All the three heroines of Sajid Khan's Housefull - Deepika Padukone, Lara Dutta and Jiah Khan had men drooling over them as they were seen prancing around in a two piece on the beach comfortably. Anushka Sharma too has joined the bikini club and she will be seen wearing it in Yashraj Film's (YRF) Ladies v/s Ricky Bahl.

YRF had got Esha Deol and Bipasha Basu to wear a two piece swimwear for Dhoom and Dhoom 2 respectively. Shazahn Padamsee, who joined the Housefull 2 team some time back, is very much keen on donning a bikini, but sadly for her, the film may not require any of its female leads to wear an itsy-bitsy outfit since the film's sequel doesn't demand so.

But, the perky actress is hoping that Sajid Khan brings in a twist in the tale and she gets the opportunity to wear a bikini. "I am full on.

.I am dieting, I am working out, I am fit.

.bikini dena hai de do," she said recently.

And now it is Sonam Kapoor who would like to shed the girl-next-door image and wear a bikini. Sonam says, she has absolutely no inhibitions in wearing one.

"I have worn angrakhas, salwar-kameez, bandana, jeans, skirts, gunjee - whatever it takes. If the character I play is on the beach - the correct gear would have to be a bikini.

And then I wear it in real life, too," she squeals away naughtily. But the only problem is her figure, she says.

"I want to wear a bikini but currently my figure doesn't permit me to do so," adds Sonam who will be seen in a glamorous avatar in soon to be released Players. Few years back Priyanka Chopra or Piggy Chops flaunted her body in Dostana in a gold colour bikini.

Then Kareena Kapoor set the temperature soaring in a hot bikini scene in Yash Raj's Tashan where she flaunted her size zero hot bod in Chalia..

. song.

Lara worked really hard for a perfect bikini body in underwater adventure movie Blue. Kangana Ranaut was easily convinced by director David Dhawan to wear one in the recently released Rascals.

Mallika Sherawat wore a bikini in Bachke Rehna Re Baba. A very bold and confident Mugdha Godse looked extremely hot and comfortable in a bikini scene in her debut film Fashion.

Voluptuous Ameesha Patel shed off a few kilos to seduce Saif Ali Khan in Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic's Lazy Lamhe song. Her underwater sensuous moves in bikini was the only highlight of the flop film.

The bikini babes have certainly arrived in a big way in Bollywood (less)

All the three heroines of Sajid Khan's Housefull - Deepika Padukone, Lara Dutta and Jiah Khan had men drooling over them as they were seen prancing around in a two piece on the beach comfortably. Anushka Sharma too has joined the bikini club and she will be seen wearing it in Yashraj Film's (YRF) Ladies v/s Ricky Bahl.

YRF had got Esha Deol and Bipasha Basu to wear a two piece swimwear for Dhoom and Dhoom 2 respectively. Shazahn Padamsee, who joined the Housefull 2 team some time back, is very much keen on donning a bikini, but sadly for her, the film may not require any of its female leads to wear an itsy-bitsy outfit since the film's sequel doesn't demand so.

But, the perky actress is hoping that Sajid Khan brings in a twist in the tale and she gets the opportunity to wear a bikini. "I am full on.

.I am dieting, I am working out, I am fit.

.bikini dena hai de do," she said recently.

And now it is Sonam Kapoor who would like to shed the girl-next-door image and wear a bikini. Sonam says, she has absolutely no inhibitions in wearing one.

"I have worn angrakhas, salwar-kameez, bandana, jeans, skirts, gunjee - whatever it takes. If the character I play is on the beach - the correct gear would have to be a bikini.

And then I wear it in real life, too," she squeals away naughtily. But the only problem is her figure, she says.

"I want to wear a bikini but currently my figure doesn't permit me to do so," adds Sonam who will be seen in a glamorous avatar in soon to be released Players. Few years back Priyanka Chopra or Piggy Chops flaunted her body in Dostana in a gold colour bikini.

Then Kareena Kapoor set the temperature soaring in a hot bikini scene in Yash Raj's Tashan where she flaunted her size zero hot bod in Chalia..

. song.

Lara worked really hard for a perfect bikini body in underwater adventure movie Blue. Kangana Ranaut was easily convinced by director David Dhawan to wear one in the recently released Rascals.

Mallika Sherawat wore a bikini in Bachke Rehna Re Baba. A very bold and confident Mugdha Godse looked extremely hot and comfortable in a bikini scene in her debut film Fashion.

Voluptuous Ameesha Patel shed off a few kilos to seduce Saif Ali Khan in Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic's Lazy Lamhe song. Her underwater sensuous moves in bikini was the only highlight of the flop film.

The bikini babes have certainly arrived in a big way in Bollywood (less)

"Prateik is very spontaneous and humble. He always instructs and supports me whenever I get nervous so this chemistry worked on ramp as well," Kalki told reporters after the show.

Dhaka, whose collection was a blend of modern fashion and traditional applique, gave the two sets of dresses to flaunt on the fashion runway. In the first half, Kalki was seen wearing a fish-cut gown with minimal accessories, while Prateik shed his shy demeanour to flaunt his six-pack abs in a lycra shirt with buttons wide open, and a pair of cotton trousers.

The second half saw Kalki flaunting a flowing off-shoulder gown with an asymmetrical hemline, and Prateik walked in a chiffon, beige-coloured shirt with a pair of printed trousers. Dhaka's collection was a mix of dresses, gowns, trousers in fabrics like silk, chiffons, linen silk, cotton silk and lace.

"The elements of tassle played a major role in my collection and every ensemble will reflect the mood of summer. The colour palatte has a country feel and touch of seventies.

The major shades were taupe, pink browns, dull acid green, ivory and dove grey," said Dhaka, who is "looking forward to some great business." --Indo-Asian-News-Service nv/rb/snb (less)

"I love paintings, but I believe painters are not created, they are born. The same applies to music.

I tried my hand at singing, but failed everytime. I have realised that every person is born to do a special task, I am born to act while these painters are born to paint," the 42-year-old actor said here while inaugurating a painting exhibition.

Meanwhile, Manoj, who had two releases "Aarakshan" and "Lanka" in 2011, has a busy calendar this year. "First is 'Chittagong Uprising', distributed by Anurag Kashyap and Sunil Bohra .

Then there is 'Gangs of Wasseypur'. I still have to work out other projects but in all, there are expected to be at least four of my releases this year," said the National award-winning actor.

He first won the National award for best supporting actor for his performance in "Satya", and his second award came as a special jury trophy for his work in "Pinjar". Manoj started his career in 1997 with "Tamanna" and went on to do films like "Satya", "Shool", "Zubeidaa", "Pinjar", "Veer Zaara" and "Raajneeti" (less)

When asked about her character in Desi Boyz , Deepika revealed, "I am an independent girl in real life. I am not dependent on my boyfriend financially unlike my character in Desi Boyz.

" When the actress shifted to her new plush pad in southern Mumbai (Prabhadevi), stories of the 16 Crore (approx) flat being a gift from Sid Mallya were circulated. Deepika had set the record straight eve then about the new flat being bought by herself and not her close friend Siddhartha Mallya as reported.

You go girl (less)

It is director Sachin Kundalkar's brainchild, and has Rani all charged up. Together they sat down and shortlisted a few songs.

Rani personally narrowed down the three tracks to be used." Choreographed by Vaibhavi Merchant , the song will have Rani dressed up as the characters from three signature hits: Mohini in Ek Do Teen (Tezaab), Manju in Na Jaane Kahan Se (Chaalbaaz) and Radha in Tu Tu Tu Tara (Bol Radha Bol), made popular by Madhuri, Sridevi and Juhi respectively.

The outfits and the dance steps will be similar to the original. Adds the source, "Neeta Lulla has replicated the minutest details of their costumes.

" Sachin confirms, "This is a personal tribute to Sri, Mads and Juhi. They are actresses we both adore and whose films we've grown up watching.

It's a dream sequence, about which Rani and I are super excited." Needless to say, the inspiring icons will see the film.

"We both can't wait to show Aiyya to all three ladies," concludes the director (less)

Thank you so much for all the wishes for Aishwarya on her Godh Bharai. Read out some of your messages to her," Abhishek posted on Twitter page Wednesday.

The baby shower had taken place at the Bachchan household Jalsa Tuesday and actors like Saira Banu , Asha Parekh and Dimple Kapadia , as well as designers like Neeta Lulla and Shaina NC had turned up. But the day-long festive ritual hasn't stopped the 35-year-old actor from going back to work.

He is currently shooting for Abbas-Mustan's "Players". "So after a day filled with tradition, Indian customs and ladies, it's back to work.

Gotta start playing again for players!" he posted. "Very excited with the way the film is shaping up.

It's looking great. Will let y'all know when we release the 1st look.

