Sri Rama Rajyam at IFFI

Bapu-directed Sri Rama Rajyam will have a special screening on November 28, at the International Film Festival in Goa. The film will be screened for around 500 international journalists. Sri Rama Rajyam has extraordinary special effects along with a wonderful storyline depicted well by veteran director Bapu. The film, made on a whopping budget, has opened to positive talks. Based on the story of Lava-Kusa, Balayya acts as Lord Rama and Nayanthara plays the role of Sita. ANR has appeared as Valmiki Maharshi. Ilayaraja has scored music for the film. Yalamanchili Sai Baba is the producer.

John ko gussa kyun aata hai? Revealed

The media has been buzzing with reports of the apparent fisticuffs John Abraham got into with a persistent fan, at a promotional event for Desi Boyz in Pune. Photos of John supposedly shoving the man away roughly were circulated online and in the press. But a fan who witnessed the event has stepped forward to explain what really happened.

“A girl in the crowd was having a really tough time dealing with a guy’s incessant lewd remarks. John saw that she was uncomfortable, stopped the event immediately and pulled her away,” our source revealed. Contrary to reports, there was no scuffle, the fan added: “John just pushed the man away in the process of getting the girl away from the scene. A big issue was made out of a small incident.” A friend of the actor affirmed, “John has always treated women with a lot of respect. It infuriates him to see anyone misbehaving with a woman.”

Rajinikanth's daughter, Soundarya, clears rumours on 'Rana'

Recently there was a rumour doing rounds that Rana, superstar Rajinikanth’s mega venture, had begun shooting in Bengaluru with a three-day schedule.

The grapevine was buzzing that Rajinikanth and Deepika Padukone (who is making her debut in Tamil) were spotted a few days ago at Nice Road, the six lane expressway connecting Bengaluru to Mysore.

It was even said that K.S. Ravikumar was shooting a few important scenes at an exclusive set that had been erected for the purpose.

But when Soundarya, one of the producers of Rana was contacted by DC, she rubbished the report as ‘baseless rumours’.

Is Don 2 in trouble because of Ra.One?

Shah Rukh Khan may have faced a lot of flak for Ra.One’s weak content. But, will it impact how audiences perceive Don 2? That seems to be the question on everyone’s mind as the Christmas release of Farhan Akhtar’s thrilling caper approaches.

However, SRK’s many supporters are only too ready to defend him, saying much is being made of the mixed critical response towards Ra.One, which was in the final analysis, an unequivocal commercial hit. Says a senior film-maker, “So many people have vested interests with a multi-crore project. Moreover, it’s an easy way for people to get attention, talking about someone as big as SRK.” Industry watchers also say that Ra.One’s fate will have no bearing on SRK’s ability to draw crowds to the theatres for Don 2. “SRK’s fan base is very much intact,” says a trade analyst. “Don 2’s promos have already generated a lot of excitement.”

'Kolaveri' crosses 4 mn mark, Big B hooked on to it

Why This Kolaveri Di, already a rage, seems on a record breaking spree. In less than a day, the song has got more than a million hits on YouTube and so far has registered 4,052,189 hits.

The promo of the song was released on YouTube Nov 16 and spread like a viral, thanks to its funny, nonsense Tanglish (Tamil-English). On Thursday evening, the song notched up to 3,020,014 hits on YouTube, and suprisingly the count spiralled to 4,052,189 by Friday noon.

Amitabh Bachchan is going gaga over the foot-tapping music and says he just can't get enough of the song sung by Tamil star Dhanush for his film 3, which is being directed by his wife Aishwarya, the daughter of Tamil superstar Rajinikanth. The song has been composed by 18-year-old Anirudh Ravichander.

"'Why this Kolaveri Kolaveri Kolaveri Di' .. Ahh...just not leaving the lips and the mind and the system...such an endearing experience. Brings a smile and laughter and rhythm instantly to the face... get to YouTube, type Dhanush and Kolaveri Di... its his latest song that has become a rage all over," Amitabh posted on his blog Bigb.bigadda.com.

"Dhanush, son-in-law of Rajinikanth, a young brigade superstar in Tamil Cinema married to Aishwarya, Rajini's daughter...its lovely. 'Kolaveri...' Tamil for rejected lovers rage, in a sweet way...now getting used as verbiage in almost any walk of life, social, political...every where!! tremendous," he posted.

The Bollywood megastar is so impressed by the song that he even posted a few lines praising the song on his Twitter.

"This Kolaveri is veri veri endearing .. just not leaving the sound waves in the mind-u... what-a what-a what-a do-u," tweeted Amitabh.

Justin Bieber takes paternity test

Teen sensation Justin Bieber has undergone a DNA test to put an end to allegations that he fathered a child with a California woman.

Mariah Yeater, 20, hit headlines earlier this month after sensationally claiming the singer had a fling with her following a Los Angeles concert last year, Contactmusic reported.

And in a bid to put the rumours to rest, the 'Baby' hitmaker voluntarily took a DNA test on November 18.

"(He) doesn't mind. He's like, 'I'm just going to go ahead... (with) it and be fine,'" said Scooter Braun, Bieber's manager.

Lady Gaga to receive LGBT honour

Pop star Lady Gaga is to be honoured in recognition of her work with lesbians, gays and bisexuals.

