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People's expectations are scaring me: Karan Johar (INTERVIEW)
By Subhash K. Jha, Indo-Asian News Service

Mumbai, March 21 (IANS) Ace director Karan Johar says the three months spent in New York shooting for his latest "Kabhi Alvidaa Na Kehna" were the most difficult phase of his life.

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"Those were the toughest three months ever. It was traumatic. There were production problems, locations issues and a hurricane, plus everyone away from home," says the hit maker of films like "Kuch Kuch Hota Hai" and "Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham". 

The film, he says, is about marriage and other man-woman relationships, but is definitely not a remake of "Silsila" as is being made out.

Karan rubbishes rumours about animosity between Rani Mukerji and Preity Zinta on the sets of his film that stars Amitabh Bachchan, his favourite Shah Rukh Khan, whom he describes as "god, my hero and brother", and childhood pal Abhishek Bachchan.

"Problems happen when the navigator is weak. I don't see myself as a weak captain of the ship. Rani and Preity share very little cinema space in my film. And they got along very well. And I mean that... There was no problem." 

Karan describes "Kabhi Alvidaa..." as a Hindi film like any other. "I have just fine-tuned it differently," he told IANS in this interview. 

Excerpts:

Q: Lots of curiosity about your new film?

A: What for? I am just an ordinary director making an ordinary film. I guess the curiosity comes from my making my first film since 2001 after "Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham" (K3G). "Kabhi Alvidaa...", too, has a huge cast. So there will be a certain expectation. 

Films involving Shah Rukh and me are talked about. They have been very successful in the past. People's expectations are scaring me. I am not getting much sleep. But, yes, I have tackled marriage, an institution I am not familiar with. Now that I am 33 and greying, I have stopped seeking the support of hair-dye. I was more than ready to take on a mature theme. 

I was quite tired of being counted among the new generation of filmmakers. I am not young anymore. I am 10 years into the industry, and quite qualified to tackle a mature subject. 

Q: So no research?

A: None. Except emotional research! My cinema is always a result of personal observations. I don't read, listen to current music or run to see every film in town. My education comes from past Hindi cinema and music. I observe strangers, or friends at parties... 

But let me tell you "Kabhi Alvidaa..." is not about real people. It's a complete piece of fiction. It comes from a space I don't know, but understand. I created the characters for various reasons. I hope to God no one connects personally with the characters. 

Q: Most of the film is shot. Does it look as unconventional as people think?

A: I think people will connect as well with this film as they did with K3G and "Kuch Kuch Hota Hai". "Kabhi Alvidaa..." is a human drama. It's about marriages and other man-woman relationships. Last time when I directed, they said it was Yash Uncle's (Yash Chopra) "Kabhi Kabhie". This time I am supposed to be re-making "Silsila". It's also supposed to have elements of the film "Closer". But it's not! 

I admire Yash Chopra more than any filmmaker. That's why I would never dare remake his films. "Silsila" is one of my favourite films. But all of us filmmakers are perfectly capable of doing original work. Don't you think? We just need to apply ourselves. 

Q: So what's "Kabhi Alvidaa..." about?

A: I don't want to say much. Anything I say can and will be held against me. So let's just wait for audiences to see the film and let them form their opinions. All I can say is, it's a Hindi film like any other. I have just fine-tuned it differently. 

Q: Your cast.... Shah Rukh... is he presented differently?

A: Who am I to even try to present him differently? There has never been an actor like him. Personally, for me he is my god, my hero and brother. I don't have to think about how he'll play a character. He does all the thinking on his own. The character comes from my heart. And then Shah Rukh takes over. 

He needs no presentation. His presence is enough. He gives a sub-text, graph and everything that a character needs. He understands what I want from his performance. And he gives that extra bit by himself. I feel I fail Shah Rukh. When will I give him that one film where I'll write a role that would do justice to him? In "Kabhi Alvidaa..." he's done everything on his own. I wrote a simple character. He gave it the right nuances and complexities. 

Q: And Abhishek Bachchan?

A: You know to direct someone whose birthday party you have attended as a child, is an emotional experience. Working with Abhishek is like working with someone I have known all my life. Those birthday parties I attended continue on the sets. For Abhishek shooting is a party. We just have to agree. He is a super-brat. He's a combination of man and child. I think I have captured that quality in "Kabhi Alvidaa..."

Q: And Amit-ji (Amitabh Bachchan)?

A: Just working with him is an honour. I have worked with Lata-ji (Lata Mangeshkar in K3G) and Amit-ji, the two legends. I'd say Amit-ji's character is flamboyant - a very unusual character compared with what he has played so far. And he is looking like a rock star. He's cool in "Alvidaa...".

Q: Your two girls?

A: Rani Mukerji is someone I appreciate for various reasons. I love Rani as a person and a performer. Her "Black" is a landmark performance. I don't think she can ever do it again which is so unfortunate. She stood by me when I was just starting out. And after "Kuch Kuch Hota Hai" she did a special appearance for me in K3G when she was going through a career -low. 

All these years she has been in touch with me nearly every day without expecting anything in return. She's like my kid sister. I feel that much more for her because her love for me is unconditional. That eclipses her other equally important ability as an actor. Her strengths as human being will always be more important to me. Today she's a rock-solid professional. She did everything right to get her character in "Alvidaa..." right.

Q: What about her animosity with Preity?

A: Totally untrue. Problems happen when the navigator is weak. I don't see myself as a weak captain of the ship. Rani and Preity share very little cinema space in my film. And they got along very well. And I mean that... There was no problem. 

Just because there were a whole lot of stars in New York doesn't mean there will be problems. Why can't people understand that? There doesn't have to be a fight if you put two actors and two actresses in the same room. This isn't the Stone Age. Catfights between actresses are passé. Everyone works for the best interests of a film.

Q: How was the New York stint?

A: Let me put it this way... it was the most difficult phase of my life. Those were the toughest three months ever. I thank my cast and crew for seeing me through them. The conditions and crises were tackled, thanks to my on-line producer and my CEO. It was traumatic. There were production problems, locations issues and a hurricane, plus everyone away from home... 

A: Are you and Yash Raj Films joining hands?

Q: We have been together in every way for a long time. I am still structuring my own production house. Yash Raj distributes my films worldwide. To me Dharma and Yash Raj are the one and the same. 
  

Amitabh back under the arc lights
Indo-Asian News Service

Mumbai, March 21 (IANS) Bollywood icon Amitabh Bachchan is back in the studios after four months of being away following an abdominal surgery.

If Monday was spent on the sets of Karan Johar's "Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna" in Mumbai, Tuesday was reserved for makeup man Deepak Sawant's Bhojpuri film "Ganga".

"Amitji worked from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday as he is allowed to work for seven hours. He was comfortable on the sets," Sawant told IANS.

The star plays the role of a Thakur in Sawant's film. 

"The first shot is a surya namaskaar where Amit-ji will appear in white dhoti-kurta, moustache and big bindi on his forehead," said Panu Indramohan, who is looking after the publicity of the film. 

"Eighty percent of the film is over and we are going to shoot for five-six days with Amit-ji. After that the film is going to be complete," he added.

Up next is Ravi Chopra's "Babul" with Rani Mukerji and John Abraham. Bachchan has also given the green signal to Deepa Mehta's "Komagata Maru" and is in discussions with director Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra for a new project. 

According to reports, Bachchan will also make a guest appearance in Gaurang Doshi's science fiction "Happy Birthday" by "Ek Hasina Thi" director Sriram Raghavan.

Clearly, the superstar is already back in the thick of the action. 
 

HBO to air 'Ray'
Indo-Asian News Service

New Delhi, March 21 (IANS) HBO will this week air "Ray", a musical biographical drama on the life of legendary American singer Ray Charles.