Will be soon!" he added (less)

When asked about Deepika's style, the Kingfisher scion nonchalantly said: "She has not got a bad sense of style either." But Siddharth played it safe when asked to choose the most stylish person of 2011.

"I've always actually said this that Prateik Babbar is pretty stylish. He has got his own sort of quirky sense of style.

So he is pretty cool," he said. Siddharth has reportedly been dating Deepika for a while and the duo has been spotted together on several occasions.

Tweet (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)

Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia D'Souza tied the knot in full blown Maharashtrian style at a suburban five star on Friday afternoon. The baraat left Riteish's juhu residence at 11 am.

Genelia's parents and brothers waited at the venue to receive them. The wedding began at 12.

48 pm, according to the pre-decided mahurat. While Genelia looked lovely in a Neeta Lulla saree, Riteish wore the quintessential sherwani.

The actor also tweeted his own wedding picture right after the ceremony was over. Spotted at the wedding were Bollywood celebrities Akshay Kumar , Ajay Devgn, Kajol , Suniel Shetty, Ashutosh Gowariker, Karan Johar , Hiroo Johar, Shahid Kapoor , Asin, Sajid Khan, Sajid Nadiadwala, Abhishek Bachchan , Jaya Bachchan , Ken Ghosh, Rahul Dev, Indra Kumar, Maria Goretti, Subhash Ghai and more.

Top politicians, friends opf Riteish's father Vilasrao Deshmukh were also spotted at the do. After the Maharashtrian wedding, the couple will also have a church ceremony today (less)

The groom, wearing a white sherwani and red 'feta' (turban), entered the hotel riding a white 'ghodi'. Genelia wore a red and gold lehenga designed by Ritu Kumar .

The 'baaraat' started from the grounds near Grand Hyatt. Amidst the singing and dancing, Riteish, with his face covered with a 'sehra' (flower veil), waved excitedly while sitting on the horse.

The actor's Congress minister father Vilasrao Deshmukh was dressed in a brown sherwani. Sharad Pawar , Praful Patel , Subodh Kant Sahay , Sunil Tatkare and Johny Joseph were among the political figures present at the wedding.

B-town guests present included Shah Rukh Khan, Abhishek Bachchan , Jaya Bachchan , Kajol and Ajay Devgn, Akshay Kumar , Sajid Khan, Karan Johar , Shahid Kapoor , Ashutosh Gowariker, Sajid Nadiadwala, Satish Shah, Asin, Jacky Bhagnani, Vashu Bhagnani, Ramesh Taurani, Nishka and Neeta Lulla. Riteish took to Twitter last night, saying, "Saw the Last sunset as a Bachelor.

" And soon after the wedding, the actor took to Twitter to post a photo of him and Genelia, with the caption, "MR & MRS DESHMUKH". The wedding capped three days of festivities that included sangeet, haldi, mehndi ceremonies and a traditional bachelorette party for Genelia.

The reception will take place tomorrow at the same hotel. Riteish and Genelia have been seeing each other since their Bollywood debut, 'Tujhe Meri Kasam' in 2003 but they chose to be secretive about it.

They finally opened up about their relationship last year. The couple will be seen romancing in their forthcoming film 'Tere Naal Love Ho Gaya' that will hit the theatres on February 24 (less)

R. Rahman and will be directed by K.

S. Ravikumar.

The shooting of the film was delayed as superstar Rajinikanth fell ill on the very first day of the shoot in April. He then took treatment for the kidney ailment in India and Singapore.

Announced earlier this year, Rana is a live action magnum opus with the legendary Rajinikanth playing a triple role in the film. The movie will be released in Tamil, Hindi and Telugu and stars Deepika Padukone and Sonu Sood in prominent roles.

"Great news! Shooting of 'Rana', starring Rajinikanth & Deepika Padukone, to resume. Decision on shooting dates will be taken in Dec," analyst Taran Adarsh tweeted.

Speaking to the press after the resumption of the shooting, Director Mr. K.

S Ravikumar said, "Though Rajinikanth has recovered fully well and is keen to start the shooting, we have delayed the start of the shooting, as we don't want to rush him to start the film shooting immediately, as the film has Rajini playing triple role and has some stunning stunt sequences. Sunil Lulla, MD, Eros International Media Ltd added, "It is a proud project for us and we don't mind waiting to be a part of this ambitious project with Rajinikanth as we want him to rest for some more time.

Hence we have decided to take the decision on the shooting dates in December 2011." Tweet (less)

The trip that began with her luggage being lost at the Dubai International Airport, ended with the actress being detained by the customs at Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport on arrival. Despite the actress having no undeclared goods, the ordeal lasted over an hour.

When contacted, Mugdha told Mumbai Mirror, "I had gone to Dubai for two days. It was for the premiere of my film Gali Gali Chor Hai.

My baggage failed to arrive on time. And I had to rush to a press conference.

" Thankfully, the actress on a shopping spree had picked up a top at the Delhi airport. "I wore the top at the press conference.

But I had nothing to wear for the premiere night. I called up Neeta Lulla.

She has an outlet in Dubai as well. She sent me a dress and that thankfully fitted me," informed Mugdha.

The lost baggage, however, gave Mugdha an excuse to shop. "I did a lot of shopping at the Dubai airport.

I had to pass time while I waited for my baggage," said the actress. The ordeal wasn't over yet.

On her arrival, the actress was detained by the customs officials. "Thankfully, they were polite and kind to me.

They did ask a lot of questions and I was stuck at the airport for over an hour. But I had no undeclared goods.

The good news after all this is that the airline called me on Friday to say that they have found my luggage and will be sending it over to me," added Mugdha (less)

Ramu too has announced his own version of The Ramayan. What's this latest fascination of Bollywood with the epic? It's mere coincidence because when this film was written, "Raavan" was not even in the picture.

The director and writer were so new that they didn't know how to get in touch with actors like me. Eventually, they did so but by the time they got in touch with me, "Raavan" had been made.

Ramu must be having his own take of how he wants to handle the mythological text. My "Lanka" is inspired by the relationship that Ravan and Vivishan shared.

"Lanka" explores the small town culture of western UP. You've played a character that would be synonymous to Ravan in mythology.

Is your role essentially evil? Not really. I play a powerful guy and he uses his power too when he falls for a girl, who doesn't reciprocate.

How would you define it in the context of the film industry? Power is the ability to give three hits in a year. Nothing else can give power.

Critics might praise my work but if my films keep failing at the BO, nobody will give me work. So, where you would find yourself on any powerlist? Oh! I would be very low in the pecking order.

That I am still managing to survive is only because of some directors, who have faith in me. Nothing goes against a person if he is part of a hit movie.

Whether he is talented or not is immaterial. Anurag Kashyap is one such director and you've done "Gangs of Wasseypur" with him recently.

How has been the experience been? Anurag uses me very well. He is too intelligent a director and considering that he tours the world over, he has a lot of new ideas.

After Shekhar Kapur and Mahesh Bhatt , he is Indian cinema's biggest actor's director. It's not easy to become a director who understands the emotional requirements of an actor.

Your "Chittagong" too will eventually be releasing. Are you aware of comparisons with "Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey"? Nobody is scared of comparisons but I must add that director Bedabrata Pain has a very different take on the subject.

A child in awe of Masterda is in the foreground, whereas I am the second or third lead in the movie. This movie has a new style of storytelling that I absolutely loved being a part of.

Having done movies like "Raajneeti" and "Aarakshan", are their any movies/roles of yours that you now can't sit and watch? I will never do a "Bewafaa" or a "Fareb" now. Today, I realize that I was not the right cast for these films and that I was not good in the roles either.

You admit that fatherhood has toned you down. What are the things you will never say or do now? Internally, there has been a shift in search towards spiritualism.

Of course, my daughter ( Ava Nayla ) has changed my life too. Even as I speak, she is sitting on my chest and looking at me with wide-eyed wonder.

Seeing her grow is a unique experience. I have calmed down a lot.

I am an actor and I have realized that even if I don't like a performance, I'll never say the truth on anyone's face. In this industry, people can't accept the truth.

As a child, you are told to be truthful. But as you grow up in the industry, you learn to be a liar.

That's a survival tactic. You might believe that you are saying the truth because you want to be honest.

But not only will you lose friends by doing so, you will also end up losing a few years in the industry by rubbing people the wrong way. So, what's the biggest lie in the industry? I'd like to mention two lies - talent survives and that a good film does well.

In reality, anybody can be a part of a hit film. He will survive and there will be hype surrounding him.

Truth is that a film that becomes a hit is not necessarily a good movie. Did you ever attract a Vivishan in your career? I am no Ravan in real life to have a Vivishan.

On a serious note, nobody is that close to me apart from my family. They are all very loyal to me both during my good and bad times.

