Saturday, September 27, 2008

Beautiful History of Kottakkal, Kerala

Beautiful History of Kottakkal, Kerala
(NSI News Source Info) September 27, 2008: Kottakkal is a village in Malappuram District in Kerala, south India. It is an Eranadan village located 12 km south-west of Malappuram, the district head quarters, and 12km from Tirur. Kottakkal is one of the oldest Panchayath in Kerala, and is known for its ayurvedic institute, Kottakkal Arya Vaidya Sala, as well as its temple festival, Kottakkal pooram, celebrated over seven days during March-April.

K. V. Seth in Kottakkal., Kerala
Beautiful Kerala
Preparing to visit Temple
Kottakkal, known as White Fort in Sanskrit, Venkalikotta and Venkitta Kotta in Malayalam, was a small military base of the Kingdom of Valluvanad until the first half of 18th century CE. Karuvayoor Moosad, the chief marshal and preacher of Valluvakonathiri, lived here, and it may be the forts and castles constructed by him that were the origin of the name Kottakkal. The suburbs of Kottakkal were known as Changuvettikadu and Eyyakkadu. Karuvayoor Moosad assassinated Thinayancherry Elayath, one of the ministers of the Zamorin of Kozhikode (Calicut). Then Moonnarpadu Thampuran, the cousin of the Zamorin killed Karuvayoor Moosad in a combat and restored control of the fort. The descendants of Thampuran dwelled in Kottakkal there after.
The invasion of Tippu Sultan of Mysore, altered the course of Kottakkal's history, although this is reflected in the cultural field only. A kinsman of the Zamorin of Kozhikode who had been sheltered in Travancore, fearing the Mysore invasion, later settled in Kottakkal after the death of Tippu in 1799. Among them was Manorama Thampuratty, a female scholar connected to both Travancore and Cochin.
Kottakkal challenged the British occupation by cultural confrontation. Probably this started with Kunhikuttan Thampuran, who translated Maha Bharatham, inspired by the religious movement which developed after the 15th century. After this expression of the elegance of language, P. S. Varier carried on the tradition. His attempts were closely related to the cultural resurrection of Kerala during the colonial period. He gave the local practice of medicine a new shape and dimension. He established a school of medicine in 1917 at Calicut with the idea of education and practice to the Arya Vaidya doctors, and later transferred this institution to Kottakkal. Many cultural, intellectual and other activities were centered in this institution, including Kavana Kaumudi edited by Kavikula Guru P. V. Krishna Varier, Parama Valsam Theatre, Dhanwanthary Magazine, and a Kathakali troupe. Even though the perception of Kerala Unity was visible in the works of Kunhikuttan Thampuran, the conception of a United Kerala materialized mostly through the Arya Vaidya Samajam founded by P. S. Varier in 1902. The Samajam was organized and operated on the political fields of Travancore, Cochin and Malabar. The first meeting of Indian National Congress was called for in 1920 and that itself makes the importance of these events more apparent.
All Indian villages were the focus of sudden agricultural developments in the beginning of the 20th century. However, such events did not affect Kottakkal due to the compassionate attitude of the landowners of Kizhake kovilakam. They were strict in matters of lease and they never tortured farmers. The general state of Hindu-Muslim landowner- tenant set up common to the Malabar area was prevalent in Kottakkal also. Kottakkal has had a history of profound religious harmony for centuries. The Moplah Rebellion of 1921, despite widespread riots, did not disturb the peace of this small village. The intervention of P. S. Varier and the forbearance of the kovilakam helped the situation not getting violent. It is worth mentioning that Muslims under the leadership of Odayappurath Chekkutty from the near by village Kalpakanchery guarded Kizhake kovilakam and Arya Vaidya Sala.
The Mappila Outrageous Act, passed as a result of the 1921 revolt, slowed down the political activities of Malabar generally. Kottakkal however, was little affected, and during this period the political activities were led by students of the Ayurveda College. Their attempt to celebrate National Day in 1937 was a declaration of solidarity with the Youth Leadership of Congress. Greater awareness of social justice and equality led to the establishment of the Navajeevan Yuva Jana Samajam, under the leadership of P. V. Krishna Varier, P. Sankara Varier, Pulickal Sooppi Kuttykakka and C. R. Varier. The principal aim of this organization was the eradication of un-touchability and awareness against malign influences. This was the indication that the political activities of Kottakkal have transcended from intellectual exercises to new horizons of creativity.The political support of P. M. Krishna Menon from Ramanattukara and K. C. K. Raja expedited it. Kottakkal was brought to national attention when it staged the 1939 Parappur Kerala State Congress meeting. The slogan "Enemy of Unity, Enemy of Strike" was approved at this meeting. Farmers began to work as a part of National movement after this meeting, and many agricultural movements began in Kottakkal, Amariyil Kunhikomu being a leader. Many other societies were also formed in Mannazhi, Chengottur and Kuttippuram and they struggled against agricultural debts.
In 1943, during attempts to eradicate cholera, a relief committee and an orphanage were set up in Kottakkal with the help of the Servants of India Society, to help the orphans left by cholera. This was achieved even while the country was suffering from the effects of World War II and famine. A Co-operative society was also established under the Presidency of P. K. Varier.
The development activities of women included modern publications such as Amritha Bhashini and Bala Chandrika, published by Kovilakam. Independence and socialism were discussed in these publications. The earlier women's movement was started by Vallikad Kamalakshi, Kunhanujathi Thampuratti, Madhavikutt'j Varier, V. P. Kaiyani, and others.
During the Malabar District Board, under the auspices of Odayappurath Chekkutty, a textbook called Komala Padavali was published by Komala Printing and Publishing Company in Kundu Bazar. Odayappurath Faizal Abdulla, grandson of Odayappurath Chekkutty, established Komala Institutions, the first job-oriented training institute in Kottakkal,as a memmorial to Odayappurath Chekkutty in 1989.
Sada Mohammed Sukri sahib, S. Mohammed Badusha, all from Batkal near Mangalapuram (Mangalore) were among the chief personalities who had impressed their personal marks on the social, cultural and political fields of Kottakkal. Their activities greatly helped in the unity of Mappila tenants and to expedite cultural growth. Sayyed V. T. Abdulla Koya Thangal, Melethil Mohammed Sahib also joined them

