Hollywood Announces Its Marriage to the UFC

Hollywood Announces Its Marriage to the UFC

(NSI News Source Info) November 15, 2008: Well, not really. It’s bound to happen though.
These days, Tinsel Town can’t seem to produce anything in the action genre that’s not computer generated imagery or noisy and fiery and bloody affairs—with broken, gooey body-parts flying everywhere like they were shot out of a giant special effects blender. And that is especially true with fight movies.
There might be exceptions, but where are they? Remember Phil Baroni vs. Ikuhisa “The Punk” Minowa One in Pride FC? Now, that brawl had “Crank out a story about these guys, turn it into a screenplay, and then make a movie!” written all over it.
The real fight was an instant classic. An all-out stand up war it was, (mostly) with non-stop haymakers thrown by both principals down the stretch, their faces not missing many fists.
Even Bas Rutten and Steven Quadros couldn’t contain themselves! Bas made Joe Rogan sound like a butterfly with laryngitis. And when Baroni finally put Minowa down for keeps with a weary left-right combination, he ran around the ring, jumping up and down like a rabid dog.
After receiving his Pride FC trophy, he raised his clenched fists like Rocky after "The Italian Stallion’s" famous Bicentennial sprint up the front steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. I guess “The Bronx Badboy” forgot that he was just a .500 fighter who defeated another .500 fighter.
But that was Pride—what about those great UFC battles? Think Griffin vs. Bonner. Or think of 99 other action-packed fights you’ve seen in the short but storied history of the UFC.
Tonight's UFC card features Randy Couture vs. Brock Lesnar. Can you think of a story about Randy? I can. And if I can, Hollywood already has. A Randy Couture story already has a built in climax: Randy’s upset of Chuck Liddell in their first fight of the trilogy. But wait! Randy is already making movies.
Okay, how about GSP? I’ll bet that as a kid, GSP was a skinny little stick-boy who took up karate to thwart all those merciless bullies. The pinnacle of his story can be the doom and destruction he brought upon Matt Hughes in their final encounter.
But, can the essence of the UFC be realistically captured on the silver screen? I tend to think not. Why not, you might ask. After all, countless Hollywood boxing movies have been very successful over the years; box office smashes!
Sure, but out of all those boxing films, how many of them featured fight scenes that looked realistic? Well, there was Raging Bull. (Sort of realistic) After Raging Bull, I give up. Even John Garfield couldn’t pull it off in 1947’s Body and Soul. And John Garfield was

Angelina Jolie to Retire from Hollywood?

Angelina Jolie to Retire from Hollywood?
(NSI News Source Info) November 15, 2008: Is Angelina Jolie planning on retiring from Hollywood? The actress, who plays the role of mom a lot more often these days than she does those on screen. Now the star of The Changeling says she's planning on "fading away" from movies and Hollywood in order to focus on her family. Jolie said something similar to this a ways back before she was pregnant with her twins. Hey-she likes being a mom! She said she'd be taking a break, but it was short-lived. Now, however, with six kids between her and partner Brad Pitt, Jolie says she may be taking the ultimate break. Jolie isn't planning on leaving the scene for good, however.
Jolie says that being a working mom is tough--juggling a career and kids is never easy, but that she would be enticed back to the film industry for a choice role. I'm assuming this does not mean another stab at the horrible Tomb Raider franchise. Being a celebrity is more of a pain in the butt than anything these days, and it sounds like she'd rather be free of that too. Well, I got news, honey--once a celeb, always a celeb, especially if you're one with six kids and looking to have or adopt even more. And if your baby daddy is BRAD PITT.
Some would say Ange should leave work all together and be only a mom. Others would say she shouldn't turn her back on the working world as it will look bad for women trying to make it in the workplace. Will Ange really fade away from the limelight? I doubt it. The appeal is too strong, and she's already used to that lifestyle. Still, I can appreciate her wanting to put her family first. It seems her father, John Voight, never did, hence their estrangement. Good luck to you, Ange! If anyone can identify with your struggle, it's the parents at ParentDish (and our readers!). Having kids is hard, but it's the best, even when trying to balance family with work.

Dumped Abhishek Awasthi dating new comer Shradha Sharma

Dumped Abhishek Awasthi dating new comer Shradha Sharma
(NSI News Source Info) November 15, 2008: Yes it’s now official: Rakhi Sawant has dumped her boyfriend of many years and even thrown him out of her house. Abhishek Awasthi has shifted to a new pad in the far suburbs of Mumbai at Malad.
Both Rakhi and Abhishek have officially admitted to the breakup. While the news was all over the place, the big news is that Abhishek Awasthi has on the rebound started dating newcomer Shradha Sharma and is promoting her all over the place.
In a view to avenge his muse – apparently it was Abhishek who taught Rakhi Sawant to dance – Abhishek is introducing Shradha to all his contacts and friends in the industry. He is also coaching her in perfecting the art of stage performances and hopes someday that “they” would defeat Rakhi in a dramatic, televised performance.
According to sources, Abhishek has vowed to avenge the humiliation meted out to him by Rakhi – insiders say she used him to her advantage – whether it was when she was in Bigg Boss or when she wanted a choreographer to teach her the nuances of Bollywood dancing at the last minute. The couple used their personal relationship to gain media and audience sympathy time and again over the last two years.
In interviews to the media, Rakhi who was in Dubai has claimed that Abhishek “used” her to get work. Sources in the industry say that they “both used each other to get publicity and work”. They were the perfect ‘nautanki’ couple.
Till recently, Abhishek was the “choreographer” behind the scenes who “made” the dancing machine that Rakhi Sawant is today. However, trouble started brewing when Abhishek tried to get out of Rakhi’s shadow and come out on his own.
An event and celebrity manager who knew the couple since they started working together said that problems between the two started during the “Yeh hein Jalwa” show on 9X. Rakhi and Abhishek were pitted against each other in two different teams. Rakhi expected her beau to “loose” but Abhi – as he is known to friends – wouldn’t let down his team and gave Rakhi’s team a fight to the finish. That’s when all hell broke loose. Apparently Rakhi was miffed that Abhi wouldn’t tell him strategies that his team was using.
Rakhi accused Abhishek of having “changed”. Yes he was no longer the ’spot boy choreographer’. He had emerged into his own propelled by his talent and skills. Rakhi of course didn’t like this. Meanwhile thanks to Rakhi’s constant nagging Abhishek was drawn to Shradha Sharma and began seeing her often. He also bought himself a new flat at Malad – initially as an investment. But, as sources say, the new flat was the love nest for Shradha who used to visit him often. This was the final nail in the coffin. Rakhi could never stand her boyfriend cheating on her or giving another woman more attention.
The two are now having a wild affair. They party together and even go out for long drives together late into the night.
Shradha Sharma was unavailable for comment, while Abhishek claims that he is single and not dating anyone.
Abhishek Awasthi is from a small town in Northern India and his first brush with Bollywood was the Zee ‘Cine Stars ki Khoj’. Rakhi is from interior Maharashtra and her father was in the police force.
Abhi met Rakhi during a routine dance practice session in one of the dance rehearsal halls around Adarsh Nagar and Oshiwara. Rakhi was looking for a “personal choreographer” who could also double up as her spot boy, bodyguard, assistant etc. Abhishek was looking for name, fame, work and of course money. It was a marriage of convenience and the two got together like birds of a feather. Eventually out of necessity they began sharing a roof. (Normally dance rehearsals go on late into the night depending on availability of rehearsal halls in the crowded Oshiwara area.)
Abhishek is now seen in his first fiction show ‘Jugni Chali Jalandhar’ on Sab TV. Rakhi Sawant has moved on and is working in a Yash Raj movie with Shahid Kapur and Rani Mukerji where she will be seen doing an item song with hottie Sherlyn Chopra.

Versace makes its 1st fashion show in Beijing

Versace makes its 1st fashion show in Beijing
(NSI News Source Info) November 15, 2008: Chinese actor Jet Li answers the press during the 2009 Versace Spring & Summer Fashion Show in Beijing, China, Nov. 13, 2008. Versace made its first fashion show in Beijing, and held a charty auction during the show for disaster areas hit by May 12 earthquake, along with Chinese actor Jet Li's One Foundation.

Models display creations during the 2009 Versace Spring & Summer Fashion Show in Beijing, China, Nov. 13, 2008

Models display creations during the 2009 Versace Spring & Summer Fashion Show in Beijing, China, Nov. 13, 2008

A model displays a creation during the 2009 Versace Spring & Summer Fashion Show in Beijing, China, Nov. 13, 2008

A model displays a creation during the 2009 Versace Spring & Summer Fashion Show in Beijing, China, Nov. 13, 2008.

