Not at all! In fact the first film that comes to my mind when I see Akshay Kumar and John Abraham together is Garam Masala because that got them together for the first time. But let me tell you that Desi Boyz is not in the same space as Dostana or even Garam Masala.

Just because it's a film about male bonding, it doesn't have to be like Dostana. After two films with Akshay Kumar we were expecting your pairing with him over John Abraham.

Exactly! Even the audiences would have assumed the same which would have made it a predictable casting. So director Rohit Dhawan thought there would be fresh chemistry with the pairing of John and me.

So did you miss sharing screen-space with Akshay Kumar? I didn't actually, because in the film we three (Akshay, John and me) team up to do a lot of things together. So we have a lot of common scenes.

How pampered were you by the Desi Boys? Oh, I was extremely pampered, especially by John who likes taking care of everyone close to him. Akshay Kumar of course has been a great support.

Though I might have not done my first film with him, he was there for me in the initial stage of my career. I have done two big films with him and so there is that familiarity and comfort factor between the two of us.

Without being diplomatic and if you had to choose only one - who would you say is hotter between Akshay and John? I think it's an invalid question because both are good looking guys and extremely charming. Does Rohit Dhawan take ahead his father's style of comedy filmmaking? It is too soon to say how good a filmmaker he is or whether he is like his father or not.

Of course he has learnt a lot from David Dhawan and other filmmakers since he has grown up in the industry. But, I would say, he has an identity of his own and Desi Boyz is entirely his film.

There were stories that you and Chitrangda Singh shared cold vibes. I think these are just stale boring gimmicks and the publicist of film should think of some innovative ideas to promote the film (less)

"The transformation from being an actor to a producer has been difficult. A producer's job is very demanding.

It is not my cup of tea, it is not my job, I know this for a fact," Suniel told IANS in an interview. "It is difficult to maintain relationships in this business.

A lot of misunderstandings happen and also there is too much stress. I don't think I want to be connected with stress," he added without revealing whether he will discontinue with the moviemaking business.

The macho actor made his entry in 1992 with "Balwan". A Black Belt in kickboxing, he did a string of action-packed movies such as "Waqt Hamara Hai", "Mohra", "Suraksha", "Shastra", "Rakshak", "Krishna", "Aakrosh" and "Dus".

Apart from action and comedy, he worked in patriotic outings like "Border" and "LOC: Kargil". But his ultimate aim is that people should remember him as a good human being.

"Twenty years is a long time to have survived in this industry. And it is the most important thing for me.

I worked with my heart and soul. There have been highs and lows but the day I retire or I get out or I am pushed out - I would want people to say that he was a good actor, but more than that he was a good human being," he said.

"That's why I also make a conscious effort that I don't hurt anybody," added Suniel who has been entertaining audiences for the last two decades. The actor even made a good on-screen team with action stars Akshay Kumar and Ajay Devgn in the 1990s, when actors had to take a lot of risk to make action scenes work.

But Suniel feels nowadays working in actioners is not as risky as it used to be. "Now the action has been made sleeker, easier and better.

Kids (young actors) don't have to break their bones like we had to. They don't have to jump from the fifth floor, they easily come down on cables or they just act as if they are jumping and the green screen does everything.

We did things ourselves. We were men then, and they are boys now," he said in a bold voice.

Pondering over the present scenario of the film industry, he concludes that masala movies are making a comeback. "The movies that are being made now are quite similar to the ones we had during the early 1990s.

The masala films, with action, fights, villain, hero and the beautiful heroines. It's a nostalgic feeling.

"Though we don't have the real 'villain character' any more, which were played by Amrish Puriji and the iconic Gabbar. Now the actors are trying to do everything in a film.

But films like 'Dabangg' and 'Singham' have really played an important role in letting us relive our old days," said the actor whose next big screen outing will be "Chai Garam" (less)

It stars Virender Singh Rathod, Suhani Oza, Tannishtha Chatterjee and Nawaz. Along with the actor, the film is co-produced by Anil Lad, Chirag D Shah and Mahaveer S Jain.

This Sundial Pictures film will have a worldwide release in early 2012. Vivek says he decided to produce the film because he was impressed with Chirag and Mahaveer's passion, "I saw so much passion, dedication and single-minded love in them for this film.

When they told me that they wanted me to come on board as producer, I readily agreed. It was my proudest moment when the film won at Busan.

" Adds Amil Lad, "This film will make India proud." Chirag D Shah adds, "Dekh Indian Circus is an Indian film with the sensibilities of world cinema.

" Mahaveer S Jain says that films like Mother India, Lagaan and Tare Zameen Par have proved that commercial Indian cinema can garner applause from a global audience. While Mangesh Hadawale says, "The film is set against the backdrop of the 15th Lok Sabha elections.

The protagonists are a rural family who dream of watching an Indian circus and revolves around how difficult it is for them to spend even Rs 15 per ticket." (less)

Rohit's sister who is also into dress designing is getting engaged to Ajay's personal designer Naveen Shetty. Naveen is an established name in Bollywood and started his career with Suniel Shetty.

He started doing clothes for Ajay and Sanjay Dutt recently. In fact Ajay has taken such a shine to Naveen after he did work with him on Tezz; that he has started using Naveen for all his films including Bol Bachchan and Son of Sardar (less)

If I ever do an action film, I would love to do something that Salman does. For that I would have to work very hard on my body but I'll try to do that," Ali told reporters here.

The 31-year-old, who made his Bollywood debut with a small-budget blockbuster Tere Bin Laden , went on to grab a role in Yash Raj Films' Mere Brother Ki Dulhan . Currently he is filming for yet another Bollywood venture London Paris New York , being produced by Goldie Behl and Shrishti Arya and helmed by newcomer Anu Menon.

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As an actor, post the accolades he got for ZNMD, new doors are being opened to him. Excerpts from an interview.

Your performance in ZNMD got you noticed as an actor by both the trade and the janta. I admit a lot more awareness has been created about me as an actor.

It's nice to be present in people's consciousness as a casting option now. You are no longer just a casting option.

There are roles being written for you. No one ever comes and tells me they've written a role for me.

So it is dangerous to start thinking like that. It is better not to let your mind wander into these areas.

But yes, I am happy that Rakeysh Om Prakash Mehra thinks that I am best suited to play Milkha Singh in Bhaag Milkha. So Rakeysh did think of you while writing the part.

..

Actually, as filmmakers we tend to write a script with an actor in mind. When I was writing the first part of Don, I wrote it with a certain actor in mind.

When I was halfway through, I felt it was best suited to another actor, and when I finished I felt it suited a third one. Scripts take on a life of their own.

It happens very naturally. When you are writing, you do start imagining someone because you need to.

One writes keeping some kind of personality or body type in mind. There has to be a face.

If I have become a face for people to write towards, I am happy. Are you splitting your actor's fee with Zoya because she's the one who gave you ZNMD? Splitting the money with my sister? No.

Zoya made all the money on ZNMD. I have still not been paid my acting fees! What excites you more - acting or directing? My social networking pages have all kinds of comments on them.

Some say acting karo, direction chhod do; others say why are you acting, concentrate on making movies. Everyone has their own take.

My inner voice says I should do whatever excites me - whether it is acting or directing. So what excites you? It is very difficult to say.

I am excited about finishing Don 2 . I am getting increasingly excited about starting Bhaag Milkha.

That takes care of a year and a half of my life. I haven't thought beyond that.

To sustain one's enthusiasm for a year and a half is very difficult. So you will do just one film at a time? Yes, especially because Bhaag Milkha has such a specific look.

It is very difficult to even think of anything else. Besides, it is always nicer to finish something you start before moving on.

It is also fairer to the people who are making the film that you give them one hundred per cent of your time, commitment, whatever is on offer from your end. Whether I direct or act, it will be one film at a time.

Contd. on pg10 You are also in talks with Abhishek Kapoor, isn't it? Abhishek is excited about doing a sequel to Rock On!! I have heard the story and it is very good.

A screenplay draft is being worked on. As an actor, is there a specific genre you see yourself excelling in? I can't do Don.

It is too iconic for an actor like me. When I think of Don, I think of SRK.

I would love to do an action movie and a thriller. I've grown up watching it.

What about the romance, masala movie? There are songs in Bhaag Milka as well. Songs are a part of Hindi film culture, but as far as genres go, the classic love story is my least favourite; in terms of watching, directing or acting.

Unless it is something spectacular, I will be drawn to something else. Having said that, I must add that scripts come with their pros and cons.

Sometimes you can't say no because it is so amazing. So who is Farhan the actor's favourite actor? I like many actors.

All actors have their own strengths. But I do enjoy watching Hrithik Roshan, Aamir Khan and Ajay Devgn purely for the fact that when you see their body of work and the body of work of most other actors, you notice that these guys bring something new to the table by way of a story or character.

I love the way Ajay keeps reinventing himself as an actor. I would hate to watch the same kind of performance over and over again.

An actor must keep challenging himself if he wishes to have a really long innings. Even as a filmmaker, I believe in mixing genres.

A film must be entertaining. When I say entertaining, I don't mean that you should only make people laugh.

You can enthrall them with drama or comedy. There should be a sense of variety in storytelling and performance.

meena.iyer@timesgroup.

com (less)

On married actors being successful in Bollywood, Shahid says, "I agree that most of our superstars in the industry are married..

.are successful.

But again it (being successful) is not so much related to whether you are married or not. It takes certain amount of time to establish yourself as an actor.

