October by Vahiju PC

CELINA JAITLEY THE TOAST OF HOLLYWOOD

LOW ON CREATIVITY THOSE TACKY REMAKES!

SAIRA - DILIP THEIR ROMANCE

SONAM-RANBIR PASSION HEART TO HEART

EXCLUSIVE! SHAH RUKH KHAN BARES HIS SOUL!

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Inside 20 Cover Story Just like old wine, Shah Rukh Khan only seems to get better with age! We tackle the

6 Talk of the Town:

The latest news

14 Madame X:

The juiciest gossip

18 Shooting Stars:

The hottest pictures

Badshah’s various roles in Bollywood

28 Home Truths Anjori Alagh’s escape from reality is her cozy home on Malabar Hill where she cooks, paints and spends time with her pets.

34 What’s Cooking Nisha Kothari admits she has a weakness for chocolates. But other than that sticks to

55 Take 3:

vegetables cooked in olive oil.

John Abraham,

Hannsikka Motwani

40 Focus

& Kunal Khemu

Lara Dutta Her new-found success has made the

68 In The Picture:

Soniya Mehra

otherwise frank and blunt Lara more guarded about her privacy. We find out what she’s been up to recently.

80 Romance Down

50 Frankly Speaking

Memory Lane:

Even though Celina Jaitly has become hot

Saira & Dilip Kumar

Hollywood property she says, “Bollywood has a very special place in my heart.”

62 Re-makes-Controversy

The new trend of re-making old classics has fallen flat on its face. Here we take a look at Umrao Jaan, Ram Gopal Varma Ki Aag, Victoria No.203 and Don.

70 Passion Play Sonam Kapoor and Ranbir Kapoor the much awaited hot screen twosome from Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Saawariya unfold their heart.

50 1

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Talk of the town

VIDYA’S NOT MISS GOODY SHOES ANYMORE

Vidya Balan is bored of being miss goody two shoes and has suddenly started giving attitude! Apparently Vidya drove designer Aki Narula completely crazy on the sets of the TIPS film Kismet Connection, when she refused to wear his costumes and halted the film’s shooting. This was shocking for producer Ramesh Taurani because he had appointed Narula on Vidya’s insistence! Our source says that Vidya turned up in her own costumes and refused to wear clothes designed by Narula. Interestingly she even threw away one of the costumes in disgust! Maybe Vidya needs a dose of her Gandhigiri badly…

SALMAN POKES FUN AT AAMIR, SHAH RUKH AND…

KAREENA’S CONFUSION

Wish Kareena would make up her pretty mind. On the one hand she is busy dating Saif Ali Khan at the JW Marriot (they were spotted swimming and dining together) and on the other she is leading Shahid up the garden path. The poor guy who is stuck shooting in Canada is making lavish 27th birthday celebration plans for his girlfriend. He’s planned a lavish party at his Versova residence with sis Karisma Kapoor and taken time off from Aziz Mirza’s film so that he can fly down to Mumbai, celebrate her birthday and spend some quality time with her. The poor boy feels he can win her back and hopes Saif is just a pastime. No one has told him that Kareena seems very serious about Saif and is busy romancing with him. Bebo’s mum loves Shahid and is doing everything to bring them together!

Salman was in full form at the music release of Saawariya and at the receiving end of his jokes were Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan and Ismail Darbar. Commenting on Shah Rukh’s newly developed six packs, Salman said, “I’ve given my six packs to Shah Rukh,” he said bursting into laughter. Whereas, teasing Aamir he said, “Saawariya was refused by Aamir and Shah Rukh, that’s how I got this film!” Meanwhile, Ismail who was present at the event was shocked when Salman said, “Ismail is insecure after listening to the music of this film, which is given by Monty Singh, and hence he isn’t smiling!” Meanwhile Anil Kapoor burst into tears when his daughter Sonam took to the stage, Rani Mukherji who is a close family friend lent him her handkerchief. It seems even Salman’s joke did nothing to lighten Anil’s mood.

OM SHANTI OM FUN-FILLED NIGHT

While Saawariya’s music release was a night of mixed feelings its competitor, Farah Khan’s film Om Shanti Om’s music release was all about fun. Host Cyrus Broacha, teased Shah Rukh about his six pack and even asked him to bare his chest, which a very embarrassed Shah Rukh somehow didn’t agree to. Triplets mum to be Farah Khan was glowing, dressed in a flowy top and costume jewelry. She stuck to Shah Rukh all through the event; is that why husband Shirish Kunder walked in and walked out of the event? Conspicuous by his absence was debutante actress Deepika Padukone’s father, badminton ace Prakash Padukone.

Talk of the town

RANI’S NEW PALACE

Rani Mukherji’s films lately may not have been doing well but that hasn’t affected Rani’s bank balance! And she’s putting no stops to make her new house grand and beautiful. Her two homes has been designed by celebrity wives and interior designers Suzanne Roshan and Twinkle Khanna. Rupees three crores have already been spent on a part of the house. The house has a special massage cum jacuzzi room. Apparently this jacuzzi is special because it can be camouflaged when not in use. Rani’s mantra is to live life Queen Size.

ABHISHEK ACTS POSESSIVE

ASH IRRITATES RANI

If not inviting Rani for her wedding with Abhishek wasn’t enough, Aishwarya further rubbed salt on Rani’s wounds by accompanying Abhishek to the sets of Pradeep Sarkar’s Laga Chunari Mein Daag. Apparently, Ash and Abhishek were glued to each other and completely ignored Rani. Moreover while Rani and Abhishek were filming romantic scenes, Ash would watch them and make faces at Rani making the latter very uncomfortable. We hear even Jaya Bachchan, who plays Rani’s mum in Laga Chunari Mein Daag was present on the sets but she too ignored Rani completely and spent her time with bahu Ash! Well Rani have you forgotten that Ash is a Scorpion; her sting will always be dangerous…

Junior B is turning out to be a tamer version of wife Ash’s exboyfriend Salman. Reportedly, Ash and he were shooting on two different sets at the same studio. While Ash was shooting for Jodha Akbar; he was shooting for a radio commercial. Sources say that Abhishek spent so much time on Ash’s sets that his shoot kept getting delayed and the crew getting more and more annoyed. Moreover Abhishek showed no sign of remorse or guilt and continued with his romantic interludes. Or was it possessiveness? After all wife Ash and her co-star Hrithik shared awesome chemistry in Dhoom 2 and their passionate smooches had become the talk of the town.

SANJU THANKS THE GODS

Out on interim bail, Sanjay Dutt is spending his time thanking all the Gods. He recently visited temples in Shirdi, Ahemdnagar and Vaishnodevi and giving him company were good friend Bunty Walia and fiancée Maanyata. We hear that he’s even proposed marriage to Manyata despite the fact that both his sisters Namrata and Priya don’t like Manyata because of her questionable past. Sanjay also plans to revive his home production Ajanta Arts under the banner of Sanjay Dutt Productions Private Ltd and has already registered the name. His sisters will help him with the production work and they would make films that would make “our parents proud!”

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Talk of the town

HIMESH GETS PRICEY

Look what one hit film can do? Himesh Reshammiya has suddenly become the toast of the town. The man has increased his price to 5 crores after his debut film Aapka Suroor became the first big hit of the year. He has demanded this amount for acting, composing music and signing in the film which is the remake of Karz. But that’s not all. Himesh has signed seven films and is busy till 2009. Apart from that he will also be cutting music albums for T-series. Seems the Himesh mania is here to stay.

WILL UP BETWEEN BIPS AND KATS ?

ROZZA SPYING ON SAIF

Giving up on your ex is difficult and if your ex is hottie Saif Ali Khan then you have every reason to have sleepless nights. We hear Italian Rozza is having a tough time getting Saif out of her mind. She has turned detective and keeps a close tab on his movements. She is desperately trying to get back to him through sms’, friends and keeps in touch with his kids too. She regrets giving Saif a tough time during their relationship. She left him to pursue a career which is practically non existent now!

Their boyfriends are sworn enemies, no wonder Katrina and Bipasha can’t stand each other! But now Yashraj films have done the unbelievable, they’ve signed both these girls for their next flick to be directed by Siddharth Anand! After Salman publicly snubbed Bipasha at a party, sending presspersons into a tizzy, an irritated Bipasha meted out the same treatment to Katrina at a fashion show. But now the girls are being smart as they do not want to risk losing out on a Yashraj film. They have decided to patch up for the sake of their careers!

GAURI TO STAR IN COMMERCIAL?

After her small stint in front of the camera in Om Shanti Om, Gauri Khan is finding it tough to keep the advertisers at bay! She’s already taken the first step by reportedly agreeing to star in a television commercial. In the past Gauri has modeled for close friend Maheep Sanjay Kapoor’s jewelry but those were print advertisements. This time around, however, Gauri will be seen mouthing dialogues for a popular paint commercial. Is this the first step towards an acting career?

Talk of the town

NEHA ON A LEAN MEAN DIET

Her career in Bollywood isn’t going anywhere, so Neha Dhupia has decided to go in for a makeover. The sexy actress has undergone a major change by losing all that extra fat and is glowing! Neha has devised a completely new and strict diet routine for herself and doesn’t miss her gym sessions for anything in this world. “Being a complete foodie sticking to a strict diet was initially very difficult for me. But when I see myself in the mirror I feel it was worth all the trouble!” Hopefully the new look would get her a few roles…

BIPS EYES HOLLYWOOD

RAKHI CRIED HER HEART OUT

Recently Rakhi Sawant, attended an event organised by the Lions Club in Mumbai for physically challenged kids. Seeing the young children perform Rakhi couldn’t control herself and burst into tears. She joined a contestant in singing an emotional song and suddenly burst out crying! Says Rakhi, “The child was singing Aye Malik Tere Bandhe Hum, and his emotions touched me. When I joined him in the song I just couldn’t hold back my tears!” That’s a side of Rakhi that we have never seen!

Following Aishwarya Rai, Bipasha Basu is now heading west and has appointed Simone Sheffield as her manager in Los Angeles. Interestingly, Sheffield is also Ash as well as Isha Koppikar’s Hollywood agent. Bipasha seems to be luckier than Ash as she has already bagged two Hollywood films both from well-known studios and is all set to play a plum role in the international hit television series Lost. When asked about her Hollywood films, Bips refuses to comment. This makes us wonder if these two projects are also like Ash’s role in the James Bond film or Sushmita’s film with Richard Gere that were non existent.

DIRECTOR WOOS SAGARIKA GHATGE

Chak De India! Girl Sagarika Ghatge has found a fan in director Apoorva Lakhia who seems to be quite smitten by her. Apoorva has recently signed her to play one of the leads in his forthcoming film Mission Istanbul, which is being produced by Suniel Shetty. Apoorva has a history of having a soft spot for his leading ladies. He had cast ex-girlfriend Dia Mirza as the leading lady in Ek Ajnabee but replaced her once they broke-up. He even chopped Dia’s role in Shootout At Lokhandwala. Hope Sagarika doesn’t meet with the same fate!

Madame X Hello darlings, it’s been quite a while since I hit you with the news… But fear not, I’ve come well armed with the Salmans, the fights, Kareena’s badgering… Well, let’s just say all of it!

