‘Slumdog’ author Swarup does 30 media interviews in two days

Indian diplomat and author Vikas Swarup has done at least 30 interviews in just two days in Britain after the runaway success of Slumdog Millionaire, the film based on his novel.

“This is just crazy. I am completely overwhelmed. I know now exactly what it means to take part in a media circus,” Swarup, Indian Deputy High Commissioner to South Africa, told IANS Wednesday.

Since arriving in London, Swarup has been inundated with calls from around the world, especially after the movie swept four awards at the Golden Globe in the US this week.

The author of “Q and A”, which has been translated into 36 languages, has been interviewed by every major British newspaper, as well television and radio channel, including a large number of regional radio stations.

“It was supposed to have been a fairly easy-paced programme, but since the Golden Globe awards, the phone just hasn’t stopped ringing. I’m getting calls from all over the world with requests for interviews,” said Swarup.

Although flattered by the attention, the diplomat scotched one little rumour that has reportedly been doing the rounds in India.

“I’m not a dollar millionaire! Nowhere near it,” said Swarup.

“People have an exaggerated notion of things and tend to confuse the world of films with that of books,” he said.

“While the book has done well, I’m not exactly in the league of ["Harry Potter" author] J.K. Rowling, you know,” he added.

Akshay dedicates award to Aamir

Bollywood heartthrob Hrithik Roshan and Priyanka Chopra were adjudged for the Best Actor and Actress award at the Star Screen Award ceremony.


Hrithik bagged the award for his performance in Ashutosh Gowariker's Jodha Akbar, while Priyanka got it for Madhur Bhandarkar's Fashion.

The Best Director award was shared by Ashutosh Gowariker for Jodha Akbar and Neeraj Pandey for A Wednesday. Jodha Akbar also bagged the award for the Best Film of the year 2008.
Aishwarya Rai and Akshay Kumar were honoured with Nokia Popular Viewers' Choice awards for Singh is Kinng and Jodha Akbar respectively.

Akshay Kumar, however, left the viewers and organisers in disbelief by dedicating the award to Aamir Khan for his performance in Ghajini. When called upon the stage, Akshay, said he watched Ghajini and felt that Aamir deserved this honour and left the stage without collecting the trophy.

Tusshar Kapoor bagged Best Supporting Actor in the male category for Golmaal Returns and Sahana Goswami received the award in female category for Rock On. Farhan Akhtar was named as best debut male actor for Rock On and Asin for Ghajini.

A R Rahman, who recently bagged the prestigious golden Globe award in US for his original music in the forthcoming movie Slumdog Millionaire, bagged Best Background Score award for Jodha Akbar.

Apart from sharing the Best Director award, Neeraj Pandey also received the Best Story award for his debut film A Wednesday.

Priyanka Chopra was conspicuous by her absence at the ceremony while Hrithik and Aishwarya were present.

Indian music directors happy for Rahman

After the West gave its verdict on A R Rahman's music, it's the turn of Indian music directors to shower their praise and appreciation for Rahman.

Bollywood seems to be going gaga over Rahman's achievement. Music composers who have worked with Rahman are of the view that he was destined to win such an award sooner or later.

According to music director Anu Malik, "It's a moment of great pride for all of us. He has proved that India music directors are as good as any internationally acclaimed composer. He competed with other music directors around the world and proved his worth among them. I wish him all the best."

Anu Malik also added that Rahman's award was a glorious feat for Indian music. And that it would take us to a new platform in the international arena.

Veteran Music director Bappi Lahiri who rocked the Indian music scene in the 80s, seems to be captivated to the tunes of Rahman. He says that Rahman hasn't just let every Indian feel proud but he has brought a new energy and enthsiasm in the Bollywood.

"I am speechless. It's a celebration time for us. He has given us a moment of great pride. I am very happy that the west has finally recognized the worth of an Indian music director. I wish him all the good luck in future," says Lahiri.

Singer Sukhwinder Singh, who has sung the song Jai Ho in Slumdog Millionaire says that it's like dream come true.

"I was sure that one day he will prove his worth to the international audience. But the pleasant surprise for me is that I sang the song Jai Ho. I feel really lucky. I am extremely happy. I have always been a great admirer of his devotion for music and hard work to create original compositions," said Sukhwinder.

Rahman of the moment

AR Rahman probably has a cupboard full of awards the way some Bollywood names have cupboards full of skeletons. In both cases, it’s usually a case of ‘what’s the big deal about one more’.

But the Golden Globe puts him, literally, in the global league. At this point, looking back, which is the first award that really meant something to him? “I think the first big award that I treasured was the National Award for Roja. That was a great feeling. It was also very unexpected.”

This one surely wasn’t. How does the kick of getting a Golden Globe for Danny Boyle’s Slumdog compare with that years-old high of the National Award for Mani Ratnam’s Roja? “I think I feel a kind of sense of déjà vu. The whole thing. Because all those comments that came my way then – I am hearing all of them again. People are saying ‘Oh, the same kind of music has been in Hollywood for so long, and this film has come and re-energised the whole thing, it’s on a different path, it’s such a relief to hear a different kind of soundtrack...’ It feels as if the whole experience which came with the first award for Roja is being repeated, just at a different place.”

That experience moved him from the regional to the national stage in one definitive move, and now he’s been propelled firmly onto the global platform in a manner unprecedented for an Indian. No harm in such déjà vu moments at all, surely? “Yes...,” he laughs. “God is kind...”

God is kind to the deserving, some would say. Just before the Globe awards, Rahman said, ‘The more you expect, the more frustration comes’. On the other hand, he’s been fairly – and uncharacteristically – vocal about saying that he wants an Oscar for Slumdog’s music. Isn’t that contradictory? “See, the film was just a heartbeat away from getting the Golden Globe. At the same time, we weren’t very certain about it actually happening. So instead of lusting over it, we said, okay, let’s just be cool about the whole thing, if we don’t get it, that’s okay... But after I said that this award doesn’t mean very much for me, but for India, it means a big deal, so I want to win it for India – after I said that, I was terrified every night. What if I don’t get it? I’ll be letting so many people down. This is the first award ever that I have been so terrified about not getting. That’s because seeing the disappointment of so many people would have been tough – that way, getting it was great. When I said to the audience here also, that this is for the one billion people of India – the people just loved it.”