There is no giant Lanka that I have built to be pulled down to ashes. What about your wife's film career? She is a mother now.

Currently, she is too involved with our daughter. She doesn't believe in keeping a domestic help and does everything by herself (less)

But then she vanished from the big screen for three years and returned with director Onir's film Sorry Bhai in 2008 followed by Mishra's another film Yeh Saali Zindagi this year. "What is different about commercial films is there are so many changes like there is so much of make-up, different hair styles, slow motion shots etc.

The exciting part was you glam-up for a role, you dance, you have those fantastic clothes, high heels and that whole girly thing," Chitrangada told PTI in an interview. "In the end a girl is a girl, we all love these things.

I had a great time doing all this," she said. Chitrangada is officially foraying into commercial cinema with Rohit Dhawan's Desi Boyz opposite Akshay Kumar.

"I don't think it is like a plan that I would do now do commercial films. I enjoy it and I hope I can carry it forward.

It's a good shift. Like I did off beat films for some time and now I will to do this for some time, she said.

Ask her about promotional strategies for both kind of cinema, Chitrangada, feels, commercial cinema brings in more recognition and connects with a larger audience. "Promotions are stronger for commercial films.

The numbers, the budget is high for marketing, there is a proper team. When there is a niche film you do it on that level.

It is a great and different experience," she said. Citing an example, Chitrangada said, "Like during one of our promotional tours, the kind of response that Akshay and John got was insane, incredible.

I was like surprised, got cold feet..

thousands of people jammed in a mall." Contrary to what you expect of Chitrangada, considering her on-screen image, she dons a glamorous look in yet-to-be released film Desi Boyz .

She has recreated the sexy and stylish college professor look for the movie. Since her character required her to look edgy, smart, stylish and yet mature, her stylist gave her fringes for her hairdo.

"I play Tanya Sharma, a professor at the Oxford University. Akshay's character Jerry and Tanya have a past.

When Tanya was a student, Jerry was her senior and she had a huge crush on him. He comes back to complete his studies while Tanya has rejoined the college as a professor.

Whenever Jerry is around, everything goes into slow motion," Chitrangada said. Desi Boyz , also starring John Abraham and Deepika Padukone, releases on November 25.

Now that she has ventured into commercial cinema, the actress would continue doing parallel cinema. "In terms of offbeat cinema if something exciting comes my way, which is challenging and a good role, with a good director like say Vishal Bhardwaj or somebody, I would love to do that again and go right back," she said.

Tweet (less)

"Prateik is very spontaneous and humble. He always instructs and supports me whenever I get nervous so this chemistry worked on ramp as well," Kalki told reporters after the show.

Dhaka, whose collection was a blend of modern fashion and traditional applique, gave the two sets of dresses to flaunt on the fashion runway. In the first half, Kalki was seen wearing a fish-cut gown with minimal accessories, while Prateik shed his shy demeanour to flaunt his six-pack abs in a lycra shirt with buttons wide open, and a pair of cotton trousers.

The second half saw Kalki flaunting a flowing off-shoulder gown with an asymmetrical hemline, and Prateik walked in a chiffon, beige-coloured shirt with a pair of printed trousers. Dhaka's collection was a mix of dresses, gowns, trousers in fabrics like silk, chiffons, linen silk, cotton silk and lace.

"The elements of tassle played a major role in my collection and every ensemble will reflect the mood of summer. The colour palatte has a country feel and touch of seventies.

The major shades were taupe, pink browns, dull acid green, ivory and dove grey," said Dhaka, who is "looking forward to some great business." Tweet (less)

August 15 is not the day when I got that independence." So, how does he deal with the concept of freedom while being in any relationship? Says RGV, "I am very clear about certain things in life.

The only reason for me to be in a relationship is to be happy. I am an extremely selfish person.

Relationships are like deals for me. When I am into a relationship, I make it very clear right in the beginning that I love her for myself and because I feel happy that way.

If the girl also feels that way for me, it is her takeaway from that relationship. But I am certainly not concerned about what she takes away from a relationship.

That's completely her call. The moment I don't feel happy being in a relationship, I say it without any inhibition of hurting anyone.

I like this clarity." The film-maker further goes on to say that he completely lives by Ayn Rand's lines: "I live for my own sake and I never ever ask anyone else to live for my sake.

" (less)

Gour Hari Dastaan is based on Gaur's memoirs and is a revealing account of a country squandering its advantages. While Vinay Pathak portrays Gaur, the real Gaur is super-charged about the film getting facts about his interesting life in a proper perspective.

Says the director, "I first broached the subject with the London Film Festival audience when they told me that they would look forward to my next film after Mee Sindhutai Sapkal. The idea of a disillusioned freedom fighter struck a chord and they unanimously 'approved 'of it.

It would also be a rare instance of the British not being lampooned in an Indian film." Gaur who is now 80, is actively involved with the making of his bio-pic.

The film will be based on Gaur's diary recordings. Says Mahadevan, "His first reaction was, 'Why a film on me?' Now after he has seen my seriousness regarding the project he goes around excitedly telling everyone that a film is being based on his life.

He now keeps saying, 'I will live to see the the film.'He has his entire struggle with the government written in what he calls The Freedom File.

These files are the basis for my screenplay." Ranvir Shorey plays Gaur's closest friend.

Ranvir's character is actually an amalgamation of two real-life characters. Divulges Mahadevan, "This friend is actually a neighbour of Gaur Hari.

They still live in the same building. The friend was the guiding force who egged Gaur on to fight the government.

I've taken the character and fused it with a journalist's character." Ranvir is not the least insecure about his best friend and wife playing a couple.

Says the director. "Not at all.

Ranvir and Vinay share an immaculate parternership. They both sublimate their individual egos to be part of one another's films.

If you rememberBheja Fry, Ranvir had done a small part in that film for Vinay's sake. In Gaur Hari Dastaan Ranvir gladly stepped into the friend's part.

" Vinay Pathak was Mahadevan's first and final choice for the part. "I needed an actor who was rooted to the middleclass reality.

And I needed someone who could portray Gaur's 30-year struggle for justice.Vinay has to age from 35 to 65.

" The makeup is being done by Santosh Gayke,the same artiste who aged actress Jyoti Chandekar in the Marathi masterpiece 'Me Sinduhtai Sapkal'. Apparently Ranvir is so charged about his best friend's role of a lifetime that he has been hanging around helping Ananth Mahadevan with the pre-production and with Pathak's preparation for the role.

Explains Mahadevan, "We're all supremely charged about this film.It captures the tumultuous years in a freedom fighter's life, ironically after attaining independence.

Gour Hari Das still resides in Kandivli, Mumbai. He spent five years of his teens fighting the British and then thirty years to obtain a freedom fighter's certificate.

The latter was tougher than the former, he admits. The film holds up a Kafkaesque mirror to a country gone wrong.

" (less)

When asked about Deepika's style, the Kingfisher scion nonchalantly said: "She has not got a bad sense of style either." But Siddharth played it safe when asked to choose the most stylish person of 2011.

"I've always actually said this that Prateik Babbar is pretty stylish. He has got his own sort of quirky sense of style.

So he is pretty cool," he said. Siddharth has reportedly been dating Deepika for a while and the duo has been spotted together on several occasions.

Tweet (less)

This time it is debutante director Rohit Dhawan, son of acclaimed director David Dhawan ,who has directed the production's forthcoming 'dramedy' "Desi Boyz". The multi-starrer follows the story of the corollary of the world being stuck by the financial meltdown, forcing the two protagonists, Akshay Kumar and John Abraham , to resort to something that brings a twist in the tale.

Confirms Krishika Lulla, "The Gen-X lot of actors and directors are immeasurably talented and are well versed with how things function in this business. Our next film is directed by debutante Rohit Dhawan and it's been a pleasure working with someone so talented; someone who understands his audience inspite of being just one film old.

" Says Rohit Dhawan ""Desi Boyz" is one of those big fat Hindi masala films. The kind of cinema that I have grown up watching and a genre that allows me to have all the necessary ingredients that ensure a good entertainer for audiences.

" Starring Akshay Kumar, John Abraham, Deepika Padukone and Chitrangada Singh, "Desi Boyz" comes to a theatre near you on November 25 (less)

Pankaj Kapur is known to be a very hard taskmaster..

. Not with me.

He never raised his voice at me. He knew that I prepared a lot before coming to the sets.

I imbibed a lot from his narrations. But yes, every actor is different and Pankaj Sir dealt with each one of us differently.

Once I met him, I knew that I wouldn't be sidelined in the film even though his son was the hero. And did his son live up to his reputation of being a meddler? I haven't worked with Shahid before Mausam, so I don't know how he behaves otherwise.

But during the filming of Mausam, he was extremely respectful of his father and obeyed him completely. I know there were rumours of Shahid and me not getting along as well.