Gaga will be honoured by the Trevor Project, a non-profit company that offers suicide-prevention services to the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community.

The award will be given to her at the annual Trevor Live event. Google Inc will receive a special Trevor 2020 award, reports contactmusic.com.

"Our young are at the centre of a health crisis, and vocal leaders like Lady Gaga and technology leaders like Google have stepped up to help change our culture," said David McFarland, Trevor Project CEO and executive officer.

"We are proud to honour Lady Gaga with the Trevor Hero Award and Google Inc with the Trevor 2020 award for their work to help young people express their true selves with pride," McFarland added.

The Trevor Live event is slated to take place on December 4 at the Hollywood Palladiu.

‘A desi lifestyle is my secret’

I’m a very basic guy. Despite being in the industry for so long, I still don't understand the glitz and glamour that go with it,” says Akshay Kumar. The actor who has been in the industry for over two decades feels that things are just hotting up for him as far as Bollywood is concerned.

After almost 10 years of doing mainly comic roles, the original Khiladi will be seen again in an action film soon. “I’m just about to start shooting for Rowdy Rathore and I still feel as nervous and anxious as I felt during my initial days. I really value my success,” he smiles. Currently, Akshay is thrilled about the positive response he is getting for his fresh look in Desi Boyz. Despite the pressure and the erratic working hours, how does he manage to look so good? “My secret is to follow a desi lifestyle. I don’t drink and smoke. I hit the pillow at 10 pm. I eat healthy and meditate regularly,” says the actor.

That’s quite an unusual lifestyle for a Bollywood star but the results are there for all to see. But with a lot of new actors coming in, does a veteran like Akshay feel the pressure to look and perform his best? “Certainly there is competition. But I take it in a positive way. Every actor worth his name is trying his best. That’s what our industry is all about. The day you stop bothering about competition, you might become complacent,” says Khiladi Kumar.

Akshay is probably the only actor who has had the chance to share screen space with most of the other big names. With Hera Pheri, Bhagam Bhaag, Mujhse Shaadi Karogi and now Desi Boyz, he has managed to hold his own in multi-starrers as well. The buzz is that post Force, John Abraham is taking tips from Akshay to establish his action hero image. “John is a fabulous guy. It was a delight working with him in Garam Masala. In Desi Boyz, we just share a mad chemistry and that works for the film. I’m always there to help him,” assures the superstar.

I hold the ninth Bachchan of the family: Amitabh

With the birth of Aishwarya and Abhishek's daughter, megastar Amitabh Bachchan has welcomed the ninth Bachchan in the family, which was started by his father, noted poet Harivansh Rai Bachchan.

The 69-year-old actor has a younger brother Ajitabh, his two children, who has two children and is already a grandfather to his daughter, Shweta's two children.

"Dad! I hold the 9th Bachchan in my hands... this family that you started. Amitabh, Ajitabh (brother), Shweta(daughter) Nilima and Namrata (Ajitabh's daughters), Abhishek,(son) Naina and Bhim (Shweta's children) and now this beauty, unnamed so far," an emotional Big B wrote on his blog.

"I hope you and Ma look upon us from above and bless us and your latest addition. To carry forward what then may have seemed a somewhat limited expectation. The tradition continues and may it prosper by your love and your aashirvaad (blessing)," Bachchan wrote.

Aishwarya, 38, gave birth to a baby girl on Wednesday morning at a private hospital in Mumbai.

The National award winning actor, who has become a paternal grandfather for the first time, was all praise for the new angel in his life. "The soft innocence of nature rests in my arms, oblivious of what else happens around her. Occasionally she opens her large and what looks now to be eyes of the lighter hue, which those that have dealt with similar, know shall change with time.

"Often the gentlest of smiles quiver across her pouted upper lip, the shut eyes bringing expression through the brows and the settling down to that dream she must dream. Her head covered in the littlest of head gear she will ever adorn, snuggles into her mini quilt of varied colors dominated by the pink softness of its material," he added.

Daughter comes first for Abhishek

Getting it right at the box office with Players is important for Abhishek Bachchan. But it’s certainly not more important than his little baby daughter.

And that’s the message Abhi chose to send out this Wednesday when he cancelled a promotional trip to Dubai for his upcoming film to spend more time with his little bundle of joy.

Now the Dubai trip had been in the pipeline for a long time, and all the male cast members were expected to be a part of the promotional event. “November 25 was fixed as the day when the event would take place,” says a well-placed source from the production house.

“We had worked out the schedule taking into account the dates that Bobby Deol, Sikandar Kher and Abhishek gave. Ash’s delivery date had also been factored in.”

But a dad has to do what a dad has to do, and so it was that even though the entire trip had to be called off once Abhi pulled out, no one is complaining. “Everybody understands how big a moment this is for Abhi and Aishwarya,” our source added.
In the meantime, the Players’ production team is trying to get another promotional event in place.

“Dubai is a really important sector in terms of film promotion, so we would have to organise at least some sort of event there,” a harried spokesperson told us.

Well, we hope this is an alternative that keeps Abhi’s new family commitments in mind. After all, with the Bachchan parivaar, it’s always a case of hum saath, saath hain!