Amitabh: he doesn’t need a reason to talk about Abhishek

Still quite the starry-eyed couple of the year is Ash and Abhishek. In a dramatic gesture she will leave the sets of Pink Panther 2, shooting in Boston and fly back home for Karva Chauth on September 29! She tenderly explained to the makers (who were clueless) about how she MUST fast on that day and MUST see her husband’s face first… And Abhishek in Mumbai continues his end of the love. “It’s a continued honeymoon you could say and it feels very nice. We try to snatch every moment possible together. Being actors we know that in times ahead we might be away from each other for long periods of time.” But this practice of Ash’s of leaving sets does leave filmmakers in tears. She flew off to Boston leaving a glum Ashutosh Gowarikar and Hrithik shooting on their own for Jodhaa-Akbar. Not her fault really, if Ashutosh overshot on his dates… Did I mention Hrithik my sweets? To let you into a little secret, one of the reasons for that great bod is wife Suzanne’s carefully packed lunches. Even if there’s the most tempting food on set, Hrithik will only nibble on the salad and health food from home! But if it’s true six-pack training you’re looking at, Salman Khan is the right one to call! He learnt from pal Sanjay Dutt and now plays official six-pack advisor to Shah Rukh Khan, Ashmit Patel, Arjun (Boney) Kapoor (also sister Arpita’s boyfriend!) and many others…I’m told Salman recently had his trainer Prashant running between his and Shah Rukh’s star homes in Bandra, hence you see SRK with a new sixpack in Om Shanti Om… And now back to love darlings, or should I say the lack of it? Three industry girls who are the best of friends, are all disillusioned… Esha Deol has discovered that men like Zayed Khan and John Abraham just cannot be shared and so is taking a break from love. “I believe love is something that needs time. You need to let that person grow on you and only then can you decide. You can have a crush at first sight. But no filmi love for me.” Celina Jaitley insists, “No relationships right now… I have sweet and sour memories of love but have faced too much heartbreak…” She was earlier involved with someone called Alex and then another lesser known Hollywood Bill somebody or the other. And Lara Dutta is burying herself in work while crying on Katrina and Salman’s shoulders… She just broke up with boyfriend Kelly Dorje after eight years, remember? I know the film released about four months ago darlings but the real Shootout at Lokhandwala is now raging between director Apoorva Lakhia and producer Sanjay Gupta. Apoorva complained to co-producer Ekta Kapoor that he wasn’t paid his entire fee for the film and is sulking. But

Sanjay lashes back with “Apoorva is the most ungrateful man on this planet. After the disastrous Mumbai Se Aaya Mera Dost and Ek Ajnabee, I gave him a prized script because he begged me for it. I gave him a dream cast of 14 stars with the best budget he could imagine.” Well, the Ek Ajnabee reference hasn’t gone down too well with its producer Bunty Walia, who’s now up in arms against Gupta too! And joining in the fray on Apoorva’s side too, is Suniel Shetty. He is producing Mission Istanbul and is fuming ever since Gupta ridiculed the film! But even further behind the scenes of all this is Sanjay Dutt! It seems like there was trouble between Sanjay Gupta and himself after all, over their production company White Feather. Dutt has now quietly announced his own production company: Sanjay Dutt Productions, which he says will be a family affair. And if all the other big boys of films are running around training their bodies, Sanjay’s working out double. Apparently, girlfriend (or is that fiancée or wife?) Manayata feels he ought to work out all his tension through physical training! Diva Rekha recently came out of hiding to play Chief Guest at the first Asia Spa Awards, mid-September. She graced a glittering function at the Hyatt Hotel in Mumbai, where a fashion showcasing of Neeta Lulla and Malini Ramani was the highlight of the evening. I suspect that Rekha agreed to officiate (which she normally avoids doing) only because of the mind-blowing pictures Asia Spa carried of her earlier this year! Apparently, Riteish Deshmukh is sulking over his nonrecognition as a good actor… After being seen in Heyy Babyy and Dhamaal recently, he’s only going to complete E. Niwas’ De Taali and then take a break. He says it’s because he wants to concentrate on the architectural firm he owns. But his publicity department also slips out that Riteish will only accept solo hero roles from now on… Maybe it is time directors took a new look at him – after all, Riteish has proved that he is capable of delivering the goods! Or maybe he ought to take a tip from Kareena Kapoor. When she wants something, she tries her best to get it… I’m not speaking of Saif darlings, I’m talking about films. Ever since she heard that Shah Rukh Khan (of whom she openly confesses she is an ardent fan) signed South director Shankar’s film Robot, she made up her mind to act in it. She even paid SRK a visit at his home Mannat. With Gauri present too, Kareena told him why she thought she was perfect for the female lead! Don’t know if SRK’s biting that bait darlings. After all, Kareena and he last appeared in a disaster called Asoka! And now it’s time for me to fly pets… But not before I leave you with this little gem. The latest progress on the Amitabh-Shah Rukh front is a gushing call from AB to SRK, to congratulate him on Chak De India! The only thing that comes to mind is the teenage rhyme: ‘He loves him, he loves him not… He loves him…’ See you next month!

Shooting stars

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP Gulzar and Anu Malik at Pritish Nandy Communications’ photo exhibition at the Museum Gallery, Kala Ghoda. Sanjay Dutt and Manyata at the premier of Dhaamal at Cinemax. Dressed like a politician, he even joked saying, “I would like to be a politician!” Supporting the charity event ‘India On Canvas’, Abhishek poses with a child, and cousin Namrata Bachchan. Shilpa Shetty wearing a Tarun Tahiliani ensemble walks the ramp with the designer himself at the Wills Fashion show in Delhi. At the press conference of Nanhe Jaisalmer at Club Millennium, Juhu, Bobby Deol hugs Vatsal Seth. Making a rare appearance. Raakhee Gulzar with Najma Heptullah at Spandan, a socio-cultural organisation, at Rang Sharda, Bandra.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP Bollywood diva Rekha with Jackie Shroff at the Asia Spa Awards function at the Grand Hyatt. The award ceremony was followed by a grand fashion show by Neeta Lulla. Sonam Kapoor, Rani, Salman and Ranbir Kapoor at the spectacular music launch of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Saawariya at the J W Marriott, Juhu. Preity Zinta and John Abraham receive the best actor and best actress awards at the 35th Giants Day Awards ceremony at the Regal Room, Hilton Towers. At the music launch of her debut film Om Shanti Om Deepika Padukone on stage with producer Shah Rukh Khan and director Farah Khan. Film Star and Sunfeast Brand Ambassador Shah Rukh Khan kicked off the Chak De Sania Mirza campaign in his true inimitable style, while wishing Sania all the best for the upcoming Sunfeast Open in Kolkata. “The Prime Minister has kindly agreed to release my memoirs titled ‘Romancing Life’ on a day when it is both my birthday and his on September 26,” said Dev Anand at a press meet at his residence.

Cover Story

DE-CODING

SHAH RUKH KHAN Just like old wine, Shah Rukh Khan only seems to get better with age! He’s turned on an entirely new phase in his career at 42, with Chak De India! For a change, in his own words, he isn’t, “chasing other men’s women!” We tackle the Badshah’s various roles in Bollywood – as a terrific actor, a family man, and the richest star!

THE BADSHAH STILL RULES: From the dreamy-eyed Delhi lad to the undefeated Badshah of Bollywood, it hasn’t been an easy journey for Shah Rukh Khan. But age and success haven’t made him lethargic; instead, he’s turning new pages and trying something different with every new film. His last film Chak De India! apart from making him a national youth icon, has also become 2007’s highest grosser so far. Chak De India! managed to do what Swades failed to. Shah Rukh proved to his detractors that he could do non-romantic and serious roles with equal élan as opposed to the glitzy Don and manage to pull audiences into the cinema halls. Even Yashraj Films got a new lease of life after the dismal failure of Jhoom Barabar Jhoom and Ta Ra Rum Pum. Trade reports reveal that Chak De India! has net an amazing 51 crores in four weeks in India and grossed nearly two million dollars in the UK and the US! But rather than party with success, SRK is slogging hard to make his next venture, home-production Om Shanti Om, directed by Farah Khan, a huge success. After avoiding the shirtless-muscular look for a long time he’s now kicked off all fat to develop the much envied six-pack abs, which has had everyone from Hrithik to Salman and Sanjay complimenting him. Is this the same Shah Rukh who suffered a severe back injury in 2003 and was advised by doctors against straining his back? “I guess it’s just a part of God’s plan for me. Thankfully, my back is much better now and for the last two years the pain has only reduced. While shooting in Malaysia last year for Don, I tried out different forms of fitness training and I just stuck to it and here I am!” confesses Shah Rukh. Apparently, son Aryan and good friend Farah Khan

encouraged Shah Rukh to go in for the lean and muscular look. A strict diet and a fixed training regime is the secret of his toned body. In Om Shanti Om Shah Rukh romances a much younger Deepika Padukone. He plays a struggling background actor who falls in love with Deepika, a popular actress. Their love story is cut short by a male superstar, Arjun Rampal, who has Shah Rukh murdered. However the latter is reborn and comes to avenge his death. Adds Shah Rukh, “Om Shanti Om is a fun film and I’m sure everyone will enjoy it!” The film releases on November 9 along with Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s magnum opus, Saawariya. But the scales seem to be tipping in favour of Om Shanti Om because of Shah Rukh’s presence and the amount of hype surrounding the film. Apparently, the otherwise self-effacing Bhansali requested Shah Rukh to postpone the release of his film but Farah was adamant not to!

“I’d rather play the hero in a small-budget Bollywood film than play a glorified extra in James Bond!” he exclaims and goes on to tell us how he was approached for a remake of a popular Hollywood film. “They asked me to send in my resume so I didn’t apply! If they want to approach me for work then they better do some background research about me! I don’t need them if they don’t know me!” He may sound a little outrageous but the man whose very name gets people thronging to cinema halls can afford to say this. He’s managed to stay away from being bitten by the crossover and Hollywood bug but still finds himself at Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum in London. “When I was there for the unveiling, I felt proud of myself but I missed my mum! As a child, I had come here with her and she had told me then that one day, I should have my wax figure here! Had she been alive she would have been very happy and proud of me,” Shah Rukh gets nostalgic.

NO HOLLYWOOD DREAMS No pseudo-intellectualism or Hollywood dreams for Shah Rukh. “I’ve never aspired for Hollywood and I don’t think they need me there!” he says rather non-chalantly when we ask him about his cross-over plans. His detractors may put him down by saying that he’s aiming for a National Award and hence went on to do a Chak De India! One has to give Shah Rukh the credit of taking such a huge risk by taking on a role that required him to look scrawny, serious and moreover, didn’t have him in the spotlight!

THE KING’S EMPIRE History hasn’t had a single badshah without minor scuffles or enemies and SRK is no different! There are numerous tales of his enmity with Amitabh Bachchan and their socalled cold-war. But recently, sources say, after watching Shah Rukh’s Chak De India! Bachchan was blown and he immediately called Shah Rukh to congratulate him! While he may compete at the box-office with Salman, Sanjay Dutt, Hrithik, Saif and Akshay; off-screen he’s on good terms with all of them. Recently, all of the above actors shot for an

item number in Shah Rukh’s Om Shanti Om. We asked a few stars to say a line on Shah Rukh’s best traits and here’s what they came up with! Hrithik Roshan: “His energy is infectious and inimitable.” Amrita Rao: “He is extremely genuine and very down to earth.” Farah Khan: “He’s supported me in every possible way, morally, emotionally and even financially, during the making of my debut film!” Karan Johar: “I can never go on a film set where he isn’t there. He’s the elder brother I never had.” Rani Mukherji: “For me, he’s a legend!” Priyanka Chopra: “I think nobody can match his energy and his zest to work hard and push himself!” Deepika Padukone: “Shah Rukh is such a normal, down to earth person – there’s nothing starry about him. He really looked after me during the making of Om Shanti Om.” THE FAMILY MAN While most stars complain that they don’t get to spend much time with their families, Shah Rukh is an exception. He’s present at all the Parent Teacher meetings as well as all his children’s school events. Every year, he sees to it that he treats his family to a holiday abroad. This year, they visited Europe and were snapped by fans that spotted Shah Rukh and family along with Juhi Chawla and her kids at Disney in Paris. “Juhi and I happened to be in London this summer, so we thought of going together for a trip to France!” says Shah Rukh. London has almost become a second home to Shah Rukh, who says that the city lets him be himself. “I love the fame and adulation but there are moments when I just want to walk happily on the streets and go to Starbucks and have