Usually to reach there you need the support of somebody who loves you, takes care of you. "And so you end up getting married and settling down.

It (marriage) gives you a lot of confidence and certain sense of stability. So I think it is beautiful if your partner is with you on your journey in life.

..

if you have somebody to share your success it is great," he said. Shahid also said he is available for tying the knot.

"I am available and koi bhi achi ladki chahe toh..

.(If any of the good girls want).

..

I am available. I don't have any reservations for marriage," he said.

The 30-year-old was dating Kareena Kapoor when they started filming for Ken Ghosh's 2004 film Fida . They were going steady until they separated during the making of Jab We Met in 2007.

Since then, he has been linked with Vidya Balan, Priyanka Chopra, Deepika Padukone, Anushka Sharma and Bipasha Basu. But he has never admitted to dating any of these beauties.

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We list those weddings which everyone took a note of. B-Town weddings got bigger and better in 2011.

Harshada Rege lists some of the walks down the aisle that were much-talked about Imran Khan and Avantika Malik When: January 10, 2011 Imran and Avantika will soon celebrate the first anniversary of their marriage. The two got married after being in a relationship for eight long years.

Theirs was probably one of the most high-profile weddings in B-Town. The mehendi, sangeet and a grand reception saw all of B-Town coming in to wish the couple.

Mamu Aamir Khan and wife Kiran Rao welcomed the guests. Celina Jaitly and Peter Haag When: March 16, 2011 Celina Jaitly announced her engagement with Peter Haag in January and their wedding took place at a 1,000 year old monastery.

B-Town got a whiff of her wedding much later. The actress is now expecting twins.

Vijender Singh and Archana Singh When: May 17, 2011 Vijender Singh married Archana Singh in Delhi. Rahul Gandhi was among the eminent guests who took part in the celebration.

Shabbir Ahluwalia and Kanchi Kaul When: November 27, 2011 This wedding of two small screen actors was very lavish. The entire television industry showed up for the sangeet ceremony as well as the wedding.

Ganesh Hegde and Sunayna Shetty When: June 5, 2011 Ganesh Hegde agreed to dance to Sunayna Shetty's tunes in June. Many superstars including Amitabh and Abhishek Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Priyanka Chopra were present to wish the couple.

Samir Soni and Neelam When: January 23, 2011 The first thing Sameer Soni did when he walked out of Bigg Boss's house (during the fourth season of the show) was ask girlfriend Neelam to marry him. The wedding was attended my the their B-Town and society buddies.

Nikhil Dwivedi and Gauri Pandit When: March 7, 2011 Nikhil Dwivedi's lavish wedding to Gauri Pandit had guest like Abhishek Bachchan, Salman Khan , Anil Kapoor , Tusshar, Manish Malhotra , Juhi Chawla and Abhishek Bachchan on the guestlist. Gautam Gambhir and Natasha Jain When: October 28, 2011 Gautam and Delhi-based Natasha's wedding was held at a farmhouse in Gurgaon.

His team members turned up to congratulate the couple. Gul Panag and Rishi Attari When: March 13, 2011 Gul Panag married boyfriend Rishi Attari in a traditional Sikh ceremony at a gurudwara.

The wedding took place in Chandigarh and was a family affair. But trust Gul to do things differently.

The baraat had Rishi riding a bike and Gul plonking her self in the sidecar. Very filmi! Lara Dutta and Mahesh Bhupathi When: February 16, 2011 Lara and Mahesh first had a civil ceremony, in Bandra.

But they took their vows on February 20 in a Christian ceremony at Sunset Point in Goa. Friends like Raveena Tandon and Priyanka Chopra were among the guests.

Anurag Kashyap and Kalki Koechlin When: April 30, 2011 Anurag Kashyap married Kalki Koechlin in a traditional ceremony in Ooty. This, too, was a family-only affair, but the couple had invited a few of their friends from B-Town.

Rajeev Khandelwal and Manjiri Kamtikar When: February 7, 2011 Rajeev Khandelwal's wedding, too, was a family-only affair. The wedding that took place at Khimsar Fort in Jodhpur and was conducted according to the Arya Samaji rituals.

Sameer Dattani and Ritika Jolly When: March 16, 2011 Sameer Dattani married girlfriend Ritika Jolly amidst family and friends at a ceremony in Dehra Dun. The married couple later hosted a huge reception for industrywallahs in Mumbai.

Sonam Kapoor and Imran Khan , who have worked with Sameer in I Hate Love Storys were present to congratulate their co-star (less)

Signs of swelling dissent are already evident. The first promotional trailer of "Tezz" has Ajay Devgn and Anil Kapoor in spotlight, while Mohanlal is seen fleetingly.

This has evoked protest all over micro-blogging sites, creating a mild panic situation in the production team, says a source. "We never expected this kind of an uproar.

Mohanlal has a cameo in 'Tezz', and that's how he was shown in the first promo..

.in fleeting shots! But the uproar from his fans in the south on Facebook and Twitter has taken the producers by surprise.

New trailers are now being planned where Mohanlal will be as prominent as Ajay," said the source. Incidentally, this is not the first time Devgn has been compelled to share poster space with Mohanlal.

In Ram Gopal Varma's "Company", the same north-south divide had transpired. "Tezz" producer Ratan Jain admits to being taken aback by the uproar.

"Frankly we didn't expect this. We didn't mean to undermine Mohanlalji's stature at all.

He sportingly agreed to play a cameo part because of his proximity to Priyadarshan . The heroes of our film are Ajay Devgn and Anil Kapoor.

But if Mohanlalji's fans are upset, we've to do something about it," Jain said. "We're taking care of the situation.

The next promo will feature Mohanlalji prominently." An interesting sidelight to the Mohanlal-Devgn poster war is that "Tezz" was meant to be pitched as Devgn's next action film after "Singham".

But now with the Mohanlal fans demanding attention to him in the promotional footage, it would be difficult to hightlight the action aspect in the plot. "We're looking into it.

We need to be fair to all our actors," said Jain (less)

. All this happened while shooting 'Rascals', a film starring Ajay Devgn and Sanjay Dutt .

The two actors known to be pranksters on the sets didn't make life easy for director David Dhawan. At the music launch of this film, Ajay Devgn revealed, "Once David Dhawan was missing.

We looked for him everywhere. He landed up two hours late! Do you know where he was? David was out shopping for bikinis for the actresses.

" Actresses Kangna Ranaut and Lisa Hayden will don a sexy two-piece in the movie. Quiz Dutt on their sexiness and he quick to reply, "Now if David has personally gone and shopped bikinis for them, they'll have to look good only, na?" (less)

. RAVEENA TANDON AND ANIL THADANI WHEN: February 2004 LOVE-O-METRE: Nearing the 10-year milestone.

THE PROPOSAL: The couple met for the first time on Valentine's Day at Olive restaurant in Mumbai. After that, however, they did not see each other for two years! Then Raveena made her first film, "Stumped" as producer, and Anil sent her an SMS that he would like to help her distribute the film.

"We actually dated for only two months," shares Raveena. "We met in August 2002, and he proposed in October.

That year, like this year, Diwali and my birthday were on the same day! So he planned a proposal on Diwali day. We first went to his chacha's house to celebrate, and then headed to my family's Diwali puja.

When I reached my dad's house, I saw huge ornate baskets, lots of them lying around the house, and my mom just dismissed them saying, 'Your brothers want to send this to their colleagues and friends.' We started getting ready for the Lakshmi puja, but we were just waiting! And I kept asking, 'Why are we delaying things, it's nine o' clock.

..

lets start! And it was the first time my two adopted daughters, Pooja and Chhaya were standing around with their cameras. Usually I would film or take photographs of the celebrations! Suddenly the doorbell rang and I saw Anil's mom, dad and sister walk in.

It still didn't strike me, but I said, 'So mom, we were waiting for them?' And then my dad asked Anil to do the honours! Everybody was giggling as Anil got on his knees and pulled out a big box with a ring and asked, 'Will you be my wife?' It took me a long time to respond, I saw my mom all teary-eyed, and my daughters were both laughing and crying..

. and everybody said, 'Please say yes, he will get tired being on his knees!' So I said 'Sure!'" WEDDING TRIVIA: Manav Gangwani designed Raveena's bridal wear.

He also designed three exclusive outfits for the groom. The bride's wardrobe was 10 times more elaborate than the groom's.

Raveena got a dream wedding going, after scouting for the best possible locations with Anil. Her sangeet and mehndi parties were held on separate evenings at the Shiv Niwas Palace hotel in Udaipur.

Her wedding reception was held at the Jag Mandir Palace hotel, on Pichola Lake, Udaipur. Farah Khan Ali designed Raveena's jewellery.

Guests included the who's who of Bollywood, and a diverse range of the couple's friends like Gautam Singhania, Manish Malhotra, Vijay Mallya, Ravi and Ritu Shastri, Amar Singh, Vasundhara Raje and Subrata Roy Sahara. HRITHIK ROSHAN AND SUSSANNE KHAN WHEN: December 2000 LOVE-O-METRE: They celebrated a decade together in 2010 and have two delightful little boys, Hridhaan and Hrehaan.

THE PROPOSAL: One year after he started dating Sussanne on Valentine's Day, in 1999, Hrithik went down on his knees and proposed to her at Juhu beach in Mumbai. "I'd known since I was 12 that she was the girl for me, but that was the big moment, complete with a ring.