Featuring a remarkable performance from Jamie Foxx in the title role, the film to be aired at 9.p.m. March 25 is an inspiring tale of a poor, black and blind boy who went on to reign at the top of the musical charts. 

Ray Charles grew up in the rural south of the US and learned under the tutelage of his tough-love mother to turn his handicaps into assets. 

With this training, Charles eventually won a major deal with Paramount Records and earned an iconic status in the US. Charles's actual recordings are used in the film and Foxx's performance won him BAFTA, Oscar and Golden Globe awards.
 
Get ready for Aishwarya's 'Thande Ka Tadka'
Indo-Asian News Service

New Delhi, March 22 (IANS) Coca-Cola is all set to unleash a new brand campaign titled "Coca-Cola Thande Ka Tadka" with Bollywood diva Aishwarya Rai. 

The campaign, featuring different ads, will go full steam ahead across all leading TV channels from March 26.

It has been conceptualised by ad veteran Prasoon Joshi of McCann Erickson, and brought to life by Abhijit Chaudhuri of Black Magic Productions. 

It aims at showcasing purposeful action and a self-empowered point of view in today's youth.

"The campaign ad features Aishwarya in a totally new avatar. She uses emotions like wit and humour and encourages us all to take control of one's life without being intimidated," says Vikas Gupta, a vice president of Coca-Cola India.

  
'Souten' is loaded with steamy scenes
Indo-Asian News Service

New Delhi, March 22 (IANS) A stepmother in most cultures is portrayed as an evil person, and that's exactly what Mahima Chaudhary is playing in Karan Razdan's "Souten - The Other Woman" releasing Friday. 

More than two decades ago, Saawan Kumar Tak made "Souten" with Rajesh Khanna, Tina Munim and Padmini Kolhapure, which was a huge hit then. Coincidently, his nephew Navin Kumar Tak produces the new film. 

The common thread between the two films is Padmini Kolhapure, who played 'the other woman' in the original. But in this film she is donning a different role - she plays a narrator and a moralist.

The film focuses on Raj (Vikram Singh), who is in love with Sapna (Kiran Rathod). Sapna's jealous stepmother Mitali (Mahima Choudhary) cannot bear the fact that her stepdaughter is getting attention from a young man because she is stuck with the middle-aged Thakur Ranbeer Singh. 

Dissatisfied and frustrated, Mitali causes trouble for Sapna by seducing her boyfriend. Smita (Padmini Kolhapure), who is married to Raj's elder brother Sumer Singh (Shakti Kapoor), tries to put the story on the moral track. 

The scribes wrote off Razdan's recent release "Umar" but he seems to be undeterred by the criticism and claims that "Souten", which is laced with lots of steamy scenes, will do well at the box office. 

Unfortunately, the theme is not very hot in Bollywood and the prospect of seeing another film about the other woman is likely to elicit a yawn from the audience.

The director is, however, positive about the film and says he has treated it differently to meet the expectations of the audience.
 
No one can remake 'Guide': Dev Anand (INTERVIEW)
By Subhash K. Jha, Indo-Asian News Service

Mumbai, March 22 (IANS) Veteran actor Dev Anand is unhappy with the current trend of revisiting old classics in Bollywood and says no one can remake his "Guide".

"I was a little touchy when I heard about it... because our film 'Guide' touched the spiritual heights, which weren't there even in the novel... They are such intelligent people. They don't need to fall back on remakes," the evergreen Dev Anand told IANS in an interview about reports that Rituparno Ghosh and Pritish Nandy were planning to remake the film.

The 1965 film, which was based on R.K. Narayan's novel, starred the legendary actor and Waheeda Rehman and is considered one of the most remarkable films of Indian cinema.

The actor feels it is more challenging to find a new idea than to take inspiration from old movies. "I personally feel it's a great challenge to find a new idea and venture into the unknown. If the idea works it stays alive for at least 50 years."

Excerpts:

Q: Dev saab, I believe you are very upset about "Guide" being remade?

A: But that's cleared now. The director Rituparno Ghosh has clearly stated he is not remaking "Guide". So the matter is closed. No one can remake "Guide". 

"Guide" is R.K. Narayan's "Guide", "Guide" is Dev Anand's and Vijay Anand's "Guide". You are free to get inspired from any source. That's the creative mind's prerogative. But you can't claim to remake "Guide". I was a little touchy when I heard about it... because our film "Guide" touched the spiritual heights, which weren't there even in the novel. 

The book doesn't have that spiritual feel of our film. Pritish Nandy is a good friend of mine. I fired off a letter asking why he was doing "Guide". They are such intelligent people. They don't need to fall back on remakes. My reaction was quite natural. 

I remember Rituparno had come to me in Delhi when I had won the Dadasaheb Phalke award, asking me for the remake rights of "Guide". I had advised him against remaking "Guide".

Q: Ritu thinks it is an inviolable classic.

A: He is a wonderful man. I admire him for what he says. I feel flattered when people credit so much sanctity to "Guide". I hold this film and many of my old films close to my heart. Why should anyone have the right to borrow my films?

Q: Would you say "Guide" is the most important film of your career?

A: That would be unfair to some of my other films. You know my career graph! In all the films that my company Navketan has made, I have always experimented with new ideas, walked the road of originality even at the risk of failure. Every film I have made is different, including my latest "Mr. Prime Minister". 

Thoughts flow through my head constantly. Suddenly a thought clicks, and I'm on to my next film, even at the risk of my reputation, my career and my money. 

Original ideas are much greater fun. Every day you come across new ideas and new situations in the newspapers. There are so many subjects to choose from. Then why go back to past ideas? The latest trend is to remake old films. 

Q: What do you think of that trend?

A: Why go to remakes instead of your inner resources? I am asked many times why I don't remake my "Guide" or "Hare Rama Hare Krishna". I say, 'Not again, please!' 

Am I intellectually so bankrupt that I need to go back to my past? If I did I'd cease to be a creative artiste.

Q: You have never looked back.

A: Not so far. Providence and my willpower have helped me to always stride forward. Is there anybody else in the world who's actively making motion pictures at my age? 

For the first time in my life I am looking back. I have just completed my autobiography, which I have given to my publishers. I am soon going to make it public. It spans my 62 working years in the motion-picture business. I could have gone on and on writing. That's me and I love the process of creating. I have got an international publisher and they are going through my manuscript right now. I have written my thoughts, in my style.

Q: Was it difficult going back?

A: You are a writer. You know what a pleasure it is to recreate events in your life. As I went into my life I often realised, 'My god, I never knew this had happened!' The mind is such a huge ocean of memories and information. The mind is capable of climbing as high as any mountain and going as a deep as any ocean.

Q: Do you like the films that are being made these days?

A: Different filmmakers have different temperaments and they are working accordingly. Today's filmmakers are very lucky because they have the works of the great masters to fall back on. In our times we knew only the relatively recent work of New Theatres, Bombay Talkies. We fell back on our own experiences to create movies. Which was good, really! 

Today's motion-picture makers are blessed. They are exposed to satellite television, the Internet...They can experience the best of world cinema at international film festivals.

Q: That's also stopping our filmmakers from being original.

A: That's my point. Images from international films, TV channels and the Internet stay in their minds. We didn't have exposure to such things... Every writer has the prerogative to be original. The minute he or she stops being original, it's time to question the purpose of creativity. The world is looking at the creative artiste. Shouldn't he move forward instead of going back? 

I personally feel it's a great challenge to find a new idea and venture into the unknown. If the idea works it stays alive for at least 50 years.

Q: Where do you get the energy to go on?

