That's a big compliment coming from someone like him who is known for his dancing skills too. Apparently after watching the show Govinda messaged Hrithik.

The latter, who has always been very fond of Chi Chi, responded immediately and the two shared their dancing experiences on SMS." By the way, Govinda is coming on the reality show too this weekend (less)

The dabangg Khan refused to share screen space with his archrival Shah Rukh Khan in any way. However, when it came to sharing the spotlight with Hrithik Roshan and Sanjay Dutt, Salman did not seem to have a problem.

In fact, Sallu insisted on having Karan Johar's Agneepath trailer as a part of his forthcoming Eid release. Salman had asked Reliance not to include the Don 2 trailer in Bodyguard.

In fact, when the producers tried to reason things out with the actor, telling him that both films (Bodyguard and Don 2) belonged to Reliance, he retorted, "Bodyguard is my film as well." "Salman and SRK are not friends.

It was obvious that Salman will not want the trailer of Shah Rukh Khan's film attached to Bodyguard. Salman would have said 'No' even if he had a guest appearance in the film.

His war with SRK is far from over," said a source close to the Sallu starrer. The SRK-Salman war started on July 16, 2008 at Katrina Kaif's 24th birthday bash in a suburban nightspot.

A small argument turned ugly when SRK allegedly commented on Salman's ex-girlfriend Aishwarya Rai. While SRK's Don 2 trailer has been left out from Bodyguard, his good friend Karan Johar's Agneepath promo has been included.

And again, it was Salman who took the call. "It would have made more sense for Reliance to include the promo of Don 2, since it releases this December as opposed to Agneepath that releases in 2012.

but since Salman wanted it, the producers couldn't refuse," revealed a source. Explaining why Salman chose Agneepath over Don 2, a source said, "Salman has been bonding with Karan Johar of late.

According to industry insiders, the actor will work in the Dharma Productions venture to be directed by Rensil D'Silva. Also, Agneepath stars Hrithik Roshan and Sanjay Dutt, two actors who had once had a spat with Salman but are now close to him.

" The final print of Bodyguard that releases this Eid will now have trailers of Agneepath, Luv U Soniyo and Hollywood film Real Steel. "There is neither a trailer or a promo of Don 2 in Bodyguard.

Salman did not want any mention of the SRK starrer in his film," confirmed a source close to Sallu's film (less)

..

he lives, inside us..

.around us.

..

.a journey such as his should be rejoiced.

..

not mourned..

.," Hrithik said.

According to him, even though Kapoor's physical presence will be missed terribly, "his magic lives on within you and me. I will make sure my sons know the superstar their dad admired and loved the most.

..

thank u Shammi uncle and for you I don't want to say R.I.

P, but rather D.I.

H ..

.dancing in heaven now," he said.

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..

From a Shirish calling "Ra.One" a fizzled cracker to a Thackeray almost calling you a Pakistani loyalist, within a week - what did you do to trigger this? Both unimportant.

..

let me say something sincerely. I hope it doesn't sound too rude.

Successful people do things, and get over with it, and leave others to live their life off it. I DO them.

And then I leave it to others to live their life off it. It is so strange - if anyone takes my name, I have the ability to make them famous.

Just by taking my name. And that's God's gift.

My son asked me this the other day, 6 'o' clock in the morning he called me, and asked me, Papa, people say things about you. Don't you get angry? Don't you want to beat them up? And I said no, your father is gifted with this.

That if you want to be famous, you take your dad's name. And I said the only persons I don't want to be famous by taking my name are you and your sister.

Let the rest of the world do that. And I truly mean that.

I hope that comes true. I endorse so many people free (laughs)! But surely statements such as Thackeray's must provoke you to respond? Sometimes I don't want to dignify things with answers.

And it takes a huge amount of self-restraint, patience, control, and love for your own family, to keep quiet. And dignity, and perhaps the status that I have in the eyes of the people.

I was told by Amitji once - we were sitting backstage for a show - beta, jab stardom aati hai na, koi bhi aadmi aa kar tumko thappad mar kar chala jayega. Tum use kuch nahin keh sakte.

Kyunki agar tumne kuch kaha, to tum ameer ho, gareeb pe apna dum daba rahe ho. Tumne sharab pi hui hai.

Tum gundagardi kar rahe ho. Tum arrogant ho.

Tum apne aap ko samjhte kya ho? He said these are the things they'll say. You have to keep quiet, put on your blinkers, keep walking.

And that is why successful people finally become a little reclusive. It's not the reclusion of loneliness; my reclusion is the reclusion of avoiding, of ignoring, of saying, let's move on.

Hemaji told me something like this long ago, when I was new. Somebody wrote an article which said that I'd said that Hemaji was not a good director - while I'd said nothing like that, but you know how press mein aata hai.

..

so I was very scared and I said, ma'am, I didn't say anything like that. Hemaji told me see, this means, either I am very famous, or you are very famous.

And my fame has sort of reduced now, so this means you've become famous, and now this will be part of your life. The other night, I met her for the launch of her film, and she asked me - you remember na everything I said? And I said, yes, I remember everything.

So, yes, success makes people - people not related to you or to your field - like to take a dig at you. Sometimes I go to social networking sites for a while and I'm like, arre! Kaafi personal ho gaya! Quite vicious, the online tenor can be, on a bad day.

Yes, very. But then, I'm like, this is maybe a small dusty man in a small dusty room, taking out his angst, his loneliness, by taking someone's name, abusing him, and feeling happy that his achievement has been recorded.

So then I feel I'm also a source of inspiration for them, even if in a strange, negative sense. God bless them.

There is no dearth of actors - stars, rather - who share your surname. But the "Nishan-e-Pakistan" sort of compliments are usually directed exclusively at you.

Why's that? (Laughs) I know, I know what you mean. Maybe I'm too flamboyant.

Maybe like my son, I don't answer back enough..

. But why are you a target of angst across the range - from the guy in the dusty room to irked political leaders? I think I invoke radical passions in people - and that is why I am such a big star! I'll walk out with you just now, and you'll have men, women, of all nationalities, just hugging me.

I think it is the same intensity on the other side, in those who don't like my face. And I will choose to believe in the hugs more than the hatred.

Just like Hyundai uses me, as a professional, a lot of people use me unprofessionally. I've become a free-for-all brand.

I hope they come out with a rule that they can't use a person's name without paying him for it! And the most irritating part of it is one word - opinion. You ask someone, how could you say this about him? And the answer is - it's an opinion.

You're a dog - that's an opinion. You're an actor - that's also an opinion.

You're a Muslim - that's an opinion. Anything can be twisted into an opinion.

That's not good. Ek "Trimurti" mein line thi - kabhi picture mein shoot hi nahin kari woh! - mujhe badi achhi lagti thi: "Jisko dekho mera baap banna chahta hai" (laughs).

It's a strange thing. Jisko dekho mera baap banna chahta hai.

Lekin theek hai. God bless them.

So long as my children don't want to be my baap, it's ok! "RA.One's" revenues have been the subject of much national debate the past week.

Yeah..

. right now, as we sit down and talk, it is supposed to be the highest grosser, as of five days.

The business is different - number of theatres, screens, audience going in big numbers..

. so obviously the reactions are also larger, more volatile.

The projectionists have also become part of the reactions - and they like to make projections telling you that agle din business itna achha nahin hoga. Everybody has become hugely associated with the tangibility of this business.

It is unfortunate that it is so; a film should ideally be allowed to breathe, to reach people at its own pace. That was the old style.

But if you release it in the new style, like we have, with 5,000 theatres, which is the American way of doing it - and the right way - because there are no longer Silver or Golden jubilees, there's only a weekend or two of business. In the future, all big films will release in 5,000 theatres.

In an earlier interview, you said that films and filmmakers are part of a strange art form which is only measured by the yardstick of commerce. And that dichotomy is one you have to live with.

..

You have to live with it, yes, you have to. Earlier, the business of films was not discussed on every platform.

Now, if I'm getting off the plane from LA, people come up to me and say, 'Sir, congratulations, what big figures!' Earlier they would come and say nice film, good role - now they talk about earnings. The applause is mixed with the jingling of coins, you have to hear both together.

It doesn't make me too happy. My heart doesn't crunch numbers.

But my business partners are happy - mazaa aa gaya reactions. I'm like, ok.

..

I think a film should be measured differently also. Is it the media's obsession with you vs Salman that got translated into the almost hourly comparison of "RA.

One" vs "Dabangg"? I don't think it's just the media, honestly. I think there is a section of people related to the trade who also talk in these terms.

A trade person or a producer, he'll tell you it did well, but it didn't quite do as well as that one, or better than that one on the second day, or whatever..

. I feel conversations are not viable anymore; it's just communication.

And communication boils down to monosyllabic terms. Yes, no, ok, good, like, dislike, bye, 170 (crores).

It is no longer ki kaisi lagi picture..

. Nobody converses.

Reactions are like, wow, thumbs up, smiley. New genres, new stories are like a new shoe for a day or two.

And I've been in the business long enough to know ki yeh joota theek ho jayega. Now it'll swerve to the opposite - these figures are unheard of, etc, etc.

I would not like to participate in either of these discussions, Day 1, Day 2, week..

. the messages I get are like, '7 crores on a Monday! Super duper!' The first four days are just about communication, then it comes to conversation about a film.

Appreciating a film is like opening a wine..

. good wine needs a little breathing before you drink it.

On the point of commerce vs art: Wouldn't you be remembered for a role like "Chak De" even if that wouldn't be a movie that made a fraction of the money that "RA.One" is making? No, I don't think so, I don't think that's a case in point.

I work for now. I don't work for two things - I don't work for posterity, and I don't work for prosperity.

Some people work for prosperity. I've worked for that.

But now I am prosperous, I am ok. And I don't work for posterity.

Yaar main yeh kya nishaan chhod ke jaa raha hoon? Because posterity is not created by you; it's created by talk, by cinema, by life itself. If you're working for either of the two, you're on a shaky wicket.

I work for NOW. I want to be untouched by this whole tangibility factor.

I was speaking to Lady Gaga, I had this long interview with her, and she said some very nice things. I really appreciated it because when I say those things, I sound as if I am philosophizing too much.

But she was saying the same thing. If finally someone were to give her a choice between giving up her money, her stardom, all that she's earned, or give up singing, she'd choose not to give up singing.

If someone were to give me the choice between giving up all my cars and my money and giving up acting, I'd say, yaar, acting karte rahenge, will let those go. Maybe if you are as successful as I am today, you have that choice.

Maybe that's not a choice one has in the first two years of one's career. But this is my reality today.

I don't work for the prosperity; yes, it happens along the way, Mashallah, it's very good for the business. And I don't think about posterity.

I will not think about posterity because I still haven't ended; I think my posterity will be when I sit down and start watching my own films, which I still don't do. Never? Never, yaar.

I can't watch my own films. I've kept that for old age - ki baith ke dekhoonga, kiya kyaa.

What is old age? Old age, for me? The way I'm going, about 140. That's what my friends say.

I'm 46 now - so about a hundred to go! Your dad was 50-something when he passed away. You've talked about thinking more of mortality, and of him, when you approach 50.

Yes, then I did. But now I don't.

..

because I am the healthiest I ever was right now. And I am also more relaxed.

In a happier space as a person. To me it's no longer about wanting to have my finger in every aspect of life, like I used to be maybe 15 years ago.

But ya, it is strange to think that my son today is as old as I was when my father died. I do get reminded of that, ya.

Not necessarily about mortality..

. but it's good to be reminded of that, too.

