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.

Shah Rukh Khan : Ready to race

Shah Rukh Khan is going all out to promote upcoming release Ra.One.He has now announced the film's association with the Sahara Force India Formula One team that is participating in the inaugural Indian Grand Prix.

At an exclusive photo shoot, the actor posed with the team's speed demon - the VJM04, seamlessly blending his character from Ra.One with the F1 car.This is the first time that the logo of an Indian film has been beamed proudly on the nose cone of the car. SRK will also be seen in a new TV commercial urging Indians all over the world to support India's first and only F1 team.

Sonam-Abhay patch up...

In a recent film magazine, Sonam Kapoor described Abhay Deol as "the best actor I have ever worked with." We know she is being sarcastic, but then the aam junta is as clever as us.

Let's hope her other co-stars (Abhishek, Shahid, Akshay and Imran) do not take this seriously and feel offended.

But then everyone knows how much this Aisha loves the Deol boy, given how he trashed her home production and dad. Abhay, ready for round two?

Rihanna reunites with ex-boyfriend

Since upcoming British boxer Dudley O’Shaughnessy didn’t bite the bait, it looks like Rihanna has turned back to her old flame Matt Kemp of Los Angeles Dodgerrs to keep her company!

The ex-couple were spotted leaving London strip bar Stringfellows after spending the evening together while Rihanna was on break from the UK leg of her “Loud” Tour. “She’s a good friend of mine,” Kemp told Us Weekly after the couple called it quits last winter.

Meanwhile, during the visit to the strip club, Rihanna got a little carried away and was reprimanded by security. Apparently, the singer got a little touchy with the dancing girls. Witnesses say, “Bouncers weren’t happy as she was repeatedly touching them, ignoring all warnings.”

KP bowled over by India

English cricketer Kevin Pietersen has revealed that he’s overwhelmed by Indian hospitality. The swashbuckling batsman, who is currently touring the country for the ODI series, says that he has been humbled by the hospitality shown to the England cricket squad. “To be honest, Indian people are just so nice, we get treated really well, the cricket is obviously very fortunate and hard as well, I have played 19 One Day Internationals (here)... it is really tough, it tests you mentally,” said Pietersen. “The hotels are fantastic, people so caring, so giving, I mean, Indian people are so hospitable,” he added. The 31-year-old cricketer also admitted that he would like to take part in the Diwali festivities.

All is well for Ileana, Farah Khan

Leading lady Ileana landed in controversy recently with rumours afloat about her attitude on the sets of Nanban in Chennai.

Reports say that she threw tantrums on the sets of the film and cancelled shoots. It seems that Farah Khan, the film’s choreographer, was irked with Ileana. But the inside story is completely different.

Farah Khan and the producer of the film are standing by Ileana saying that she is a thorough professional. DC throws light on what exactly happened on the sets of Nanban. Asked if Ileana was non-cooperative, Farah denied the allegation completely.

“Ileana was co-operative. She was injured on the sets of the film. Despite her injury she managed to finish the shoot. Why will I get irritated with her if she was being a complete professional on the sets. All was well with Ileana during the shoot. At the end of the day, it is Shankar’s film and we all work for him as a team.”

The Nanban crew, including Ileana, has been shooting for six days for the song. A source from the sets of the film says, “Ileana was injured all six days of the shoot. She injured her left knee while she was rehearsing for the song in Mumbai. During the shooting in Chennai, she injured her right knee too. She also hurt her back slipping from the trolley on the sets. Despite all these injuries, she shot for the song and she did not cancel the shoot even for a single day.”

Kiran of Gemini Creations, the producer of Nanban, said that they had absolutely no problem with Ileana. “We had planned six days for the shoot of the song and it was completed on schedule. Ileana did not cause any trouble during the shoot. This is going to be an interesting song in the film and Farah has done a fantastic job.”

While Farah and the producer echo the same sentiment, Ileana is shooting in the US.

The spokesperson from her publicity team summed it up, “She has put her film first and worked through Nanban’s song sequence even though she was injured. This proves her professionalism and her dedication towards her work — this should put an end to all the rumours.”

Rift rumours myth, Akki’s a bro: John

Talk about a fine bromance! After the Akshay Kumar-John Abraham pairing worked successfully in Garam Masala, many in the industry understandably expected them to team up for another film in the near future. However, it took five long years before the pair with the impeccable comic timing was offered another joint project in Desi Boyz. B’town’s wagging tongues attributed it all to Akki’s penchant for snipping the roles of his co-stars, but John has set all that speculation at rest.

“There are always rumours of rivalries and all that when two actors are cast together,” John says with his trademark candour. “But no such thing has happened with Akshay and me before or during Desi Boyz. Not just me, Akki wouldn’t do that to anyone.” John adds, “Akshay has been like an elder brother, his behaviour is so gracious. He has guided me.”