A: I don't know. I still feel I've a lot of energy. I feel I have done nothing yet, believe me! I have finished my book and I was supposed to go to Nepal for a film. But there's political stress in Nepal. Since I can't sit idle I've gravitated to another script for a film that I'll start soon.

Q: And what would that be?

A: It's a murder mystery. Once I finish the script I'll start casting. But yes, it will feature me.
 
TV channels asked to apologise for sleazy songs
Indo-Asian News Service

New Delhi, March 22 (IANS) Not only can TV channels in India be penalised for flouting norms but they may also have to run apology scrolls on the lines of school punishments.

This has what recently happened with seven music TV channels when the ministry of information and broadcasting came down heavily on them for broadcasting objectionable remixes of Hindi film songs. 

Channel V, B4U Music, Balle Balle Music, MTV Music, iTV Music and MH1 were pulled up for broadcasting what were deemed as sleazy songs in violation of the Programme Code prescribed under the Cable TV Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995. 

Not only has the ministry banned the telecast of these music videos on the channels but they have also been asked to run a scroll on their TV channels round the clock for a period of three days saying they "have violated the Programme Code" and they "will be more careful in future".

Show cause notices were also issued to 31 satellite TV channels by the ministry for telecasting surrogate advertisements in 13 categories of liquor and tobacco brand extension in violation of relevant sections of the Advertising Code. 

The code prescribed under Cable TV Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995 and rules framed in accordance says, "no advertisement shall be permitted which promotes directly or indirectly production, sale or consumption of cigarette, tobacco production, wine, alcohol, liquor or other intoxicant".
 

India critical to our growth: Viacom chief
By Fakir Hassen, Indo-Asian News Service

Mumbai, March 22 (IANS) A large part of US media giant Viacom's future growth will come from India, company CEO and president Tom Freston said Wednesday while confessing he fell in love with Zeenat Aman after seeing a film of hers.

Preston was delivering the keynote address at the inauguration of Frames 2006, the annual meet organised here by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI).

The Viacom head said the company planned to expand its global position over the next five years, including not only self-distribution but also increasing co-production with the Indian film industry.

Preston said India had also greatly influenced the localisation plan of MTV across the world. "I knew from my experience in India that MTV could work anywhere, as long as it was localised."

Preston said the first managers employed to run MTV here did not know the audience and just blasted Western music at Indian audiences - "so we hired local nationals to design the channel with VJs who spoke English and Hindi." 

Preston said the experience of India had reinforced the commitment to further localisation of MTV globally. "The lessons of India have led to fewer than one percent of the staff being American now."

Preston explained how his experience with a clothing business that he started in India many years ago had influenced his thinking when he joined Viacom as marketing manager.

"After seeing 'Hare Rama Hare Krishna', I fell in love with Zeenat Aman and I loved the music of Asha Bhosle. I knew if it had that effect on me, it would knock the socks off every one else.

"I remember seeing Amitabh Bachchan long before he began making anyone a millionaire," he said referring to the hit TV programme "Kaun Banega Crorepati" that the actor used to conduct.
 
India-Britain treaty will yield 10 films initially
By Fakir Hassen, Indo-Asian News Service

Mumbai, March 22 (IANS) India and Britain will together make 10 films worth 155 million pounds initially under a co-production treaty partly signed last year.

Tessa Jowell, the British secretary for culture, media and sports, said this while addressing Frames 2006 Wednesday and pointed out that Indian films accounted for over 16 percent of all British releases last year.

Frames 2006 is an annual gathering here organised by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI).

Jowell, who was the guest of honour, said the 10 films would be made in the first year. "That kind of progress is important not just in the film context but as part of our government's aim to nurture the whole creative sector," she said. 

She said it was important that the creative sector take advantage of the economic changes wrought by globalisation. "Indian innovation is making waves across the world - being the first to stream a film on a mobile phone is just one example."

Jowell said since her last visit to Frames in 2004, links between the two countries had grown.

"Cineworld cinemas are showing Indian films across the UK and there were 2.6 million visits to Hindi films in the UK last year. Indian films accounted for over 16 percent of all UK releases last year, taking 12.4 million pounds at the box office."

Jowell said she hoped that the full treaty would be signed soon, describing the signing of the main body of the agreement in December last year as "a landmark in a new era of partnership".

"The treaty will benefit the film industries in both countries by hosting creative and technical collaborations from film festivals and marketing to production management services and the sale of cinematography equipment. It will also benefit both nations' creative skills sets and enhance the diversity and heritage in both countries."

Commenting on the intertwined cultures of the two countries, Jowell said: "With the English language influence on contemporary India, and contemporary India's influence on modern Britain, that sharing of skills and experience is simple common sense."
 
Indian cinema must get act right in US: Amritraj
By Fakir Hassen, Indo-Asian News Service

Mumbai, March 22 (IANS) The Indian film industry needs to address several issues - such as the right theatres and movie houses - if it wants to see growth in the US, former Indian tennis star-turned-US filmmaker Ashok Amritraj said Wednesday.

He was speaking at Frames 2006, the annual convention on the Indian entertainment industry organised here by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI).

"You have to find the right theatres - generally you have a one-hour drive to go find an Indian movie," Amritraj said.

"They should find the movie houses that are easy to access and I would like to see Indian producers and distributors and perhaps some of us abroad joining hands.

"I think it is also important to figure out a way to capture global audiences. Right now I think the primary audience is the NRIs abroad. 

"It's not an easy task - you are competing against films from all over the world, but I certainly think that (Indian) films are capable of capturing a non-Indian audience."

Supporting earlier speakers at the convention who called for the piracy issue in India to be addressed, Amritraj said while he had heard a lot of talk around this for the last couple of years, he would like to see much stricter laws.

"In my home state of Tamil Nadu, piracy is a non-bailable offence, and I'd like to see that in every state in the country."

Copyright laws need to receive attention as well, and Indian filmmakers needed to be more original, he said. "It's not a good idea to have storylines necessarily inspired by the latest Hollywood filmmaker."

Amritraj concluded by saying that the growth of Indian film, television and animation was "unstoppable". 

"I look forward to being a part of it and I look forward to the first Indian film that will capture a global audience."
 
Now, Emraan smooches underwater
Indo-Asian News Service

Mumbai, March 23 (IANS) Emraan Hashmi fans who were hugely disappointed at not finding him in any kissing scenes in "Kalyug" can take heart.

Sources say that in his upcoming film "Gangster", Emraan not only romances new actress Kangana but also has an intimate kissing scene with her - underwater!

-*-

Aamir comments on Luthria's film

Director Milan Luthria has been getting rave reviews for "Taxi No. 9211", but he was perhaps most thrilled that Aamir Khan made the effort to watch the movie in a hall.

While some have said the bonding between Nana Patekar and John Abraham was the most interesting aspect, others have commented on its portrayal of Mumbai's fast-paced life. However, the ever observant Aamir commented that what stood out in the film was the fact that both the heroes had negative shades.

And Luthria has been on cloud nine since.

-*-

Raima wants a glamorous role

Raima Sen, who has worked in acclaimed films like "Chokher Bali" and "Godmother", is now dying to work in a typical Bollywood masala movie where she gets to play a glamorous role.

She says: "The grass is always greener on the other side. I have done several intense roles but have the desire to work in a glamorous, mainstream masala film."

This year, she will be seen playing a mentally disturbed young woman in Vidhu Vinod Chopra's "Eklavya" and a costume designer in Rituparno Ghosh's "Khela".
 

'Paathshala' is hottest song of the week
Indo-Asian News Service

New Delhi, March 23 (IANS) The top Bollywood album position is still occupied by composer A.R. Rahman's hit track "Paathshala" from the film "Rang De Basanti". It is an energetic number and captures the psyche of today's youth.

