Saturday, July 19, 2008

Back in Bollywood - Madhuri Dixit

Back in Bollywood - Madhuri Dixit
19 July, 2008: She maybe setting up home and hearth in America but Dhak Dhak girl Madhuri Dixit is still very much in demand. And the dancing diva is now gearing up for the Bachchan’s Unforgettable tour as she will be doing one of the surprise performances in the American leg of the show.The failure of her come back movie Aaja Nachla has certainly disappointed Madhuri. Though she is not keen to do many films after Aaja Nachle there are many filmmakers who are still keen to sign her.According to the latest buzz Chak De fame Shimit Amin has approached Madhuri to play the protagonist for his forthcoming film. Reportedly the movie is about a dancer. While Madhuri who is miffed with Yash raj for not promoting her film properly seems a bit reluctant to work with them again.When contacted, her manager Riku Rakessh Nath said, “She has been getting many offers. Madhuri never had a PRO for any of her films and yet they were are blockbusters. But for her last film, there were so many promotions planned and she was not happy with the way Aaja Nachle was promoted. It didn’t go according to plan.”It is believed that Indra Kumar has approached Madhuri for his next. He had plans to launch his daughter Shweta Kumar in the same film. Apart from that Anil Kapoor and Boney Kapoor have approached her for their forthcoming film. She has also been approached for Meghna Gulzar’s forthcoming film which will be produced by PNC. Though they are good offers, Madhuri’s yet to sign on the dotted line for any film as of now, informs her manager, Riku Rakesh Nath.Needless to say that this Dhak Dhak girl will always be sought after by Bollywood filmmakers, no matter how her last film’s fate was. But this time round, Madhuri Dixit Nene plans to play it safe.

Thursday, July 17, 2008

Bollywood star Aishwarya Rai hits Toronto


Bollywood star Aishwarya Rai hits Toronto

Bollywood actors Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan (R) speak to the media to promote the "Unforgettable" world tour in Toronto, July 17, 2008.

One Unforgettable Night



Bachchan Family's HOT Toronto arrival


Bachchan Family's HOT Toronto arrival

17 July, 2008: It really doesnt get hotter than this! The sweltering hot Toronto Summer was notched up levels higher with the arrival of Bollywood's Hottest Stars of 'Unforgettable Tour' Clan. Thats Right Toronto, The Biggest Superstars of Indian Cinema have arrived in our very own city.The first family of Bollywood-the Bachchan 's along with Ritesh Deshmukh on arrived at Toronto Pearson Airport on July16, 2008. The Bachchan Family not only exudes magnetism but attracts scores of fans everywhere they go. When they landed at the Toronto Pearson International Airport hundreds of excited fans were eagerly awaiting to greet them. And the family didnt disappoint the fans one bit as they patiently interacted with fans and signed autographs Do you remember us teasing you with promises of bringing the exclusive coverage of stars flocking from Mumbai to Toronto to set the stage on fire?The stars are here and the summer sure got a whole lot hotter. As promised, Filmicafe brings you an exclusive coverage of the Bachchan Family along with Ritesh Deshmukh arriving at the Pearson International Airport, Toronto.If you havent bought your tickets now is the time. There is only One day left to become a part of history, to be there for an Unforgettable Night. So book your tickets Now! Stay tuned to Filmicafe.com for all the Unforgettable Exclusive. We promise only because we can deliver. Photos: Bachchan Family Arriving at Toronto Airport for Unforgettable Tour

One Unforgettable Night






Sharmila Tagore to make her debut in Marathi cinema


After having won cine-goers' hearts with her performances in many Hindi films, veteran actress Sharmila Tagore would now be seen making her debut in a Marathi film. The film will be directed by noted actor-director Amol Palekar.
Although the actress says that it's not a very meaty part, the thrill of working in a Marathi film for the first time made her give the green signal. For Sharmila, the first challenge would be in getting the language right since Marathi is not her mother-tongue. However, the actress is ready to learn the language for her character in the film.
In fact, considering her director Amol Palekar himself is a Maharashtrian, learning Marathi won't be such a tough task after all.

Mallika's 'Talli' song raises Hackles, Eyebrows and what-not!