A movie which Soha will connect more

A movie which Soha will connect more
(NSI News Source Info) September 27, 2008: This time it will be a great and unique experience for Soha Ali Khan as she does her part for the forthcoming untitled movie based on the flood of 2005 that made the life still in the city of Mumbai.
As Soha was one of the victims of the voracious flood, she has her experiences to count on and to relate more with the subject on which the movie is based.
The actress has gone out and as the torrential rain was gulping up the city, she got locked up unable to reach home.
To add to the trouble, her car broke down and she also lost the slippers forcing her to walk barefoot through the streets filled up with dirty water.
It was film maker Kunal Kohli who spotted her trying to find her way.
Finally unable to reach home, Soha had to go to a friend's house where she spent the night.
Mukesh Bhatt is the producer of the film in which Emraan Hashmi will be doing the lead man's role.
The movie will tell a love story happening amid the flood.
The movie to be directed by Kunal Deshmukh will tell a love story happening amid the flood..

Asha Bhosle to reunite with Dev Anand

Asha Bhosle to reunite with Dev Anand
(NSI News Source Info) September 27, 2008: Whenever one of senior most Indian film personality and the legendary Dev Anand announces a new project, irrespective of most of his films made in the recent years not being able to create a good impact at the box office, the veteran of 85 years gearing up again with a never say die attitude for his next film gives great fodder for the media to chew on.
The latest movie to come out of Dev Anand's production house has been titled as 'Chargesheet' and is a high budget flick.
One of the specialties of this movie and one which will give all the senior movie and music lovers some nostalgic moments will be the association of a singer whose achievements and seniority stands at par with Dev Saab.
Asha Bhosle, one of the finest singers the country has ever produced will be giving her voice for one of the tracks of 'Chargesheet'.
In the past Asha Bhosle has sung several songs for the movies of Dev Anand.
Most of these songs are considered as classics which are still remembered and loved in the same magnitude as it was years ago.
The lady with the ageless voice will be singing a song for a movie of Dev Anand after a long gap of 28 years.
So this time can we expect a song having the impact of "Dum Maro Dum" from 'Hare Rama Hare Krishna'?
For the evergreen song composed by Rahul Dev Burman, Asha Bhosle had won the Filmfare best female playback award.

Katrina silences the gossip makers

Katrina silences the gossip makers
(NSI News Source Info) September 27, 2008: Destroying all the talk of she being thrown out of Shah Rukh Khan's Temptations Reloaded World Tour after the relationship of Salman and Shah Rukh went sour at her birthday party and Salman Khan not allowing her to be part of any film having his rivals, Katrina Kaif has shown that she is a hardcore professional.
Katrina has gone ahead and agreed for a Yashraj flick having SRK in the lead role.
The untitled movie to be directed by Yash Chopra also has John Abraham in a prominent role.
She will also be sharing the stage with Shah Rukh for a performance at Bhutan during the coronation day of the new king Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuk.
Both the top stars of Bollywood have been invited to Bhutan as the king in waiting is a big fan of Hindi films and he wanted SRK and Katrina to be present during the ceremony.

Ajay Devgan's close brush with death

Ajay Devgan's close brush with death
(NSI News Source Info) September 27, 2008 - New Delhi: Bollywood star Ajay Devgan had a close brush with death while shooting an action sequence for a film near an island in Thailand.The scene required him and four other stunt men to play out a jet-ski chase in the sea.This was being shot by a camera on the chopper to get an aereal view of the chase.While Devgan and his men were jet-skiing, the weather suddenly turned stormy and the chopper moving over them nearly lost control. Everyone escaped unscathed, despite the helicopter blades whizzing inches away from them.Writing in the 'notebook' on his website, Devgan describes the incident as a 'scenario gone awfully wrong'. "Initially, as we started filming and moving around in the shallow waters, the waves were moderate... so we decided to move ahead in the deeper waters since the scene required a proper aerial view which should look like a chase from a top angle," Ajay wrote on the website."They(stunt men) were moving aggressively in the sea trying to give their best shots by manoeuvring with their cuts around me The chopper was also hovering right above us and as close as possible to us to get better shots," he added.According to Ajay, all seemed to go well until they realised they were nearing another smaller rocky island called Maya Bay."Suddenly the weather started to change. The wind and the waves were trying to show us their stunts and our guys instantly thought of retreat."A sudden gust of strong wind hit me and next moment the chopper above us lost control and blades were so dangerously close to us that we could feel the strong whipping winds of our helicopter," he described.Devgan, known for doing his own stunts says this incident will be etched in his mind for a long time.