The superlatives are flying thick and fast – Indian Mozart, Genius, Danny saying it is one of the high points of his career to have worked with Rahman (“He did? So sweet!”). Unlike a SRK, who carries his compliments and adjectives with a swagger, he generally ducks them, is rarely seen preening while counting the feathers in his hat. But how does it really feel inside? “I think I feel much lighter when I don’t take these things very seriously, personally, when I can just behave naturally. I think it’s very difficult to progress when there is too much luggage on your head, metaphorically speaking. I feel much better and spiritual when I am away from that, definitely, and so I consciously choose that path of life.” So his personal spirituality is an extension of his work, right? “Very true.” Then, after a quiet moment, he continues, “The most beautiful thing is that after you work really hard, and it comes out, and then it changes – it becomes a part of people’s lives, and people own it. You don’t own it anymore, they own it. That’s the most beautiful thing. Awards and all are definitely secondary. However, in this particular case, someone from India getting an award like this for the first time, it’s important because I think it serves to raise the spirits of people, of all creative people, to tell them that that there is a way, and if we work hard, we will make it, we can make it – that’s the great thing. And I am glad that I was like an instrument for that.”

Is India a fad, the flavour of the season, or is it here to stay? “India is so rich in culture, it has so much spirituality in it, it has so many hidden qualities to it, it has to come out one way or another. If people are incompetent to show it, somebody else who is competent does it.”

Can we read between the lines here – he’s saying that internally, we haven’t developed that sort of competence in cinema? It’s been said that this was a film that an Indian director should have made long back, but none could, till Danny came along and made it. He then obviously agrees with that line of thought. “Absolutely, ya. In my opinion, there’s too much that we try to do... if you aim at too many things, you fail. You aim at one thing, it works. You need to be honest with one film and go with your passion. Here, when we do a film, we are saying I want to satisfy the South Indian audience, I want to satisfy the Bihari audience, I want to satisfy the Punjabi audience – and I also want to win an award at Cannes! Which is just not possible, because the sensibilities are different. Either you raise this taste to that level – or you do films for, you know, the audiences, be proud of the stuff which we have been doing. Nothing wrong in doing that either.”

Sonali gets back on Annu Malek

Annu Malek must know by now that whenever he is away everybody has a ball — at his expense. Kailash Kher brought along a cut out of Annu Malek and mimicked his comments.

Javed Akhtar added his own brand of humor to the proceedings. Even Hussain and Chang did not miss the opportunity to have fun at his expense. Sonu Niigam mimicked him. But Sonali got the once in a lifetime chance to do what she always wanted to do… put a tape across Annu Malek’s mouth! So what if she did it to his cut out. Chang worried about what Annu would do to them when he watches the episode, said: “He will chew us alive.” “We’ll put the tape across his mouth then, and he will not be able to chew us.” added Hussain. He will not chew them – he will definitely kill them.

Stay tuned to this episode, this friday, January 16 at 9.00 pm only on Sony Entertainment Television.

A.R Rahman bags Globe, makes us proud!

A.R Rahman is the first Indian to win the Golden Globe Award. The music baadshah swept the award for best orginal Music Score for the flick “Slumdog Millionaire”.

Danny Boyle, director of Slumdog says, “Golden Globes, or the GGs as we very affectionately refer to them - your mad, pulsating affection for our film is much appreciated. Really, deeply appreciated.”

Rahman says, “I see it as an honor for India, not just for me. More to come, hopefully. I’ve my fingers crossed. When a film and my music get acceptance, it’s the equivalent of an Oscar for me. For the people of India to get an Oscar is a big thing. So for their sake more than mine I hope my song Jai ho and my music score in Slumdog Millionaire win the Oscar.”

Congratulations Rahman, may you win the Oscar too

SRK proud to represent Slumdog Millionaire

SRK was present at the prestigious Golden Globe Awards and handed over the coveted trophy to winner Slumdog Millionaire amidst much pomp and show.

SRK was proud to represent Slumdog and said, I am very honored and at the same time I accept with full humility that I have not been called because of who I am, it is because Indian cinema is being looked upon with importance by the Western world now.

I just happen to be one of the faces of Bollywood and so they chose me. I am presenting the movie Slumdog Millionaire. First I was giving away an award but now I am presenting this film.”

Congratulation’s Slumdog Millionaire and Co. for winning the Globes.:)

Kareena Kapoor: Too big for her boots?

Kareena Kapoor has refused to perform with Katrina Kaif, Priyanka Chopra, Deepika Padukone and Bipasha Basu at an awards function to be held today. The organisers were taken by surprise when they learnt that Kareena had opted out of the show at the last minute, they have been running the promos of the show with Kareena and the other four actresses.

Kareena informed the organizers about her decision last minute. The act in question was the finale of the awards ceremony. Our source said, "The organisers had planned back to back performances with Kareena, Katrina, Priyanka, Deepika and Bipasha. Kareena, who has done many more films than the other four who are performing in the finale did not want to be clubbed with them. She wants to do bigger, better and exclusive stuff."

Our source added, "As a policy Kareena has decided not to perform at weddings and New Year bashes and she had made this public too. As for this particular function, she was in two minds for some time but later decided to stick to her decision."

Director of the show, Mohammed Morani of Cineyug told us, "Kareena is out from the function. Her name will have to be pulled out from the TV promos. We will do that soon."

Another news doing the rounds is that Bebo, who is fast turning into an advertisers' delight, has declined to endorse an international cosmetic brand because her hands are full. "The international brand is a trademark to reckon with. Any other actress in Kareena's place would have jumped at it," said a source who refused to reveal the name of the brand.

"Kareena is endorsing brands like Anne French, Globus, Lux, Boroplus, Vivel and Kurkure and clients are very happy with her. Their product sales have shown a rise so it is obvious that they want Kareena to continue to endorse their products," added the source.

Shah Rukh Khan stole show at Golden Globes

All the Hollywood A-listers where present at the 66th Golden Globe award ceremony, and our dear Rahman did us proud by bagging the coveted Globe, but two of our desi superstars – Shah Rukh Khan and Anil Kapoor – managed to steal part of the limelight, too!