The top 10 Hindi songs are:

1. "Paathshala" - Film: "Rang De Basanti"; Singers: Naresh Iyer, Mohammed Aslam; Music: A.R. Rahman. The song's popularity is soaring and it has perched itself in the first position.

2. "Meter down" - Film: "Taxi No.9211"; Singer: Adnan Sami; Music: Vishal-Shekhar. The film has turned out to be a profitable venture for director Milan Luthria and its songs are popular too, especially this hot and funky number which has Nana Patekar and John Abraham swaying together.

3. "Say na say na" - Film: "Bluffmaster"; Singers: Aneela, Robert and Arash; Music: Vishal-Shekhar. The song has a bhangra-pop feel and is occupying the third slot on the list this week.

4. "Jhalak dikhlaja" - Film: "Aksar"; Singer: Himesh Reshammiya; Music: Himesh Reshammiya. Reshammiya is going places with the song. 

5. "Aapki kashish" - Film: "Aashiq Banaya Aapne"; Singer: Himesh Reshammiya; Music: Himesh Reshammiya. The song, which has won many awards for the music composer, is still one of the hottest numbers on the chart.

6. "Fanaah" - Film: "Hum Ko Deewana Kar Gaye"; Singers: K.K. and Anu Malik; Music: Anu Malik. It is keeping Akshay Kumar's fans entertained and quickly rising up the charts.

7. "Jiya dhadak dhadak jaye" - Film: "Kalyug"; Singer: Rahat Fateh Ali Khan; Music: Rohail Hyat and Faisal Rafi. This is one of the best romantic songs of the year and those who like love songs are enjoying it immensely. 

8. "Yeh hai meri kahani" - Film: "Zinda"; Singers: Strings; Music: Strings. Composed by Pakistani band, the song touches the sentiments of listeners.

9. "Halla re" - Film: "Neal 'N' Nikki"; Singers: Shweta Pandit, Salim Merchant and Irshad Kamil; Music: Salim-Sulaiman. The film flopped but the song has found a firm foothold on the music chart.

10. "Kajra re" - Film: "Bunty Aur Babli"; Singers: Alisha Chinai, Shankar Mahadevan and Javed Ali; Music: Shankar, Ehsaan and Loy. Some songs never let go and this qawwali is one of them.

(Source: The Music Shop, Khan Market, New Delhi)
 
Dharmendra reveals secret about Vyjayantimala
By Fakir Hassen, Indo-Asian News Service

Mumbai, March 23 (IANS) When two cinema legends meet and reminisce, it makes for great reel and real moments. And so it was here when Dharmendra and Vyjayantimala shared the stage and the "Sholay" actor went back 30 years ago when she was a star and he just a beginner.

The veteran actor disclosed how he was desperate to talk to Vyjayantimala and approached her on his own 30 years ago when he did not find anyone to introduce him to the ravishing actress.

The two veterans of Indian cinema were the recipients of the FICCI Living Legends Award Wednesday at the annual Frames 2006 meet, which reviews the state of the entertainment and media industries in India.

"It's very difficult to get away from the camera. I love it. I want to continue and with your good wishes I hope soon there will be something again," Dharmendra said addressing the gathering.

The actor said there could be no greater pride for him than to share the stage with Vyjayantimala, as he revealed that he had been trying very hard to get the opportunity to work with her in a film when he was still new to the industry.

"At many functions I saw her, but no one would introduce me to her. I used to admire her beauty from afar and leave. I told several producers that I have not had a picture with Vyjayanti and before she goes, go and get me one."

However, the opportunity came when both worked together in the film "Pyar Hi Pyar".

"At the first shooting, which was a dance and song sequence, I asked my director Bappi Sohni to introduce me to her because I had not met her until that day, to which the director replied: 'Man, I have not met her yet myself, so how am I going to introduce you to her?'"

To loud laughter from the audience, Dharmendra said being a true Jat, he went over and introduced himself and they happily went through the song "Tu Mera, Mein Teri".

"I greatly admire her and I have great respect for her. I wish we could have such heroines again."

"Words fail me, but I accept this in all humility," said a dignified Vyjayantimala, who starred in a wide variety of roles in her era. 

"Even though I am not there any more in the film industry, I feel that it is one great family and I have been a participant - a very, very happy participant."

"I think Yashji has put together some of my best numbers from my films," added the actress as she referred to a special tribute of clips which was put together by another veteran who was honoured at the function, Yash Chopra.

Chopra received a special award from a Pakistani delegation at Frames 2006 for his efforts in bringing the two countries closer through cinema.
 
Raj Kumar's daughter enters the Bollywood stage
Indo-Asian News Service

Mumbai, March 23 (IANS) Another Bollywood progeny makes her debut. Vastavikta, daughter of the legendary Raj Kumar, will be seen Friday in Karan Razdan's supernatural thriller "Eight Shani".

Though the film has a sizeable sleaze content - Razdan made the controversial "Girlfriend" - and Vastavikta exposes quite a bit, she says she won't do a dare-bare act to add shock value to a film.

"Each artiste has to decide on their own and I will not expose to add shock value to a film. In case I accept any such role, it will depend upon many factors," says the daughter of the actor who gave Indian cinema classics like "Naya Daur" and "Neel Kamal".

Vastavikta says she didn't feel uncomfortable working with the director, who is more famous for making films with plenty of sleaze and sex.

"I was very comfortable with him and there was a family atmosphere on the sets. Karan Razdan never imposed his decisions on anybody. He was open to suggestions," Vastavikta told IANS.

When asked her about her role, she said: "I am playing Kamini who is born and brought up in London. She loses her parents at a very tender age and is emotionally disturbed. I can't reveal more but something unusual happens in her life that changes everything."

Vastavikta has always aspired to be an actress. After finishing her degree course from New York, she took acting lessons under Vidur Sir and attended workshops with Satyadev Dubey and Shernaz Patel. 

She also learnt jazz under Shiamak Davar and went to Terrence Lewis classes. 

Apart from "Eight Shani", Vastavikta has three more projects in her kitty. 

Her elder brother Puru Rajkumar is still struggling to make it big and so the family have pinned all their hopes on her.

Other star kids making their big screen debuts this year - Rishi Kapoor's son Ranbir, Anil Kapoor's daughter Sonam and Mahesh Bhatt's son Rohit.
 
Amritraj's next film to be shot in India, US
By Fakir Hassen, Indo-Asian News Service

Mumbai, March 23 (IANS) Filmmaker Karan Johar has promised to help his US counterpart Ashok Amritraj find an Indian heroine for his next venture.

This was part of the discussion in a special session Thursday morning of 'In Conversation' at Frames 2006, the annual meet that reviews the state of the Indian entertainment and media industries.

In a wide-ranging chat, the former tennis star-turned-filmmaker Amritraj disclosed that Indian film technicians had a better chance of making it big in Hollywood than Indian actors. He also said India lacked good scriptwriters and that Johar's "Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham" could have had a bigger audience in the US market than "Black".

The filmmaker said he was planning to make a film called "The Other End of the Line", about an Indian girl and an American, to be made 50 percent in each country, for which Johar said "we're going to find you that girl because we have a lot of talent in India".

Amritraj stopped short of naming the sexiest actress in India despite repeated pressure from Johar.

"Mmmm.... Errr...., I'll have to ask for help on that one from Yash (Chopra, sitting in the front row)," said Amritraj, and candidly excluded Amitabh Bachchan from his list of three most favourite actors, citing the Khans - Shah Rukh, Aamir and Saif Ali. 

The former tennis player described Saif Ali Khan's film "Parineeta" as the best one he had seen in recent times, but refused to budge on the sexiest actress issue.

"When I was growing up, actresses were 5' 3" and a lot heavier, but these days they are 5' 9" and match any in the West," Amritraj said.