Like Steve Jobs said, if you know finally you're going to die, there seems to be no risk in anything you do in life. He said this when he had cancer.

I think our fear of mortality stops us from living life to the fullest. I am living my dreams - how many people get a chance to do that? Lady Gaga tweeted a picture with you and said 'screw Hollywood!' That must have made you happy! Yeah! Actually all the reviews of my movie in Hollywood are like that.

You should read the reviews in LA Times, New York Times..

. a journalist said to me, 'It's like we've been saying this for 8-10 years, suddenly, seeing "RA.

One", we're telling Hollywood, dude, even technically they're here now - and the cost is one-hundredth of your films.' I think it's a sign of the times, whether it's Akon or Lady Gaga, they all want to come to India.

In reverse, it took an Oscar for us to recognize the genius of a Resul. As to Lady Gaga, she's a sweet lady, really, really upfront, honest.

I spent three hours chatting with her. It was fantastic.

Simple, down-to-earth middle-class girl..

. 'Simple' and 'middle-class' are not the first words that come to mind when you speak of Lady Gaga.

..

An image. An image that's bordering on the bizarre.

And it's just an image. Amazingly intellectual.

A philosopher. She is very clear.

As a person, she is so deep, she knows the philosophy of the world, she ad verbatim knows the philosophers..

. It was a great learning experience - and I say that about very few people, more so those who are 25 years old.

She said a great thing to me. She said, an artiste's personal life should not be discussed beyond a point, because it somehow blunts the art of the artiste.

People start taking the art less seriously than the personality. She says my personality is me, my art is what you see - and they are two distinct, two clear thoughts.

Seeing her on stage, you expect her to be this really wild, vivacious girl - she's actually a calm, normal person who says her most interesting pastime is cooking food for her father whenever she's in New York. Middle-class girl.

She's very clear - I just want to sing. It was a fantastic learning experience for me, and it was also stuff that I completely believe in.

Whatever I am out here is for the people - I'll dance for you, I'll do a "Chammak Challo", I'll wear a tight suit and fly if that makes you happy. But in my personal life, I'm a deeper person.

So when you say silly things about me..

. I have to disassociate and say, these guys don't even know me personally.

So the comment is unfounded. This guy doesn't even know me.

I was flipping through an article and somebody had written, 'This is the most expensive mid-life crisis of a person'. Why are you talking about my mid-life crisis? What do you know about my crisis? Or where I am? Talk about the film - that's what you're paid for.

Review the film. Don't review my personal life.

I don't sell my personal life to you. Talk about the actor, don't talk about the person.

When you make a personal remark about me, without knowing me, I have to take it like that - it's your own issues in life maybe, you're just putting it upon me because iske paas yeh sab kyun hai, hamare paas kyun nahin. I guess it's just that, finally.

Are you still an outsider in the system after all these years? Well, if you look at it, I'm an outsider, which my son won't be, so maybe he'll have it easier..

. but it's not that.

I'm told that I may be coming across as rude. I'm not really very social.

Maybe it's because I don't bend. Maybe because even in the face of bad things, I'm smiling.

It irks people sometimes. They're like, saala, akele yeh sab kaise kar leta hai? I do that because I sleep less, I work harder.

Everyone finds a different reason for my success except the fact that I act. 'Yeh marketing guru hai yaar'.

'You know what, saale ki luck chal rahi hai'. Luck chal rahi hai, for 20 years? Haan, saala, bees saal se luck hi chal rahi hai! It's 'Arre wohi kare ja raha hai, love stories karta rehta hai'.

'Gaane nikal jaate hain iske; gaane achhe mil jaate hain saale ko'. 'You know what, Muslim audience bahut pyaar karti hai isko.

' 'Overseas! Overseas ki wajah se itna chalta hai.' They find strange reasons for my success.

But the real reason is - early to bed, early to rise, work my a** off, and advertize. It's as simple as that.

I am my one man walking talking team. I can handle 5-6 things at a time.

I can handle a cricket team, I can handle production, I can set up a VFX studio, I can make the most expensive film in the country. I can still come and launch a kabaddi tournament in Bhatinda and deliver a speech at Adasia which everybody loved and still go back home and celebrate my birthday with my kids.

And I can play video games with them. And I'm not tired.

And I'm everywhere. But your being everywhere was a point of much talk in the run-up to "RA.

One" - he's on every show, everywhere..

. And why not? An actor once told me - I won't name him - 'I don't like dancing at weddings'.

I said, and how often have you been invited to dance at weddings? The answer: 'I'll never do it'. I said, pehle chance toh mile! If I'm invited, if I'm put on people's shoulders, if I'm asked to be on, from "KBC", to whatever programme - if I'm called, I like to do it, I'm ok.

This is what I'm here for. I like doing that.

You do that if you're called. Just because you're not invited, don't run down my party.

I'm invited to every party. And I like to attend all of them.

And I enjoy myself. Life is beautiful.

I am beautiful. And the few things around me that are not beautiful - I like to think of them as nazarbattoos - tils.

Woh kehte hain na, tere chehre pe yeh jo kaala sa til hai, lagta hai daulat-e-husn pe darbaan bitha rakha hai. So yeh jo negative baatein karte hain mere baare me, yeh mere daulat-e-husn ke darbaan hain, mujhe nazar lagne se bachate hain.

You looked tired, run-down sometimes while being everywhere..

. I got tired.

I fell sick, actually. I got a bronchitis attack but I couldn't stop, film ke premieres they.

Then I was on antibiotics. Superstars don't rest, do they? I sleep an average of 30-35 hours a week.

Today I slept just an hour, but on the flight from LA, I slept for 16 hours straight. I guess it comes out to an average of 5 hours.

I don't sleep very early anyway. I like that time at night.

That's the only time I get to be with myself. No cars, no clothes, no films, nothing, just my thoughts.

That's important. People think insomnia hai, but it's not that.

I like that time - 2, 3am. You hear crickets, it's quiet.

I like that time of the night. For 20 years, when so much is asked of you, and you want to give it with happiness and love, you deserve that time by yourself.

I just sit quietly, I do nothing. I'll write, or surf channels, or read a really silly book.

That time, I feel, gets me ready for the next day, more than the sleep (less)

Aamir Khan's 3 Idiots collected Rs 5 crore across the border and the Shah Rukh Khan-starrer My Name Is Khan raked in Rs 5.25 crore.

The Salman Khan-starrer Bodyguard outdid them both by earning Rs 6 crore. Another Shah Rukh-starrer, Don 2, meanwhile, is expected to pull in Rs 7.

25 crore. In fact, some experts say Pakistan is now one of Bollywood's top five overseas markets and could soon rival the business done in Australia.

The ban on Indian films was lifted across the border in 2006, but things began really hotting up a year later. Riffat Siddiqi, a well-known distributor in Pakistan, said, "From the time the market opened up in 2007, Indian films became the source for rebuilding cinema in the country.

Within just four years, the entertainment business grew by 300% at the box office." Bollywood can't ignore Pakistan now as an overseas market.

Trade pundits said the business pattern in Pakistan is similar to that of the Punjab territory in India. When the ban was lifted, the John Abraham-starrer 'Goal' was the first new Indian release to open there in November 2007.

It released with seven prints, but within two years the print run of Hindi films multiplied thrice over. '3 Idiots', released in 2009, was shown on 22 screens.

'Don 2', released in 2011, had 38 screens. Currently, there are about 80 cinema halls there and trade pundits say another 20 could be added in two years.

About 50 Hindi films release in Pakistan now every year and the big ones have the ability to do business of US $1 million (Rs 4 crore to 5 crore) or more, said Pakistani sources. All the top Khan films are sold for $200,000 to $300,000 (Rs 1 crore to 1.

5 crore). Hrithik Roshan, Saif Ali Khan and Akshay Kumar films go for $75,000 to $150,000 (Rs 37.

5 lakh to 75 lakh), said experts. India-based Amrita Pandey, of UTV Motion Pictures, said, "I think the growth has been significant -- from no release before 2007 to now, where the box office gross for an average film is $400,000 (Rs 2 crore).

With 50 Hindi films releasing there every year, Pakistan figures in the top five of the international markets." Siddiqi added, "India has six territories and Pakistan has two, Sindh and Baluchistan is one and Punjab and Frontier the other.

The growth of cinema at the moment remains in Sindh and Punjab only. Around 60% of the cinemas remain in Punjab, like in south India.

" Mahesh Ramanathan, of Reliance Entertainment, who takes the credit for tapping the Pakistan market, said that some frontier areas are now opening up. He said, "We have been at the forefront of the rapidly expanding market in Pakistan for Hindi films with '3 Idiots', 'Bodyguard' and 'Don 2' setting new marks there.

The screen count is set to increase in two to three years, he added, and "Pakistan can rival a major international market like Australia for Hindi films". Pakistan's film industry was able to release only 10 films last year, but there is a chance these numbers will go up.

Pakistani film producer Sevy Ali said, "The government has made it mandatory for every mall that is being built to have a multiplex, which will help the business of cinema grow. We only released 10 films last year, but this year there will be 20.

" Incidentally, late last year there were calls from within the Pakistani film industry and media to ban Indian films so that local efforts would get a boost. Indian film producers have to look for partners outside the country to get their films into Pakistan.

India-based Vikas Mohan, vice president of the Association of Motion Pictures and Television Programme Producers, said, "Production house are releasing their films through partners in Dubai or London. Pakistan is capable of being a territory that can generate a revenue of up to Rs 15 crore for any big film.

Unfortunately, there are still unresolved issues which deprive both sides from benefitting from the business of cinema." In the past year, the increase in multiplexes and introduction of digital cinema has boosted the business.

Nadeem Mandviwalla, of Mandviwalla Entertainment in Pakistan, said, "Digital cinema boosted the film exhibition business in Pakistan with the release of 'Ra-One' and 'Don 2'. 'Don 2's' opening week was better than other films with a business of nearly Rs 4 crore.

" Earlier, Indian films were sold in Pakistan for only a few lakhs, but now the price of big films has jumped by more than 40%. Pakistani film distributor Amjad Rashid, currently in India to buy films, said, "Today, the price for Salman Khan films is the highest in Pakistan.

Shah Rukh Khan's latest release, 'Don 2', has done record business at the box office. The buying of their films is likely to double this year.

" Bollywood's official foray into Pakistan may have been a recent occurrence, but despite the over 40-year ban, Bollywood, its icons, its music and its dancing have always remained an integral part of life in Pakistan. Yusra Askari, a mediaperson in Lahore, said, "Bollywood's impact appears everywhere, from the mainstay of a Pakistani wedding to street lingo.

" She added. "In the past decade, Bollywood-based artistic exchanges between India and Pakistan have initiated increased cultural interaction between the two countries.

Bollywood has not only gained a huge fan following in Pakistan, it has often attracted aspirants and sometimes even Pakistani cricketing icons try their luck at filmdom." Despite an increased cultural dialogue between Islamabad and Delhi, visas to travel to India may be still hard to come by for the average Pakistani, Askari added.

"Nevertheless, Pakistanis can always rely on Bollywood cinema to bring home a slice of Mumbai magic," she said. Currently about half-a-dozen actors and singers work in Bollywood films.

Rashid said, "We have only been importing films. It is high time we started exporting Pakistani television serials, which are very popular, and also the music, a high point of Pakistani culture.

I feel there is a need for India to do business with Pakistan and there should be relaxations in granting visas to artistes." Filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, considered a cultural ambassador, added, "There is abundant talent in Pakistan crying to be discovered.