A model displays a creation during the 2009 Versace Spring & Summer Fashion Show in Beijing, China, Nov. 13, 2008. Versace made its first fashion show in Beijing, and held a charty auction during the show for disaster areas hit by May 12 earthquake, along with Chinese actor Jet Li's One Foundation

International Folk Music Festival kicks off in Kathmandu

International Folk Music Festival kicks off in Kathmandu
(NSI News Source Info) November 15, 2008: Some 150 artists from Norway, India, Malawi, Nepal, Palestine and South Africa took part in the during the International Folk Music Festival in Kathmandu, capital of Nepal, on Nov. 7, 2008.

Nepalese ethnic cultural group from mid-western Nepal perform traditional dance "Kaura Naach" during the International Folk Music Festival in Kathmandu, capital of Nepal, on Nov. 7, 2008.
Two women of a Nepalese ethnic cultural group smile during the , capital of Nepal, on Nov. 7, 2008. To mark 100 years of music recording in Nepal and 25 years of commercialization of Nepali music through the establishment of Music Nepal, the Nepal Music Center (NMC) is hosting a four-day international folk music festival in Kathmandu from Nov. 5. Some 150 artists from Norway, India, Malawi, Nepal, Palestine and South Africa took part in the festival.

Fashion: 'Priyanka texted Babe, you blew my mind!'

Fashion: 'Priyanka texted Babe, you blew my mind!'
(NSI News Source Info) November 15, 2008: When director Madhur Bhandarkar came to Mugdha Godse with the script of Fashion, the model was unsure about how her character would make an impact, considering the stronger roles for co-actors Priyanka Chopra and Kangana Ranaut. “But that was before I read the script. Once I was through, I knew Janet’s character had as much scope to perform. If I did it with honesty, it could get me a little appreciation,” says Godse. In the movie, she plays the second-rung model, Janet, married to a gay designer.

Bollywood actor Samir Soni, producer Ronnie Screwala, actors Priyanka Chopra, Mughda Godse, Arjan Bajwa and director Madhur Bhandarkar celebrate the success of their movie "Fashion" in Mumbai November 14, 2008. Picture taken November 14, 2008

It has been a week since the movie released, but the “little appreciation” that Godse had hoped for, has snowballed into generous accolades. “There’s been a steady stream of congratulatory messages and phone calls. Priyanka texted ‘Babe, you blew my mind!’ at three in the morning, and I was totally floored. The one person who is vindicated is Madhur sir. Everytime he told me I had it in me to make it as an actor, I would tell him not to speculate. Now, with each review that I have received, he has been telling me ‘I told you so’,” she giggles.
For Godse, the most touching praise has come from her family. “My family is quite critical of me, so I was apprehensive of their reaction. They went for first-day-first-show, when I was still promoting the film in Dubai. My sister later told me they were left speechless by my performance,” she says.
There have been quite a few offers since the movie released, but the model-turned-actor says she will only announce them once she signs on the dotted line. “As of now, I have signed with Percept Picture Company for three of their films,” she says. Modelling, she says, will definitely be on the backburner for the time being. “Fashion’s given me opportunities which I would be stupid to ignore. It’s not as if I am giving up modelling completely, but I’ll do only select shows,” she says.

Bollywood Actress Dia Mirza At Fashion Show

Bollywood Actress Dia Mirza At Fashion Show
(NSI News Source Info) November 15, 2008: Bollywood actress Dia Mirza (front) with models present creations from Indian designer Rocky S during a fashion show at the 'Chivas in Fashion Tour 08' in New Delhi November 14, 2008.

Bollywood Actress Dia Mirza at 'Chivas in Fashion Tour 08' in New Delhi November 14, 2008

Hollywood-Bollywood collaboration a welcome change

Hollywood-Bollywood collaboration a welcome change

(NSI News Source Info) November 15, 2008: IT WAS a preplanned move, which reaped enormous gains for the Sony Group, when it launched the latest 007 Bond movie ’Quantum of Solace’, in India, before it was released anywhere in the world. The collection was 170 million within a week of its launch, a sufficient proof of outreach of the Indian cinema amongst the fans.
Interestingly enough, Hollywood has been a cause of concern to Bollywood for a quite a long time. Its impact may be assessed with the release of the latest Bond film. The pirated version of the film has sneaked into the grey market and DVDs are selling like hot cakes. However, with the film raking in such huge collection, it is clear that the Hindi movie viewer is slowly but surely shifting towards the sophisticated western drama on reel.
This alone doesn’t give us a true indication about success. Different cine-production players have come together to give the films a new lease of life.
Recently, the Yashraj banner released an animated film ‘Roadside Romeo’ directed by Jugal Hansraj. The Indian production house’s collaboration with Warner Brothers provided it the cutting edge technology in animation.
If Roadside Romeo won the best animation feature film award the entire credit does not go to the director Hansraj for creating the best animation movie.
The enthusiasm from this success is not confined to Hindi cinema only. It has spread it tentacles to regional cinemas as well.
One hopes that with such tie-ups, Indian viewers would experience world-class standard. At the same time such classy films should not be confined to the metropolitan cities alone.

Past Bollywood divas shining on idiot box

Past Bollywood divas shining on idiot box
(NSI News Source Info) November 15, 2008: Past glamorous star actresses of Bollywood are now shining bright on the small screen. Raveena Tandon who was last seen in Sandwich (2006), Mahima Chaudhary last seen in Kudiyon Ka Hain Zamana(2007), Karishma Kapoor last in Mere Jeevan Saathi (2005) and Sonali Bendre in Kal Ho Na Ho (2003) today are seen judging top running reality shows on TV. While Mahima Chaudhary is judging Jalwa 4 2 ka 1, Karishma Kapoor is judging Nach Baliye 4, Sonali Bendre is doing Indian Idol and Raveena Tandon is the popular celebrity judge of Chak De.
These married divas and now mommies prefer television over silver screen as TV does not require much commitment, out door shoots and time as movie do which makes it easier for them to balance work with family.
“The television shows for which I am currently working requires me to shoot just once a week. It starts from 2 p.m. by that time my baby is fast asleep. I come back in night. So it’s just half day away from home. Secondly, it is very exciting to work in a reality show as these are the flavors of the time. Reality shows are everywhere. It is nice to be a part of the show. It requires less of time also as compared to those of Bollywood films. Making a film takes a lot of time. If you have shooting, then you have dubbing, promotions and all. In that case I can’t give time to my baby and family,” shares Mahima Chaudhary.
But is it the only reason these glam-dolls have turned their attention towards the idiot box. Isn’t a big pay package associated with these reality shows one of the main reasons?
“Over the years the pay packages of both the television industry and Bollywood have increased incredibly. Earlier actors were paid just for movies or television. Now one can fetch extra revenue apart from one’s basics. Performing on shows, marriages, endorsements etc fetches you good money. Now there are events coming up. One invites you as well as pays you for attending. I remember going for Johnny Walker F1. I enjoyed my evening out there. ICL and IPL are also no less than television shows. They are in a way reality shows only,” quips Mahima.
Gorgeous Karishma expresses a different reason of opting for TV, “I have enjoyed dancing in the movies, but for the first time I was getting an opportunity to judge a talent hunt show on television! Besides, the concept of NB4 is really unique, apart from it being a trendsetter in its genre. The fact that there is no script makes it all the more fun.”
But working in television doesn’t mean that Mahima has stopped dreaming of displaying her acting skills on the big screen, “I am really happy being in television, but I am still waiting for a good movie with a good script. I don’t dream of a good director’s movie, I dream of a good script. If I get one then definitely would take it up. . I am also talking to a few people about hosting shows. Let’s see when that works out.”
Mahima maybe still looking up towards the film producers but Raveena Tandon looks satisfied with her current work. “Doing TV is even easier for me than doing films because I can synchronise my clock according to Rasha’s (her daughter) schedules. In any case, she’s the least problematic child. Not at all cranky like her mother,” says Raveena, who has two kids.
Well, we wish these glam-dolls continue to manage their time between work and family so we can get entertained by them. For those who still wanna try their luck in films, we wish them all the very best. But at the same time they would have to take special care of their figure keeping in mind the latest size-zero trend of Bollywood.