Vidya gets unapologetic

Vidya Balan is busy fending off questions about her sensuous, bold avatar in The Dirty Picture. About shedding her demure image, Vidya says, “Milan (Luthria) kept telling me, ‘Just psyche yourself to be bold, bindaas, everything else will follow’. I understood that it was about being free, fearless and uninhibited.”
Vidya also says that she found her “bold” mentality spilling over into her real-life persona: “Our work does have a direct or indirect impact on us,” the actress says. “I’m more unapologetic about my choices now, especially being a woman.” And do those “choices” she’s unapologetic about include Vidya’s rumoured relationship with UTV honcho Siddharth Roy Kapoor?

Beauty queens rule B’town in December

It happens only in India! Come December and a record of sorts will be created when five former Miss Indias will be see on the big screen.

Priyanka Chopra, Lara Dutta, Neha Dhupia, Sayali Bhagat and Simran Kaur Mundi are the beauty queens whose films will release within a week or two of each other.

“This is unprecedented,” says a trade observer. “There have been times when two beauty queens have had corresponding releases or co-starred in a film. But five of them at one go, is a remarkable coincidence.”

So while Don 2 will see Priyanka Chopra and Lara Dutta come together on screen eight years after Andaaz, Neha’s long pending Pappu Can’t Dance Saala is finally seeing the light of day.

Sayali Bhagat’s Ghost is also being released after some months’ delay, while Simran Kaur Mundi’s Jo Hum Chahein is being termed as a 'fresh affair'.

While industrywallahs say the Guiness Book of World Records should be approached, film-makers have also said that the 'beauty queen' tag might work as a good promotional tool.

As for us, we’ll just be enjoying the sight of so many lovely women on screen, and leave the marketing shenanigans to Bollywood.

Ajay-Saif reach a compromise

And now, a sigh of relief.

After sending trade pundits into a tizzy by announcing the same release date for their films, Son of Sardar and Race 2 respectively, Ajay Devgn and Saif Ali Khan have now ensured that they give each other a wide berth — at the box office.

Both actors were initially said to be intent on a Diwali 2012 release, but have now reached some sort of compromise.

“Ajay definitely has a connection with the festive season, which got him great returns on his Golmaal films,” a trade analyst points out.

“But Race 2 is one of the highly anticipated films of next year, so had the two releases coincided, both parties would have suffered some losses.”

Industry observers say that Saif and Ajay may have changed their minds however, at the thought that there were already two films planned for the same time: The untitled YRF film with Shah Rukh Khan and Khiladi 786 starring Akshay Kumar.

“Both Saif and Ajay are senior actors and must not have wanted to create any bad blood by jumping into the fray,” says an eminent film-maker. Now if only all Bollywood could develop as mature a perspective.

Suriya gets ‘anti-social’

At a time when celebrities and most movie stars are smitten by social networking websites and are incessantly promoting their films and personal details on the likes of Twitter and Facebook, this hot and happening star, Suriya, dares differ.

Though the 7 Aum Arivu actor is present on these sites, albeit through a ghost account, he did candidly admit to this newspaper that he will never be a part of social networking sites openly. He confirms that he is present on the sites but just to check what’s happening.

Expressing amazement about the love and affection of his fans he says, “Yes, there are lots of well wishers who shower me with love and support. They blindly admire whatever I do. Their updates on the sites really amaze me. They respect my work and their comments are heart-warming,” he observes.

However, he cannot bear the negativity. “It’s sad. The kind of filth and venom you find on social networking sites. I have seen people writing graffiti in school and theatre toilets, but they have no qualms about posting similar stuff on these sites. In fact, they seem to get a big kick out of it.”

With the kind of fan following he has, can he not influence a change?

He says skeptically, “I don’t see anything changing. It’s very sad. I faithfully follow A.R. Rahman in this respect. He used to say, ‘Even if there is negativity, I follow only the path of love’.” Suriya is aware of the temporary nature of his profession.

“I am not saying I am a perfect actor and that I will always be successful. I know it’s not permanent. So far, so good, you never know what tomorrow has in store for you.”

Attributing his success to hard work he says, “Whatever I am today did not come easy or by luck. I have had to endure my share of brickbats for 6 to 7 years to reach this position. The same goes with my brother, Karthi, who did just 2 films in 5 years. He worked hard. Everybody gets an opportunity sooner or later and I think we have made the best of what we got and have risen to this level.”

He suddenly goes back to his pet peeve about people spewing nastiness on social networking sites. “They are misusing a public forum. By abusing others, their success is not going to come to you. You can watch films and comment on them instead of getting too personal. To comment personally on an actor or their family, is inhuman.”

Ending his tirade against social networking sites and people who misuse it he says, “I don’t mean any actor per se. I am referring to their fans too. They should really grow. As far as I am concerned these insults will not affect any committed actor’s success or performance in any way and those who indulge in such demeaning activity should realise that.”

Selvaraghavan moves from darkness to light

Selvaraghavan is an altered man.

There are discernible sea changes in the ace filmmaker’s personality after his marriage to Geethanjali. He’s lightened up. Those who’ve seen the sneak preview of his upcoming flick Mayakkam Enna are convinced his new optimistic attitude is reflected on screen.

“Unlike his earlier movies, which portrayed the darker side of life, there’s a lot of positive energy in ME,” confides a reliable source to DC.