Aishwarya Rai is on Vogue

Aishwarya Rai is on Vogue
(NSI News Source Info) September 27, 2008 - New Delhi: After Bipasha Basu, Priyanka Chopra, Deepika Podukone and Preity Zinta, Bollywood actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan will also be seen on the cover of fashion and lifestyle magazine Vogue India.Former Miss World sports a natural look without any accessories in a new slim avatar. Aishwarya was photographed by ace lens man Farrokh Chothia for the October issue of the magazine, which is being dubbed as the Glamour issue.The shoot was done in London while Ash was there during the last leg of her recently concluded "Unforgettable" tour."Doing the Vogue cover was a promise I made to Anaita (Shroff Adajania) right from the time she joined Vogue. Anaita was having a baby and she wanted me to do it before she delivers," Aishwarya told NDTV from London. She added: "I was to do this shoot last month but I fell ill before I left for the world tour. So, we crossed notes and managed to do it on time in London just after we finished almost the last show of the tour."Anaita Shroff Adajania is the fashion director for Vogue India and she has designed costumes for films like Kal Ho Na Ho, Being Cyrus, Dhoom 2 and upcoming films like Drona, Biloo Barber and Imtiaz Ali's untitled project with Saif Ali Khan and Deepika Padukone.Aishwarya is currently shooting in Peru with Tamil superstar Rajinikanth for her forthcoming Tamil film Enthiren.

Friday, September 26, 2008

Ashley Tisdale’s Restaurant Run-In

Ashley Tisdale’s Restaurant Run-In
(NSI News Source Info) September 26, 2008: Ready to dive into her daily duties, Ashley Tisdale was looking her usual stylish self as she was spotted leaving her Los Angeles home on Wednesday (September 25).
According to a FOX Pop Tarts report, the Disney starlet had quite the interesting evening during a recent family night out to eat in Valencia, California.

“A bunch of little girls came over and I thought they wanted an autograph, which was totally cool,” Tisdale explained of the situation, continuing to tell that one of the girl’s mothers ended up demanding that she offer up a bite of salad to her fans.
“She wasn’t joking and she wouldn’t go away when I said no,” Ashley continued to tell Pop Tarts’ Hollie McKay. “It was so odd that a grown woman would do that, especially in front of her kids. It was so wrong.”

Eva Longoria Says “Make Me Look Thin”

Eva Longoria Says “Make Me Look Thin”
(NSI News Source Info) September 26, 2008: Accompanied by a few of her gal pals, Eva Longoria was spotted making a lunch stop at The Vienna Cafe in West Hollywood on Thursday afternoon (September 25).
And with all of the baby rumors and weight gain talk sweeping the Web, the “Desperate Housewives” actress jokingly told the paparazzi to make her look thin as she exited her car.

Meanwhile, Eva has also been busy befriending rising young Tampa Bay Rays baseball star Evan Longoria - as he shares a near identical name with the brunette beauty.
Press reports tell that Eva mailed off a bottle of champagne to congratulate Evan for his on-field success. And he returned the favor by giving Eva a Rays t-shirt.
Of her budding friendship, Eva said “It’s good to see that he’s doing the name proud.”

Rajni-Ash shoot a song for ‘Enthiram’

Rajni-Ash shoot a song for ‘Enthiram’
(NSI News Source Info) September 26, 2008: Well, that Aishwarya Rai has been paired against south superstar Rajnikanth in ‘Robot’ is all too stale now. The film was initially to star SRK nonetheless. But due to ‘creative differences’, he opted out of the film. Not just that, SRK reportedly also registered all the names that sounds even remotely like ‘Robots’. The news is that now Shankar has renamed the film as ‘Enthiram’.


Recently, Rajnikanth and Ash shot a song for the film at the UNESCO declared world famous heritage site Machu Pichhu. Shankar also plans to shoot for the film at exotic locations of Peru, South America etc. The music director of the film is A R Rahman and boasts of having ace cameraman Rathnavelu in the team as well.
While Mary E Vogt, the well known designer who has worked in Hollywood movies like Men in Black, Batman Returns and Inspector Gadget will be designing the scientific outfits for the sci-fi movie, the animatronics of the film will be handled by the Stan Winston Studio (USA), which was responsible for the impressive animation sequences in movies such as Predator, Jurassic Park, Pearl Harbor, Iron man and the Terminator. The visual effects and animatronics co-ordination will be done by Indian Artiste.
Stunt director Yuen Woo Ping, who made audiences gasp with his stunts in Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon, Matrix and Kill Bill, has been put in charge of the action sequences of the movie.