Earlier, on another Valentine's Day, I'd told her those three all-important words, 'I love you,'" Hrithik has been quoted saying. WEDDING TRIVIA: In a confluence of Hindu-Muslim rituals and cultures, Hrithik performed certain Hindu rites and Sussanne, Sanjay Khan's youngest daughter, performed certain Muslim rites.

The mehndi and sangeet were homespun affairs, mostly at home with close friends and family. But the wedding was a spectacular affair.

The ceremony took place at Sanjay Khan's heavilyguarded Golden Palms resorts and spa, on Bangalore's outskirts in December 2000. In a brief appearance before the media in the midst of the pre-wedding haldi ritual, Hrithik said with a laugh, "There will be no heartburn.

They are my well-wishers. They will continue to wish me luck and success," he said, referring to his choice of bride vis-avis his family's response.

"Sussanne is our last daughter and I'm very happy that she's getting married," said Feroz Khan. About 70 members of the Khan and Roshan families and their friends attended the wedding.

Guests at the reception included stars like Dimple Kapadia, Rishi and Randhir Kapoor, Uday Chopra, Karan Johar and childhood friend Abhishek Bachchan. Hrithik's mode of transport to his wedding was a white horse.

His wedding oufit was a white Jodhpuri suit with gold-embroidery designed by Rocky S, while Sussanne wore a gold and red ensemble designed by Tarun Tahiliani. ABHISHEK BACHCHAN AND AISHWARYA RAI WHEN: April 2007 LOVE-O-METRE: They have reached the half-decade mark this year and are parents to the new-born angel! THE PROPOSAL: This classy couple surprised everyone with their engagement announcement back in 2007.

Although Abhi and Ash were very hush-hush about the love brewing between them, it seemed inevitable as fate repeatedly cast them together in a slew of magnum opus projects such as "Umrao Jaan", "Dhoom 2", and what seemed a turning point, "Guru". Aishwarya becoming a part of the Bachchan parivaar started looking more imminent when she did an electrifying stage performance of Kajra Re at the 2005 IIFA Awards with senior and junior Bachchan.

Abhishek popped the question with a borrowed ring in hand (allegedly from the production department of his film), proposing to Ash spontaneously as they were heading home after the premiere of "Guru" in Toronto, waiting for their flight at the British Airways lounge at New York's JFK airport on January 12, 2007. According to eyewitnesses, a very emotional Ash accepted.

After Abhishek called home with the good news, the couple was asked to come and they had a formal engagement ceremony at Jalsa, attended only by close family friends like Amar Singh, Anil and Tina Ambani, Kirron Kher and the Johars. Finally, the couple was unafraid to hang out at each other's sets and make public appearances together.

WEDDING TRIVIA: The actual wedding became a homely, though celebrity-studded affair mostly set around the Bachchan residences, Jalsa and Pratiksha, as Teji Bachchan, Amitabh's mother, was critical. However, many details about the nuptials were unique: the wedding invite had two 'editions' - one invite only solicited blessings, while the second set actually invited a limited number of guests.

While the Bachchans sent out golden chocolate boxes with the cards, they also sent ensembles by Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla to close friends. The Rais also sent out jewellery and clothes to select invitees, including close friend Subrata Roy Sahara.

Celebrations kicked off at Pratiksha with the sangeet, where it is believed a lot of family members danced to Bollywood songs, with Karan Johar playing MC. The mehndi was held at La Mer, Ash's residence.

Fifteen kilos of special Nihar henna was brought in by Shweta Nanda, Sonali Bendre, Rinkie Khanna and other close friends for Ash from Sojat in Rajasthan. A 30-foot walkway was erected at the entrance of La Mer to the main area of the ceremony.

The actual wedding saw 11 pundits from Benaras and Bangalore, and it was conducted in Arya Samaj tradition. Chanting started in the morning, and massive tents were put up to accommodate guests around Pratiksha.

The ceremony was conducted in an air-conditioned pandal in the same garden. At 5.

15 pm the colourfully-dressed dhol players kicked off the baraat from Jalsa, which ended at Pratiksha, where a bejewelled Aishwarya in a gold kanjeevaram ensemble waited for her groom. The ceremony was over by 7.

30 pm and then the friends danced the night away. KARISMA KAPOOR AND SUNJAY KAPUR WHEN: September 2003 LOVE-O-METRE: " He's (Sunjay) not the film-going sort.

I think Sunjay has made me a calmer person; if you ask me that's the one thing that has changed about me after marriage," said Karisma a year after her wedding. The couple completes a decade in 2013.

WEDDING TRIVIA: Bollywood's blueeyed girl Karisma Kapoor tied the knot with Sunjay Kapur in a ceremony marked by style and grandeur. The wedding ceremony, which was to take place at 11 am, was delayed because the groom was stuck in traffic.

Sunjay arrived at the venue at 12.45 pm and rushed inside the cottage's gates.

He was dressed in a cream sherwani and wore a gold sehra. The pheras finally took place at 1.

00 am in the presence of both families. In typical Kapoor tradition, Karisma was married at her grandfather, the late Raj Kapoor's home, R K Cottage.

The couple opted for an hour-long Sikh ceremony. At around noon, Karisma's family and friends were still busy with pre-wedding ceremonies.

Both the bride's sister Kareena and her aunt Rima Jain supervised last-minute preparations. The strains of the shehnai wafted through the air.

Outside the cottage, the scene was both crowded and confused. Curious onlookers were milling around, hoping to catch a glimpse of their favourite stars.

Journalists, photographers and camera crews had stationed themselves outside the gates of the cottage. A phalanx of policemen was doing their best to manage the crowds and the ensuing traffic jam.

Because of the crowds, no member of the RK family was present at the gates to welcome the groom and his family. Among the guests who drove in were Lolo's uncle Rishi Kapoor, actor Sanjay Kapoor who reportedly played the brother's part at the ceremony, designer Manish Malhotra, granduncles Shashi and Shammi Kapoor, filmmaker Bharat Shah, cricketer Mohammed Azharuddin and Sangeeta Bijlani, Govinda, Rahul and Akshay Khanna.

Manish Malhotra had designed Karisma's trousseau. Being a style icon herself, it wasn't a surprise when she chose to follow the unconventional route and opted for a pastel shade for her bridal outfit instead of the usual reds and maroons.

The tasselled dupatta was embellished with zari and stones. The house was decorated with flowers and the garden that surrounded the house was turned into a Sheesh Mahal-like mandap that could accommodate 600 guests who were offered non-alcoholic drinks and vegetarian starters until the wedding ceremony was completed.

Karisma's father Randhir, according to reports, opened a bottle of champagne after the wedding, after which a wellstocked bar was thrown open to the guests. An elaborate lunch was served later which included a variety of cuisines like Oriental, Thai, Chinese, Italian, French and Continental.

It also included Punjabi, Gujarati and Rajasthani food (less)

He will probably not have to wait too long, since filmmakers armed with scripts and DVDs of South Indian actions flicks have reportedly approached him. "I have been given DVDs to watch, so that re-makes can be made.

Most of these are South Indian action flicks. I am going through them and will probably say yes to one of them," said Singh, who is currently working on his second film, Ricky Bahl Versus The Ladies , another romcom, with Yashraj productions.

According to the actor, his second film will be complete soon and by September, he will have a better idea of what he will do next. "I want to start my next film by January," he said.

The actor, keeping in mind, the challenge before him, has started working on his physique. "I'll be honest.

I have to work hard to look presentable," he said, candidly. Ricky Bahl reportedly has a number of scenes where Singh appears topless.

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The Marathi version of Laadla is being produced by Nitin Manmohan and directed by Rajiv Patil, whose Marathi film Jogwa won five national awards. A source close to the film told Mumbai Mirror, "Mithun was finalised for the role a few days ago.

It is going to be a big challenge for him to step into Anil's shoes; it is his first film." Mugdha and Mithun have had a rather rocky relationship.

They first met in 2003 during the shoot of a music video, which was being directed by ace photographer Jagdish Mali . The couple of modelling assignments together, strengthened their 'liking' for each other.

Mithun, who was smitten by Mugdha, had reportedly booked an entire theatre when Fashion hit the screens in 2008. Things started going wrong soon after.

While insiders maintained that that the two were back together as a couple, Mithun claimed, "We are not dating. We have moved on to be great friends.

" Friends or lovers, the two have now been cast together in the remake of Laadla, the shooting of which will begin in January 2012. "Yes, I am doing Anil Kapoor's role in the Marathi remake of Laadla.

It's a good opening. I am thrilled," said Mithun.

We wonder if Mugdha is equally thrilled about the same (less)

Ritika personally selects the rakhi, and we invariably debate over the knot. We argue over what is the optimum way of knotting a rakhi.

She feels very awkward when I bend down to touch her feet..

. but I do it anyway! Another one of her personal touches that I appreciate is the selection of chocolates on the thali.

She's solely responsible for my major sweet tooth. As a child, she'd buy me chocolates almost every day.

On Raksha Bandhan, she always includes my favourite chocolates in the thali. Both of us gorge on them greedily once the ritual is done with.

When I was away from home studying in the US, Ritika would send me a rakhi via post. She'd also include small ziplock bags with rice and the tikka.

She would even send me kharchi - in dollars, no less! I missed her the most during that time and especially on those days. Since I'm her baby brother, she always spoils me to bits.