The movie, which stars Dhanush and Richa Gangopadhyay, focuses on the lifestyle of the young generation. Dhanush will be seen in the sprightly role of aspiring photographer Karthik Subramanian.
Meanwhile, the much-hyped flick has already been censored and given a UA certification.

Though initially the makers scheduled ME for a December release, Selva confirmed to this newspaper that they have advanced it by a week. Which means the movie will hit cinema halls on November 25.

It will be the sole release on that day, in the hope of raking in a better opening. G.V. Prakash’s music is already a hit.

Srihari praises Bhumika Chawla

"Bhumika has been a splendid producer,” affirms director Srihari.

He’s just completed his first venture in Telugu, Takita Takita. Some portions were shot again in Tamil and now the Tamil version, Thulli Ezhundadhu Kadhal, is ready for release. He says he was lucky to get a producer like actress Bhumika for his debut film.

Besides playing a vital role in the movie, Bhumika has been an ideal producer, confirms Srihari.

“Unlike other producers, Bhumika and her husband Bharat Thakur never interfered in my work and gave me total creative freedom. She showed that she trusted my talent completely and never came to the location even once, except for the 14 days when she shot for her portions.”

The director explains that he and Bhumika had sat together and discussed the script for a sizeable length of time, so she was confident he could handle it.

“Bhumika was clear what she wanted from me. We spent almost eight months on the script before we started filming. Everyone had perfect clarity. That’s why Bhumika decided she would visit the spot as a producer, only if required.”

Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia D'Souza confirmed reports that they will be tying knot next year

Bollywood actors Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia D'Souza have confirmed reports that they will be tying the knot next year.

"Its an exciting new chapter in our lives and all your wishes and blessings make it even more beautiful and special for Riteish and me," Genelia wrote on Twitter.

Wishes started pouring in for the couple, since the time the news of their wedding started floating around.

"Am thrilled to bits and excited about one of my closest friends upcoming wedding!! @Riteishd is truly a special guy!! And he and @geneliad make an absolutely wonderful couple!! Big love to them!!," filmmaker Karan Johar had tweeted.

"@Riteishd Congratulations 'Chupe Rustom' lol..time for celebrations. Love to G," actor Arjun Rampal said.

"@Riteishd happy happy for u Rits and @ geneliad at the announcement, congrats, good luck and God bless," celebrity photographer Atul Kasbekar tweeted.

"One of my closest friends just gave me the best news! I am so happy. Good things happen to good people! Thats what makes every day worth it. Yes, the 'good things and good people' tweet was about @geneliad and @Riteishd. She is like family to me and he is a treasure! Thrilled," actor Siddharth said.

"@Riteishd U & gene have balanced career & personal life with equal priority! Inspiring! My best wishes Ritz!," actress Amrita Rao said.

"Thanking everyone for the best wishes..A big thank you for all your good wishes. Love you all," Riteish tweeted.

Riteish and Genelia began seeing each other on the sets of their Bollywood debut, 'Tujhe Meri Kasam' in 2003. Neither of them ever publicly acknowledged their relationship but Riteish, son of Congress minister Vilasrao Deshmukh, said in a media report recently that they will seal their relationship with a wedding in 2012.

Akki bonds with Prabhu

After bowling over the South, Prabhu Deva is here to enchant Bollywood with his jhatkas and his tadkas. The Tamil star, best known for his dance steps, is directing his maiden Bollywood venture, the Akshay Kumar-starrer Rowdy Rathore. And it seems Akshay is already a fan of Prabhu’s directing skills and the kind of commercial ingredients he has incorporated.

“Akshay is bowled over by Prabhu’s directorial skills. He was anyways impressed by the script, but the execution has left him spellbound. He feels Prabhu is bringing back the masala genre, something Bollywood stopped making since the 90s,” says a senior unit member.

What is especially surprising is that it took time for them to warm up to each other. “It took him 8-10 days to get a hang of how Prabhu was planning to shoot the film. But there has been no looking back since, and they are often seen in animated discussions,” a source informs. While the film is half done, the hardcore action is only beginning. “They have shot some dramatic scenes. But the USP of Rowdy Rathore is its action, and that is yet to be shot,” the source continues. “It won’t be long before Akshay steps into kicks-and-punches mode again.”

Old is truly gold for Abhay

Abhay Deol is one Bollywood actor who has always made it a point to steer clear of monotony. After making an unusual debut, he has continued to do off-beat and different cinema. And at a time when most actors are busy playing younger characters, Abhay is planning to essay the role of a 40-plus IAS officer in his next film, Dibakar Banerjee’s Shanghai.

But is it the right career move to play an older character at such a critical juncture in his career? “I love Dibakar’s style of film-making and have full faith in his vision. So when he told me to play a much older character, I didn’t hesitate,” says Abhay, adding that the role also gives him a new challenge to look forward to. Traditionally, playing older characters has always been considered suicidal. But if we can have a 40-plus Aamir Khan successfully pulling off the role of a college student half his real age in 3 Idiots, then why can't Abhay Deol do the reverse?

Warring Khans call a truce

Do we detect a thaw in what has been the biggest animosity Bollywood has seen? Aamir and Shah Rukh Khan may not have seen eye to eye in almost two decades but Aamir’s recent comments give us the confidence that things are about to change. For perhaps the first time ever, Aamir genuinely wished SRK all the best for the latter’s upcoming release, Ra.One, suggesting that perhaps he’s in a mood to let bygones be bygones.

