Ram Gopal Varma has finally announced that he will be making a film on the 26/11 terror attacks in Mumbai. The film is tentatively titled '26/11'.

Says the maverick filmmaker, "26/11 is a date no Indian will ever forget. The three-day live telecast of the terrorist carnage had people's eyes glued to the television sets across world".

Three years back, RGV's walk through the half-burnt Taj hotel accompanied by the then chief minister Vilasrao Deshmukh and his actor son Riteish Deshmukh had led to speculations that he might be going to make a film on the attacks then. But Varma had denied he was invited by Deshmukh and his son to visit Taj so that he could see the devastation first hand and portray it realistically in a movie.

"I only got the idea now. I have enough knowledge and understanding of the events now.

Also, at that point the allegations were about Riteish being a part of this project, which he is not," says Varma. He adds, "Everyone more or less has seen or heard of what happened during that time.

But my attempt now would be not only to capture the physical aspect but also behind the scenes aspects of what exactly happened from the time Kasab and rest of the team landed on Amar Singh Solanki's trawler in the high seas, till Kasab's heroic capture by the late Tukaram Ombale at Girgaum Chowpatty. This will be inter-cut with what the various gallant police officers did in their attempt to get the situation under control.

" Varma is being assisted by Rommel Rodrigues, author of 'Kasab the face of 26/11', who has an extensive and encyclopedic knowledge of the event but the film will not be based on the book. The film would be made for both national and international audiences.

It will have completely new cast to create a heightened sense of reality. "After my tryst with so called the underworld films, I would consider this film as a greatest challenge of my career", concludes Ramu (less)

Says a source, "Mugdha and Madhur may have appeared to be cordial and even posed for snapshots on the red carpet. But when it was time for both of them to go up on the stage, Mugdha refused to share the space with him.

As a result, director Ken Ghosh was roped in to present the award along with her." The awards event was organised by a channel at the Yash Raj Studios.

Adds the source, "Mugdha's sudden change of mind shocked the organisers. However, she did not mind going up on the stage with anyone else.

" Though Madhur had provided her a break in Bollywood with Fashion and later she also did Jail with him, buzz is that all is not well between the duo. Though they greet each other cordially in public, there is a bit of resentment from Mugdha as she was left to make it on her own in Bollywood.

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Now several girls spotted Gill and instantly made their way over to chat him up. Simran was okay with that but the attention Sunny got from a current swimsuit calendar model; who's done ads with the Khan uncle-and-nephew duo got Mundi all worked up.

One hears that Sunny and this sexy swimsuit girl were seeing each other before Simran and he started to shoot for JHC and this is what got Simran all hot and bothered. When asked about his equation with the swimsuit model, Sunny said, "I'm friends with several girls but that doesn't mean I'm seeing every one of them.

The person you're speaking of is just a friend and a well wisher." (less)

IANS lists the top 10 actresses who swept the audience away in 2011: 1. Vidya Balan: She started the year with a stellar performance as a deglamorised, strong-willed simpleton in the real-life inspired "No One Killed Jessica", and featured in cameos in "Thank You", "Dum Maaro Dum" and Malayalam film "Urumi".

But for the 33-year-old 'bombaat' actress, 2011 ended with a bang with her sizzling portrayal of a dancing star, Silk , in "The Dirty Picture". Vidya explored new realms to her acting potential, and emerged as a winner, overshadowing other commercially hit Bollywood divas.

2. Kareena Kapoor: Two films and both hits! Even after over a decade, Kareena stood out among her contemporaries with the record-breaker "Bodyguard" opposite Salman Khan , and Shah Rukh Khan's mega-production "RA.

One". She also proved her dancing mettle once again with "Chammak challo", which went on to be a huge chartbuster.

3. Priyanka Chopra: After an average 2010, Priyanka Chopra sprang back into action by carrying out seven different looks in Vishal Bharadwaj's critically-acclaimed "7 Khoon Maaf".

In the character of a serial spouse-killer, Sussanna, the actress has displayed why she is a National Award winner at such a young age. She will round up the year as Shah Rukh Khan's 'junglee billi' in the much-awaited "Don 2: The King Is Back".

4. Katrina Kaif: As a free-spirited, independent girl in the multi-starrer "Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara", as a sexy item girl in "Bodyguard" or as the effervescent Dimple Dixit in "Mere Brother Ki Dulhan", this Britain-born girl has been proving her range with every passing year.

5. Kalki Koechlin: With four diverse films -- "Shaitan", "Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara", "That Girl in Yellow Boots" and "My Friend Pinto" - Kalki has been on a roll this year! Her easy and fluid portrayal of a mentally disturbed girl, a nagging girlfriend, a girl in search of her father, and a lost girl abandoned by her boyfriend, have reassured cine-buffs of her capacity as a new age, commercially-viable actress, who dares to choose different roles.

6. Kangana Ranaut: Year 2011 saw Kangana in a new avatar.

As a bindaas Kanpur girl in "Tanu Weds Manu", she gave her most desi performance ever. She followed it up with the role of a cop in "Game", a supporting act in comedy films "Double Dhamaal" and "Rascals", and featured in "Miley Naa Miley Hum", which went unnoticed.

However, Kangana's standing in the industry remains quite unaffected. 7.

Rani Mukerji: Her fans got a treat after two years when Rani returned to the big screen in "No One Killed Jessica". As a bold journalist, who gets the public together to demand justice for a cause, Rani delivered an image-breaking performance when she mouthed expletives and smoked a cigarette for the role.

8. Anushka Sharma: There's something that clicks about this Yash Raj Films find, despite average earners like "Patiala House" and "Ladies VS Ricky Bahl" in 2011.

Anushka's vivaciousness, million-dollar smile and perfect dancing skills have catapulted her into the league of promising leading ladies of tinsel town today. 9.

Deepika Padukone: At 25, Deepika has established herself as one of the more popular female stars of Hindi cinema. This year she strengthened her stance, not so much with her performances, but because of the elan with which she carried out the sultry song "Mit jaaye gum"; as the small town but confident girl in "Aarakshan"; and as the love interest of John Abraham in "Desi Boyz ".

10. Mahie Gill: Her films, "Utt Patang", "Not A Love Story" and "Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster" this year didn't mint enough money at the box office, but her performance, like always, was well noticed.

The critically acclaimed actress continues to choose films away from tried-and-tested formulas, and garners appreciation galore (less)

"I am not doing Chitthiyan ..

.there was some conversation regarding the film.

But I am not doing it," Shahid told reporters at an event here. For Chitthiyan , a love triangle, Chopra has already signed actor Sharman Joshi and is in search of another male star.

Earlier, actor Ranbir Kapoor too had refused the film. Shahid's previous film Mausam was also a love story, that had failed to click at the box office.

The actor has just completed Kunal Kohli's tentatively titled Teri Meri Kahaani , a period love story opposite Priyanka Chopra. He has also signed another Yash Raj Film, to be directed by Maneesh Sharma of Band Baaja Baarat fame.

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I think he is not interested in getting back to the films. He is enjoying his business and now he thinks like a business man.

I don't think my dad wants to comeback in films," Tusshar told IANS. Tusshar's sister Ekta wrote a new success story both as a television producer and as a filmmaker and today she is a name to reckon within the Hindi film industry, but he couldn't be as lucky as his sibling.

The 35-year-old has been part of the showbiz for more than a decade and gave couple of hits, but claims he is a very strong person. "I am a strong person.

My friend's call me very strong man because I am a Scorpion. I am thankful to Ram Gopal Varma and Rajkumar Santoshi for offering me Khakhee and Gayab as those films changed perception about me at a when most of my romantic films were not working.

They supported me without even asking for their support." The actor now seems to be in a comfortable space post delivering Shor In The City, The Dirty Picture, Golmaal among others.

"I am happy but not satisfied. Best is yet to come.

I am happy about the fact that I have worked with Milan Luthria, Samir Karnik, and some other talented directors," he said. Tweet (less)

A screenplay-script writer has filed a police complaint of fraud against Ram Gopal Varma on May 7 for not paying him his dues for the film. The writer, Danish Raza says that around June-July 2010, one Neeraj Sharma from Ramu's office contacted him to write screenplay of Department.

"I met them, they looked at some of my scripts, liked my work and asked me to start work on the film," says Danish. He started with the draft of the story and after many meetings sent the first draft on July 19, 2010, "which was okayed".

"I further started work on the screenplay..

. Ramu worked on some scenes and we had a discussion like the normal creative process.

My fee was fixed but all along, I kept asking for the contract. But they kept dilly-dallying.

As a result, I stopped work and they sent me a soft copy of the contract via mail. Now I felt that they will sign the contract and I kept waiting for the hard copy which never happened and they stopped taking my calls," says Danish.