The truth is, Shahid and I share a very good equation. We are good friends.

Just because I am not having an affair with my hero, doesn't mean I don't get along with him. Let me tell you something about him.

..

Go on..

. He doesn't give a damn about what he wears.

He is too much of a teenager who dresses up like an 18-year-old skateboarder. He can pull off just about anything without raising eyebrows.

But..

.and it's hilarious.

..

he is extremely worried about his hair. But you, on the other hand, are too particular about what you wear.

I don't wear tight dresses that outline my butt. I refuse to get into body hugging tops with spandex simply because it doesn't fit my body type.

I do not believe in cosmetic surgeries either. I think, every single imperfection adds to your beauty.

I'd rather be imperfect than perfect. And yes, I have a certain sense of aesthetics.

Think about it..

. I still look good in both Indian and Western wear.

(And she winks) Maybe not tight clothes, but would you ever sport a bikini? I don't have a body like Deepika Padukone or Bipasha Basu. But if it's a beach scene, I surely can't wear a salwar kameez, right? Speaking about Deepika, why haven't you two resolved your cold war? She is sweet if and when we meet.

However, we haven't met since we made an appearance on Karan Johar's show. We don't have time, I guess.

Also, for two people to be friends, they need to think alike, isn't it? Correct me if I'm wrong..

. but you are not apologetic about your remarks against Ranbir on Karan Johar's show.

No correction required. You are not wrong.

Well, it was Ranbir who started it all by saying 'Sonam is not sexy'. I just shot back and said 'Ranbir is not sexy'.

If a man says it, chalta hai. But when a woman says the same thing, nahi chalta hai? That's sexist! Why should I say 'sorry' to him? Just because his father made a hue and cry about it? If Ranbir apologises to me, I shall too.

So, you don't talk to Ranbir anymore..

. I don't know Ranbir anymore.

He is not my friend now. I did have offers to act opposite him but I turned them down.

And that's simply because I thought that those roles did not suit me. If I get something nice, I'll act with him.

It isn't necessary for me to be friends with all my actors. How do you judge whether a role suits you or not? Depends on my mood.

I am eccentric.(Smiles) Punit Malhotra? What about him? He was my director in I Hate Luv Storys.

You are dating him..

. I shall talk about my personal life if and when I decide to get married.

That day is yet to come (less)

When asked about her character in Desi Boyz , Deepika revealed, "I am an independent girl in real life. I am not dependent on my boyfriend financially unlike my character in Desi Boyz.

" When the actress shifted to her new plush pad in southern Mumbai (Prabhadevi), stories of the 16 Crore (approx) flat being a gift from Sid Mallya were circulated. Deepika had set the record straight eve then about the new flat being bought by herself and not her close friend Siddhartha Mallya as reported.

You go girl (less)

So, when his son, Suddala Ashok Teja, narrated his story to story-writer Vijayendra Prasad (director of Rajanna ), he decided to weave a story inspired by the dynamic poet and make a film. This is the tale behind the inception of the film Rajanna .

Set in the pre-independence era, the film is in the district of Adilabad with Nagarjuna stepping into the shoes of revolutionary poet called 'Rajanna'. "Rajanna is a freedom fighter, who gathers a group of people, to fight for independence.

On India being granted independence, the group members disperse and return home," explains Nagarjuna, continuing, "But, when Rajanna returns home to the Adilabad district, he realises that there is no freedom there -- the existing landlords and Razakars were cruel, and the punishments were barbaric." This is when Rajanna decides to do something about it -- not by fighting battles, but by influencing people around him, by instilling a sense of confidence and a fighting spirit that will not back down.

However this becomes cause for concern for the landlords and Razakars who conspire to eliminate him, and eventually succeed as well. But Rajanna has an unborn child.

So, after killing him, the Zamindars are on a hunt for the mother who escapes and manages to give birth to a baby girl, whose role is being portrayed by Eney. Post this, the movie follows the journey of Rajanna's child who continues her father's legacy.

Nagarjuna however, clarifies that this film is not purely based on real events in history. "My character of Rajanna is influenced by Suddala Hanmanthu.

And the film is mainly influenced by real incidents. So it is partially factual but also partly fictional.

" He further shares, "When the story was narrated to me, the first thing that struck me was how much of our freedom we take for granted; a freedom that was worked for so hard is being abused by all of us." While the film is expected to be very intense, especially in its portrayal of the problems of the people in Telangana, the music of the film itself is very touching and melodious and has been a hit already.

"The music totally brings out the culture of Telangana," opines the 52-year old actor. Talking about his experience during the shoot of the film, Nagarjuna, who also produced the film, recollects, "The experience has been one-of-a-kind.

My primary focus to make sure that people don't look at Rajanna as Nagarjuna. And I think I have managed to succeed in that regard.

" Rajanna , which was supposed to hit the screens on December 23, has been advanced to December 22. Ask him why and the two-time National film awardee promptly responds, "It was purely my confidence that made me advance the release date.

I am positive that the movie will be loved by everyone and that is why I wanted to give it an extra day in the week," he concludes. Rajanna , which is touted to be the actor's biggest film in his 25 years of career, will hit theatres on December 22.

Tweet (less)

The actors were shooting some portions of their film Barfee. And needless to say, despite the bungalow being a rather inconspicuous one, they successfully stalled traffic in the much busy road.

Ileana dressed in a Bengal cotton saree, looked like a pretty Bengali housewife complete with the sankha-pala (red and white bangles) and vermilion in her head. Ranbir, on the other hand looked straight out of a 60's Dev Anand flick with his deerstalker hat and checked shirt.

And if one thought that there were way too many cops around to keep an eye on the shoot, it was only because they were a part of the shoot. The scene was the final part of a chase sequence, where the cops finally catch hold of Ranbir Kapoor who had sought shelter in Ileana's home.

And that was all for the day's shoot. 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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innerHTML = b2 + b1; (less)

R. Rahman and will be directed by K.

S. Ravikumar.

The shooting of the film was delayed as superstar Rajinikanth fell ill on the very first day of the shoot in April. He then took treatment for the kidney ailment in India and Singapore.

Announced earlier this year, Rana is a live action magnum opus with the legendary Rajinikanth playing a triple role in the film. The movie will be released in Tamil, Hindi and Telugu and stars Deepika Padukone and Sonu Sood in prominent roles.

"Great news! Shooting of 'Rana', starring Rajinikanth & Deepika Padukone, to resume. Decision on shooting dates will be taken in Dec," analyst Taran Adarsh tweeted.

Speaking to the press after the resumption of the shooting, Director Mr. K.

S Ravikumar said, "Though Rajinikanth has recovered fully well and is keen to start the shooting, we have delayed the start of the shooting, as we don't want to rush him to start the film shooting immediately, as the film has Rajini playing triple role and has some stunning stunt sequences. Sunil Lulla, MD, Eros International Media Ltd added, "It is a proud project for us and we don't mind waiting to be a part of this ambitious project with Rajinikanth as we want him to rest for some more time.

Hence we have decided to take the decision on the shooting dates in December 2011." Tweet (less)

Journalists from the Bengal media who were in attendance at the press conference pointed out that she had left out Tapan Sinha and other greats from her list of favourites. "I was asked for only one name.

I am getting attacked for giving one name!" said Pinto in mock irritation. Commenting on Mrinal Sen, she said: "I think he was one of the most amazing film makers.

" Bengal was a land which gave India a lot of technical geniuses when it came to film making, she added. Pinto, who became a household name with her portrayal of Latika in Danny Boyle's " Slumdog Millionnaire ", also did not rule out acting in Bengali films.

"Let's wait and watch," she said (less)

"Prateik is very spontaneous and humble. He always instructs and supports me whenever I get nervous so this chemistry worked on ramp as well," Kalki told reporters after the show.

Dhaka, whose collection was a blend of modern fashion and traditional applique, gave the two sets of dresses to flaunt on the fashion runway. In the first half, Kalki was seen wearing a fish-cut gown with minimal accessories, while Prateik shed his shy demeanour to flaunt his six-pack abs in a lycra shirt with buttons wide open, and a pair of cotton trousers.

The second half saw Kalki flaunting a flowing off-shoulder gown with an asymmetrical hemline, and Prateik walked in a chiffon, beige-coloured shirt with a pair of printed trousers. Dhaka's collection was a mix of dresses, gowns, trousers in fabrics like silk, chiffons, linen silk, cotton silk and lace.

"The elements of tassle played a major role in my collection and every ensemble will reflect the mood of summer. The colour palatte has a country feel and touch of seventies.

The major shades were taupe, pink browns, dull acid green, ivory and dove grey," said Dhaka, who is "looking forward to some great business." Tweet (less)

"Maybe now that I have joined the team, it will change. I am full on to wear a bikini.