Described by Johar as "an ambassador for Bollywood in the US", Amritraj said there were still many issues that needed to be addressed before Indian films became acceptable to US distributors.

Commenting on Johar's query on the advantages of a linkup with a big name such as Sony, as had recently been done by award-winning filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Amritraj said this would not necessarily guarantee 1,000 screens in the US immediately.

"I think part of the problem has been that the US companies have not yet figured out how to sell an Indian film to a traditional white audience. The costs of advertising and marketing for an American movie is so high - $30-$40 million for the first weekend - so when you pick up one of these (Indian) films what do you do with it?'

But with all the studios now looking at India for production, Amritraj was confident that the situation would change in a year or two.

Asked about the standard of Indian movies, Amritraj said "like elsewhere in the world, (India) has four or five great filmmakers, like yourself, Yash and the other guys."

"The most brilliance I've seen about Indian cinema is the filming and the photography. They get amazing stuff on screen - unbelievable colours and amazing beauty, but I think it's greatly lacking in content."

Prompted on whether he voted for "Paheli" in the Best Foreign film category of the Oscars as a member of the Academy, Amritraj responded almost indignantly: "Of course I voted for 'Paheli'! Absolutely! I am extremely loyal to Indian films, I must say, and I happened to like the film. I think Shah Rukh is an extremely talented actor."

But there were other issues about why "Paheli" had not made it: "To get an 80-year-old guy from the Academy to come and watch 'Paheli', when it's not been distributed by a studio, is not easy."
 
Media has become a monster: Aamir
Indo-Asian News Service

New Delhi, March 23 (IANS) Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan, smarting over the panning of his film "Mangal Pandey", says the fourth estate should be the watchdog of society - not its lap dog. 

"Because they want more advertisements, they are destroying what is a very important part of the society - news reporting. It is wasting important national space that should be used in a more productive manner," Aamir said, breaking several months of silence in an exclusive interview to Tehelka newsmagazine, during which he spoke at length on the state of the Indian media. 

This is for the first time any actor has dared to do so. He said it wasn't just the cynical decimation of the professionals or the intrusion into the deeply personal matters like his divorce and remarriage that irked him, but the misplaced emphasis on sensation that was cause for worry. 

Aamir feels that as a public person he should voice his opinion because news reporting is a "matter of national concern". 

"Unfortunately, media barons and top executives are too fixated on short-term dividends to square up to the larger picture," said Aamir whose recent release "Rang De Basanti" has turned out to be a blockbuster.

Talking about his current release he said that despite the expected media interaction that the film's release demanded of him, he couldn't bring himself to deal with "this kind of people... this monster that the media had become".

Aamir said he shunned the tinsel press even when he was just a beginner. 

"At that time, the mainline newspapers never reported films, there were no hundred channels, only Doordarshan - so effectively you were cutting yourself off from fans if you didn't speak to film magazines. I understood that, but I chose to do what was right." 

Even today, he feels the same about the press because the core principle of journalism - that of being a watchdog - is being violated.

"The media is meant to be the watchdog of society, not its lap dog! Some restraint you have to show, boss," Aamir maintained. 

Commenting upon the sting operations he said: "Sting operations are admissible if they are governed by public interest. But the non-stop 'absurdity' of mainstream media content - be it the Salman (Khan)-Aishwarya (Rai) tapes in Hindustan Times and The Asian Age, or Channel 7's faux interviews with myself, or the India TV sting on Shakti Kapoor, or alarmist file footage of the Mumbai floods for the second round of monsoons that hit the city, or poaching on an ailing Amitabh Bachchan, has forced me to stop reading and watching most papers and channels."

The actor, who finds both Hindi and English media guilty of overkill, prefers watching Doordarshan. 

"At least one is spared the theatrics, deep sighs, wiping of tears and background music," said Aamir. 

"Some news channel has to get up and say I am not indulging in this. It might lose viewership for the first month or so, but it will establish that it is not indulging in all of this, and I am sure people will come around." 

The actor said: "This is where even channels like NDTV and CNN-IBN, who set them up to be different, have not made the mark." 

He said that trivialisation or degrading of news is something he won't take and feels in something as sacrosanct as news reporting, commercial priorities must take a backseat. 
 
Ekta goes middle class with new soap
By Subhash K. Jha, Indo-Asian News Service 

Mumbai, March 24 (IANS) TV tycoon Ekta Kapoor is on a new high with her foray into non-fiction programming "Kandy Floss" paying 'bitch' dividends and her new serial "Kya Hoga Nimmo Ka", which she describes as a tribute to the Basu Chatterjee brand of working class comedies. 

" 'Kandy Floss' is catty, but not bitchy. But the response has been way beyond what we expected. Now I am charged about 'Kya Hoga Nimmo Ka'. Pataa nahin kya hoga Ekta ka," she joked about her new serial, which was unveiled March 20 on STAR One.

Ekta's first soap on STAR One is a new experience for her on many levels.

"It's my first soap on the new channel on STAR, therefore it has to work not just for Balaji (Films) but for the new channel. It's the funniest show on earth. Yet it isn't a comedy. It's got drama but no melodrama. I promise my audience that no one is going to die and come back," Ekta chuckles, drawing attention to the melodramatic mode that her serials generally adopt.

Ekta says the protagonist of her new serial Nimmo resembles her in many ways.

"You know Nimmo is in many ways like me. 'Kya Hoga Nimmo Ka' is my version of the Cinderella fairytale. Like me, she has simple dreams. Like me, she waits for the pumpkin to turn into a stagecoach. And yet Nimmo is very much rooted to the middleclass," Ekta told IANS in an interview.

She promises novelty in her new serial.

"Those who have accused me of making one kind of soaps will see that I have changed to another format. I have deviated without getting into reality TV or any of the non-fiction programming formats. 'Nimmo' sticks to my style and yet goes into a new territory. 

"I'd say it's my tribute to the working-class comedies by Basu Chatterjee and Sai Paranjpye. It's like Chatterjee's Parsi 'Khatta Meetha' shifted to a Gujarati milieu. But, please, Nimmo's family is nothing like the Viranis in 'Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi'. There are Gujjus and Gujjus."

Ekta exults about her latest offering. 

"Nimmo is your regular middleclass dreamer with normal dreams with two sisters who are considered far more capable and happening than Nimmo. The mom is not a shrew like Cinderella's stepmom. But she genuinely believes Nimmo to be a loser. But, boy, does she have surprises in store!"

She has roped in ex-cricketer and commentator Navjot Singh Sidhu to play the role of a narrator.

"To play Nimmo we got a new girl Sanjita. She has done a couple of south films. But she is completely new to Mumbai. As for Ejiaz Khan, he plays our Prince Charming very charmingly. Navjot Singh Sidhu is cast like a sutradhar who may or may not be god. Who knows! He keeps popping up at unexpected times to advise Nimmo. He's like the fairy godmother in Cinderella." 

Ekta doesn't see herself as being responsible for giving the fledgling STAR One channel a twist in the TRPs. 

"Why only 'Nimmo'? There are several other new soaps coming on STAR One. So far the channel hasn't really focused on fiction. Let's see how far 'Nimmo' helps."

Talk veers to Ekta's other new experiment. 

"In just a week 'Kandy Floss' has ruffled quite a few feathers. And it is going to get more and more irreverent. The interview with Sandhya Mridul and Rakhi Sawant was a rocker. 'Kandy Floss' isn't for the weak at heart. I guess Balaji is finally growing bold."
 
Bhansali gives Rani a role as birthday present
By Subhash K. Jha, Indo-Asian News Service 

Mumbai, March 24 (IANS) Rani Mukerji could not have got a better birthday gift this year - a role in favourite Sanjay Leela Bhansali's new film "Saawariya".