Indian cinema is moving from strength to strength. We can add new colour to our products by taking fresh talent from Pakistan.

We both stand to benefit if we partner one another and make a co-production." But there is also an opinion that the presence of Pakistani artistes won't really help a film.

Producer Ali said, "Pakistanis want to see the Khans or maybe an Akshay Kumar or Hrithik Roshan. A Pakistani actor is a novelty in India, not in Pakistan.

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"My family has a deep commitment to making and distributing quality films that entertain and enlighten audiences. I share that passion, as well as a love for American films that I have had since childhood.

It is that enthusiasm and my love of the creative process of filmmaking that drove me to start this new venture," Uday said in a statement. Uday has hired Jonathan Reiman to head development and production under him.

Currently, YRF Entertainment is producing and financing 'The Longest Week', a comedy film, with stars Jason Bateman, Olivia Wilde and Billy Crudup. Written and directed by Peter Glanz, the movie is being produced by Uday, along with Neda Armian.

The executive producers are Jonathan Reiman, Chris Marsh, Stone Douglass and Taylor Materne. The film tells the story of a bratty man-child played by Jason Bateman, who still lives with his parents in a Manhattan hotel, but suddenly finds himself evicted, disinherited and hopelessly in love with his best friend's heartthrob, played by Olivia Wilde.

The shooting for the film began last week in New York. Uday tracked down the project after the original financier had to abandon the film and immediately fell in love with the material.

YRF Entertainment is also building a slate of projects that it will develop and produce from the ground up. The first project the company will develop is an untitled action-comedy by Dan Ewen about two twenty-somethings, who run away from their podunk towns to pursue big dreams and become an unlikely but seemingly unstoppable duo after meeting serendipitously.

Back home, the parent banner Yash Raj Films continues to produce mainstream Bollywood films. Yash Chopra's eldest son Aditya's upcoming film Ladies vs Ricky Bahl , a romantic comedy, starring Ranveer Singh and Anushka Sharma is releasing on December 9.

Veteran filmmaker Yash Chopra returns to direction after almost seven years. The new untitled project will feature superstar Shahrukh Khan, Katrina Kaif and Anushka Sharma.

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In one theatre, a glass partition broke because of the mayhem; in another, cops had to be called to control crazed fans. The actor shares his thoughts.

..

"Agneepath" has taken a historic opening..

. It has gone beyond expectations! History used to be my worst subject in school, it has suddenly become my favourite now that "Agneepath" has created it (laughs)! I went to many theatres and sort of relived the "Kaho Na Pyaar Hai.

..

" (his first film) sensation once again, only this time I was able to absorb it better. The reactions were deafening but soothing at the same time.

The film is the first big hit of 2012..

. Till the release, I really didn't realise the extent of the risk we'd taken, and what we'd stand to lose if it didn't work.

Incredibly, that fear was non-existent throughout the making of the film for all of us. In retrospect, I think the script engulfed us totally, leaving no room for any other emotion.

We gave it our heart. So somewhere, it made complete sense that "Agneepath" has its own individual identity and stands apart from the earlier classic.

I'm completely overwhelmed, relieved, thankful for the kind of appreciation it's getting. What more can I say? Were you nervous on release day? Extremely nervous and empty.

Playing Vijay Dinanath Chauhan depleted me. I needed something to fill me up again before I started "Krrish 3".

I was afraid that if I didn't get that pat on the back, my next journey would be very tough. What's the best compliment you got? There were several nice moments.

The spontaneous hug from my dad in the middle of a conversation much after he saw the film, the tears of joy in my mom's eyes, Sussanne reminding me in her broken voice about the faith she had in me, my proud sister and grandparents..

. Anyway, all that is history now, I'm charged up and ready for the biggest challenge yet again.

Karan Johar says..

. "All of us at Dharma are ecstatic at the historic opening day collections.

It truly is director Karan Malhotra's vision that has made it all possible. Revisiting a cult classic is a daunting task.

He and his brilliant cast and crew have helped create box office magic" (less)

I salute him for that. I sincerely hope and wish that all his fasting and protesting does yield the desired results," said Ameesha Tuesday.

Hazare's fast at New Delhi's Ramlila Maidan for a stringent anti-corruption law entered its eighth day Tuesday. Ameesha, 36, who was here to launch a spa, scotched speculation that she was planning to foray into the small screen.

"Yes, I accept that the small screen is now no more small. Big and established stars are all joining the bandwagon.

But for me it's a no. I have not been approached for any television programme as I am busy with my upcoming Bollywood projects," said she.

Ameesha, who has shared screen space with major heroes like Hrithik Roshan and Salman Khan, is yet to establish herself in the industry in spite of being part of two record breaking movies - "Kaho Naa..

. Pyaar Hai" and "Gadar-Ek Prem Katha" with Sunny Deol.

After her brother Asmit featured in the reality TV show "Bigg Boss", there has been speculation of producers approaching her. "Yes, there are such rumors but let me make it very clear, I have not been approached for any TV show whatsoever.

" About her upcoming projects, Ameesha said: "There are four movies in the pipeline. One is directed by Priyadarshan and produced by my production house, then there is 'Race 2' by director-duo Abbas-Mustan, another directed by David Dhawan and one more yet undecided.

" (less)

The dabangg Khan refused to share screen space with his archrival Shah Rukh Khan in any way. However, when it came to sharing the spotlight with Hrithik Roshan and Sanjay Dutt, Salman did not seem to have a problem.

In fact, Sallu insisted on having Karan Johar's Agneepath trailer as a part of his forthcoming Eid release. Salman had asked Reliance not to include the Don 2 trailer in Bodyguard.

In fact, when the producers tried to reason things out with the actor, telling him that both films (Bodyguard and Don 2) belonged to Reliance, he retorted, “Bodyguard is my film as well.” “Salman and SRK are not friends.

It was obvious that Salman will not want the trailer of Shah Rukh Khan's film attached to Bodyguard. Salman would have said 'No' even if he had a guest appearance in the film.

His war with SRK is far from over,” said a source close to the Sallu starrer. The SRK-Salman war started on July 16, 2008 at Katrina Kaif's 24th birthday bash in a suburban nightspot.

A small argument turned ugly when SRK allegedly commented on Salman's ex-girlfriend Aishwarya Rai. While SRK's Don 2 trailer has been left out from Bodyguard, his good friend Karan Johar's Agneepath promo has been included.

And again, it was Salman who took the call. “It would have made more sense for Reliance to include the promo of Don 2, since it releases this December as opposed to Agneepath that releases in 2012.

but since Salman wanted it, the producers couldn't refuse,” revealed a source. Explaining why Salman chose Agneepath over Don 2, a source said, “Salman has been bonding with Karan Johar of late.

According to industry insiders, the actor will work in the Dharma Productions venture to be directed by Rensil D'Silva. Also, Agneepath stars Hrithik Roshan and Sanjay Dutt, two actors who had once had a spat with Salman but are now close to him.

” The final print of Bodyguard that releases this Eid will now have trailers of Agneepath, Luv U Soniyo and Hollywood film Real Steel. “There is neither a trailer or a promo of Don 2 in Bodyguard.

Salman did not want any mention of the SRK starrer in his film,” confirmed a source close to Sallu's film (less)

Excerpts from a Q and A with the papa-to-be. As the due date nears, you must be getting increasingly asked about the baby and fatherhood? Actually, I've been so busy shooting Bol Bachchan that I haven't really thought about it.

Parenthood is something that's going to happen naturally, so there's no point stressing over it. But you must have begun thinking of baby names and started shopping? Thinking about names is an ongoing process.

We don't know whether it's going to be a boy or a girl, but suggestions are more than welcome. We haven't started shopping yet.

Reportedly, you're taking paternity leave and have got your work schedule adjusted to be able to remain in town till some time after the birth. That the media has already decided for me.

I don't have the liberty to take time off. Of course I'll be around as and when the baby is born, but otherwise, I'm going to be working.

So will Abhishek make a strict daddy or a pampering papa? I think I'll be okay; not very strict nor will I allow the kid to get out of hand. I'll ensure that my children are down to earth.

Aishwarya also believes in the same. We'll bring our kids up to be good human beings and that's what my parents also taught me.

Your next film, Players , releases in the first week of January, earlier considered an unfavourable week to release. Earlier this year, your Dum Maaro Dum came to cinemas in the middle of the Indian Premiere League.

Almost every month, we see old myths broken. While those might have held true years ago, the audience's perception has also changed.

As a kid, I heard that monsoon was not a good time to release movies. Race released in the middle of IPL and became a runway hit.

Films like Kaho Na..

. Pyaar Hai , Rang De Basanti , and No One Killed Jessica released in January and did well at the box-office.

So many films released and broke records, which is proof that the audience is going to the theaters in large numbers. Do you feel the Bachchan surname brings greater pressure? It's strange I'm always asked about pressure considering that I'm doing the most number of movies.

I do films as per my convictions. People were looking forward to seeing you and Aishwarya on screen again in Rajkumar Santoshi's Ladies And Gentleman .

Has the idea been shelved and will it be made with another leading lady? Or will it mark Aishwarya's comeback after the baby? Rajji wanted to make it with Aishwarya and me. But after her pregnancy, he decided to put the film on hold and said that he will make it only when Ash is ready to work again.

Until then, Rajji and I have discussed four-five ideas. Tweet (less)

The Hrithik Roshan, Sanjay Dutt and Priyanka Chopra-starrer, directed by debutant Karan Malhotra, is set for release Thursday, and here's what B-Town had to say about it: Arjun Rampal: It was mind blowing. It's a superb film.

Go and watch Agneepath. You guys are going to be blown away.

Zayed Khan: All the performances are fabulous. Finally, superb kind of movies are back.

It's amazing. Hrithik, Sanjay, Priyanka, everybody was outstanding.

Arbaaz Khan: I think the director has done a fantastic job and it's a very good remake of the earlier Agneepath . Sanjay's performance is fantastic, Hrithik is looking very good and he has acted very well as well.

I think the star of the film is the director. Dino Morea: I think the remake that they have made is amazing.

Hrithik and Sanjay have done a fabulous job. It was fantastic.

Tweet (less)

. does it make you feel superior to others? I know I am sexy.

But being sexy is all about attitude, not body type. It's a state of mind.

To me, an intelligent girl with a positive attitude and a great smile is sexy..

. and she could well be wearing a salwar-kameez.

In our profession, sometimes being overtly sexy can be a handicap. You don't really know if the men are just looking at you as a sex kitten or actually paying attention to you.

But yes, I am glad I can carry off a sensuous avatar on screen. I work on my body to stay fit, but that does not make me superior to anyone.

I am a forthright and hardworking girl. Your Miss-Goody-Two-Shoes image has withered.

The whip is now in your hands..

. I have struggled a lot and put in tremendous amounts of hard work to reach this phase in my life.

Believe me, it's not easy being an actress and a producer, especially with no big daddy to support you. I love the fact that I am not arriving on someone else's sets.

I have a say on when the camera will roll and what it will shoot. I am proud that I did not succumb to industry pressures or bend my morals.

You have bagged a steamy role in " Race 2 ". Age doesn't seem to be catching up.

Yes, I will be seen in "Race 2" soon. As for my looks, my friends keep telling me that with every new candle added on my birthday cake, I regress in age.

I think it's the effects of positivity within me. I eat healthy, I don't smoke and follow a good exercise regime.

I have always been my grandmother's pet child. She passed away at 92 but didn't look a day over 60.

Looking back, you went underground post "Kaho Na Pyaar Hai" and "Gadar". Do you regret losing out on meaty roles in the years since? I never really went without action.