It’s about the money

Kareena Kapoor has had enough. Even though the actress has been crowned as the reigning box office queen in Bollywood, detractors have made several unflattering remarks. Some in the trade also claim that she barely has had a contributing role to the success of blockbusters like 3 Idiots, Bodyguard and Golmaal 3. With Ra.One pegged as another potential top-grosser, Bebo is prepared for critics who’ll say that the film is entirely Shah Rukh Khan’s vision. What’s more, she doesn’t care for the opinion of that school of thought.

“See, I have moved on from that stage where I have to sit and wonder how much business my next film is going to do,” the actress asserts. “Eventually, no review or naysayer is going to change the way the audience accepts Ra.One. I keep hearing that it is expected to do `200 crore worth of business in India alone. Great! If it has to, it will.”

Kareena is also vocal about her indifference towards those who’ve opined that her latest film will not live up to its monumental start. She sighs, “In this industry, it is rare that everyone is happy with the way a film turns out, or its success. The fact of the matter is that there are money making films which do not get five-star reviews, but as long as our fans are going to the theatres and watching our films, nothing else bothers me. I am here to entertain the audience, not engage in rocket science.” Touché Bebo!

A convenient sort of friendship?

After his falling-out with one-time saviour Salman Khan, Govinda has found a new friend to latch on to. Suniel Shetty is the latest recipient of all of Govinda’s praise, and why not, since the former is bankrolling one of the few projects Govinda has in his kitty: Loot. The buzz from the Loot sets is that Chi Chi ensures that Suniel and he spend plenty of quality time together once their shoot for the day wraps up. But Suniel is vocal about the fact that he certainly admires Chi Chi. “He is an amazing actor, and more importantly, a good human being. When I approached Govinda for the film, he asked me, ‘Kab se shuru karna hai (when do I start from?)’”

Our sources tell us that Govinda has been making frequent trips to Suniel’s office. “Govinda has a tendency to get very emotional about people who offer him work,” says an aide. “Earlier it was Salman, now it is Suniel.” Govinda’s supporters however, claim that the actor has always held Suniel in high regard. Whatever the truth, hope the equation sustains.

Bollywood ladies bless Aishwarya Rai at grand baby shower

Actors like Saira Banu, Asha Parekh and Dimple Kapadia, as well as designers like Neeta Lulla and Shaina NC made a beeline at the Bachchan household Jalsa here on Tuesday for the grand baby shower of Aishwarya Rai.

The Bandra house was decorated with flowers, and was packed with people in the afternoon.

Aishwarya is said to have worn an orange-coloured Indian ensemble for the occasion. If guests are to be believed, she looked ethereal, with the glow of any mother-to-be on her face. The actress, married to Abhishek Bachchan, is eight months pregnant.

"Aishwarya was looking like a 'chand ka tukda'. She was looking beautiful. We wish Abhishek and Aishwarya all the best," Saira Banu, who gifted Aishwarya a gold coin, told a news channel.

Choreographer Saroj Khan, who has made Aishwarya dance on songs like Nimbooda, Taal se taal mila and Barso re, shared some scenes from the Bachchan household.

"I have never seen so many celebrity women together. All the women went up to Aishwarya and blessed her. Jayaji received each guest personally and was very warm. Even her daughter, Shweta, gave personal attention to everyone. There were a lot of songs and celebration," said Khan.

The veteran choreographer wasn't just praises for Aishwarya alone, but also for Abhishek, who wore a white sherwani style kurta.

"Aishwarya looked pretty in orange. Her face had such a glow. She was decorated with mogra flowers. Even Abhishek looked extremely happy. God bless them both and may the child have a long life," she added.

Make-up artist Mickey Contractor helped Aishwarya get ready for the special day.

Other guests included Urmila Matondkar, Twinkle Khanna, Sonali Bendre, Manyata Dutt, Ritu Nanda, Neetu Kapoor, Neelam Kothari, Mana Shetty, Vaibhavi Merchant, Poonam Sinha, designer duo Abu Jani-Sandeep Khosla and Karan Johar, among others.

Aishwarya's father-in-law, megastar Amitabh Bachchan, had revealed the news of her pregnancy through his Twitter account in June. The baby is due mid-November.

Shruti Haasan walks out of Dammu

Shruti Haasan has walked out of the NTR-Boyapti film " Dammu". According to the actress' manager, the parting was amicable.

"Shruti had given dates for the film in March and it was scheduled to be completed by November. However, the film shoot began just two weeks ago and the leading lady's schedule hasn't yet been decided," Shruti's manager said.