a cup of coffee! Sometimes it’s great to be invisible!” muses this man who’s managed to create a dedicated fan following in the NRI market as well. Talking about his kids Shah Rukh says, “Aryan is very much into sports. He has a lot of energy and Gauri sees to it that his energies are chanelised in the right direction! Suhana is a very curious girl and wants to know everything! I don’t want my kids to have any illusions about me when they see me on-screen so I take them to my sets and show them that everything they see in films is make-believe and fake.” THE MAN MINUS THE GREASEPAINT What’s the real Shah Rukh like? We try to get him to speak about how he is when he isn’t facing the camera. “I’m a simple family man who loves spending time with his wife and family. A simple dinner at home with close friends and family is my way of partying,” is his reply. Wife Gauri Chibber Khan is his biggest critic. “Sometimes I’m scared of her opinions!” he jokes. Gauri disliked Shah Rukh’s Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna and told him this point blank. “She told me that it’s too bold and that she didn’t believe in the film after she saw it at the trial,” explains Shah Rukh. Apart from acting Shah Rukh is passionate about technical gadgets. “I’m very much into high tech gizmos and gadgets. The amount of technological development man has made over the years simply fascinates me!” says Shah Rukh. He’s also a big fan of the X Box series and competes with son Aryan to get his share of gaming at home “I’m addicted to video games. While shooting for Main Hoon Na along with Zayed, I had a great time. Zayed’s also into gaming and I remember we would rush off to play games in between shoots! In fact, I get video games for my kids but they are too advanced for them and I end up playing with them myself!” COMING SOON Shah Rukh will finally fulfill his dream of playing a superhero. Apparently, south Indian director Shankar, who’s earlier made techno and sci-fi films like Gentleman, Jeans, Hindustani, Nayak and Aparichit has signed Shah Rukh for his next film Robot. This film will be produced by Shah Rukh’s company Red Chillies Entertainment Limited and will have never-seen-before action and digital SFX sequences. Shah Rukh is also in talks with Yash Chopra and Aditya Chopra for yet another film, a romantic comedy which will be directed by Adi Chopra himself. This film is still in the scripting stages. MONEY TALKS The highest paid male actor in Bollywood, Shah Rukh is probably also the richest. A heritage structure in Bandstand for a house, a building in Khar and two other apartments, Shah Rukh has invested a lot in real estate. He confesses that he isn’t a good businessman when it comes to asking people to pay up. “I can’t ask people for money. I let my office and my accountants do that but I guess I’m becoming smarter now!” he chuckles. It is reported that Shah Rukh is planning to buy off the famed Mehboob Studios and is even ready to pay Rs.300 crores to the owners, who don’t want to sell as of now. We also hear that very soon, he plans to have his own studio and if Mehboob Studios poses a problem he’s looking for other plots too. He also has a number of top endorsements deals like Tag Heure, Dabur, Santro, Videocon, Pepsi, Belmont, Louis Phillipe, Sunfeast, Navratan and Oakley, among others.

Home Truths

HOUSE ON THE

HILL After stepping into the film world with Vikram Bhattâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Life Mein Kabhi Kabhie, daughter of actress Maya Alagh, is all set to start her next film Fame. But with her busy schedule of running from one studio to another, what Anjori Alagh misses the most is spending time in her beautiful home. We step into her parlor to find out what makes Anjori tickâ&#x20AC;Ś

I cherish my home and the best thing I love about it is the stupendous view. It is beautiful to look down Malabar hill from here. The sea looks so gorgeous and soothing. We actually lowered the balcony wall and put up these huge mirrors here just to get a better view of our surroundings. It is so peaceful sitting here on the balcony and just dreaming. My Mom is totally responsible for the décor of the entire apartment. She did it on her own with no help from any interior designers. But, I have designed my own room. She has been collecting stuff for years and mixing and matching them. She has a great taste. I like her silver collection the best. The Chinese pot was bought by my great grandmother years ago and holds a prime position in our house. The rest of the artifacts my mother has collected from different places over the years. My favourite spot at home is the huge antique swing. Mum got this swing many years ago from Rajasthan and it was lying in our storeroom till we got this house. What I like is the beautiful Rajasthani woodwork on the frame of the swing. My greatest relaxation is cooking. I love cooking. I used to cook a lot earlier. For the three months while I was working in New York and I’d cook every evening. But now that I have

come home, I have become very lazy. I think I should start as I find it very calming and relaxing. My specialty is a very tasty dish called Khou Sui, which is a Burmese dish. My best friend’s mother taught me this. It is a noodle-based dish with gravy and chicken pieces to which you add green chilies and garlic and sprinkle cardamoms on top. My mother is a brilliant cook. She concocts her own recipes and I have grown up on her delicious dishes. I spend allot of my time painting. It is my stress-buster. If I am very upset or angry, I find painting very de- stressing. It is very therapeutic. I may not be a brilliant painter, but I do it for fun. If I get an idea I put it down on canvass. I have not had any formal training painting, it all comes naturally. Among all the painters I like Vikas Bhattacharya and Sanjay Bhattacharya the most. I usually paint human forms as I do not like abstracts or scenery. Recently, I did a painting of Gautam Buddha. My mother says it is beautiful and has hung it on my bedroom wall. I enjoy dance. I did Kathak for two years and then I learnt all the filmi dances too. I spend allot of my time dancing and like learning new forms of dancing. People like Shiamak Davar come up with all these new ideas and steps which are very impressive. So I watch and try to learn them, that’s how

Your dog’s name? I don’t have a dog. My sister Sanvari has one, named Pablo. I have two cats one is Storm and one is Masti.

much I love dance! I wouldn’t mind doing an item number in a film if it has a really good song. In fact I would love to do one, it’ll be fun. I am obsessed with shoes. Just love them. It is my fetish. If you tell me not to buy clothes or accessories, I won’t buy any…but if I have fallen in love with a pair of shoes, I just have to buy them. When at home, I like to be dressed in jeans and track pants. I spend lot of time in the gym so I roam around in track pants. I like feminine skirts too. I think jeans are the easiest thing to slip on. A great out fit to wear are a pair of jeans and a T-shirt. I’m mad about shampoos and body lotions with different perfumes. But I buy them more for the great bottles, shapes and colours to make my bathroom look more beautiful (laughs).

Animals, I adore. I have two cats and a street cat. My married sister Sanvari, has taken our dog Pablo with her. The street cats live outside but come up to be fed everyday. My cats are named Masti and Storm. They are both like my children. Actually my mother and sister are also very fond of animals. I love animals to the extent that I actually wanted to join an NGO but I haven’t got the time to do so yet. I do what I can in my own small way. Like, if there are some hungry dogs, I will feed them or if I see an injured animal, I will pick it up and take it to the vet. I do my best. Eventually I would like to join some NGO or start a shelter of my own and I am hoping that I can afford to do it soon. This is what will give me the greatest satisfaction.

What’s Cooking

EAT

RIGHT! 34

If there’s sense and sensibility about eating – it’s got to be Nisha Kothari! This screen bombshell looks the way she does only because her diet is the first thing she takes care of. Well yes, chocolates are a weakness but everyone has their soft spots…

Catch Nisha in this allfood interview!

hen I’m shooting My eating habits definitely change. I totally avoid oily food and don’t eat unit food since it has too much masala. I’m used to a very light diet and prefer to cook in olive oil if I can help it. On work days I especially avoid eating too much since you tend to have water retention which is terrible for your look before the camera! For Work day meals Everything goes with me from my kitchen at home! Before I leave in the morning I have a glass of juice and five almonds which have been soaked in water overnight. Lunch on the sets could vary… I get my boy to prepare sprouts the way I like to eat them or I have lots of fruit and salad – I even carry my own salad dressing! On other days I might just have some boiled vegetables with two chapattis. As day refreshers I take a multi-vitamin tablet, since we shoot for long hours and you need to keep your stamina intact. I find that orange juice – which has lots of vitamin

C – is the best thing to give you energy, revive tiredness and make your skin glow. I also love coconut water and water melon juice. Holiday eating means I may not be too strict with myself… I’d probably eat a little rice and dal. If my mom’s in town I love her parathas and would binge on them. But generally, I’m used to eating less; I don’t have very big meals. Actually, what I eat depends on my mood. If I’m going out for lunch then a nice Greek salad would be great. But on the whole, I prefer good ‘ghar ka khaana’! My weakness Chocolates, chocolates and chocolates! You must remember to eat when you’re depressed, sad or upset. I’m aware that I have to look good before the camera so even if something has upset me, I force myself to eat a meal. Eating right changes your thinking. You actually feel healthier and it helps you get over your moods. So you should eat, not too much, not too little and take care of yourself!

NISHA’S OWN RECIPE – GLOWING SOUP! INGREDIENTS:

METHOD:

A cup each of chopped, washed and

In a pan, melt the butter. Add the

boiled: French beans, cauliflower,

onion, brown lightly and then add

broccoli, mushroom, carrot and half a

the corn flour and the stock and boil

potato,1 onion, chopped fine,1 table-

this for two minutes. Heat the milk

spoon corn flour (dissolved in a little

and add it to the soup. Now add the

water),1 cup milk,1 tablespoon lemon

boiled vegetables and simmer for

juice,2 tablespoons fresh chopped

10 minutes on a slow fire. When the

parsley,Salt and pepper to taste,2

soup is done, add the lemon juice,

tablespoons butter for frying,3 cups

pepper and salt. Lastly, decorate with

brown stock

parsley before serving. Serve hot with brown bread. Serves four.

For the stock: A handful each of: Carrots, white pumpkin, cabbage, one onion, half a potato. One cardamom, a pinch of tea leaves for colour. Boil all the ingredients in a pressure cooker, cool this and strain the tea leaves and cardamom and blend in a food processor with the soup of the prepared stock.

My favourite restaurants in Mumbai are Urban Tadka in Andheri where I love their tandoori salads. Just Around the Corner in Bandra has the best salads. But I must say I do not go to restaurants that much because I don’t have many friends and most of the time I’m working. We stay in five-star hotels when location shooting so often that I generally eat something light. I don’t mind experimenting if someone suggests a good dish but I can’t go all out. I long for the paani puri – which is called puchka – in Kolkata! I even asked one of the puchka wallas to come to Mumbai and we could share a business!

and then stop. Yes I diet When I know I have a shooting schedule coming up. I start on a diet of my own 15 days before that. I give up rice totally; have more soup, boiled vegetables, juice, coconut water, leafy vegetables and lots of curd. I don’t touch oily food or ice-cream. My favourite food is dal-chawal. It is my all-time favourite! Even if I’m really angry I can eat it! By the way, I’m a total vegetarian. Alcohol is a no- no I don’t drink alcohol at all.

But Delhi is the place for parathas! I visit the amazing Parathewali Galli in Connaught Place where you get at least 200 types of parathas. They also make parathas to your specification. In Mumbai, I like eating vada-pao. Fast food is something I’m moody about. I may eat pizza for a whole month and then go off it completely. If I like some kind of fast food I’ll eat it about 10-15 times

My favourite beverages is coconut water for sure! Since I have tonsillitis I am careful about drinking anything too cold. I don’t like soft drinks at all. I prefer coffee or Bournvita. I also enjoy kava, which is Kashmiri tea. But water is the best thing to drink – preferably warm water. I enjoy cooking In fact, I love to cook! I make good

vegetable biryani, kheer, pav-bhaji, salads, soups and chutney. In my family cooking is very important. We come from a Rajasthani Jain family and my dad will only eat the food that my mom cooks. He won’t touch anyone else’s food! But the nice part is that dad cooks too – he makes great salads as well! When he’s in Mumbai, he’ll keep experimenting with salads since he knows I like them. The last time he was here, he taught me a great tandoori salad! In the monsoons I don’t have any particular craving to eat something while it’s raining. Pakodas don’t interest me at all! Bhutta is good… But I prefer ice-cream in the rain! And if I’m home on a rainy day, I like to put together different foods and make a good hotchpotch! Eating abroad is great It’s not a problem for vegetarians at all! I go by the colours of all the lovely fruits and vegetables you find. It’s so appetizing! I shot for my first film Jai Jai in Greece and I loved all the Greek salads. I also love the Greek rice preparations. Our unit would work hard all day and then celebrate in the evening by sharing our meals. We also shot on a huge ship for three days (took a cruise) and the food was great!

