actor/Producer
39. Javed Akhtar, Lyricist
40. Sajid Khan, Director
41. Rani Mukerji, Actor
42. Vidhu Vinod Chopra, Director/Producer
43. Farah Khan, Director/Producer
44. Shankar Ehsaan Loy, Music Directors
45. Sunny Deol, Actor/Producer
46. Manish Malhotra, Fashion Designer
47. Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Director
48. Rakesh Roshan, Director/Producer
49. Ashutosh Gowariker, Director/Producer
50. Madhur Bhandarkar, Director

Nikhil Advani's next in 3D

Nikhil Advani is all set to become the first Indian director to make a 3D digital animation film. His filmDelhi Safary, which is scheduled to release in September, is being converted for a 3D experience. 

The success of the recent Hollywood 3D animation movies made the director Nikhil Advani think. "Recently, 3D films like Ice Age 3, Monsters vs Aliens,How To Train Your Dragon have done well in India. 

This inspired Nikhil to convert his film to 3D. And, of course, the success of Haunted proves that Indian audiences like the 3D experience," said the source. When contacted, the director admitted that he is indeed converting Delhi Safary. "Yes we did start the film as a normal animation film. 

But some months ago, we decided to convert the film into 3D. We have been working to match it to international standards. So yes, Delhi Safary will indeed be India's first 3D animation film," said Advani. 

The director also denied that his film has been delayed. "Well it's true that we started four years back, but then animation takes time. Finding Nemo took seven years. Making an animation film is a different ballgame altogether," he added. Delhi Safary was the first project that Advani started working on after Salaam-E-Ishq.

The story is about a group of five animals from Borivali National Park going to Delhi to meet the Prime Minister, pleading that they stop encroaching forests. Actors like Akshaye Khanna, Govinda, Suniel Shetty, Boman Irani and Urmila Matondkar have lent their voices to the film.

Celebs at Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara screening

It was a special screening of Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara. The Khan family, who loves movies, was there in full force to watch it. 

Salim Khan attended the screening with wife Salma, while Arbaaz Khan and wife Malaika Arora Khan too made an appearance. Adhuna Akhtar, Zoya Akhtar and Poorna Jagannathan formed a girl gang. Katrina Kaif made a blink-and-miss appearance for the Khans.

Salman Khan is No. 1

Salman Khan has delivered the biggest hit of the past year. Not only this, he has also topped theZoom Supernova 2010: Top 50 list. This comes not just from box office hits, but also unconditional support from fans and supporters. B 

e it his last release Ready or Dabangg - the biggest hit of 2010 - Salman has proved his detractors wrong and emerged numero uno. His producer- directors are nothing but praise for him. A director says, "Salman is a dream to work with. He has this natural charm and ability to connect with his fans on many levels. He truly deserves this hard-earned success."

Arbaaz Khan, who is not only Salman's brother but also the director of the Dabangg 2, says, "Salman has been the hottest for the family year after year. As far as his popularity is concerned, his audience will be able to explain that better."

While Kabir Khan, who is working on his next with Katrina Kaif, reveals, "Salman has a unique combination of connecting with the masses. They truly believe him to be their bhai and yet he is able to project an aspirational, larger-than-life image."

I am not engaged: Abhay Deol

It started out as one of the many speculated link-ups in Bollywood, but after his professional high post Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, Abhay Deol has decided it's time to speak up about his clandestine romance with Ms Britain, Preeti Desai. 

The couple's relationship has frequently been examined by the media. And so, the actor spoke to Mumbai Mirror to dispel all the speculations and set the record straight once and for all. "There have been speculations which questioned if I was dating her or if I was not, if we are engaged or not. But, I am not engaged," revealed Abhay.

As rumours of their relationship spread like wildfire, so did the ones about their break up. When asked if being on the media radar all the time has affected his relationship, Abhay said, "Speculations lead to a lot of stories in the media, which are entirely untrue. I am very happy where I am and I am not denying that I am in a relationship and that's as much as I can share. I find it normal for people to ask all these questions.

The media has been very good in reporting about our relationship by stating that I want to keep it personal and that's how I prefer it, as it's my personal life after all. If I start sharing my personal life, then it won't be personal at all. Since I am in the public space, it is granted that the media would be involved. However, everybody around me knows about our relationship and so, it would be silly of me to deny the fact that I am dating her."

Interestingly, just when Abhay has attracted a major female fan following, after his role in ZNMD, he has knocked himself off the eligible bachelor list. And so, when asked if the confirmed news of his relationship will turn the ladies off, Abhay candidly replied, "I had female fan following after Dev.D too but that was when I played a bad guy. With ZNMD, I portrayed the good boy. It's like a full circle. When you ask if I will break hearts, I do not think so as people will still have their fantasies. In fact this adds to it.