In Feb 2011, the writer says, Neeraj told him that Department was shelved due to fund issues and that Ramu has got busy with his next project, Not A Love Story. "I stopped pursuing for my payment since I felt it was now futile and I left for Delhi for my other project.

But later some time I saw that the promos and stills of the movie were out. I came back to Mumbai and filed a police complaint on May 7," says Danish.

"I have got all the evidence, copies of all the mails exchanged and contract mails they sent me. Then I have also got the hard copy of the script with corrections in Ramu's handwriting," the writer added.

The contract is under Dream Force Enterprise. When contacted, Ramu claims that he has never heard of this writer.

"I am busy mixing these days a I don't have the memory of coming across any such person. I meet at least five writers everyday.

I have no idea, my office deals with all this." (less)

With names like Kareena Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra in the past and most recently even Vidya Balan doing the rounds to play the lead roles, Benegal has not given up hope to make his dream project. The veteran filmmaker said, "Yes, I am keen to revive Chamki Chameli but till everything is in place, I do not want to make any announcement.

I am looking at the possibilities and only when the time is right can I say anything. It is too early for me to divulge any information now.

" Chamki Chameli is inspired by Georges Bizet's opera Carmen but has an Indian setting. The story revolves around Chamki, a gypsy girl who is responsible for the downfall of many men.

In the past, Benegal at that time had already spoken to A R Rahman to score the music and the maestro had agreed. When the project was to get going initially there was buzz that Urmila Matondkar would feature in it.

Later in 2006, Sanjay Gupta was to produce the film for Benegal. At that time there was buzz that Kareena was to be cast as Chamki.

What also added to the buzz was that her sister Karisma Kapoor had featured in Benegal's Zubeidaa . But later Gupta opted out.

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And good friend Manish Malhotra is busy chalking out the details of Karan Johar's birthday bash. But there are two people who are going to miss out on what is being touted as the most happening party of recent times.

With the guest list now ready, we found out that Priyanka Chopra and Ram Gopal Varma don't feature in it at all. The actress and the filmmaker will not get to see the cards that are being printed specially in New Delhi.

Gopal Varma's exclusion doesn't really come as a surprise. The two filmmakers - Ramu and KJo have spared no opportunity to take digs at each other in the past.

However, the fact that Priyanka also failed to make it to the list of over 300 invitees comes as a shocker. While it is known that the filmmaker hasn't been too happy with his Dostana actress of late, dropping her altogether from his birthday party goes on to show just how miffed Karan is with her.

Clearly, Karan isn't too keen on waving the white flag to either Ramu or Priyanka. But there's one man he is willing to extend the olive branch.

A source told us, "Karan has invited Sanjay Leela Bhansali with whom he had a tiff recently. In fact, he has invited all his friends from the industry.

However, his good friend Arjun Rampal , Sonam Kapoor and Aishwarya Rai will not be able to attend the party due to prior commitments." Interestingly, this party will be one of those rare occasions to see the three Khans - Shah Rukh, Aamir and Salman under one roof.

And this is just for starters. For the main course, true to his mainstream masala movie style, KJo's bash will have Kareena Kapoor and Shahid Kapoor bumping into each other.

Similarly, Deepika Padukone will have to share space with her ex-boyfriend Sidhartha Mallya. And that's surely not all.

John Abraham and Bipasha Basu too will be present at the party together. We hope that like his films, his party too ends with a happily ever after (less)

But there is a twist in the tale. Rana now tells us that the picture is neither from "Andam" nor from "Department", but from a new film altogether, that he may do with RGV.

When we asked Rana about this now famous shirtless picture, he said, "There was never a film called "Andam". I don't know where that title came from because RGV didn't give it, neither did I.

The picture is a look test for an untitled Hindi romantic thriller." When we informed the actor that the picture and title was sent out by Ram Gopal himself, Rana repeated his earlier claims, "First thing, there is no movie called "Andam".

..

it's a look test for a future film. And it's neither a still from "Department".

Over to you, RGV! (less)

A 'feel-good family film' because there is no visual or verbal vulgarity despite the forthright and forbidden theme. Vicky Arora (Ayushmann Khurana) is an aimless and jobless Delhi boy.

He is persuaded by Dr Baldev Chaddha (Annu Kapoor), an infertility clinic owner to become a sperm donor that could help childless couples. After much resistance, he finally agrees to the act to earn some easy money.

Soon he makes a fortune out of his potent attribute. He also marries the love of his life Ashima (Yaami Gautam) but things take a drastic turn when she comes to know about his covert contributions to the sperm bank .

Vicky Donor comes with a fresh story. Call it a love story on the backdrop of sperm donation or a film about sperm donation with a love story within - the writing by Juhi Chaturvedi seamlessly integrates the two elements to come up with a wholesome entertainer .

Further director Shoojit Sircar flawlessly catches the pulse of Delhi and the drama in the narrative. While the film lightly touches on the theme of the shortage of sperm donors and the social stigma attached to the act (unlike blood or organ donations), it intentionally refrains from being an issue-based cinema.

Vicky's initial opposition to the idea aptly brings out the average apprehensions and his consequent consent reveals the monetary motives behind the act. The love story between the lead pair that starts off on a flirtatious note but soon translates into an amiable affair, brings a sublime smile on your face throughout.

The romance is refreshing and the chemistry between the couple is hot-n-happening. Soon the love affair of the cross-cultural couple gets into the 'Two States' zone.

The film takes an unapologetic look at the culture characteristics (or call it cliches) of the Punjabi boy and Bengali girl and the divergent divide expressed in the sequence of scenes that lead to their matrimony is absolutely uproarious. But beyond having a splendid sense of humour, the film also has a very poignant side to it.

The fact that Vicky's fervent fertility isn't of any productive use to himself is where the film defines a strong contrasting conflict in the narrative. Since the couple's camaraderie was so sizzling, you feel the pinch as they part ways.

Further Sircar successfully defines and distinguishes emotions, elucidating how the point of marital discord between the couple is not merely mistrust but insecurity. The climax comes across as convenient though isn't unconvincing.

The pacing is fast and the multiple-montage crisp editing never lets you lose the narrative. The dialogues vary from the quirky to the well-worded conversations and contribute immensely to the humour quotient.

The music is peppy and goes smoothly with the flow of the film. Vicky Donor is what it is primarily for the livewire energy of Vicky played by Ayushmann Khurana.

The actor is so natural that it never seems he's acting but rather gliding through the role. He is a pro at both the comedy and emotional scenes.

Given the right roles, Ayushmann has the potential to be the next big thing in Bollywood. Yaami Gautam is absolutely ravishing and captivates with her unending charm.

The beauty also reflects in her performance. The supporting cast is blessed with quirky yet relatable characterizations.

Annu Kapoor as the desperate doctor is brilliant and incites most laughs. Dolly Ahluwalia as the hyperactive Punjabi mother is superlative and such a pleasant change from the regular prototypes.

Kamlesh Gill as the modern grandma who shares a drink with her daughter-in-law and aspires for iphones and LED TVs is another fabulous characterization and a fantabulous actor. Jayanta Das as the girl's Bengali father is as much amusing.

With its endless spirit and 'spunk', Vicky Donor brings to life an original, untold and entertaining story. Like sperm donors, there's always a shortage of good films in Bollywood.

So do not miss this one! Verdict: Very Good (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)

"I wanted to work with intelligent and good directors..

.these are the kind of films that they are making.

They are offbeat subjects, interesting subjects, new subjects. I am lucky that I am doing that kind of roles," said Mahie.

"But at the same time as an actor, I need to explore myself further because I too want to do comedies, I want to do romantic roles," added the 36-year-old. The critically acclaimed actress played characters with negative shades in "Sahib, Biwi aur Gangster" and "Not a Love Story", and says there's a special reason behind it.

"A lot of my directors tell me that I have a very innocent face. So when with an innocent face you play a character with negative shades, it looks even more interesting," said Mahie.

For now, she is set to play a deceitful Begum in the sequel of "Saheb, Biwi aur Gangster". Besides Mahie, Jimmy Shergill and Randeep Hooda, the sequel will also feature Soha Ali Khan and Irrfan Khan.

Mahie is currently busy promoting her forthcoming film " Paan Singh Tomar ", which has Irrfan Khan as the male lead. Directed by Tigmanshu Dhulia , the film hits theatres March 2 (less)

"Ekta and I are super excited about the script we are producing together..

. will announce details as we cast the film and title it!!!" Johar posted on his Twitter page Wednesday.

According to reports, the film will be a "love story with a twist", and it will be directed by Akshay Roy. It will be interesting to see what Johar's Dharma Productions and Ekta's Balaji Motion Pictures will have to offer considering their different styles of filmmaking.