"Kaho Na..

." and "Gadar" have been top grossers in the Hindi film industry.

I played Saif Ali Khan's love interest in "Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic" (remember "Lazy Lamhe"), and "Bhool Bhulaiyaa" was a hit too. I was approached for "Billu" but the role finally went to Lara Dutta.

Priyadarshan felt I looked too young to play a mother to two kids. If you could turn back time, what would you erase from the past? Honestly, I would erase nothing.

Life is all about evolution. What looks like a mistake to others has been a milestone in my life.

Even if people have betrayed me, even if my heart was broken, even if people misunderstood or judged me, I have learned from these incidents. We are human and we make mistakes, but learning from them is what makes the difference.

I have learned to live my life from my grandmother. Her fire and grit showed me the way ahead.

Not too long ago, Bipasha Basu and you wore the same dress at a red carpet event. How did you take that? I had got this dress specially made by my friend and designer Ramona Narang Rodella.

The mix up wasn't her fault. Apparently, some junior assistant gave away the same dress in a different colour for a film with Bipasha, but she decided to wear it on the red carpet.

No actress wants to be in a situation like this obviously, and people went a little crazy writing about it, but Bips and I laughed it off. I am over that incident.

Your sartorial preference is known to be sexy..

. I have had a fabulous upbringing.

My family lived in Mumbai and London , and we travelled all the time. The exposure really boosted my confidence and dressing style.

I am not a fashion victim. I pick what I feel comfortable in.

I love shoes and handbags. In fact, I have an enviable collection.

I love dressing up. I know what suits me and looking sexy is a compliment.

Dressing up and looking good is effortless for me. How do you keep in shape and take care of your long tresses and skin? I eat healthy, work out and sleep well.

I don't go overboard and do not abuse my body. I use besan on my skin, oil my hair and use raw eggs as a pack.

I also like to hit the spa when I can. I go for facials and massages too.

Anyone you fall back on during bad times? I have a set of 10-15 rock solid friends. I laugh with them, cry with them and often seek their advice.

I can count on them always. My business partner Kuunal Goomer is my best friend.

We share the same tastes in music, fashion and films. And finally, when my production house Ameesha Patel Productions happened, we became a natural team.

What kind of space are you in right now? I am a child, but I am sorted. I know my priorities and values.

I stay happy by doing things my way. I celebrate my birthday with a lot of excitement, like a child.

..

sending out invitations six months in advance! I enjoy the whole drama of cutting a cake, singing songs, dancing and then unwrapping presents. It's the fun element in our lives that keeps us going.

I have decided to make films that can entertain the entire family. It's time to bring back the 'Fun Day' concept.

And you know what, I will damn well do it! (less)

Had the match been in Mumbai you could have found me in the stadium cheering like any other fan. I am a big fan of this lovely sport," said Ameesha, who was in Kolkata for the launch of Somi's Glowz Spa.

Argentina will take on Venezuela at the Salt Lake stadium in the first ever FIFA official friendly international match in India. Argentina will also play Nigeria September 6 in Dhaka.

About the city, Ameesha said: "I love this city, it's so vibrant and always on the move. People here are so loving and caring.

But traffic here is just impossible. I thought only Mumbai traffic was bad but here it is worse.

" The actress also said she loves to gorge on 'misti doi' and 'rossogolla' and this time too she has had a generous amount of the Bengali delicacies. With Durga Puja round the corner, will she be here to grace the occasion? "I would love to.

..

I have heard so much about the Puja. It's the biggest festival here.

It coincides with the Navratri celebrated in Maharastra with equal pomp." The actress, who made her debut with blockbuster Kaho Naa.

..

Pyaar Hai opposite reigning star Hrithik Roshan, has started her own production house which is coming up with a Priyadarshan directed movie starring her. Tweet (less)

One . Review: Agneepath While Salman Khan's Bodyguard earned Rs 22 crore, superstar Shah Rukh Khan's mega-budget RA.

One made Rs 18 crore on the opening day. But the Hrithik Roshan and Sanjay Dutt-starrer remake of the 1990 film of the same name, which released Thursday, has gone beyond.

Hrithik, who stepped into the shoes of megastar Amitabh Bachchan as Vijay, is excited that his hard work has paid off. "WOW!!!! THANK u THANK u THANK YOU!!!!!!!!! Agneepath 1st day - 25cr!!!! My damaged bodyparts suddenly feel ALIVE, I feel like I can FLY now!!! Thank u people, I have the fuel now to make KRRISH EXPLODE!!!!" Hrithik wrote on his Twitter page.

Sanjay Dutt and the film's lead actress Priyanka Chopra, are equally delighted with the positive response, and have thanked fans for the amazing response to the film. " Agneepath has redefined the power of Indian box office for all of us.

It's heartening to see the strength of the Indian cinema audiences growing like this. We all were very confident of the film but for this kind of success and unprecedented number that it has posted on day one we must thank our audience," said Priyanka.

Sanjay took to Twitter after a year, to share his sentiments about the appreciation towards the movie, and his role as the villain, Kancha Cheena. "I am overwhelmed with the response and support of everyone.

Thank you for loving me so much," he wrote. Since Agneepath was a Republic Day release, the theatres witnessed 90-95 per cent occupancy.

"The film has had an excellent opening. The occupancy was around 95 per cent.

It was the most eagerly awaited and would be one of the biggest blockbuster," said Anant Verma, director and business head, DT Cinemas. However, he says it would be unfair to compare the new Agneepath with the original as they have been given a completely different treatment.

"You can't compare the two films as they are shot differently and have different characters also. There is no connection between the two other than just the name," he added.

Yogesh Raizada of Waves Cinema adds that all the characters have done complete justice to their characters. "The response to the film has been rocking on first day.

We have had 90 per cent occupancy. All the actors have done complete justice to their characters whether it is Rishi Kapoor as Rauf Lala, Hrithik as Vijay or Sanjay as Kancha Cheena," said Raizada.

The film, directed by debutant Karan Malhotra, and produced by Karan Johar, is expected to have a successful run at the box office in the coming days. "Since there is no big movie releasing in the coming weeks, the film will work well," he added.

Tweet (less)

My Name is Khan had collected 191,000 pounds on the opening day in Britain. The film is also on its way to becoming the highest grosser in the Middle East.

It has collected $1.6 million in the first two days, just a little behind the previous highest grosser Dabangg which collected $1.

7 million. "Reliance Entertainment's overseas team is delighted to have delivered one of the biggest overseas hits of the year.

Bodyguard is poised to be a record-breaking success for Salman Khan in the international markets," Sanjeev Lamba, CEO Reliance Entertainment said in a statement. The film, which also stars Kareena Kapoor in the lead, has earned $3.

8 million in the US and is expected to overhaul the $5 million collections of Dabangg . Tweet (less)

..

he lives, inside us, around us. A journey such as his should be rejoiced, not mourned.

Of course, we'll miss his physical presence terribly, but his magic lives on within you and me..

.and I will make sure my sons know the superstar their dad admired and loved the most," Hrithik said in a press statement Monday.

Shammi, who enthralled Hindi cinema buffs with movies like "An Evening in Paris ", "China Town", " Kashmir Ki Kali ", "Janwar" and "Junglee", was on dialysis for the last few days. At 79, he breathed his last early Sunday morning.

He was cremated Monday. Hrithik, the son of Rakesh Roshan , says "Rest In Peace" would not be the right thing to pray for the dancing king.

"For you I don't want to say R.I.

P, but rather D.I.

H ..

.dancing in heaven now.

..

I love you," he added (less)

Karan Johar's remake of his father's 1990 film "Agneepath", which stars Hrithik Roshan , Priyanka Chopra , Sanjay Dutta and Rishi Kapoor in the lead roles, has garnered positive response at the ticket window. Rishi, 58, is one of the villians in the movie and wears kohl (kajal) in his eyes, a karakul cap and kurta-pajama to fit into the Muslim character he plays.

Vaswani, who worked with Rishi Kapoor in " Aa Ab Laut Chalen ", wrote: "A legend in his lifetime, son of a legend ( Raj Kapoor ), grandson of a legend (Prithviraj Kapoor) and father of a man ( Ranbir Kapoor ) who will be legend! Rishi Kapoor. And 'Aa Ab Laut Chalen' will always be a highlight of my career.

Directed by Rishi Kapoor, 60 days in Manhattan, and friends made for life." (less)

We don't have enough screens that can help a film sustain for a longer period of time," Farhan, 38, told IANS in an interview on phone from Mumbai. In the past decade, the economics of filmmaking has got a complete makeover, especially with the box-office business reducing to just the opening weekend collections.

"The first weekend has become the deciding weekend, which is unfortunate, although there were films that have done well in the second week like 'Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara' after people went and spoke about it. It is a very trade mindset.

One needs to understand that a film takes time to grow," he added. "Don 2", the sequel to Farhan's 2006 action thriller "Don - The Chase Begins", is ready to hit the screens Dec 23 and he says he will roll out the marketing exercise from Dec 12.

"Marketing is not just about spending money. Whether they are small-budget films or big budget films, it is important to make people aware of the USP of the film.

You need to bring out that potential and think out of the box on how to make people aware about the film," Farhan said. "It is very important to reach out to as many people as possible because so much is going on constantly.

So much information is already available through television, mobile, iPads etc. It is important to break through the clutter and reach out to the audience," he added.

The son of veteran lyricist Javed Akhtar and actress and writer Honey Irani, Farhan's entry into Bollywood with the 2001 blockbuster "Dil Chahta Hai", which starred Aamir Khan, Akshaye Khanna and Saif Ali Khan, reformed the filmmaking process. He continued it with "Lakshya" and "Don".

When he decided to walk around and face the camera for "Rock On", he earned points for his performance. While Shah Rukh Khan, Priyanka Chopra and Boman Irani reprise their roles as Don, Roma and Vardhan respectively, "Don 2" also has some additions in the cast - Lara Dutta, Kunal Kapoor and model Sahil Shroff.

Underlining the highlights of "Don 2", Farhan says it doesn't have any similarity whatsoever to the part one. "The new film is very different from the previous one.

It's a whole new story and whole new chapter of the evolution of Don as a character. I have had the chance to work with some amazing actors and had a lot of fun making it," he said.

"Primarily the film has been shot in Berlin, Malaysia and also in Mumbai. One would get to see a lot more action sequences than the previous one.

You will see more of quickpaced action in the film with a real and gritty backdrop. It was really hard because 'Don' is already an established franchise," he added.

Like "Ra.One", Farhan will release "Don 2" in both 2D and 3D format.

"It has been a wonderful experience converting the film into 3D. Reliance MediaWorks had shown us a wonderful demo of the format after which we decided to convert the film.

Everyone on board worked together and the film has worked out nicely," said Farhan. "However, the audience is still very selective when it comes to 3D.

This format has been around, probably since 1980s; however, somehow it was not up to the mark. Now with technological advancements, the standard has reached a certain level where we can use it more appropriately.

I think a lot can still be done towards this," he added (less)

A source informed that a massive set that replicates Mumbai's Bandra Kurla Complex has been set up for 'K2' over a period of few months in the Film City. The film's lead pair, Hrithik Roshan and Priyanka Chopra , are in Hyderabad for the film's shooting.

The actor tweeted, "Gratitude 4 all d love that keeps pouring my way..