Hrithik is married with kids but that has not taken away any of his female fan following. There is a certain attraction towards married men with kids. If the attraction is there, then it will remain and if it is not there, it will never be there."

While the actor has admitted to his relationship, he is reluctant to give it a label. "We haven't made too many public appearances, just two. One was at Ekta Kapoor's party and another was at a magazine party. We have already been seeing each other for a while. However, we are not people who like to define the relationship or put it in a box. But the world does. So, okay let's call it a relationship. She is happy, I am happy so why not?"

Om Puri does a Anna Hazare

There are many belief systems across the globe, but not all of them are good. The Khap panchayat in Indian villages follows one such custom, which has been killing young couples in the name of honour for years now. 

Actor Om Puri and producer-director Ajai Sinha (Ananda Film & Tele Communication Pvt Ltd.), who feel strongly about this issue, have come together to voice their thoughts through their movie Khap. "Someone has to take the first step to end this. I am not waiting for somebody to wake up one day and that is why I have stood up against it," says Om.

Ajai, who's the director of the film, says the primary motivation behind making this movie was not just success or monetary gain. "It's for awareness among the youth. I have made this movie to make our country wake up and notice that while we might just fuss over everyday life, there are still customs like Khap in villages that don't let people live their lives their way." The film has got no political support because the topic is sensitive and no politician wants to be associated with it. "It doesn't matter if anyone supports us or not," says Om. "We know that we have made the right movie. If Anna Hazare can stand alone, fight against corruption and make the nation realise the importance of it, I am sure we can do the same here. Even if we get support or not, the fight against the Khap panchayats from our side is on!" he signs off.
The movie releases tomorrow with a hope that it's the first step towards eradicating this inhuman custom. 

John Abraham gets Chitrangada Singh for his next

Goldie Behl is all set to bring the Desi Boyz jodi ofJohn Abraham and Chitrangada Singh together for his forthcoming film tentatively titled as I, Me Ishaan. The film has gone on floors yesterday. 

Debutant Kapil Sharma who was an assistant director of Goldie Behl is going to direct this film. Sharma assisted Goldie on Drona . I, Me Ishaanalso stars Raima Sen and Prachi Desai in lead roles.

It is also believed that the film will be co produced by John Abraham's home production JA Entertainment. Now do we see John getting close to another girl soon after his breakup with Bipasha!

Katrina Kaif beats Deepika Padukone, Kareena Kapoor

She talks about being the only actress in the Top 10 of the Zoom Supernova list

What do you attribute your enviable position in the industry to? 
Luck and being honest and sincere about work has worked for me and helped me reach where I am. You don't really know how your film is going to turn out, but you can give it your best shot and hope the audience loves it. This has been my approach right from the beginning and it's helped me a lot in my journey. All you can do is give the film your everything. I think what has also worked is that I have been able to relate to the characters I have played. Maybe, deep down the audience has connected to these roles and liked them.

Who do you consider your fan base? 
I would like to believe it transcends all ages and barriers. I look forward to meeting fans during promotions when I travel across the country. It's humbling to see their love and support. Also I look out for tips that some give me. Like if they don't like something I did or loved a particular role or scene, I try to keep that in mind as a reference point in the future. It's always nice to get feedback from your fans.

What kind of films excite you? 

I make an attempt to do different kinds of films. There's no such formula for guaranteed success. Like Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara worked because of sheer sincerity.

How important are your fans? 
I want to thank them for giving me so much love and acceptance, even with my flaws, be it my diction or anything else. They have stood by me and always believed in my work. I will keep doing work that won't ever let my fans down.

Ramdev's hot, I want to marry him: Rakhi Sawant

Rakhi Sawant was at her motormouth best in Delhi. And some brave guy apparently stole her sari! 

Meri sari chori ho gayi. Aap hi batao main kya karti?" That's what Rakhi Sawant asked the press at the launch of her upcoming reality show, Gajab Desh Ki Ajab Kahaaniyaan".

The event was slated to start at 3pm on Tuesday in Delhi, but got delayed by two hours. Only when a few mediapersons walked out that the event started. "Main bahut maafi chahti hoon ki thoda late ho gayi," Rakhi said, to which the press retorted, "Do ghante ho gaye. Yeh kya thoda late hai?" After a brief pause, Rakhi tried to placate them as she said, "Aap jaan hi lelo meri. I don't want to cry here, but you won't believe that this press conference got delayed because my sari got stolen. Mere saath yeh tragedy ho gayi. You might think this is a publicity gimmick, but trust me, this is what has happened." On being asked why she couldn't wear something else, she replied, "Aise kaise kuch bhi pehen ke aa jati? Why didn't you send me your shirt?" came her rejoinder. "You won't believe it, I even asked the channel representatives to let me attend the press conference in my gown. I didn't want to keep my friends waiting." But the press was in no mood to forgive her and continued to ask her a string of weird questions such as "Do you think Abhishek Awasthi got this done?" "Will you be getting an FIR lodged?" to annoy her.