Amisha Patel shed inhibition, appeared on the covers of ‘Man’s World’

Amisha Patel shed inhibition, appeared on the covers of ‘Man’s World’
(NSI News Source Info) September 26, 2008: It seems that Amisha too is coming up in terms with Glamour world as she posed in one of the boldest shots on the cover and issue of magazine ‘Man’s World’. Within the pages of the magazine she has revealed a lot about her personality and interests. Watch her in some of the glamour pictures, below.


Wednesday, September 24, 2008

‘Hari Puttar’ escaped lawsuit from Warner Bros

‘Hari Puttar’ escaped lawsuit from Warner Bros
(NSI News Source Info) September 25, 2008: A New Delhi Court dismissed the Law Suit filed by Warner Bros against the producers of Hari Puttar on copy writing issue of the title of the movie. The court said though the title of both the movies is quite similar yet audience can distinct difference between both the titles and termed the suit baseless. The movie is about to released on September 26th.


Rakhi Sawant to lead cheeleaders in ICL

Rakhi Sawant to lead cheeleaders in ICL
(NSI News Source Info) September 25, 2008: Despite all the hue and cry, cheerleaders are here to stay in cricket. The Indian Cricket League (ICL) Tuesday has chosen Bollywood’s sex siren Rakhi Sawant to lead its cheerleaders’ squad ICL Zeebras which will be present at every match of the second season of the league that begins at Hyderabad Oct 10. There are eight other cheerleaders in Rakhi’s team- Ritika, Preeti, Jessica, Geeta, Richa, Sharvari, Jayshree and Sangeeta. They will perform across all the match venues of Gurgaon, Panchkula, Hyderabad and Ahmedabad. Sawant has personally auditioned and hand-picked the squad members and their performances will be designed by a Mumbai-based choreographer.

“Cheerleading is not just tamasha (mindless drama). It is a sport by itself. Until now, it was the exclusive domain of the international cheerleading troupes. But, thanks to ICL, this country will now have an indigenous cheerleaders’ squad,” Sawant said in the statement.
“It was after my performance at Panchkula during ICL’s Season 1 that I saw a huge opportunity for a possible Indian cheerleading squad,” the actress said.
“That dialogue resumed a few months later and culminated in the formation of the ICL Zeebras. I can’t wait to don my Zeebra outfit and break into a jig every time Rohan (Gavaskar) or Raviraj (Patil) hits a six. I am sure, this will be one cheerleading squad that the country will remember for a long time,” she added.
Shariq Patel, ICL’s senior vice president (Marketing & Operations), said. “Cheerleaders have a significant role to play in the modern context of sports. The ICL Zeebras squad includes some extremely talented and graceful dancers. I am confident that this synergistic initiative between cricket and entertainment will formulate a completely new experience for sports fans of the country.”

Sanjay Dutt getting two new tattoos

Sanjay Dutt getting two new tattoos
(NSI News Source Info) September 25, 2008 - Mumbai: After having had a lion tattoo on his forearm for some time, Bollywood star Sanjay Dutt is getting two new tattoos - another lion on his chest and the word "honour" in Japanese on his arm."The actor wanted another lion tattoo, but since he already has one, this one had to be different. We sat together and finally settled for one big lion design ... it's going to be a coloured one," tattoo artist Vishwas Dorwekar revealed."Apart from this, the actor is also getting the word "honour" in Japanese on his arm. This one will be short and simple," said Dorwekar.The artist will also be improvising Dutt's forearm lion tattoo, as the actor is not happy with the way the tattoo had turned out."He wants some basic changes in his first tattoo and I'm working on it," he said.Not many know that Dorwekar is the man behind Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan's 'Kareena' tattoo that attracted much media attention."Saif knew what he wanted and how exactly he wanted it to be done. Tattoo drawing didn't take much time, as he was very clear in his thoughts," he said.Dorwekar has been in this business for the past 25 years and believes that tattoos were always there but Bollywood stars have made them popular."My family has been in this profession for ages, but initially it was only religious tattoos that were popular. Hindus and Catholics used to get religious tattoos on various parts of their body," he said."Now, Bollywood has made tattoos very popular and people are imitating their favourite actors," he added.Describing tattoo making as a "tickling art", the artist said: "The process is best described as a tickling art because when the machine touches your body, it gives a ticklish feeling.""Creativity plays a major role in tattoo making...just by having good machines and a swish saloon doesn't mean that everyone knows the art."It is an art that lies in the hands and not machines," he quipped.What are the popular designs this season?"After Saif wrote Kareena's name on his forearm, getting the name of your spouse, children and lovers is a big hit this season," he said.Getting a tattoo involves dual pain - the physical pain and a hole in your pocket, as a simple tattoo can cost you around Rs 4,000 and the price goes up according to different designs and sizes.

Big B's first international film

Big B's first international film
(NSI News Source Info) September 25, 2008 - Mumbai: Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan has said that he is likely to sign an international film project which will be made by makers of the Oscar winning documentary March of the Penguin.Big B wrote on his blog that he might give consent to this project to be made in English. The project will be produced and directed by the French makers and the film will be set in India and France. "That is all that one can talk of right now," he wrote on his blog. March of the Penguin directed by Luc Jacquet is about Antartica's emperor Penguins which earned $77 million at the US box office. Big B has also hinted that he had got a Hollywood offer. "There is another project from the writer of Taxi Driver and Raging Bull from Hollywood and I shall need to see the script before I consider any further," he said.Amitabh Bachchan has recently wound up his Unforgettable tour with wife, son and daughter-in-law Aishwarya Rai. Bachchan Sr is currently in Paris.