Instead of me buying her a gift, she buys me a whole bunch of gifts on Raksha Bandhan like watches, laptops, mobile phones or perfumes. This year, for the first time ever, I've been able to afford buying her a present in return with my own money.

I would like to get her some luxury accessories, but she is very particular so I'll let her select whatever she likes. (As told to Upala KBR) (less)

Instead Deepika chose to make her debut with Farah Khan's Om Shanti Om . After that Priyadarshan stayed away from Deepika until 2008 when Shah Rukh Khan used his clout to persuade Deepika to perform an item song in Priyadarshan's Billu , which SRK's Red Chillies Entertainment had produced.

The thawing of the ice had begun. Now it's time for the director and actress to finally work together.

"We broke the ice during the song in Billu . Now I've a role just right for her," said Priyan.

Priyadarshan, who has directed about 83 films in his 30-year career, had no releases in 2011, but he's ready to make up for the lost year with as many as four films this year. Of these, the 'family comedy' (as he dubs it) which he will direct in July for Shree Ashtavinayak Cine Vision Limited has him specially kicked.

Not only is he working with Abhishek Bachchan for the first time, he has also reached out to Deepika for the female lead opposite the actor. It's a double delight for Priyadarshan since he has never worked with both the actors.

"Abhishek and I have been planning projects together for the longest time. We were supposed to do a bio-pic on Chandrashekhar Azad.

But who watches historicals any more? I've finally zeroed in on the perfect project for Abhishek. We start shooting in July," said Priyadarshan.

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A source says, "The brand wanted a younger, more vibrant girl for the new commercial. It's a beverage brand that Chitrangda has previously endorsed with Saif Ali Khan against the backdrop of the Taj Mahal , but they have not renewed the contract with her and signed Prachi instead.

They wanted someone with mass appeal." Prachi shot the ad with Saif a couple of days ago.

The actress is currently shooting with Ajay Devgn and Abhishek Bachchan for Rohit Shetty's Bol Bachchan in Film City. The source adds, "With Prachi's film lined up for release, she was a perfect fit for the brand.

She is paired opposite John Abraham and Abhishek this year. Last year, she had been extremely unwell for over a month so she couldn't work too much.

Prachi was down with a viral which she just wasn't able to recover from. She was in Pune last month to recover completely from the viral which left her weak.

Now she's raring to go." The source says Prachi is looking forward to her film, Shrishti Behl's I, Me Aur Main, with John.

""John Abraham plays the protagonist. It is about him and the women in his life, played by Prachi and Chitrangda.

There also they clash but on a personal level as both fall in love with John and want him to decide whom to choose between them both." (less)

Sadly, in the subsequent decade, all he served in the name of stress-free slapsticks is noise and commotion. While we aren't demanding that the filmmaker upgrade with times, all we expect is that the one-time king of comedy merely maintain his original brand of humour.

Is that asking for too much? Rascals is what one can call a 'vacation' filmmaking stint where everyone works on the film as if they were on a 'holiday' and the audience is expected to 'leave' their senses behind. The actors make least efforts to add conviction to their performances and the patchy writing just allows them to play as they please.

Invariably the director tries to camouflage the shallowness in the story by adding depth only in the decibel levels of the dialogue delivery. So you have conmen Chetan (Sanjay Dutt) and Bhagat (Ajay Devgn) in one-upmanship game to win the girl (Kangana Ranaut) loaded with assets (both financial and physical).

It's never clear what they love more - her body or her bank-balance. And their lecherous rivalry only seems to be about who would get to hug the cleavage-popping girl more number of times.

One-upmanship has been a popular plot for several comedies since the times of Amitabh Bachchan - Shashi Kapoor's Do Aur Do Paanch (1980). Even David Dhawan had smartly handled the concept in his earlier comedies like Govinda-Anil Kapoor's Deewana Mastana (1997) and Akshay-Salman's Mujhse Shaadi Karogi (2004).

Unfortunately it doesn't quite work this time, primarily because Kangana Ranaut doesn't share any chemistry with either men and so their persistent pursuit to get the girl falls flat. Also thanks to the dull camaraderie, the viewer never really bothers which hero would actually win the heroine in the end.

Thereby the small surprise in the climax (no, there isn't a cameo by a third hero) also doesn't register much. The storytelling in the animated title credits is more appealing than the conventional narrative structure.

While one has already left logic behind, the problem is that Yunus Sejawal's screenplay is inconsistent, convenient and uneventful. It lacks the imagination or wit for some real exciting clash between the male leads.

One can easily see through most of the worn-out gags. Sanjay Chhel's synchronized rhyming dialogues are occasionally funny but seem forced otherwise.

You laugh more on the corniness of the scenes than the comedy per se. The tone of humour is consistently loud and commotional.

Expectedly Ajay Devgn keeps screaming most of the time and hams outrageously. Sanjay Dutt is better in comparison, which isn't saying much.

He gets the funnier lines, gags and scenes. Kangana Ranaut is ill at ease in comedy.

She struggles to hold her own and emerges as a bimbo in her act. Lisa Haydon is merely employed to look hot and she does a fair job at it.

Hiten Paintel is used as an add-on and his presence in the film is immaterial. Satish Kaushik attempts to induce few laughs with his gibberish brand comedy.

Bharti Achrekar gets no scope. Chunky Pandey overacts.

Arjun Rampal has pretty much nothing to do. Rascals ends up being a silly and stupid comedy! (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)

On the other hand, Ajay Devgn has been named the best actor for Rohit Shetty's Singham , while Farhan Akhtar will be conferred with best director award for Don 2 - The King Is Back . Filmmaker Ramesh Sippy, veteran lyricist Gulzar and T.

P. Aggarwal, chairman, Film Federation of India will be given lifetime achievement awards, according to Daya Nand Vats, general secretary of the Sangh.

The hero of all-time hit award goes to actor Anil Kapoor. NDTV has been named the best Hindi news channel, while Asian Academy of Film and TV has been named the best institute for film and TV.

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Disclosing a few details about the project, Veena said: "It's a 3D horror film with Telugu filmmaker Hemant Madhukar, and it's really hard to shoot." "For one, we are shooting in the wilderness.

There are no luxury hotels, no daily comforts. Then it's a 3D film, not like the other 3D films in Hindi where the 2D format is converted into 3D.

We are shooting in 3D which means every shot takes hours sometimes. It's really time consuming because I am playing both the 'thriller' and 'horror' element of the film," she added.

Veena performs all her stunts on her own in the film. "(There's) lots of wirework and flips and somersaults and bruises and cuts.

I am roughing it out here in the jungles and enjoying every bit of it!" she added. Veena, who became a known name in India after her stint in the fourth season of reality show "Bigg Boss", is happy she is shooting for an actual 3D film.

Perhaps not aware of Vikram Bhatt's stereoscopic 3D film " Haunted ", Veena said: "This is the first Hindi film to be actually shot in the 3D format. Otherwise films like 'RA.

One' were shot in 2D and transferred to the 3D format." The actress is also set to have her 'swayamvar' on India's national television, through Imagine TV, which has earlier hosted 'swayamvars' of Rakhi Sawant , Rahul Mahajan and Ratan Rajput (less)

"Akshay has always been a guiding force from 'Garam Masala' itself. I was very raw then.

I have learnt a lot from him," said John. John, who built a muscular body for his last release "Force", even feels Akshay is fit as a fiddle at 44.

"Even during 'Force' I was always asked who is the fittest man in the industry and I have always said it is Akshay Kumar and I stand by it. He is a true inspiration in a lot more ways than one.

To look so fit and handsome all the time is really difficult and he does it all the time," added John. "Desi Boyz" marks the directorial debut of Rohit Dhawan, son of filmmaker David Dhawan .

Also starring Deepika Padukone , Chitrangada Singh and Omi Vaidya, the film will release Nov 25 (less)

In fact, Bollywood's man of the moment Salman Khan's Bodyguard is reportedly the first Hindi film to have netted the fastest ` 100 crore collection in its first week, going on to add another ` 10-11 crore in the next three days and counting. Before that came Rohit Shetty's Singham that earned around ` 50 crore, Zoya Akhtar's urban bromance, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, ` 45 crore, Ready, directed by Anees Bazmee collected ` 68 crore in the first week itself.

Guess what are the formula(s) no.1 for ensuring big bucks in the first week of a film's release? A promotional blitzkrieg (which means deluging the viewer with all possible nuggets about the film, stars making appearances on TV shows/soaps, besides hobnobbing with the audience in multiplexes of urban India), bone-crunching action sequences tempered with sensuous item songs, and releasing the film at the right time (read festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi, Eid, Diwali, Dusshera, post-IPL, summer vacations).

Smart filmmakers know how to get the most out of the multiplex audience and the best way to woo them back to the screens. Filmmakers are unapologetic about the ingredients they are using to wow the cinebuffs, - raunchy comedy, kick-ass action, and sensual song-dance sequences.

Filmmaker Rohit Shetty who has hit gold with his Golmaal franchise and Singham, feels that the kind of films he makes, caters to almost 80-90 per cent of the audience in the country. He says, "My budgets are too high to take a risk with my film.

You can't make ` 60 crore films with someone who is not a saleable star. An entertaining film does not have a hit formula today but the first week collections are guaranteed only with a saleable star like Salman or Ajay, and the script is always larger-than-life.

That's how it works." Opening score Bodyguard : 101.

45 crore Ready : 68 crore Singham : 50 crore ZNMD : 45 crore Double dhamaal : 45 crore Delhi Belly : 36.5 crore Murder-2 : 36 crore With giant budgets for promotions and publicity of films, a film is treated like a 'product' when it hits the market.