Focus

LARA DUTTA

HITS OUT From falling and injuring her knee to being a tad too friendly with her co-stars or breaking up with long time boyfriend, every little thing that Lara Dutta does she manages to hit the spotlight. Her newfound success has made the otherwise frank and blunt Lara more guarded about her privacy. We put the former Miss Universe in focus

low and steady wins the race; is probably the mantra to Lara’s success. While she didn’t get immediate success like her contemporary, former Miss World Priyanka Chopra, Lara didn’t loose heart. She waited in the wings and worked as hard as she could. Success knocked on her door this year with Yashraj Film’s Jhoom Barabar Jhoom, the film may have flopped but Lara’s role was well received and in her own words she has been “flooded with offers!” Lara, though, is in no tearing hurry to make it to the top spot, “I want to do good films. Work that makes me proud! I guess I just want to be happy with my work and not just do anything and everything that comes my way. I’ll be choosier from now on!” After doing a Yashraj film you can say that! She’s recently signed Sudhir Mishra’s Aur Devdas, where she’ll play the leading actress opposite Shiney Ahuja. Lara will play Paro in this modern version of Devdas with a political touch to it. She has an admirer in Salman Khan with whom she recently starred in the hit film Partner. Reportedly Salman is so impressed with Lara and has been referring her to a lot of

producers these days. In fact he has recently signed her to play the lead opposite him in brother Sohail Khan’s film Mr. And Mrs. Khanna. When asked what she has to say about her new found friendship with the troubled Khan she replies, “Salman is a darling. He’s like a tough nut on the exterior but soft and mushy on the inside!” But as luck would have it just as her professional life was doing good, there were reports that her personal life was in shambles. Rumours were abuzz about her split with boyfriend of eight-years Kelly Dorjee! Some thought that her new found success was to blame, while some linked her with a mysterious Italian business magnate. Some others linked her to co-star Bobby Deol. Lara didn’t take this lying down and shot back at the press saying, “I’ll pay a cash prize to anyone who finds and introduces me to this Italian. As per my knowledge and memory goes I haven’t met any such person!” But when it came to talking

about Kelly, the otherwise outspoken Lara sealed her lips, “I don’t want to talk about my personal life any more,” is all she said. What about her friendship with her male co-stars, especially with Bobby Deol. Was he the reason for her split? To this Lara angrily replied, “I’ve been friendly with all my male co-stars and linking me with Bobby is absurd! All the guys I’ve worked with; Abhishek Bachchan, Akshay Kumar, Salman Khan and even Sanjay Dutt, all have bonded with me. In fact Abhishek calls me Paaji, because I remind him of a Sikh guy!” Lara’s now focused on scripting and has started writing for a few films, “I had initially wanted to be a journalist, so I’m enjoying every moment of writing! I am working on two scripts at the moment. One is a period film in which there is a lot of research going on presently and the second one is a romantic comedy. That’s all I can say!” We hope Lara the script writer finds great success!

Style check

SHARMA

STYLE!

This glam girl from Delhi has done Mahesh Bhatt’s Vishesh Films’ Awaarapan and will next be seen in his Showbiz within a month. Talk about style and Mrinalini Sharma has lots of it, having earlier modeled for prestigious campaigns in Mumbai! OUTFITS/ACCESSORIES/WARDROBE My Favourite Outfit A comfortable pair of jeans and a ganji. My Favourite Outfit when I am driving to a Shoot That’s pretty much the same as what I’ve mentioned above, since I’m really big on comfort dressing. My Favourite Evening Wear It all depends on whether I’m going clubbing or partying… I’d still wear my jeans with probably a dressier top. For Formal Dining I’d definitely wear a dress on the slightly shorter side, above the knees. I’m not experimental with asymmetrical designs and like slim fit clothes, so the dress should fit well. To a Party at a Friend’s Place I’d wear a version of pants or cargos, and still stick to my jeans if possible! My Favourite Outfit for a Formal Occasion That would probably be a pretty dress or a gown, depending on the occasion. If it’s a wedding I would wear a sari for sure. I Like to Sleep In My favourite pair of star spangled black pajamas and any top to go with it. I love my pajamas! My Favourite Designers are I’m not big on designer clothes because of my style of comfort dressing. But I do love the designs of Sunit Verma, Rohit Bal… I also like Raghuvendra Rathore’s cuts and designs. And definitely Wendell Rodericks, who does some great stuff! My Favourite Colours are Black and white is my all-time colour, besides all shades of blue. My Favourite Brand in Jeans is/are Well through my teenage years I always wore Levis. Now I wear a lot of Calvin Klein, since they have the best fit.

I have a Collection of Between Delhi and Mumbai, I have at least 60 pairs of shoes! I have a Fetish for That would be shoes again and also earrings. My Favourite Accessory is Earrings! My Wardrobe is Incomplete Without A good pair of jeans… I have grown up in jeans, live in them and will probably die in them too… I Look Best in I absolutely adore my ribbed jeans which I combine with a funky top or a corset. Sometimes I combine my jeans with a tunic top and boots, which looks good. Or a really pretty dress would suit me. I Would Like My Man to be Dressed In A good pair of jeans and some nice Tees, in colours of white, black or reds. HAIRCARE My Shampoo is Bonacure treatment from Schwarzkopf My Conditioner is Also Bonacure from Schwarzkopf My Hair is Suffering at the moment due to the harsh lighting of shooting and products application! The Texture of my Hair is On the whole I have thick hair and my friends are amazed at how fast it grows. The Colour of my Hair is Brown I Like my Hair Streaked in Right now, I have it in reddish-brown highlights. At Home I Like my Hair to be Tied up in a ponytail For Formal Occasions I Straighten my hair. At Night my Hair is I tend to leave it loose at night. My Hairstylist is Asif I admire/ envy the Hair of A cousin of mine who lives in South Africa

MAKE-UP When I am not Shooting I don’t use anything like foundation. I definitely use kajal and a touch of mascara on my eyes. Once in a while, I apply a dash of lip gloss. My Favourite Shades of Make-up are Because I have an olive skin and a wheatish complexion, I use warmer tones. On my cheeks I apply an orange or corral undertone. I use a slight muted gold shade on my eyes for formal occasions; accentuate them with kajal and mascara. I leave the rest to a no-make-up look. For my lips it’s a tinge of lip gloss with a slight tinge of pink. My Favourite Brands in Make-up are Nars, Mac, Make Up Forever The features I like to Conceal When Doing Make-up Thankfully, I haven’t had to do that. The features I like to Highlight People say my eyes are my best feature so I like to highlight them. My Favourite Perfume Boss Red, Organza, Miracle by Lancôme My Handbag at any time Consists of Half my house in fact, everything but the kitchen stove! My Favourite Brands in Bags Again I’m not a brand person but picked up a whole suitcase of bags I liked while shooting in Bangkok! I still have more than half to use! The Best Dressed Men & Women in the Industry John Abraham dresses pretty much as a today person, while Saif Ali Khan has a classic way of dressing. Among the women I like the way Preity Zinta dresses. Among the younger lot, I like the way Kangana Ranaut dresses. For the First Day of my Shoot I Wore The outfit was a white skirt, a white blazer and a white shirt with a black and white collar. I Pick up my Clothes From Stores all over Bandra, like Si Branche, Phat Fish for casuals. If I’m going really dressy, I shop at Boulevard Benzer. I Never Leave my House Without My cell phone, wallet, keys and my kajal! My Wallet Always Contains My driver’s license, my debit and credit cards and cash. An Inexpensive Thing I Bought but Treasure A pair of earrings from Delhi which have been with me for a really long time. The Brand of Watch I Wear I don’t wear a watch! In Shoes I’m not really a brand person so I pick up whatever I like. I enjoy picking up shoes from Voyeur in Bandra. I enjoy picking up shoes from Voyeur in Bandra.

Frankly Speaking

THE TOAST OF

HOLLYWOOD!

Though she’s globe and Hollywood trotting these days, Celina Jaitley retains the tone of voice and manner she always did. But celebration is definitely in order, as she takes centre stage with Brillstein-Grey, a premiere Hollywood agency, getting her plum projects she earlier probably only dreamed of! Having just completed the shooting of Love Has No Language in New Zealand, she’s on to her next – The Quest of Sheherazade. Heady with success and planning to shift base? Celina laughs, “No, Bollywood has a very special place in my heart!”

You’ve come a long way since the controversies your film Red brought with it! You know, it’s all thanks to Vikram Bhatt’s Red that my Hollywood career was carried forward! So I owe him a big thank you and people here were unfair to his film. It was one made far ahead of its time. Do you know that Red was seen by my Hollywood agents, Brillstein-Grey who then made a decision to take me on? It was also seen by the makers of Love Has No Language whose film I just shot for in New Zealand. And now, it’s been seen by the Hollywood producers of The Quest of Shehrazade, whose film I have just signed. Why did you refuse Pink Panther 2? I decided to decline the film on the advice given to me by Brillstein-Grey Entertainment. I love Steve Martin and would have loved to work with him but my agent rightly felt that I should enter Hollywood with a more substantial role! Of course the final decision was left to me and when I thought about it, I also wanted to make an entry into Hollywood with a more prominent role. But apparently, the role was written for Aishwarya Bachchan… What can I say to this? My agents and I know I was offered the film and I can prove this. But a certain person’s manager has been calling everyone to say ‘Celina was not offered the role, it was only tailor made for her (Aishwarya). In Hollywood roles are only tailor made and written for people like Brad Pitt or Tom Cruise. Everyone else, even Renee Zellweger, auditions for roles… So what is the big deal in saying that you auditioned for the role? Whoever’s doing the movie should be happy they’re doing the role. I can understand if the role was first offered to her and I got it… Then there’s cause to make a noise about it. This really is much ado about nothing! With Pink Panther being almost legendary, did it cause a tug to refuse it? Honestly, at the time I was offered the film, I was shooting for Love Has No Language and didn’t have the time to concentrate on the finer details. Besides there was this age factor thing – a 24-year-old appearing opposite Steve Martin doesn’t make too much sense. Then the length of role wasn’t very attractive either. I would love to work with Steve Martin but perhaps in another kind of film. Yes, Pink Panther is legendary but whatever happens; happens for the best. My refusal may sound wrong to others but for me, it’s my choice.

You have been signed by one of Hollywood’s biggest agencies. How did you get them? While I was shooting for Love Has No Language in New Zealand, my pictures were being circulated. After doing a lot of research on me, we got down to signing a contract where they would represent my interests abroad. Naturally I was thrilled since Brillstein-Grey represents people like Brad Pitt and Nicholas Cage. Actually, it’s thanks to Aishwarya Rai, who has put us on the map abroad with her international interaction. She has proved that India has beautiful women. Her portrayal as the modern Indian woman is very different from the perception foreigners have of us perhaps snake charmers or something… Aishwarya has changed all that. Can you tell us a little about Love has No Language? It’s the story of a Kiwi Indian girl, born and brought up in New Zealand. And it was an eyeopener for me too. We always hear of the American and British culture of Indians living there but not much is known about Indians in New Zealand. And theirs is a totally different culture. Being of mixed parentage myself, I could identify better with the film. Besides, Love Has No Language has a great director who was technical advisor to Lord of the Rings. Do you plan to quit Bollywood? No… Never! What I am looking for is a balance between Bollywood and Hollywood. I have a film with Suneil Darshan. It’s a family drama. Then in the pipeline is Kalpana Lajmi’s next crossover film. I am also in talks with other makers but now I am not going to do any stupid films anymore. What films do you have up for release? Well on the shooting and near completion list are Dulha Mil Gaya, Kaash Tumse Mohabbat Na Hoti, Unusual Love Story, One Night, No Entry II. You did ‘Red for Africa’ in LA… Which Hollywood stars did you interact with? There were about 21 prominent individuals of the world who came together to do this. It was a most prestigious charity show, where every big shot of Hollywood came together to raise funds for a special cause. I felt extremely privileged to be a part of this event. Do the RED thing! The list included George Clooney, Oprah Winfrey, super model Iman, Bono, President Bush, Bill Gates, Madonna…

Tell us about the British festival you recently attended? The Mayor of London invited me to be the Guest of Honour at their festival, India Now. I am so proud that India is now considered a super power instead of people thinking of us as having only elephants and the Taj Mahal. India even contributes to the economies of the UK. What a drastic change from 60 years ago and now! It’s exciting to be living in a time where there’s a whole change of generations and our future represents the changing the face of India. So this festival is held and viewed from a youth point of view. What impacted you about the India Now festival? Honestly I was proud and moved to tears with hundreds of Indians, South East Asians and even people from Africa attending. I was also amazed at the reach of Indians and our films that take news of film stars so far abroad. A little girl from Nairobi who could have been no more than six or seven came up and asked me, ‘How is your doggie Teacup doing?’ What about the historical epic The Quest of Shehrazade you’ve signed, as the legendary warrior princess? It’s a great opportunity to be associated with the project, especially since there are two A-list Hollywood stars, one senior and one junior opposite me. I would like to explore and experiment with different kinds of cinema. In fact, being fluent in German, I would like to do a German film too. But Bollywood will always remain a priority for me. I have taken a conscious decision to do two good Bollywood films and one international film every year. It’s every actor’s dream to be taken seriously as an actor.