At a recent press conference to announce his television debut, Aamir was quizzed about Ra.One. “I wish SRK all the best for his film,” Aamir said, forcing many to wonder what led to this change of heart. An industry source feels he’s tired of the whole animosity. “The issues they have had were quite trivial, and both Aamir and SRK have better things to look forward to,” says the source. “While SRK’s Ra.One is his biggest venture yet, Aamir is celebrating his TV debut.”

But is there any threat of one overwhelming the other? “Making such a big announcement barely days before Ra.One releases is a strategy fraught with risk. But that again is true Aamir style,” our source adds.

Timberlake gets together with ex?

Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel were seen together at the after-party of his new film's premiere, sparking more speculation that they have rekindled their romance.

The couple, who split in March after four years together, attended the Los Angeles premiere of "In Time". Onlookers say they were very affectionate towards each other, reports femalefirst.

"They became more and more affectionate, sneaking kisses, whispering to each other... At one point, she pretended to punch him a couple times and he gamely bounced up and down like a jack in the box," said an onlooker.

Two Sophies in Siddharth’s life!!!

This dashing young Mallya always makes headlines. Even if he's not arm-in-arm with the lovely lady, Deepika, with his suave style and smooth talk he grabs all the attention. And makes pretty heads turn.

Recently, at a high fashion party, the minute Sid walked in, all the lovely ladies in a row started gushing and swooning over him. When our zoOm reporter caught him turning a blushing red with all the attention he said, "Find a guy who doesn't like the attention from the girls? I don't think I got so much attention, if you saw it, then that's great." When quizzed about a certain 'Sophie' he'd mentioned on a recent chat show, which raised many eyebrows, he clarified, "Yes, I mentioned a girl called Sophie on the chat show, but everyone immediately thought it was (Bollywood's) Sophie Choudry. There is more than one Sophie in the world. The girl I was referring to is actually four thousand miles away in the U.K." Well, our B-town's Sophie was also there at this party, and yes, the two did catch up. We aren't telling anything more. He, he, he!

Beyonce plans a mega nursery

The 30-year-old singer Beyonce and her rapper husband Jay-Z, who are expecting their first child together in February, are thought to be preparing a 2,200 square feet room for their little one to live in at their New York City apartment.

A source told US Weekly their home “will have a nursery that is 2,200 square feet”. But some of the couple’s friends are not too keen about the idea of creating such a big space for their tot to play in. The insider added, “Some people are like, ‘Won’t you be scared to leave your baby in that huge room?’”

Beyonce has no concerns about her forthcoming step into motherhood and she recently revealed her pregnancy is going really well. She explained, “It’s going really well, I am so happy with everything right now. I am not nervous because I know it’s happening at the right time. I felt I got married at the right time for me, and now we are having the baby at the right time. I feel like we didn’t rush anything, and now we are being blessed with everything naturally.”

Justin to shoot a movie in 2012

The Baby hitmaker Justin Bieber, who last year released documentary film Justin Bieber: Never Say Never, which chronicled his ascent to pop stardom, revealed, his team are “working on a script” as he plans to return to the big screen next summer when he’s finished his Christmas record Under the Mistletoe and second studio album.

He told MTV News, “What’s happening is: Get off this tour, and then my (holiday) album’s coming out, so I have to go back out and promote that album, and then after that, it’s almost time for my next album, so then everything starts over again. Hopefully next summer I can start on a movie or something.” It will not be the first time the 17-year-old pop star has turned his hand to acting. He previously starred on the crime drama TV series CSI: Crime Scene Investigation last year, and Justin has since admitted he’s caught the acting bug.

Daniel Craig growing beard for next Bond film

Actor Daniel Craig is growing a beard for the new James Bond film Skyfall. The 43-year-old actor is reprising his role as '007' for a third time in the upcoming instalment due for release in 2012 and the usually suave spy will sport an unshaven look for the first time, reported Sun online.

The James Bond character has been seen on screen once before with a beard. In 2002's Die Another Day Pierce Brosnan was seen with long facial hair after being taken captive by North Korean soldiers.

However, Skyfall will be the first movie where Bond chooses to have a beard. Craig, who married actress Rachel Weisz earlier this year has been busy for the last six months getting himself into prime physical condition for his return as Bond, undergoing a gruelling exercise regime.

"Daniel has been on an intense five-day-a-week regime, running around Central Park, doing sit-ups and then swimming and playing tennis every weekend.

He's in the best shape he's ever been," a source said. Bosses are also reportedly scaling back production costs on the movie, which had been delayed because of studio MGM's financial problems. "They've really scaled back.

The lavish production and locations have been cut. There is only a reduced cast and crew travelling to the few overseas destinations. There won't be as much hand-to-hand fighting, it's gone back to blowing stuff up, including London's Vauxhall Bridge," the source added.

Suriya and Ravi Teja to join hands soon?

Though multi-starrers are a rarity in Tamil cinema, here is DC giving you the sneak peek of a bi-lingual film — a Tami l-Telugu one, which will have two big stars from K’town and T’town coming together.