Says trade analyst Komal Nahta, "The initial hype created about the film and festivals are great audience pullers for a film. When you are releasing a film during Eid or Diwali, the number of people hungry for entertainment is many folds more.

Also the initial bombardment of the film promotions on the viewers is so strong that a film belonging to the three Khans is definitely going to be seen once. It has all to do with excellent promotions, entertaining film with hit music and a festival release.

" But filmmakers disagree that a film works because of its publicity. Says actor Ajay Devgn, "Publicity and promotions are trends that we have to follow because everyone is following them.

All of us are doing the same shows, the same rounds of publicity and the same events, but some films work and some don't (despite them)." Agrees Rohit, "However, great publicity can't really save a bad film.

" Multiplex owners and distributors see hit stars and commercial potboilers as important reasons for the breaking records phenomenon of the first week collections. For the masses, movies are the biggest sources of entertainment and there is no other means to second that.

Says Ashish Saxena, CEO of a popular chain of multiplexes in the country, "A single release (when one film releases during a particular week) of a film also guarantees success specially in the smaller cities, where people have already chosen which films they are going to watch in the weekend. So when it's a long weekend, films are an ideal way to unwind.

With digital cinema penetrating the interiors, piracy is controlled and the collections are huge." Filmmaker Indra Kumar whose Double Dhamaal collected ` 25 crore in the first week, feels that the look and promotions of a film help in the initial collections.

"It's a hit and run game these days. There are 21 shows running in multiplexes today, so obviously a first weekend collection is very important.

In case of the Khans maybe the star value works, but in other films the promos and the first look guarantees the first week collections." According to trade analysts and filmmakers Ra.

One which is slated for a Diwali release and Don 2 (December release) will also break records and gross at the box-office in the coming months. From golden jubilees and silver jubilees, a film is now a jackpot if it sails successfully through the first weekend into the profit zone.

As Bollywood's BO collections get bigger and better, we wonder what kind of returns will soon-to-release biggies like David Dhawan's Rascals (Sanjay Dutt-Kangna Ranaut-Ajay Devgn), Farhan Akhtar's Don 2 (Shah Rukh Khan-Priyanka Chopra), Anubhav Sinha's Ra.One (Shah Rukh Khan-Kareena Kapoor), Imtiaz Ali's Rockstar (Ranbir Kapoor-Nargis Faqkri), Shreeram Raghvan's Agent Vinod (Saif Ali Khan-Kareena), Anurag Basu's Barfee (Ranbir-Priyanka Chopra-Ileana), Kabir Khan's Ek Tha Tiger (Salman Khan-Katrina Kaif), Priyadarshan's Tezz (Ajay Devgn-Anil Kapoor), Maneesh Sharma's Ladies Vs Ricky Behl (Ranveer Singh-Anushka) promise! Will they reach the 150 crore or better still even the 200 crore club and create new highs for blockbusters? Tweet'; var stindex=100; var stp=150; var taglen=0; var tmp; var tagcheck = new Array("div","span","br","font","a"); if(storymetalinks==true) { var storydiv=document.

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Signs of swelling dissent are already evident. The first promotional trailer of Tezz has Ajay Devgn and Anil Kapoor in spotlight, while Mohanlal is seen fleetingly.

This has evoked protest all over micro-blogging sites, creating a mild panic situation in the production team, says a source. "We never expected this kind of an uproar.

Mohanlal has a cameo in 'Tezz', and that's how he was shown in the first promo..

.in fleeting shots! But the uproar from his fans in the south on Facebook and Twitter has taken the producers by surprise.

New trailers are now being planned where Mohanlal will be as prominent as Ajay," said the source. Incidentally, this is not the first time Devgn has been compelled to share poster space with Mohanlal.

In Ram Gopal Varma's "Company", the same north-south divide had transpired. Tezz producer Ratan Jain admits to being taken aback by the uproar.

"Frankly we didn't expect this. We didn't mean to undermine Mohanlalji's stature at all.

He sportingly agreed to play a cameo part because of his proximity to Priyadarshan. The heroes of our film are Ajay Devgn and Anil Kapoor.

But if Mohanlalji's fans are upset, we've to do something about it," Jain said. "We're taking care of the situation.

The next promo will feature Mohanlalji prominently." An interesting sidelight to the Mohanlal-Devgn poster war is that Tezz was meant to be pitched as Devgn's next action film after Singham .

But now with the Mohanlal fans demanding attention to him in the promotional footage, it would be difficult to hightlight the action aspect in the plot. "We're looking into it.

We need to be fair to all our actors," said Jain. Tweet (less)

They would then shortlist the titles that could be remade into Bollywood films." Incidentally, the film they were shooting for is supposed to be a copy of Keanu Reeves-starrer Speed (less)

Citing date problems, Shahid too has now refused to be a part of the filmmaker's upcoming comedy. A source told Mumbai Mirror, "After Ajay Devgn said no to MKBKM, Vishal thought Shahid would be a good choice opposite Anushka since their film Badmaash Company was received well by the audiences and critics.

However, Shahid has refused to be a part of the project since he is busy with Kunal Kohli's film Muqtassar and then Siddharth Anand's remake of Knight and Day." While some may attribute Shahid's refusal to thecreative differences he had with the filmmaker during the making of Kaminey, our source revealed, "Shahid is now fine with Vishal.

He really had date issues with MKBKM. He will definitely do Kaminey 2 with him next year, woh pakka hai.

" "Shahid is very keen on working with different directors. He has three films that will go on floors next year apart from his current projects.

His schedule is choc-a-bloc right now. He has given out bulk dates to his next films," added the source.

While Vishal remained unavailable for comment, Shahid who is holidaying in Europe with his friends chose to remain silent as well (less)

"Akshay was on board from day one, when I was still developing the story idea. A two-hero movie is never easy to write and it took me almost two years to put this project together.

Once I felt I had justified the presence of both the protagonists, I took the script to John who's been like a buddy since I worked as an assistant director on dad's film, Hook Ya Crook. He was convinced immediately," said Rohit.

"Both Akshay and John are extremely disciplined and professional. They were always on time and focused through the day, a dream team for any first-time director.

" The cast includes Deepika Padukone and Chitrangada Singh as leading ladies and Rohit promises to bring the house down with the coming of age comedy that traces the lives of two young lads who refuse to grow up. The film will hit the theaters on November 25th.

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13) Talaash (Releasing on 1st June 2012. Verdict: Hit):- The title of this Aamir-Rani -Kareena starrer adds up to Number 18 - which is not a positive octave of Number 9.

There are some films which have the 'luck' attached to it and 'Talaash' may just click simply because of that factor. Aamir (14th March 1965) will be entering his 48th year soon which once again is a great phase for him and that's the film biggest trump card.

Even Rani Mukherji (21st March 1978) and Kareena Kapoor's (21st September 1980) fortunes are riding high and the film will ensure superb collection. Tip: When you have actors with a midas touch, half the battle is won.

14) Rowdy Rathore (Releasing on 15th June 2012. Verdict: Flop):- The title of this UTV and Sanjay Leela Bhansali venture adds up to Number 46 - which is a favorable number.

But actor Akshay Kumar (9th September 1967) running in his 45th year is passing through a topsy-turvy phase in his career. While the film and his role will be appreciated by a few, a certain section of the audience may just dislike it totally.

After a successful debut, Sonakshi Sinha (2nd June 1987) may also receive mixed reviews. Tip: The UTV -Sanjay Leela Bhansali collaboration seems to be jinxed.

15) Teri Meri Kahaani (Releasing on 22nd June 2012. Verdict: Flop):- The title of this Kunal Kohli produced and directed enterprise is adding up to Number 36 - which is a lucky number promising authority, power and command.

But like there is a saying 'Man proposes, God disposes' - the year 2012 (Number 5 - Mercury) does not support anything to do with Number 9 ( Mars ) and hence the film will fail to even take off. The compound number arrived by adding the release date is also Number 5 which will further mar the prospects of this love story.

Even the lead pairs Shahid Kapoor (25th February 1981) and Priyanka Chopra's (18th July 1982) real life on - off romance may not be able to attract people in hordes and salvage the show. Tip: Shahid in his 31st year may not have a memorable 2012 while Priyanka in her 30th year might have to remain happy just with prasises galore for doing good work.

16) Dangerous Ishq (Releasing in June 2012. Verdict: Hit):- The title of this Vikram Bhatt thriller adds up to Number 46 - one of the most powerful octaves of Number 1.

It is also amongst the best numbers for the supremely talented Karisma Kapoor (25th June1974) who's making her comeback after a hiatus with this 3D film. She running in her 38th year will prove extremely lucky for her and it will rub off on the film as well.

Tip: For best results, the film should release on 22nd June 2012. 17) Barfii (Releasing in July 2012.

Verdict: Flop):- The title of this long in the making film is vibrating on Number 15 - which is a very lucky and powerful octave of Number 6 with strong magnetism, but also has a certain voluptuous temperament. Going by the meaning derived from it, the film will appeal only to a class audience and the rest may remain indifferent.

Both Ranbir (28th September 1982) and Priyanka (18th July 1982) in their 30th year will give award worthy performances but the box office rewards would clearly be missing. Tip: The film was originally spelled as 'Barfee'.