The rumour about Johar and Ekta's romance had reached its peak when news of their wedding started doing the rounds three years ago. But they have been good friends since childhood, and have been looking forward to working together for a long time.

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Last October, when he was in Delhi shooting, I called him for a meeting and narrated the story. He liked the script , but was apprehensive about the role, so he asked me for two days' time.

After two days, he called up to say that he would love to do it. Randeep has given his best performance in ' Jannat 2' , and I'm certain that he'll play the gigolo's role wonderfully.

He plays a DU student who completes his studies and moves to Mumbai to make money." (less)

Having created RGV Ki Aag (the Varma version of Sholay) in 2007, the filmmaker will now create his version of the Ramayana in Telugu. Confirming the news, Ram Gopal Varma told Mumbai Mirror, "My version of the Ramayana will be a modern day interpretation of the epic.

It is my imagination of what would have happened if the mythological characters existed in 2011." All set to direct the film himself, Ramu has even decided to cast the biggest stars of Telugu cinema for his opus.

Situated in Andhra Pradesh, circa 2011, the film will be based on a war between two big corporates. "It is the story of Dasharath Rao who heads Ayodhya group of companies.

He is married to Kaushalya. On a business trip, he meets a woman named Kaikeyi Agarwal and ends up marrying her," revealed Ramu about the storyline of his next big venture.

"Dasharath Rao promises his second wife Kaikeyi that he will hand over his business to her son Bharat Kumar and not Ram Shankar, his son from the first wife. He asks Ram to head a sick unit situated far away.

Ram's brother Lakshman Shankar follows him," added the filmmaker. And the story gets better with the rivals of Ayodhya group entering the scene.

Lanka group of companies headed by Raavan Raju creates problems for Dasharath's family. Raavan has a brother Bheeshan Raju and a sister Shoorapauna.

Shoorapauna is a party animal and a drug addict. While the character names and the plot would appear comic to many, Ramu himself denied making a parody of the religious text.

"Unlike the speculations, my film is not going to be a comedy or a parody. It will be a very serious family thriller on the lines of Sarkar.

It will first be made in Telugu and then in Hindi," said the filmmaker. Ramu even assured that with this film he would make sure no religious sentiments are hurt.

A source close to the filmmaker told us, "Ramu recently saw the Telugu film Shri Ram Rajyam Prabhu Dev . That's when the idea of making a modern day version of the epic struck him.

He is currently filming Bejawada in Hyderabad. After this he will decide on the cast for RGV Ki Ramayana.

The Hindi version will in fact be rather interesting." (less)

And devoid of a star-studded cast, the film still boasts of high production values. What goes horribly wrong with the film then is that it's backed by an outmoded plotline that is certainly not jo hum chahein .

What annoys you is the hero's (Sunny Gill) incessant arrogance and cockiness. He reeks of overconfidence which impresses everyone from his babe (Simran Kaur Mundi) to boss (Alyy Khan) but the audience.

He takes his girlfriend to spiritual dates across temples, churches and gurudwara across the city. Until he wakes up one morning to realize he has lost his virginity to a nymphomaniac aunty (Achint Kaur).

As the narrative wanders aimlessly amidst ambition and love, the viewer seems more lost about the central plot of the picture. Until you realize it archaic and nothing more than Shah Rukh Khan's Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman (1992) revisited or for that matter Raj Kapoor's Shree 420 (1955).

The lovers part ways, the hero turns toy-boy of aunty and the heroine inevitably has to be pregnant. The only thing you derive pleasure from in the otherwise predictable proceedings is to see the downfall of the hero who was so full of himself throughout the first half.

The film certainly might be having its heart at the right place but the dated chronicle fails to touch your heart by any means. The romance is cheesy, the writing is verbose and the emotions are so soap-opera that it seems like watching a TV serial.

A multitude of songs only add to your tedium. And the second half almost seems like an endless saga with the hero trying to mend his ways.

While director Pawan Gill doesn't impress much in terms of storytelling, he ensures that the film is a technically sound product and extracts notable performances from the cast. The film is tailor-made as a launch pad for Sunny Gill and he makes a confident debut.

Unlike the recent amateur lot of first-timers, Sunny is natural in his act and appeal and has good screen presence (though he could let himself a little loose). A better script could tap the immense potential of this actor.

Simran Kaur Mundi is decent. Achint Kaur and Alyy Khan play their parts well.

But largely, Jo Hum Chahein certainly doesn't have what we wish from a film - entertainment! Verdict: Below Average (less)

And those who say they don't are lying. Come on, don't we all get bored with our jobs and seek distractions? When I lose focus while directing shots, I also look at my phone for diversion and stimulation, and not just to make calls.

" He even asked this reporter, "When you get tired of writing stories don't you surf porn sites?" Stating that he will incorporate this episode in his film on the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai, RGV added, "I just love the whole irony of it. According to me the incident shows that our politicians are human, and not just corrupt.

" The director added that the scandal is indicative of an India finally growing up, and instead of vilifying the porn industry, steps should be taken to legalise it. "Let's not make such a hue and cry about porn.

It's all-pervasive. When we say, 'Let's protect children from porn' we are just being stupid.

Children neither understand nor get aroused by porn. They should instead be protected from violence and abuse.

And for that a more legitimate moral sanctioning of pornography is needed. Once we legalise porn, there will be less depravity and unnatural crime against children and women.

" Tweet (less)

I would love to act in a RGV or a Puri Jagannath Film," said Sibiraj in a statement. "As an actor, it will give me an opportunity to reach out to a new audience and challenge my screen performance skills.

I missed an opportunity to work with RGV since the Tamil and Telugu remake of Go was shelved due to certain reasons. "Both these filmmakers are recognised for their creativity and for bringing the best from the actor in their films.

If an opportunity comes by, I won't let it pass. I would love to work with them.

I have watched most of their movies and I admire their artistry. I believe it would be a great experience," said the 29-year-old.

The actor, son of Tamil film star Sathyaraj, has featured in films like Lee , Jore and Kovai Brothers . His last release was in Naanayam in 2010, in which he played a negative role.

Talking about his favourite movie genre, he said: "My favourite genre is action-thriller but I wouldn't prefer to be typecast. I would like to act in multi-starrers also but only if I like the role.

I wouldn't mind playing the bad guy or even a cameo if it would make a mark in the audiences' mind." Tweet (less)

A source said, "Anil and Jackie have always been great friends for years now. The duo, however, met each other after a long time.

The posters of "1942: A Love Story" were plastered at the nook and corner of the cinema house. Even Manisha Koirala made it a point to be present at the event.

" Looking at the film's poster Anil remarked to Jackie that while he (Anil) and Manisha (Koirala) looked the same, but his (Jackie's) appearance had changed completely. This probably did not go down well with Shroff who just smirked over the comment.

"A disgruntled Jackie did not know how to react over Anil's comment. Things however turned fine as Jackie took Anil's comment sportingly.

The duo then caught up talking about good old days when they were constantly shooting together for films like " Ram Lakhan ", " Parinda " and " Karma "." Jackie and Anil are keen to do films together even today.

Any takers? (less)

Every woman on this list deserves to be here for the sheer unpredictability they bring to their roles. This time around, Priyanka Chopra won the audiences over with her mercurial turn in 7 Khoon Maaf.

And it's not for nothing that itimes.com/polls got 2.

01 lakh votes! Best actresses in a negative role in 2011 1. Priyanka Chopra : 7 Khoon Maaf 2.

Mahie Gill : Sahib Biwi Aur Gangster 3. Mahie Gill : Not A Love Story 4.

Nushrat Bharucha : Pyaar Ka Punchnama 5. Ishita Sharma Pyaar Ka Punchnama Also check out: The Most Promising Newcomer of 2011 - Male The hottest dance song award The most romantic song award Other polls 50 and Rocking Best 'Talli' Songs Best Baddies Best Cabaret Numbers Best Comedians Best Rain Songs Best Romantic Songs Hottest On-screen Jodis To participate in these polls click here (less)

Casting call Kasab's casting was the most crucial aspect of the film. Ramu informs, "Kasab was the face of the entire episode.

Nobody knows the faces of the other terrorists. He became the centre of attention in terms of being the only surviving terrorist.

And the fact that it is an extremely realistic portrayal of Kasab, I wanted my actor to look very similar to the actual person." Ramu had a tough time finding his Kasab.

Divulging on the challenges he faced, the filmmaker says, "Kasab was just about 21 years old back then. So to find a guy of his age, who matches Kasab's height and has a similar face and is also a terrific actor is a tall order.

" However, Ramu was got lucky. "Casting for a typical film where you need an actor to fit a profile is different from sending out a word that you are looking for a guy who looks like Kasab.

That's how I found my Kasab." Shocking effect The director adds, "When he walked into the room I was dazed.