I am dieting, I am working out, I am fit..

. bikini dena hai toh de do," the spunky actress laughs uproariously.

She will be seen opposite Shreyas Talpade in the multi-starrer. Shazahn made her debut with Ranbir Kapoor in Rocket Singh: Salesman of the Year in 2009 and then she was seen in Madhur Bhandarkar's Dil Toh Baccha Hai Ji released early this year.

"I was lucky to work with Ranbir in my first film. Then I started getting lot of offers after Dil To Bachcha Hai Ji and now I am very happy to get to work in Housefull as it will help me expand my canvas.

At present, I would like to do just commercial, mainstream cinema," says Shazahn. On October 19 Shazahn celebrated her birthday by cutting a cake with the entire cast.

She says, "I was drawn to Hindi movies very early in life. I am very comfortable working with the Bollywood guys, I feel like one of them.

I don't want to sign random movies. I do consult my dad (ad guru Alyque Padamsee), but the final decision is mine," says Shazahn (less)

Writer Hameed Chennamangalur, from whose ancestral family house Rahman Sahib had his last dinner and later collapsed at a nearby market, said the insinuation in the film that his food was poisoned "not only distorts history but defames my ancestors." Abdul Rahman Sahib died in 1945 at the age of 47 was one of the key leaders of the Congress and Khilafat movement in Malabar in the fight against British rule.

Asked about the row, director Kunhu told PTI that he had not tried to distort history in the movie. "History is not a monopoly of anyone and there can be different interpretations.

I have conducted an investigation in my own style by eliciting views of eminent historians and the local people," he said. Hameed said such 'fake historical biopics' would mislead future generations and wanted the film to be withdrawn from theatres.

He was also planning to move court against the director. He said it was cruel to portray a natural death as murder.

The doctor who treated Rahman Sahib had clearly mentioned that he died of heart attack. This fact was also there in the biography of Sahib written jointly by his compatriots," he said.

Indian Union Muslim League MLA K N A Khader also said it was historically incorrect to say that Rahman Sahib was murdered. The suggestion in the movie that Muslim League in pre-independence days had favoured the 'two-nation' theory was also factually wrong, he said.

Rahman Sahib was strongly opposed to the two-nation theory. According to historian M G S Narayanan, there were widespread rumours in those days that Rahman Sahib was poisoned.

The period he lived was an era of conflict and nothing could be ruled out, he said. Kunhu Mohammed said he had only taken the liberty of a director.

"A film-maker can view history only in a cinematic way. Controversies on approach to historical facts are nothing new.

I have made the film based on a novel on Rahman Sahib's life by writer N P Mohammed and there can be a fictional element in it," he said. The director said a legal notice would be sent to Hameed Chennamangalur if he did not stop the 'false campaign' against the movie.

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The National Award winning Chanda has also directed a film titled "Ekti Nodir Golpo" starring Mithun Chakraborty. Goutam Ghose, with whom Chanda worked in "Yatra", was shocked with the news.

"I have just heard the news and am extremely disturbed. This week has been really bad.

First, I heard about Tareque Masud's death. Now, it's Samir.

I can't deal with so many news of death of my close ones." Bedabrata Pain, the director of "Chittagong", says, "I was very close to Samirda.

He believed in me and "Chittagong" and practically worked for free. He really made the film happen.

I just spoke to him the day before and now he is gone." Meanwhile, micro blogging sites have also seen many celebrities paying their tribute to Chanda.

Writes Priyanka Chopra: "RIP Samir Chanda. Had the good fortune of knowing the incredible man he was in Kaminey and Saat khoon maaf.

Thank u for always believing in me. This is a complete shock.

. there is a song.

..

"only the good die young" by Billy Joel ..

U will always be remembered." (sic) Actor Siddharth writes: "Art director Samir chanda passed away this evening.

Wonderful creator, beautiful human being. Gone too soon.

Rest in peace dada. Miss you.

" Director Shirish Kunder, on his part, writes: "RIP Samir Chanda. Was working with him on JOKER.

We just met last evening to discuss designs for next schedule. Am shocked!" Writes director Anant Mahadevan, "Actor Shammi Kapoor , Art director Samir Chanda, composer Johnson, all left within a week.

..

dark phase for the show world." (less)

She was admitted in hospital on December 3 following a pneumonia attack. She was discharged on December 13 and taken home, but re-admitted two hours later, after she suffered convulsions on the left side of her body.

She was put on a ventilator and was in the intensive care unit (ICU) for 15 days. Kalpana's daughter Preeti Mansukhani and son-in-law Harish were at her side through the ordeal.

Her final rites were performed at the Vaikunth crematorium amidst family and close friends. Harish said that the family had kept Kalpana's death under wraps.

"We didn't want to talk about her death as we knew that many people had their eye on her property," Harish said. Kalpana was in the news recently when she filed a complaint at the Khadak Police Station in Pune, claiming that three people had forged her signature to make a fake memorandum of understanding (MoU), and then sold the 56.

18 hectare plot she owned in Mauje Visagar village to Sahara City builders in 2007. Harish said that Kalpana had been anxious and tense ever since, and the episode had left her very weak.

"However, now we know that the police have arrested those she complained against, and the matter is sub-judice," added Harish. Remembering Kalpana as a spirited, straight-spoken person, Harish said, "I remember when Preeti and I had just started dating.

She came to my house and asked me what my intentions were - if I was going to marry her daughter. She was always very protective of Preeti.

" Preeti remembers her mother fondly. 'She was always so brave.

She raised me alone and made sure I got the best education possible. She was a self-made woman and was proud of it.

" Kalpana had a brief but successful stint in Bollywood in the 60s and 70s, starring with actors like Dev Anand and Shammi Kapoor, but stopped after she got married. Later, she moved to Kalyani Nagar, in the eastern region on Pune, and spent her remaining years there.

Knowing Kalpana Kalpana Mohan was born in Srinagar on July 18, 1946. Her father, Avani Mohan, a freedom fighter, was close to Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and an active member of the All India Congress Committee.

Kalpana, who trained in Kathak, was often invited by Nehru to dance at the Rashtrapati Bhavan whenever dignitaries visited. She was spotted by actor Balraj Sahani and Urdu writer Ismat Chughtai, who encouraged her to come to Mumbai.

Kalpana got her first break in the movie Professor in 1962. In 1967, she married a navy officer, but divorced him in 1972.

She continued to live in Mumbai for a while but stopped acting, allegedly, depressed over the divorce. Kalpana moved to Pune about 20 years ago when her health started deteriorating as doctors prescribed a change of climate (less)

VB has sported the look for years. While Dippy looks pretty, we're giving the 'Saree Queen' crown to the Parineeta girl.

She gets points for being original! Has to be said though, that Balan can't rock a short dress like Dippy can (less)

In fact, the schedules have been rearranged and her original remuneration has been substantially enhanced to get the actress back in the project, claim sources. A source told Mumbai Mirror, "Deepika felt that her pairing with Saif needs a break after Love Aaj Kal, Aarakshan and Homi Adjania's film (tentatively titled Cocktail).

When the dates for Race 2 and Ayan's film clashed, she opted for the latter." The Race 2 producers, the Taurani's were however, adamant on getting Deepika back on the project, revealed the source.

In fact, they were willing to adjust the dates and comply with all her requirements to ensure that she stays with the film. "Rumours about Priyanka Chopra replacing Deepika hasn't gone down too well with the Tauranis.

They sat down with Deepika and sorted out all the problems. They even agreed to enhance her remuneration," added the source.

Ramesh Taurani admitted that there were problems regarding Deepika's dates, which have been sorted out. "Deepika is very much a part of Race 2," said the filmmaker.

The date adjustment for Deepika seems to have shattered Sonakshi Sinha's dream to shed her village belle avatar, which has stuck with her since her debut with Dabangg, and don the glam doll look for Abbas Mustan's Race 2. Due to date problems, Shatrughan Sinha's little daughter has had to opt out of the action thriller.

Not so long ago, Sonakshi, happy with her role in Race 2 had said, "I believe as an actress one must do different roles. I wanted to change my image from a traditional girl to a glamorous one.

So I signed Race 2." However, the actress has now opted out of the project due to date issues.

According to sources, Race had been pushed to June for Deepika and since Dabangg 2 starts in March 2012, Sonakshi had to choose between an image makeover and Salman Khan. Needless to say, the young actress chose the man who helped her become an overnight star with her debut film than a new glam doll avatar.

Sonakshi's manager confirmed that Sonakshi is indeed opted out of the Abbas Mustan project and revealed, "The dates of the film have been pushed to June. Deepika has allotted her dates accordingly.

This clashes with Sonakshi's important schedule for Dabangg 2. She cannot change her dates now according to the requirement of Race 2.