The makers should immediately go back to that spelling as it vibrated on a much better Number 23 (Mercury) which is directly supporting the year 2012. 18) Bol Bachchan (Releasing on 6th July 2012.

Verdict: Hit):- The title of this Ajay Devgn-Abhishek Bachchan action comedy is adding up to Number 37 - which is 'good news' as it is a very favorable number. Whil Abhishek (5th February 1976) will bring in the laughs and pull the house down, Ajay (2nd April 1969) will succeed in adding a dose of thrill.

Tip: The trio of Ajay Devgn-Abhishek Bachchan-Rohit Shetty which did not find many takers in their last attempt 'Zameen' will be hitting the 'bulls eye' this time. 18) Ek Tha Tiger (Releasing in August 2012.

Verdict: Super Hit):- The title of this Eid attraction coming from Yashraj Films vibrates on Number 32 - which is a lucky number usually associated with combinations of people and nations. Just that the person should hold to his/her own judgment and opinions, if not, his/her plans are likely to become wrecked by the stubbornness and stupidity of others.

The year 2012 which adds up to Number 5 (Mercury) being directly in sync with the name of the film would make it one of the biggest hits of the year. Salman (27th December 1965) in his 47th year and Katrina (16th July 1984) in her 29th are capable of breaking all box office records.

Tip: As the exact release date hasn't been decided, coming on 3rd or 24th August would be the best option. 19) Joker (Releasing on 30th August 2012.

Verdict: Hit):- The title of this fantasy adventure 3D film adds up to Number 17 which is an extremely fortunate number. Plus the year 2012 (Number 5 - Mercury) is supportive of people, places, names etc.

which vibrate on Number 8 (Saturn) and hence the film may actually turn out to be a delightful experience. Akshay (9th September 1967) in his 45th year would be liked for his work while Sonakshi (2nd June 1987) would also make her presence felt.

Tip: Director Shirish Kunder may finally get it 'right' this time. 20) Raaz 3 (Releasing on 31st August 2012.

Verdict: Hit):- The title of this 3D horror film adds up to Number 14 - which is fortunate for dealings with money, speculation and changes in business, but there is always a strong element of risk and danger attached to it, generally owing to the actions and foolhardiness of others. From the meaning derived from it, this one will take you on an enjoyable ride and everyone involved with the project from actors Emraan Hashmi, Sunny Leone, Rahul Bhatt and director Vikram Bhatt will tend to gain from this project.

Tip: Vikram will complete his 'hat-trick' with the success of this film. 21) Heroine (Releasing in September 2012.

Verdict: Hit):- The title of this Madhur Bhandarkar production adds up to Number 30 - which is good, but nothing great. His most ambitious project till date, Madhur is likely to receive both bouquets and flak/ brick bats in this Bollywoodised version of his own 'Fashion'.

Kareena (21st September 1980) in her 33rd year will be loved across the board for putting her heart, sweat and blood in a role which most actresses wait for a lifetime to play on screen. Tip: The movie will turn to be too much of a predictable fare who people who always expect something different Madhur every time.

22) Khiladi 786 (Releasing in November 2012. Verdict: Flop):- The title of this Akshay Kumar - Himesh Reshammiya jointly produced and enacted film is vibrating on Number 38 - which is a very unlucky number.

It denotes uncertainties and treachery. It foreshadows trials, tribulation, unexpected dangers, unreliable friends and deception caused by members of the opposite sex.

It gives grave warning if it comes out in anything concerning future events. Akshay (9th September 1967) who is Number 9 (Mars) person does not gel with a Number 5 (Mercury) at all and fellow partner Himesh (23rd July 1973) is directly ruled by this number.

A perfect recipe for a 'disaster'. As a result, the movie will be a box office dud.

Tip: Their association will soon go kaput and this may be their first and last project together. 23) Race 2 (Releasing on 30th November 2012.

Verdict: Hit):- The vibration of the sequel to the 2008 hit film is summing up to Number 13 - contrary to popular belief, this number is not unfortunate. Just that, it is symbolized as a power which should not be misused or it may wreak destruction upon itself.

In short, the second part will turn out to be a bigger success and all the actors namely Saif Ali Khan (16th August 1970), Anil Kapoor (24th December 1959), John Abraham (17th December 1972), Deepika Padukone (5th January 1986), Jacqueline Fernandez (2nd June 1985) and Ameesha Patel (9th June 1975) will 'race' ahead in their respective careers post the release of this film. Tip: The movie should hit the screens on 23rd November 2012 as that's the best date to extract fantastic results.

24) Son Of Sardar (Releasing on 30th November 2012. Verdict: Flop):- The title of this Ajay Devgn produced venture is adding up to Number 43 - which is an unfortunate number symbolized by the signs of revolution, upheaval, strife, failure and prevention.

The film may draw unnecessary attention due to some controversy or the other during its release, but even that may not impress the audiences to make a beeline outside cinemas. Tip: Even powerhouse performers like Ajay Devgn (2nd April 1969) and Sanjay Dutt's (29th July 1959) antics may fail to draw enough attention.

25) Dabangg 2 (Releasing in December 2012. Verdict: Super Hit):- The title of this sequel to the 2010 blockbuster film vibrates on Number 21 - which is symbolized by the picture of 'the Universe' and it is also called 'the Crown of the Magi'.

It is a number of advancement, honors, elevation in life and general success. This one will break the records of the first part and many other films released during the year 2012.

Every section of the audience will simply lap this film up without giving any second thoughts and it would make this - the highest grossing film of the year. Tip: The best is reserved for the last in 2012.

Releasing the film on the 14th or the 21st of December will be my advice to producer and first time director Arbaaz Khan (less)

And hence, Ajay Devgn and Prakash Jha too have decided to forget their past differences and work together once again in Jha's next, Satsang . A source revealed to Mumbai Mirror, "Ajay wanted to let bygones be bygones.

When he came to know that Prakash Jha was facing opposition in certain states regarding the release of Aarakshan, Ajay decided to help him out in whatever way he could. He just made a few calls to his acquaintances in Punjab and helped Prakash have a disturbance-free release in the state.

" After Prakash Jha came to know of Ajay Devgn's gesture, the filmmaker offered the actor his next film. "The script has interested the actor.

It is about corruption and is called Satsang. Jha had said last year that Katrina would be a part of this film," added the source.

This is the first time Devgn and Kaif would work opposite each other. According to the buzz in the industry, Ajay and Prakash fell out when Prakash asked the actor to be a part of Aarakshan.

"Ajay felt the role did not have enough scope for him as an actor. He had already played a guy from a lower caste in Rajneeti.

It just did not challenge him. Jha did not take it well and went ahead with Saif," said the source (less)

Rumour has it that Devgn and Mangat had a spat over Vishal Bhardwaj's film Matru Ki Bijlee Ka Mandola recently. Devgn was miffed with his friend Mangat when the latter held meetings with Fox Star Studios, the co-producers of the film in question without informing the actor.

A source informed Mumbai Mirror, "It was a misunderstanding between friends. One person (Mangat) took his friend (Devgn) for granted.

The friend, in turn, felt that his personal space has been invaded. Maybe, outsiders fuelled the fight.

" According to sources, it started when Devgn agreed to do the film and Mangat got a bit carried away. A source close to Devgn and Mangat informed, "Mangat began discussing the project on an individual level with the co-producers.

Devgn was not amused. He felt that Mangat should not have ventured into further talks with Fox Star Studios without keeping Devgn in the loop about each and every minute detail.

" While Devgn getting angry with his friend over space issues might have been justified, Mangat too had his reasons. "To be fair to Mangat, he did not imagine in his wildest dreams that Ajay will back out from the film.

Also Mangat is after all, the co-producer for the project," added the source. Devgn opted out of Matru Ki Bijlee Ka Mandola since he was lured by the money Viacom 18 Motion Pictures offered him for Ashwini Dhir's Son Of Sardar (Mumbai Mirror, October 15, 2011).

Hoping that the misunderstanding between the two long standing friends in Bollywod gets sorted out, the source added, "Let's hope it gets resolved. Ajay Devgn and Kumar Mangat go back a long way.

They have always been there for each other." Ajay Devgn and Kumar Mangat have known each other for the last 20 years.

For the last 18 years Mangat has successfully managed Devgn's career. In 1996, Devgn started a film distribution outfit, Devgan Entertainment & Software Ltd.

with Mangat as the CEO. Mangat soon went on to become an independent producer with Ajay playing the lead role in most of his ventures - Omkatra, Sunday, Atithi Tum Kab Jaoge, Toonpur Ka Superrhero.

Matru Ki Bijlee Ka Mandola now stars Imran Khan in the lead (Mumbai Mirror, October 25, 2011 ). After Devgn walked out from the project, Bhardwaj had approached Shahid Kapoor who politely declined the offer, citing date issues (Mumbai Mirror, October 20, 2011).

While Devgn and Mangat chose not to comment, Devgn's official spokesperson said, "The rumours of a tiff between Ajay Devgn and Kumar Mangat are baseless and untrue. Mangat has worked with Devgn as his business manager for more than 20 years; he has established his brilliance as a reputed producer as well.

Their working partnership is based on trust and respect. They always ask each other advice and guidance for every project.

" (less)

Sources say that he called up producer Ratan Jain and asked him to shift the release date of Tezz. "Imtiaz Ali's film had booked the date before Tezz, so Ajay thought it was prudent to move Tezz rather than ask the other film to move.