Kardashian Sisters and Kristin Cavallari: Bikini Babes

Kardashian Sisters and Kristin Cavallari: Bikini Babes
(NSI News Source Info) November 15, 2008: As if the Victoria’s Secret supermodels’ presence wasn’t enough, Kim Kardashian, her sister Kourtney and their good friend Kristin Cavallari were all spotted out soaking up the rays in Miami, Florida on Friday afternoon (November 14).
Turning heads as they walked the beach and relaxed on lounge chairs, the gorgeous trio strapped on their itsy-bitsy bikinis, posing for photos at the new Fountainbleau Hotel on South Beach.

Meanwhile, Kim recently filmed a guest spot for the TV show “How I Met Your Mother” - in which she co-stars alongside fellow reality star guests Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt.
“Everyone on the set was extremely kind and so fun to work with!” Kim wrote on her Web site. “Bob Saget, who is the show’s narrator, and cast member Jason Segel were there as well as my own mother, who everyone got to meet. Ha!”
Talking about the experience, the 28-year-old brunette beauty tells, “I am on the cover of a weekly magazine and I come to life! So, I had to film it all on a green screen! I can’t wait to see the show. I really had a great time and hope this opens up other opportunities for me in the acting world.”

Victoria’s Secret Supermodels Strap On Their Bikinis

Victoria’s Secret Supermodels Strap On Their Bikinis
(NSI News Source Info) November 15, 2008: Following a fun-filled yacht outing earlier in the day, a handful of Victoria’s Secret’s sexiest sweeties strapped on their swimwear for a boardwalk photo session on Friday (November 14).
Marisa Miller, Doutzen Kroes, Karolina Kurkova, Miranda Kerr and Alessandra Ambrosio were among the lovely ladies taking part in the shoot, with all of the models donning tiny white bikinis as they posed arm-in-arm.

All of the Florida festivities come as a prequel to the 2008 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, which will be taped at Fontainebleau on Saturday (November 15).
Once everything’s put together behind-the-scenes, the show will debut to the public when it’s broadcast on Wednesday, December 3 at 10/9C on CBS.

Family dramas losing sheen in Bollywood

Family dramas losing sheen in Bollywood
(NSI News Source Info) November 15, 2008 - New Delhi: It's a genre that gave Indian audiences mega hits down the decades like Bobby, Silsila, Pyar Jhukta Nahin, Maine Pyar Kiya and Beta. But the family drama, once a surefire way to succeed in Bollywood, now seems to be fading out."This is a time when filmmakers are experimenting with other subjects and themes. Nobody wants to stick to a particular genre," director Kunal Kohli who has enthralled audiences with films like Hum Tum and Fanaa, said.Film critic Taran Adarsh said: "People are making films on more contemporary subjects as they feel there are already so many family-oriented shows on TV; so why would the audience like to watch the same thing all over again on the silver screen?"There were Gharana, Khandan and Pyaar Ka Saagar in the 1960s. In the 70s, which were dominated by Amitabh Bachchan's action movies, films like Kabhi Kabhie, Abhiman and Parichay also made their mark.Actors like Jeetendra, Dharmendra, Hema Malini, Rekha, Jaya Bachchan gave stellar performances in family dramas.The mid-1980s and 90s were a time when this genre ruled the roost with films like Silsila, Chandni, Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak, Pyar Jhukta Nahin, Dil and many more.In comparison, very few full-fledged family dramas are being made now. Director Imtiaz Ali who was behind the blockbuster Jab We Met said: "It's not entirely true that family dramas are missing. It's just that they have changed form."They are not necessarily in the same format. We can say that now what we get to see in certain films is the new improved version of family dramas," he said.Top Bollywood production houses such as Dharma Productions and Yash Raj Films used to be known for romantic sagas on the big screen. Karan Johar made a name for himself with films like Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham and Kuch Kuch Hota Hai.But they too have diverted their attention to individualistic and action-oriented storylines. In an effort to exert a pull on youngsters, filmmakers are dealing with topics that appeal more to Gen X. Films like Dhoom, Chak De! India and Dostana among others are examples that hint at the diversion from family-oriented themes.However, there are still a few who believe in the power of the genre. "It is a cycle. At a given point of time, one type of films are made more than others. It's all about the trend. But I know for sure that the trend of family dramas will come back," feels Ravi Chopra, the director of the hit family drama Baghban.Kaushik Ghatak, whose debut venture Ek Vivah...Aisa Bhi, which released recently, said, "New and different kinds of films are made today, but that doesn't mean people are bored of watching family dramas. If made tastefully, they will result as box- office grossers.""Audiences still like watching films which depict our values and culture," he added. Rajshri Productions, which produced Ek Vivaah...Aisa Bhi, has been a pioneer in churning out stories that reflect Indian family traditions.Under Rajshri, Sooraj Barjatya made blockbusters like Maine Pyar Kiya, Hum Aapke Hain Kaun and most recently Vivah. Indian and overseas audiences alike lauded these movies."If someone tells me that family dramas will not do well in the overseas market, I will not buy that at all. Films should be well made and will definitely be appreciated," said Ravi Chopra.Ali, who is currently working on a romantic film starring Saif Ali Khan and Deepika Padukone, agreed: "Overseas audiences get their share of western content. So they are always looking forward to stories which depict our family values."

Lamhaa to be shot in Manali now

Lamhaa to be shot in Manali now
(NSI News Source Info) November 15, 2008 - Shimla: Bollywood star Sanjay Dutt arrived at popular tourist resort of Manali in Himachal Pradesh for the shooting of director Rahul Dholakia's Lamhaa, after it was moved out of Jammu and Kashmir due to protests there. Sanjay has a busy schedule and he will be shooting at various locations for the film during his weeklong stay. His wife, Manyata, is also accompanying him. Bipasha Basu, who is playing the lead role in the film, and Rakhi Sawant are also reported to have joined other team members in Manali.A large crowd gathered at Bhuntar airport near Kullu town to receive Sanjay.Besides shooting at Naggar, known for quaint old houses, the film will have scenes of the 13,050-feet high Rohtang Pass, the gateway to Lahaul-Spiti, Solang Nullah and Patlikul.Producer Bunty Walia, who had hoped to shoot Lamhaa in the Kashmir valley, was forced to pull out his crew from the region after the shooting was disrupted more than once.

Get set to say Sorry Bhai

Get set to say Sorry Bhai
(NSI News Source Info) November 15, 2008 - Mumbai: The cast of Sorry Bhai gathered in Mumbai to talk about the film's not so conventional theme what's so different about this one, lets find out.Come fall in love with your brother's bride now is the tagline of director Onir's latest venture Sorry Bhai and as the cast of the film gathered at Mumbai's magic bar they seemed anything but sorry about this not so conventional plot. "I don't know whether the audience is ready to accept a subject like this but the film is based on a unique relationship and is something different I've tried," said Onir, director.The film explores the relationship between two brothers that goes sour when Sharman Joshi falls in love with his brother Sanjay Suri's fiance. "It is a scary situation and if I was in a situation like then I don't know what I would do," said Sharman Joshi, actor.Sorry Bhai is also Chitrangadha Singh's comeback vehicle and for someone who kick-stared with a film like Hazaaron Khwaishein her comeback had to be something as different."We have a black man sitting in a white house change is in, so why not have different films," said Chitrangada Singh.

Malaika tells about the new rock on her hand

Malaika tells about the new rock on her hand

(NSI News Source Info) November 15, 2008: Malaika Arora has been sporting a huge diamond ring on the third finger of her right hand for the last three weeks. It's the rock she had gifted herself during her birthday. Malaika admits, "I have gifted myself a diamond ring. I told Arbaaz I like it, and there will be no discussion on this. I just went and bought it."She adds, "It's my favorite ring and I can't do without it. I loved the design. Ever since I bought it I have been wearing it all the time and don't wear any other accessories on my fingers. Like Arhaan's diamond pendant I wear my ring with the diamonds all the time. I love it!"She refuses to divulge what the damage was. Her family has cautioned her against revealing the cost for income tax reasons. But it is believed that it costs over three lakh. However she hastens to add that the ring is already in the vault, "I have kept the ring at a vault. It was too large for me so I have sent it to be tightened to fit my finger. But the ring that you are talking about is not the one I bought. That's an old one." Right Malaika! Whatever you say

Kajol all set to do hubby Ajay Devgan’s film

Kajol all set to do hubby Ajay Devgan’s film

(NSI News Source Info) Mumbai - November 15, 2008: Ajay Devgan and Kajol, the sensible couple of Bollywood believe in doing serious work.

They do not display their affection publicly, like Saif and Kareena or kiss controversies but want their creative work to speak. Recently, Ajay Devgan announced a film that would have wife Kajol in the lead role – a cause of jubilation for their fans.