What inspired you to be the brand ambassador for PETA for elephants? Actually it wasn’t just elephants, I signed on as brand ambassador for all animals. It’s just that at the time I got to know of the terrible state of elephants in our zoos and outside temples. They don’t belong in captivity, since their mental control goes wild. Do you know that even outside temples, they tie one leg of the elephant so that they can’t even sit down? That’s cruelty… So I decided there was nothing wrong if I wore hot pants to campaign and get attention towards the elephants’ cause. Sadly enough, people wrote all sorts of things about this – one publication even labelled me a hooker! But my campaign made news worldwide so it was worth it. Strange, when Elle McPhearson did the same campaign in Australia and wore the same thing, it was okay! We hear you’re rather proud of your mum, who recently obtained a degree? Yes, I think she shocked us all in the family, my brother and dad included! She was always a student of English Literature and recently, she decided to take that a step further. She took up her studies after so many years and got her Masters in Literature in First Division from the Rani Ahiliyabai University of Indore! My brother and I keep talking about doing things like this but even at our age we haven’t done anything… We are so proud of her and yes, we celebrated with a big bash. Since my dad and brother were elsewhere at the time, she flew to New Zealand where I was shooting. We had a ball together and shopped so much that we got back with excess baggage! Of course I still have to give her a very special gift for her achievement!

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Take TANISHA MUKHERJEE POOJA BHATT DINO MOREA

“I WAS FLATTERED BY THE COMPARISON TO

ANTONIO BANDERAS!” With Water and Luna John has made it to the international arena. Along with this he has collected a number of controversies regarding his fights with Salman and Arshad Warsi. But John will not be drawn into a verbal battle. He has maintained a stoic silence over his break-up, make-up and break up with long standing girlfriend Bipasha and is not about to break his silence. He says he prefers to be seen than heard. Why have you have been in hiding? I have no reason to hide! I’m inaccessible to the media when I’m shooting abroad. Also when I’m busy shooting I like to focus on my film and not on other things. Are you excited about Luna? It is a very proud moment for me that Deepa Mehta has shown such faith in me. It is a beautifully etched role. I play an activist. My co star is the famous Rachel Weisz. Her performance in The Constant Gardner was unbelievable! Luna is based on the life of Julia Hill who is one amazing personality. We think of activists as mature and boring but Julia is a 27-year-old fun and funky person who is passionate about her work. So she’s the one who said you resemble the hot and hunky Antonio Banderas? I cannot deny that I was flattered by the comparison. Who wouldn’t be? He’s such a good-looking Hollywood icon. I don’t think I am even two percent of what he is. You seem to be collecting a bag of controversies lately. What’s this about your fight with Arshad Warsi? Believe me all these are non-existent problems. They are totally incorrect. I have never spoken against Arshad and nor has he spoken against me. I really do not know why and how these stories got spread around. Frankly I dislike controversies. I like to get on with everyone. I really have no issues. And your argument with Salman Khan on the World Tour? Are you going to deny that too? I am being honest when I say that I have problems with no one. I

never speak against anyone either. I am not an insecure person. I want to survive with goodwill in this industry. I get upset when people write incorrect things about me. I love acting and I am grateful to this industry for giving me this chance. I enjoy what I’m doing. I want my films to be inspirational. So what are the films we should look forward to? I want people to see No Smoking, Aashayein and Goal and get entertained and enlightened. Where do you see yourself in the next five years? I would like to do a little more on the international films front. Do something that is appreciated by an overseas audience too. I do not just mean overseas Indians. But one thing is clear-- the Hindi film industry is where my home is. I am never going to alienate that. That is where I get my bread and butter; respect and love from. Do you think your general inaccessibility fuels such stories? A: It’s true I’m inaccessible to the media when I’m shooting abroad. So I’m sure the stories come from those who are accessible from abroad. You know what I mean? When I’m consumed by work I don’t like to focus on other things. Even Bipasha Basu was dragged into your supposed fight with Arshad. Bipasha is a woman of substance. Everything is black or white for her. We are straight, honest and clean. That’s all I want to say about this.

“I BELIEVE IN GRABBING GOOD

OPPORTUNITIES!” Hannsikka was first seen as a child artiste in the super hit Hrithik Roshan starrer Koi… Mil Gaya. But her claim to fame is the recent hit film Aap Kaa Surroor opposite music composer-turned- singer-turned-actor Himesh Reshammiya. She has acted in the Telugu film Desamuduru opposite Allu Arjun. In TV serials like Shakalaka Boom Boom, Hum 2 Hain Na, Des Mein Nikla Hoga Chand, Zee TV’s Tum Bin. Her famous commercials were Samsung Electronics, Bournvita, Pepsi and the Hyundai Santro advertisement with Shah Rukh Khan. Here we talk to the young lady who’s known to her family and friends as Hansu! You must have been thrilled when Aap Ka Suroor became such a super hit. Oh, it felt soooo good. I always prayed that my launch would be a success and it was. The reviews were also so encouraging. It feels terrific when the audience accepts you so whole heartedly. Himesh Reshammiya is in the top line of stars today. How was it romancing a guy much older to you? I would say it was great fun working with him; I really enjoyed it. It was quite simple actually. There was no feeling of awkwardness as I am an actor and when facing the camera I become the character I am playing. I ceased to be Hannsikka and became the character, Riia. It was a great experience working with Himesh, he has no ego and no issues. The only thing that bothered me while shooting in Germany was the cold! Are you superstitious—is that why you changed the spelling of your name? Himeshji advised me to change the spelling from Hansika to Hannsikaa. He said it would help me in my career. I changed it without questioning him and now I am glad because my debut has certainly made an impact. What about future films? Himesh, we hear is making a sequel. Will you be a part of it? I don’t know, it all depends on Himeshji. I really cannot talk about the other films that I have signed because I strictly believe in first, working and second, less speaking. Yes I have signed on two films and at present I am shooting for one of them in Chennai. It’s

a Hindi film. There have been many offers but my mother wants me to only settle for good scripts and banners. Do you believe in destiny? You’re a successful heroine at a very young age. I believe in grabbing good opportunities! I started my acting career at a very young age and always wanted to be where I am now. The right opportunity has already come my way. Also young age works to your advantage; you have time on your side. Who discovered you for Aap Ka Suroor? The director, Prashant Chadha’s sister Rupa Chadha, happened to meet me. It was she who narrated the script to me and I liked it a lot. So we decided to go ahead with it and that’s how Aap Ka Suroor happened. You are doing a fine balancing act between studies and films. Yes I am! I’m still doing my A levels from Poddar International High School, Mumbai. At present my subjects are economics, business studies and arts. I am able to balance things because my family and my friends are all very supportive. Even my school is. You were also a child artiste. So, does that work in your favour? Yes, it does help as far as being more comfortable facing the camera. But to establish yourself in this industry you have to work very hard. It’s your talent and hard work which will determine what you make of yourself as an actor.

“I DO THINGS

SPONTANEOUSLY, IF THE SCRIPT IS EXCITING AND MAKERS ARE GOOD

I TAKE IT ON”

Kunal Khemu is thrilled to play host to the Indian American Achiever’s Awards in Washington. He has replaced Saif Ali Khan in U Me Aur Hum, directed by Ajay Devgan and starring Kajol. Next is Jai Veeru an action-comedy with co-star Fardeen Khan produced by Shyam Bajaj. He is also set to star in Rohit Jugraj’s yet untitled film with Tulip Joshi and Aushima Sawhney. This year seems to be quite promising for Kunal. You seem to be ecstatic about hosting the IAA Awards ? At the point of time when I was totally focused on my career I got this prestigious opportunity to anchor a live event. I am very excited playing host to the Indian American Achiever’s Awards 2007 at the John F. Kennedy Centre for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. I accepted the proposal even though they approached me at the last moment because there will be very important personalities present. The distinguished guests are Shah Rukh Khan, Subhash Chandra, Bill Gates, Rupert Murdoch, Richard Geri and many more. I recall the last time I had anchored an event was when I was in college. How come you signed Dhal? And what was your experience doing such a different role? Being a funny film, it was fun shooting for Dhal. Comedy is what people always enjoy. My earlier films were intense and dark so I thought of doing something different. I signed Dhal to change my set image of a serious actor. We play these guys who you see in your day to day life, normal college kids, who have completed their studies, stay together and are applying for jobs. That’s where the suspense begins. It’s a comedy of errors about how these guys are trying to do good for people and they land up in trouble themselves. I think people will understand the film when they see it. It’s truly a fun film. How was the working experience? Working for Dhal was easier because Sharman, Tussah and Rappel are a humorous and fun lot. Being a comedy we kept on trying to improvise and were laughing all the time. Comedy is not something in which only one actor has to be a good. Everybody has to be witty around you because it’s all about give and take. There has to be action and reaction. Only if I react to something

said in the proper way will that punch come out and sound funny. Shooting for the film was like one big picnic. How do you feel being one of the few newcomers who got to do solo lead roles at the beginning of your career? I am happy that the people have trust in me and have been generous towards me. There has to be a confidence in the distributors, producers and the filmmakers to give those solo hero films. It also adds to my confidence and I try to give my 100 per cent so that I can do justice and never let them down. How do you select your films? I do things spontaneously, if the script is exciting and makers are good I take it on. I don’t do too much of research or go deep into the character. I need to understand the shades of the role. Once that is clear then the actor should allow the director to guide him through the story. Having worked with two top directors Mahesh Bhatt and Madhur Bhandarkar, who do you think make more realistic cinema? There is an immense difference in both directors. Bhatt saab looks more towards relationships, emotions and an intimate story line, Madhur looks at the larger perception of life and takes on current issues in his films. You were all praise for Madhur Bhandarkar during the filming of Traffic Signal. He tends to repeat his favourite actors. Why were you not cast in Fashion? It has nothing to do with liking an actor. Films are a director’s medium, so Madhur knows how his characters need to look, and he knows who he has to cast. If he doesn’t see me in any of his characters then he will not cast me. If I listen to a script and don’t want to do it, I won’t. It has nothing to do with favoritism.

Controversy

Tired of shamelessly copying Hollywood films, Bollywood directors have now invented a new trend – REMAKING OLD CLASSICS! Unluckily, till now, Farhan Akhtar (who, incidentally, started this trend) has been the only one to at least salvage himself at the box-office with Don. As for other remade films, they’ve been virtual box-office disasters! Maybe a dose of creative writers is what Bollywood needs right now! Here’s a look at why these films didn’t quite hit the marquee lights but hit a dead end!