Emma Watson begins Oxford classes

Actress Emma Watson has started her classes at Britain's Oxford University.

The 21-year-old, best known for playing witch Hermione Granger in the " Harry Potter" franchise, is a student at Rhode Island's Brown University but has transferred to Oxford's Worcester College for a year "abroad", reports contcatmusic.com.

In a post on her official blog published Sunday, Watson told fans that she will be out of the spotlight for a while as she continues her English literature classes.

"To Everyone who is starting a New School Year, (sorry those who have been at school for a while Oxford starts late). Just to say have a great term and good luck with all your work. You might not hear from me for a while because I will be really busy studying but I wanted to just say hi and bye... Love Emma xx," Watson posted.

Ryan Gosling obsessed with jackets

Actor Ryan Gosling says he loves buying new jackets.

"I'm really into jackets. I have a nice collection in my closet. I wore a really stylish jacket in my movie 'Drive'. I was inspired by these Korean souvenir jackets from the 50s. It's this white quilted satin jacket with a scorpion on the back. Check it out when you watch the film," contactmusic quoted Gosling as saying.

However, jackets aren't the only thing the actor is obsessed with - he also has a deep passion for his car.

"I love driving around Los Angeles at night in my car. I love my car. It's a Chevrolet Malibu, which I helped build. I passed the mechanic the tools. I got him lunch. I put some love into that car," he added.

SRK loses his cool at RA.One team

Shah Rukh Khan's opus RA.One is just ten days away from release and the digital intermediation (finishing process of a feature film with a heavy dose of animation in it) is far from the finishing line. And that's what is worrying the King Khan in the middle of his promotional blitzkrieg.

According to a source, Khan on his recent visit to the office where the digital conversion of the film is taking place, lost his cool and was seen giving a piece of his mind to director Anubhav Sinha and his team.

A source informed Mumbai Mirror, "The entire team of Ra.One is under a lot of pressure to complete the film. There are some minor fixes like colour correction left to be done. The film is set for a worldwide release on October 26, so they have to be really fast. Shah Rukh has been keeping a tab on all the post production activities and was very upset to know about this delay."

"Shah Rukh went to the post production and was angry with the team for not meeting the deadline. Anubhav Sinha, who was already in the studio had to face SRK's anger. Later, SRK also motivated them to finish work at the earliest," added the source.

While distributors at various parts of the world are waiting for the digital prints of the film to reach them, back home, the censor board is waiting to see the final print too. "The film has been given a provisional certificate by the censor board.

The team had to see the film in green background (croma) as the postproduction was not over. They still have to see the final copy as the certificate also needs a mention about the length of the film," informed the source.

When contacted, Anubhav Sinha said, "Yes, there are a lot of things happening in the postproduction activities. We all are working hard towards it. But everything is fine

I’ve found my secure space: John Abraham :)

He's in a happy state of mind now, he says. And looks like John Abraham means it, as he opens up about all that's on his mind these days, including how it doesn't matter whether his movies do well at the box-office or not.

"There is no harm in failing - but you need the guts to take failure in your stride. Movie chale, ya na chale, it really doesn't bother me. Have I given it my best? Yes. That's it for me. I've seen such bleak days that I wouldn't want to be back there again, and I have seen success like no one else too," says John, adding, "I've done all sorts of films - from a "7 Khoon Maaf" and an "Aashayein", to an intense " New York" to a "Dostana" and a " Garam Masala". Some of them worked and some didn't. I've worked with the new lot of directors, who think differently about cinema, and those established names as well. I also did a film like Anurag Kashyap's "No Smoking", which had no commercial takers, but found critical acclaim nevertheless. I haven't done regular stuff, and so, I must be ready for the risks that come with it. I'm at a stage where I don't like doing regular. Regular is boring."


Talking about his body, he says, "I weighed a 100 kg when I was shooting for "Force". Now, I'm losing weight. It isn't easy - neither building nor losing. Nishikant (director of "Force") told me that he wanted an international action hero's body, like Sylvester Stallone in "Rocky". And I did that. Now, I'm eight kilos down, but for Sanjay Gupta's "Shootout at Wadala" I will have to build up again." Talking about Gupta, is it true that he met real underworld people to give his film authenticity? "Oh yes. He's like that - meticulous. He met Dawood's brother," says John.

But on a personal note, what matters the most - mental strength or physical? "Mental strength - that's the most important. Of course, the visual idea of strength, the body, also matters, but mental strength is what gives one the grit to pull through. And mental strength, for me, lies in the eyes. You can look into one's eyes and gauge their real strength," says he. And he's mentally strong, isn't he? "Yes. I have been through a lot, but now, I am a secure individual. And after 20 years in the industry, I've found my secure space too... If I weren't mentally strong, I would not have ploughed on, when as an outsider," An outsider? "It's difficult to make one understand, but there's so much of nepotism in B-wood. After a Shah Rukh or an Akshay Kumar, tell me one person not from a filmi family who has survived in the industry. Not one."