.thank u! Time now to reset to zero n build up to my next firewalk!! En route hyderabad Krrish3 - wish me luck guys! Cheers!", just three days after Hrithik visited cinemas in Mumbai to get a taste of the audience's response towards 'Agneepath' (less)

Barbara who met the actor during her modelling days, when she was barely 20 but did not tie the knot with him and she moved on to acting in Mexican telenovellas and later in movies. The child is not accompanying her for the Mumbai shoot of Kites even though she landed in town with her mother, sister and brother.

Barbara and her son appeared in a ‘drink milk’ Hispanic ad campaign in 2007. Both mother and child sported a milk moustache.

It was part of the ‘Think Before You Drink’ drive. As a mother, said Barbara.

??As a mom, my job is to teach my son good nutritional habits so that he can grow up healthy and strong. So his nutrition is my priority.

It??s my whole life. I taught him to drink three glasses of milk a day since he was little and now he does it on his own and likes it too!?.

Barbara was selected to star in Kites by producer Rakesh Roshan and director Anurag Basu as they wanted to provide the project with an international touch. She plays a Latino girl who is in love with an Indian, played by Hrithik.

Sphere: Related Content Posted in (less)

After watching the "Agneepath" trailer, Chopra is more convinced of Hrithik's range as an actor. Karan Johar , who is producing the remake of his father, Yash Johar's 1990 blockbuster, said: "Yes, Yash uncle loved the promo.

He loves me and is always super excited about eveything I do - just like papa used to be. Yash uncle is a great source of encouragement and big support system to me.

" (less)

He's super excited to have his fans watch his film and is going all out to make sure it's promoted on every level. He has even shot a promo for a sports channel for the India Australia series, which is now known as the Agneepath Series.

The promo of the film has audiences excited and generated great buzz about the project. As part of the markerting strategy, he also launched the Mandwa Samachar, a 'newspaper' that also serves as the film's press kit and will be given to audiences across all theatres.

Co-star Sanjay Dutt is equally excited and this is the first time he is actively taking a keen interest in the promotions. With marketing whiz Karan Johar's expertise, the film is already high on buzz and is the year's most keenly anticipated release (less)

This seems to be the exact reason why Katrina Kaif, Chitrangada Singh and Jacqueline Fernandez opted out of the superhero project. A source said, "Priyanka Chopra is the resident heroine of the franchise and is also known to be very close to the Roshans.

Other heroines were bound to feel insecure. So, Katrina, Chitrangada and Jacqueline, all of whom audaciously stepped in, then stepped out, because of Priyanka's presence.

" The source added, "The other heroine's role in the film requires 120 days of shooting from the actress plus rigorous physical preparation. Katrina said no without a second thought.

Chitrangada and Jacqueline were persuaded to join in. But once they realised that playing the character required huge amounts of physical preparation and filming time, they opted out.

" The actresses apparently expressed the same fear to friends that after Agneepath , the Hrithik-Priyanka jodi would be played up at the other heroine's expense. Despite all this, Kangana has now stepped in to play the second actress.

A source said, "Kangna apparently had a very bad experience with the Roshans when her role in Kites was slashed in favour of Barbara Mori. It just goes to show how much guts the girl has.

" Rakesh Roshan maintained, "Kangana is doing the Krrish sequel." Tweet (less)

However, Murray was reportedly left baffled when he turned up for the event on the wrong night, but laughed off the error and stayed to watch a screening of Pedro Almodovar's new film The Skin I Live In . Tweet (less)

Lifetime achievement to be conferred on Gulzar. Prize money of USD 200,000 to be awarded for competition sections.

� The 13th Mumbai Film Festival announced an impressive line-up of about 200 films under various sections for the festival today at a press conference held by Mumbai Academy of Moving Image (MAMI) chairman, Shyam Benegal, trustee Amit Khanna and�MFF director Srinivasan Narayanan. Scheduled to be held from 13th to 20th October with Cinemax Versova as the main hub of the festival and screenings programmed at Metro Big Cinemas and Cinemax Sion, the 13th Mumbai Film Festival will showcase the best of truly global cinema.

Shyam Benegal, Chairman, MAMI announced that the Brad Pitt starrer 'Moneyball' will be the Opening Film at the festival and Morgan Freeman starrer 'Dolphin Tale' will be the Closing Film. Among the spectacular list of films that will have their� India premieres include the highly talked about 'Melancholia', directed by Lars Von Tier, 'The Whistle Blower' starring Rachel Weisz, George Clooney's 'The Ides of March' and 'Pina' directed by Wim Wenders amongst many others.

�Announcing this line up of movies, Shyam Benegal, Chairman, MAMI said, "A feast of films awaits you at the 13th Mumbai Film Festival. We are extremely proud of the fact that Mumbai Film Festival is fast getting recognized to be the best international film festival in this country.

" � In addition to impressive list of films being screened under the non-competitive sections of the festival, an equally powerful list of films will compete under the three competition sections; International Competition for the First Feature Films of Directors, Dimensions Mumbai and Harmony Celebrate Age for a total of USD 200,000 which will be awarded to the winning films as prize money.�Srinivasan Naryanan, Festival Director, 13th Mumbai Film Festival said, "This year the selection committee had its task cut out for them.

They had to choose from over 800 films to finally zero down on such a closely competitive line-up." An eminent panel of international Jury members including Hugh Hudson (Jury president, international competition), Roger Spottiswoode,� Jerzy Skolimowski, Na-Hong Jin along with Indian Jury members Basu Chatterjee (Jury president, Celebrate age), Kiran Rao (Jury president, Dimension Mumbai), Onir, Nishikant Kamat, Sushasini Mulay, Renuka Shahane, Mukesh Bhatt, Avantika Akerkar, Vikramaditya Motwane will adjudge the� winning films under the various competition sections.

The 13th MFF will pay tribute to cinematic legends Shammi Kapoor, M.F.

Hussain and Mani Kaul with a special screening of their works. Additionally a film retrospective of Jury President, Hugh Hudson's works will be screened, including 'Revolution Revisited' and 'I Dreamed of Africa' amongst others.

Noted poet, lyricist, script writer and director, Gulzar will be presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 13th Mumbai Film Festival (less)

The Hrithik Roshan , Sanjay Dutt and Priyanka Chopra-starrer, directed by debutant Karan Malhotra, is set for release Thursday, and here's what B-Town had to say about it: Arjun Rampal: It was mind blowing. It's a superb film.

Go and watch "Agneepath." You guys are going to be blown away.

Zayed Khan: All the performances are fabulous. Finally, superb kind of movies are back.

It's amazing. Hrithik, Sanjay, Priyanka, everybody was outstanding.

Arbaaz Khan: I think the director has done a fantastic job and it's a very good remake of the earlier "Agneepath". Sanjay's performance is fantastic, Hrithik is looking very good and he has acted very well as well.

I think the star of the film is the director. Dino Morea: I think the remake that they have made is amazing.

Hrithik and Sanjay have done a fabulous job. It was fantastic (less)

Had the match been in Mumbai you could have found me in the stadium cheering like any other fan. I am a big fan of this lovely sport," said Ameesha, who was in Kolkata for the launch of Somi's Glowz Spa.

Argentina will take on Venezuela at the Salt Lake stadium in the first ever FIFA official friendly international match in India. Argentina will also play Nigeria September 6 in Dhaka.

About the city, Ameesha said: "I love this city, it's so vibrant and always on the move. People here are so loving and caring.

But traffic here is just impossible. I thought only Mumbai traffic was bad but here it is worse.

" The actress also said she loves to gorge on 'misti doi' and 'rossogolla' and this time too she has had a generous amount of the Bengali delicacies. With Durga Puja round the corner, will she be here to grace the occasion? "I would love to.

..

I have heard so much about the Puja. It's the biggest festival here.

It coincides with the Navratri celebrated in Maharastra with equal pomp." The actress, who made her debut with blockbuster Kaho Naa.

..

Pyaar Hai opposite reigning star Hrithik Roshan, has started her own production house which is coming up with a Priyadarshan directed movie starring her. Tweet (less)

"In 2011, a very important film of mine like 'Tanu Weds Manu' came and even 'Double Dhamaal' did well. Even those films which didn't do too well, my work was appreciated in them.

So, it could be a landmark year for me," said Kangana at the launch of an eye wear here. "And now the kind of films I have signed.

..

I have already signed big franchises like 'Ishqiya', 'Krrish', and 'Tanu Weds Manu'..

.so I have good projects.

..

even 2012 could be a landmark year for me," she added. The list consists mostly of sequels, but Kangana is not complaining.

"It is just coincidence. I have been quite lucky to have such franchises that are definitely going to get a lot of attention and good opening weekends because the earlier sequences have been so popular and successful," she said.

Kangana's last release was " Miley Na Miley Hum" opposite debutant Chirag Paswan. She will start 2012 with the release of "Tezz".

Directed by Priyadarshan, the film also stars Anil Kapoor, Zayed Khan, Mohanlal and Ajay Devgan. After debuting with 2006 movie "Gangster - A Love Story", Kangana also featured with Hrithik Roshan in "Kites" and won National Award for her performance in "Fashion" (less)

It was by chance that he stumbled upon a book on numbers and was so intrigued and fascinated that he went on to read more than 100 more books on the subject. Slowly and gradually he learnt the art soon finding himself amidst the likes of Manmohan Desai who was suggested (by dad) to join hands with Amitabh Bachchan .

The rest is history! Even though there were people who would come to him for a 'free' consultation, Pappa had not thought of making this a profession as he had three children including two daughters to marry off and didn't want to be branded a 'Jyothishi'! But he shed these inhibitions once his children married. However, it wasn't as easy as it looked; he had to really go from pillar to post to convince people that it's a 5,000 year old Science and not just some numbo-jumbo! It took a long time for acceptance, a good seven years or so before a film distributor and friend, Farhad Nathani was convinced, and that too not too easily.

He made my dad make predictions for upcoming releases for a year and seeing a near 90 per cent accuracy, he introduced Rakesh Roshan who was about to launch son Hrithik. Two 'A's in Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai not only made it a cult film grossing them a lot of moolah, it even earned the Roshans over 100 awards; they now have a room built specially to stack these honours! Roshan senior introduced my dad to a bubbly girl in her teens named Ekta Kapoor who was in the process of launching Balaji Telefilms.

Koshish Ek Pariyaas became Koshish Ek Aasha, Ky'o'nki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu thi became Ky'u'nki Saas..

.Kkusum with a double 'K' made some laugh at Ekta but she laughed all the way to the bank! Her belief paid off, thanks to her, the entire TV industry went through a revolutionary change and now the livelihoods of so many are dependent on the same! Some of the top running serials including Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii, Kasauti Zindagi 'Kay' (instead of 'Ki') Jassi Jaisi Koi Nahin, Taarak Mehta Ka Oolta Chashma, Bigg Boss, Uttaran, Jhhalak Dikhhla Jaa etc have been spelt by us.

Some of the believers include Tusshar, Emraan Hashmi, Kirron Kher, Vipul 'Amrutlal' Shah, (Aankhen, Waqt, Namastey London , Singh Is Kinng) Ronit 'Bose' Roy, Krushna, Jaaved Jaafery, Sunali Rathod, Anu Malik, three Slumdog Stars, Anil Kapoor , Irrfan, Jai Ho Choreographer Longinus, Sunjoy Wadhwa (producer-Balika Vadhu) and over half a dozen leading Indian cricketers have benefited from their mastery! Salman Khan who is on a roll ever since the biggest hit of 2010, Dabangg with the extra 'G' & again an extra 'G' was suggested in Bigg Boss too & Ajay Devgn, who after dropping the 'A' from Devgan has given the most number of hits since 2010! The RTO is not far behind making a staggering sum (read - millions) on many who opt for their 'lucky' numbers! I was not a believer till 2001 but after struggling to make ends meet, my mom and wife convinced me to consult my dad. Sanjay Jumani became Sanjay B Jumaani.