Ajay shares a good rapport with Ranbir since Raajneeti and did not want a clash with him," says the source. "Also, Ajay is close to Ashtavinayak, who are has produced Rockstar.

The Golmaal series, which has added to Ajay's stardom, has been produced by Ashtavinayak," adds the source. Ratan Jain remained unavailable for comment (less)

Man without a cell phone by Palestinian director Sameh Zoabi, another notable film screened, tells the story of Salem, an Olive farmer determined to go into a fight against a nearby Israeli cell phone tower he fears is poisoning the villagers with radiation. As efforts to remove the tower disrupts his son's precious cellphone reception preventing further communication with potential girlfriends, he is forced to face the battle and grow up to be a man.

Spanish film The Monk directed by Dominik Moll also captured attention with its adaptation of the notorious Gothic novel By Matthew G Lewis published in 1796. It tells the tragic tale of 'Friar Ambrosio' set in 17th century Catholic Spain.

Abandoned at birth in front of the doors of a Capuchian monastery and raised by friars, Ambrosio becomes a preacher much admired for his fervour and feared for his uncompromising character. He believes he is sheltered from all temptations.

The arrival of a mysterious novice undermines his convictions and leads him down to the path of sin. L Argent , the final mesmerizing film by eminent filmmaker Robert Bresson was screened in the retrospective section.

Based on a Leo Tolstoy's short story, it won him the best director award at Cannes film festival in 1983. It details the tragic chain of events following the passage of a forged bank note by two school boys.

The film is shot in Bresson's influential minimalist style and explores his signature themes of moral conflict, guilt, grace and redemption with extraordinary force and power. Belvedere , a Croation film by Ahmed Imamovic, telling the story of a widow yearning to forget the tragedy of war 15 years after the ethnic cleansing of Bosnia Herzegovina was another major attraction.

An emotionally rich portrait of war's troubled aftermath, the film paints an uncommon image of patience, love and forgiveness. In the retrospective section, Greek director Theo Angelopoulos Landscape in the Mist (1988) stood out.

It tells the story of two children attempting to stow away everyday on a German-bound train to reunite with their unknown father, who according to their mother, lives in Germany. Thai film Eternity by Sivaroj Kongsakul told in three time periods is a story of love and ghosts.

A deceased retraces the steps of his youth, trying to find a young school teacher he fell in love with. Meanwhile, Malayalam film Aadimadhyantham , excluded from the competition section on technical grounds, continued to create controversy as director Sherry staged a protest before IFFK's main venue along with the child artiste who acted in the movie.

Kerala State Chalachitra Academy chairman Priyadarshan said he would consider changing the rules of the festival by-law in view of the complaints. Tweet (less)

And hence, Ajay Devgn and Prakash Jha too have decided to forget their past differences and work together once again in Jha's next, Satsang. A source revealed to Mumbai Mirror, "Ajay wanted to let bygones be bygones.

When he came to know that Prakash Jha was facing opposition in certain states regarding the release of Aarakshan, Ajay decided to help him out in whatever way he could. He just made a few calls to his acquaintances in Punjab and helped Prakash have a disturbance-free release in the state.

" After Prakash Jha came to know of Ajay Devgn's gesture, the filmmaker offered the actor his next film. "The script has interested the actor.

It is about corruption and is called Satsang. Jha had said last year that Katrina would be a part of this film," added the source.

This is the first time Devgn and Kaif would work opposite each other. According to the buzz in the industry, Ajay and Prakash fell out when Prakash asked the actor to be a part of Aarakshan.

"Ajay felt the role did not have enough scope for him as an actor. He had already played a guy from a lower caste in Rajneeti.

It just did not challenge him. Jha did not take it well and went ahead with Saif," said the source (less)

On the other hand, Ajay Devgn has been named the best actor for Rohit Shetty's Singham , while Farhan Akhtar will be conferred with best director award for Don 2 - The King Is Back . Filmmaker Ramesh Sippy, veteran lyricist Gulzar and T.

P. Aggarwal, chairman, Film Federation of India will be given lifetime achievement awards, according to Daya Nand Vats, general secretary of the Sangh.

The hero of all-time hit award goes to actor Anil Kapoor. NDTV has been named the best Hindi news channel, while Asian Academy of Film and TV has been named the best institute for film and TV.

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"Akshay has always been a guiding force from Garam Masala itself. I was very raw then.

I have learnt a lot from him," said John. John, who built a muscular body for his last release Force , even feels Akshay is fit as a fiddle at 44.

"Even during Force I was always asked who is the fittest man in the industry and I have always said it is Akshay Kumar and I stand by it. He is a true inspiration in a lot more ways than one.

"To look so fit and handsome all the time is really difficult and he does it all the time," added John. Desi Boyz marks the directorial debut of Rohit Dhawan, son of filmmaker David Dhawan.

Also starring Deepika Padukone, Chitrangada Singh and Omi Vaidya, the film will release Nov 25. 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)

The Salman-Kareena starrer Bodyguard released on Eid, SRK's dream project RA.One has been slated to release on Diwali and his other venture Don 2 will have a Christmas release.

And now we hear that filmmakers Priyadarshan and Reema Kagti are both vying for a Republic Day release next year. Priyadarshan's action-thriller Tezz, starring Ajay Devgn, was supposed to release on November 11 but to avert a clash with Imtiaz Ali's Rockstar, the director and producers Venus decided to postpone the film's release to January 26.

However, a source informed us that the Aamir Khan starrer directed by Reema Kagti, which is still untitled, is scheduled to release on the same day. Reportedly, the Tezz producers are trying hard to convince the producers of Kagti's film to postpone their release as they had already blocked the coveted Republic Day weekend first.

When contacted, Sanjeev Lamba CEO Reliance Big Pictures confirmed that Kagti's film was slated to release on January 26. He said, "That's the planned date.

" The source said, "There was no sign of Kagti's film with Aamir releasing on January 26, when the Tezz producers Venus announced their film. And now suddenly the Aamir film shows up catching the Tezz produers off guard.

Now they've no choice but to shift." Ratan Jain of Venus said, "I am not aware about the other film.

But we will be releasing our film on 26 January." When informed that Reliance is sure about its release date for the Kagti film, Jain reluctantly admitted, "We might have to move by a week.

When we selected January 26, we were not aware of any other film on the same date." Apparently, Dibakar Bannerjee also plans to release his Emraan Hashmi-Abhay Deol starrer Shanghai on January 26 (less)

If I ever do an action film, I would love to do something that Salman does. For that I would have to work very hard on my body but I'll try to do that," Ali told reporters here.

The 31-year-old, who made his Bollywood debut with a small-budget blockbuster Tere Bin Laden , went on to grab a role in Yash Raj Films' Mere Brother Ki Dulhan . Currently he is filming for yet another Bollywood venture London Paris New York , being produced by Goldie Behl and Shrishti Arya and helmed by newcomer Anu Menon.

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"Akshay has always been a guiding force from Garam Masala itself. I was very raw then.

I have learnt a lot from him," said John. John, who built a muscular body for his last release Force , even feels Akshay is fit as a fiddle at 44.

"Even during Force I was always asked who is the fittest man in the industry and I have always said it is Akshay Kumar and I stand by it. He is a true inspiration in a lot more ways than one.

"To look so fit and handsome all the time is really difficult and he does it all the time," added John. Desi Boyz marks the directorial debut of Rohit Dhawan, son of filmmaker David Dhawan.

Also starring Deepika Padukone, Chitrangada Singh and Omi Vaidya, the film will release Nov 25. Tweet (less)

The Salman-Kareena starrer Bodyguard released on Eid, SRK's dream project RA.One has been slated to release on Diwali and his other venture Don 2 will have a Christmas release.

And now we hear that filmmakers Priyadarshan and Reema Kagti are both vying for a Republic Day release next year. Priyadarshan's action-thriller Tezz, starring Ajay Devgn , was supposed to release on November 11 but to avert a clash with Imtiaz Ali's Rockstar, the director and producers Venus decided to postpone the film's release to January 26.

However, a source informed us that the Aamir Khan starrer directed by Reema Kagti, which is still untitled, is scheduled to release on the same day. Reportedly, the Tezz producers are trying hard to convince the producers of Kagti's film to postpone their release as they had already blocked the coveted Republic Day weekend first.

When contacted, Sanjeev Lamba CEO Reliance Big Pictures confirmed that Kagti's film was slated to release on January 26. He said, "That's the planned date.

" The source said, "There was no sign of Kagti's film with Aamir releasing on January 26, when the Tezz producers Venus announced their film. And now suddenly the Aamir film shows up catching the Tezz produers off guard.

Now they've no choice but to shift." Ratan Jain of Venus said, "I am not aware about the other film.

But we will be releasing our film on 26 January." When informed that Reliance is sure about its release date for the Kagti film, Jain reluctantly admitted, "We might have to move by a week.

When we selected January 26, we were not aware of any other film on the same date." Apparently, Dibakar Bannerjee also plans to release his Emraan Hashmi-Abhay Deol starrer Shanghai on January 26 (less)

A source revealed, "Sajid Khan is one f the top most commercial filmmaker of recent times. After the success of Heyy Babyy and Housefull, he is also one of the most soight after directors.

Vashu Bhagnani had signed him for the project some time back, reportedly, for Rs 12 crore. Ajay Devgn too has been signed for the yet untitled project.