She's done it again. After raising helm-lines in conservative Chennai for the music launch of Kamal Haasan's film, Mallika Sherawat is again busy raising eyebrows, this time for a song that, hic hic, celebrates the spirit of….well, of the spirits! The bottled kind.
The promos of Pritish Nandy Communications' Ugly Aur Pagli show a high-as-a-kite Mallika Sherawat singing 'Main Talli Main Talli Ho Gayi', meaning 'I am drunk' … And the moral army is already on the job.
Reportedly, the songs intoxicating content and that too showing a young free-spirited girl in a state of uncontrollable inebriation (a sort of 'Aaj Phir Jeene Ki Tamanna Hai' on speed dial) is being questioned in the highest quarters.
This isn't the first sozzled sizzler to hit the screen. In fact, the country's Nightingale Lata Mangeshkar sang such melodious memorabilia as 'Kaise Rahun Chup' (Inteqaam), 'Jaane Kya Pilaya Tune' (Jugnu) and 'Han Ji Han Main Sharaab Pee Hai' (Seeta Aur Geeta) decades ago.
In fact, as early as the 1960s, we had the immortal Meena Kumari stumbling drunk all over the place and singing 'Sharabi Sharabi Mera Naam Ho Gaya' in the film Chandan Ka Palna.
Back then ladies were allowed to have more fun. Today the moral police is already on PNC's trail for promoting alcoholism in the 'Talli' song. Ever the iconoclast Pritish Nandy shrugs his shoulder. "Let them say what they like. Firstly, 'Talli' is a zany fun song. Yes, Mallika Sherawat is saying she's high in the song. But she could be high on life. Or she could be high on Coke…I mean the soft drink," he chuckles.
Then he stops short to get sober. "Very honestly, we need to stop wagging our fingers at other people. Why can't a woman lose control in a pub and freak out? Is that the prerogative of men only? I neither drink nor smoke. But I see nothing wrong with people who do. As long as you don't drive when you drink, what's wrong with having a few drinks and creating some masti?"
Pritish Nandy says he is in principle opposed to any kind of moral censorship. "Don't smoke don't drink. Don't do 'it' behind the bushes. Bah! Let people do what they like even if they seem to create a nuisance, so what? We all have the right to do what we like. And the 'Talli' song is about having fun."
Problem is, anything Mallika does from wearing a short dress to getting drunk on screen, creates news. And it looks the 'Talli' song is all set to give Mallika's moral police a rum…sorry, run for their money.

Wishing Katrina Kaif, a very Happy Birthday!


There's a famous story of a beautiful girl, looking at whom, every young man said Humko Deewana Kar Gaye. Every young man was immensely in love with her and had never failed to wish her Hello as he wanted to Welcome her as his Partner. But the true Blue girl that she is, she listened to her Apne and went with a Yuvraaj, despite the fact that she could have easily whisked others in the Race and said Namastey London. Till today, millions of her lovers keep saying Maine Pyaar Kyun Kiya, but can't stop loving her.
They say that clues are the weapon of the smart. Well, if you are smart, then, we are sure that these clues should be enough to know as to whom we are talking about. If not, then, let us do the honours of telling you that we are talking about the 'Heavenly Diva' Katrina Kaif, an angel, who seems to have lost her way back to paradise. But she need not despair as it's her Birthday today and we are sure that not just Bollywood, but also the whole of Bollywood Hungama readers will put their hands together and show Katrina how much we care and love you, by simply posting your wishes below.

Katrina Kaif's birthday


Bollywood celebrities making their presence felt at Katrina Kaif's birthday

Lara Dutta rocks!



Lara Dutta rocks!
July 17, 2008: Bollywood dreams: Lara Dutta made her Bollywood debut in 2003 with the film Andaaz which was a box office success and won her the Filmfare Best Female Debut Award.

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Sakshi Gulati


Sakshi Gulati

Talk about excess baggage and I get nightmares. On my trip back to Mumbai after shooting for Contract in Thailand, I actually had to shell out Rs 18,000 as fine for excess baggage! The thing about shopping is, you don’t realize how much you have bought if you buy it regularly in small stocks and that’s my story too. My mother had accompanied on the sets of Contract while shooting in Thailand. While she would get bored entire day waiting for me, it were only the evenings we had to spend together. So both of us would take off on an exploring spree and instinctively, would end up shopping. On an average, we would restrict ourselves to four-five products but by end of the one-month long schedule, we had bought enough stuff to almost start a boutique shop. The height happened when we got to Bangkok. The minute I came to know that we had won ourselves an off, I called up my mother and we literally shopped till we dropped. When we got back to the hotel room in the evening, we had three people helping us with the luggage. And if that wasn’t embarrassing enough, RGV caught us at the lobby and quizzed if were planning to set up an on-the-sets shop. It was one crazy experience I will cherish for long.

Presenting Ranbir, the Rishi style!


Presenting Ranbir, the Rishi style!