Where the rest of Hollywood sat and clapped their hands in the most elegant sort of way, our Anil Kapoor who was excited for obvious reasons, gave a standing ovation to Danny Boyle. And was just short of doing that Lakhan type jig. Adding to the masti was Shah Rukh Khan - flashing his dimples, throwing kisses at the audience... and opting to do the "pelvic Indian dance".

They were our heroes that evening, like they are every other evening, but we are happy they presented to the world what our Indian cinema and personalities are all about - cheer, fun, charisma...

Katrina Kaif At A Spa Launch

Katrina Kaif recently launched a spa at Lokhandwala. Dressed in aqua blue dress she sure made her presence felt. The fashion police though feels that her dress was rather odd and seemed like she recycled an old party dress and transformed it into a salwar kameez. She paired it with a satin churidar and a small scarf type dupatta. I feel she is pretty enough to carry anything that looks decent. What do you think?

Kaminay Gets Shahid Priyanka To Smooch

Priyanka’s affair with Harman Baweja was never as official as her alleged break-up. But we wouldn’t cannot help but wonder at the timing the rumors of Shahid Kapoor being ‘too-friendly’ with Priyanka and the news of her break up - just about running parallel.

Perhaps what is happening to Harman is what Shahid has already experienced - his girl dumping him because she fell in love with her co-star.

Priyanka has been very choosy about her on-screen kiss. She refused to kiss on screen all through these years. One expected her to kiss Harman Baweja in his debut Love Story 2050 but she refused. She shared quite an intimate love making scene with Arjan Bajwa and Arbaaz Khan in Fashion but even then she refused to kiss them. Finally Priyanka has given in - she has had an intimate kissing scene with Shahid in Kaminey.

A source close to Vishal Bhardwaj, the director reveals, “It’s true that Priyanka and Shahid have kissed in the film. However it is too early to divulge any details about that.”

Does that suggest that Priyanka and Shahid share a special bond?

Kareena Kapoor and Shahid Kapoor have long split and the producers of the film Milenge Milenge who wanted to cash in on the couple’s popularity post Fida and China Town days are really worried these days.

The couple had finished shooting for the film just after the break up. Due to some reasons the film’s post production processes took a long while. Now that everything is done, the couple is unavailable for the dubbing.

Apparently Shahid and Kareena have finished just a quarter of their dubbing job and there is still a lot to do. But both of them are so busy with their schedules that they are not able to spare sometime off to finish the dubbing.

The producers are worried that the film might not do well because film has both Bebo and Shahid in their older avatars of Fida days. Shahid now looks more matured and Kareena has lost oodles of weight. The audience might not like watching them in their old look.

Will the film flop or will people look forward to it. What do you think about this!

Chandni Chowk To China Premiers Across The World

Akshay Kumar and Deepika Padukone are busy walking the red carpets across the world as their forthcoming film Chandni Chowk to China is premiered in all the major cities in the world i.e. London, Toronto and New York. Check out how they looked at the premiere parties -

Aamir’s Taare Zameen Par out from the Oscars’ race

Amir khan pretty much sure that his directed venture ‘Taare Zameen Par’ would be nominated for the Oscar Awards but this could not happen making the actor disappointed altogether. The legendary musician A R Rahman emerged as India’s pride after winning the music award for Slumdog Millionaire at Golden Globe but Aamir could not be the lucky for the 81^st Academy.

The much acclaimed film, ‘Taare Zameen Par’ could not manage to be nominated for the nine films short-listed in the foreign language category. The nine films, selected from among the 65, which had originally qualified, will now go for the next round of voting. Selection committees in New York and Los Angeles will then pick five nominees from among them. The winner will be announced on 22^nd February this year at the awards night.

The news certainly has appeared as a big disappointment to the millions of film’s fans and the entertainment industry because all were pretty sure that the movie about a boy and his teacher would be selected for the Oscars.

"I don't yell from the top of my voice about being the lead" - Emraan Hashmi

For Emraan Hashmi, playing an integral character in a film is the most important thing to do regardless of the screen space he gets. So whether it is a small but critical role in Kalyug or an obsessive lover with villainous shades in Murder or one of the three key characters in Raaz - The Mystery Continues, he approaches them with all the honesty and integrity.

Ask him if he is the main lead in the film or Adhyayan Suman and he goes on to reply, "I don't really get into topics like these because gone are the days when there was the concept of a hero or a main lead. I pick up a film when I am very convinced about a role because it's the depth in the character that matters most. If I like it, I go ahead and do it. I don't get into matters where I have to worry about whether the person other than me in the film has a meatier role."

Stating examples about how he has maintained this strategy from the very beginning of his career that saw him playing second lead to Aftab Shivdasani in Footpath, he goes on to add, "If I had thought on those lines, would I have done Murder considering it was supposed to be Mallika's film? When I do a film, I move ahead and let the audience decide whose film it was. I don't yell from the top of my voice that 'This is MY film'. The same holds good for Raaz - The Mystery Continues as well."

Some actors choose to do that though. They want the world to know that they have the most important part to play in a film. "Other actors may have different work priorities, I have my own. I work for the betterment of the character; the way the director wants me to play it. At the end of the day, a film is much bigger than the actor. And by the way, whenever I have a special appearance in the film, I haven't hidden it. There is no point being dishonest to your audience. In case of Kalyug, I had told people that I had a special appearance and it was basically a Kunal (Khemu) film", remembers Emraan Hashmi.

Which means he has a full fledged role in Raaz - The Mystery Continues even though all the romance seems to be reserved for Kangna and Adhyayan Suman? "Absolutely. I have a full blown character to enact in Raaz -TMC. As for who romances whom in the film, then well, watch the film", he winks before signing off.

"Shooting at The Great Wall of China was the highlight of CC2C" - Rohan Sippy

While Chandni Chowk To China is seeing multiple premieres across the continent, producer Rohan Sippy is holding fort in Mumbai and getting plans in place for the paid previews of the film along with the last minute detailing. Getting all set to release his biggest film till date, Rohan fondly remembers his shooting stint at 'The Great Wall of China' and acknowledges that it was his most cherished moment of the shoot.

"While the whole journey of Chandni Chowk To China was extraordinary, for me personally the highlight of the film was to shoot on 'The Great Wall Of China'. We shot for only 8-9 days but each of these days has been memorable. We used to walk as many as 600 steps every morning and even though it used to tire us out, it was always a phenomenal moment to be standing up there. I used to look around me and pinch myself that I was actually standing at one of the world's greatest monument", Rohan says in a nostalgic tone.