Ajay Devgan is riding waves of success for his recent ‘Golmaal Returns’, and the zeal is catching on. His next directorial venture after ‘U Me Aur Hum’, is his one of the most ambitious projects till date.

The actor wants his film (unnamed) to be technically correct and he is leaving no stones unturned to achieve perfection. Ajay is ensuring that there are not many characters in the film and the film doesn’t end up appearing slow and dull like his former attempt. Loads of best wishes for the lovely couple!

When Namitha lay on top of her male co-star

When Namitha lay on top of her male co-star

(NSI News Source Info) November 15, 2008: The undisputed sex bomb from south is playing a very steamy role in an upcoming bilingual film.The film called ‘Jaganmohini’ has Namitha romancing the hero Raja. The movie, a passionate tale of love and revenge, is a remake of the old Narasimha Raju's 70s movie of the same title that had Jayamalini in lead role.‘Jaganmohini’ has many lovemaking scenes between Namitha and Raja. The only trouble is that Namitha is a voluptuous and curvy actress whose sex appeal has been the main asset in her career, while Raja is a hero of a short and small built even though he may be muscular.
While performing one lovemaking scene Namitha had to reportedly lie on top of Raja and provoke him. According to reports from the sets, when Namitha actually lay on top of Raja, the guy could not emote the scene because he was feeling the pressure of Namitha’s weight. Or may be he was plain nervous at seeing the sexiest actress of the south on top of him.Whatever the reason, Raja became the butt of everybody’s jokes on the sets after that incident.Namitha says the lovemaking scenes in the film have been shot aesthetically.‘Jaganmohini’ is being made both in Telugu and Tamil.

'Raaz - The Mystery Continues' explores the evil within

'Raaz - The Mystery Continues' explores the evil within

(NSI News Source Info) November 15, 2008: A mega budget supernatural thriller from the Bhatt camp, Raaz - The Mystery Continues explores the evil within the human psyche.The movie’s not exactly a sequel to Raaz but a fresh story directed by Mohit Suri . The promos of the film and its posters are splashed with dark green colour to give it the look of a spooky film.‘Raaz - The Mystery Continues’ deals with the evil side of human psyche. Mohit Suri got inspired from Indian mythology, where good and evil are interwoven in human nature. He mentioned saint Kabir, who has said that greatest evils are inside us. ‘Raaz -TMC’ is based on that concept.Mohit, who has directed five films till now for Vishesh Films, had a tough time persuading the Bhatts about the concept. Bhatts and Mohit also had a disagreement regarding the promos of the film. Mahesh Bhatt wanted dialogues in the promos, whereas Mohit just wanted thrilling visuals and haunting musical score, which, according to him, would have made a better impact.
With the screening of Fashion , the 10-seconds trailer of ‘Raaz –TMC’ was shown. And everybody was left awestruck with the trailer. Kangana Ranaut again plays a supermodel in this film with Emraan Hashmi and Adhyayan as supporting cast. This year has been good for horror flicks, with movies like Phoonk and 1920 doing well and setting a trend for horror films in Bollywood.The promos and posters of ‘Raaz-TMC’ have already created enough buzz and sensation. The movie is slated for January 23 release and is in post production stages now.

Murdoch’s Star rising in India’s regional TV market

Murdoch’s Star rising in India’s regional TV market
(NSI News Source Info) November 15, 2008: Rupert Murdoch’s Star television moved towards becoming a leading broadcaster across India by tapping into the fast-growing local language TV stations in the south.
News Corp’s Asian television group announced a joint venture with Jupiter Entertainment, a media group founded by Rajeev Chandrasekhar, the Indian telecoms entrepreneur.
The venture will pool channels broadcasting in Kannada, Telugu and Malayalam languages with Vijay, Star’s small Tamil entertainment channel.
“This is a game-changing partnership for Star,” said Paul Aiello, chief executive. Despite reaching 60m viewers with its Hindi and English programming, he added, “frankly, we’d not taken advantage of the opportunity provided by the regionalisation of viewership and advertising”.
Advertising revenues for regional language broadcasters are forecast to increase by 20 per cent a year for the next five to seven years, Mr Aiello said, compared with a growth rate of about 12-14 per cent for other broadcasters.
Mr Murdoch, who acquired control of Star more than a decade ago, has highlighted India as one of the main areas of focus for News Corp as a darker outlook for advertising and consumer spending in the US and Europe prompted a rapid cut to the company’s profit forecasts this month.
James Murdoch, chief executive of News Corp Europe and Asia, told the Monaco Media Forum on Thursday that India would not be immune to economic pressures, and predicted that at least one rival in the highly competitive Indian market could “capitulate”.
However, he said India would be a core market for News Corp, which intended to keep investing in local language broadcasting.
Between 50 and 80 per cent of TV viewing in the four southern regions – ­Kerala, Karnataka, Andra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu – is in local languages, ­presenting a challenge to advertisers seeking a national audience.
“The fastest growth in cable and satellite broadcasting is coming from southern India,” said Uday Shankar, chief executive of Star India.
Star would be able to adapt its Hindi programming for the region, he said.
Mr Aiello would not disclose the financial terms of the joint venture, but said Star and Jupiter would make “additional investments” to launch new channels in southern India.
The two companies had also begun looking at possible co-operation in film production, he added.
In the past year, Star has launched general entertainment channels in Marathi and Bengali, while expanding its Bollywood film activities.

Dostana won't offend anybody, says Karan Johar

Dostana won't offend anybody, says Karan Johar

(NSI News Source Info) November 15, 2008: Karan Johar says there is nothing offensive about his new production Dostana which has been directed by Tarun Mansukhani .The movie has kicked up a lot of curiosity with its numerous gay jokes and its oomph quotient, courtesy John Abraham , Priyanka Chopra or Shilpa Shetty . It is being feared that the film may end up offending the gay community. But Karan Johar allays such fears.“We've made sure not to offend any group or community. I'd never make a film that would offend anybody. 'Dostana' has a great look and it's a clean happy watch. It's fun and new," Karan is quoted by a news agency.
The movie has John and Abhishek Bachchan pretending as gays to be able to rent an apartment where a sexy girl lives. Things get complicated when they fall for her but she thinks they are gays.“The chemistry among Abhishek, John and Priyanka is fantastic,” says Karan.Karan also added that this is not the first time he has used gay jokes in his film.“As for the gay jokes, I think it's time for everyone to wake up to reality. I had gay jokes in Kal Ho Na Ho and no one was offended," Karan stressed.‘Dostana’ has hit the theatres today.

Dang's visit to India

Dang's visit to India
(NSI News Source Info) November 14, 2008: Our close family friends from Hong Kong days (Those were the days my friend, We thought they will never end....) Indrash & Indra Dang from Melbourne., Australia were in New Delhi recently. At a social event they met Bollywood celebrities Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor. (Photo: Courtsey Indrash Dang)

Seen are Kareena Kapoor, Saif Ali Khan and Indra Dang

Here are the lyrics....Those Were The Days

Those were the days my friend

We thought they'd never end

We'd sing and dance forever and a day

We'd live the life we choose

We'd fight and never lose

For we were young and sure to have our way.

La la la la...

Those were the days, oh yes those were the days

Kareena To Be Amrita's Bridesmaid

Kareena To Be Amrita's Bridesmaid
(NSI News Source Info) November 14, 2008: The buzz is that the 'Khan'daan hanger-on Amrita Arora is fed up being in the forever struggling mode (only doing movies with family and friends like Kareena) and is set to get married soon.
Close friends of the actress has claimed that this time it's for real and unlike the short term serial dating she did with the likes of Kamaal Khan, Ashmit Patel, Upen Patel and Usman Afzal.The object of Amu's affection is Hyderabadi businessman Shakeel Ladak this time round.
The big fat wedding is supposed to take place in March 2009 but she's not willing to confirm or deny the news. She maintains that she'll divulge things when everything is fine. Maybe she's getting superstitious and too possessive about the whole thing.
The word is that banquet halls are being hunted for. There is supposed to be a grand reception in Mumbai, while the marriage itself will be a beautiful church wedding in Goa – something that Amrita has always wanted. There is a strong chance that best friend Kareena is set to turn bridesmaid at the Goan do. This one is sure to be a true blue filmi shaadi!