NO JAAN IN THIS

UMRAO! FILM: UMRAO JAAN (2006) directed by J P Dutta

REMAKE OF: UMRAO JAAN (1983) directed by Muzaffar Ali

REMAKE

OR RE-BREAK? With 200 million at his disposal it’s a pity that all J P Dutta could produce was 2006’s box-office debacle Umrao Jaan. Director Muzaffar Ali’s 1981 film Umrao Jaan broke all records. It also won its lead actress Rekha her first and only National Award but J P’s film only got criticism and cynicism for leading lady Aishwarya Rai. If Rekha’s Umrao was strong and sensitive, Ash’s Umrao is weak, feeble and at the mercy of the men. The original Umrao Jaan had powerful performers like Rekha, Farooque Sheikh, Naseeruddin Shah, Shaukat Azmi and Raj Babbar to boast of. Though the new Umrao Jaan had a cast of numbers: Aishwarya, Abhishek Bachchan, Suniel Shetty, Shabana Azmi, it turned out a damp squib. Abhishek is convincing as the Nawab Sahab but sadly, J P hasn’t been able to bring out the best in him. Shabana Azmi (filling the role her mother Shaukat performed in the original) lived up to her name and like always, gave a remarkable performance. Suniel Shetty, as the evil and lecherous dacoit is passable. While Purru Raj Kumar, Divya Dutta and Ayesha Jhulka don’t have much to do in the film, they do lend able support. Aishwarya looks ethereal, thanks to designer Anna Singh

and Bindiya Goswami but that’s about it. Her performance is nothing to boast of. To make matters worse she and onand-off-screen lover Abhishek, shared no chemistry, let alone passion. It was during the shooting of this film that the two fell in love but unfortunately, they couldn’t translate this on screen. Muzaffar Ali’s Umrao Jaan had the glamorous Rekha opposite the unconventionally good looking Farooque Shaikh. They worked wonders and left the audience touched. J P’s film mainly failed due to a weak script, while the original film was the story of a simple Lucknow based girl Ameeran and her transformation into a popular nautch girl, Umrao Jaan, and her struggles. J P’s film comes across as a nautch girl’s love story and that too, a boring one. Anu Mallik’s music lacks freshness and melody whereas the old film boasted of great music and even won Asha Bhonsale a National Award. In fact, Mallik’s music further slows the pace of the film. Perhaps J P should go back to what he does best, directing war films.

ALL SMOKE NO FIRE! Ramu’s version of Sholay was jinxed from day one. He got into trouble with Ramesh Sippy’s nephew Sascha Sippy who claimed that the legal rights of the title Sholay was with him. Sascha dragged Ramu to court and following the court’s ruling Ramu had to rename his film Ram Gopal Varma Ki Aag. The 1975 Sholay became a cult film because it talked about friendship, love and more importantly, the victory of good over evil. Remove Jai and Veeru’s friendship and camaraderie from Sholay… Or minus Basanti and Veeru’s love story… Or do away with Gabbar’s dialogues… What do you have? Nothing! This is the problem with Ramu’s Aag. The characters of Raj and Heero played by Prashant Raj Sachdev and Ajay Devgan, look like they are in wonderland and lack camaraderie. Ramu’s casting skills seem to have gone haywire or did he select his lead actors by a lucky draw? How else can he justify casting Nisha Kothari as Ghungroo and Ajay Devgan as Heero? They could probably win 2007’s most unromantic on-screen couple. This, in stark contrast to

FILM: RAM GOPAL VARMA KI AAG (2007) directed by Ram Gopal Varma

REMAKE OF: SHOLAY (1975) directed by Ramesh Sippy

the terrific chemistry shared by on-screen couple Hema Malini as Basanti and Dharmendra as Veeru in the original Sholay. Sushmita Sen as Durga, played by Jaya Bachchan in the original, doesn’t have much to do apart from donning black clothes, looking depressed and occasionally letting out a few shrieks. Newcomer Prashant Raj Sachdev, who essays the role of Raj, tries hard to impress in a half-baked role. One wonders why Ramu cast popular South Indian actor Mohanlal to play Narsimha in a largely North Indian film. Amitabh Bachchan as Baban hogs the scene but the magic of Amjad’s Gabbar is missing! There’s no freshness to his act and all this because of a badly written script. The Sholay of 1975 gave equal footage to all its stars, everyone had something meaningful to do in it but this film has just Amitabh. It is actually the story of a psychotic gangster Baban. Amitabh has often confessed that Gabbar was his dream role and it appears as if Ramu made this film just to fulfill Amitabh’s dream.

The only relief in the film is Urmila’s item number, which is sadly marred by Abhishek Bachchan’s presence who seems to be suffering from the aftermath of Bluffmaster. Of course there’s no way you can compare Urmila’s number to the magic of Helen and ‘Mehbooba’ in Sholay! Had Ramu stuck to the original film perhaps he could have saved himself from the scathing remarks of the critics as well as the ire of his fans: they’ve re-dubbed his film Ram Gopal’s Ugh!

ALL STYLE NO

FIZZ!

Farhan Akhtar kick-started the trend of remaking old classics with his stylized adaptation of Chandra Barot’s cult film Don (1978), which had Amitabh playing a double role, one as the dreaded gangster Don and the other, a simpleton, Vijay. While Big B’s position is irreplaceable, Farhan took on this as a challenge and cast Shah Rukh Khan in the lead role. Unlike Ramu though, Farhan didn’t deviate much from the original film script except for a few minor changes. Farhan’s casting was impeccable; Priyanka Chopra fitted the bill of Zeenat Aman’s role of Roma and Boman Irani as the diligent cop D’Silva played by Ifthekar in the original. The only exception was the casting of Arjun Rampal as Jasjit, played by Pran in the original film. Shah Rukh ably pulled off the double role act, though he was better as the scary Don. His portrayal of the pan-chewing village bumpkin Vijay appeared a little over the top. Of the two actresses, Priyanka Chopra as Roma is a revelation and has done a commendable job whereas all Isha Koppikar (Leena Das played the original) does is sip martinis by the poolside. Unlike in the original film where the cop, D’Silva, had just a passing reference, the new Don gives Boman Irani ample scope to perform and he has made good use of this. Arjun 66

FILM: DON: THE CHASE BEGINS (2006) directed by Farhan Akhtar

REMAKE OF: DON (1978) directed by Chandra Barot

Rampal has nothing new to add to the film. Kareena’s item number (Helen’s original) was good but whatever happened to her dress sense? The paunch and ugly thigh show in the gold outfit could have been avoided. On the whole, the new Don is more stylish and sophisticated and that’s about it. It lacks the fast pace and racy screenplay of the original. Despite the fact that Javed Akhtar, Farhan’s father, has written the screenplay of both the films. Javed along with Salim Khan wrote the script and screenplay of the original Don. The film looks more like a collage of different events plastered together. Don did not live up to the expectations but luckily did good business at the box-office, more so overseas, thanks to Shah Rukh Khan’s public relation skills. Now one hears Farhan is making a sequel to his Don, we hope one gets to see some innovation in this film.

DON’T TAKE THIS

VICTORIA!

FILM: VICTORIA NO.203

(2007) directed by Ananth Narayan Mahadevan

REMAKE OF: VICTORIA NO.203 (1972) directed by Brij Sadanah Seems like the bug of remaking old classics bit Kamal Sadanah too and he decided to produce and act in the remake of late dad Brij Sadanah’s cult comedy film Victoria No 203. If the original Victoria left you laughing and wanting more the modern Victoria only leaves you with a headache. In the original film, veteran actors Ashok Kumar and Pran played the central characters of Raja and Rana, two small time crooks in search of diamonds hidden in a horse carriage or a Victoria with the number 203. Saira Banu and Navin Nischol provided for a hit pair at the box-office, adding to the film’s success. In the latest version, Anupam Kher and Om Puri play Raja and Rana. Both actors have excelled in their parts though Kher seems to have gone a little over the top in some funny scenes. Jimmy Shergill essays the role of Jimmy Joseph; he tries hard

but doesn’t match up to the innocence and honesty of Navin Nischol’s character in the original film. Soniya Mehra as the driver of the Victoria, wherein the diamonds are hidden fails to impress. She’s got the looks, but in terms of acting she has a long way to go. Also, the comparisons to Saira Banu’s original performance are bound to bring comparison. The less said about the remaining hotch-potch cast including Preity Jhangiani, Tora Khasgir and Javed Jaffery the better. Kamal Sadanah too has tried to gain a re-entry into this film as a goon hired to get the diamonds from Sara’s carriage; well if this is Kamal’s idea of a comeback then he had better re-think. The only good thing about this film is the first 30 minutes, where the diamonds get robbed. The scene is racy and well balanced by the director but sadly, after this, he loses the plot. The later half of the film suffers from a disjointed script, poor editing and badly written dialogues. The comic sequences look forced upon and are even irritating at times.

In The Picture

SONIA MEHRA 68

Having just made her debut in Kamal Sadanah’s Victoria No.203, Sonia Mehra went on to try her hand at ramp walking! Designer Renu Tandon selected Sonia to be her show stopper for the recent Wills Fashion Week on September 7, the fourth day, amongst professionals like Lara Dutta, Kangana Ranaut and Amrita Arora. Her outfit comprised 12 different fabrics sewn together and Sonia says, “”Initially, I was a bag of nerves… But the moment I took my first step on that ramp, I don’t know where the confidence came from and I walked the whole length!” Having even appeared in 70mm prior to this Sonia smiles, “I felt like a grand princess!” And what about more films? “I’ve been getting really good offers. Let’s just say that I’m on the brink of announcing a really good project.” Her dream directors are Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Karan Johar. “I definitely hope to work with them one day. And I would also like to do some serious cinema later on, since I’m a trained actress from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts, London.” For film idols she has Madhuri, Sridevi and Rani Mukherji. “I hope I can be like them one day.” As for the male side of things, there’s just no question of Sonia’s favourite! “Hrithik Roshan is definitely number one on my list! Not just as an actor but also because he’s a dancer and I am one too.” Besides learning Indian dancing, she’s trained in ballet, jazz and even belly dancing! Well, Sonia already has a precedent set for her in Bollywood – her late father, Bollywood’s much loved Vinod Mehra…

Passion play

Sonam Kapoor and Ranbir are the much awaited hot screen passion, with Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Saawariya! We caught them for a tête-àtête just before they become public property altogether… Here are till now UNREVEALED FACTS from these young bloods!

Passion y a l P

RANBIR KAPOOR Saawariya nerves: Right now, I’m quite blank actually… I’ve had no time to think about how the film will fare, since we’ve come off exhaustive shooting schedules. So before all the noise starts, I guess I’m just enjoying the free time right now! Privacy loss: Yes it does scare me somewhat. I love doing normal stuff with my friends and going where I want to. I guess I can still do that but I may be watched and judged all the time. That’s a real scary thought right now but I’m going to continue to live my life the way I want to. Sonam Kapoor means: Sonam doesn’t hesitate to speak her mind. She’s just so uncomplicated and honest! I wish I could be like her – she’s one of my best friends. Honest like mum Neetu: Well yes, mum’s that way. But I’m more of an introvert, a closed person… I don’t really speak my heart out to anyone. I also reserve my judgment and would rather remain silent than be a liar or a hypocrite in a situation. Unforgettable assisting in Black: Yes, I was a stand-in for Mr. Bachchan in the very long shots, costume and all. And if you’ve seen the film, I’m talking of the introductory scene where he’s seated near the fountain (that was me!). Rani was supposed to come and jump on him and being so spontaneous, she really jumped. I was taken off guard and fell, revealing myself to the camera instead of just

Turn-on people: I like honest people, those with a sense of humour who can also laugh at themselves. I like comfortable people – so I can be comfortable and myself with them. I also like sensitive, understanding people. I can really click with them because they’re aware of the needs of and are sensitive to other people. Turn-off people: I don’t like fake people. People who feel they have to put on a face all the time. It’s much nicer to be honest, even if you don’t like something, say it… Fun things: I love watching films. Nobody recognizes me so I enjoy going to the theatres with a large group of friends and hanging out with them. Fashion means:

SONAM KAPOOR

Well I do love beautiful things which I pick up all the time. But I am a little spaced out and all over the place when it comes to putting things together. I wear everything from Indian to western. I love Juicy Couture and have all their track pants in all the colours. I also like Uggs for shoes, since they’re very comfortable. But since they have fleece shoes I can’t wear them in Mumbai, so I wait to go abroad to do so. Ranbir’s best qualities:

The Sonam secrecy in Saawariya: There’s nothing like that… It’s not that I wasn’t allowed to do anything but Mr. Bhansali requested us to keep quiet about the film. For me not being in the public eye wasn’t new. My dad has anyway always kept us kids away from the Press. I have never attended parties earlier so I’ve never known any different. I’ve always minded my own business. You don’t need to tell the world everything. Even about the film, what was there to say until it was complete? Yes, I agree that you have to make people aware of the product you’re selling but till it’s ready, what’s the need to talk? In any case, I was working 12hour days so all I wanted to do when I got home was sleep! Fun film experiences: Actually, there were so many; everything was really funny! Like we were doing the introductory song; Ranbir was standing on a boat and I was supposed to go towards him. But I reacted two minutes later because he almost fell off the boat! Then we had a scene where I’m running away and have to look back. In doing this, I’d always slam straight into the wall and hurt my face! I’m the biggest klutz going so… Birthday on the sets: Yes, that was my 21st birthday on June 9. At first I was like, what am I doing working on this day? But it turned out to be the most beautiful birthday when all of my family and friends came to the sets; everyone from the set came to my chalet in Karjat to wish me… My costume designer, Anuradha, who I’m really close to was there as well dressing me up… It was just so special.