He admits though that while on paper things looked quite rosy, it was a completely different challenge to bring scenes on screen. "Very few films have got a chance to shoot at 'The Great Wall of China' and I was the privileged lot. Still, it is quite amazing that we actually managed to pull it off, especially a couple of action sequences on the location. We had to take the equipment all the way up and then down on a daily basis and we were not sure if we would be able to do that. This is where our line producer and local production unit came handy. They did a great job in helping us out", he remembers.



Chandni Chowk To China is the first film to have been shot at this location. "As far as my understanding goes, except for Chinese productions, no other film has been allowed permission to shoot at 'The Great Wall of China'. Ours is the first international film that has been allowed to do so."

After two long years that went into the making of the film, right from the conceptualization phase, Rohan is happy that all the hard work is now ready to be unveiled to the audience.

"I remember going to a recce to China way back in November 2006", says Rohan, "I met with the action director then and started all the ground work because action is such an integral part of the film. There are so many factors involved in a huge international production like this and we had to go through a lot of preparations. It was not just about the logistics but also bringing in good human resources. We had to get a lot of good people in place, set up various departments in production, the works. There was so much planning involved in this two year long project. Now it's time to see the results unfold."

DDLJ's 9th print in 13 years!

The first time teaming up of Aditya Chopra and Shah Rukh Khan, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, is running in its 13th year at Maratha Mandir cinema in Bombay.

The film entered its 679th week in Bombay on 17th October 2008, which means that it recently entered its 14th year in Bombay. But since it was released at Maratha Mandir a few weeks after its premiere release, it is in its 13th year at Maratha Mandir. And in these 13 years, eight prints of the film have been changed. The film is being screened with the ninth print currently. Of course, it goes without saying that the film yields a share every week even now!

Well, that must be another addition to the innumerable records that DDLJ already has.

Dilip Kumar, SRK, now Abhay

Decades ago, thespian Dilip Kumar enacted the role of DEVDAS. Later, SRK interpreted it his way. Now Abhay Deol is portraying the modern-day Devdas in DEV D. Comparisons with Dilip-saab and SRK are inevitable.

"That's not new for me," Abhay tells me, "Initially, I was compared with my cousins [brothers Sunny and Bobby Deol]. Now it's Dilip-saab and SRK. I remember watching Dilip-saab's DEVDAS as a kid, but SRK's DEVDAS is still fresh in my mind. I really don't know where I stand vis-à-vis the comparisons, but when I watch my work in DEV D, it makes me happy... Also, for a change, the media isn't comparing me with my brothers."

The Devdas in DEV D not only hits the bottle, he takes to drugs as well. Will the innumerable fans of this classic digest this fact? "DEV D is the present-day version and in today's times, not just alcohol, people do drugs as well. Look, we haven't strayed from the main plot, except that we've made it contemporary. And if you're talking of current times, you need to update the script to suit the current requirements," Abhay reasons.

This is Abhay's first film with Anurag Kashyap. "We've been friends for a long time. We were keen to work with each other and when he offered this film, I took it up instantaneously. Anurag is someone I truly respect as a film-maker. It was an enriching experience," he says.

Abhay's ready to broaden his horizons. He's turned producer [his company is called Forbidden Films] and his first film is titled JUNCTION. "It's directed by Atul Sabharwal. He's extremely talented. I saw his short film and was floored completely. We're putting the cast in order and hopefully, we should start filming by the end of this year," Abhay reveals.

Ghajini Crosses DDLJ In Two Weeks

Ghajini has become the third biggest earner of hindi cinema and has crossed the business of legendary all time hit Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge in two weeks flat. It is also the biggest earner of the multiplex era as it easily beats Dhoom 2.

ALL TIME EARNERS (Distributor Shares)

1. Gadar - 58 cr Approx

2. Hum Aapke Hain Kaun - 54 crore Approx

3. Ghajini - 50-51 crore (2 Weeks)

4. Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge - 50 crore Approx

5. Dhoom 2 - 44.87 crore

6. Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi - 40-41 crore (4 Weeks)

7. Krissh - 40.42 crore

8. Om Shanti Om - 40.15 crore

9. Raja Hindustani - 38 crore Approx

10. Welcome - 36.69 crore

´Noorie´ Poonam Dhillon Is Back With Yash Chopra´s New Film!

The still great looking Poonam Dhillon will make a comeback of sorts with Yash Chopra's new film, starring Rani Mukerji and Shahid Kapoor. The pretty actress has been signed to play Shahid's mother in the film.It may be recalled that Poonam made her real debut with Amitabh Bachchan's 'Trishul' (directed by Yash Chopra) and the pinnacle of her career was as 'Noorie', for the same banner that she is making a comeback with, Yash Raj Films.Poonam has given up acting for the last few years but was seen playing Sreedevi's understanding friend (guest appearance) in Boney Kapoor's 'Judaai'.

Meanwhile, Poonam recently completed a film in Tamil. But as far as the Hindi screen is concerned, Yash Chopra's film, being directed by Anurag Singh, will be her comeback film after she stop­ped facing the cameras post 'Judaai'.

Akshay Kumar In Patiala House

Akshay Kumar looks set to repeat his Singh Is Kinng act again as he will be the male lead in the big budget venture Patiala House. The film will be shot in Punjab later this year and the only details available yet is that the film is about a huge joint family of sardars headed by Dara Singh. The film is expected to be completed in one schedule.

The film is being produced by the Chandni Chowk To China team of Nikhil Advani and Mukesh Talreja. Other details are to be finalised.

´Chandni Chowk To China´ :Akshay Welcomes Shahenshah Bachchan At London´s West End Premiere

Bollywood bling and Chinese charm descended upon the Red Carpet at Empire Leicester Square, London last night, as Emperor of Indian cinema, Akshay Kumar, and his dazzling co-stars, Deepika Padukone and Roger Yuan, alongside Director, Nikhil Advani, stirred fan and media frenzy alike at the European Premiere of Warner Bros. Pictures’ 'Chandni Chowk to China'. Adding to the movie mania, Shahenshah of Bollywood, Amitabh Bachchan, joined Akshay on the Red Carpet, wowing the crowds as Bollywood nobility reigned over London’s West End.The Red Carpet hosted an impressive guest list of international VIP’s and celebrities, before the stars of the film took centre stage before the full house, to welcome guests and introduce the film. Adding to the glamour and excitement of the evening, Bollywood veteran, Amitabh Bachchan, also addressed the audience and expressed gratitude for his personal invitation from Akshay Kumar, to join him at the event.