Yes, sources inform us that Tamil heartthrob Suriya and Tollywood actor Ravi Teja are being roped in for a high action flick by none other than Venkat Prabhu.

Reportedly, the filmmaker who is basking in the success of his earlier film Mankatha with Thala Ajith met Suriya and impressed him with a one-liner from his script.

Buzz is that the movie is to be produced by Gnanavel of Studio Green, who has tasted success releasing the dubbed versions of Suriya and Karthi’s flicks in Tollywood. Other details are being worked out!

Vijay and Priyanka Chopra to sizzle again?

Since Velayudham hitting cinema halls this Diwali, Vijay is gearing up for his next film with A.R. Murugadoss, which is touted to be a mass action film.

Earlier, sources said that, Bollywood biggies like SRK and Akshay Kumar were keen to work with this script but due to various reasons this did not materialise.

The present news doing the rounds is that Murugadoss is keen on roping in National Award-winning B’town hottie Priyanka Chopra as the leading lady.

Priyanka is not new to K’wood as she has already teamed up with Vijay in his flick Tamizhan way back in 2002.

A unit hand revealed that negotiations are going on with Priyanka. Major part of the story is happening in Mumbai and Murugadoss along with his assistants was recently in Mumbai for location hunting.

Interestingly, Vijay will be working in a movie with a backdrop of Mumbai after almost 12 years after almost 12 years after Nenjinile released in 1999.
While Santhosh Sivan is the cinematographer, Harris Jayaraj is said to be composing the music.

Amitabh Bachchan awarded honorary doctorate by Australian university

Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan was on Thursday awarded an honorary doctorate by the Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Australia.

"I am truly overwhelmed and immensely pleased to be the recipient of such a distinction," 69-year-old Bachchan said after receiving his fourth doctorate for his contribution to the world of entertainment.

"The recognition of my contribution to Indian cinema and its effort to reach out to an international community fills me with intense pride and humility, pride for being able to be a link between Australian and Indian professionals of the film and creative industries and humility for a chance to be the medium in doing so. May this help strengthen the existing bonds between our two countries," he said.

This is the fourth doctorate awarded to the actor. He was earlier conferred upon by the De Montfort Univ, Leicester UK, Jhansi University and the Delhi University. The actor had two years back turned down the honorary doctorate from QUT as a mark of protest against racial attacks on Indian students.
Australia's High Commissioner to India Peter Varghese congratulated the Bollywood superstar on his honorary Australian doctorate. "I congratulate Bachchan on his honorary doctorate from QUT, an important academic institution in my home city of Brisbane.

Bachchan has made an inestimable contribution to global cinema and this prestigious award is a marker of the impact of his films in Australia," he said.

Vivek Oberoi proves he’s oh-so-well-versed

In Zindagi Milegi Na Dobara, Farhan Akhtar played a copywriter who secretly writes poetry in his diary, consenting to publish it only when his friends egg him on to make a life-changing decision.

Much like Farhan’s character, it seems Vivek Oberoi also has a secret penchant for penning a verse or two. But now, Vivek’s poetry has caught the attention of Vinod Bachchan, the producer of Zilla Ghaziabad.

A source on the ZG sets recently told us that Vivek spent his spare time scribbling verses in a notebook. “Vinod saw Vivek writing his usual lines in between shots and immediately wanted to find out what the actor was up to,” our source adds.

After much coaxing, Vivek shared his poetry with Vinod, who was so impressed that he decided to incorporate them in the movie. “Vivek’s poetry will now be heard in the romantic sequences filmed on him and his leading lady in ZG, Charmee,” our source says.

While Vivek refused to comment, apart from admitting that he’s always loved writing poetry, his spokesperson said that this was another facet of the talented actor.

Free Entry!!!

Bringing all speculation of whether or not the sequel to No Entry will be made, the film’s team has confirmed that the project is finally on its way.

While there has been quite some panic over whether the project would ever be green lighted (considering that leading man Salman Khan’s diary is packed with his four upcoming projects), writer-director Anees Bazmee has confirmed that the film is now on track.

“We’ve actually decided on the timelines, and when the script is to be narrated to Salman,” Anees says. “This will happen in the latter half of November. Salman is quite excited because he understands that this is a huge franchise.”

The film will once again feature the escapades of three friends, and our sources tell us that apart from Sallu and Anil Kapoor, Fardeen Khan will also be seen in the sequel.

“Sallu felt the film wouldn’t be complete without the original trio, and Fardeen’s character has therefore shaped up very nicely. The audiences are going to find him hilarious,” a source revealed.

All this is good news of course for Fardeen, who has been desperate to make his comeback into Bollywood. Unfortunately, none of the leading ladies from the original would be repeated — which spells bad news for Esha Deol.

Bad luck...

Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan in copyright row

Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan was on Friday ordered to deposit $200,000 with an Indian court after a scriptwriter claimed that the star's new superhero film had breached copyright.

Two judges at the Bombay High Court said there appeared to be a prima facie infringement of intellectual property and told Khan to pay 10 million rupees to the court or risk the release of Ra.One being postponed.

Scriptwriter Yash Patnaik took Khan, his Red Chillies Entertainment production company and the film's distributors, Eros Entertainment, to court, claiming that he owned the copyright on the concept.

He said he was not given due credit and is also claiming that he should receive 10 per cent of the film's profits.