Tiff shoots between Aamir and his girl

Tiff shoots between Aamir and his girl
(NSI News Source Info) November 14, 2008: Mr. Perfectionist – that's how the entire town pronounces Aamir Khan. Nothing fallible slips out of his sight and his mantra 'Discipline et Ne plus ultra' has been peaking him to greater heights. 'Nay – that shouldn't hit others arduously' says one of the sources in town.
Aamir Khan's Ghajini girl Asin seems to be so distressed after certain extent. South Indian actress headed all the way to Bollywood with her debut flick 'Ghajini' that's still under filming. It's been 2 years so far and Aamir Khan has imposed some restrictions that stop her from moving ahead.
The actor had instructed Asin not to present her portfolios to any producers (this happened as she signed up for Vipul Shah's London Dreams). Actress in turn had replied that despites meeting leading producers in the town, she is unable to showcase her portfolios.
Nevertheless, Aamir Khan just smiled uttering his words; these pedagogies are to be followed till December 25 as the film Ghajini hits screens on that occasion. Also she is not supposed to speak about this film to any of the media channels and the same instruction has been applied on other actress Jiah Khan too.

The Kapoor 'Bahurani' Deepika Snubs Saif

The Kapoor 'Bahurani' Deepika Snubs Saif
(NSI News Source Info) November 14, 2008: We've heard of actors giving a limb for a role. But an eye? That's precisely what would have happened if she had tried to look any more Chinese for Chandni Chowk To China.
"I don't know how or why Nikhil Advani though of a South Indian with big round eyes to play Chinese. But he did cast me. I play a half-Chinese and half-Indian.. And to get my eyes to look less big and rounded and more slanted some special makeup artistes were brought in.
They suggested tapes to stick around my eyes."Deepika then consulted her doctors. "And they cut the idea down in time. My doctors said if I stick those tapes on my eyes for twelve hours a day the shape of my face would change forever and I'd end up looking Chinese for the rest of my life. So instead we got my makeup artiste Mallika Bhatt to do my eye makeup in such a way that my eyes looked slanted."
Deepika plays her second double role in Chandni Chowk… after Om Shanti Om. "Yes my second in a year. Two of out my three roles so far are double roles. It just gives me that much more confidence as an actor to know that directors think I can carry off a completely Indian and a Chinese look."So why did she do one-third of a film between two double roles? For love?"You mean did I do Bachna Ae Haseenon for Ranbir? Certainly not! I wasn't even seeing him when I signed the film. And I'm definitely mature enough to keep my professional and personal life apart…
No one can take advantage of me emotionally and professionally. If I wanted to work with Ranbir I'd be doing half a dozen films with him. We keep away from each others' work space and connect whenever we both have the time.But we've worked in only one film and we're in the process of signing another. I've liked the script. But other details need to be worked out."Ever since Deepika Padukone did her second film with two other female leads she has had people asking her why she agreed to do it.
"A lot of people feel it was a mistake for me to do a film with two other heroines when I had done a solo-heroine film with Shah Rukh Khan at the start of my career. But I was very clear that I wanted to do it the minute I heard my part. And I'm glad I did it."From now on however, it's solo-heroine projects for Deepika. "I'm looking primarily at solo- heroine films unless I'm as excited about a multi-heroine project as I was about Bachna…."
Did she like herself in Bachna? "OSO was a challenge because I had to play someone from the 1970s. Bachna… I had to play today's character. For me the exciting part is when people say I was good in Bachna… in spite of having so little to do.When established actors tell me that I look good and can act I feel happy."
Deepika believes she's not in the industry to make friends. In fact Saif Ali Khan who shot Imtiaz Ali's film with her in London says she's professional and aloof."I'm more happy doing my shots and keeping to myself. Specially when I am shooting so far away from home I'd rather be on my own. Shooting this film was special because Imtiaz Ali is not a director who directs from the monitor.
He actually stands on the sets and gives instruction.He okays a take there and then. I'd be unsure of a shot but he'd okay it immediately. That's a change. Like in Bachna Ae Haseenon, I play very contemporary character in Imtiaz's film. It's avery today character."Deepika rubbishes rumours of Rishi Kapoor calling her 'Bahurani'.
"I don't know where such things come from. I worked with him in London for Imtiaz'a film and we were thorough professionals. He was as warm towards me as he was with the rest of the crew.I don't have too many scenes with him. But yes we interacted for a longer time in London than we ever did in Mumbai. He's a very caring person. He made sure everyone had khana on time.
When he arrives and leaves the set he greets everyone with equal warmth. We were working 12 hours a day. However my time after after work is mine."Deepika now shoots for Imtiaz in Delhi, and then the film is over."I'm only 22. And I'm very happy with the work that I'm doing, " is her parting shot.

Ami Suzuki shows warmth in new daytime drama

Ami Suzuki shows warmth in new daytime drama
(NSI News Source Info) TOKYO — November 14, 2008: Singer Ami Suzuki, 26, takes on the challenge of portraying a hearing-impaired character in “Love Letter,” a new TV drama celebrating the 40th anniversary of TBS’s “Ai no gekijou” daytime dramas. Suzuki plays the lead role of a young woman growing up, who communicates through sign language. She travels to Shodo Island in Kagawa Prefecture, where she falls in love for the first time and makes lifelong friendships.
Suzuki expressed her concerns and aspirations when she said “I want to express my true feelings through sign language. With music, I can express things like love clearly through the words, but on stage I have to convey things that are not expressed easily, so that’s tough. But I think I’ll be able to convey the warmth of people through sign language.”The drama starts on Nov 24 and is on weekdays at 1 p.m.

Moe Oshikiri appears in kimono fashion show in Kyoto

Moe Oshikiri appears in kimono fashion show in Kyoto
(NSI News Source Info) KYOTO — November 14, 2008: Model Moe Oshikiri, 28, on Tuesday appeared at a kimono fashion show held in Kyoto. It was her first public appearance since being injured in a traffic accident a few weeks ago.
Oshikiri herself designed some wedding kimonos for the collection and wore three of them during the show. “I tried to express the uniqueness of Japanese women through pure, gorgeous and beautiful bridal gowns,” she said.

Anne Hathaway is Hollywood's new 'it-girl'