He said, “I have always enjoyed watching films here in London. I was on a personal visit here, when Akshay Kumar called me at 5am and invited me to watch the movie with him, and I kindly accepted. It is always a pleasure seeing any Akshay Kumar movie. I have watched him grow up, as a person, as well as an actor. I have witnessed his growth from an actor in a supporting role, standing in the background and unnoticed, to seeing him moving to the front and becoming one of the biggest actors today, because of his honesty, hard work and dedication. I’m sure we will all enjoy the movie immensely.”

The star-studded event was followed by an after-party at exclusive eaterie and celebrity hang out, Mint Leaf, Haymarket, indulging guests with a bespoke menu of 'Chandni Chowk to China' cocktails and canapés. The party provided the perfect close to a hectic international premiere schedule that has seen the stars create 'Chandni Chowk to China' frenzy as they descended upon Toronto, New York, LA and finally London, before the premiere in Mumbai.

Marking Warner Bros. Pictures’ first Bollywood production, 'Chandni Chowk to China' follows one man’s journey from simple cook to kung fu fighter. 'Chandni Chowk to China' is the first-ever Bollywood Kung Fu comedy, and fuses the enriched cultures of Asia’s biggest superpowers, China and India. The film takes you on an unforgettable journey through the historic alleys of Chandni Chowk to the grandeur of the Great Wall of China with bouts of laughter, breathtaking action, spectacular locations and heart-stirring emotions along the way.

Directed by Nikhil Advani ('Kal Ho Na Ho') and starring international superstar and 'Kinng' of Bollywood, Akshay Kumar, with Deepika Padukone playing his romantic interest in the film, Chandni Chowk To China also stars Bollywood veteran Mithun Chakraborty and international stars Gordon Liu ('Kill Bill'- Volume One and Two) and Roger Yuan ('Batman Begins', 'Bulletproof Monk', 'Lethal Weapon 4').

The film parallels Akshay Kumar’s own journey to Bollywood fame – Kumar worked in a restaurant as a cook before pursuing his passion for martial arts. Kung Fu lovers can also “eat” their heart out with stunts from veteran stunt director Huen Chiu Ku, whose credits include Oscar winner 'Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon', 'The Matrix' (2 and 3), 'The Forbidden Kingdom', 'Lethal Weapon 4' and 'The Mummy'.

The film revolves around Sidhu (Akshay Kumar), a simple cook from Chandni Chowk who longs to escape his dreary existence and looks for shortcuts with astrologers, tarot readers and mystical magicians, believing in anything and everything except himself. His epic heroic journey begins when two strangers from China claim him to be a reincarnation of a war hero from the past and enlist him to come back with them to their village in China.

Sidhu dreams of the women, wine and princely existence that await him in foreign lands, thanks to a devious translator, a conman by the name of Chopstick (Ranvir Shorey). Little does he know that he is being taken to the promised land to take on the vicious smuggler Hojo (Gordon Liu) and help his new friends reclaim their village. So, blissfully Sidhu sets forth to China with Chopstick joining him as translator. Along his exciting and adventurous journey he meets Sakhi (Deepika Padukone), a model who has embarked on her own adventure to pay homage to the land of her birth, her dead father and twin. Deepika Padukone, better known for her dazzling performance in Om Shanti Om, portrays a dual role as Suzy, Sakhi’s long-lost twin.

'Chandni Chowk to China' was shot at locations including The Great Wall of China and the Forbidden City, as well as in Thailand and India. The film is set to push more than the boundaries of cinema by not only highlighting the influence of Indian culture around the globe but by fusing two of the world’s most enriched cultures on one cinematic canvas. With a worldwide audience for Bollywood reaching over 3 billion fans worldwide, 'Chandni Chowk To China' is set to win over filmgoers both young and old, cineastes and critics alike, with its winning combination of the very best that international cinema has to offer.

‘Chandni Chowk to China’, Warner Bros. Pictures’ first Indian production, is all set to release in cinemas worldwide on 16th January 2009.

Kareena in confession mode!

She had spent it and some more at Lilavati where Saif Ali Khan, yes — the love of her life, ended up after sinfully and unwisely indulging in plum pudding and chaat the previous night. But New Year was different for Kareena Kapoor. Bollywood’s most written about jodi is currently in the French Alps; they’re doing their thing, just happy being themselves, by themselves. I met them Sunday evening at his residence-cum-office in Bandra hours before they took a late night flight out. Saif, who got discharged from hospital that morning, still seemed unwell and sorry for himself. But Kareena, fresh from a shower, the luscious body gleaming in early winter twilight, looked a million. I made a snap decision. Ignoring him, I turned to her.

It’s a busy time for her. She’s doing three films currently: Raju Hirani’s 3 Idiots with Aamir Khan; Karan Johar’s untitled film with Saif himself; and, Main Aur Mrs Khanna with Salman Khan. The couple was in Philadelphia shooting for a month. Now, this break. When do you stop acting and start being real together, I asked. Isn’t there a fine line between the two? An unfair question, actually, because this is the first time Kareena and Saif are being romantically paired. “People say our pairing didn’t work in Tashan, but that’s not true, I was paired with Akshay... not Saif,” she replied defensively. “Even in Omkara, which is the other film we did, he was with Konkona and I with Ajay. My only time with Saif on screen was in Kargil where I did a small role for J P Dutta.”

But, yes, it was sometimes difficult doing Karan’s film. Especially highly emotional scenes, she crying, he acting hurt. Not for her, though. “I’m the switch on-switch off kind,” she admitted, “as an actress, it’s easy for me. But Saif is emotional. Here’s the woman he loves, but now he’s also working with her. He’s jumpy, he has a lot of nervous energy, but he won’t agree, though I got that vibe... I know what he is deep down.” I asked if the familiarity of their relationship robbed her of the challenge and intimacy of the moment. “No, it’s more fun,” said Kareena.