Hollywood Beauty....Selma Blair

Hollywood Beauty....Selma Blair
September 24, 2008 NSI News Source Info
Selma Blair brought a hint of Goth glamour to the red carpet in this stunning black lace Chanel gown that she wore to the Gothic Dark Glamour Book Signing in LA last week. The nude underlay is interesting, the length of the dress is pretty much perfect and the patent black belt gives Selma a gorgeous silhouette. All in all it was an interesting choice for the young fashion chameleon.

Malaika Arora shot sizzling number for ‘EMI’

Malaika Arora shot sizzling number for ‘EMI’
(NSI News Source Info) September 24, 2008: In a shooting for a hot item number of forthcoming movie ‘EMI’ Malaika Arora Khan had outstanding performance with her dancing steps. She was so particular about the song that she got a dress especially tailored for this.








Pussycat Dolls Celebrate CD Release

Pussycat Dolls Celebrate CD Release
(NSI News Source Info) September 24, 2008: When these girls take the stage, it’s way more than just a normal concert. And yesterday the Pussycat Dolls gave some lucky fans a memorable performance.
Celebrating the release of their new album “Doll Domination,” Nicole Scherzinger, Kimberly Wyatt, Melody Thronton, Ashley Roberts, and Jessica Sutta took over the Virgin Megastore at Hollywood and Highland Center, bringing their own flavor of sexy dance moves and infectious melodies.

As for their collective love life, the ladies recently told press it’s much harder for them to find guys than people think.
Speaking for the ladies (except for Scherzinger, who is dating F1 stud Lewis Hamilton), Wyatt told press, “Men are a lot harder to find than I bargained for. To any guys there reading - what’s wrong with you?”
“A lot of men find us very intimidating. We’re strong, independent women and maybe that puts some guys off. I’m thinking of demanding a new addition in our schedule - two hours a week for socializing until I find a man.”

Britney Spears: Focused on the Future

Britney Spears: Focused on the Future
(NSI News Source Info) September 24, 2008: Continuously working as she readies for her big comeback, Britney Spears was spotted arriving at the International Dance Studio in Hollywood, California on Wednesday (September 23).
The “Gimme More” singer has been practicing up her dance moves as she prepares for her re-emergence into the world of pop music - with Brit’s mother Lynne confirming her daughter’s big future plans, saying, “She’s releasing music, she has plans to do tours and some other little secrets that I can’t tell you. It’s going to be fabulous though.”

Unfortunately, the 26-year-old suffered a minor setback when one of her new tracks, “Womanizer,” ended up being leaked onto the Internet prematurely.
A source close to Miss Spears told press, “She is finally getting herself back on the straight and narrow, but is still finding it hard to trust people again. The fact someone has secretly recorded rehearsals and leaked her single on to the Internet has really upset her. She’s really nervous about her comeback, probably more than last time. She was shaking like a leaf at the MTV awards recently.”

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Bollywood's reclusive heroines

Bollywood's reclusive heroines
September 24, 2008 NSI News Source Info
In Kolkata, Suchitra Sen does not meet her fans, journos or even heads of state. But she isn’t the only rigidly reclusive celebrity.
No one can pry Nanda, 69, from her suburban home for a public or award function. She’s in touch with her buddies — Waheeda Rehman, Asha Parekh and Jabeen Jalil — but will not be seen dining at a restaurant or shopping.

Nalini Jaywant is 82 today, and sequestered in her Chembur home. At a furlong’s distance, lived Ashok Kumar and till his death seven years ago, often said that he would like to meet her for old time’s sake, only if she would let him. He had teamed up with her in some of his best black-and-white films (Samadhi, Sangram). They had also been connected romantically, a piece of vintage gossip that Dadamoni would recall gleefully.
The hit girl of the 1960s suffered from an eye defect and has stopped being seen around after that. The south Mumbai girl, who became legendary for her fringe, is now in Juhu, ostensibly happy with her kitty gang.

Sulochana aka Ruby Myers passed away lonely and forgotten in 1983 in her flat in Bombay. A sad end for the woman who once became famous for drawing a larger salary than the Governor of Bombay and who even acted in a film named after her - Sulochana.




A New Singer for Led Zeppelin

A New Singer for Led Zeppelin
(NSI News Source Info) September 23, 2008: The members of Led Zeppelin are searching for a replacement for singer Robert Plant.
Since their historic reunion on stage last year, rumours of a world tour are circulating for Led Zeppelin.
Singer Robert Plant has said that he won't tour with Led Zeppelin, and that he is already touring with Alison Krauss, but rumours of a Led Zeppelin tour continue.
The band's other members have confirmed that a search is on for someone to take Plant's place on the microphone. One source told Britain's The Sun that the musicians have already met with several candidates in London, and have chosen an American for their new singer.