Passing the order, Chief Justice Mohit Shah and judge Roshan Dalvi observed that it was "unfortunate that people in the film industry use others' concepts and then don't want to pay or give them credit".

The case was adjourned for a further hearing.

Ra.One, which cost an estimated $20 million to make and is packed with special effects, is due out in India next on Wednesday, with Khan playing superhero G.One who fights the evil Ra.One to save humanity.

The film is the 45-year-old actor's most ambitious to date and has been aggressively marketed for several months.

There was no immediate comment from Khan or Eros Entertainment but sources indicated that they were willing to pay the deposit to prevent the film's release being stalled.

I look for clock towers in cities: Amitabh Bachchan

Amitabh Bachchan has revealed his fetish for time, so much so that once the 69-year-old megastar visits a new city, his eyes scan the horizon for clock towers that in a way help him to understand the discipline of the place well.

"I look for clock towers in cities I visit and when I find them kept in working condition it reflects to me a sense of the discipline of the city that I am visiting," Big B posted on his blog bigb.bigadda.com.

"There are and have been towns that I have visited and discovered ornate clock towers, with the most detailed and elaborate clocks enshrined within their architecture, but never in working condition. It is an indicator to me of what to expect from that city," he added.

He said he has a clock in every room of his house.

"The knowledge of time is essential... People snigger and ridicule me on my fetish for time and its indicators, for, I have clocks and wall timers placed in almost every room at strategic points," he posted.
"A digital red lighted one in the bedroom, who's radiance not only shows me the path in the dark of the night but also keeps reminding me of the number of hours I have left before I should awake and step out to work," he wrote.

"In the dressing area, the bathroom, places of work, in the vanity van, on set of KBC (Kaun Banega Crorepati) in that small little area where I await the appearance of the new contestants," he added.

Asha Bhosle enters Guinness Records for most single studio recordings

Legendary Bollywood playback singer Asha Bhosle has entered the Guinness World Records for the most number of single studio recordings.

Asha has recorded up to 11,000 solo, duets and chorus backed songs like Mehbooba Mehbooba, Chura Liya Hai Tumne, Piya Tu Ab Toh Aaja and several others in over 20 Indian languages since 1947.

The 78-year-old was conferred with the Guinness honour at the Asian awards function held in London on Thursday.

'Aaj mujhe lag raha hai ki mein world ki recognised singer hoon. Mein apne chahanewalo ka dhanyawad karti hoon. Aur asha karti hoon yahi pyaar bana rahe. Jis tarah se apne mere gaano ko saraha hai ussi tarah meri acting ko bhi karenge' (Now I feel I am a recognised singer in the world. I thank my fans and hope they will continue to love me. I wish they will appreciate my acting skills as much as they enjoyed my songs)," Asha told reporters.

She thanked music researcher Vishwas Nerurkar for helping her get the coveted title.

The veteran is also set to make her acting debut with Maaee. Directed by Mahesh Kodiyal, the film features Padmini Kolhapure as Asha's daughter.

It is the story of a woman who goes on to live with her daughter and son-in-law after being abandoned by her only son. The film will release soon.

Aamir Khan to make TV debut, joins hand with Star India

Aamir Khan is the latest Bollywood superstar to debut on the small screen as a talk show host.

Aamir has joined broadcast major Star India to anchor a show based on social issues, which will go on air next year.

"Over the last few years, I have been approached for various TV shows, but the offers never excited me. However, this show will be a journey of discovery of change, of emotion and human story which touch and inspire our daily life," Aamir said.

The show will be broadcast simultaneously in eight languages on Star Network channels-- Star Plus, Star World, Star Majha, Star Jalsa and Asia net, among others.

Further details about the show were not disclosed.

"No bollywood star has shown the ability to move the markets with experimentation as much as Aamir has done. Star India is doing a show with him to reinforce the same agenda of creativity and to come with something which is impactfull and engaging," Star India CEO Udhay Shakar told reporters here.Prominent Bollywood figures like Amitabh Bachchan, Shahrukh Khan, Akshay Kumar, Preity Zinta, Hrithik Roshan, Juhi Chawla, Sanjay Dutt and Salman Khan have been associated with television in different roles.

Kate Winslet won't diet

Kate Winslet "refuses" to be skinny.

The curvy actress insists she is not interested in dieting and would rather encourage young girls to have a healthy body image.

She said: "I am not a twig - and refuse to be a twig. I would like young girls who are screwed up about their bodies to think that it's possible to have a healthy shape. Everyone gets a bit screwed up about themselves, physically, when you're growing up.

"I don't do crash diets or eat fish rather than meat and salads until they come out of my ears."

While she won't diet, Kate does work out in order to stay healthy.

She told Reveal magazine: "I do exercise, with plenty of swimming, but never feel that I have the figure of a Hollywood actress."

The 'Contagion' star also admitted she was a very "fat" child.

She recalled: "I was such a fat kid and reached 182lbs at one point. My sisters Anna and Beth would swap clothes but I couldn't. I am the smallest at 5ft 6in and I've got my mum's big feet and my dad's round face."

Carla Bruni gives birth to baby girl

French President Nicolas Sarkozy's wife Carla Bruni has given birth to a baby girl.