Anne Hathaway is Hollywood's new 'it-girl'
(NSI News Source Info) November 14, 2008: 'Rachel Getting Married' gave the 26-year-old actress a huge boost.
" 'IT' is that quality possessed by some which draws all otherswith its magnetic force. With 'IT' you win all men if you are a woman -- all women if you are a man. 'IT' can be a quality of the mind as well as a physical attraction."That's how English romance novelist Elinor Glyn defined the term "it-girl," a phrase that entered the public imagination with the 1927 film "It," based on one of her novels and starring the original it-girl, Clara Bow.
Hollywood is perpetually on the hunt for this elusive quality, this blend of sexuality and innocence, of materialistic chutzpah and good values, of swagger and sincerity, that tends to sell tickets. As the Cameron Diazes, Drew Barrymores and Gwyneth Paltrows age out of the ingénue role, a new crop of young actresses has emerged -- a group that includes Amy Adams, Michelle Williams, Scarlett Johansson and Keira Knightley, contenders to the crown that for years belonged to Julia Roberts, perhaps the last woman movie star who everyone agrees actually guaranteed attendance in the theaters.At the moment much of Hollywood is chattering about pretty Anne Hathaway, another dark-eyed, dark-haired beauty, who was plucked out of relative obscurity by Roberts' own star-maker, "Pretty Woman" director Garry Marshall. Disney was explicitly looking for the next Audrey Hepburn when Marshall cast this New Jersey-raised actress, with one short-lived TV series to her credit, as the lead in the 2001 hit franchise, "The Princess Diaries." Seven years later, the 26-year-old Hathaway has finally been transformed into the it-girl of the moment, with a string of commercial hits to her name, and heat fueled by her unexpected but thoroughly wrenching performance as an addict on furlough from rehab for her sister's wedding in "Rachel Getting Married." Already, Hathaway is getting Oscar buzz.And she's getting the sympathy vote. Ironically enough, there's often nothing that endears a star to her audience more than love's travails, a bad boyfriend or two.Hathaway's Italian boyfriend of four years, Raffaello Follieri, has recently been sentenced to prison for 54 months for fraud. The double whammy of on-screen and off-screen despair has curiously combined to give Hathaway heft and maturity, making her more than just another pretty face.Late-night skewerHathaway has also deftly managed the media circus. Although it-girls inevitably magnetize attention, it's not every starlet who's forced to explain herself to such august pop culture pashas as David Letterman, who recently grilled Hathaway about her personal life.Dressed demurely in black, Hathaway tried joking, "As far as relationships crashing and burning, I did pretty great. Scorch that earth." But being Letterman, he wouldn't desist, asking her questions such as, "Was there ever stuff missing out of your purse?" She mostly laughed, except for when she hid her face in her hands, literally trying to shield herself from his comic barrage.In addition to Letterman, Hathaway recently did "Saturday Night Live," and pluckily served up quotes about her romantic train wreck for cover stories in Entertainment Weekly, W and, one presumes, the upcoming issue of Vogue, which should hit newsstands about the time that academy members start thinking about their Oscar ballots.Vanity Fair offered up a pretty good vivisection of her jet-set love affair with Follieri, and it "made her more interesting," notes one top talent agent. "There is something about the poor girl, the ones that can never find the right love interest. It's part of the type, if you look back through history."Indeed, although film historian Janine Basinger recoils at the thought that audiences enjoy seeing their cinematic icons suffer, she does note that a little glimpse of real vulnerability can burnish a star's allure. "There is some thinking that it makes all the women identify with her. Raise your hand if you've ever had a bad boyfriend. One of the appeals for a female star is a sense of vulnerability or being human, of not being greater than the rest of us, of not being detached from us because they're more beautiful or have better clothes. Historically, we like women stars like June Allyson or , who seem human."Our stars don't have to be perfect. They just have to be imperfect in a way we can tolerate, and that's unpredictable and related to how we see them on-screen."Of course, Hollywood also appreciates Hathaway's growing box-office clout. Insiders peg her price per movie between $5 million and $10 million, and Hathaway's seeming imperfections dovetail nicely with what has become her commercial niche, the girl-power comedy. Most major women stars -- including Roberts, Goldie Hawn, Meryl Streep (or Miley Cyrus or any of the tween stars) -- have risen to glory with a devoted female fan base.For young women, the greater fantasy is not finding a man but finding yourself, becoming the person you were destined to be. (That's the real theme of "Titanic," perhaps the biggest chick flick of all time.)Committed to roleFox 2000 chief Elizabeth Gabler recalls Hathaway pitching herself for "The Devil Wears Prada," which, at that very early stage in the game, didn't have Streep attached to play the viperous fashion magazine editor."She was absolutely committed to getting the role. She gave us script notes on the third act," says Gabler. "Annie was feeling that her character would walk away [from her assistant's life]. She is in Paris, and has a changed perspective on life." The studio wound up using a version of this idea in the film, and ultimately cast Hathaway in the part.More comedies are coming down the pike starring Hathaway, including "Bride Wars," a female version of the burgeoning bromance genre, about best friends (Hathaway and Kate Hudson) who inadvertently turn into battling bridezillas; "The Fiancé," about a woman who wants to dump her fiancé much to her parents' chagrin; and a sports-comedy in the vein of "Broadcast News" featuring Hathaway as an aspiring and definitively spunky sportscaster.As one studio executive noted, Hathaway is practically the only twentysomething woman whom a studio would comfortably stake a romantic comedy on -- and she's still about half the price of a more established phenomenon like Reese Witherspoon.What's most notable about Hathaway is that she isn't Lindsay Lohan, or any of the other teen stars who've crashed and burned on their way to becoming grown-ups. And she has surprised people, even insiders, with the depth of her talent."We've all seen her do a number of things," says Sony Classics President Michael Barker. His studio released "Rachel Getting Married." "She has a very mainstream-actress, star personality. I know my daughters have always adored her, then here comes a movie like ["Rachel"] and it shows an incredible dramatic range that a lot of people felt she didn't have. Another part has to do with her as a person. When you see her in interviews, she has a sincerity and intelligence that is infectious."Some doubtersStill, for some not already in the Anne Hathaway business, the jury is still out on whether Hathaway will ascend from it-girl to the next rung of stardom, the Mt. Olympus of Teflon mega-celebrity, where only megaliths such as Tom Cruise, Will Smith and Roberts reside.Perversely, Hollywood often judges star power on the ability to sell junk, to have such strong charisma that moviegoers will pay to see your film no matter what it is. Cruise made a hit out of "Cocktail," while Roberts, in her post-"Pretty Woman" glow, made a $100-million hit out of "Sleeping With the Enemy."At the time, Roberts' it factor was so potent that audiences clamored to bask in her mega-watt grin. But Hathaway has more of a climb ahead of her before reaching those heights. Three weeks ago, Sony released its new Hathaway pic, the supernatural thriller, "Passengers"; so far, it's earned a meager $292,000 at the domestic box office.As one agent sniffs, "If you're the it-girl, if you're Julia Roberts, anything you do would be news."

Latin Grammy fashions bold and glam

Latin Grammy fashions bold and glam

(NSI News Source Info) November 14, 2008: While the Latin Grammy Awards honored the stars of Latin music, the celebrities who walked the red carpet outside the Toyota Center on Thursday night paid tribute to their favorite Latin fashion designers.
"We, as a culture, tend do over do things," said Rodner Figueroa, style expert for Univision, wearing a slim-fitting white tuxedo by designer Carlos Campos of Honduras. "I tried to let people know you have to edit. But we are very committed to supporting our Latin designers and their work."
Singer Alejandra Guzmán dazzled the media with a peach mini dress accented with ostrich feathers created by designer Daniel Andrade of Guadalajara.
"I love designs that are shocking, sexy and beautiful," said Guzmán. At a Latin Grammy tribute to Gloria Estefan Wednesday night, Guzmán raised eyebrows with a revealing mini dress made of leather and fabric that looked much like duck tape applied to the appropriate areas. "It's very unusual." she said of the dress. "That's what I like. Not to be normal."
Singer Patricia Manterola wore a stunning black strapless lace gown by Venezuelan designer Nicolai Felizola with Gucci shoes. She said the dress was inspired by Mexican actress Maria Felix, who died in 2002.
And pixie blonde singer Kany García, who won best new artist, wore strapless purple gown by Puerto Rican designer Louis Antonio.
Unlike red-carpet events such as the Academy Awards and the Golden Globes, where Hollywood stars take the fashion spotlight, many on the red carpet Thursday night were media celebrities — not entertainers.
"The moment I saw the dress I knew that's what I wanted to wear to the Latin Grammys," said popular Univision anchor María Elena Salinas, who wore an elegant one-shoulder Valentino gown accented with crystals."It's very elegant dress. And I'm a big fan of simple elegance."
There were a few fashion flubs, such multiple Grammy winner Juanes in a faded jean jacket who zoomed passed the media only to shake hands with fans. And Flex wore a large black jacket with large skull on the back designed by Mexican designer Anjie Estima.
And there were trends — a lot of purple and skinny ties; even Houston Mayor Bill White arrived wearing a purple tie.
"The only time I think about fashion is on the red carpet," said singer David Cavasos in a blue Versace suit.
Buika, who was nominated for album of the year, was a standout in an African-inspired tube dress, shawl and headwrap.
"I wanted to bring Africa with me," she said.
John Legend, who was scheduled to perform with Juanes, wore a classic gray suit by Calvin Klein. And Gloria Estefan's pal and singer Jon Secada was in Hugo Boss.
"I love getting dressed up for these things. It's a treat," he said.

Babywoman Naomi Campbell Hits Bollywood

Babywoman Naomi Campbell Hits Bollywood
(NSI News Source Info) November 14, 2008: The high-fashion industry is no stranger to model crossover. From Carla Bruni and Agyness Deyn to fledgling actress Gemma Ward, high-profile models have long been extending their professional wings to include of music and acting. And the same is true of Naomi Campbell, though the supermodel’s singing career hasn’t exactly made waves -- ever heard of her 1995 album, babywoman? Neither had I. But now it seems Campbell is hopping back aboard the music bandwagon, and this time, heading straight for Bollywood.
According to British Vogue, “the supermodel has reportedly recorded a duet (in Hindi, no less), with Indian movie star Akshay Kumar ... for a new animated feature Jumbo, and will also star in a video to go with it.” I for one am eager to see what the supermodel, whose fur-enveloped face graces the cover of Russian Vogue this month, has in store for us. Until then, I’ll be spending some time with the supe’s aforementioned album; intriguingly titled tracks include “Ride a White Swan” and “Looks Swank (Spooky).”