Soon (in six months) I found myself quitting my 17-year-old sales job to team up with my father. Yes, life has turned around for me! Thanks to my dad, lakhs of people are enjoying the fruits of the powerful science, so much that many other numerologists have mushroomed! But 17 years ago, it was not even a distant dream to even think of writing for a coveted and leading newspaper like Bombay Times! (less)

The dabangg Khan refused to share screen space with his archrival Shah Rukh Khan in any way. However, when it came to sharing the spotlight with Hrithik Roshan and Sanjay Dutt, Salman did not seem to have a problem.

In fact, Sallu insisted on having Karan Johar's Agneepath trailer as a part of his forthcoming Eid release. Salman had asked Reliance not to include the Don 2 trailer in Bodyguard.

In fact, when the producers tried to reason things out with the actor, telling him that both films (Bodyguard and Don 2) belonged to Reliance, he retorted, "Bodyguard is my film as well." "Salman and SRK are not friends.

It was obvious that Salman will not want the trailer of Shah Rukh Khan's film attached to Bodyguard. Salman would have said 'No' even if he had a guest appearance in the film.

His war with SRK is far from over," said a source close to the Sallu starrer. The SRK-Salman war started on July 16, 2008 at Katrina Kaif's 24th birthday bash in a suburban nightspot.

A small argument turned ugly when SRK allegedly commented on Salman's ex-girlfriend Aishwarya Rai. While SRK's Don 2 trailer has been left out from Bodyguard, his good friend Karan Johar's Agneepath promo has been included.

And again, it was Salman who took the call. "It would have made more sense for Reliance to include the promo of Don 2, since it releases this December as opposed to Agneepath that releases in 2012.

but since Salman wanted it, the producers couldn't refuse," revealed a source. Explaining why Salman chose Agneepath over Don 2, a source said, "Salman has been bonding with Karan Johar of late.

According to industry insiders, the actor will work in the Dharma Productions venture to be directed by Rensil D'Silva. Also, Agneepath stars Hrithik Roshan and Sanjay Dutt, two actors who had once had a spat with Salman but are now close to him.

" The final print of Bodyguard that releases this Eid will now have trailers of Agneepath, Luv U Soniyo and Hollywood film Real Steel. "There is neither a trailer or a promo of Don 2 in Bodyguard.

Salman did not want any mention of the SRK starrer in his film," confirmed a source close to Sallu's film (less)

"My family has a deep commitment to making and distributing quality films that entertain and enlighten audiences. I share that passion, as well as a love for American films that I have had since childhood.

It is that enthusiasm and my love of the creative process of filmmaking that drove me to start this new venture," Uday said in a statement. Uday has hired Jonathan Reiman to head development and production under him.

Currently, YRF Entertainment is producing and financing 'The Longest Week', a comedy film, with stars Jason Bateman, Olivia Wilde and Billy Crudup. Written and directed by Peter Glanz, the movie is being produced by Uday, along with Neda Armian.

The executive producers are Jonathan Reiman, Chris Marsh, Stone Douglass and Taylor Materne. The film tells the story of a bratty man-child played by Jason Bateman, who still lives with his parents in a Manhattan hotel, but suddenly finds himself evicted, disinherited and hopelessly in love with his best friend's heartthrob, played by Olivia Wilde.

The shooting for the film began last week in New York. Uday tracked down the project after the original financier had to abandon the film and immediately fell in love with the material.

YRF Entertainment is also building a slate of projects that it will develop and produce from the ground up. The first project the company will develop is an untitled action-comedy by Dan Ewen about two twenty-somethings, who run away from their podunk towns to pursue big dreams and become an unlikely but seemingly unstoppable duo after meeting serendipitously.

Back home, the parent banner Yash Raj Films continues to produce mainstream Bollywood films. Yash Chopra's eldest son Aditya's upcoming film Ladies vs Ricky Bahl , a romantic comedy, starring Ranveer Singh and Anushka Sharma is releasing on December 9.

Veteran filmmaker Yash Chopra returns to direction after almost seven years. The new untitled project will feature superstar Shahrukh Khan, Katrina Kaif and Anushka Sharma.

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It will feature Hrithik Roshan yet again and talks are going on with Deepika Padukone for the part of the leading lady. Sphere: Related Content Posted in (less)

Excerpts from a Q and A with the papa-to-be. As the due date nears, you must be getting increasingly asked about the baby and fatherhood? Actually, I've been so busy shooting Bol Bachchan that I haven't really thought about it.

Parenthood is something that's going to happen naturally, so there's no point stressing over it. But you must have begun thinking of baby names and started shopping? Thinking about names is an ongoing process.

We don't know whether it's going to be a boy or a girl, but suggestions are more than welcome. We haven't started shopping yet.

Reportedly, you're taking paternity leave and have got your work schedule adjusted to be able to remain in town till some time after the birth. That the media has already decided for me.

I don't have the liberty to take time off. Of course I'll be around as and when the baby is born, but otherwise, I'm going to be working.

So will Abhishek make a strict daddy or a pampering papa? I think I'll be okay; not very strict nor will I allow the kid to get out of hand. I'll ensure that my children are down to earth.

Aishwarya also believes in the same. We'll bring our kids up to be good human beings and that's what my parents also taught me.

Your next film, Players , releases in the first week of January, earlier considered an unfavourable week to release. Earlier this year, your Dum Maaro Dum came to cinemas in the middle of the Indian Premiere League.

Almost every month, we see old myths broken. While those might have held true years ago, the audience's perception has also changed.

As a kid, I heard that monsoon was not a good time to release movies. Race released in the middle of IPL and became a runway hit.

Films like Kaho Na..

. Pyaar Hai , Rang De Basanti , and No One Killed Jessica released in January and did well at the box-office.

So many films released and broke records, which is proof that the audience is going to the theaters in large numbers. Do you feel the Bachchan surname brings greater pressure? It's strange I'm always asked about pressure considering that I'm doing the most number of movies.

I do films as per my convictions. People were looking forward to seeing you and Aishwarya on screen again in Rajkumar Santoshi's Ladies And Gentleman .

Has the idea been shelved and will it be made with another leading lady? Or will it mark Aishwarya's comeback after the baby? Rajji wanted to make it with Aishwarya and me. But after her pregnancy, he decided to put the film on hold and said that he will make it only when Ash is ready to work again.

Until then, Rajji and I have discussed four-five ideas. Tweet (less)

At least professionally. When faced with personal questions about rumours of her special friendship with Shah Rukh Khan, the actress fidgets and declares, "I will not talk about this.

I shall never talk about this." However, when it comes to her films, the actress doesn't shy away from answering.

About her upcoming Dharma Productions venture 'Agneepath', the actress gushes, "I am nervous and excited. Reports have been brilliant.

They have liked Hrithik (Roshan), Sanju ( Sanjay Dutt ) and my work. More than anything, they have loved the film.

I'm very proud of Karan (Malhotra, the director) as this is his first film and I'm his first heroine. For me, it's not a remake.

I hadn't even seen the original 'Agneepath' till I signed this film. Also my role has been written fresh.

" And this film strengthens her bond with Karan Johar and Dharma. She had earlier worked with the production house in 'Dostana'.

Though she is not doing 'Dostana 2', "My love story ended in the first part when I walked away with Bobby Deol" being the actress' reason for the same, her relationship with the production house has remained. "Miami to Mandva.

It was lovely working with Dharma again. As an actor, you don't involve yourself with the production much.

You're closer to the director," says the actress. Despite her proximity to Dharma, her relationship with Yash Raj Films is reportedly not as strong.

Rumour has it that Yash Raj did not keep its promise of offering her a big film after she agreed to do a small project 'Pyaar Impossible'. However, the actress maintains that it wasn't YRF she was working for but Uday Chopra Productions.

Good with a section of the industry and not too close to the rest, this is Priyanka's career graph in a nutshell. However, with single minded determination and what trade analyst Amod Mehra calls 'luck' the actress despite being shunned some, has managed to maintain her position in Bollywood.

The actress has also tried to hold on to the few 'good' relations she has in the industry. For example, despite delivering an award winning performance for Madhur Bhandarkar in 'Fashion', the filmmaker's next project 'Heroine' finally had Kareena Kapoor.

But the actress doesn't begrudge him that. "I couldn't have done that role.

Working on a similar plot did not make sense for Madhur and me. We spoke about the film several times.

I'm glad that Kareena's doing it. Both of them will work very well.

" Priyanka puts up a brave front on her reported alienation from the Salman Khan camp. "I have worked with every co-actor possible.

I don't come from a film background. I don't have relationships with people in terms of uncles and aunts.

I have been an outsider. Wherever I'm today is due to the support of this film industry.

They have given big films and amazing work to me. It hasn't been because of any director, production house, actor or a person.

I have never been a part of any camp. I respect every co-actor tremendously and equally.

I would work with anyone," declares the actress. As for her not having worked ever with the third Khan of the triumvirate, Aamir, she simply laughs, "Ask Aamir.

If the offer hasn't come to me yet, what can I say about it?" While in hushed tones, insiders do cite her friendship with Shah Rukh as the reason of her alienation from the other Khans, when questioned about her rise and rise in Bollywood, they all agree upon one thing - her professionalism. According to Suneel Darshan, who gave her the first break with 'Andaaz', " Priyanka is not the conventional beauty like Kareena Kapoor.

Despite that, she has done very well for herself. Knowing well that the perks of stardom can be really high, she has set her goals accordingly.

There is determination written all over her face. When it comes to her, there is hardly anything left between the apple and the arrow.

" But trade analyst Amod Mehra feels differently. "Kareena is number one.

Katrina is on number two. And Priyanka who was once on the second position is now on number three.

That's because Priyanka has made all the wrong choices and given many flops - '7 Khoon Maaf', 'Kaminey', 'What's Your Rashee', 'Drona'. I would say that she has been lucky," says Mehra and adds, "Also, she has limited choices.

Her big star bracket is restricted to SRK and Hrithik. Salman doesn't want to work with her.

Aamir hasn't worked with her yet. She hasn't worked much with Ajay Devgn.

And she can't work with Akshay Kumar." Filmmaker Ratan Jain who worked with Priyanka in 'Aap Ki Khatir' however seems to be almost on the same page as Darshan.

Maintaining that films in Bollywood depend on the male actor, Jain says, "Priyanka is a very popular actress. She is an excellent performer too.

Else, why would she be cast in so many movies? Note that she has also improved her acting abilities over the years." (less)

. Pyaar Hai | Hrithik Roshan | Agneepath SHARE AND DISCUSS Tweet Hrithik Roshan More Pics Hrithik Roshan has tasted big success after a long time with " Agneepath " and the Bollywood heartthrob says the overwhelming response to the movie has motivated him and he is geared up to take up more challenges now.

Directed by Karan Malhotra, "Agneepath" is the remake of Amitabh Bachchan-starrer 1990 film of the same name, which was not a commercial success. But producer Karan Johar's decision to give it a makeover is paying him rich dividends - the film's opening day collection was Rs.

23 crore. Excerpts from an interview: 'Agneepath' has taken a historic opening.

..

. History used to be my worst subject in school and it's suddenly become my favourite now that "Agneepath" has created it! You visited different theatres.

..

. Yes, I visited theatres and kind of re-lived the 'Kaho Naa.

..