Sarkozy, 56, spent half an hour with Bruni shortly after the arrival of their first child on Oct 19, before he headed off for a governmental meeting in Germany with Chancellor Angela Merkel.

The singer/actress is the only First Lady in French history to give birth to a child while married to a president in office.

Bruni, 43, was seen arriving at the Muette Clinic in Paris early in the morning and was later reported to have delivered a baby girl by one of the hospital staff.

Bruni has insisted that she wants very little fuss made about the actual birth, and also said the child will never be pictured, the Daily Express reported.

The music artist already has a 10-year-old son, Aurelien, with former partner Rafael Enthoven.

Sarkozy too has two sons, from his first marriage to Marie-Dominique Culioli, and a third, from his second wife Cecilia Ciganer-Albeniz

Kristen Stewart injured on set

Kristen Stewart has been injured while filming 'Snow White and the Huntsman'.

The details of what happened to the a21-year-old actress are currently unknown, but filming on the production - which also stars Charlize Theron and Chris Hemsworth - has been suspended until Friday .

In a tweet later removed, Max Manganello, who plays a soldier in the film, revealed: "It's a wrap for today. Kristen has hurt herself... nothing scary. We shoot on Friday."

Earlier this month, Kristen admitted she was drained from shooting fight scenes for the movie.

She said: "Basically, I'm fighting evil - I'm fighting the most evil motherf**kers - and it's fine that they're being killed. It's anguish. It's literally f**king anguish. She takes absolutely no pleasure in ever hurting anything.

"I'm exhausted right now and I was thinking, 'The fight stuff is coming up, maybe that won't be so bad.' And then I realised that they're probably going to be my most emotional scenes because I'm killing people and I'm Snow White.

"It's a really f**king cool way to approach a movie where so many people die. Not that I'm criticising violent movies - I love them, generally - but it is nice to do it this way."

Handcuffed!LiLo taken into custody

Lindsay Lohan sported a new accessory on Wednesday after a judge revoked her probation: Handcuffs.

The actor was taken into custody after Superior Court judge Stephanie Sautner revoked her probation because she was ousted from a community service assignment at a women's
shelter.

"There has been violation after violation," Sautner said.Bail was set at $100,000. Lohan's spokesman Steve Honig said it was immediately posted and the actor was later released from Airport Courthouse.

"We're dealing with someone on probation," said Lohan's attorney, Shawn Holley. "Most people on probation don't always do things perfectly."

A city prosecutor recommended jail time, but Sautner set a November 2 hearing to decide whether Lohan should serve another stint behind bars, where she has been sent four previous times only to be released early due to jail overcrowding.

"If jail meant something in the state of California now, maybe I'd put her in jail," Sautner said.

The development marked the latest legal problem for the 25-year-old Lohan, who was given probation for a 2007 drunken driving case and a misdemeanor theft case this year.

"Lindsay is hoping this matter will be resolved on Nov. 2 and the court will reinstate probation and allow her to continue fulfilling her community service," Honig said.

'Esha's the heroine in my house'

Hema Malini has brought together veteran stars like Dharmendra, Vinod Khanna and Rishi Kapoor for her film " Tell Me O Kkhuda". And for the first time Esha will be sharing screen space with Dharmendra in the film that will be produced and directed by her mother. "It is an emotional story that families will love to watch. It's USP is the father-daughter relationship," says Hema.

The actress-turned-director has been actively involved in every aspect of her film. She feels that these days one has to work very hard to get the film before the audience in the best way possible. She stresses, "These days you just can't sit back once the product is ready. You have to give it a proper push. Making a film is easy, but taking it to the audience is like running a marathon. Even two years back it wasn't so competitive as it is today. I don't know much about marketing, but I am learning."

Hema debuted as a director way back in 1992 with "Dil Ashna Hai" that had Shah Rukh Khan and Divya Bharati in the lead. Ask her why she didn't direct for so many years and she replies, "I preferred to be with my daughters who were growing up then, and I continued with my dance. Now that my daughter is an actress I have decided to do a film with her."

Hema continues saying, "A lot of people think I'm making a film for Esha because I want her to be the number one heroine. There is nothing like that. Since she is a heroine in my house, obviously I would want to cast her."

And mama is all praise for her daughter. "I like Esha's athletic figure. She works very hard on it. Her style of acting is far better than mine. I am proud of her performance. Unfortunately, her talent hasn't been exploited well. She wasn't getting interesting roles, and she too, was not choosing her roles properly and was seen in many multistarrers. I stopped her from doing that and made this film. I have my production house and we will continue making more films. I want to make nice, sensitive, sensible, small budget films," says Hema.

"But, it is not necessary that only I will direct Esha. If something nice comes up from other banners, she surely can do it, or if we have a good script, we can also find a good director for her. But I will certainly create more roles for her," signs off the veteran actress.

Sridevi's comeback

Here's a sneak peek at Sridevi's comeback film English Vinglish, directed by R Balki's wife Gauri Shinde.

The film is being shot in New York and will also star Amitabh Bachchan opposite her. A source reveals, "Sridevi and Gauri are bonding majorly during the schedule of the film. Boney won't be joining Sri as he's busy with work."

The film revolves a middle-class Indian housewife with weak English, who becomes the butt of everyone's jokes and how she goes to the US to learn the language.