Well I respect him a lot. I would like to say this for the first time – I think he’s going to be extremely successful in films because he’s first a wonderful human being. He’s very down to earth just like his mom. And he has the sensitive and emotional side of his dad. He’s very spontaneous. I know I can call him at four in the morning if I need help and he’ll be there. Her Anil Kapoor films: Mr. India – a real kiddy film which I’ve seen about a thousand times! But one of his best performances was in Pukar. Besides him being my dad, I think he’s the best actor there is and he hasn’t yet got his due. Every day I pray that he gets what he deserves. Eating means: I love, love, love to eat and especially junk food! Right now I have to work out and stuff so I’m on protein shakes… But give me pao-bhaji anytime, it’s my favourite food. I also love gulab jamuns, pizza, my daadi’s khaana and my naani’s Sindhi curry. And chocolates! Actually I’m lucky – being half Punjabi and half Sindhi, I get the best of both cuisines! Cousin Arjun Boney Kapoor: Arjun’s in my house practically every day! Since we’re of the same age, we’re very close. From my mum’s side it’s all non-filmi family, so Arjun and I are the only two filmi people! We have many common friends too. He’s assisted his dad (Boney Kapoor) in films and is interested in the production and direction side. The only thing he tells me is ‘If I have to read a script to you, you have to do this film’. And I laugh and tell him, ‘First you read me the script’!

my back! That’s when Mr. Bhansali took me to a corner and said, ‘You’re an actor, you have to be in control of your body no matter what happens’. I learnt an important lesson that day.

doesn’t give you space and is always on your head. I like lots of breathing space and to be left alone to do the things I want to. Also someone who lies or is hypocritical puts me off.

Turn-on people:

Life’s best experience:

I appreciate genuine, good human beings. I like honest people. It’s very important to be honest – maybe I haven’t reached there yet – but that’s what I would like to be.

I don’t think I’ve lived that long to decide. I don’t want to be content – don’t want to sit down and appreciate life as yet… I think I have a long way to go!

Turn-off people: I don’t really dislike people but yes, I don’t like someone who

Spotlight

Sa Re Ga Ma Pa

– Singing all theway to the top What makes a show superior to the others? Actually it’s a mix of the three necessary ingredients- content, presentation and viewership, that make a show what it is. And if all these factors are taken into account, either individually or collectively, the one show that would win hands down on Indian television currently is Hero Honda Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Challenge 2007 on Zee TV. It was the Challenge 2005 leg of the show that took the oldest show on Zee to another level altogether. Old Zee protégée Gajendra Singh initiated the show, way back in 1995 and he served as the director-producer for almost 12 years. Despite Singh’s sudden departure from the channel, the show has gone on, and how! The show is a winner as it consistently throws up surprises in the form of raw talent. This season showcases some of the most gifted singers of the sub-continent, belting out popular hits, and sometimes, songs we have never heard. The panel of veteran music directors, who have taken upon themselves to assess and encourage these young aspirants in the latest version - Challenge 2007 Sangeet ka pratham vishwa-yudh, are Ismail Darbar, Bappi Lahiri, Himesh Reshammiya and Vishal-Shekhar. These judges also act as mentors to the contestants, who make their way into the contest from all over the world. These competitors are placed in the various gharanas – Yalgaar, Josh, Rock and Hit – led by the music directors. Punit Goenka, Business Head, Zee Television, says that it was necessary to raise the bar after Challenge 2005 and ‘Lil Champs. The programme picked talent from six countries, justifying the sub-title, Sangeet ka pratham vishwa-yudh. Mr Goenka further adds, “I firmly believe music binds the world, moves across borders. And not only on paper, we have seen it happen in Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Challenge 2007, too. The participants are a prime example of talent not being hampered by geographical borders, of talent not having a religion.” And, of course, the unique format of the show continues to captivate the audience.

There were 32 participants initially, all placed under the guidance of the maestros. Unlike the last time, the decision-making process is shared equally between the judges and the viewers. This should keep both the contestant and the audience happy. The show is not just about young singers. The anchor plays a very important role, too. This season, Aditya Narayan, child artiste and Udit Narayan’s son, is in the limelight. He has had to fill some big shoes – Sonu Nigam and Shaan were the previous anchors of the show. “I do not have to worry when professionals are guiding me. Moreover, I am learning with time,” Aditya says, smiling confidently. “Still, the bar was raised even higher because I had to fill the void left by Sonu Nigam and Shaan.” Of course, this will also provide a platform for Aditya to hone his singing abilities, and maybe he will make a mark in the industry, just like his father. The celebrity guests only add glamour to the show. From Salman Khan, Lara Dutta, Anubhav Sinha, Dia Mirza, Vidya Balan, Shamita Shetty to Akshay Kumar, Sajid Khan and Laloo Prasad Yadav– all of them have had a blast in the episodes, and provided the much-needed boost to young talent. Riteish Deshmukh, once invited to the show, admitted, “I am a big fan of this show, and so is my dad.” The range of themes that these young singers take on varies from patriotic songs to current hits. And then, of course, there is the studio audience, that makes as much a spectacle of themselves as the singers. Thanks to the talent, emotions and music, ‘Sa Re Ga Ma Pa’ is the top show across all general entertainment channels. People are already looking forward to the next season. And not only that, the show is also helping Zee TV reclaiming its top position putting Star Plus behind it in the number game. With time, the reputation of the show is steadily increasing. The crescendo will pave the path for another season of “Sa Re Ga Ma Pa”, which will be yet another melting pot of talents, emotions and music. Amen! BY SAMPURN

Out and About Gulf Pulse crosses the 100 episode mark! Zee TV celebrated 100 episodes of its popular current affairs show, Gulf Pulse, recently, amidst an air of fanfare and jubilation. The programme first went to air on 7th October 2005, and rapidly grew into one of the channel’s flagship shows, with 100% local and original content. Completing the 100 episode milestone, also gives it the distinction of being the longest-running, locally-produced, Asian show. Manoj Mathew, VP – Marketing and Corporate Communications, Real Media-Zee Network, explained: “When we started out in 2005, we had a clear objective in mind. We wanted to create a show that would be a shining example of the channel’s larger goal of producing high-quality, customized shows for Middle Eastern

audiences. The success of Gulf Pulse has exceeded our expectations”. Gulf Pulse airs every Friday at 1:30 p.m.. Each episode consists of 3 segments which are designed to highlight the most interesting and exciting events of the previous week and to give sneak previews of the most anticipated activities for the upcoming week. The woman partly responsible for the success of Gulf Pulse is its glamorous and dynamic anchor, Bhavna Radhakrishnan. With a longstanding career in television, Bhavna is no stranger to fame and lends a touch of intellectual poise to the programme with her nuanced analysis of breaking stories. Covering topics as diverse as tourism, ecology, real estate, business, currency, national politics, fashion, and local infrastructure, Bhavna gives Zee TV’s Middle East audiences, the most concise and informative summary of events to watch out for. Speaking about the show, Rajeev Kheror, Creative and Programming Head, Zee TV Middle East, said: “No doubt, Bhavna is a great attribute for the show. In addition, we have a great production and research team that works diligently to ensure that each new-story is authentic, objective, and factually correct. The show’s producer, Jacqueline Chinhauching, deserves special praise in this regard. Together, we try and put together a show that the channel can be proud of. The growing fan following of the Gulf Pulse tells us that we are doing things right!”.

Successful UAE show goes to air in UK

Habitat, Zee TV’ s property and lifestyle show is now available on Zee TV, UK beam After its immensely successful debut in the UAE, Dubai-based property and lifestyle show, Habitat, is now aired in the UK, from August 12th, in response to popular demand. The prime-time show on Zee TV, covers everything related to property and lifestyle in the Middle East, from design trends to construction elements to home finance options. The programme was introduced in the Middle East as part of Zee TV’s local programming for the region. Commenting on the induction of the show for UK audiences, Rajeev Kheror, Creative and Programming Head, Zee TV Middle East, said: “Habitat maintains a global perspective of local property and lifestyle issues in the Middle East. A huge amount of Asian audiences in the UK have a growing interest in freehold property investments and Asian living habits of this region. Habitat will satisfy this need for the international audience, and in the coming future, showcase UK real estate developments and lifestyles in the program.” Additionally, Habitat’s slick format, sharp research, and state-of-the-art production team have made the demand for the programme even higher. Habitat will be aired in the UK every Sunday at 10pm with repeat shows aired at 8:30 am, also on Sundays. In total, the programme will reach more than 200,000 South Asian households across the UK. Manoj Mathew, VP-Marketing & Corporate Communications, Real Media-Zee Network, said: “Habitat is one of our latest and most successful concepts for local programming in the Middle East. The show is committed to giving audiences the true picture of the booming property sector and we feature some of the most prestigious and premium properties on the show. We have also introduced special interactive promotions to further benefit our audiences”. With the shows successful new promotion in alliance with the leading Real Estate Developer - Profile Group, Narendra Bhudai a lucky viewer has just won a whopping 1 Million Air Miles after entering Zee TV’s promotion exclusively on the Habitat show.

MUMBAI WITNESSES A STAR STUDDED WEDDING EVENT! The recently concluded wedding of the month in Mumbai between Aarti Jethwani daughter of Dubai based businessman Raju T Jethwani, Chairman of the Eurostar Group and Mahesh Merani son of Hyderabad based businessman Dharmu Merani on August 26th, 2007 was a glittering event held with plenty of pomp and poise. The wedding was well attended by various famous personalities, which made the event quite extraordinaire. One such personality, a close family friend of Mr. Raju

T Jethwani was 2007 Miss Arabia, who flew into Mumbai to grace the wedding. The Guinness World Record holder for the longest hair (female) Ms. Xie Qiuping with her locks, measuring almost 18feet, also lent glitter to this star studded function. Adding to the glamour were other celebrities like Adnan Sami, the current No.1 indie pop star entertained the guests with his magical and mystical baritones. Bollywood siren Koena Mitra and troupe sizzled the dance floor with her choreographed dance sequences. Music by India’s No 1 disc jockey - DJ Suketu stole the air.

Al Habtoor Motors launches the All-new Mitsubishi Outlander 2008 An ultimate crossover SUV

Unleashing a never before power, Mitsubishi has redefined Outlander from an entry-level Sports Utility Vehicle to an ultimate crossover SUV. Challenging an increasingly crowded segment with design, technology and features, the new Mitsubishi Outlander 2008 rises above as a no-compromise solution for altogether different type of a recreational vehicle. A great companion on the road, the new Outlander meets the highly diversified needs expected from an SUV by providing a new sense of added values to the essential core. All Wheel Control drive-train, 4-wheel independent suspension, high performance brakes and low center of gravity of the new Outlander promises greater passenger car-like levels of driving pleasure and active safety. Shedding its curvy body shape, it joins the rough and

tough line-up of off-roaders with its newly acquired masculine curves and sleeker body. Space is in abundance for the new Outlander. Its flexible seat arrangement with convenient one-touch-tumbling 2nd-row seats offer comfortable cabin and versatile luggage accommodation. Treating occupants to greater luxury and comfort, the new Outlander features knitted leather seats, seat heater and driver’s 4-way power seat. The stylish center panel is unique to Outlander with digital quartz clock, 6-CD changer & AM/FM controls, and headphone & video jacks. The Rockford Fosgate Audio completes the high quality entertainment system. Powered by a 3.0-liter 24-valve MIVEC V6 engine, paddle shifters, Sports Mode 6-speed A/T, electronically controlled on-demand 4WD with 2WD, 4WD and 4WD Lock modes, the new Outlander promises an exhilarating performance on meandering city roads, highways as well as on off-road terrains. For meeting the needs of a wider category of customers who expects economy while retaining the thrill of the SUV, Mitsubishi has yet another model of Outlander that’s powered by a 2.4-litre DOHC 16-valve MIVEC engine. The new Outlander is packed with safety features like ABS, EBD and RISE body structure. The new Outlander releases Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on hard braking and on slippery roads to prevent wheel lock and maintain steering control and the Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) evenly distributes the braking force to the rear wheels. Besides all these the intelligent feature Active Stability Control – ASC, identifies unstable movement of the vehicle and stabilizes it by controlling brakes and governing its engine output. The ASC system utilizes the onboard sensors to compare driver operation with actual vehicle direction and thus assures added safety to occupants as well as the luggage.