No New Album from Amy Winehouse

No New Album from Amy Winehouse
(NSI News Source Info) September 23, 2008: The new album from Amy Winehouse might never be released.
According to Starpulse.com, singer Amy Winehouse has recorded only two new songs in six months, leaving many to believe that her next disc will never be completed.
The British star has been having a difficult time concentrating on her career, as she continues to battle problems with drugs and alcohol. Her personal problems are now putting her third studio album at risk. Winehouse's last album, Back to Black, was released in 2006.

Celine Dion to Release 2 New Albums

Celine Dion to Release 2 New Albums
(NSI News Source Info) September 23, 2008: Celine Dion will release two compilation albums featuring the biggest hits of her career.
Sony BMG has announced that two new Celine Dion albums are on the way, one called My Love Essential Collection and a double disc set called My Love Ultimate Essential Collection.
On My Love Essential Collection, fans of the French-Canadian singer can hear 17 of her greatest hits, including All By Myself, Where Does My Heart Beat Now, Power of the Dream and There Comes A Time. There is also an unedited live performance of My Love included, which is being released to radio stations today (September 22).
My Love Ultimate Essential Collection features 26 classics, including Pour que tu m’aimes encore and duets with Andrea Bocelli and Barbra Streisand, The Prayer and Tell Him.
Dion is also planning a North American tour.

Trial likely in Britney Spears driving case

Trial likely in Britney Spears driving case
(NSI News Source Info) September 23, 2008: Britney Spears' trial for driving without a valid California license is all set for next month - and the lawyer representing her in the criminal matter isn't happy about it.
J. Michael Flanagan, the pop singer's lawyer, said the matter is going before a jury due to unfavourable "special treatment" by prosecutors and a judge. Because the violation is a misdemeanor, Spears is not required to attend the trial.
A judge rejected Flanagan's attempts Thursday to get the case reduced or the charge dismissed.

Flanagan has repeatedly argued that the singer is being treated more harshly than other people who have been caught driving without a valid California license. He said under normal circumstances, Spears should be allowed to pay a $10 fine and not face criminal prosecution.
He said Thursday that Los Angeles Superior Court Judge James A. Steele cited Spears' celebrity status during an in-chambers meeting as a reason for not reducing the case to an infraction.
"He says, 'But I've never done that before. I'd hate to do it the first time and do it for Britney Spears because then it would appear like she's getting special treatment,"' Flanagan recounted Steele telling him.
Steele said through a clerk that he could not comment on the conference in his chambers. A court reporter was not present for the meeting. Flanagan said he will appeal a previous ruling by the judge denying Spears' motion to dismiss the case.
If the case begins as scheduled on Oct. 15, Flanagan said he doesn't plan to present any witnesses or do anything more than make opening and closing arguments to jurors.
"I'm just going to sit there," he said. If Spears is convicted, he said he will appeal that judgment.
The charge is the last remnants of a criminal case city prosecutors lodged against Spears after she hit a parked car in August 2007 and left without notifying the owner. She was originally also charged with hit-and-run, but Spears settled that charge through an agreement with the other car's owner.
Steele is not the only one Flanagan accused of treating Spears, 26, unfairly. On Thursday he said Michael Amerian, a city prosecutor handling the case, is trying to use the matter to boost his own profile because he running to become City Attorney.
"I am right on this issue and I'm not going to bow down to this guy because he's running for City Attorney," Flanagan said.
Amerian vehemently denied Flanagan's contention.
"We're treating her fairly in light of the facts in this case," Amerian said. He said he has never mentioned his bid for elected office when discussing Spears' case. He said prosecutors have been consistent on how they've handled the case since it was filed last summer.
"We're trying to treat her as we have anyone else who's been charged with a hit-and-run as well as driving without a valid license," Amerian said.
Flanagan said prosecutors have gone to unusual lengths to try to keep the case alive, including citing Spears' divorce from ex-husband Kevin Federline. Flanagan said prosecutors noted that when Spears filed for divorce in November 2006, she had to certify she had been a California resident for at least six months.
The criminal case was filed in August 2007.
Drivers are supposed to get a California license within 10 days of establishing residency in the state. But Flanagan said Spears had a valid license in Louisiana, which is one of several states where the singer has homes.
The case has been repeatedly postponed since Spears was placed under the conservatorship of her father, James, in February. That arrangement means that he controls the singer's personal and financial affairs and was a result of several high-profile incidents of erratic behavior, including two hospitalizations.

Hollywood Beauty Alicia Keys - homewrecker?

Hollywood Beauty Alicia Keys - homewrecker?
September 23, 2008 NSI News Source Info
Alicia Keys - homewrecker? She was referred to as ''the other woman'' in the divorce between Swizz Beatz and Mashonda. Swizz, who accompanied Alicia Keys on her European summer tour, says that he has never hidden his relationship with the star, but that it began after his separation from his wife.

Monday, September 22, 2008

Bollywood's Beauty Shilpa Shetty at Fashion Show

Bollywood's Beauty Shilpa Shetty at Fashion Show
(NSI News Source Info) September 23, 2008: Bollywood director Karan Johar and actress Shilpa Shetty watch designer Manish Malhotra's creations on the last day of the India Couture Week'08, in Mumbai on Sunday night.