I was further shocked to see the range of his performance during the audition. You wouldn't expect a guy of that age, to be able to understand and essay such a complex character as Kasab.

He has got a very strong command over the language and from the time we zeroed upon him, he learnt to speak Urdu. By the time he came to meet me, he was fully prepared and probably knew more about Kasab than me.

" According to Ramu, the first scene to be shot is around Kasab entering Mumbai. Producer Parag Sanghvi adds, "Since it's a very sensitive matter and we are shooting in the sea, we took permissions from the Navy, the Bombay Port Trust and also the Customs and the Police.

" Who is Sanjeev Jaiswal? Sanjeev Jaiswal hails from Jamshedpur. After spending a few years doing theatre in Delhi, he is a currently doing a small role in a TV show.

When asked if he is worried about being typecast in the industry after playing the notorious terrorist, he says, "I am nobody so why will I worry about the image? In fact I am thrilled to be working with a director like Ramu in such a big banner film. I have got this role after struggling for four years.

" Speaking about prepping up for the role, Sanjeev says, "I have read a lot about Kasab and I also lost weight to look like him." The actor, who is engaged to be married, says his family and fiance are not apprehensive about him playing the terrorist.

On the contrary, they are said to be thrilled. Tweet (less)

Ask Rana about his USP and he quips with a grin, "It's got to be my looks. It's the way God has designed me.

" The actor, who was in the city recently, was excited to talk about his film Department with Ram Gopal Varma , and another project that the filmmaker has announced with Rana in the lead. According to reports, RGV is so impressed with the actor that he has decided to cast him in the film opposite Nathalia Kaur, even before the completion of Department.

"We are still developing the idea of the film that Nathalia and I are going to do," says Rana. But we have heard that it will be a love story with lots of action.

The actor admits, though, that working with Natty on the Dan Dan..

. song for Department has made him a fan of the model.

"She is fabulous. I have known her for a brief time and she is one of the finest newcomers in recent times.

I think Nathalia has the potential to become a big star ," he says. Reports suggest that the duo shared some sizzling chemistry in a recent photo shoot and he adds, "It was a concept shoot for the film and it was done right after Dan Dan.

..

was shot." As for Department, the actor says that sharing screen space with Amitabh Bachchan made him nervous.

"I was very nervous when Amitabh and I were in the same frame," he says. Meanwhile, his Tamil debut with director Selvaraghavan will take off later in the year, after he wraps up Department and a Telugu film with director Krish.

As the conversation veers towards his love life, Rana maintains he's single at the moment. "I am waiting for the right woman to come by," he says.

'I knew about Bipasha's visit' How does he then explain Bipasha Basu's (his rumoured ex) presence at his birthday bash? "I was celebrating my birthday in Hyderabad after a long time. Bipasha came on a planned visit and everyone knew she was coming.

The media was surprised though," laughs Rana. So does that mean that Bipasha praising his six-pack look for a new film is just friendly banter? "Bipasha is one of my very good friends and one of my first friends in Mumbai.

There's nothing more to it," he says. With inputs from Richa Bhatia (less)

In an exclusive conversation with Gaurav Malani , Bipasha Basu speaks about her upcoming film Jodi Breakers and her fresh chemistry with Madhavan. First things first - is 'Jodi Breakers' inspired from 'Heartbreakers'? Heartbreakers is my favourite film.

And now having worked in Jodi Breakers , it's my favourite film too. And I can assure you that the two films have nothing in common.

Most romantic comedies don't have much of story beyond the boys-meets-girl plot. Jodi Breakers is not a boy-meets-girl story.

These two people are lawyers by profession and know each other. There is no romantic inclination to start with.

But of course subsequently it takes the shape of a love story. You see, finally there are only ten basic emotions and we have chosen love.

Bollywood is known for making jodis. Where do Jodi 'Breakers' fit in such a scene? I guess the idea was to not be regular but a little different from others.

It's a new concept. You could say Jodi Breakers (played by Madhavan and me) are one step ahead of a divorce lawyer.

They are approached by one of these spouses who want to separate and seek the services of these breakup experts. So are they negative characters? They are actually positive characters simply because they break jodis of only unhappy couples.

My character simply believes in the fact that if there is no love between two people, there should be no marriage. After divorce they always have this new opportunity of finding a better partner in life.

Do you see a Jodi Breakers agency actually coming into existence in near future? I am sure after the film releases many would take jodi-breakers as a profession - maybe not legally but undercover (laughs). Have you ever played a jodi breaker or wanted to play one in real life? I am too self-involved and do not believe in making or breaking jodis in real life.

I believe both are more of an individual decision and shouldn't be influenced by other people. Madhavan and you bring fresh chemistry on screen The chemistry works not because we are paired for the first time but more because Maddy and I think alike.

It's fascinating how we hit it off from scene one. I strongly believe there should be individual affection and liking between actors for the chemistry to show on screen.

How is it getting back to your blockbuster legacy of Raaz? You won't believe but I have actually had no proper sleep since I started shooting on Raaz 3 . I just need one good day of sleep and I should be fine (less)

It is being said that Dutt is unhappy with the original climax scene of Department, and wishes that Ram Gopal Varma's assistant re-shoots it. And this is what might cause the film to be delayed.

Busy completing post production work, RGV denies these reports. He said, "There's no trouble between Sanjay Dutt and me.

And there is no delay in the release date either. Department will release as scheduled on May 18th.

" It can be recalled that Sanjay Dutt and Ram Gopal Varma have worked together in Daud previously. Department will be their second movie together (less)

Recently, Department leading ladies Anjana Sukhani and Madhu Shalini accused him of promoting Nathalia Kaur over them. Talking on the controversy exclusively on zoOm, he said, "Item songs have become the face of films.

I asked a little girl about the last film she'd seen, and she replied, Chikni Chameli. She didn't even register the name of the film.

That's what sells, and the way I see it, Nathalia's item song (Dan Dan Cheeni ) just launched the music of the film." Fair enough, Ramu.

And as for Anjana and Madhu, take it with a pinch of 'sugar', gals! For exclusive interviews, B-town parties, events and news, watch B Tonite from Mon - Fri at 10pm only on zoOm - India's No.1 Bollywood channel (less)

I think he is not interested in getting back to the films. He is enjoying his business and now he thinks like a business man.

I don't think my dad wants to comeback in films," Tusshar told IANS. Tusshar's sister Ekta wrote a new success story both as a television producer and as a filmmaker and today she is a name to reckon within the Hindi film industry, but he couldn't be as lucky as his sibling.

The 35-year-old has been part of the showbiz for more than a decade and gave couple of hits, but claims he is a very strong person. "I am a strong person.

My friend's call me very strong man because I am a Scorpion. I am thankful to Ram Gopal Varma and Rajkumar Santoshi for offering me Khakhee and Gayab as those films changed perception about me at a when most of my romantic films were not working.

They supported me without even asking for their support." The actor now seems to be in a comfortable space post delivering Shor In The City, The Dirty Picture, Golmaal among others.

"I am happy but not satisfied. Best is yet to come.

I am happy about the fact that I have worked with Milan Luthria, Samir Karnik, and some other talented directors," he said. Tweet (less)

Tell me which actress is not shedding her inhibitions today? What I have done in Hate Story or Chatrak is nothing new. When a character demands a certain look, you've got to do that for the film.

" Paoli, a self-confessed foodie who loves her 'mach-bhat' everyday, was put on a 'high protein no carb diet' for two months. She says, "I really love food and enjoyed having mithais everyday, which I had to forego.

I had food which was devoid of oil, spices, and sugar for two months. I only ateboiled fish and salad during that time.

I also worked out four times in a day for an hour. I practically lived at the gym the whole day when I trained under Prashant Sawant who had put me on a very strict schedule.

" Paoli says that the leaner look is the global look and in Bollywood that's working too. "Back home in Kolkata, voluptuous women are fine on screen but Bollywood filmmakers do not want their heroines to show off an extra inch on their body.

If you've got to look attractive for your onscreen character, then you need a figure like that." She's also excited about the fact that the first teaser of her movie has created ripples of excitement and generated curiosity.

As an actor Paoli is happy that she has been able to reinvent herself in Bollywood. She also feels that there was never a time when Bollywood films did not have bold scenes.

"The unneccesary hoopla being created about a poster from my film is primarily because social media and other means of communication are hightlighting such things even more, otherwise Bollywood had bold heroines doing bold scenes before." (less)

According to The Sun newspaper, the girl then sent Jessie a picture of the broken limb along with messages like: "I will do anything to be just like you." Fearing for her safety, The Voice judge is now said to have stepped up security.

A source said: "She's horrified this happened. Jessie's a really, really sensitive and kind girl who loves keeping in touch with her fans.