Yash Raj has presented one box office flop after the other for sometime now and the banner is hoping to break the jinx through Siddharth Anand’s forthcoming film. The music album of Bachna Ae Haseeno is already making waves and the show stealer is undoubtedly the title track. The hit jodi of Vishal & Shekhar have blended the 70’s magic with current music to churn out a great hip hop number which has already become a favourite across all the discotheques. But the most intriguing factor of the movie is the presentation of Ranbir on the lines of his father Rishi Kapoor, the yesteryears chocolate boy. Interestingly, Ranbir’s much talked about scene from Saawariya was similar to a scene in his father’s debut film Bobby. Bachna Ae Hasino is a hit song from Rishi Kapoor’s film, Hum Kisi Se Kum Nahi . The song was a rage amongst college goers and established Rishi as the new heartthrob. Rishi played a rock star and portrayed a Casanova image in the film back then. As they say, history repeats itself, here we have Ranbir Kapoor, essaying the same kind of a role and dancing his way into people’s hearts through the same song. Not only this, but keeping with the image that his father played, the young Kapoor will be seen romancing three sizzling beauties of Bollywood, Deepika, Bipasha and Minissha. When we asked director Siddharth Anand if this was a deliberate attempt, he said, “We haven't taken extra efforts to present Ranbir in a different way. Ranbir is a great looker and has a great screen presence. Coming to the song, it was already there in the script. The response is phenomenal. It's been only six days since we released its music and people love it already.” So does Ranbir imitate his father when it comes to acting? An unconvinced Siddharth says, “Comparisons between father and son are inevitable but I don't think they are similar, not even their characters. Ranbir has yet to carve a niche for himself. He is very different from his father in terms of style, acting and dancing.” All things said and done, it remains to be seen if the beta Kapoor is as blessed as the papa Kapoor.

Is Esha a prisoner of choice?


Is Esha a prisoner of choice?

Features inherited from the ‘dream girl’, a star-daughter status and couple of big banner flicks later, Esha Deol is yet to receive her due share of stardom. And while critics may have their own views, it is Esha’s latest co-star Shiney Ahuja who has an interesting take on her Bollywood career. When quizzed about what he thought of Esha as an actress, Shiney told Indiatimes Movies, “I have just finished working with her for Hijack and she is extremely talented. And though she may not yet be in the league of the biggest stars, I think it is more so because of the roles she opted for. In the end, we all are prisoners for our own choice.” Meanwhile, it is not just Shiney but one more industry insider who believes Esha is yet to essay her best as an intense actress. Debutant director and ad filmmaker Kunal Shivdasani who got Esha on-board to play an airhostess in Hijack believes, “Esha is a brilliant actress but somehow the characters she chose did not allow her talent to be exploited to the fullest. In fact, with Hijack it is for the first time people will see her as an actress who can do justice to intense emotions, at times even without a dialogue. In fact, I wouldn’t be exaggerating if I said that I am expecting her to win an award for this role!” Well, after the lull in Esha’s career and the recent controversy of her losing roles due to Hema Malini’s constant interference, this one should come as a breather for the once Dhoom girl.

Neha Dhupia's sari


Neha Dhupia's sari

You thought actor Neha Dhupia looked hot onscreen? Well, she looked even hotter off screen the other day. We bumped into the pretty actress at a friend's wedding. Draped in a beautiful sari , the girl carried herself so well that we can easily say that she did more for the sari than the outfit did for her. Dhupia has been on a workout spree and is currently focusing on improving core strength. Core, bore, we don't know. But the girl was looking gorgeous...hardcore!

Mallika likes simpletons?


Mallika likes simpletons?

There was much brouhaha when the sexy Mallika Sherawat was paired opposite actor Rahul Bose for Pyar Ke Side Effects. But the two worked wonders and the side effect seems to have rubbed off on debutant director Sachin Khot, who has interestingly cast the hot and sexy Ms. Sherawat opposite the simple Ranvir Shorey in Ugly Aur Pagli. Sachin tells us, "I wanted an unusual pair for my film. And opposites always attract. Ranvir and Mallika are very unlike each other and I thought it will make for some great onscreen chemistry." So while we've witnessed the launch of some promising directors like Rajkumar Aamir Gupta and Abbas Jaane Tu Tyrewala this year, let's hope the Ugly... experience proves to be a beautiful one for yet another first timer, Sachin ...Pagli Khot. It's interesting to note the unusual films Mallika is choosing to be a part of...and she is one lady who seems to be staying away from multi-starrers and being the 'hero' of all her movies - be it Ugly Aur Pagli or then the soon to release Maan Gaye Mughal-e-Azam.

Sanjay Dutt walks out of Govinda's film?


Sanjay Dutt walks out of Govinda's film?


July 16, 2008: Govinda is in a dilemma. His home production, Shaadi Banayega, which will relaunch his banner, is stuck. The reason is Sanjay Dutt who has walked out of the project. While the film's debutant director Hadi Ali Abrar denies this, Dharam Oberoi who looks after Dutt's production house, says the star was never supposed to do the film.
"I know the news has been doing the rounds but Sanju had not given the nod to this project," he asserts.
Abrar however maintains that Dutt is ‘in'. "We will be recording songs soon. I have confirmations from both Govinda and Sanjay, we're working out on the combination dates of the other actors," he says. No time The film is expected to start towards the end of the year. Meanwhile, Oberoi still insists that Dutt's diary is full and he has no dates to spare. "I won't deny that they approached us for the film and wanted Sanju's dates this year. It's impossible, he's leaving for the Bahamas for Blue and after that he'll be going to Mauritius for Chatur Singh. Then there's GS Entertainment's Lamha," Oberoi rattles off. "Where's the time? Since he's a professional, he can't back out of the projects to which he has already committed and taken money for. "
Oberoi points out that Dutt doesn't even have dates for his own banner which he is planning to revive. He signs off saying, "Govinda is a very very dear friend and Sanju will always be there for him. He will work in his home production for sure.. but in the future."