" When contacted, Ramesh Taurani, producer of Race 2, said, "Yes, Sonakshi has date issues. She has spoken to us about the same.

I am trying to sort it out, but I can't say anything more at this moment." A friend of Sonakshi added, "Surely, Salman Khan's film is more important to Sonakshi.

She flagged off her career with Dabangg. She definitely can't ditch the sequel.

In fact it is one of the most awaited projects of 2012." Dippy goes missing After walking the ramp for designer Wendell Rodericks at a fashion event in Delhi last week, Deepika Padukone did a disappearing act scaring everybody in her team.

Unreachable over the phone for 24 hours, it was later found out that Deepika had escaped to her favourite place, the Taj Mahal and switched her cellphone off. A source informed, "Deepika is normally very responsible.

She always informs her office about her whereabouts. But last week she did the unthinkable.

" "The day after she walked the ramp for Wendell Rodericks, she got up finished all her work and asked her staff to leave. No one knows what happened next.

Except for that Deepika went missing. In fact, she was untraceable for the next 24 hours," added the source "Her team was really worried.

They were frantically looking for her. They even thought of calling her parents up.

Luckily, she called up just in time to inform hat she was safe," told the source. Dippy it seems had escaped to Agra.

"Deepika loves the Taj. She visits Agra frequently.

She always plans a trip to the Taj when she is in Delhi or anywhere close to Agra. But this time she hadn't planned on visiting the place.

So when she disappeared all of a sudden, her team got really worried," added the source. -KMS 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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Writer Hameed Chennamangalur, from whose ancestral family house Rahman Sahib had his last dinner and later collapsed at a nearby market, said the insinuation in the film that his food was poisoned "not only distorts history but defames my ancestors." Abdul Rahman Sahib died in 1945 at the age of 47 was one of the key leaders of the Congress and Khilafat movement in Malabar in the fight against British rule.

Asked about the row, director Kunhu told PTI that he had not tried to distort history in the movie. "History is not a monopoly of anyone and there can be different interpretations.

I have conducted an investigation in my own style by eliciting views of eminent historians and the local people," he said. Hameed said such 'fake historical biopics' would mislead future generations and wanted the film to be withdrawn from theatres.

He was also planning to move court against the director. He said it was cruel to portray a natural death as murder.

The doctor who treated Rahman Sahib had clearly mentioned that he died of heart attack. This fact was also there in the biography of Sahib written jointly by his compatriots," he said.

Indian Union Muslim League MLA K N A Khader also said it was historically incorrect to say that Rahman Sahib was murdered. The suggestion in the movie that Muslim League in pre-independence days had favoured the 'two-nation' theory was also factually wrong, he said.

Rahman Sahib was strongly opposed to the two-nation theory. According to historian M G S Narayanan, there were widespread rumours in those days that Rahman Sahib was poisoned.

The period he lived was an era of conflict and nothing could be ruled out, he said. Kunhu Mohammed said he had only taken the liberty of a director.

"A film-maker can view history only in a cinematic way. Controversies on approach to historical facts are nothing new.

I have made the film based on a novel on Rahman Sahib's life by writer N P Mohammed and there can be a fictional element in it," he said. The director said a legal notice would be sent to Hameed Chennamangalur if he did not stop the 'false campaign' against the movie.

Tweet (less)

And Hema and Jeetuji (as he is lovingly called in the film industry) seem happy to be together again. Hema managed to look magnificent even in a simple printed cotton sari.

Jeetendra too, in an image far from his all white Jumping Jack avatar, looks like the village doctor he plays in the film based on Sarat Chandra Chatterjee's novel Panditmashai. Wearing a khadi kurta and thick-framed glasses, the actor seems to be having a good time with director Gulzar.

One may recall, co-stars Hema and Jeetendra did not just share a good chemistry off the screen, but they had even decided to get married. But Dharmendra put an end to their idyllic romance by busting their wedding with Jeetendra's fiancee Shobhaa in tow (less)

Vidya repeats the saree which Aishwarya Rai had worn years ago. Sphere: Related Content Posted in (less)

Take a look Asha Parekh in Dil Deke Dekho : The film gave Asha Parekh an instant image as the go-go girl. She went on to star in a number of jubilee hits and always said Shammi K was lucky for her.

Saira Banu in Junglee : The kamsin, frail, nazuk, nakhrewali heroine made her debut with Shammi Kapoor who was a huge star by the time he got to this one. Yet look at the man's generosity.

He didn't allow her to be overshadowed. If he had songs like Ehsaan tera hoga mujhpar and Chahe koi mujhe jungle kahe ,she had Kashmir ki kali hoon main and the female version of the tandem Ehsaan tera hog mujhpar .

Sharmila Tagore in Kashmir Ki Kali : The Bengali beauty with crater-like dimples got her first break in Hindi with the Yahoo star. Shammi wooed Sharmila in style with numbers like Yeh duniya ussi ki zamana ussika mohabbat mein jo ho gaya ho kissika and Isharon isharon mein.

Kalpana in Professor : This was the only Shammi Kapoor debutante who went wrong. Shammi Kapoor gave Kalpana all the right moves .

But she messed it up. One heard of Kalpana going into a life of disrepute.

Sad (less)

Shah Rukh, who opened the festival at the Netaji Indoor Stadium alongside yesteryears actress Sharmila Tagore, began his speech by addressing Banerjee as "didi" (elder sister). The chief minister returned the gesture by calling Shah Rukh "brother".

But prior to that, while mounting the dais, the two stood at the aisle gesturing to one another to lead the way. Banerjee, in her trademark cotton saree, was the first to reach the aisle, but stopped for Shah Rukh, who was on the way.

The Bollywood celebrity, wearing a dark suit and sporting a ponytail , rushed in, came close to Banerjee and then requested her to climb the podium first. But Banerjee seemed more eager to give him the right of way.

The actor reciprocated by moving his hand and pleading with the leader to ascend the dais first. But Banerjee, known for his bargaining skills, finally won.

Shah Rukh climbed the dais before Banerjee. Sitting on the dais, the two talked animatedly.

When the ceremonial lamp was being lit, it was Shah Rukh who gave a candle to Banerjee, who handed it back to him for doing the honours. The ceremony over, Banerjee and Shah Rukh held a meeting, where the chief minister reportedly asked King Khan to be the brand ambassador for Bengal.

Shah Rukh, on his part, said he would be available whenever Banerjee called him (less)

So, when his son, Suddala Ashok Teja, narrated his story to story-writer Vijayendra Prasad (director of Rajanna ), he decided to weave a story inspired by the dynamic poet and make a film. This is the tale behind the inception of the film Rajanna .

Set in the pre-independence era, the film is in the district of Adilabad with Nagarjuna stepping into the shoes of revolutionary poet called 'Rajanna'. "Rajanna is a freedom fighter, who gathers a group of people, to fight for independence.

On India being granted independence, the group members disperse and return home," explains Nagarjuna, continuing, "But, when Rajanna returns home to the Adilabad district, he realises that there is no freedom there -- the existing landlords and Razakars were cruel, and the punishments were barbaric." This is when Rajanna decides to do something about it -- not by fighting battles, but by influencing people around him, by instilling a sense of confidence and a fighting spirit that will not back down.

However this becomes cause for concern for the landlords and Razakars who conspire to eliminate him, and eventually succeed as well. But Rajanna has an unborn child.

So, after killing him, the Zamindars are on a hunt for the mother who escapes and manages to give birth to a baby girl, whose role is being portrayed by Eney. Post this, the movie follows the journey of Rajanna's child who continues her father's legacy.

Nagarjuna however, clarifies that this film is not purely based on real events in history. "My character of Rajanna is influenced by Suddala Hanmanthu.

And the film is mainly influenced by real incidents. So it is partially factual but also partly fictional.

" He further shares, "When the story was narrated to me, the first thing that struck me was how much of our freedom we take for granted; a freedom that was worked for so hard is being abused by all of us." While the film is expected to be very intense, especially in its portrayal of the problems of the people in Telangana, the music of the film itself is very touching and melodious and has been a hit already.

"The music totally brings out the culture of Telangana," opines the 52-year old actor. Talking about his experience during the shoot of the film, Nagarjuna, who also produced the film, recollects, "The experience has been one-of-a-kind.

My primary focus to make sure that people don't look at Rajanna as Nagarjuna. And I think I have managed to succeed in that regard.

" Rajanna , which was supposed to hit the screens on December 23, has been advanced to December 22. Ask him why and the two-time National film awardee promptly responds, "It was purely my confidence that made me advance the release date.

I am positive that the movie will be loved by everyone and that is why I wanted to give it an extra day in the week," he concludes. Rajanna , which is touted to be the actor's biggest film in his 25 years of career, will hit theatres on December 22.

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R. Rahman and will be directed by K.