Christina Applegate’s Emmy Praise

Christina Applegate’s Emmy Praise
(NSI News Source Info) September 22, 2008: Coming off a successful battle with breast cancer, Christina Applegate was spotted arriving at the 60th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards last night, looking amazing.
The “Samantha Who” actress walked the red carpet in a powder blue one-shoulder dress with gold accents topped off with some stunning earrings and a prom-style updo.

Speaking of “Samantha Who,” Christina’s co-star Jean Smart gave her props during her acceptance speech for the Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series award.
“The answer to the question Samantha Who? is Christina Applegate - I love you. I adore her and she sets the tone for the most amazing, brilliant hilarious cast in the world. I’ve never seen an actress who’s so beloved by her cast and crew. I feel very protective of her. But she’s a very spiritual person and she got through (cancer).”

2008 Emmy Award Winners

2008 Emmy Award Winners
(NSI News Source Info) September 22, 2008: In what’s being considered one of the funnier awards shows in the recent past, the 60th annual Primetime Emmy Awards took over Los Angeles, being held at the Nokia Theatre on Sunday night (September 21).
Keeping consistent with the nominations, the night saw HBO’s miniseries John Adams, as well as NBC’s comedy 30 Rock and AMC’s drama Mad Men, take home the most trophies.

On an individual note, Jeremy Piven, Tina Fey, Laura Linney, Paul Giamatti and Glen Close were among the night’s big winners - all taking home trophies.
The complete list of the night’s winners is as follows:
*Outstanding Drama Series - Winner: “Mad Men” (2007)
*Outstanding Comedy Series - Winner: “30 Rock”
*Outstanding Host For A Reality Or Reality - Competition Program - Winner: Jeff Probst for “Survivor”
*Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series - Winner: Tina Fey for “30 Rock”
*Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series - Winner: Bryan Cranston for “Breaking Bad”
*Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series - Winner: Glenn Close for “Damages”
*Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series - Winner: Alec Baldwin for “30 Rock”
*Outstanding Lead Actor in a Miniseries or Movie - Winner: Paul Giamatti for “John Adams”
*Outstanding Miniseries - Winner: “John Adams”
*Outstanding Reality Competition Program - Winner: “The Amazing Race”
*Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Miniseries or Movie - Winner: Eileen Atkins for “Cranford”
*Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Miniseries or Movie - Winner: Tom Wilkinson for “John Adams”
*Outstanding Made for Television Movie - Winner: Recount
*Outstanding Variety, Music Or Comedy Series - Winner: “The Daily Show”
*Outstanding Lead Actress in a Miniseries or Movie - Winner: Laura Linney for “John Adams”
*Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series - Winner: Dianne Wiest for “In Treatment”
*Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series - Winner: Zeljko Ivanek for “Damages”
*Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series - Winner: Jean Smart for “Samantha Who?”
*Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series - Winner: Jeremy Piven for “Entourage”
*Outstanding Reality Program - Winner: “Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List”
*Outstanding Variety, Music Or Comedy Special - Winner: Mr. Warmth: The Don Rickles Project

Couture Week Bombard with Stars from Tinsel City

Couture Week Bombard with Stars from Tinsel City
(NSI News Source Info) September 22, 2008: Fashion Extravaganza at Couture week is regularly attended by the stars from the tinsel city. This time stars like Anil Kapoor, Karan Johar and Twinkle Khanna. It was day for the Anamika Khanna whose collections were appreciated by presented celebrities.








Aishwarya to work with Will Smith

Aishwarya to work with Will Smith
(NSI News Source Info) September 22, 2008: No other Bollywood actress is as well known abroad as Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. Aishwarya has already done quite a few Hollywood projects like ‘Mistress of Spices’, ‘The Last Legion’ and yet to be released ‘Pink Panther’. Now the actress will possibly again sign an international project with Will Smith in the lead role. Aishwarya said, “There is the possibility of a movie with Will Smith and I am very excited about it because the script is fabulous and no doubt, he is a great actor and is a funny companion to work with.”

Ash is also overwhelmed with the attention she is getting in Hollywood. She said, “I consider myself very fortunate to have enjoyed a fantastic support from a widespread section of audience… I am very thankful for that kind of love and support because it has given me the confidence and strength of enjoying myself and explore different genres, be it art, commercial or historical, I have done it all.”
Where Ash calls herself lucky to have been offered this project, Will Smith is also a great admirer of Ash. The comedy genius also expressed his desire to work in Bollywood.