Features: India’s Gangsta Girl....Hard Kaur

Features: India’s Gangsta Girl....Hard Kaur
(NSI News Source Info) November 14, 2008: The spunky lass, who grew up watching Bollywood movies, is now a part of it.
She is the first-ever female Sikh rapper and her songs are featured in hit Bollywood movies such as Singh Is Kinng. But Britain-based Hard Kaur had to overcome a mountain of objections to get where she is today.
“Some of the Asian community was not happy as this has never been done before by an Indian girl, but I wanted to prove that we women were not here just to cook, clean and make babies,” the 29-year-old Indian tells The Straits Times in an e-mail interview.
The spunky lass, whose real name is Taran Kaur Dhillon, was born in Uttar Pradesh, India. She relocated to England with her mother after her father was killed in the riots triggered by the assassination of former prime minister Indira Ghandi in 1984. “I hardly knew how to speak any English and was bullied at school,” she recalls of her early days in Birmingham.
"And now being a part of it and being respected is the biggest buzz."
But her poor grasp of the language did not stop her from falling in love with hip-hop culture and the works of her favourite rap stars such as Nas, Guru and KRS1.
“The rappers were saying what they wanted to, wearing what they wanted to, and I thought it was great. It was a form of street art and it gave rappers a voice to tell stories of people’s struggles. I wanted to challenge myself to see if I could do the same,” she says.
Besides female empowerment and partying, she also tackles social issues such as women’s rights and domestic violence in English, Punjabi and Hindi songs.
She built her reputation by performing at open-mic events and challenging other rappers in ad-libbed freestyle ‘battles’.
In 1995, she started releasing her own singles, which were warmly received by the Asian music fraternity in England. Last year, she released her debut album, Supawoman, which a BBC reviewer described as “an energetic offering from a gifted singer/songwriter”.
Not long after that, she played at major festivals like Glastonbury and opened shows for pop stars such as Justin Timberlake and superstar producer Pharrell of The Neptunes.
Bollywood came a-calling last year and the producers of the movie Johnny Gaddaar used her songs in the soundtrack. Other movies such as Kismat Konnection, Ugly Aur Pagli and Bachna Ae Haseeno also featured her songs, boosting her popularity among Indians around the world.
“I grew up watching the Bollywood films and admiring the stars. And now being a part of it and being respected is the biggest buzz. Especially for my mum, now that she sees me hanging out with the stars themselves,” she says. (By EDDINO ABDUL HADI In Singapore/ The Straits Times/ AsiaNews)

Sexy & Beautiful....Actress Camilla Belle

Sexy & Beautiful....Actress Camilla Belle
(NSI News Source Info) November 14, 2008: A handful of readers have written in and expressed shock that Joe Jonas would get into a new relationship - with actress Camilla Belle - so soon after breaking up with Taylor Swift.
We can now count Swift in that group, as the singer told OK! that Belle was actually the basis for her and Jonas' split.
"They've been together since we broke up," Swift said. "That's why we broke up - because he met her."

Camilla Belle is an actress that speaks fluent English and Portuguese. She's best known for her role as Evolet in the movie 10,000 B.C. She's also appeared in an episode of Walker, Texas Ranger.
Personally, though, Belle is now a household name in celebrity gossip circles because she began dating Joe Jonas in the fall of 2008. These two met during the shooting of a Jonas Brothers' music video and have been smitten ever since.

Christina Aguilera: Fred Segal Shopper

Christina Aguilera: Fred Segal Shopper
(NSI News Source Info) November 14, 2008: Stepping out to indulge her penchant for retail therapy, Christina Aguilera was spotted along with her husband Jordan Bratman exiting the Fred Segal boutique in Los Angeles last night (November 13).
The “Keeps Getting Better” songstress looked positively gorgeous in a low-cut black longsleeve dress, grasping her hubby’s hand as she walked down a flight of stairs.

Regarding her recent performance on the 2008 MTV Video Music Awards, Christina told press, “I wanted to give [fans] a little sneak preview of what’s to come [with the VMA performance]. The vein of the new material is a futuristic take on what is inspiring me at the moment ... and it’s got a very pop-art feel, visually.”
She continued, “[There’s a] throwback to Andy Warhol and all the colors and vividness and bright boldness that was in that artwork. I’m a big collector of pop art and graffiti art at this point, too — D*Face and Banksy, also Roy Lichtenstein ... and it’s been very fun venturing off into that zone.”
“I was very inspired by the look and feel of that [pop-art] genre, your Jane Birkins, your Blondies, females who have come before who have done this so many times and so well — almost as an homage to them. Also, speaking of Warhol, Nico from the Velvet Underground ... so it all kind of ties in to a pop-art feel and twist, with a mod look. But a futuristic taste of what’s to come.”

Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt: Breakin the Law!

Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt: Breakin the Law!
(NSI News Source Info) November 14, 2008: It seems that Britney Spears, Lindsay Lohan and Paris Hilton aren’t the only Hollywood celebrities to have driving run-ins with the police - yesterday Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt got a little visit from “Johnny Law.”
The “Hills” co-star couple was on their way out to a romantic dinner date when they were pulled over for not displaying their license plates, subsequently receiving a ticket.

But that wasn’t enough to stop these two upbeat lovers from having a great night. They arrived at The Cut restaurant at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills displaying smiles as they reminded the public to obey the law and display license plates.
Heidi looked flirty in a grey minidress with black knee-high stockings and black heels while Spencer sported a black and grey striped shirt, black jacket, jeans, and black shoes.

Nicole Richie and Joel Madden: EMA Hotties

Nicole Richie and Joel Madden: EMA Hotties
(NSI News Source Info) November 14, 2008: They’re always up for high-profile Hollywood fun, and last night Nicole Richie and Joel Madden were spotted at the 18th Annual Environmental Media Awards.
The “Simple Life” cutie and her Good Charlotte frontman boyfriend arrived at the Ebell Theatre to a throng of paparazzi, with Nicole looking elegant in a grey and black dress with strappy black heels.

Earlier in the day, Richie and Madden were out and about in Los Angeles, stopping into the Byron Allen hair salon for some beautification.
Nicole looked fun and flirty in a red paisley printed halter-style dress while Joel shamelessly self-promoted his DCMA line with a logo t-shirt, grey warm-up pants, and sneakers.

Preview: Yuvraaj

Preview: Yuvraaj
(NSI News Source Info) November 14, 2008 - New Delhi: A child wants love, A man wants money - finally man yearns for love!! It is a unique tale spin narrated through music.Yuvvraaj is a story revolving around today's youngsters and their attitude towards money and lifestyle over their value for relationships. Set in Europe in modern times, it's a story of three young children (Salman Khan, Anil Kapoor and Zayed Khan) of a billionaire father, brought up in three different environments. As a result they develop three distinct and individual personalities. All three of them are very passionate and aggressive to fulfill their own aspirations. The drama unfolds when their world collides with each other and how they play against each other is the most exciting plot presented in this magnum opus by none other than Subhash Ghai!

Paswan opposes ban on Deshdrohi

Paswan opposes ban on Deshdrohi
(NSI News Source Info) November 14, 2008 - New Delhi: With Deshdrohi, a film based on North Indians migrating to Mumbai, creating a controversy in Maharashtra, LJP leader and Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan questioned the banning of the film in the state despite getting Censor Board clearance."What is the harm in screening the film. It has got clearance from the Censor Board. No other state has banned it," he said at a press conference when asked to comment on the ban imposed by the Maharashtra government on the film scheduled to be released today.Paswan said he had seen some promos on television channels and found nothing provocative in them.The Maharashtra government has imposed a two-month ban on the film fearing backlash from Raj Thackeray-led MNS and others if it was allowed to be released in the present format."The ban should be imposed on MNS. LJP was the first to make the demand at a meeting of the Union Cabinet. We have demanded arrest of the MNS leader and his trial on charges of sedition," he said.The Maharashtra police had asked the film writer, producer and actor Kamaal Khan for a separate screening before the film's release.The MNS has welcomed the ban on the film saying the movie had the potential to create law and order problem if screened in the state.

"प्यार बेशुमार लिखूं" .... Hindi Poem

"प्यार बेशुमार लिखूं" .... Hindi Poem
November 14, 2008 NSI News Source Info

"प्यार बेशुमार लिखूं"
अपने खामोश तकल्लुम मैं ये इज़हार लिखूं,
हर जगह तेरे ही एक नाम की तकरार लिखूं...
एक हरकत भी कलम की हो तुझे प्यार लिखूं,
प्यार तू एक लिखे मैं तुझे सो बार लिखूं....
बेकरारी भरे दिल का तू ही है करार लिखूं,
अपनी इन तेज बदहवास धड़कनों की रफ़्तार लिखूं...
आज लाया हूँ तुझे दिल का ये उपहार लिखूं,
हाँ मिलन के है अब बहुत जल्द ये आसार लिखूं....
तेरी नज़रों ने जो उठाया है वो खुमार लिखूं ,

अपने हर लफ्ज़ से तुझे प्यार बेशुमार लिखूं...