Priyanka refused to kiss Harman


Priyanka refused to kiss Harman
When it comes to rules, Priyanka Chopra makes no exceptions, even if it is boyfriend Harman Baweja. The actress refused to kiss the newcomer in Love Story 2050 though a kiss was part of the original script.
"It doesn't matter who the co-star. I won't do certain things on screen," Priyanka told IANS.
When asked about the kiss, Harman said: "It's true. Both dad and I felt a kiss would have been most appropriate midway through the narration when the first Priyanka character dies in my arms. Dad had written a kiss into the story here.
"I was supposed to kiss her as she dies in my arms. But Priyanka chose not to shoot the kiss. We respected her decision and let it be."
But why is Priyanka reluctant to express love in a natural way with a kiss, especially when the co-star is Harman?
"That's exactly why she didn't do the kiss. She couldn't make a concession with me because then other filmmakers would've accused her of preferential treatment. So we simply scrapped the smooch."
Priyanka, incidentally, had done a kiss in her first film Andaaz.
"But that's when she was new and had no choice. Now on principle she won't kiss on screen. I respected her decision," Harman said.

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

Amicable Saif .... Rani M


Amicable Saif

With the completion of Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic, matters have improved a notch. “Initially, when I met Saif, I could not tolerate him and he could not tolerate me. But now, Saif and I have matured and we can go beyond the initial animosity. If there is a scene that I am not happy with, I just tell him and he does not feel bad about it. In fact, even when he makes a point about a particular scene that I have done, I don’t take it personally.” Rani Mukhherjee

Sly In Bollywood Flick


Sly In B’wood Flick

In its biggest crossover casting coup ever, Bollywood has got Sylvester Stallone onboard for a Hindi film. Influential producer Sajid Nadiadwala has signed up Sly for his Kambakht Ishq. He will star alongside Akshay Kumar and sex symbol Kareena Kapoor.“Yes, I have signed Sylvester Stallone,” Sajid confirms. “Since Kambakht Ishq is based in Hollywood, it made sense to cast mainstream American stars in it. This film is one of my most ambitious ventures and I didn’t want to leave any stone unturned.” Ok so Sylvester’s’ a stone!We hear Akki plays a stuntman while Sly plays himself. We also hear Akki may be Sly’s body double. Do they even know why body doubles are used? Lol. So Bollywood-ish.

DAD For All Seasons . . .


DAD For All Seasons . . .or Reasons?

This is what Junior B says about Big B: “For me, as a boy growing up, he was as all fathers are and should be. He was never strict, never shouted or raised his hand even once. His word was final, however, and it was respected. (oh! that we all can see is still to date) Yet, he would explain the logic behind his decisions and why he wanted me to do anything in a particular way…(like marry Ash babz) When I do become a father myself, I will try to be with my kids exactly like dad was with me, Wonderful.” (that’s the overrated family’s fave word)!

Overheard ..Preity Zinta ..


Overheard

“It is very annoying to hear rubbish such as, “Preity sat on a cricketer’s lap”. Does it make any sense for me to make a spectacle of myself? I mean, that’s hardly me. I don’t sit on people’s laps.” Preity Zinta

Vidya And Shahid


Vidya And Shahid Co-stars Or In Love?

Both say “we are just friends.”Everyone knows what that means in Bollywood. Vidya and Shahid is actually a very likely couple and it was Shahid and Kareena who were poles apart. Both Shahid and Vidya are very grounded, soft spoken and like to lead disciplined lives. They are intelligent and diplomatic. Just like Shahid never spoke about his split with Kareena. Vidya hardly ever speaks about her personal life. We think Kismat Konnection has sure made a konnection between the two.But then Vidya Balan has been linked to every actor she has worked with. So it is not surprising that Shahid has been linked to her too. Since Shahid became single, he has, in turn, been linked to Sania Mirza and Amrita Rao

Abhishek learns Aishwarya's dance steps

Abhishek learns Aishwarya's dance steps for Unforgettable tour
July 15, 2008: Abhishek Bachchan is playing the perfect doting husband to wife Aishwarya Rai. When she fell ill after rigorous rehearsals for their much talked about 'Unforgettable' world tour that kicks off in Toronto Friday, Abhishek learnt her steps too.
"We have been rehearsing for the tour non-stop for nearly a month now. Shiamak (Davar) has been working us around so hard to get our dance steps right that my wife Aishwarya fell sick with exhaustion. For three days, she could not move out of the house," said Abhishek. "That put an additional burden on me as I had to do her steps also, not only at the rehearsal hall but at home too in order to teach her the dance steps Shiamak had given her for the songs she would be dancing to during the tour," he told reporters. Abhishek says now he is ready to pitch in for both his father, Amitabh Bachchan, and wife. "I told the 'wizzies' (members of Wizcraft, which is putting together the tour) that if she falls sick again and won't be able to dance during the show they should not get panicky because I have learnt all her steps and might as well double for her. "Moreover, dad's body is also no longer as nimble as it was. In case he gets tired during the tour I may have to do the 'Kajra re' number all by myself. Well, I am prepared for that, too," Abhishek said with a straight face during a media meet here. His impromptu 'act' threw everybody into splits at the event.