But this incident was just too much for her and she ended up getting really frightened and upset. She was sad that a fan hurt herself to look like her -- but she was also scared for her own safety.

" "Now Jessie's show The Voice is getting bigger and bigger, she knows it is time to review security and the risks to her. She loves her fans but these things are unavoidable in this day and age.

It happens to all pop stars as they become bigger. It's one of the downfalls of fame.

Jessie would prefer it wasn't this way," the source added. A spokesman for the singer refused to comment on the story.

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"I wanted to work with intelligent and good directors..

.these are the kind of films that they are making.

They are offbeat subjects, interesting subjects, new subjects. I am lucky that I am doing that kind of roles," said Mahie.

"But at the same time as an actor, I need to explore myself further because I too want to do comedies, I want to do romantic roles," added the 36-year-old. The critically acclaimed actress played characters with negative shades in Sahib, Biwi aur Gangster and Not a Love Story , and says there's a special reason behind it.

"A lot of my directors tell me that I have a very innocent face. So when with an innocent face you play a character with negative shades, it looks even more interesting," said Mahie.

For now, she is set to play a deceitful Begum in the sequel of Saheb, Biwi aur Gangster . Besides Mahie, Jimmy Shergill and Randeep Hooda, the sequel will also feature Soha Ali Khan and Irrfan Khan.

Mahie is currently busy promoting her forthcoming film Paan Singh Tomar , which has Irrfan Khan as the male lead. Directed by Tigmanshu Dhulia, the film hits theatres March 2.

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Confirming the ambitious Rs.90 crore project, Varma said: "Yes, Sanjay Dutt and I are doing another film right after 'Department'.

I truly believe he is our last action hero. So I am going to cast him as a one-man army on a global mission.

'Munich' is the film I've in mind." "But it would be not just a cerebral thriller.

I want Sanjay Dutt doing a lot of daring action. You see, in 'Department', he plays a plain clothed cop who has to blend with the crowds.

So there's little room for heroics. I want to pump up the action level dangerously in our next film.

So it would be 'Munich' meets 'Rambo'." Sanjay seems very excited about the film.

"Yes, Ramu and I have discussed the project we're doing next. It's very exciting.

" The film will go on the floors later this year (less)

Till now I have got good reviews from people who have seen the song (Dan Dan) and I am glad I could adapt the Bollywood style dancing that I am not used to." Nathalia is unfazed about being labelled an item girl.

She says, "I don't care what people think about me. My song is not an awkwardly placed item number, but an integral part of the story.

People might criticize and label you, but there is nothing wrong in doing an item number. Some people like doing the song and dance and not want to act, so what is wrong with that? Besides the Indian audience is intelligent and know what they want.

" Nathalia, who is still new to film industry has bagged two Hindi movies and is set to make her acting dream come true. "I love the way songs and dances are shown and shot in the South films.

I'd love to do more movies there. But right now I am concentrating on my Bollywood career.

" She adds negating that things have come easy to her, "I have been lucky to be there at the right time and meet right people, but a lot of hard work has gone behind getting where I am right now." She's enjoying her life in Bollywood right now She says, "India has given me a very different experience.

People here see Bollywood as a magical world and look up to the stars. B-Town's an amazing place.

Initially I was scared of joining Bollywood films because of all the controversies. But now I feel more confident and comfortable.

I think I'm here to stay." (less)

I have decided to make a feature film exposing these happenings through a fictitious story," Varma said in an e-mail. Reddy Garu Poyaru (Reddy is Dead) would be the title of the fim, he added.

The script of the proposed film was under preparation and shooting would commence next year after completion of his current venture Department , Varma said. "I was never interested in politics but I always had a tremendous urge to study the psychology of political leaders.

A small stone when thrown into still water will cause ripples but the same stone when thrown into political waters will cause a tsunami," the Telugu-Hindi filmmaker observed. Elaborating on the story, the 49-year-old producer- director said a struggle for political existence begins with the death of a tall leader.

"The leader's own men will seek to use his death as an investment for their political existence, while those on the other side will try to use the opportunity to regain their existence. As a whole, the film will expose the bizarre political game that is played in the aftermath of the tall leader's death," Varma added.

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Sources indicate it could have something to do with the fact that no one wants to stay in the houses he had shot his previous scary films in, including Bhoot , Phoonk and Phoonk 2 . The filmmaker who has earlier confessed to using the location like a character has been quoted saying, "In the right context and in the right composition scene, you will almost feel as if the location is alive.

" Perhaps that's why no one wants to live in the duplex apartment in Evershine Nagar, Andheri, where Ajay Devgn and Urmila Matondkar shot for Bhoot almost 10 years ago. Reason being that some people still feel the presence of the ghost of Manjeet (a character in the film) even today - something akin to what RGV had stated after the film's release - that the apartment and the house had become synonymous with Manjeet's ghost.

Aware that no one was willing to stay in the house where Bhoot was shot, the filmmaker had confirmed, "It seems the owner of the apartment uses it to store old furniture." We also learnt that before RGV shot Phoonk in Amba Villa near Versova, it used to be let out for weddings.

But after the film's release, people were wary of booking the venue." According to sources, " Phoonk was about black magic.

So when people learned that Ramu's film had been shot there, they got superstitious. The place is now given out for shoots only.

" Bougain Villa in Madh Island (where Phoonk 2 was shot) is owned by Mandira Bedi and Raj Kaushal. Source say that the couple prefers to rent it out than actually living there.

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She booked her flight and hotel in Berlin soon after she heard that Shah Rukh will be back in the city Feb 11 for a screening of his latest film "Don 2: The King Is Back" at the Berlinale that opens Feb 9. And she is not the only one.

Eighteen-year-old Selma from Morocco has been allowed a trip to Berlin by her father only because Stella has promised to chaperone her. "Seven years ago when I decided to fulfil my dream of meeting Shah Rukh in person, I was a non-English speaking, very shy and private person.

It was other fans who helped me and gave me the confidence and generous tips on how to be photographed with him, to get autographs and hugs from Shah Rukh," recalled Stella to an IANS correspondent. Gabi Pirkfellner, a potter at Vienna's 300-year-old Augarten porcelain, said she will fly to Berlin Feb 10.

She will spend all of the following day waiting for a glimpse of Shah Rukh and in trying to get two tickets for the screening of "Don 2" for herself, and for Eva Richter, another fan. She will be back at work in Vienna Feb 13.

The hit-and-run visit of these Shah Rukh fans in Vienna to Berlin will cost the girls around 400 euros (over Rs.25,000) each.

However, different fans give different reasons for splurging. Stella is jobless at present, but it's important for her to see Shah Rukh if only to find out how much of a fan she still is.

Hundreds of Europeans like Stella are counted among the first fans of Shah Rukh after a private German entertainment channel first beamed "Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham" dubbed in the German language in December 2004. This was the first time a series of Bollywood films were shown regularly on a television channel at prime time.

"I found the story of the film very strange. I did not like the role of the mother in 'Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham'.

But the only reason I did not turn away from the film was Shah Rukh. I could not take my eyes off him," professor Elke Mader responsible for introducing Bollywood studies at the Social and Cultural Anthropology Department of the University of Vienna, told IANS.

Subsequently the professor spent all her free time watching Shah Rukh films, often till the wee hours of a morning. She has spent years reaching out to other Shah Rukh fans in person and online and has travelled all over Europe to meet the superstar in flesh and blood.

However, this year she will not travel to Berlin to see Shah Rukh. "I tell myself my mother needs me.

I tell myself I don't want to wait outside his hotel and outside the cinema hall in snowfall any more. But two years ago none of these excuses would have worked.

I would have gone to see Shah Rukh no matter what," Elke says. If new fans are making it to the list, the older ones have mellowed and no longer shy away from criticising some of the super star's latest work.

Some first fans of Shah Rukh are even suffering from the proverbial seven-year itch that may have crept into their relationship with the Bollywood superstar. Stella is nostalgic about films like "Baazigar" and "Karan Arjun".

She had fallen in love with the fire that she found in the performance of his early films. She saw "RA.

One" when it opened in a cineplex in Vienna last year and was not thrilled. "The more money that Shah Rukh spends on a film and the harder he tries to be funny, the more mediocre he comes across on screen these days.

I miss sincerity and the fire in his performances," sighs Stella. However, there are still hundreds of other Europeans who look forward to collectively cheering Shah Rukh at the Berlinale this year as well.

It is the secret hope of Stella that Selma's newfound craze for Shah Rukh will infuse fresh life into her own withering love for the Bollywood superstar (less)

Amitabh is excited about his forthcoming film Department in which he plays a corrupt politician. We heard Amitabh's character and his look is one of the attractions of the film.

It is being said that his look in the film is highly inspired by politician Lalu Prasad Yadav's. Big B will be seen in white hair, white kurta and dhoti.