Rakhi also rebuked Delhi designers for charging her about `1.5 lakh for the sari she finally wore, which she said they would have offered to any Bollywood A-lister without charging a single penny. "Just because Rakhi Sawant wanted a sari, they had to charge over a lakh. Isn't this bizarre? I mean, Delhi designers have been blackmailing me. Had Kareena or Katrina been in a similar situation, they would not have had to pay anything," Rakhi retorted.

Rakhi, who had recently declared her desire to tie the knot with Rahul Gandhi, shocked everyone by shifting her allegiance to Baba Ramdev. "Mujhe nahin lagta Soniaji ke saath meri daal galegi. So I wouldn't mind marrying Swami Ramdev. He has loads of money and drives expensive cars. If this wedding happens, you all will get to see a glamorous sadhvi. Wouldn't that be interesting?" Rakhi refused to address the yoga guru as 'Baba', because "Baba toh aap logon ke liye hain. Mere liye toh woh Swami hi hain. I hope he doesn't call me 'behen'. If Imagine TV plans to do another "Swayamvar" for me, they'll have to get Swami Ramdev on the show. In fact, I'll try my best to get him on it."

When asked why Ramdev, Rakhi explained, "I find him hot. He is sexy. Haven't you ever seen his flat tummy? Bas ek baar shaadi ki mala unpe daal doon, unki aankh fadakna bhi band ho jayegi. And I can vouch for the fact that the yoga DVD which we will release will be far more sensuous and hot than Shilpa's. It will find several takers." Rakhi may be planning to meet Baba... err, Swami Ramdev, but she doesn't think she can do much to help him in the current situation he is in. "I'm just a bit scared of the cops, who might bash me up just as they bashed his followers. Lekin agar pyaar kiya toh danda kya?"
But how come she isn't considering anyone from Bollywood for the next season of "Swayamvar", if that ever happens? "I'm not interested in Bollywood." Not even in Salman Khan?? "Unka toh bina shaadi kiye hi sab chal raha hai. He has several girlfriends. Mere liye Baba hi hain."

With such whacky replies, Rakhi ensured that her "media friends" were entertained and didn't harbour any hard feelings for her by the end. Rakhi ka jaadu chal gaya! 

Abhay Deol, Riteish Deshmukh, Arjun Rampal refuse to play gays

As we all know the sequel of Dostana has been delayed since quite some months but now we hear that the Dostana 2 has been shelved for some reasons. 

It is believed that director Tarun Mansukhanireworked on the script as producer Karan Joharwasn't much happy with his earlier draft. But according to sources the main leads Abhishek and John weren't impressed with the reworked script either.

Apart from that the makers are finding difficult to cast actors to play gay characters. It is believed that actors like Abhay Deol, Riteish Deshmukh, Dino Morea and Arjun Rampal were approached to play real gay characters opposite Abhishek and John. But all of them flatly denied.

Dostana 2 stars Katrina Kaif as the female lead. The director who was looking forward to start the film by end of this year has been advised to work on the script yet again. Hope this time things work out in his favour. 

Gulshan Grover, Govinda: Fleeing from fan frenzy

Gulshan Grover and Govinda, who have acted as hero-villain in dozens of super hit films, are currently shooting together in Pattaya, Bangkokafter a gap of many years. 

Post attending a party hosted in Pattaya by the film's producer Sumeet Saigal, Gulshan andGovinda were getting into the car to head to hotel when co-stars Mugdha Godse, Vimala Raman, Arya Babbar and others insisted that they join them for a stroll at the night market. Not to be a spoilsport GG and Govinda agreed and started to walk. Barely had they walked 100 yards when a huge group of tourists from India descended upon them with mobiles cameras, video cameras and screams of "Chi Chi bhaiya" and "Bad Man".

Some started to scream famous lines from the films of this hero and villain team. Seeing this even foreigners stepped out from pubs and restaurants to take pictures, while locals, out of curiosity, also joined. Soon the situation got out of hand and they had to bundle GG and Govinda into a tuktuk, the local rickshaw to get them to escape!

Kunal Khemu is a certified diver

Kunal Kemmu recently went for a short trip to theMaldives. 

The actor, who is an adrenalin junkie and is always ready to try out something new, took a three-day certified course in scuba diving so that he could become a professional diver. After taking the practical lessons the actor, who's a water baby, gave a couple of written exams and is now a certified diver.