Monday, July 14, 2008

Pakistan film makes India record


Pakistan film makes India record
July 14, 2008, Mumbai: The film focuses on breaking down barriers
A Pakistani film, based on a real-life story, is being released simultaneously in India for the first time.
The film tells the story of a boy who strays into the Indian side of the border by mistake. It will be released in both countries on 1 August.
Called Ramchand Pakistani, the film has been praised by the critics.
Political rivalry and three wars have limited people-to-people exchanges between the two countries, which in many respects enjoy similar cultures.
Last year another Pakistani film, In the Name of God, was released to critical acclaim in India, but not at the same time as it was in Pakistan.
That is what make the dual release of Ramchand Pakistani such a significant event.
The Indian actor Nadita Das, who has worked in many regional films and has a big part in this one, told the BBC it was fantastic to work in Pakistan. She said the film would help Indians know more about Pakistan.
"They know a lot about us through Bollywood but we don't know them enough," she said.
The film deals with the parents of an eight-year-old boy who inadvertently strays onto the Indian side of the border and is put behind bars.
The producer Javed Jabbar is a former cabinet minister in Pakistan.
He said it was not a political film but a work which focused on the plight of the child and his parents.
There have been limited cultural interactions between the two countries over the last few years. They have fought three wars since independence in 1947 and are now nuclear powers.

Ash was first choice for Hancock


Ash was first choice for Hancock



July 14, 2008: (New Delhi):
Indian actress Aishwarya Rai was Will Smith's first choice for Hancock over Oscar winning Charlize Theron but the actress declined.Smith, who by his own admission is a great fan of Aishwarya, is not disappointed and believes that they will share good on screen chemistry."I would love to work with Aishwarya. She is gorgeous. I had even offered her roles with me. In fact for 'Hancock' also she was my first preference over Charlize," he told PTI in an e-mail interview.The actor is still hopeful that would work together in future."I received denials all the times, may be she had some justified problems. But of course, I will do anything to work with Aishwarya," says a hopeful Smith.The Independence Day actor, whose latest superhero flick Hancock is all set to release in India on July 11 is also a huge fan of Indian films industry and is currently exploring possibilities of working in an Indian film."I would love to work in an Indian film. I have seen a couple of Bollywood movies which had impressed me a lot. I also had a word with Karan Johar. Let's see what's there in store," says the actor."I love Indian cinema and its actors. Their energy level is just incompatible. The songs and dances in Bollywood movies are just amazing," he added.


Press Trust of India

Mallika Sherawat: Copyright!!!

Mallika Sherawat: Copyright!!!!




Actress Mallika Sherawat, remains in news no matter what happens. The lady has been in buzz lately because of her name… Well, the actress is getting her name a copyright as she doesn’t wants her name to be misused.
“Yes it was long overdue and the formal procedure is currently on. We have laid claim upon the name. Now no one can use her name or photograph to sell their product. This way she can have her own signature label, perfumes, designer label. Mallika is a brand and a brand with tremendous value,” said her lawyer.
Gawd… Mallika the brand… Any takers???

3 Idiots (Forthcoming Movie)

3 Idiots

This movie is partially based on the book by the Indian bestseller, Chetan Bhagat’s Five Point Someone. It casts Aamir Khan, Kareena Kapoor, John Abraham, Saif Ali Khan and Kajol.