Bhansali, who gave Rani one of her most acclaimed performances in "Black", offered her the role on her birthday March 21.

The actress is ecstatic.

"The best gift came from Sanjay Bhansali. He has given me a role in his new film 'Saawariya'. Last year he had given me 'Black'. I hope I'll continue to be a part of everything he does even it is just as an assistant on his set or something. He came to Yash Raj Studios. To see him prepare for 'Saawariya' takes me back to 'Black'," Rani told IANS.

"And then there were other gifts... My mom gave me a typical Bong sone ka kadaa (gold bangle)," she added. 

"Actually I shot till 11.30 p.m. with Karan (Johar), Shah Rukh (Khan) and Amit uncle. It's such a coincidence. But I seem to be shooting with Karan for all my birthdays. 

"During 'Kuch Kuch Hota Hai' I did that shot where I come as a ghost during my birthday. Then I was again with Karan for K3G ('Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham') on my birthday. 

"This year after we wrapped up 'Kabhi Alvidaa Na Kehna' for the day, I brought in my birthday with my parents, who have been staying at the Holiday Inn since our house is being renovated. We were all there - my brother, bhabhi, parents and naani who came all the way from Kolkata. I cut a cake and brought in my birthday. There's no better way for me to spend my birthday than being with my family. 

"Then I came back in the night and spent the whole time answering phone calls and messages for my birthday - don't ask me how many there were. I am amazed at how many people love me and wish me well. I am so touched by the whole experience. I hope I continue being loved for many, many birthdays to come."

The thought of having shot with Amitabh during her birthday brings a smile on her face. 

"It was almost like a pre-birthday gift. To have Amit uncle back on the sets with us... it was such a wonderful moment for all of us," said Rani.

Rani's birthday thoughts? 

"I want to remain the way I have always been. I am a family girl. I want to continue looking after my parents to the best of my ability. I want to bring a smile to as many faces as possible. 

"The STAR channel gave me a truly wonderful birthday gift. They took me to celebrate my birthday with the deaf and the blind. The amount of love I got from these people on my birthday was unbelievable. They made it my most memorable birthday ever." 

"And listen," she shoots off as a parting shot, "My most cuddly birthday gift is yet to come. I can hardly wait to hold my bhabhi's baby in my arms. No feeling in the world can equal the touch of a baby in your hands."
 
After 'Malamaal...', it's 'Bhagam Bhag' for Priyadarshan
Indo-Asian News Service

Mumbai, March 24 (IANS) After making the laugh riot "Malamaal Weekly", director Priyadarshan has started shooting for his next fun flick "Bhagam Bhag".

The unit is currently shooting a dance sequence on a massive set in Filmistan Studio. In June, the director plans to move to London for a long schedule, sources said.

For this comic caper the director has teamed up with favourite actors Akshay Kumar and Paresh Rawal. He has also roped in Govinda, Jackie Shroff and Lara Dutta in important roles.

Pritam scores the music for the film. The story, screenplay and dialogue are by Neeraj Vora, the art direction by Sibu Cyril, choreography by Prasanna and Rashmi Verma and the cinematography is by Jeeva.

Shree Ashtavinayak Cinevision Ltd produces this non-stop entertainer in association with Popcorn Entertainment and K Sera Sera.
 
Razdan's 'animal instincts' checked by Maneka Gandhi
By Subhash K. Jha, Indo-Asian News Service

Mumbai, March 24 (IANS) Director Karan Razdan, whose two back-to-back ready-for-release films "Souten" and "Eight Shani" were in censor trouble, says filmmakers need to know the codes regarding treatment of animals in films.

"It was the animal welfare activists. There are scenes involving animals in both my films. These days any film with animals is scrutinised. I am okay with that. But I need to know the dos and don'ts better," Razdan told IANS. 

"Anyway, I met Maneka Gandhi and I must say she was extremely courteous. Though, when I spoke to her about creative freedom she did reprimand me not to hide behind concepts of creativity to get away with code violations. But we filmmakers seriously need to know what those codes regarding animals in films, are. 

"Are we supposed to not have animals in our films at all? Anyway thanks to Manekaji's reasonable attitude both 'Souten' and 'Eight Shani' have been cleared. Distributors who were on tenterhooks can breathe easy," he added.

After the release of "Umar" last week, Razdan has "Souten" - where a mother and daughter fall in love with the same guy and "Eight Shani" - a spooky thriller -lined up for release. 

Razdan is probably the first director to have three consecutive releases in three weeks.

"Yes it's 'Souten' on March 24 and 'Eight Shani' on March 31. So that's three releases in three weeks. I don't know of any other director with the same track record," said Razdan. 

"In the first few years of my career as a director I just made one film. In the last three years I have directed six films. That's because of my Buddhist leanings. In fact, 'Eight Shani' is entirely an offshoot of my experiences in Buddhism." 

Razdan has dedicated "Eight Shani" to his late wife Priya Tendulkar. 

"I dedicated my first film 'Roshni' to her. But it never got released. Luckily my other tribute to this remarkable woman is finally going to be out. 'Eight Shani' is my way of saying sorry for all the wrongs that I did to Priya."

As for "Souten"... "It does have a fair amount of body exposure because it's about adultery. And you can't show adultery without sex. 

"But compared to what we got to see in films like 'Neal 'N' Nikki' and 'Aksar', I feel 'Souten' is child's play. Even 'Girlfriend', my film about lesbianism, had no skin show." 
 
Anupam Kher's 'American Blend' to be screened at MAMI
Indo-Asian News Service

Mumbai, March 24 (IANS) Anupam Kher-starrer "American Blend", a film that explores cross-cultural relationships, will be screened at the ongoing Mumbai Academy of Moving Images (MAMI) international film festival here.

The film that also stars Dee Wallace Stone, David Oyelowo, Kristin Erickson, Ruben Garfias and Ranjit Chowdhary will be shown Saturday as part of the repertoire at the festival that began Thursday.

Directed by Los Angeles-based Indian filmmaker Varun Khanna, "American Blend" is a love story that revolves around an Indian guy, Raj (Anupam Kher), and his American-born wife Jayme (Dee Wallace Stone), whose 20-year marriage survives the problems inherent in a relationship between two people from different ethnic backgrounds. 

Maya (Kristen Erickson), who works at her stepfather Raj's restaurant, faces same difficulties when she gets romantically involved with Mercury (David Oyelowo), a black tap dancer who takes a job at the restaurant.

The film won the best writer-director/achievement filmmaker award at the Riverside International film festival in the US last month. 

Khanna started his career at the age of 17 with his critically acclaimed production of Peter Shaffer's play "Equus" and ventured into filmmaking with "Beyond Honor", a landmark film on the oppression and high tension in suburban America. 

Made under the banner of White Stripes Entertainment Ltd., "American Blend" is produced by Krishna Datla and Vishwaas Paandya, who was also associated as an actor and executive producer with Anupam's "Maine Gandhi Ko Nahi Mara". 

Anu Malik has composed the music for the film.
 
Prince Edwards sways to bhangra on India Night
By V. Krishnaswamy, Indo-Asian News Service

Melbourne, March 24 (IANS) Prince Edwards swayed to Punjabi bhangra at a star-studded India Night at the Commonwealth Games, the likes of which is rarely seen outside the country. 

Over 400 local dancers trained for the past five weeks combined Bollywood's glitzy musicals numbers and Indian fashion beautifully to produce a night to remember Thursday. 

It was also a night when Prince Edwards swayed to electrifying bhangra, and Melbourne's first mayor of Chinese origin, John So, tucked into some spicy vindaloo. 

Amid all this, Delhi Chief Minister Shiela Dikshit promised a show as good if not better than Melbourne's when the Commonwealth Games comes to her city in 2010.