Courtesy & credit to Seema Gupta for Hindi Poem.

Arbaaz Ditches Wife Malaika For Katrina

Arbaaz Ditches Wife Malaika For Katrina
(NSI News Source Info) November 14, 2008: Yes Arbaaz Khan has dumped wife Malaika Arora for brother Salman’s girlfriend Katrina Kaif. Shocked! Dont be.Arbaaz has taken up a new role - that of a producer and for his first film he decided to take Katrina Kaif for the lead role instead of his dear wife Malaika Arora. Now Malaika wouldn’t have been so disappointed in Arbaaz if he had chosen any other actress.

Malaika and Katrina just cannot stand each other. A source reveals,
“Apparently, Malaika was supposed to be the lead heroine in Arbaaz’s first film as producer. But with the recent success achieved by Katrina, Arbaaz has decided that it would be a better option financially to replace his wife with his brother’s future wife.”
“As one would expect this has not gone down well with Malaika who is now threatening to leave him if he does the intended. Malaika is very jealous of Katrina and it is common knowledge that the two girls share cold vibes,” added the source.
Relax Malaika… You cannot compete with Katrina. She is younger and prettier.

Anil and Sonam Get A Big Snub from British Press

Anil and Sonam Get A Big Snub from British Press
(NSI News Source Info) November 14, 2008: Anil Kapoor is a superstar in India and Sonam Kapoor is one of the most sought after fresh faces in Bollywood but WHO CARES in UK!

Anil Kapoor was invited at the London Film Festival recently to promote the film Slumdog Millionaire where he made a guest appearance as a TV show host. So instead of his wife, Anil took along Sonam so that the girl gets noticed abroad.
But unfortunately both of them got a big ignore by the British media. No one photographed them and no body approached them for interviews.
“None of the British press was interested in taking photos of Sonam or her father. To them they were unknowns and not news-worthy,” says the source.
My advise to the Bollywood folk… STOP DREAMING OF MAKING BIG IN HOLLYWOOD!

Can Bollywood’s Bikini Babes Make a Film Hit?

Can Bollywood’s Bikini Babes Make a Film Hit?
(NSI News Source Info) November 14, 2008: Its been a popular trend inspired from Hollywood flicks like Bond series to have a super sexy actress emerging out of the sea in a bikini. Most filmmakers promote this as the USP of the film.

Priyanka Chopra walking in a golden swimsuit in Dostana’s first promos, Minissha Lamba sizzling down in her pearly white bikini swimming carelessly in the Ocean or Kareena Kapoor flaunting her zero size figure in a electric green bikini in Tashan… Bollywood sure knows how to flaunt their leading ladies to grab eye-balls.
But how far does this tactic help in pulling crowds to the cinema hall? Can a bikini clad Kareena Kapoor, Mallika Sherawat or Bipasha Basu evoke so much interest and curiosity.
One movie buff, Piyush Arora says, “Bikini shots are fairly common these days… besides all of them look just the same, so I wouldn’t go for the movie because it offers a Bikini scene. It hardly matters.”
While another cine-goer Bharthi says, “Whatever people might say but skin show does attract people… especially men. It offers them sheer spectacle that film makers make out of women’s bodies… and if it draws crowds to the theatres, they find nothing wrong with it. Its worth a try for them.”
What do you think? Do Bikini scenes evoke your curiosity? Would you be interested to watch a film if the promos show the leading lady in a Bikini?

Financial Crisis Pinches Bollywood Too

Financial Crisis Pinches Bollywood Too
(NSI News Source Info) November 14, 2008: The fumes of the global economic meltdown have started effecting Bollywood big time as major production houses start cost-cutting.Apparently, T-Series CEO Bhushan Kumar has asked Director Pooja Bhatt to reduce the budget of her Himesh Reshammiya starring Kajra Re. The production house is also reconsidering its projects that are starring expensive stars like Salman Khan and Akshay Kumar.


Bollywood trade analyst Komal Nahata confirms, “The slowdown has been felt in the industry rather slowly, but it has now caught up with it…However, it is difficult to say whether this has happened as a result of the global impact or due to the box-office disasters of recent big-budget movies, like Drona, Kidnap and Karzzz. But a sense of insecurity now pervades all production concerns, more so in Bollywood’s corporates houses.”
Director of a production house called Percept Picture also added saying, “Recently, two Bollywood corporate houses incurred losses to the tune of Rs 160 crore and Rs 60 crore, respectively. Naturally both have now put on hold their planned acquisitions. This was bound to happen. But it has happened sooner than we expected.”
Kishore Lulla of Eros International explains, “Look, with the liquidity crunch in the market, people now have less disposable income and so they will now spend less on luxury and entertainment - which means the movie-going clientele will decrease and so will the box-office collections.
“This will first affect the exhibition and distribution sector and consequently the production sector as it will have less money coming in from the two main sources - film exhibition and distribution. With less money on hand, producers will be forced to cut cost before the system gets corrected.”

Pia Trivedi to host Dress Circle

Pia Trivedi to host Dress Circle

(NSI News Source Info) November 14, 2008: Welcome to Pia's world of movies through her movie magazine, Dress Circle, where a pot pourri of movies, movie wallahs, on set gossip, cat fights between co-stars, replacements and drop outs, stars and their prices, and everything related to movies is presented in a magazine format. A weekly, half hour show, it features the sexy Pia Trivedi as the anchor, who is an edgy, sexy and hardcore film magazine editor.The show is a fast paced show, loaded with every possible scrap of information and gossip of Bollywood! The Mumbai born Pia has been very active on the ramp over the last few years. She has also done endorsements for Skoda and Mayur Suitings. Pia has also featured on Cosmopolitan magazine, Man’s World, Girlz Magazine Femina, Verve and Seventeen among others.

2008 CMA Awards: The Show, The Winners

2008 CMA Awards: The Show, The Winners
(NSI News Source Info) November 13, 2008: Tying Garth Brooks for the most wins in the most prestigious category, Kenny Chesney took home his third straight “Entertainer of the Year” trophy at the 2008 CMA Awards.
Held at the Sommet Center in Nashville, Tennessee, the show was hosted by Carrie Underwood and Brad Paisley with a number of top-notch acts including a strong performance of “All Night Long” by Detroit native Kid Rock.

Meanwhile, country superstar George Strait snatched up CMA trophies for album of the year for “Troubadour” and for single of the year for “I Saw God Today”.
Other big winners included Brad Paisley for best male vocalist and best video ("Waitin’ On A Woman"), Carrie Underwood for best female vocalist, Jennifer Nettles for song of the year ("Stay") and best duo (Sugarland).
During the three-hour country extravaganza, top-name presenters included the always-lovable Miley Cyrus teamed with papa Billy Ray, as well as Nicole Kidman and her “Australia” co-star Hugh Jackman, among many others.

Alessandra Ambrosio Shows Off Post-Baby Body!

Alessandra Ambrosio Shows Off Post-Baby Body!
(NSI News Source Info) November 13, 2008: Fresh off of giving birth to Anja Louise Ambrosio Mazur on back in late August, Alessandra Ambrosio is already back in shape, showing off her figure in skimpy swimwear.
Looking hot and ready for the runway, the Brazilian supermodel mommy was spotted out on Wednesday (November 12) preparing for a long weekend of hard work in Miami Beach, Florida.

As previously reported by Gossip Girls, Alessandra will be teaming up with fellow supermodels Heidi Klum, Adriana Lima, Marisa Miller, Miranda Kerr and others for The 2008 Victoria’s Secret Runway Show.
The holiday infused lingerie catwalk exhibit will be taped at Fontainebleau - then to be broadcast on Wednesday, December 3 at 10/9C on CBS.

Reese Witherspoon: CMA Cutie

Reese Witherspoon: CMA Cutie
(NSI News Source Info) November 13, 2008: She’s definitely a southern girl at heart, and Reese Witherspoon looked excited as she made her way down the red carpet at tonight’s 42nd Annual Country Music Association Awards.
The “Sweet Home Alabama” hottie was turning heads left and right as she sauntered into the Sommet Center sporting a partially see-through black gown with her blonde locks brushed aside.

But Reese isn’t just in the house to enjoy the show- she’s also scheduled to be one of the night’s esteemed presenters, along with the likes of Billy Ray and Miley Cyrus, Hugh Jackman, Nicole Kidman, and Taylor Swift.
The CMAs also boasts a top-notch list of performers including Kenny Chesney, The Eagles, Lady Antebellum, Keith Urban, and Trace Adkins.