Miss Venezuela, Dayana Mendoza, as MISS UNIVERSE(R) 2008



Miss Venezuela, Dayana Mendoza Crowned MISS UNIVERSE(R) 2008


NEW YORK, July 14, 2008-- Last evening, during one of the year's most exciting live international television events, a star-studded panel of judges chose Miss Venezuela, Dayana Mendoza, as MISS UNIVERSE(R) 2008 live from the Crown Convention Center in Nha Trang, Khanh Hoa, Vietnam.
Ms. Mendoza is 22 years-old and her career ambition is to become an Interior Designer. She also enjoys photography and is interested in advertising.
The judging panel for the 2008 Miss Universe Pageant included: Donald Trump Jr., Executive Vice President of the Trump Organization; fashion designer and entrepreneur Roberto Cavalli; Nadine Velazquez, international cover girl and star of NBC's "My Name Is Earl"; Jennifer Hawkins, television presenter and Miss Universe 2004; Louis Licari, celebrity colorist and "Today Show" ambush makeover expert; Joe Cinque, President of the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences; Bollywood film & TV star, dancer, model Eesha Koppikhar; Nguyen Cong Khe, Editor in Chief of Thanh Nien newspaper and international shoe designer Taryn Rose. Jerry Springer and Mel B hosted the telecast of the 57th Annual Miss Universe competition where Lady GaGa performed her hit "Just Dance".
Throughout the two-hour event, contestants from 80 countries and territories around the world competed in three categories: swimsuit, evening gown and personality interview. Riyo Mori, Miss Universe 2007, crowned her successor at the conclusion of the two-hour primetime telecast, before an estimated worldwide viewing audience of more than 1 billion viewers.
Final Results:
First Runner Up: Miss Colombia, Taliana Vargas; will assume the duties of MISS UNIVERSE 2008 if the titleholder for some reason cannot fulfill her responsibilities.
Second Runner Up: Miss Dominican Republic, Marianne Cruz Gonzalez;
Rest of Top Five: Miss Mexico, Elisa Najera; and Miss Russia, Vera Krasova.
Rest of Top Ten: Miss Kosovo, Zana Krasniqi; Miss Australia, Laura Dundovic; Miss Spain, Claudia Moro; Miss USA, Crystle Stewart; and Miss Italy, Claudia Ferraris.
Rest of Top Fifteen: Miss Vietnam, Lam Thuy Nguyen; Miss South Africa, Tansey Coetzee; Miss Japan, Hiroko Mima; Miss Hungary, Jazmin Dammak; and Miss Czech Republic, Eliska Buckova.
National Costume Award: Miss Thailand, Gavintra Photijak. The general public voted on http://www.nbc.com/ for the international delegate whose national costume best reflected her country's culture, originality in preparation and the delegate's personal demeanor. She received a $1,000 cash prize and a trophy from Rogaska Crystal.
Miss Congeniality Universe(TM) Award: Miss El Salvador, Rebeca Moreno. This award reflects the respect and admiration of the delegate's peers, who voted for her as the most congenial, charismatic and inspirational participant. She also received a $1,000 cash prize and a trophy from Rogaska Crystal.
The MISS UNIVERSE(R) 2008 prize package includes: the Miss Universe tiara created by CAO Fine Jewelry (a division of PNJ) designed by Mrs. Dang Thi Kim Lien and Rosalina Lydster valued at more than $30,000 dollars; a 2 year scholarship from the New York Film Academy worth more than $100,000 dollars to its acting or film-making programs; eveningwear gowns from Scala, designed by Sherri Hill; a national and international multi-media advertising campaign and a complete denim wardrobe from YMI Jeanswear; a custom swimsuit wardrobe from BSC Swimwear Thailand; a shoe collection from Nina Footwear; a trophy from Rogaska Crystal; year-long supply of Farouk Systems products, makers of CHI, the original Ceramic Technology tools; membership to Gravity Fitness and pampering at John Barrett Salon; fashion portfolio by leading fashion photographer Fadil Berisha; consultations with nutritionist and creator of The F-Factor Diet(TM) Tanya Zuckerbrot; dermatology and skincare services by Dr. Cheryl Thellman-Karcher; consultations with personal stylist Billie Causieestko and access to an event wardrobe from leading fashion designers; a New York City apartment for the year of her reign including living expenses and professional representation by the Miss Universe Organization to further her personal and professional goals.
ABOUT THE MISS UNIVERSE ORGANIZATION
The MISS UNIVERSE(R), MISS USA(R) and MISS TEEN USA(R) Pageants are a Donald J. Trump and NBC Universal joint venture. Utilizing its nationwide grass roots infrastructure, the Miss Universe Organization is committed to increasing HIV/AIDS awareness by focusing on women's health and reproductive issues. By forging relationships with organizations committed to research and education such as the Latino Commission on AIDS, God's Love We Deliver, APICHA and Gay Men's Health Crisis, Miss Universe is armed to impact women today. For more information visit: http://www.missuniverse.com/.

Sunday, July 13, 2008

Vivek Ladyless....Hard luck or Poor man!!!!


Vivek Ladyless

July 13, 2008: Remember Vivek Oberoi accusing Salman Khan of harassing him?… that was well over five years ago. You’d have thought the industry has moved on since. Apparently not. Actresses are still refusing to star opposite Vivek, although he’s a good actor and a marvelous dancer. All because they don’t want to upset Salman. Vidya Balan, for instance refused to act opposite Vivek in Tushar Hiranandani’s Ram, Rahim Aur Romeo. Her excuse? No dates! Priyanka and Bipasha, is said, to have also turned down K.S Adhiyaman’s Thoondil. This was a good, strong female lead, but they didn’t want to be paired opposite Vivek. We can think of only one actress who won’t worry about making Salman mad - Aishwarya Rai! But then, she won’t want to act opposite ex-beau Vivek either…Noticed how Vivek was heroine-less in Shootout at Lokhandwala? He has no one opposite him in Mission Istanbul as well. Poor man, no females? What a drag life can be Viv!