“There’s double pressure. And that buzz and excitement, that’s there. Saif is a most watchable actor even when I’m not giving a shot with him. I used to look upto him much before we got into a relationship. He’s got a spontaneity that I like.”

But she’s also acting with some of Bollywood’s other Khans, so where does Saif compare with them? “With Aamir, I’ve just done a small stint, and he’s absolutely a dream. I’m lucky. Whatever he does, is something not seen before. It excites me to learn from him. Actors pick up by observing great co-stars.” What did she pick up from Saif, then? “The chemistry,” Kareena promptly replied. “But the journey is still on, I’m hoping to learn more while we shoot. Personally, he taught me how to balance work and personal life. He does it so well. But all the Khans are amazingly different. That’s why they’re the Khans! Salman is Salman... the coolest actor ever. But Saif is the original rockstar!” Who’s the most fun to be with? “Saif, because it’s a personal equation,” she smiled. “But my best co-star is Akshay Kumar.”

Her next big film, Kambakht Ishq, is with Akshay. “I love Akshay to a point where Saif gets jealous. He says, ‘You’re always praising Akshay!’” Kareena laughed. “But in LA, on the sets of Kambakht Ishq, Saif paid me a sweet compliment by saying Akshay and I look great together.” She’s excited about the film. “I have a good role, it’s got all the Hollywood stars...” she paused, “and there’s Stallone!” She talked about Hollywood’s macho man. “He’s down-to-earth, he came without a make-up man, without a valet, he drove over himself and stepped out of the car carrying a basket of food and water. Look at us!

How spoiled we are. Saif actually has a little angrez attitude... but that I like!” Considering Bollywood’s actors are into their bodies, I asked Kareena about Stallone’s. “It’s to die for,” she drooled. “So amazing at his age, like a rock, not an ounce of fat. He’s truly sexy. It’s great to have him in a Hindi film... this is a proud moment for Bollywood.” Yeah, but who in Hindi films
compared to Stallone, bodywise? “Tough to say,” she pouted.

“There’s Salman, but now Aamir and Shah Rukh have great bodies too.” What about Saif, wasn’t he into six-packs? “No,” she said, “but he’s got the best smile in Bollywood.”

Let bygones be bygone: Looks like that infamous spat a few months ago has been eclipsed by a wave of nostalgia. Aamir Khan was there to launch Bachchanalia, a second biography written on the living legend Amitabh Bachchan.

Mumbai, Jan 4 (IANS) Amitabh Bachchan and Aamir Khan may have a mutual admiration society and both may bond with each other superbly, but as a child the 'Ghajini' star never thought that Big B would make it to the top.

Aamir, who is riding on the success of his latest film 'Ghajini,' made this disclosure at the unveiling of the latest book on the megastar titled 'Bachchanalia' here Saturday evening.

Aamir said that since he was born into a family of filmmakers, talks at home were mostly about films and film stars of those days.

'So, we kids at home would also discuss films and even our housemaids would put in their 'knowledgeable' remarks,' he said.

He recalled that in 1970 Filmfare magazine had devoted an entire page on those who were struggling to make it big in films and had their photographs.

'We all huddled over it, and from their looks in the photographs, we tried to predict who could make the grade in films and who would not. While pouring over the photographs, when we came to the one with an emaciated face, we kids and our housemaids had a hearty laugh and I mocked at the photograph, saying 'Inko dekho. Ye bhi star banana chahata hai!' (Look at him. He also wants to be a star!),' Aamir said and continued coyly: 'And that unlikely hopeful was Mr. Bachchan.'

His revelation evoked a roar of laughter from the gathering. Amitabh, who was sitting besides his wife Jaya, son Abhishek, daughter-in-law Aishwarya Rai and Samajwadi Party leader Amar Singh, laughed the loudest.

Aamir said that Amitabh could reach the superstardom by dint of his sheer talent alone and he deserved every bit of his success.

'In the film industry today, there are a number of success stories, but most of them are fake. We are yet to see anybody in the industry scaling the height as Mr. Bachchan has done on the strength of his talent alone. Perhaps, nobody will,' he said.

'Bachchanalia', the pictorial book, with accompanying text, covers the almost four- decade-long journey of Big B as an actor. Written by journalist Bhawna Somaiya, the book has been published by Osian. It was released at Tata Theatre in the National Centre for Performing Arts (NCPA) in south Mumbai.

My hands are full - Priyan

Noted filmmaker Priyadarshan has had a great 2008. His off-beat Tamil film Kanchivaram has won critical acclaim and will be screened at the prestigious Palm Springs International
Film Society to be held from January 6 — 19, 2009
Noted filmmaker Priyadarshan has had a great 2008. His off-beat Tamil film Kanchivaram has won critical acclaim and will be screened at theprestigious Palm Springs International Film Society to be held from January 6 — 19, 2009.

Considered to be the most glamorous event of the year in the valley, the Palm Springs International Film Festival 2009 awards function is expected to draw film stars, filmmakers, industry professionals and film fans from all over the world. And this year, Priyadarshan will be there to deliver a short speech on his film.

Says Malayalam superstar Mohanlal, “I have done the maximum number of films (36) with Priyan. Today, he is a big name in Bollywood because he has been able to adapt himself and cater to the taste of the Hindi audiences.”

This year will witness Priyadarshan’s acid test in Bollywood. “I will be creating a record of sorts in Bollywood with four releases this year —Billoo Barber in February, Bhum Bhum Bhole in April, De Dhana Dhan for Diwali and Malamaal Weekly-2 for Christmas,” he says. His 75th film in his career spanning 25 years, Billoo Barber, produced by Shah Rukh Khan’s Red Chillies, will be released on February 13. The film is a remake of Sreenivasan’s Katha Parayumbol in Malayalam which was remade as Kuselan by P Vasu in Tamil.

Ask him whether it will work in Hindi after the failure of the Tamil version and Priyadarshan shoots back, “Billoo Barber will be closer to the original version which had a lot more human sentiments and in which the focus was on the life and times of the barber character. SRK is just the icing on the cake and I’m sure it will work.”
In April, he has his pet project Bhum Bhum Bhole coming up for release. Says the director, who is making his first serious film in Hindi, “It is an Indianised adaptation of the Iranian director Majid Majidi’s off-beat Children of Heaven. Actually, I have Indianised the film which is set in Assam, and I have woven in the ULFA angle to give it a local flavour, though the film tells the story of two kids. Darsheel Safary is the protagonist of the film.”
For Diwali, Priyadarshan has lined up De Dhana Dhan, a multi- starrer with the hit pair of Akshay Kumar and Katrina Kaif apart from Sunil Shetty, Paresh Rawal and Sameera Reddy. Says the director, “It is a typical slapstick comedy, a roller coaster fun ride. If you sneeze, you will lose track of this never a dull moment comedy caper.”