Then there was the dancer-choreographer Shiamak Davar, who had put together a performance at the World Economic Forum in Davos earlier this year. 

His dance numbers from the super-hit "Bunty aur Babli" had the whole audience up and about, with even the sprightly 77-year-old Milkha Singh, the legendary Flying Sikh, getting onto the dance stage. 

Ritu Beri's fashion segment and Meenakshi Seshadri's dancer numbers added to the glitter as thousands jostled outside the Town Hall to catch a glimpse of the Bollywood and sports stars.

Adding to the sporting touch was Sunil Gavaskar who, after a rather low-toned speech, rounded off with the fervent wish that India beat Australia in the 2007 World Cup final, much to the glee of the Indians in the gathering. 

And there was tennis ace Vijay Amritraj recalling the days spent across the street at the Flinders Park, which was what the Rod Laver Arena was then called and where the annual Australian Open, the year's first Grand Slam of tennis, is played. 

The India Night also featured P.T. Usha, Michael Ferreira, Olympic silver medallist shooter Rajyavardhan Rathore, Nafisa Ali and Pooja Bedi among others. 

The function hosted by the Delhi 2010 organising committee had in attendance representatives of all 71 Commonwealth nations and the Australian and Indian governments as well as Melbourne games officials. 

They all got a taste of what to expect during the Indian handover ceremony Sunday, when there will more Indian stuff coming up in the special 11-minute segment. 

Suresh Kalmadi, beaming from ear to ear with the roaring success of the night, did the job of a part-time master of ceremonies. With him sat Prince Edward, Lord Sebastian Coe, John Harnden, CEO of Melbourne 2006, Justin Madden, the minister for Commonwealth Games, and a few others.

Shiamak Davar, who has performed for former US president Bill Clinton and choreographed Will Smith, provided a sparkling burst of Indian energy. 

"We will gave all a glimpse of India's rich culture and heritage in the 11 minutes allotted to us (at the closing ceremony) and invite the athletes of the Commonwealth to attend the best ever games in 2010," said Kalmadi, chairman of the Delhi 2010 Commonwealth Games organising committee. 

The 11-minute ceremony at the Melbourne Cricket Ground promises to light up the sky. 

Key performers in the segment included Saif Ali Khan, who shot an entire film, "Salaam Namaste" in Melbourne, film stars Aishwarya Rai, Lara Dutta and Rani Mukherjee. 
 
Gere wants to repair road to Dalai Lama's house
Indo-Asian News Service

Shimla, March 24 (IANS) Hollywood star Richard Gere is keen to repair a narrow potholed mountain road leading to the house of Buddhist spiritual leader the Dalai Lama in Dharamsala town.

Legislator Vijay Singh Mankotia said this in the Himachal Pradesh assembly Friday. 

Dharamsala, 280 km from here, is the seat of the Tibetan government in exile. Gere, a follower and friend of the Dalai Lama, is a frequent visitor there.

"Gere has promised to provide funds to repair a road leading to the house of the Dalai Lama in the town of Dharamsala, provided the money is properly spent," Mankotia told the house.

Earlier, Mankotia had asked Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh about the steps being taken to repair the road.

"In view of the dismal condition of the road which is causing frequent traffic jams and inconvenience to domestic and foreign tourists, including heads of state, who visit the town to meet the Dalai Lama, is the government taking any steps to widen and repair this road?" 

Singh replied: "It is true that this is causing hardships to pedestrians and others, so the public works department has prepared a master plan to improve, upgrade and maintain this and other roads in the town." 

In the past, the Tibetan government in exile has also offered to help in the upkeep of roads in upper Dharamsala.

The Dalai Lama and thousands of his followers have been living in exile in the town since 1959 when he fled Tibet.
 
Ejaz of 'Kavyanjali' will die
By Subhash K. Jha, Indo-Asian News Service 

Mumbai, March 25 (IANS) Kavya, the character played by Ejaz Khan in the TV serial "Kavyanjali", is set to die. But fret not.

Another protagonist, Shaurya, to be played by Iqbal Khan, will take over.

Producer Ekta Kapoor told IANS: "Yes, Ejaz's character is going to die. In fact, his death was scheduled for December 2005. But the development was deferred because Ejaz was nominated for the Star Parivar Awards in several categories. 

"But now we are going right ahead with the death. We at Balaji consider it a big twist in the plot."

Ekta's favourite Iqbal, who is taking over the role of the new protagonist, says there is a reason for it.

"Such changes are bound to happen in long-running serials. When Amit Tandon came into my serial 'Kaisa Yeh Pyaar Hai', he became as central to the plot as my character," said Iqbal. 

He is working for as many as 16 hours for Balaji Telefilms. 

"And I don't regret it one bit. In fact, I enjoy the workload. It's up to Ekta's team to decide how they want to use me. I suppose, out of the 16 working hours, I'll give eight hours to my older serial 'Kaisa Yeh Pyaar Hai' and eight to 'Kavyanjali'... that's what I have worked out in my mind. The rest is up to Ekta."

Iqbal is excited about joining "Kavyanjali". 

"My character Shaurya is very different from Angad in 'Kaisa Yeh Pyaar Hai'. While Angad is a musician, Shaurya is sporty. He plays golf and rugby. Since I enjoy the outdoors, I am looking forward to hitting the field."

What about hitting the right buttons for a perfectly balanced life? 

"You mean a personal life? My girlfriend Sneha and I could tie the knot any time now, as soon as my parents in Kashmir give their nod to the marriage. I am sure this is just a formality. I am blessed with the best parents in the world," said Iqbal. 

Coming back to the impending battle of the Khans on "Kavyanjali", Iqbal sees no danger signs ahead. 

"I don't know Ejaz. We only spot each other when we are shooting in the same studio. We have never interacted much...but he looks like a decent person. Inshaallah, everything will work out fine."
 
'Being Cyrus' is quirky, dark, indefinable cinema: Saif (INTERVIEW)
By Subhash K. Jha, Indo-Asian News Service 

Mumbai, March 25 (IANS) For Saif Ali Khan, his forthcoming film "Being Cyrus" is different in many ways. For the first time, he is working in an offbeat project. Unlike his other films, this one is in English, a language he is more comfortable with.

"See, even if it's Hindi, I still learn quickly. But obviously English, which I speak in real life, requires a body language that I understand. 

"Fortunately, Homi (Adajania) didn't want me to speak accented Parsi English. I spoke it my own way, maybe with a little exaggerated desi accent," Saif told IANS in an interview while explaining his comfort level with the language.

In terms of money, "Being Cyrus" was not a profitable venture but Saif did it for the creative satisfaction. However, he doesn't deny that money does play an important role in the selection of films.

Saif warns his fans not to have very high expectations from him in the film because "Being Cyrus" is not a regular movie. 

"I must warn people that 'Being Cyrus' is not my regular kind of movie. I have done what I was expected to. If they expect me to do comedy and sing songs like in 'Salaam Namaste' or 'Hum Tum' then they'd be disappointed. I'll be seen without my shirt, though."

Excerpts:

Q: You have a very unusual release coming up?

A: I loved "Being Cyrus". Speaking honestly... whether it's Vishal Bharadwaj's "Omkara" or Homi Adajania's "Being Cyrus", I feel I have gone to a different level as an actor. I may be a little unsure at the beginning of a project. But instinctively I think I am getting it right. 

"Being Cyrus" is my first English-language film. It's a different kind of cinema. It's a quality film. It should be evaluated in its own space. It's a quirky, dark indefinable cinema. I am quite proud of it.

Q: People are interested in the film primarily because you are in it? 