Lucky Nephew Jaane Tu....Ya Jaane Na


Lucky Nephew

July 13, 2008: Aamir Khan, the man who refused to party - or even host one - is changing super fast, all for the sake of his nephew Imran. He’s apparently planning a huge premiere for Jaane Tu….Ya Jaane Na, Imran’s debut film. An industry source says, “Aamir has never hosted any event party, neither has he celebrated the launches or success of his film. Earlier he had decided to host a success party for his Taare Zameen Par, but he changed his mind, saying that it may appear as though he was blowing his own trumpet. But now he’s very keen on hosting the very first premier of his life for his next production and his nephew Imran’s debut film, Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Na. Who’s Invited: Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan! He has also booked an entire multiplex in Goregaon for the premiere. Big B invited. LOLZ man!

Preity Meets Dina


THE WADIA LEGACY
ONE OF THE BOOKS BANNED IN INDIA: THE POLYESTER PRINCE; THE RISE OF DHIRUBHAI AMBANI IS SELLING LIKE HOT CAKES ON THE STREETS OF MUMBAI. INSIDE IS THE STARTLING REVELATION THAT THE AMBANI FAMILY HAD PLOTTED TO MURDER NUSLI WADIA. THE AUSTRAILIAN JOURNALIST HAMISH MCDONALD WAS THE REPORTER WHO WROTE THE BOOK, UNRAVELLING THE PLOT.Wadias, Tatas, Jeejeebhoys, and Godrejs are among several families that have contributed in no small measure towards the industrial and economic advancement of their community. One such family has for the last 250 years taken on the challenge of industrial entrepreneurship with great success and provided tremendous resources for their community’s well-being – that family is the Wadias.Even today the Wadias lead the pack of the mega industrialists of India. With their unique multi-ethnic, multi-religious marriages and culture the Wadias are no less than any European business family. They can easily said to be the desi version of the Rothchilds. From Lovji Nusservanji Wadia, whose date of birth is unknown, died in 1774 establishing a shipping empire to Nusli Wadia of Bombay Dyeing all had devotedly and loyally stuck to their morals and sincerity of purpose to develop their community. Just recently the Wadias flew to Pakistan in their private jet and relished the food in Lahore and mixed with a few select of the country. The visit was not made public. It is said Dina, too, was accompanying them - Dina is based in New York, Nusli shuttles between USA and India and Ness, well, he is another story that we will mention later in this article.

Coming back to Nusli, the son of Dina and Neville Wadia who controls Bombay Dyeing and a dozen other concerns, with another dozen of business honours tagged to his name, has had his share of corporate success and sleepless nights. At one point it was a game of death that challenged him in the vicious and lethal Indian corporate world where Dhirubhai Ambani was the culprit. Or it is said. But whatever the case – that we will talk about later – the sources are as reliable as can be. Although Nusli wouldn’t talk about it but the truth is that the Bombay Dyeing and Polyester king Ambani at one point in time were arch rivals. Hence, a plot was hatched to completely wipe out Nusli Wadia. There had been reported incidents of his being attacked though, at that time he always travelled with an escort of armed security.There are several stories about the origin of the Dhirubhai-Nusli feud. Some say that it was a war between old money and new money. Nusli Wadia, grandson of Quaid-e-Azam Mohammed Ali Jinnah from his mother's side and an impeccable centuries-old Parsi business pedigree from his father's side, was quintessential old money with all the arrogance and easy flamboyance that goes with it. Dhirubhai's was the amazing rags-to-riches story of the "I am ready to salaam anybody" variety. From a petrol station attendant in Aden to the biggest business house in India - it was a growth marked by guts, innovation and an incredible vision that was governed more by business expediency than by ethical constraints. In 1989, the arrest of a bandmaster named Prince Babbaria triggered off high drama with the revelation of a plot to murder Nusli Wadia. A couple of Ambani officials were implicated, but as is typical of several notorious cases in India, this too has come to nothing. Soon after, the two warring factions called a fragile truce, probably on the realisation that the bloody corporate battle was doing neither of their businesses any good. The Ambanis were, however not attempting to shed their upstart image and transit from "robber baron" to respectability.