Priyadarshan recently started the movie by shooting the climax of the film on a set depicting the 28th floor of a hotel going underwater.

The artistes involved fell sick after shooting in water for nearly two weeks. It is said to be the most expensive climax in Indian cinema. And in May, he will start shooting the sequel Malamaal Weekly-2, with the original star cast of Paresh Rawal and Reema Sen along with two other new stars.

Priyadarshan concludes by saying, “My hands are full, but Mohanlal wants me to make a film with him, which will be written by the noted Malayalam writer M T Vasudevan Nair. I wish I could do it.”

Aamir wants to remake Forrest Gump

If things go Aamir Khan's way, his fans might have an opportunity to see him remake the Hollywood blockbuster Forrest Gump.

The movie has impressed Aamir so much that on being asked which film he would choose to do as a Hindi remake after Ghajini, he says, "It's Tom Hank's Forrest Gump. I have seen this film. It's a wonderful movie. Tom Hanks has done a fantastic job. If I get an opportunity to do a remake, it has to be Forrest Gump."

Forrest Gump is the story of a man with a low IQ. He has accomplished great things in his life and been present during significant historical events. But despite all that he has achieved, his one true love eludes him. The film is a 1994 comedy-drama. It is based on the 1986 novel by Winston Groom. According to an estimate, the film turned out to be a huge commercial success, earning US$677 million worldwide. It became the top grossing film in North America released that year. The film won six Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Visual Effects, Best Director, (Robert Zemeckis), and Best Actor (Tom Hanks).

Every bit of the film is shot with so much of precision that that Mr. Perfectionist Aamir Khan can't think of any other film for a perfect remake. Talking about the aspects of remakes, he feels that every film doesn't qualify for a good remake.

His currently running movie Ghajini is also a remake of the Tamil film of the same name and Aamir says that the concept of 15 minutes of memory loss impressed him very much. "This concept has not been used in any Bollywood film so far. So It impressed me very much and that's why I thought of working in it. From my point of view Forrest Gump is also a very good film for a Hindi-remake."

I hope to play 'boy' roles till I'm 40: Shahid Kapur

Shahid Kapur is doing Kaminay with Vishal Bharadwaj, another movie with Ken Ghosh and his first venture with Yashraj Films. The actor hopes he can continue playing boyish roles until he is 40. But what he's looking forward to most right now is being directed by dad Pankaj Kapur. Here he is on his upcoming flicks, Kareena Kapoor, Sania Mirza and more in an interview. You're going to be directed by your dad? That's right. We're looking at starting very soon. I've pushed him for years to take this plunge as a director. He has all these lovely scripts lying around that only his family knows about. I really wanted him to direct me... He has finally come up with something he thinks will do justice to both of us. I'm very excited about working with dad. Did the irony of your break-up with Kareena and the success of Jab We Met strike you? It's too glaring for me not to notice it. But that's life for you. I've always accepted what life gives you. I think what defines my life is not what happens to me but how I deal with it. Do questions on Kareena make you uncomfortable? No. It's been a year now. The pain has receded. I know that as an actor I'm not allowed to have complete privacy even if I wanted to. I try to keep my personal life to myself. I want to stay connected with the person I am. Sometimes in our world we're pulled into an illusory state. I'll do as much as possible to uphold my privacy. Is Sania Mirza a part of your private space? I don't like talking about her. But we do know each other and we're friends. A lot of people have been speculating about my personal life. And I've always said I'm a normal person. If I'm in a relationship, I won't be sitting alone. I'll go out with the person I'm in a relationship with. So people will know if something is on. Since you're seen with Sania, can one conclude you're seeing her? I go out with a lot of friends. But she's a well-known face. So when I'm seen with her it becomes a matter of discussion. Did the light-hearted mood of Kismat Konnection help you get over the break-up with Kareena? More than the film, I had my family and friends who helped me get over that phase. I don't think a film can do it for me. New younger talent has come in after you. Do you still feel like a new kid on the block? Not so new. But I hope to play 'boy' roles until I'm 40. Other actors are doing it. So why not me? I'm very happy being young. I started at 23. I couldn't have asked for more. I'm quite happy playing the college student. As an actor I'm looking for good roles...boy or man is secondary. You don't have a group of directors to work with? I don't keep working with the same set of directors. Of course it's great to work in the comfort zone. I like going from a Sooraj Barjatya to an Imtiaz Ali. Or from Imtiaz, who's 30-plus, to Aziz Mirza, who's 60-plus. And now I've gone to Vishal. The only guy I've worked with more than once is Ken Ghosh. Now we're doing our third film together. I also have my first film with Yash Raj Films where I co-star with Rani Mukerji. Wouldn't you look mismatched with her? That's what I was told when I did Kismat Konnection with Vidya Balan. But if the film and characters work, the doubts will disappear. Finally, what have you learnt from life? Expect anything.

Farah Khan declines Berlin fest jury invite

Citing prior commitments, Bollywood choreographer-turned-director Farah Khan has declined an invitation to serve on the main jury of the 59th Berlin International Film Festival - the Berlinale from February 5 to 15.

"I have been invited to be on the main jury of the Berlin Film Festival," said Farah, who is credited with hits like Main Hoon Na and Om Shanti Om. She also added that the 10-day schedule was too demanding and she had instead decided to be there just for three days as a panellist for a forum that will be a part of the renowned film festival.

"I would have to be there for 10 days but my schedule for Nach Baliye and more importantly, my babies, don't permit me to do so. But because Om Shanti Om was so popular there, they do want me to attend the festival. So I'll be going for a shorter time," she said.

Farah is married to film editor and director Shirish Kunder and is a mother of triplets. These days, she is busy judging Star Plus' dance reality show Nach Baliye 4.

Bollywood singer Shaan still takes music lessons

Famous Bollywood playback singer Shaan is among the best singers in the industry but he continues to take music lessons from his teacher.