He will also be seen sporting glares. According to a unit hand from the sets of Department, Amitabh's character of a corrupt politician from UP has a different style of speaking.

Although his character is not based on that of Lalu Prasad Yadav's, his look - that of uncombed white hair - will remind you of Lalu at first glance. Director Ram Gopal Varma has recently wrapped up the dubbing of the film and is looking forward to a May release.

Department and Yash Raj Films' Ishaqzaade will clash at the box office (less)

..

, which originally featured Randeep Hooda, Jimmy Shergill and Mahie Gill, said that Neil has been "replaced" by Irrfan Khan as part of a creative decision. But Neil has another story to tell.

"I opted out. I had already played the horny mean husband in 7 Khoon Maaf .

Doing it again would have made no sense," said Neil. To the producer's claim that Irrfan has stepped into the part that Neil was ousted from, Neil said: "Everyone wants to show that the right to choose is his.

It doesn't make any difference to me." Neil had in principle, said yes to the role for the film, to be directed by Tigmanshu Dhulia.

"But then on paper, the character came out (to be) much older. At this point in my career, I don't want to repeatedly play older, mean characters, specially after 7 Khoon Maaf ," he said.

Neil says there are lots of similarities between the characters in 7 Khoon Maaf and the Sahib, Biwi..

. sequel.

"Before the final draft of the script was sent to me, I was quite kicked by doing the mean act again. But after I read the script, I found a lot of similarities between this script and 7 Khoon Maaf ," he explained.

Interestingly, the sequel purports to bring back Hooda's character from the dead. His character died in the original movie, but he is being touted as a part of the sequel.

Hooda himself is clueless as to how he would return to the film. Significantly, Sunil Bohra, who was a partner in the production of Sahib, Biwi.

..

, has opted out of the sequel. Sources close to Bohra claim he couldn't see eye to eye with the director any more.

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I have decided to make a feature film exposing these happenings through a fictitious story," Varma said in an e-mail. Reddy Garu Poyaru (Reddy is Dead) would be the title of the fim, he added.

The script of the proposed film was under preparation and shooting would commence next year after completion of his current venture Department , Varma said. "I was never interested in politics but I always had a tremendous urge to study the psychology of political leaders.

A small stone when thrown into still water will cause ripples but the same stone when thrown into political waters will cause a tsunami," the Telugu-Hindi filmmaker observed. Elaborating on the story, the 49-year-old producer- director said a struggle for political existence begins with the death of a tall leader.

"The leader's own men will seek to use his death as an investment for their political existence, while those on the other side will try to use the opportunity to regain their existence. As a whole, the film will expose the bizarre political game that is played in the aftermath of the tall leader's death," Varma added.

Tweet (less)

So essentially, we're free to name any of the cops who were part of the incident. We're now in the process of covering all legal hurdles as far as naming every character from the underworld is concerned," said Gupta.

Shootout At Wadala , a presequel to the 2007 film Shootout At Lokhandwala , recreates the gunfight in which gangster Manya Surve was shot dead. Instead of hesitating to admit that the movie is inspired by a real incident, Gupta's film will begin with a claimer: "Everything you're about to watch happened on the streets of Mumbai.

" Gupta has sought the services of Mumbai lawyer Ameet Nayak to make sure all loopholes are covered so that he can call a spade a spade. Or a Dawood, a Dawood.

Interestingly, the marriage of the real and reel characters would be announced at the beginning of the film with images of gangster Surve and supercop Isaque Bagwan fusing into the images of actors John Abraham and Anil Kapoor, who play the respective parts. "There's no point in beating around the bush.

No point in getting into a real-life plot and then turning back half-way with semi-fictional devices. I want every character to be named and depicted the way they were.

"You either make a fiction or a non-fiction film. There's no middle ground for this.

I am making a film based on an incident that happened in 1982 and I've got legal advice to make sure I can tell my story without fear of a backlash," said Gupta. Tweet (less)

"On the matter of money being offered by publications, it is sheer gossip and figments of imagination by some very creative minds. We have not come across any such preposterous propositions and even if, heaven forbid, they were to come, they shall never be entertained," said Big B.

He is set to wear grease paint and step under the arclight for Shirish Kunder's "Common Man" in March next year and says that he had many offers and finalised on it as it suited his schedule. Excerpts from an interview: Beti B is now a month old.

What is it like being a dadaji? Do you spend more time at home now just to be near her? A: Yes, being with the little one is a delight. The entire day is spent around her and our daily schedules revolve around what would suit her best.

Even otherwise, I was spending more time at home, but now more so. There is a worldwide curiosity and clamour to see the little angel's face.

Apparently astronomical sums of money are being offered by publications for a picture. Your opinion on this? I cannot understand the clamour about seeing the baby's face.

It is a personal matter and I would appreciate people respecting that fact. On the matter of money being offered by publications, it is sheer gossip and figments of imagination by some very creative minds.

We have not come across any such preposterous propositions and even if, heaven forbid, they were to come, they shall never be entertained. There was similar talk at the time of Abhishek's wedding and they were untrue and false.

Perhaps this is a prevalent practice in the West with their celebrities, but we do not and shall not entertain them. The baby's name too is a matter of national curiosity and debate.

Has the family zeroed in on the possible names? A: We are working on the name and should have finality on it soon. There have been hundreds of suggestions not just from the family and relatives, but also from the people, voluntarily.

For this, I would like to extend my gratitude. How much of Abhishek and Aishwarya do you see in the baby? A bit of both.

Moving away to your career, you have just signed your first film this year. Why this long gap? And what made you choose Shirish Kunder's film above the others? No, this is not the first film I have signed this year.

Technically, I am still to sign on the dotted line. But I had agreed on several even before Shirish's, it's just that his got mention on the social network which then got attention.

Ashutosh Gowariker, Prakash Jha, Balki, Amit Sharma, Shoojit Sarkar, Rakesh Mehra, RGV ( Ram Gopal Varma ), Nikhil Advani and Sudhir Mishra and a few others were all being discussed and finalised throughout. Ashutosh was to start in December 2011, but shifted to summer of 2012 due to location availability.

Others needed more time on pre production. Shirish says he can begin in March and that suited my schedule, so we shall hopefully begin then.

How far is "Common Man" inspired by the contestants you encountered on Kaun Banega Crorepati, particularly Sushil Kumar? None at all. "Common Man" you must know is a working title and can be identified with any vocation.

The year is almost done. Your thoughts on 2011.

'Ek aur saal beet gaya!' What do you see yourself doing in 2012 that you haven't already done? Be a devoted 'dadaji' (less)

Kuch Toh Log Kahenge , a hit song picturised on Sharmila Tagore and Rajesh Khanna in Amar Prem , is now the the title of Indian adaptation of the popular Pakistani serial Dhoop Kinare . Mohnish Behl and Kritika Kamra are the protagonists in the love story of a 40-plus guy and a 20-something girl.

The title of Ekta Kapoor's Bade Acche Lagte Hain is picked up from the song in the 1976 movie Balika Badhu , about the arranged marriage of two teenagers, played by Sachin Pilgaonker and Rajni Sharma. The TV show revolves around a business tycoon in his early 40s and a working woman in her late 30s who are brought together by an arranged marriage.

There are many other instances. Dekha Ek Khwaab , has been taken from the evergreen song Dekha ek khwaab toh yeh silsilay hue picturised on Amitabh Bachchan and Rekha in the 1981 film Silsila .

The show is a fairytale story of a young girl who lives in a chawl but is actually a princess. The title of another new show Ruk Jana Nahi is a lift from Ruk jana nahi tu kahin haar ke from the 1974 film Imtihaan starring Vinod Khanna, while Diya Aur Bati is based on the song from Anil Kapoor-Tabu starrer Viraasat .

Sapno Se Bhare Naina is from Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy's composition Sapnon se bhare naina, na neend hai na chaina from the soundtrack of Luck By Chance . Iss Pyaar ko Main Kya Naam Doon is another show that takes its title from a song from Tusshar Kapoor-Kareena Kapoor-starrer Mujhe Kuch Kehna Hai .

Remember the popular song Phoolon ka taaron ka sabka kehna hai, ek hazaaron mein meri behna hai sung by Dev Anand for his screen sister Zeenat Aman in the film Hare Rama Hare Krishna ? The heart-warming song has made it to the title of the TV show Ek Hazaaron Mein Meri Behna Hai , which is a tale of two sisters and the strong bond they share. Comedy show Sajan Re Jhoot Mat Bolo has been taken from the song Sajan re jhoot mat bolo, khuda ke pass jana hai picturised on legendary actor Raj Kapoor in the film Teesri Kasam .