Rumour is that the pert Bollywood actress, who has been dating the suave industrialist son of Maureen and Nusli Wadia for the past few years, is reportedly on the verge of a break-up. And the reason being given by Bollywood insiders is Preity’s popularity and apparent rise on the social circuit as co-owner of Team Mohali during the recent IPL cricket tournament. That, plus her seeming fondness for Team Mohali’s casanova skipper Yuvraj Singh appears not to have gone down too well with her reticent beau. Further, Ness’s investment in the IPL also reportedly suffered a beating and what the Wadia scion’s views on this must be is anybody’s guess. That there are regular spats between the feisty Preity and quiet Ness is known. But as for the recent controversy, the actress who is back to work and dubbing for Jahnu Barua’s film Har Pal in addition to attending rehearsals for the Bachchans’s world tour, said heatedly, “What rumours are you talking about? Which couple doesn’t have its ups and downs? Ness and I are no exception. You don’t go ahead and break-up just because you fight.” Marriage is not even a talking point in her life currently. “Even my family is not concerned about my marriage. It’s not happening in the near future,” retorted the actress shortly. As for Yuvraj Singh, the industry grapevine suggests a flirtatious liaison between the dashing cricketer and pretty actress did flicker briefly during the IPL but has died down now. Neither will talk about it, of course. The whispers had started long back. There was trouble in paradise, they said. And the cracks were beginning to show. First they stopped making joint appearances at private functions. Then they stopped making joint appearances at public events. Okay so they were always together at the IPL matches but that, most insist, was more out of a sense of business than anything else. Her more-than-warm embraces with her captain Yuvraj Singh was, according to some, the final nail in the coffin. And now it’s official. The golden couple Preity Zinta and Ness Wadia have finally called it a day. The two have gone their separate ways. The insiders aren’t really surprised because they’d felt the coldness creeping into the relationship months back. And Preity’s hugs with Yuvraj didn’t really help matters. Also, Ness’ mother Maureen Wadia didn’t really take to Preity as bahu material.Remember the disparaging remarks she made against the actress. All this took its toll. The couple apparently was waiting for the IPL to get over before calling it off officially. The million dollar question now is who will own the Punjab Kings XI team. But we guess all that can wait for later. The immediate concern is what’s the couple going to do now and how are they coping with the heartbreak?Hardly seems like a heart break.

Dina Wadia was in Mumbai recently. The only Bollywood celebrity who had the honour of audience with Dina was actress Preity Zinta, Dina Wadia being her beau Ness Wadia's grandmother. Preity says that every time she met Dina, she was more impressed than before. Says Preity, “The first time I met Dina Wadia I stared at her open-mouthed. My goodness! She carries so much history within her. Since then we’ve met over dinner and other social occasions several times. Each time I’m struck by her gentle demeanour, her classic elegance, and yes, her fragility.” While speaking about one of her favourite women, Preity’s face lights up. She continues, “She's so beautiful, so fragile. I was also struck by her unmistakable facial resemblance to her distinguished father (Jinnah). They look like father and daughter for sure! I've never seen two people who resemble one another so closely.”Preity said she had met Dina Wadia both in Mumbai and abroad. “She lives in New York but she visits Mumbai where she has close family. She carries an aura of unmistakable strength. Every time I meet her there’s so much to imbibe from her. You know there are some people in this world who just carry an aura about them. She’s one of them.”The last time when they met Dina Wadia wanted to know about Preity’s IPL matches. “She has so much to tell. And I just want to sit and keep on listening to her. She takes a lot of interest in my life. The last time we met she wanted to know all about the IPL matches. I was surprised, why would someone of her stature want to know what I'm doing? She conveys so much joie de vivre in her attitude.”

Singh is King (Forthcoming)

Singh is King



STARRING
Akshay Kumar, Ranvir Shorey, Om Puri, Javed Jaffrey, Sonu Sood, Katrina Kaif, Neha Dhupia, Kiron Kher

Synopsis
Singh Is Kinng revolves around a gang of crooks transformed by a good man and his selfless love for a pretty girl…Lakhan Singh aka Lucky (Sonu Sood) is the ‘king’ of the Australian underworld accompanied by his associates (played by Javed Jaffrey, Neha Dhupia, Manoj Pahwa, Yashpal Sharma, Kamal Chopra and Sudhanshu Pande.) Far away, in a small village in Punjab, where Lucky was born, there exists someone more notorious than him – Happy Singh (Akshay Kumar). The village is fed up of his magnanimity, which has resulted in a number of hilariously disastrous situations. Out of desperation, they decide to send him on a long trip (that will keep him out of the village for a while!) to bring Lucky back to Punjab, as his despicable deeds were maligning their image in Australia.The happy-go-lucky bumpkin, taking his mission a bit too seriously, embarks on his journey accompanied by his friend, Tony Singh (Om Puri), who hates Happy for dragging him into it.The high point of his journey is his chance meeting with Sonia (Katrina Kaif) with whom he falls in love, but upon reaching his destination, things take a precarious turn as he runs into a series of comic misadventures, leaving him penniless. He is fortunate to find warmth and affection in an elderly lady (Kirron Kher) who helps him meet Lucky.In a strange turn of events, an attempt on Lucky’s life is foiled by a well-intentioned Happy who fights off the attackers by risking his own life. Following the hilarious altercation, Lucky lands up in hospital paralyzed, and Happy, unexpectedly, finds the tables turned on him when he is expected to assume the role of the new ‘kinng’!The series of chaos, shocks and comic misunderstandings that ensue eventually result in redemption and an accidental wedding!Shot in Punjab, Australia and Egypt, Singh Is Kinng marks superstar Akshay Kumar’s re-entry into the action-comedy minefield. With plenty of romance, glamour, laugh-aloud moments and chartbusting music, it promises to be one of the most appealing and entertaining motion pictures of 2008.

Vidya Balan with her new BF Shahid K

Vidya Balan and Shahid at the finals of Jo Jeeta Wohi Superstar....July 12, 2008 episode