Down memory lane

SAIRA-DILIP

THEIR ROMANCE DOWN MEMORY LANE 80

ow did a teenager in England, land up having a crush on Bollywood’s reigning superstar Dilip Kumar? “My parents were very fond of Indian cinema and I too got interested in it. We would receive film glossies from our extended family in India. When I saw his pictures in a film magazine I was only 12. But I had decided that if I ever marry this would be the man!” says Sairaji with a glint of mischief in her eye. On a trip to India as a teenager her sole aim was to see Dilip Kumar just once. Like hordes of other fans she too rushed to where he was shooting, “He was probably waiting for someone at the studio door. Dressed in a casual patloon and kameez he looked amazing and I just fell all the more for him!” exclaims Sairaji. Slowly she made her foray into films and had her first huge hit, Junglee, when she was just 16years-old. But all this didn’t matter to her as she wanted to star opposite the man about whom she had only dreamt of, but he seemed to avoid her. Despite producers offering him big budget films opposite her he was turning them down. “I thought to myself, he maybe Dilip Kumar and avoid doing films with me but I am not going to take his attitude!” says Sairaji with a wink. So when she came face to face with him at his film’s trial she told him point blank, “I hated the film and I’m sure it will flop!”

This didn’t go down well with Dilipsaab and years later he rejected her from Ram Aur Shyam, a film she desperately wanted to do. “When I met her for the first time she was very rude to me, so I thought that she was immature and childish. The character in this film required a much more mature girl,” Dilipsaab explains. They may have begun on a rocky path but as they say time and fate has its own plans. Defying age barriers, he was 44 and she was 22 when they tied the knot in October 1966. It was the most talked about and high profile marriage of the year! Over the years their love has been a living example to other couples in an industry where relationships are made and broken very easily. “Understanding where the other person comes from and giving your relationship time is the key to a successful relationship!” musses Dilipsaab. What is the best thing about Dilipsaab, and pat comes the reply from Sairaji, “Despite being a superstar and owning massive amounts of land he chose to live with me so that I could be close to my grandmother and my mother, who are very important to me. That decision of his really touched my heart!” Last year they celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary but if you look at them today they still come across as a newly wed couple teasing and joking with each other. They are always seen together at social gatherings enjoying themselves with the gusto and enthusiasm of teenagers, “One should be young at heart. Love has got nothing do with age!” Sairaji concludes.

Star Gazing

Amitabh Bachchan(Libra)

The Big B of Bollywood is heading for his retirement. Mercury period of 17 years is going to end next month and Ketu period of 7 years will start. Ketu a separate planet will be responsible for his retirement. Ketu will enhance his spirituality and he will opt for less prominent roles. He needs to take care of his health. He will be blessed with grandchild. The legend beyond comparison will keep on ruling the hear ts of the millions of people across the globe.

Gemini (May 21 - June 20) You may experience mixed effects in your life in the first half of this month. Over expenditure may affect your finances. In the latter half, your actions would be more focused. In case you are willing to take any major decision, you will be able to reach at a firm decision. In the last week, you would gain happiness with respect to achievements of your children.

Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21) You would be able to rise above your competitors. There will be victory and you will lead others. Second half of this month would however create troubles in personal life. Try to avoid arguments or any kind of conflicts with others. Please keep a control on your emotions. Otherwise it may land you in a trouble. Last week of this month would be good for financial gains.

Stars: Amisha Patel, Shilpa Shetty, Dimple Kapadia

Stars: Govinda, Arbaaz Khan, Dharmendra, John Abraham, Arjun Rampal

Cancer (June 21 - July 22) This month will be a month of mixed influences. Cancerian females are advised to remain very careful about their image. Some false allegation may be put on you. You must remain careful while taking any major decision. In case of young married couples, if planning for a family, the time is supportive for conception of the baby.

Capricorn (December 22 - January 19) You would enjoy life to the fullest in all the aspects of life. For young people, do not propose any one for a new relationship till 8th of this month. After that, the time is supportive for the matters related to love and romance. You would gain success in profession as well as in finances. In the last week of this month, a new opportunity may come your way.

Stars: Karisma Kapoor, Kumar Gaurav, Naseeruddin Shah

Stars: Salman Khan, AR Rahman, Hrithik Roshan, Twinkle Khanna

Leo (July 23 - August 22) First half of month is very good for enjoying position and status at work front. Higher authorities would be very co-operative and supportive this month. In case your promotion is due, there are good chances for getting it. You may receive a number of offers for business partnerships. But, you should adopt a cautious approach while making a choice.

Aquarius (January 20 - February 18) You are advised to move ahead by adopting a cautious approach this month. You are recommended to remain careful regarding your health. Take adequate rest and a balanced diet. You would remain worried regarding the financial aspect of life. There would be problems at relationship front. However, professional life would be smooth.

Stars: Sonu Nigam, Sanjay Dutt, Rajeshwari, Suneil Shetty, Manisha Koirala

Stars: Preity Zinta, Abhishek Bachchan, Bobby Deol, Jackie Shroff, Urmila

Virgo (August 23 - September 22) First half of this month would be little challenging for you. Contrary to that, the latter half will be very good and smooth. You would easily move towards the path of success and there will be development of contacts and links. Monetary benefits would come your way. A piece of advice, please remain very careful while driving a vehicle especially in first half of this month.

Pisces (February 19 - March 20) This would be a progressive month for Pisceans. First half of this month would be very good for professional life and second half would be supportive for personal life. You would enjoy participating in social gatherings. There would be expansion in social contacts and links. During this month, you would be successful in accomplishing responsibility related to offspring.

Stars: Viveik Oberoi, Kareena Kapoor, Akshay Kumar, Mahesh Bhatt

Stars: Aamir Khan, Akshaye Khanna, Pooja Bhatt, Fardeen Khan

Libra (September 23 - October 22)

Complete month would be really challenging for your personal life. Try to remain as much accommodative as you can in order to maintain harmony at domestic front. If you have entered in a new relationship recently, then sustaining that relationship will be really very difficult for you. Try to remain more focused on your professional life.

Aries (March 21 - April 19) Please remain very accommodative in personal life, since you may experience disturbances in personal life till 8th of this month. After 8th, environment will become favourable for your romantic aspect of life. You may also gain success in competitive activities subsequent to 18th of this month. New business partnership or any new venture will materialize after 23rd of this month.

Stars: Yash Chopra, Rekha, Amitabh Bachchan, Hema Malini, Sunny Deol

Stars: Rani Mukherjee, Ajay Devgan, Jaya Bachchan, Arshad Warsi

Scorpio (October 23 - November 21) Intellectual thinking would improve your position at work place. You would realize your intellectual capability and would also demonstrate it. In the later half of this month, health would not be very good. Especially, BP patients must properly take care of health. Later half of this month would improve your status and position in society.

Taurus (April 20 - May 20) You will be full of energy and enthusiasm this month. You must take advantage of this positive energy in constructive actions. In case you are an elderly member in a family, you may remain worried about your progeny in the latter half. Especially, in the last week of the month, you should adopt a co-operative behaviour with colleagues at work place.

Stars: Raveena Tandon, Aishwarya Rai, Shah Rukh Khan, Sushmita Sen, Tabu

Stars: Bipasha Basu, Madhuri Dixit, Pooja Bedi, Kamal Hassan

Star Gazing is brought to you by Sundeep Koachar, an internationally acclaimed celebrity astrologer based in Delhi. Sundeep treats astrology as a sacred science and not purely as a matter of commercial pursuit. Having studied at AIFAS and Lal Bahadur Shastri Sanskrit Vidhyapeeth, he is currently pursuing M.Phil in the field of astrology. He has had an interest in palmistry right from his childhood days and is quite adept at face reading too. Thanks to his honest answers, using a combination of astrology, palmistry along with the study of the face, Sundeep has a loyal following of celebrity clients including film stars, cricketers, politicians and industrialists. He has made his mark in both the print and the electronic media, having successfully hosted live TV programmes both in India and abroad. For more details about Sundeep log on to www.astro4you.com

Tele-tales Prerna gets pardoned for ‘Kasautii…’

Shweta Tiwari, aka Prerna of Kasautii Zindagi Kay, has been in the news recently for all the wrong reasons. Whether it is the separation from her husband, or her unprofessional behaviour on the set, she is not really the most popular person in the Balaji camp at present. There was talk that she will soon be replaced, since she cannot commit hundred per cent to the show, and using a body double for almost all the scenes compromises on the quality of the show. However, a source close to her insists that these are baseless rumours. The source, on condition of anonymity, said, “Shweta is going through a lot, but is as devoted to the show as she was earlier. In spite of all her problems, she is focused, and we should appreciate her effort.” The source admitted that a body double is used whenever required, but body doubles are used for other actors as well. Apparently, Balaji Telefilms is absolutely willing to adjust to Shweta’s dates and timings. Good for Shweta!

Banoo Main Teri Doctor!!!

Divyanka Tripathi aka Vidya of “Banoo Main Teri Dulhaan” recently turned from saviour on screen to doctor on the sets. Using her knowledge of medicines that she had gained from her pharmacist father, the actress treated her director Ismail Umar Khan who was suffering from viral fever. Divyanka said: “My father has been into pharmacy for 30 years now. I picked up the habit of carrying a first-aid box from my father. Also, I was an NCC cadet during my college days and my father used to tell me that the kit could come in handy in case of any injury. I still follow the practice and regularly carry a

first-aid kit with me to the sets.” For diagnosing her director’s ailment, Divyanka used simple logic. “I noticed our director showing the same symptoms that I had when I was down with viral fever a few days ago. We called up the doctor but he was not coming anytime soon. So I decided to administer him some medicines as I have good knowledge about the subject. I gave him an energy drink called Tango, Paracetamol, an antibiotic, Diclofenac Sodium, Nimecpara and Cobadex,” she rattled off. In about an hour, Khan started feeling better and he broke into a sweat, which indicated that the fever was receding. Then the doctor turned up on the sets, and to everybody’s surprise, he also vouched that the medicines Divyanka had given Khan were correct. “The very next day, the director told me that he was feeling very well. He also appreciated me for my thoughtfulness,” smiled the actress. Since this incident, Divyanka has turned into an in-house pharmacist for the cast and crew of “Banoo Main Teri Dulhaan”, with people trooping in with medical suggestions for minor problems like aches and acidity. However, Divyanka never carries or suggests strong medicines as they should not be administered without being prescribed by a doctor. While most others have successfully tried out Divyanka’s medical tips, lead actor Sharad Malhotra steers clear of her treatment. “Sharad never takes medicines and I never force him to do as even I don’t like taking medicines,” reasoned Divyanka. While the cast and crew have much to learn about medicines from Divyanka, they should also pick up a thing or two about fighting fit without them from Sharad. -

A cut above the Rest Just when you thought that all television actors are prone to either slapping fits or fainting spells, not to mention throwing tantrums and getting paid for it, along comes someone like Sachin Shroff a ka Abhi of ‘Saat Phere’ on Zee TV, whose dedication to his work seems surreal. Sachin, who plays the role of Gyan in Har Ghar Kuch Kehta Hain, cut his finger with a knife while shooting, but decided not to create a fuss till the shot was okayed. By then, his finger was bleeding profusely, and the doctor had to give him three stitches to stop the blood. “It was not exactly an intense scene,” Sachin said later. “I had to gaze adoringly at Aanchal, who plays Siddhi, while cutting vegetables. If I had asked the director to stop then, the shot, which was going extremely well, would have been cancelled.” So he covered his finger and continued with his lines.