Other popular shows Sasural Genda Phool and Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai are also inspired by the songs from Abhishek Bachchan's Delhi-6 and Tabu-starrer Meenaxi respectively. The list doesn't end here! Two upcoming shows titles - Kya Hua Tera Vaada and Na Bole Tum Na Maine Kuuch Kaha - are also inspired by songs.

Kya Hua Tera Vaada marks the comeback of actress Mona Singh in a daily soap after Jassi Jaisi Koi Nahi . While Kya hua tera.

..

is a song from 1977 film Hum Kisi Se Kum Nahin , Na bole tum..

is a track from 1979 film Baaton Baaton Mein . Tweet (less)

I would love to act in a RGV or a Puri Jagannath Film," said Sibiraj in a statement. "As an actor, it will give me an opportunity to reach out to a new audience and challenge my screen performance skills.

I missed an opportunity to work with RGV since the Tamil and Telugu remake of Go was shelved due to certain reasons. "Both these filmmakers are recognised for their creativity and for bringing the best from the actor in their films.

If an opportunity comes by, I won't let it pass. I would love to work with them.

I have watched most of their movies and I admire their artistry. I believe it would be a great experience," said the 29-year-old.

The actor, son of Tamil film star Sathyaraj, has featured in films like Lee , Jore and Kovai Brothers . His last release was in Naanayam in 2010, in which he played a negative role.

Talking about his favourite movie genre, he said: "My favourite genre is action-thriller but I wouldn't prefer to be typecast. I would like to act in multi-starrers also but only if I like the role.

I wouldn't mind playing the bad guy or even a cameo if it would make a mark in the audiences' mind." Tweet (less)

Kuch Toh Log Kahenge , a hit song picturised on Sharmila Tagore and Rajesh Khanna in Amar Prem , is now the the title of Indian adaptation of the popular Pakistani serial Dhoop Kinare . Mohnish Behl and Kritika Kamra are the protagonists in the love story of a 40-plus guy and a 20-something girl.

The title of Ekta Kapoor's Bade Acche Lagte Hain is picked up from the song in the 1976 movie Balika Badhu , about the arranged marriage of two teenagers, played by Sachin Pilgaonker and Rajni Sharma. The TV show revolves around a business tycoon in his early 40s and a working woman in her late 30s who are brought together by an arranged marriage.

There are many other instances. Dekha Ek Khwaab , has been taken from the evergreen song Dekha ek khwaab toh yeh silsilay hue picturised on Amitabh Bachchan and Rekha in the 1981 film Silsila .

The show is a fairytale story of a young girl who lives in a chawl but is actually a princess. The title of another new show Ruk Jana Nahi is a lift from Ruk jana nahi tu kahin haar ke from the 1974 film Imtihaan starring Vinod Khanna, while Diya Aur Bati is based on the song from Anil Kapoor-Tabu starrer Viraasat .

Sapno Se Bhare Naina is from Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy's composition Sapnon se bhare naina, na neend hai na chaina from the soundtrack of Luck By Chance . Iss Pyaar ko Main Kya Naam Doon is another show that takes its title from a song from Tusshar Kapoor-Kareena Kapoor-starrer Mujhe Kuch Kehna Hai .

Remember the popular song Phoolon ka taaron ka sabka kehna hai, ek hazaaron mein meri behna hai sung by Dev Anand for his screen sister Zeenat Aman in the film Hare Rama Hare Krishna ? The heart-warming song has made it to the title of the TV show Ek Hazaaron Mein Meri Behna Hai , which is a tale of two sisters and the strong bond they share. Comedy show Sajan Re Jhoot Mat Bolo has been taken from the song Sajan re jhoot mat bolo, khuda ke pass jana hai picturised on legendary actor Raj Kapoor in the film Teesri Kasam .

Other popular shows Sasural Genda Phool and Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai are also inspired by the songs from Abhishek Bachchan's Delhi-6 and Tabu-starrer Meenaxi respectively. The list doesn't end here! Two upcoming shows titles - Kya Hua Tera Vaada and Na Bole Tum Na Maine Kuuch Kaha - are also inspired by songs.

Kya Hua Tera Vaada marks the comeback of actress Mona Singh in a daily soap after Jassi Jaisi Koi Nahi . While Kya hua tera.

..

is a song from 1977 film Hum Kisi Se Kum Nahin , Na bole tum..

is a track from 1979 film Baaton Baaton Mein . Tweet (less)

Prod her about the delay and she says, "I wouldn't say the film was delayed because we finished shooting in six months," says Nisha, who plays a middle-class girl in the upcoming film. "Whenever RGV calls me for a film, it is always exciting.

"Stalker" is a different idea altogether and I liked the character, who is simple, doesn't wear expensive clothes and takes care of her parents," says Nisha. Is she thrilled about getting back with RGV after a three-year gap? "The truth is that RGV launched me in the industry.

My association with him will continue as long as he gives me films to do, so there's no question of getting back with him." And is she ready to move out of his shadow and test the waters with other directors as well.

"I was never in his shadow, even though I would love to stay in his shadow and never come out of it. I am willing to work with all other directors, provided I get some good scripts.

As long as the Chopras are not signing me, I can work with other banners," she laughs. So what does she think of Ramu's new muse these days -model-turned-actor Nathalia Kaur ? "What will I know about her?" she retorts.

"Well, I am very happy for her," she signs off (less)

Says a source, "Mugdha and Madhur may have appeared to be cordial and even posed for snapshots on the red carpet. But when it was time for both of them to go up on the stage, Mugdha refused to share the space with him.

As a result, director Ken Ghosh was roped in to present the award along with her." The awards event was organised by a channel at the Yash Raj Studios.

Adds the source, "Mugdha's sudden change of mind shocked the organisers. However, she did not mind going up on the stage with anyone else.

" Though Madhur had provided her a break in Bollywood with Fashion and later she also did Jail with him, buzz is that all is not well between the duo. Though they greet each other cordially in public, there is a bit of resentment from Mugdha as she was left to make it on her own in Bollywood.

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"I wanted to work with intelligent and good directors..

.these are the kind of films that they are making.

They are offbeat subjects, interesting subjects, new subjects. I am lucky that I am doing that kind of roles," said Mahie.

"But at the same time as an actor, I need to explore myself further because I too want to do comedies, I want to do romantic roles," added the 36-year-old. The critically acclaimed actress played characters with negative shades in Sahib, Biwi aur Gangster and Not a Love Story , and says there's a special reason behind it.

"A lot of my directors tell me that I have a very innocent face. So when with an innocent face you play a character with negative shades, it looks even more interesting," said Mahie.

For now, she is set to play a deceitful Begum in the sequel of Saheb, Biwi aur Gangster . Besides Mahie, Jimmy Shergill and Randeep Hooda, the sequel will also feature Soha Ali Khan and Irrfan Khan.

Mahie is currently busy promoting her forthcoming film Paan Singh Tomar , which has Irrfan Khan as the male lead. Directed by Tigmanshu Dhulia, the film hits theatres March 2.

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It also talks about what lengths they are willing to go to get what they want. Industry insiders feel JHC is perfectly timed for the upcoming holiday season.

Trade analyst Taran Adarsh feels "The film has all the right ingredients to be accepted by the youth. It has created the right buzz amongst youngsters keen to check out the newcomers.

" Filmmakers Siddharth Anand and Vipul Shah who caught portions of JCH came away impressed. Says Siddharth, "The songs are great, the new leads look promising.

I'm anticipating goood things from them." Vipul notes, "The film's production values look superb, I'm excited for the two new talents entering the industry.

" Jo Hum Chahein releases worldwide on December 16 (less)

"Ekta and I are super excited about the script we are producing together..

. will announce details as we cast the film and title it!!!" Johar posted on his Twitter page Wednesday.

According to reports, the film will be a "love story with a twist", and it will be directed by Akshay Roy. It will be interesting to see what Johar's Dharma Productions and Ekta's Balaji Motion Pictures will have to offer considering their different styles of filmmaking.

The rumour about Johar and Ekta's romance had reached its peak when news of their wedding started doing the rounds three years ago. But they have been good friends since childhood, and have been looking forward to working together for a long time.

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Confirming the news of Nana Patekar taking over the direction of the film, RGV said, "Yes, now Nana is directing the sequel. Sahil had some other script that he wanted to do.

So, we decided to hand it over to Nana." Sahil, however claimed that it was he who opted out of the project.

"And right now I am not working on any other script," informed Sahil, negating RGV's claims of the young filmmaker being involved in a separate project. According to a source close to the RGV camp, RGV having convinced Nana to work in the sequel, also wanted him to ghost direct the project.

"Sahil was rather upset with the entire thing. It was his first directorial venture.

So he decided to opt out of the project. Sahil did not want to take fake credit for the film," said the source.

The unit, according to the source, had been informed about Nana ghost directing the film earlier. However, now RGV has formally handed it over to the actor.