S. Ravikumar.

The shooting of the film was delayed as superstar Rajinikanth fell ill on the very first day of the shoot in April. He then took treatment for the kidney ailment in India and Singapore.

Announced earlier this year, Rana is a live action magnum opus with the legendary Rajinikanth playing a triple role in the film. The movie will be released in Tamil, Hindi and Telugu and stars Deepika Padukone and Sonu Sood in prominent roles.

"Great news! Shooting of 'Rana', starring Rajinikanth & Deepika Padukone, to resume. Decision on shooting dates will be taken in Dec," analyst Taran Adarsh tweeted.

Speaking to the press after the resumption of the shooting, Director Mr. K.

S Ravikumar said, "Though Rajinikanth has recovered fully well and is keen to start the shooting, we have delayed the start of the shooting, as we don't want to rush him to start the film shooting immediately, as the film has Rajini playing triple role and has some stunning stunt sequences. Sunil Lulla, MD, Eros International Media Ltd added, "It is a proud project for us and we don't mind waiting to be a part of this ambitious project with Rajinikanth as we want him to rest for some more time.

Hence we have decided to take the decision on the shooting dates in December 2011." Tweet (less)

Oomph is wow! The lady, who has already given an inkling of the things to come in her sweltering item number Umrao Jaan of Damadamm, says without any inhibition: "Till date I have played the good gal in films like Aashayein, Jaane Kahan Se aayi Hai and Radio. But, I am loving my sexy avatar in Damadamm now.

I play the other woman, who completely floors Himesh with her chilled-out viewpoint and oomph quotient, and is in sharp contrast with his seedhi-saadhi wife. I know I look sizzling hot in the movie and I am sure audience will love this makeover of mine!" Stork can wait! When she is all ready to sizzle, ask her when is the stork visiting, and Sonal says with a throaty chuckle: "My husband Naresh Kamath is very busy as the bass guitarist of Kailash Kher's band, and I am also enjoying my stint in Bollywood.

So, stork will have to wait for a while. Later, we definitely have plans to welcome a baby in our world!" (less)

Young director Srijit Mukherji got rave reviews and set the box-office on fire with his second film 22nd Srabon , which means the 22nd day of the Bengali month Srabon . Director Goutam Ghosh changed hats for the film and delivered an electrifying performance as an eccentric poet in the thriller starring Prosenjit Chatterjee and Raima Sen.

Debutante Kamaleshwar Mukherjee's Uro Chithi , a contemporary love story on how old SMSes can unfold new tales, surprised everybody with a superb box-office report. Anindo Bandopadhyay's Chaplin , debutante Shibaprasad Mukherjee and Nandita Roy directed Ichche and Haranath Chakraborty's Chalo Paltai were among the other films that led the trend of "middle of the road" cinema which is commercially viable but with off-beat stories.

With a new state government at the helm, most of the who's who of Tollywood, including Bengal's reigning superstar Prosenjit Chatterjee and director Rituporno Ghosh, were seen rubbing shoulders with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Four MLAs and two MPs in her party hail from the film industry.

Besides plans to renovate the heritage Technicians Studio in Tollygunje, the state government also announced establishing an ambitious Film City on a plot along the river Ganges in Hooghly district, few kms away from Kolkata. Bollywood showman Subhash Ghai too showed interest in Bengali cinema and produced Rituporno Ghosh's Noukadubi , an adaptation of Rabindranath Tagore's novel.

Aparna Sen's Iti Mrinalini , featuring her and daughter Konkona as an actress now past her prime, fared well at the box-office and won accolades at a number of international film festivals like Cairo, Dubai and New York. Buddhadeb Dasgupta's Janala too travelled the film festival circuits and even won the best feature film award at the prestigious Asia Pacific Film Festival held in Taipei.

Paris-based Srilankan director Vimukthi Jayasundara went to Cannes with Bengali film Chhatrak as actress Paoli Dam made the industry proud by walking the red carpet. In the 58th National Film Awards Goutam Ghosh's superhit Moner Manush (The Quest), which is based on the real life of a 19th century mystic poet, won two trophies including the Nargis Dutt award for best feature film on national integration.

The best English film award went to Memories in March , which was scripted by maverick director Rituparno Ghosh, who also played the lead role of a homosexual. Young director Kaushik Mukherjee's bold documentary Love in India won the National Award for the best film on family values.

His another critically-acclaimed and controversial film failed to get a theatrical release in India due to its sexually explicit content but was premiered at the famed Berlin Film Festival. The legendary New Theaters Studio, which had given Indian cinema its icons like Prithviraj Kapoor and Bimal Roy, was revived with the innocent love story Ami Adu (I am Aadu).

Besides bagging the National award for best Bengali feature film, Ami Adu won the silver award for best film in SAARC Film Festival. Anjan Dutt's rock musical Ranjana Aami Aar Ashbona pleased both the critics and the audiences.

Few run-of-the-mill movies like Tollywood superstar Dev's Paglu and Romeo , Jeet's Fighter and Shatru , Aniket Chattopadhyay's Bye Bye Bangkok , also attracted the masses. "The trends clearly reflect the change in tastes of both the audiences and the filmmakers.

But the number of poor films far exceed the good ones," veteran film critic Shoma A Chatterji told PTI. With more than a hundred releases this year, only a handful of films can be counted upon.

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But then she vanished from the big screen for three years and returned with director Onir's film Sorry Bhai in 2008 followed by Mishra's another film Yeh Saali Zindagi this year. "What is different about commercial films is there are so many changes like there is so much of make-up, different hair styles, slow motion shots etc.

The exciting part was you glam-up for a role, you dance, you have those fantastic clothes, high heels and that whole girly thing," Chitrangada told PTI in an interview. "In the end a girl is a girl, we all love these things.

I had a great time doing all this," she said. Chitrangada is officially foraying into commercial cinema with Rohit Dhawan's Desi Boyz opposite Akshay Kumar.

"I don't think it is like a plan that I would do now do commercial films. I enjoy it and I hope I can carry it forward.

It's a good shift. Like I did off beat films for some time and now I will to do this for some time, she said.

Ask her about promotional strategies for both kind of cinema, Chitrangada, feels, commercial cinema brings in more recognition and connects with a larger audience. "Promotions are stronger for commercial films.

The numbers, the budget is high for marketing, there is a proper team. When there is a niche film you do it on that level.

It is a great and different experience," she said. Citing an example, Chitrangada said, "Like during one of our promotional tours, the kind of response that Akshay and John got was insane, incredible.

I was like surprised, got cold feet..

thousands of people jammed in a mall." Contrary to what you expect of Chitrangada, considering her on-screen image, she dons a glamorous look in yet-to-be released film Desi Boyz .

She has recreated the sexy and stylish college professor look for the movie. Since her character required her to look edgy, smart, stylish and yet mature, her stylist gave her fringes for her hairdo.

"I play Tanya Sharma, a professor at the Oxford University. Akshay's character Jerry and Tanya have a past.

When Tanya was a student, Jerry was her senior and she had a huge crush on him. He comes back to complete his studies while Tanya has rejoined the college as a professor.

Whenever Jerry is around, everything goes into slow motion," Chitrangada said. Desi Boyz , also starring John Abraham and Deepika Padukone, releases on November 25.

Now that she has ventured into commercial cinema, the actress would continue doing parallel cinema. "In terms of offbeat cinema if something exciting comes my way, which is challenging and a good role, with a good director like say Vishal Bhardwaj or somebody, I would love to do that again and go right back," she said.

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Here's what they have to say: Bipasha Basu : Proud to be an Indian independent girl. Happy Independence Day! Let's all value d efforts of all the brave people who fought for our Independence! Jai Hind! Shahid Kapoor : Respect to all armed forces .

..

We feel the independence due to them!!! Anupam Kher : My country gives me enough reasons to be a proud Indian even when I am disheartened at times. I love INDIA.

Happy Independence Day. Shekhar Kapur : Independence day is to reflect on those to whom freedom has not brought freedom from hunger, destitution, degradation, Independence Day is a day of humility for all that we have not been able to achieve for our people.

Divya Dutta : A very happy Independence day all!! I love my India! Zayed Khan : Freedom is a privilege! One must remember the many sacrifices our forefathers have made and fought for before we can begin to fathom the several advantages we have today. Freedom means the ability to dream , to do , and to excel in whatever it is that we choose.

Freedom enacted responsibly, is freedom earned! Karan Johar : Respect your independence first then celebrate it..

.protect your nation first then love it.

..

JAI HIND!!! Riteish Deshmukh : Happy Independence Day. So proud to be an Indian - together we celebrate our unity -- Indianess is the only religion we follow- JAI HIND BORN INDIAN - WILL LIVE INDIAN - WILL DIE INDIAN.