Sunday, September 21, 2008

Kareena turns 28 but still on top

Kareena turns 28 but still on top
(NSI News Source Info) September 21, 2008 - New Delhi: With an acting career spanning almost eight years, Bollywood diva Kareena Kapoor, who is set to celebrate her birthday by shooting in Ladakh on Sunday, is among the top actresses today. But she says she does not believe in the number game at all."I think it is my choice of roles that has worked well for me. Otherwise, frankly, it is the media who chooses the queen of Bollywood every Friday. I don't like to be tagged as a particular actress and I really don't believe in the numbers game," said Kareena.Kareena says she will be busy shooting in Ladakh on her 28th birthday."On my birthday, I will be shooting for Rajkumar Hirani's Three Idiots in Ladakh. And the best part is that I will be shooting with my favourite actor Aamir Khan," said Kareena. The actress, however, remained tight-lipped about whether or not she will be sparing some time to be with fellow actor and beau Saif Ali Khan. Kareena has had a rather successful innings in the film industry owing to her selective and varied choice of films ranging from family dramas to comedies and thrillers.Popular film critic Taran Adarsh said: "Kareena's forte lies in doing emotional scenes".Kareena made her debut in 2000 opposite Abhishek Bachchan in J P Dutta's Refugee in a no make-up and subdued look and followed it up with the role of a chirpy and bubbly character in Mujhe Kuchh Kehna Hai opposite her good friend Tusshar Kapoor.Her performance in Refugee as Naaz earned her critical acclaim and she received the Filmfare Best Female Debut Award for it.Kareena carving a niche for herself in Bollywood doesn't come as a surprise as it seems to be in her genes. She comes from a family of Bollywood stalwarts right from her great grandfather Prithviraj Kapoor, grandfather Raj Kapoor, father Randhir Kapoor, mother Babita and elder sister Karisma Kapoor.In 2001, Kareena did a variety of films like Yaadein, Ajnabee, Asoka, Kabhie Khushi Kabhie Gham - all of which had her playing distinctive characters. But she witnessed a slump in 2002-03 after doing movies such as Mujhse Dosti Karoge, Jeena Sirf Mere Liye, Talaash: The Hunt Begins, Khushi, Main Prem Ki Deewani Hoon and the four-hour J P Dutta war epic LoC Kargil.In early 2004, she bounced back with her role as a prostitute in Sudhir Mishra's Chameli. She also covered up for her two-year slump by doing more serious roles like the one in Dev.Though she did many comedies and thrillers, Kareena made it big with films like Vishal Bharadwaj's Omkara and Imtiaz Ali's comedy-romance Jab We Met opposite ex-beau Shahid Kapur. But critics' expectations were soon crushed with her latest film Tashan that bombed at the box office. But Adarsh differs. "I don't think Tashan was a bad film for Kareena since her performance was very good in that too. I think she is a brilliant actress and looks superb on screen," he said.Now the actress has a bevy of films lined up for release including Roadside Romeo, Golmaal Returns, Kambakth Ishq, Main Aur Mrs Khanna, and Three Idiots.Apart from her acting, her personal life has also made much news. Kareena had a three-year relationship with Shahid Kapur, which ended last year. She then started dating Saif after love blosommed on the sets of Tashan.

She rules: With an acting career spanning almost eight years, Bollywood diva Kareena Kapoor celebrates her birthday by shooting in Ladakh on Sunday. On the top: Bebo, who swept all the award ceremonies last year for her role as a bubbly girl in Jab We Met, is among the top actresses today.
Let my hair fall: Kareena has had a rather successful innings in the film industry owing to her selective and varied choice of films ranging from family dramas to comedies and thrillers.
Green mean: She has been in news now most for her personal life.
Orange headgear: Popular film critic Taran Adarsh says: Kareena's forte lies in doing emotional scenes.




Salman trying to woo the Bachchans?

Salman trying to woo the Bachchans?
(NSI News Source Info) September 21, 2008 New Delhi: Bollywood's bad boy Salman Khan seems desperate to mend his relationship with the Bachchans. Recently he had promised to make a portrait of Abhishek and also that he will forgive Aishwarya Rai for their failed relationship.Now, Sallu wants to follow the footsteps of Big B in his latest movie London Dreams. Bollywood's brat who is currently shooting in Paris for his new movie wants to shoot a dance exactly in the same locations as Big B had done for Jhoom Barabar Jhoom.The song will have Salman dancing with southern siren Asin. It seems that Sallu miyan wants to mend ties with Bachchans because they are also not fond of Shah Rukh, with whom he had a spat recently.

A New Single from Madonna

A New Single from Madonna
(NSI News Source Info) September 21, 2008: Madonna has released the third single from her latest album, Hard Candy.
The new single, Miles Away, can now be heard in its entirety on the Internet.
Co-written and co-produced by Madonna, Timbaland, Justin Timberlake and Nate "Danja" Hills, Miles Away is the latest single from the disc, following previous releases of the songs 4 Minutes and Give It 2 Me.
There has not been a video produced for this song, although its release is expected to bring momentum to ticket sales for the star's Sticky & Sweet tour.

Britney Spears Trial in October

Britney Spears Trial in October
(NSI News Source Info) September 21, 2008: The trial for Britney Spears driving without her license will take place next month in California.
Britney Spears' trial for driving without a license will begin in October.
The singer's attorney, Michael Flanagan, was furious with the judge's decision of not lowering charges laid on his client. According to Mr. Flanagan, Spears was treated too harshly compared to others arrested for driving without a license. Normally, she would have to pay a $10 fine and would not have to show up in court.
However, according to the lawyer, the Los Angeles Superior Court judge, James A. Steele, said that Spears' celebrity status would not be reason enough to reduce the charges.
In August 2007, the singer hit a parked car and left without leaving any note for the vehicle's owner. In addition to driving without a license, she was accused of a hit-and-run.