And Nana, who has already directed a few films is only happy to take up this challenge. Currently, RGV is focusing on getting the project on the floors so that he can start with his directorial venture 26/11 (less)

Incidentally, they also became the basic role-models(!), and have, almost been idolised by script writers down the ages when it comes to penning villains' roles. Also, our stars have, since long, been very proud of playing don on screen, and have even won awards for the same.

Think Shabana Azmi ("Godmother"), Nayagan ("Kamal Haasan"), Amitabh Bachchan (" Agneepath "). The latest in the line is Bollywood's brand new villain Sonu Sood, who is going around saying, "I am super excited to be playing Dawood Ibrahim.

" He will be essaying the role of the underworld don in "Shootout At Wadala" and he also says he is doing his bit to carry off the role perfectly. Now all of them say this - that they are doing their bit to perfect the role.

Wonder what they do to 'perfectly' portray a guy no one has really seen much in public and someone they (hopefully) have never interacted with, nevertheless, here's bringing you a list of asli dons and their screen versions portrayed by our stars over the years..

. with Dawood Ibrahim and Haji Mastan emerging clear favourites with Bollywood! 'Deewar' (1975): Amitabh Bachchan based on Haji Mastan It was the movie that introduced the 'angry young man' in B-wood, the movie that made Amitabh Bachchan a superhero.

And yet, the fact that the storyline of "Deewar" was based on a don - was actually the making of Haji Mastan - was kept a less-publicised fact. Interestingly, Bachchan's character, Vijay is believed to be one of the first real-life inspired gangster roles in Hindi cinema.

It is rumoured that when he heard that the story of the movie was based on him, Mastan asked for the movie to be shown to him first. Not surprising, since the writer Salim Khan and Bachchan often visited Mastan while the film was being shot, making people believe that the duo took inputs from the real-life don.

Years later, when moving court for another movie based on her dad's life, "Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai", his daughter said, "My father had seen "Deewar" and did not exactly find Amitabh Bachchan's character modelled on him!" 'Nayagan' (1987) and 'Dayavan' (1988): Kamal Haasan and Vinod Khanna based on Varadarajan Mudaliar Both the movies were based on the life and times of the Matunga muscleman, Varadarajan Mudaliar. While "Nayagan" (Tamil) saw Kamal Haasan play Vardhabhai (as the don was known), "Dayavan", the Hindi version had Vinod Khanna playing VM.

But unlike "Nayagan", which got an Academy nomination in the foreign films category, "Dayavan" was talked about for the hot kiss shared by Khanna and Madhuri Dixit. 'Godmother' (1999): Shabana Azmi based on Santokben Jadeja Shabana Azmi added one more National Award to her kitty for playing a woman don in a male-dominated society.

The movie was ostensibly inspired by the life of Santokben Jadeja , who rose to notoriety with her underworld gang in the 1980s and was known as the godmother of Porbandar, and the lady did not take kindly to being shown as a smoker and drinker on screen. Before the film's release, the real godmother filed a case of defamation against the producers.

"Smoking, drinking and swearing are taboo for Mehr women, and I have never indulged in any of these activities," said her petition. The court issued a stay, prompting the film's director, Shabana and Javed to go to Gujarat to placate Santokben.

Their first attempt failed, but nevertheless, a consensus was arrived upon and the movie was finally released. 'Agneepath' (1990): Amitabh Bachchan based on Manya Surve Vijay Dinanath Chauhan, played by the Big B in the film, was apparently modelled on Manya Surve , a dacoit and gangster in Mumbai, also the man in the police records as Mumbai's first recorded encounter killing.

It is said that so heavily was the movie based on Surve, that Bachchan was even asked to copy the gangster's voice. But years later, in a TV interview, Bachchan said his dialogues were modelled on Varadarajan Mudaliar.

The film was a flop at the box office, but earned Bachchan a National Award. The movie was then remade by Karan Johar in 2011 with Hrithik Roshan in the lead.

'Company' (2002): Ajay Devgn based on Dawood Ibrahim, Vivek Oberoi based on Chhota Rajan This Ram Gopal Varma film is considered one of the truest depictions of Dawood and his underwoold activities - though no one associated with the film ever openly said so, the sequence of events that let to the split between Dawood and Chotta Rajan in the film were too close to truth for comfort. Ajay Devgn's role was modelled on Dawood (called Mallikbhai in the film).

Ajay once recalled in an interview, "A lot of research went into the kind of dressing sense they followed, language, the ancient structures and the heritage cars they shuttled around in. And Vivek Oberoi played Chandu (Chhota Rajan).

Apparently, the recruitment of Chandu into Aslam Ali's gang by Mallik was almost identical to that of Chhota Rajan's into Dawood's after Rajan's mentor Bada Rajan died in the early 1980s. It was said that Daya Nayak, Mumbai Police's encounter specialist, who is a good friend of RGV, helped him with the script.

It showed, in the details. 'D' (2005): Randeep Hooda based on Dawood Ibrahim Though this came later, this movie is considered to be a prequel to "Company", and had Randeep Hooda playing a mechanic who comes to India after his mom's death, and rises in the crimelord legions of Mumbai's underworld.

The movie ends with Deshu (as Randeep is called in the movie) planning to form a 'D' company and operate it from outside India. Shades of Dawood, anyone? Shootout at Lokhandwala in (2007): Vivek Oberoi based on Maya Dolas This was based on the Maya Dolas encounter of 1991.

Vivek Oberoi played Maya, a gangster who worked with Dawood. But the real Maya's mother Ratnaprabha did not take nicely to it and moved court to ban the film, stating that it paints a wrong picture of her son, and shows her egging her son to become a criminal, which is not true.

In their defence, the directors claimed that the movie was a highly fictionalised account, though they used real names and places. Chhota Rajan also objected to the film, saying that it "grossly distorts the facts, leading AA Khan, one of the cops who led the team that gunned down Maya Dolas, to rubbish Rajan's claim.

'Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai' (2010): Emraan Hashmi based on Dawood Ibrahim, Ajay Devgn based on Haji Mastan Again inspired by Dawood, this time played by Emraan Hashmi (called Shoaib Khan in the film). Ajay Devgn played Haji Mastan ( Sultan Mirza ).

Emraan said his look was not inspired by Mr D, but the dark aviators and the moustache he sported in the movie were a dead giveaway. And this film saw its fair share of controversies.

First, Haji Mastan's adopted son Suleiman Mirza moved court asking the makers of the film to put a disclaimer stating saying it is not based on Mastan. Also, Mastan's daughter Shamshad Supariwala filed a lawsuit for the same reason.

She then asked to be shown the movie before release to ensure that details of her father's life were not misconstrued. "I only want to see if they portrayed my father correctly and if they have not, then get particular scenes deleted," Supariwala had said.

But later, the makers added a disclaimer. In the pipeline 'Shootout at Wadala' Buzz is that Vivek Oberoi will play Dawood Ibrahim's character in "Shootout At Wadala", and will also use Dawood Ibrahim as his screen name according to rumours.

Incidentally, the filmmaker studied the legal pros and cons of using the name Dawood in the movie. 'Once Upon a Time in Mumbai Again' The sequel to the Haji Mastan movie by the same name has one more B-Town A-lister gunning for Dawood's role - Akshay Kumar .

'Lakeer Ka Fakir' This is being made by none other than Zubair Khan, son-in-law of Dawood Ibrahim's sister Haseena Parkar . It's a movie on the don, and guess because of the lineage, we will have to take him seriously when he says, "Mine is the most authentic movie on the underworld.

" Incidentally, Zubair shares a birthplace with some of the most dreaded underworld dons, including Karim Lala, Dawood and Chhota Shakeel - he was born in the hospital in Do Taaki, Dongri. The downtown area has been associated with the rise of Mumbai's gangsters.

Zubair claims to know every corner of the area and he says that he feels comfortable shooting in the area. 'Mastaan' Naseeruddin Shah is supposed to play Karim Lala in this one, with his younger son Vivaan debuting as Haji Mastaan.

Another don-protege movie, but in an era before Dawood. Movie on Sharman Sanjay Dutt is all set for yet another gangster movie.

This time, based on a real-life don - a take off from Shabana Azmi's "Godmother". Dutt will play her son, the real-life Gujarat-based gangster Sharman Munjha Jadeja, Santokben Jadeja's son, because of whom the godmother gave up her don-ways.

Known as the Robin Hood of Gujarat, Sharman Munjha and his family ruled Porbandar and other areas of Gujarat in the 80s. 'Tamanchey' Starring Nikhil Dwivedi and newcomer Richa Chadda, this one is rumoured to be based on the romance between Abu Salem and Monica Bedi.

But Nikhil has already said it is not based on Abu Salem's life (less)