He too has received a big sum of money speculated to be around Rs 15-18 crore." "Sajid Khan is a movie buff and a self proclaimed lover of the 80s classics.

he has always tried to maintain some element of the old films in his directorial ventures. In Housefull for instance, he incorporated the trademark Mithunda pelvic thrust in the Pappa Jag Jayega song.

He is a huge Sridevi fan as well. Himmatwala was an obvious choice for remake.

Everyone loved his idea and the script is now under process," added the source. In fact, Sajid is also trying to get rights for the hit music of the original film.

"In the past, Sajid had bought rights of Apni Toh Jaise Taise for his film Housefull. It is likely that he would buy the rights of the Himmatwala songs like Naino Mein Sapna, Taki O Taki and Ladki Nahi Lakdi Ka Khamba hai.

However, everything is being kept under wraps at the moment. The producers want to make a big official announcement soon," informed another source.

When contacted Vashu Bhagnani the producer of the film said, "Yes I am making a film with Sajid Khan and Ajay Devgn but it will go on the floors next year. Nothing has been finalised yet.

" When asked about the film being a remake of Himmatwala, he said, "It is a commercial action romantic film but it is a fresh subject." Sajid Khan refused to divulge any details either and said, "Vashuji, Ajay and I are coming together for the film.

I had told Vashuji that after Housefull 2 finishes, I will make a film for him and I am standing by my commitment. I am directing the film and it will be a typical Sajid Khan film, which promises wholesome entertainment for the entire family.

As far as the subject of the film goes, it is too early to give any details and I cannot disclose the subject at this point of time." (less)

Some of Jalota's popular bhajans include "Aisi lagi lagan", "Main nahi makhan khayo", "Rang de chunariya", "Jag mein sundar hai do naam", and "Chadariya jhini re jhini". He has recorded over 2,000 bhajans, ghazals and songs.

Priyadarshan has made several southern and Bollywood films in his career of over three decades. Some of his popular Bollywood projects include "Hera Pheri", "Hungama", "Hulchul", "Garam Masala", "Bhagam Bhag", "Chup Chup Ke", "Dhol", and "Bhool Bhulaiyaa".

In the south, he has made films in Malayalam, Telugu and Tamil. These have included "Megham", "Chandralekha", "Kala Pani" and the National award-winning "Kanchivaram".

He is currently working on " Tezz ", a Hindi action film, which has a cameo by Mohanlal (less)

On married actors being successful in Bollywood, Shahid says, "I agree that most of our superstars in the industry are married..

.are successful.

But again it (being successful) is not so much related to whether you are married or not. It takes certain amount of time to establish yourself as an actor.

Usually to reach there you need the support of somebody who loves you, takes care of you. "And so you end up getting married and settling down.

It (marriage) gives you a lot of confidence and certain sense of stability. So I think it is beautiful if your partner is with you on your journey in life.

..

if you have somebody to share your success it is great," he said. Shahid also said he is available for tying the knot.

"I am available and koi bhi achi ladki chahe toh..

.(If any of the good girls want).

..

I am available. I don't have any reservations for marriage," he said.

The 30-year-old was dating Kareena Kapoor when they started filming for Ken Ghosh's 2004 film Fida . They were going steady until they separated during the making of Jab We Met in 2007.

Since then, he has been linked with Vidya Balan, Priyanka Chopra, Deepika Padukone, Anushka Sharma and Bipasha Basu. But he has never admitted to dating any of these beauties.

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If I ever do an action film, I would love to do something that Salman does. For that I would have to work very hard on my body but I'll try to do that," Ali told reporters here.

The 31-year-old, who made his Bollywood debut with a small-budget film "Tere Bin Laden", went on to grab a role in Yash Raj Films' "Mere Brother Ki Dulhan". Currently he is filming for yet another Bollywood venture "London Paris New York ", being produced by Goldie Behl and Shrishti Arya and helmed by newcomer Anu Menon (less)

"I was different back then, I am at ease with the camera more now and Akshay feels the same. He said we have better comic timing and chemistry today.

He likes the new me" said John. John also joked about Akshay's obsession with Ayurveda .

"If need be he would use it for any and every physical ailment possible" smiled John (less)

"Akshay has always been a guiding force from Garam Masala itself. I was very raw then.

I have learnt a lot from him," said John. John, who built a muscular body for his last release Force , even feels Akshay is fit as a fiddle at 44.

"Even during Force I was always asked who is the fittest man in the industry and I have always said it is Akshay Kumar and I stand by it. He is a true inspiration in a lot more ways than one.

"To look so fit and handsome all the time is really difficult and he does it all the time," added John. Desi Boyz marks the directorial debut of Rohit Dhawan, son of filmmaker David Dhawan.

Also starring Deepika Padukone, Chitrangada Singh and Omi Vaidya, the film will release Nov 25. Tweet (less)

Says a source close to Devgn, "Director Rohit Shetty and he had signed on the music directors of the original Marathi song as they wanted an item song for Bol Bachchan. The song also featured AD and Abhishek Bachchan in it.

Rohit was planning to approach Katrina Kaif or Kareena Kapoor for the same. This would be the first time that a Rohit Shetty film would have an item song.

But everything changed when Karan approached Ajay-Atul to do Chikni Chameli for them in Agneepath." The music duo also requested Devgn for permission to do the song with Karan instead as the film was releasing before Bol Bachchan and doing a film with KJo would mean a lot to them.

"Ajay was moved by their request and immediately told them they could go ahead. Now Rohit and Ajay have decided to scrap the song from the film altogether.

It was a gesture few know about, including Karan himself." (less)

. Actor Ajay Devgn who is experiencing a career high with the success of Singham has proved that he has has a marketing mind, too.

The actor's film 'Tezz' directed by Priyadarshan was all set to release in November this year. However, a possible clash with Ranbir Kapoor's 'Rockstar' didn't seem to be a good idea.

Sources inform us that the Ajay-starrer will now release on January 26, 2012. The movie's release date will clash with Aamir Khan's film being directed by Reema Kagti , but the cast and crew of Tezz is all set to take up this challenge.

A source informs us, "The producers have obviously weighed the pros and cons, and taken the decision." With Ajay Devgn proving to have the Midas touch, and with Aamir Khan knowing the tricks of the trade by the back of his hand, this will be one takkar that's going to be good to watch! (less)

Instead Deepika chose to make her debut with Farah Khan's Om Shanti Om . After that Priyadarshan stayed away from Deepika until 2008 when Shah Rukh Khan used his clout to persuade Deepika to perform an item song in Priyadarshan's Billu , which SRK's Red Chillies Entertainment had produced.

The thawing of the ice had begun. Now it's time for the director and actress to finally work together.

"We broke the ice during the song in Billu . Now I've a role just right for her," said Priyan.

Priyadarshan, who has directed about 83 films in his 30-year career, had no releases in 2011, but he's ready to make up for the lost year with as many as four films this year. Of these, the 'family comedy' (as he dubs it) which he will direct in July for Shree Ashtavinayak Cine Vision Limited has him specially kicked.

Not only is he working with Abhishek Bachchan for the first time, he has also reached out to Deepika for the female lead opposite the actor. It's a double delight for Priyadarshan since he has never worked with both the actors.

"Abhishek and I have been planning projects together for the longest time. We were supposed to do a bio-pic on Chandrashekhar Azad.

But who watches historicals any more? I've finally zeroed in on the perfect project for Abhishek. We start shooting in July," said Priyadarshan.

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Explaining why Sanjay and Ajay decided to shut the door on Kangna permanently, a source said, "Sanjay and Ajay have been hearing many stories of Kangna's uncharitable remarks, things that she has been telling people in the industry. How long could they tolerate it?" The lady known for her extreme remarks undid the Sanjay-Kangna-Ajay collaboration when in a recent interview, replying to an accusation that she had been seeking attention said, 'Honestly why do I need to take anyone's name to further my career? I'm in a very good place.

I can truly understand if I were to drop Tom Cruise's name to make an impact. Why would I need to take any other names?' Unrepentant, the actress continued with such shocking remarks, though not to the media.

The next thing Kangna knew, she was left out from the guestlist at the launch of the Rascals first look. The event organised on August 11 did not have the leading lady Kangna attending it.

Reportedly, Sanjay and Ajay had decided to strike off her name from the list. While a shocked Kangna called David Dhawan , the director of the film to understand why she has been left out from the publicity campaign, the actress failed to receive a convincing reply.

A source close to the film, has now revealed that the actress will not be invited for the forthcoming music launch or the interviews scheduled for the promotion of Rascals. "She is completely out from the promotion of Rascals.

She will not be taken on the publicity drive to outstations either," added the source. A source close to Kangna defended the actress and said, "Kangna has no idea why such stories are surfacing about her.

Sanju and Ajay are extremely warm to her. And she is always happy to work with people who want to work with her.

However, she feels it's fine for people to have personal preferences otherwise." Not too long ago, Kangna was an integral part of the Sanjay Dutt clan.

She was seen at every party thrown by the actor. She was even believed to be a close friend to Ajay Devgn.

However, all that seems to be a thing of the past now. Her equation with Sanjay's wife Maanyata too went downhill.

In fact, Ajay hardly spoke to her when she shot for the final schedule of Rascals (Mumbai Mirror, January 14). This also explains Kangna's absence at the recent parties hosted by Dutt.

Interestingly, Dutt loyalist Dharam Oberoi (CEO, SAnjay Dutt Productions) who used to handle Kangna's work has also cut off all professional ties with her, claimed sources. Kangna, Sanjay and Ajay remained unavailable for comment (less)