A friend of the singer said: "Shaan says that he is still a student as far as singing is concerned. Though he is already an acclaimed singer, he continues taking tutorials under the guidance of Gulam Mustafa Khan sahab.

"Shaan feels that every time he learns the art from his master, he discovers something new - an aspect of singing that he hasn't explored."

Shah Rukh is brilliant, but I'm unable to cast him: Benegal

New Delhi, Jan 5 (IANS) He is full of admiration for Shah Rukh Khan and his on-screen charisma, but veteran filmmaker Shyam Benegal rues that he doesn't have a subject to cast the superstar.

'Shah Rukh is a truly brilliant actor. When he comes on the screen, you hardly look anywhere else but at him - he is that kind of an actor,' Benegal told IANS over telephone from Mumbai.

Asked if he would like to cast the King Khan in any of his films, a disappointed Benegal said: 'How can I cast him? I don't have a subject that might even interest him.'

After the successful comedy 'Welcome To Sajjanpur', which featured Shreyas Talpade and Amrita Rao, the director is set to make a political satire, but refused to divulge any details.

'I am very superstitious, so I won't talk much about the story right now. But I'll surely make a political satire before starting my other films and it would also be a comedy,' Benegal said.

The veteran director will wield the megaphone for projects like 'Chamki Chameli', a film based on the novella 'Carmen' by French writer Prosper Mérimée, and an epic on Lord Buddha titled 'Gautam Buddha'.

'I also plan to make a documentary on the Indian spy princess Noor Inayat Khan. Nothing has been decided yet, but it is in the pipeline,' said Benegal, a Dada Saheb Phalke award winner.

He revealed that he had to defer his plans for a few big-budget films due to the economic downturn.

'Some of my films have got pushed back by a few months because of the ongoing recession. These are very big budget films, and that kind of money is not easily accessible right now. We are just waiting for things to settle down,' he said.

Starting from art house movies to successfully going mainstream, the veteran insists that the 'parallel and commercial' classification in cinema no longer exists.

'There is a kind of stamp that has been put that tries to draw distinction in cinema as parallel or commercial. But now these lines have faded out and have become very blurry. In fact, films being made today that could have been earlier called parallel are being played in multiplexes commercially,' Benegal said.

'For example, films like 'A Wednesday' and 'Rang De Basanti' ... if these movies would have been made earlier would have been called parallel cinema vis-Ã -vis their wide commercial acceptance now,' he added.

Known for giving new dimensions to parallel cinema with movies like 'Manthan', 'Ankur', 'Nishant' and 'Junoon', Benegal ventured into mainstream Bollywood for the first time in 2001 with 'Zubeidaa'.

The film starred one of the then top actresses Karisma Kapoor and yesteryears' top actress Rekha.

Benegal's recent 'Welcome to Sajjanpur', a satirical comedy, too managed to impress audiences.

Asked about the wide variety of subjects he chose for his films, the 74-year-old said: 'I pick my subjects as to what I feel and like according to my interests and concern. I deal with the social problems that confront us. It makes me gravitate to what I want to work on.'

Benegal, in his earlier works, has cast the late Smita Patil in quite a few movies like 'Nishant', 'Charandas Chor', 'Bhumika' and 'Manthan'.

Asked if he considered any of the current actresses at par with her, Benegal said: 'Every generation has its own actors and they have different qualities. We can't generalise actors and compare them with those from earlier films. They have their own strong and weak traits.'

Chandni Chowk to China: Coming soon

Chandni Chowk to China (aka CC2C) movie is inspired from Akshay Kumar's life. It is well-known that that Akshay was a chef in Bangkok before he went on to become Khiladi No. 1 in Bollywood.

Akshay moves away from his favourite heroine Katrina Kaif and joins Deepika Padukone for this film, directed by Nikhil Advani. Simultaneously, Katrina moves closer to Deepika's beau Ranbir Kapoor for Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani.

Earlier slated for a Diwali release, CC2C will now hit screens in January 2009.

Much-hyped 'Kambakkth Ishq' to release May 29

Widely publicised Hindi film 'Kambakkth Ishq', which boasts of featuring international stars like Sylvester Stallone and Brandon Routh, is set for a worldwide release May 29.

The movie by producer Sajid Nadiadwala stars Akshay Kumar as a Hollywood stuntman. It also has Kareena Kapoor, Aftab Shivdasani and Amrita Arora and is the directorial debut of Sabir Khan.

The film, shot within the famed Universal Studios in Los Angeles, was scheduled for a December release but was delayed due to extensive production.

Salman Khan's midnight adventure with Katrina Kaif

Trust the moody Salman Khan to try some urban adventure like riding an autorickshaw in the middle of the night.

Well, that’s what the capricious superstar reportedly did a few days back when he went out for a late night dinner and drinks with his adorable squeeze, Katrina Kaif . The lovers (still together despite the rumours) dined at the posh Olive restaurant well past midnight and when they walked out after 1 am, Salman decided to try his hand at driving.

But instead of taking the wheels of the car, Salman hailed an autorickshaw.Then what! Salman reportedly sat in the driver’s seat while the rick driver sat along with Katrina in the car and the duo followed Salman as he drove the rick, meandering through the deserted roads in the dead of the night.

Of course, this was not Salman’s first ride in the three-wheeler. Having done it a couple of times in the past as well, the superstar has by now acquired a good control over the vehicle.Needless to say, Salman had swell of a time riding the rick, while Katrina must have been amused by her beau’s midnight adventure.

But it is the rickshaw driver who must have been the most thrilled after having sat shoulder-to-shoulder in a car with Asia’s sexiest woman!

Oye! What a luck!

Panchamritam in Malayalam

Leading Chennai based exhibitor ‘Abirami’ Ramanathan’s Tamil film Panchamritam with Jayaram, Nasser, Prakashraj and Saranya Mohan has been dubbed into Malayalam and released on New Year day, by Central Pictures. The film in Malayalam is also called Panchamritam and is directed by Raju Easwaran and is a socio-mythological fantasy movie with music by Sundar.C Babu. The film has Jayaram and Samiksha as the romantic pair, along with Aravind (Srikrishnan of Nandanam Fame), along with a host of Tamil comedians like Karnas, Ganjakaruppu, M.S Bhaskar and others.