Talking of family, he's single, and every time Bipasha's name crops up, he's neatly sidestepped it. "Yes, I can choose not to comment. Look at it this way: It's more than a year to that part or phase of my life. And I am not the kind to look back. I have moved on." Moved on, meaning? "Moving on means exactly that. Everyone does that in life - moves on. Yes, I'm now single. And no, that doesn't mean I am consciously seeking out potential candidates. But definitely, if I find the right woman, I would marry her tomorrow. But I am not planning out my personal life right now. I am planning my career. I have "Desi Boyz", and "Housefull 2" and after that, "Race 2" and the movie I am producing, "I, Me Aur Main"," says the actor.

Race 2 stuck in a date trap..........

Deepika Padukone seems to have made her way into the cast for the second time. Dippy, who had walked out of the film, choosing to allocate her dates to Ayaan Mukerji's Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani instead of the Saif Ali Khan starrer, has been summoned back by the filmmakers.

In fact, the schedules have been rearranged and her original remuneration has been substantially enhanced to get the actress back in the project, claim sources.

A source told Mumbai Mirror, "Deepika felt that her pairing with Saif needs a break after Love Aaj Kal, Aarakshan and Homi Adjania's film (tentatively titled Cocktail). When the dates for Race 2 and Ayan's film clashed, she opted for the latter."

The Race 2 producers, the Taurani's were however, adamant on getting Deepika back on the project, revealed the source. In fact, they were willing to adjust the dates and comply with all her requirements to ensure that she stays with the film.

"Rumours about Priyanka Chopra replacing Deepika hasn't gone down too well with the Tauranis. They sat down with Deepika and sorted out all the problems. They even agreed to enhance her remuneration," added the source.

Ramesh Taurani admitted that there were problems regarding Deepika's dates, which have been sorted out. "Deepika is very much a part of Race 2," said the filmmaker.

The date adjustment for Deepika seems to have shattered Sonakshi Sinha's dream to shed her village belle avatar, which has stuck with her since her debut with Dabangg, and don the glam doll look for Abbas Mustan's Race 2. Due to date problems, Shatrughan Sinha's little daughter has had to opt out of the action thriller.

Not so long ago, Sonakshi, happy with her role in Race 2 had said, "I believe as an actress one must do different roles. I wanted to change my image from a traditional girl to a glamorous one. So I signed Race 2."

However, the actress has now opted out of the project due to date issues. According to sources, Race had been pushed to June for Deepika and since Dabangg 2 starts in March 2012, Sonakshi had to choose between an image makeover and Salman Khan. Needless to say, the young actress chose the man who helped her become an overnight star with her debut film than a new glam doll avatar.

Sonakshi's manager confirmed that Sonakshi is indeed opted out of the Abbas Mustan project and revealed, "The dates of the film have been pushed to June. Deepika has allotted her dates accordingly. This clashes with Sonakshi's important schedule for Dabangg 2. She cannot change her dates now according to the requirement of Race 2."

When contacted, Ramesh Taurani, producer of Race 2, said, "Yes, Sonakshi has date issues. She has spoken to us about the same. I am trying to sort it out, but I can't say anything more at this moment."

A friend of Sonakshi added, "Surely, Salman Khan's film is more important to Sonakshi. She flagged off her career with Dabangg. She definitely can't ditch the sequel. In fact it is one of the most awaited projects of 2012."

Dippy goes missing

After walking the ramp for designer Wendell Rodericks at a fashion event in Delhi last week, Deepika Padukone did a disappearing act scaring everybody in her team.

Unreachable over the phone for 24 hours, it was later found out that Deepika had escaped to her favourite place, the Taj Mahal and switched her cellphone off.

A source informed, "Deepika is normally very responsible. She always informs her office about her whereabouts. But last week she did the unthinkable."

"The day after she walked the ramp for Wendell Rodericks, she got up finished all her work and asked her staff to leave. No one knows what happened next. Except for that Deepika went missing. In fact, she was untraceable for the next 24 hours," added the source

"Her team was really worried. They were frantically looking for her. They even thought of calling her parents up. Luckily, she called up just in time to inform hat she was safe," told the source.

Dippy it seems had escaped to Agra. "Deepika loves the Taj. She visits Agra frequently. She always plans a trip to the Taj when she is in Delhi or anywhere close to Agra. But this time she hadn't planned on visiting the place. So when she disappeared all of a sudden, her team got really worried," added the source. -KMS