Pyaar Hai" sensation once again, only this time I was able to absorb it better. I went to Chandan, PVR and of course Gaiety.

The reactions were deafening and soothing at the same time. "Agneepath" is the first hit of 2012.

Comment. It's weird because until the release of the film, I really didn't fathom what we were up against! I really didn't realise the extent of the risk we had taken and what we would stand to lose if it had not worked? Incredibly, that fear was non-existent through the making of the film for both Karan Malhotra and myself.

In retrospect, now we agree that it was because of the script, which had totally engulfed us as artistes leaving no room for any other emotion to fester. We gave it our heart.

So somewhere it makes complete sense that this "Agneepath" has its own individual identity and stands apart from the earlier classic. I am completely overwhelmed, relieved, thankful for the kind of appreciation it's getting.

Were you nervous on release day? Yes, extremely nervous and empty. Playing Vijay Dinanath Chauhan somewhere depleted me I guess.

I needed something to fill me up again before I started " Krrish 2 ". I was afraid that if I didn't get that pat on the back, my next journey would become extremely tough and burdened.

Anyways all that is history now, I'm all fuelled up and ready for the biggest challenge yet again. The best compliment you got? The spontaneous hug from my dad in the middle of a conversation.

The tears of joy in my mom's eyes, Sussanne reminding me in her broken voice of the faith she had in me - my proud, proud sister and grandparents. I still feel like a newcomer and every time the people who I look up to from the industry have a nice thing to say about me, it fills my heart with joy.

It feels good to belong to a world where we can give and receive love without agenda or ego. Also it becomes my biggest source of motivation (less)

One . Review: Agneepath While Salman Khan's Bodyguard earned Rs 22 crore, superstar Shah Rukh Khan's mega-budget RA.

One made Rs 18 crore on the opening day. But the Hrithik Roshan and Sanjay Dutt-starrer remake of the 1990 film of the same name, which released Thursday, has gone beyond.

Hrithik, who stepped into the shoes of megastar Amitabh Bachchan as Vijay, is excited that his hard work has paid off. "WOW!!!! THANK u THANK u THANK YOU!!!!!!!!! Agneepath 1st day - 25cr!!!! My damaged bodyparts suddenly feel ALIVE, I feel like I can FLY now!!! Thank u people, I have the fuel now to make KRRISH EXPLODE!!!!" Hrithik wrote on his Twitter page.

Sanjay Dutt and the film's lead actress Priyanka Chopra, are equally delighted with the positive response, and have thanked fans for the amazing response to the film. " Agneepath has redefined the power of Indian box office for all of us.

It's heartening to see the strength of the Indian cinema audiences growing like this. We all were very confident of the film but for this kind of success and unprecedented number that it has posted on day one we must thank our audience," said Priyanka.

Sanjay took to Twitter after a year, to share his sentiments about the appreciation towards the movie, and his role as the villain, Kancha Cheena. "I am overwhelmed with the response and support of everyone.

Thank you for loving me so much," he wrote. Since Agneepath was a Republic Day release, the theatres witnessed 90-95 per cent occupancy.

"The film has had an excellent opening. The occupancy was around 95 per cent.

It was the most eagerly awaited and would be one of the biggest blockbuster," said Anant Verma, director and business head, DT Cinemas. However, he says it would be unfair to compare the new Agneepath with the original as they have been given a completely different treatment.

"You can't compare the two films as they are shot differently and have different characters also. There is no connection between the two other than just the name," he added.

Yogesh Raizada of Waves Cinema adds that all the characters have done complete justice to their characters. "The response to the film has been rocking on first day.

We have had 90 per cent occupancy. All the actors have done complete justice to their characters whether it is Rishi Kapoor as Rauf Lala, Hrithik as Vijay or Sanjay as Kancha Cheena," said Raizada.

The film, directed by debutant Karan Malhotra, and produced by Karan Johar, is expected to have a successful run at the box office in the coming days. "Since there is no big movie releasing in the coming weeks, the film will work well," he added.

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Christened Khiladi Kumar after his first blockbuster, Akshay Kumar slowly but steadily rose to stardom. Completing 20 years in Bollywood, the actor recalls his struggle to the top, marriage to superstar Rajesh Khanna's daughter and missing his own father.

"I was in my gym swinging from the monkey bars, the day I officially completed 20 years in the industry. Honestly, I didn't know what to feel.

Back then, I never thought I would still be making movies 20 years down the line. I remember taking my family for the first screening of my debut film thinking, 'There you go, this is enough to make them proud'.

Their happiness gave me the strength and determination to try harder every day. At every screening, since my first, the smiles on their faces make all the pain and effort seem worthwhile," recalls the actor.

Born in Amritsar, raised in Delhi and then working as a chef in Bangkok , Akshay had no connections to the film industry. And after his initial break, the actor had to try really hard to create his own space in the industry.

"No matter how much you are loved or respected, the minute you lose focus, or make a small mistake, people will tear you apart. One has to deal with it.

You give your best, stay immune to gossip and think only about your goal. "The best way to survive in this industry is to be the person 'you' want to be and do what 'you' feel is right," adds the actor.

It was like a fairytale for Akshay when having found his foothold in the industry; he won the heart of superstar Rajesh Khanna's daughter Twinkle. "Every man's ultimate dream is to marry the woman he loves.

But for me, marrying a woman born to a world I could only dream about..

.was something else.

My soul mate was waiting for me here. Had I not made an effort to get where I am in life, I may never have met Twinkle - the one woman who made me the man I am and the father I was destined to be.

" Even after twenty years in the industry, Akshay doesn't let people get too close to him. "No one has got close enough to use or abuse me and even if they did, I wouldn't get too emotional about it.

The only thing I ever get emotional about is my family. I am kind to everyone but I trust no one.

That keeps me from getting hurt," reveals the actor. Even today, the one person Akshay misses is his father, late Hariom Bhatia.

"I miss him more in happier times. When the going gets tough, I think about all that he ever taught me.

But in happier times, I miss him more. I miss not sharing my happiness with him.

Every day I wish my father could see me with my son Aarav. That's when I miss him the most.

Work is work, but family is for life. That's what really matters to me," concludes the Khiladi of Bollywood.

Akki's rise to stardom 1991: Makes a humble beginning with Saugandh 1992: Success strikes with Khiladi 1992: Enters the big league, signs Yash Chopra's production Yeh Dillagi 1993: Gets the best actor nomination for Yeh Dillagi 1995: The Khiladi era begins: strikes gold with films like Sabse Bada Khiladi and Khiladiyon Ka Khiladi 1997: Best supporting actor nomination for yet another YRF venture Dil To Pagal hai 2000: Khiladi decides to jump to a new genre, stars in Priyadarshan's Hera Pheri 2005: Wins an award for best performance in a comic role for Garam Masala 2007: Launches his own production house Hariom Productions 2007: His best year ever with four consecutive hits (Namastey London , Heyy Babyy , Bhool Bhulaiyaa and Welcome) and no flops at the box office 2008: Becomes Bollywood's highest paid actor and makes his small screen debut with Khatron Ke Khiladi - Fear Factor (less)

Asked whether Agneepath will change his image as an actor, the 38-year-old says, "This is not in my hand. We are doing everything possible to make the film a success.

I don't believe in an image change. I only do films that I like and never think whether or not a movie will change my image.

" "In case of Agneepath I feel it is the hardest film that I have done ever..

.especially the climax scene.

I can't talk much about it; you all must go and see it," said Hrithik, who tasted success last year in Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara . Agneepath , a remake of the Mukul Anand-directed Hindi film of the same name, is produced by Karan Johar and helmed by Karan Malhotra.

The film, which will hit cinema houses on January 26, stars Priyanka Chopra as the female lead, while Sanjay Dutt would play the villain's role, originally essayed by Danny Denzongpa. "She (Priyanka) is a superb co-star and a very special person.

She is the best person to work with. When she is on film sets, the environment turns very positive," Hrithik added.

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Can you imagine how that would unite us! Can you see the pride in that! How beautiful that would be!" He revels in the fact that our country is independent and progressive but what bothers him is that we are not free in our minds as individuals and fear judgement by others. Tolerance and compassion towards ourselves and then for others is what can truly free our minds.

Ruling out feelings of guilt, anger, ridicule and inferiority, he says, "Today most of us are governed by a different kind of tyranny - of what the society will say." He stresses, "Freedom is to be free to just be yourself.

We must recognise ourselves with all our imperfections, and know that everybody else is just the same. We need to love, live and let live," Hrithik implores.

Sharing his fondest Independence Day memories, he says that those are pretty recent and were with his reality show contestants. "Coming from various castes and creed, these beautiful people performed together for India.

And I laughed, cried, danced and even sang, though completely out of tune, but in the true spirit of freedom - I didn't care a damn." (less)

So congratulations to team", tweets KRK. Agneepath had a starry screening last night" amazing screening for Agneepath last night with the cast n crew.

. karan malhotra take a bow! Kaali Aali re aali", tweets excited Priyanka Chopra .

Sanjay Dutt , Hrithik Roshan and Priyanka Chopra's starrer Agneepath is the remake of the 1990 Hindi film 'Agneepath'. The story revolves around Hrithik Roshan who takes an oath to bring back the glory of his fathers name and take revenge against Kancha Cheena.

The movie is all set to be released on 26 th January. Sources indicate that the film has reportedly costs its makers around 62 cr, with print and publicity the film has already recovered around 35 cr from the sale of satellite rights; 15 cr from the overseas rights given to Eros International and also approximately 10 cr from music and other rights.

Let's wait and watch whether it will break Bodyguards' first day record or not (less)

5-8 crore (all-India net collections) on Monday (January 31). The Hrithik Roshan starrer had collected Rs.

67 crore over its four-day weekend. This takes its 5-day tally to Rs.

74.5-75 crore.

Multiplexes have shown more of a decline in collections than single screen cinemas. The film, produced by Karan Johar and directed by Karan Malhotra, is a remake of the 1990 Amitabh Bachchan starrer Agneepath.

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In fact, this time around, Hrithik will be seen in his muscular best. The actor who first dropped a few sizes for Zoya Akhtar's Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara and then gained it all back for Karan Johar's Agneepath by consuming as many as 22 eggs a day, has started training under Satyajit Chaurasia for his forthcoming film, Krissh sequel.

A source informed Mumbai Mirror, "Hrithik has to undergo muscle maturity now. Woh kafi lean ho gaya hai.

He has to gain some weight for Krissh sequel." And the man assigned for the job is his physical trainer, Satyajit Chaurasia.

The training will start 14 days from now. Revealed the source, "Hrithik did gain weight for Agneepath.

But now that he finished the portions where he was supposed to look bulky, he has again become lean. He needs to follow a strict diet plan and exercise regimen to get into the shape his father Rakesh Roshan wants for the sequel to Krissh.

" When contacted, Chaurasia said, "Yes, Hrithik will undergo training to increase his muscle maturity. I will be with him on it.

" Hrithik has a deadline too. Krrish 2 goes on floors in a month.

Hence, Hrithik will be undergoing at least 4 hours of training every day. Added the source, "As Hrithik starts with his training from mid-October, he will have only a month to meet the requirement.

Knowing Hrithik's involvement and passion for every project he undertakes, it shouldn't be difficult. Tough, but not impossible.

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When we caught up with Dharam paaji in the capital, he said, "Malik ne itna pyaar diya hai ki bas man karta hai wohi pyaar mein logon mein baant ta rahoon. I'm writing the book for everyone who loves me.