A: That sounds like a huge burden to carry around. I must warn people "Being Cyrus" not my regular kind of movie. I have done what I was expected to. If they expect me to do comedy and sing songs like in "Salaam Namaste" or "Hum Tum" then they'd be disappointed. I'll be seen without my shirt, though, ha ha. 

It's a bit of a thriller. I say 'bit', because it only took twenty of my shooting days. It's a good little story. And cinematographer Jehangir Chowdhary has shot it amazingly.

Q: Did it allow you to stretch yourself as an actor?

A: It did, actually. Homi was very insistent on me not being at all posed or filmy.

Q: Homi is also a scuba driver.

A: He's a lot of things. He wants to show a lot on his CV, I think. I thought he'd be a laidback rugby-playing, beer-drinking kind of guy. But I was quite surprised by his dedication and sincerity as a director. 

Q: Did you hit it off instantly? 

A: No. Initially he used to irk me somehow, giving instructions like, 'Don't stand like some Bollywood star'. I finally told him this film would get released only in Mumbai gym. That's when the ice broke. We laughed and laughed together. 

Homi gave me back something that I had lost. He gave me back my sense of humour. We laughed the way only men do at some jokes. I had a blast with him. I remember I once bent down near him because I had dropped my cigarette. He quipped, 'My God, you aren't touching my feet, are you?' Homi is like that. 

Q: Did this film come at a time when you were grappling for the correct grammar of expression?

A: Not really! I remember I was sitting at Nataraj Studio when Homi came to narrate the script. At that time my first thought was, it would be fun to do a film in a language in which I think. At the same time I also wanted to be part of "Being Cyrus" because it sounded like an interesting and brave effort. I realised there was no money in it.

Q: Is money a decisive factor for selection?

A: It is certainly one of the factors. Why not? I have seen enough actors trying to live on commitment. It doesn't work. Often actors waste their time doing films that have no impact. There was no money in "Being Cyrus". But I was impressed by the production. 

I think today after doing films like "Being Cyrus" and "Omkara" I'd do movies just because I felt they are right. These films allow you to call yourself an actor.

Q: About doing a film in a language that you think in...

A: See even if it's Hindi I still learn quickly. But obviously English, which I speak in real life, requires a body language that I understand. Fortunately, Homi didn't want me to speak accented Parsi English. I spoke it my own way, maybe with a little exaggerated desi accent. 

Q: "Being Cyrus" takes Indian cinema away from the formula.

A: Yes, it's an entirely new idiom of expression. Because of the multiplexes, directors have more of an opportunity to do things like "Being Cyrus". There are lots of fine actors around who don't get seen enough, for example Konkona Sen, (Sharma) whom I am working with in "Omkara". She's fantastic. It's great if actors work in films they believe in and get seen by enough people. 

Q: It is your first off-mainstream film.

A: Yeah yeah.... I have been offered quite a lot of offbeat films. I know in three minutes if I want to do a film or not. Some of these directors keep asking me even after I say no. 

The reputation of being indecisive about selecting roles is a good thing if it keeps away those whom I have said no to. But it doesn't. 

Q: Now you have the guts to do the unconventional. 

A: I think "Omkara" and "Being Cyrus" are as different from each other as they are different from conventional cinema. Even "Salaam Namaste" wasn't conventional, though it was mainstream because it was a Yash Raj production. 

Q: In the film you get to share screen space with some very accomplished actors.

A: That was one of the things that attracted me to this project. Boman Irani is a Parsi. I have always got along well with Boman. In fact, I started doing a different kind of acting in an unusual cinema when I did "Darna Manaa Hai" with Boman. We were left to our devices. We enjoyed that piece together. 

During "Being Cyrus" Homi made up these stories about what Boman had to say about me behind my back. I didn't speak to Boman for a whole day. Finally Homi owned up he was just kidding. That's Homi for you.

Q: You share quite a relationship with the gorgeous Dimple Kapadia in it.

A: Yes. She plays this ambitious woman who's married to a loser. She's sexually attracted to a man who comes to work in their home. In an American movie it'd be no big deal.

Q: But in an Indian film?

A: "Being Cyrus" isn't an Indian film. It's a Parsi film, ha, ha! Just joking.
 
Sushma posing a threat to sister Sameera?
By Manissha Despaande, Indo-Asian News Service

Mumbai, March 25 (IANS) It seems Sameera Reddy will have to watch out for in-house competition with the way sister Sushma's career is zooming on the fast track.

Director Mahesh Manjrekar has signed Sushma for his next project, "Big Bazaar", reports Bollywood Trade.

"I have a pivotal role in the ensemble cast of the film. When Mahesh narrated it to me I was absolutely zapped. It reminded me of his dark and brooding gangster flicks," says Sushma.

Sangeeta Ahir, who produced the Sanjay Dutt starrer "Vaah! Life Ho Toh Aisi", is producing "Big Bazaar" that tackles the underbelly of Mumbai and the problems faced by mill workers. 

Besides Manjrekar's film this model-turned-actress, who made her acting debut with the not-so-happening "Chocolate" opposite Anil Kapoor, has bagged another prestigious project.

Sushma has been confirmed to play the female lead in Punit Issar's next film, which is being planned on a big scale and is scheduled to take off later this year. 

"The film with Punit Issar has all the trappings of a big film. I have very interesting roles in both the films that I have recently signed, but I am not in a position to talk about them right now." 

She is now looking forward to the release of "Chup Chupke", where she has teamed up with Kareena Kapoor and Shahid Kapur. 

"It is a dark, romantic comedy with a love triangle between me, Kareena and Shahid," she says, adding that she singed the film when "Chocolate" was under way. 

"In fact, I had to take a day off from the shooting of the film to attend the premier of 'Chocolate'." 

Sushma is particularly excited about her look in "Chup Chupke", which she claims is a far cry from what she looked in "Chocolate". 

"The audiences, which has seen my zany look in 'Chocolate', will be in for a big surprise. I have a simple poker-faced village girl look in the film. 

"In fact, some of Sameera's friends, who saw the recently released trailers on the satellite media, failed to recognise me."

However, Sushma is in no hurry to take on more projects and admits it is a very deliberate strategy she has adopted. 

"I am making a concerted effort to carefully choose and pick roles because I am aware of the dangers of getting trapped in a particular slot. 

"Post 'Chocolate', I did get some very interesting offers. I refused them for good, since they proved to be eventual duds at the box-office. I am glad that I did not get carried away by the numbers game at that time."
 
Urvashi walks out of sets after spat
By Subhash K. Jha, Indo-Asian News Service 

Mumbai, March 25 (IANS) What was meant to be a probing debate on marriage led to major spat as TV actress Urvashi Dholakia walked out of the sets of an Ekta Kapoor serial after flaring up over a comment by Whirlpool model Amrita Saluja.

Urvashi trooped out during the recordings for next week's episode of Sony's "Kandy Floss" when Amrita termed her (Amrita's) husband a "god".

Uvashi said later: "Nothing much happened. The topic we were discussing - marriage - was absolutely non-debatable. I've already spoken as much as I want to about it."

Amrita was far more forthcoming. 

"My husband, sports manager Rahul Raichand, treats me like a princess. So why should I not show him the same love and respect? What was so wrong calling my husband 'god'? It may make the feminists cringe and it may not even be politically correct. But that's how I feel about my husband. Why should Urvashi take offence?"

Apparently, the sharp-tongued TV vamp Urvashi, best known for her catty act as Komalika in "Kasauti Zindagi Kay", objected vocally and accused Amrita of insulting the gods. 

Amrita, who recently worked on Zee's thriller "Time Bomb", went on: "Please! I know my religion. I worship all the deities. And I've read the Bhagavad Gita. Perhaps Urvashi should do the same. It clearly states that there's a god within all of us."