Tusshar Kapoor : Happy Independence Day to Indians around the world. Let's make an attempt to think freely, an independence that would enrich our lives!! Kalki Koechlin : Let's be free from corrupt systems in our working lives and corrupt systems in our governing forces.

Have a thoughtful Independence Day. Genelia D'Souza : Happy Independence Day.

..

so proud to be an India and so proud that INDIA is my motherland. I LOVE MY INDIA! Uday Chopra : Independence Day! Thanks to all those who fought for it and gave their lives so that we could hold our heads up and proudly say we are Indian! Sonam Kapoor : Happy Independence Day.

The best thing about me is that I'm an Indian. My country is the strongest, wisest and the most peaceful! Shruti Seth : May we all be free of corruption, religious and societal prejudices, fear, terror and petty judgement.

Happy Independence day. Free your mind! Neha Dhupia : Let's all keep freedom alive .

..

Happy Independence Day. Dia Mirza : Happy Independence Day! Know your duties and rights and respect them.

Be free! Jai Hind Kunal Kohli : If you love your country, keep your roads clean, pay your taxes, don't complain do something, vote, no corrupt shortcuts, be positive. Jai Hind! Minissha Lamba : Freedom is something we are born with.

We don't know what it was like to live under foreign rule. What we do need to learn is accountability as a sovereign nation.

Happy Independence Day. Tweet (less)

You brought honour to our India and glory to being an 'I AM She' winner!! I salute you!! Congratulations," Sushmita posted on micro-blogging site Twitter. Sushmita has acquired rights to choosing India's official entry for the Miss Universe , Miss Asia Pacific World and Miss Globe International pageants through her I AM She.

Parul, a fashion designer by profession, not only achieved the second position in the beauty pageant but also won the best costume award and Sushmita congratulated designer Neeta Lulla for that. "Last night, Parul Duggal of India won first runners up at 'Miss Globe International' in Cyprus! Also, winning the Best National costume.

A big congratulations to designer Neeta Lulla for designing the National costume that Parul Duggal won in! We love you Neeta. Thank you," she wrote.

Earlier this year, India's Tanvi Singla, another I AM She winner, entered the top five at the Miss Asia Pacific World pageant held in Busan. "Thank you guys for all your messages.

..

yes,I am happy..

. the tide is turning.

..

this year alone, two winners of 'I AM She' have won international titles," she posted. "We began 'I AM She' with a goal to bring victory back to India.

..

and in our 2nd year itself..

. we now have two victories!! Your support rocks," she further added (less)

Initially, there were reports that it was filmmaker Ashutosh Gowarikar's film 'Khelen Hum Jee Jaan Se' starring Abhishek Bachchan that was causing a hurdle in the release of 'Chittagong' since the two films are based on same subject. "Anurag is a good friend.

He liked the film a lot and told me about it. We are jointly presenting the film and we will try and ensure that the film has a wide release like any other commercial film," Bohra said in a statement.

'Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey', a period film directed by Ashutosh Gowariker, starring Abhishek and Deepika Padukone in the lead roles, was based on the Chittagong Uprising of 1930. The film which was released last December, was a box office failure.

Directed by Bedabrata Pain, Chittagong starring Manoj Bajpai in the lead, is scheduled to release early next year. The film is set against the backdrop of a little known saga in 1930s British-occupied India - where a group of schoolboys and young women, led by a teacher, Masterda Surya Sen, played by Bajpai dared to take on the British Empire.

"The delay was a blessing in disguise as it gave us some more time to do the patch work better. I am honoured that filmmakers such as Anurag Kashyap, Vishal Bharadwaj, Rakeysh Mehra, Ketan Mehta and others have loved the film.

I am thrilled that the film is getting released now," Pain said. Tweet (less)

Aami Ek Jajabar , Bistirna Dupare , Ganga amar Ma , Manush manusher Jonyo , Ek khana Megh bhese elo Akashe , He dola, He dola , Sagar Sangame , Sahasra Jone More are among a few of the many songs which have evergreen appeal. The soulful lyrics in Hazarika's unique powerful voice speaking of people, nature and love, were lapped up by all generations and for long his songs played over gramophone discs and cassettes formed an integral part of political meetings.

His song on Bangladesh war of independence Joi Joi Nabajato Bangladesh also moved people. Another legendary signer, Manna Dey, said he always felt great rendering music under Hazarika's direction.

"I told him so many times that there was something in his songs which gave me a different kind of feeling while singing his songs under his direction". Eminent signer Hiamanti Shukla, who trained under Hazarika while lending voice to films songs in both Bengali and Assamese, said: "It is one of the saddest day of my life.

Such a musician comes rarely. I have leartn a lot form him.

He was a stickler for perfect pronunciation". Singer Manmoy Bhattacahrya said "It is an irreparable loss to the world of music".

Hazarika also directed music in Bengali films, such as Jiban Trishna , Jonakir Alo , Mahut Bandhure , Kari o Komal , Asamapta , Ekhane Pinjar , Dampati and Chameli Memsaab . A multi-faceted genius, Hazarika produced and directed a half-hour documentary for Calcutta Doordarshan Kendra in 1977 on the folk songs and dances of north east India entitled Through Melody and Rhythm .

He also won several awards in West Bengal for film music direction, and for his contribution to art and culture. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and her predecessor Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee paid glowing tributes to Hazarika while condoling his death.

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Producer Krishika Lulla confirms, "You can't help but notice how great the lead girls are looking. Deepika is smouldering as ever and Chitrangda has undergone a glamorous makeover for the film.

" Starring Akshay Kumar , John Abraham , Deepika Padukone and Chitrangada Singh, Desi Boyz comes to a theatre near you on November 25 (less)

Young director Srijit Mukherji got rave reviews and set the box-office on fire with his second film 22nd Srabon , which means the 22nd day of the Bengali month Srabon . Director Goutam Ghosh changed hats for the film and delivered an electrifying performance as an eccentric poet in the thriller starring Prosenjit Chatterjee and Raima Sen.

Debutante Kamaleshwar Mukherjee's Uro Chithi , a contemporary love story on how old SMSes can unfold new tales, surprised everybody with a superb box-office report. Anindo Bandopadhyay's Chaplin , debutante Shibaprasad Mukherjee and Nandita Roy directed Ichche and Haranath Chakraborty's Chalo Paltai were among the other films that led the trend of "middle of the road" cinema which is commercially viable but with off-beat stories.

With a new state government at the helm, most of the who's who of Tollywood, including Bengal's reigning superstar Prosenjit Chatterjee and director Rituporno Ghosh, were seen rubbing shoulders with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Four MLAs and two MPs in her party hail from the film industry.

Besides plans to renovate the heritage Technicians Studio in Tollygunje, the state government also announced establishing an ambitious Film City on a plot along the river Ganges in Hooghly district, few kms away from Kolkata. Bollywood showman Subhash Ghai too showed interest in Bengali cinema and produced Rituporno Ghosh's Noukadubi , an adaptation of Rabindranath Tagore's novel.

Aparna Sen's Iti Mrinalini , featuring her and daughter Konkona as an actress now past her prime, fared well at the box-office and won accolades at a number of international film festivals like Cairo, Dubai and New York. Buddhadeb Dasgupta's Janala too travelled the film festival circuits and even won the best feature film award at the prestigious Asia Pacific Film Festival held in Taipei.

Paris-based Srilankan director Vimukthi Jayasundara went to Cannes with Bengali film Chhatrak as actress Paoli Dam made the industry proud by walking the red carpet. In the 58th National Film Awards Goutam Ghosh's superhit Moner Manush (The Quest), which is based on the real life of a 19th century mystic poet, won two trophies including the Nargis Dutt award for best feature film on national integration.

The best English film award went to Memories in March , which was scripted by maverick director Rituparno Ghosh, who also played the lead role of a homosexual. Young director Kaushik Mukherjee's bold documentary Love in India won the National Award for the best film on family values.

His another critically-acclaimed and controversial film failed to get a theatrical release in India due to its sexually explicit content but was premiered at the famed Berlin Film Festival. The legendary New Theaters Studio, which had given Indian cinema its icons like Prithviraj Kapoor and Bimal Roy, was revived with the innocent love story Ami Adu (I am Aadu).

Besides bagging the National award for best Bengali feature film, Ami Adu won the silver award for best film in SAARC Film Festival. Anjan Dutt's rock musical Ranjana Aami Aar Ashbona pleased both the critics and the audiences.

Few run-of-the-mill movies like Tollywood superstar Dev's Paglu and Romeo , Jeet's Fighter and Shatru , Aniket Chattopadhyay's Bye Bye Bangkok , also attracted the masses. "The trends clearly reflect the change in tastes of both the audiences and the filmmakers.

But the number of poor films far exceed the good ones," veteran film critic Shoma A Chatterji told PTI. With more than a hundred releases this year, only a handful of films can be counted upon.

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