I want to tell my story to the people who look up to me for inspiration to point out that if I can do it, so can anyone else." But why in Urdu? "That's because Urdu is a very beautiful language.

Aur kyunki maine Urdu padhi hai, mujhe lagta hai ki jo main kehna chahta hoon, woh main iss bhasha mein bohot asani se sabko keh sakta hoon." Speaking about what readers should expect from the book, Dharam paaji said, "I write when I get emotional.

And I can analyse myself through my writings. Also through this whole process, I feel I am reliving my life - going through all those emotions, struggles, achievements and everything - all over again.

" Recalling a few episodes, Dharamendra said, he fondly remembers the time when his daughter (from his first marriage) Vijeta was getting married. He said, "You know how houses are in Mumbai, there is always a space crunch.

So, when my daughter was getting married, I had so many guests that I was finding it very difficult to accommodate each and every one of them. But then Yash Chopra came to the rescue.

Yash and I are neighbours and we have a common wall between our lawns. So, during that time, Yash told me, 'let's break this wall, so that all your guests can move around and enjoy freely.

' And we actually broke that wall and combined the lawns. This gesture of his touched my heart and it is one that I will never forget.

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6 million)-mark in 2011. And, sure enough, a pot of gold lay at the end of the rainbow year thanks to the "real hero" Vidya Balan.

Bollywood rediscovered hits with "Bodyguard", " Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara", "Ready", "Singham" and "Ra.One" this year.

According to Box Office India, while Salman Khan's "Bodyguard" and "Ready" collected Rs.229 crore and Rs.

179 crore respectively, multi-starrer "Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara" raked in Rs.152 crore.

Ajay Devgn's "Singham" joined the jakpot with Rs.139-crore earnings.

Made at a budget of over Rs.60 crore, Ranbir Kapoor-starrer " Rockstar" is expected to earn Rs.

105 crore while Shah Rukh Khan's "Ra.One", the first of its kind in terms of technological use, pocketed Rs.

240 crore. "It has been a very positive year.

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this year has proved fruitful with more hits than last year," film historian S.M.

M. Ausaja told IANS.

It won't be wrong to say that the Vidya- and Rani Mukerji-starrer "No One Killed Jessica" - the first big release of the year - turned out to be the lucky mascot. Based on the Jessica Lall murder case, it brought the masses and classes to the theatres and the footfalls did not stop thereafter.

Made at a budget of Rs.10 crore, it grossed Rs.

49 crore. 2011 can also be called Vidya's year.

She came dancing on "Ooh la la" as the sex symbol Silk Smitha in "The Dirty Picture" and rocked the box office. The film earned rave reviews and earned Rs.

66 crore net in the first 11 days. The joyride wasn't for biggies alone; small fry too cruised happily side by side.

The approximate earnings of "Yamla Pagla Deewana", "Tanu Weds Manu", and "Delhi Belly" were Rs.87 crore, 54.

50 crore and Rs.89.

50 crore respectively, while their budgets were Rs.26 crore, Rs.

17.5 crore and Rs.

25 crore respectively. Also "Chalo Dilli", "7 Khoon Maaf", "Shor in the City" and "Force" walked away with critical acclaim.

The content of "Stanley Ka Dabba" and "Pyaar Ka Punchnama" too got a thumbs up. "Small budget films doing well at the box office is another good sign, as at least new producers and directors will get motivated.

People used to be scared of making such films because there was no audience. But the audiences have opened up and they are largely appreciating the content," said Ausaja.

"Films like 'No One Killed Jessica' or 'Delhi Belly' are niche films and their star value has added to the saleability. It's nice to see that people are experimenting and their experiments are reaping benefits at the box office," said film critic Omar Qureshi.

In between, the box-office journey was impeded by the poor response to "Patiala House", "Game" and "Dum Maaro Dum", but only temporarily. The industry witnessed many changes this year - extensive use of technology, the focus on weekend collections and aggressiveness in film promotion.

"The business no longer spreads across 25 weeks. It has come down to weekends and I would say that this year's movies have been able to capture the weekend very well.

No movie gives you enough time. It just dazzles you.

It is either good or bad," said Qureshi. Ausaja pointed out that the revenue expanded because "marketing and promotion tactics turned aggressive.

Then there are so many mediums available - whether it is the internet, mobile or television. The number of screens has increased.

" Filmmakers adopted macro marketing devices like live concerts and travelling to two-tier and three-tier cities to create awareness about their films. "Marketing plays a crucial role in telling the audience what a film stands for.

The strategies have indeed changed. We have now moved away from a micro-marketing approach," said Priti Shahani, chief strategy and marketing officer, Reliance Entertainment.

"It is important to have a consistency between content and communication for the audience. Connecting with the audience is of paramount importance.

We now release films on as many as 2,000 screens and it becomes important to get the audience," he added. There were moments of sorrow and pain when luminaries like Shammi Kapoor and Dev Anand bid their final adieu.

Filmdom also halted to mourn the death of Jagmohan Mundhra, Jagjit Singh, Bhupen Hazarika, Manish Acharya and Gautam Rajadhyaksha. "Don 2 - The King Is Back" will be the last big release of the year and trade analysts are optimistic that the box office will reach its zenith with it (less)

If Bollywood's knight in shining armour bailed the industry out in 2009 and 2010, he boosted the box office business this year too with "Bodyguard" and "Ready". In both, neither the content was premium, nor were the performances superlative, but what helped the actor stand out were the big bucks his films yielded at the box office, strengthening his position as a bankable star.

2) Aamir Khan : What one missed in Salman Khan's films was prominently present in Aamir Khan-starrer "Dhobi Ghat". Aamir wowed his fans as a lonely painter in the directorial debut of his wife Kiran Rao, who deftly handled a bouquet of stories, travelling across various sections of society in the lanes and bylanes of Mumbai.

The actor had just one release, that too, consciously designed for niche audiences, but everyone eulogised it, saying, "Wow! What a performance! What an actor!" If that were not enough, Aamir was admired for daring to produce adult comedy "Delhi Belly" and the film's success further strengthened his image in volatile Bollywood . 3) Ranbir Kapoor: If his great grandfather, grandfather and parents are admired and respected for their cinematic genius, Ranbir Kapoor has proved that he is a true torch-bearer of the Kapoor khandan.

The youngster excelled in his only release " Rockstar ", which was marred by a bad script. His role required a range of emotions and he stood out in every scene and kept the audiences hooked.

4) Shah Rukh Khan: Romance is his forte! But this time Shah Rukh Khan donned the garb of a superhero in "RA.One" to woo his fans.

Though the film was not appreciated much for its content, his fans liked him as a geek scientist and as a superhero. He also earned praise for the use of technology, innovative marketing and promotional techniques to promote his product.

5). Amitabh Bachchan: Retirement? No way, says Big B.

Instead he is grabbing central roles at the age of 69 and this year too he came out with two films "Bbuddah Hoga Tera Baap" and "Aarakshan" - as different as chalk and cheese. If the former saw him as a flamboyant underworld don, the latter featured him as a college principal fighting for the rights of students.

In terms of business, neither were money spinners, but as far as acting is concerned, Amitabh is Amitabh. He was terrific in both the roles and critics gave him a thumbs up.

6) Farhan Akhtar: When there is a huge star cast, it is not easy to make an impression. But Farhan Akhtar did that in " Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara ", which also starred Abhay Deol and Hrithik Roshan.

The art of acting is all about sensitivity, emoting, feelings -and Farhan got them all right. 7) Hrithik Roshan: Usually seen in over-the-top roles, Hrithik Roshan for the first time did a role that was slightly offbeat and closer to reality.

If "Kites" didn't allow him to fly high in the sky, his performance in "Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara" helped him unleash his potential as an actor. 8) R.

Madhvan: An NRI, who belongs to a middle-class family, returns home to find a wife. He encounters a drunken girl, who is not interested in marrying him.

But her spirit is such that he falls head over heels in love with her and it becomes heartbreaking for him to let her go with some other guy. Madhavan not only suited the role, but he revelled in it, earning plaudits from both critics and fans.

9) Abhay Deol: He emerged as the dark horse. Be it a doomed lover in "Dev D" or a smart thief in "Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye", he has effortlessly carried his roles in the past.

He continued his winning streak as a confused lover in "Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara". 10) Saif Ali Khan: This Khan showed his sparks in "Omkara" and after that he embarked on a journey that showed his versatility.

This year he had just one release in "Aarakshan", which was not a super hit, but the film's box office performance didn't overshadow Saif's work. Critics felt he scored very highly in sincerity, subtlety and sheer screen presence as a Dalit boy in the movie, highlighting the reservation issue.

(Arpana can be contacted at arpana.s@ians.

in) (less)

While Aamir, Dilip Kumar , Big B and the creme-de-la-creme of B-town attended Boman Irani's son's wedding, Hrithik skipped this B-town shaadi for another one. The Roshan boy is very fond of Boman, and though he knew that most of the Bollywood brigade would converge for this one, there was another shaadi that he simply couldn't miss.

Hrithik is very close to his staff, and when his secretary from many years, announced that his daughter was tying-the-knot the same day as Boman's son, Hrithik quickly changed plans and promised that he'd be there. Not just that, he was more than a guest, or a special guest at the wedding.

Along with the father-of-the-bride, he left his stardom aside, and played a host to the baraat. Well, that's what makes him a superstar, hai na? (less)

Barbara who met the actor during her modelling days, when she was barely 20 but did not tie the knot with him and she moved on to acting in Mexican telenovellas and later in movies. The child is not accompanying her for the Mumbai shoot of Kites even though she landed in town with her mother, sister and brother.

Barbara and her son appeared in a ‘drink milk’ Hispanic ad campaign in 2007. Both mother and child sported a milk moustache.

It was part of the ‘Think Before You Drink’ drive. As a mother, said Barbara.

??As a mom, my job is to teach my son good nutritional habits so that he can grow up healthy and strong. So his nutrition is my priority.

It??s my whole life. I taught him to drink three glasses of milk a day since he was little and now he does it on his own and likes it too!?.

Barbara was selected to star in Kites by producer Rakesh Roshan and director Anurag Basu as they wanted to provide the project with an international touch. She plays a Latino girl who is in love with an Indian, played by Hrithik.

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Always. Cheers!" Hrithik posted to Farhan on Twitter.

Don 2: The King Is Back features Shah Rukh Khan, Priyanka Chopra, Lara Dutta and Boman Irani in key roles. Farhan, who is city hopping with the team for promotions, thanked Hrithik for his kind words.

"Thanks Hrithik. You're support since the DCH (Dil Chahta Hai) days has given wind to what could have become a flagging sail.

Mucho respeto amigo," tweeted Farhan. Tweet (less)

So I better be in the best shape. So all of you pray for me, pray for my health," said the actor, who turned 38 on Tuesday.

Krrish 2 is the sequel to 2006 superhero film Krrish , directed and written by Hrithik's father, Rakesh Roshan. The cast and crew of the film have already wrapped up the first schedule.

"I am very happy because the script is very, very good and papa is very happy for the first schedule because it has gone very well. It was difficult but we managed," said Hrithik whose journey with supernatural thrillers began with Koi.

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Mil Gaya in 2003. Meanwhile, Hrithik's fans are eagerly awaiting Agneepath , which releases Jan 26.

He plays Vijay Dinanath Chauhan, a role essayed by the legendary Amitabh Bachchan in the 1990 that won him national award for his power-packed performance. Krrish 2 is expected to hit theatres by the end of 2012.

It also features Priyanka Chopra, Vivek Oberoi, Kangana Ranaut and Riya Sen. Tweet (less)