Om Puri joins the PETA bandwagon

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA)) India, earned itself a new crusader.
Veteran actor Om Puri, who has appeared in films produced on three continents, fired a letter to Jayanthi Natarajan, the newly appointed Union Minister for Environment and Forests, asking her to do everything in her power to hasten the enactment of the new Animal Welfare Act, 2011. In the letter, Puri points out that the current laws which provide for fines and other penalties for cruelty to animals were written more than five decades ago and that now they are so weak that they have little deterrent effect.
"Considering that the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, was enacted 50 years ago, it is high time for India's animal welfare laws to get a much-needed 21st-century makeover," writes Puri. "I hope the government will put politics aside and give our animals the basic protections that they deserve by passing the Animal Welfare Act, 2011".
His most recent movie is West Is West by Andy De Emmony, and he has three films scheduled to open this year.

Jacqueline dislikes B'wood celebs on ramp

Actress Jacqueline Fernandez, who chose to be in the front row for designer Gaurav Gupta at the ongoing Synergy1 Delhi Couture Week (DCW), feels that Bollywood celebrities are better off sitting in the front row rather than walking the ramp. 

"We chose not to walk for the designer because we feel that fashion show is all about clothes and designer's creativity and it's better to let the garments do the talking rather than Bollywood celebrities stealing the limelight as they walk the ramp," said the Sri Lankan beauty, who was seen sporting Gaurav Gupta's grey net sari with single shoulder blouse. The designer presented a collection inspired by enchanted forest and showcased garments which had lots of pleats, drapes and ruffles. The silhouettes were a mix of sari inspired gowns and ghagaras in the hues of creme, pink, gold, copper, yellow, green and turquoise.

The fabrics were mostly net, chiffons, georgettes and tulles. "The collection was inspired by enchanted forest and I tried to create a fantasy world with surrealism depicting lot of femininity and elegance. I have presented a classic collection in modern look," said Gaurav. Also present in the front row was actor Shakti Kapoor's daughter Shradha Kapoor, who looked elegant in a black and red gown with neatly tied up hair. 

Mallika Sherawat endorses international brands

While everyone knows that Mallika Sherawat has acted in a Hollywood film, few know that she's now also endorsing international brands. 

Recently the actress shot for an international jewellery house that also makes jewellery for the royal family of Austria and Monaco. This is Mallika's first international campaign. Now that Mallika doesn't appear to be getting any offers from B-Town, it seems obvious the actress is trying to cling on to the international bandwagon any which way she can. Also, since there were hardly any takers for Mallika among Indian brands, guess this is Mallika's way of cocking a snook at us, eh? Mallika ka jawaab nahi!

Amy Winehouse to be buried today

The 27-year-old singer - who was found dead at her north London home on Saturday (23.07.11) - will be laid to rest in a private ceremony for her loved ones, a family spokesperson has confirmed. 

The representative refused to give details of the time or location for the service.

Jewish customs normally require a funeral to take place within 24 hours of death.

However, Amy's had to be delayed in order for post-mortem examinations to be carried out.

Her inquest was opened and immediately adjourned at London's St Pancras Coroner's Court today (25.07.11) in order to prevent further delays in the burial.

Assistant Deputy Coroner Suzanne Greenaway told the two-minute hearing: "I'm formally opening this inquest. I'm issuing interim certificates to allow Miss Winehouse's family to make arrangements for the funeral."

Sharon Duff, Coroner's Officer at St Pancras Coroner's Court, had earlier told the hearing: "I bring before you the death of Amy Jade Winehouse, aged 27, born on the 14 September 1983 in London.

"She was a divorced lady living at Camden Square, NW1. She was certified dead at her home by a paramedic and a doctor on July 23.

"She was a singer/songwriter at the time of her death and was identified by her family here at St Pancras this morning. A section 20 post mortem has been carried out and histology and toxicology taken to determine the cause of death.

"The scene was investigated by police and determined non-suspicious."

The case has now been adjourned until October 26. 

Kareena Kapoor chooses Akshay Kumar over Ajay Devgn

Kareena Kapoor has allotted dates for MilanLuthria's Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai sequel with Akshay Kumar, starting January 20. The dates spill over to February and March too. 

The actress admits she is keen to do the sequel because she has been in talks with producer Ekta Kapoor for a long time. "I loved the first film and I'm very keen to work with Milan Luthria," she had said earlier. Strange, given that Bebo has reportedly turned down Ajay Devgn's remake of the Telugu film Maryada Ramanna because according to sources, she is planning to marry Saif Ali Khanin February 2012.

The fact remains that the dates of the remake and the sequel were overlapping and the actress was forced to choose one film over the other. Meanwhile, Ajay has signed Sonakshi Sinha for his home production. A trade source confirms the development, saying, "The Sona-Ajay casting is a coup of sorts because it is the first time they will romance each other on screen."