Actress and animal lover Raveena Tandon has added to her five pets by adopting a street puppy.

"Brought a rescued puppy home last night, unbelievable how much joy a little puppy brings into a household, he joins our family," the 37-year-old posted on Twitter.

Raveena, who is married to film distributor Anil Thadani, says her daughters have already decided the name of the new pet.

"He joins our family of 5 (pets), and my daughters have named him Cuddles Thadani," she added. – IANs

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Producer Karan Johar's latest movie Agneepath is a remake of the 1990 Hindi film of the same name. Many were keeping their finger crossed to know whether debutant director Karan Malhotra will be able to do justice to the original cult classic. He has really done a remarkable job in the new version of the film.

Agneepath is a revenge drama, which dwells on strong emotions and aggressive and forceful action. The stellar performances of Hrithik Roshan and Sanjay Dutt are the major highlight of the film. Ajay-Atul's music, Ravi K Chandran's cinematography, wonderfully choreographed fights and dance sequences, Piyush Mishra's commanding dialogues, beautiful costumes, locales and makeup work are its other attractions.

Except on big change, Karan Malhotra has remained very honest to the original movie Agneepath. Yet the film looks very fresh and entertaining. The director has dropped a character named Krishnan Iyer MA, which was played by Mithun Chakraborty in the original. Instead, he has introduced a negative role - Rauf Lala (Rishi Kapoor), who makes the narration more volatile and explosive.

Vijay Dinanath Chauhan (Hrithik Roshan) is an angry young man in a small village Mandwa. But he leaves the village after evil drug dealer Kancha (Sanjay Dutt) hangs his father (Chetan Pandit) to death. Vijay joins the team of gang lord Rauf Lala (Rishi Kapoor) in Mumbai. He makes necessary preparation to take revenge upon Kancha. His best friend Kaali (Priyanka Chopra) stands by him at every moment in his life. He returns to his village after 15 years. What happens next will form an interesting portion of the film.

As Vijay Dinanath Chauhan, Hrithik Roshan has given superb performance. He has not tried to copy Amitabh Bachchan from the original. He has his own distinct way of portraying this role. As brutal Kancha, Sanjay Dutt is electrifying and all thanks to his superb makeup. This role is yet another turning point in his career. Although Priyanka Chopra has less scope in the movie, she has used it to impress the audience. Rishi Kapoor has also delivered an exceptional performance. Zarina Wahab, Om Puri others are also good in their respective languages.

In the technical front, Ajay-Atul's music is the main highlight. The duo's compositions like Deva Shree Ganesha and Chikni Chameli are picks of the lot. Their background score is exhilarating. Abbas Ali Moghul's action, Ravi K Chandran's camera work and Piyush Mishra's dialogue are also plus point of the film.

In the nutshell, Agneepath can be described as a master piece and it is a fitting tribute to the original.

Producer: Karan Johar

Director: Karan Malhotra

Cast: Hrithik Roshan, Priyanka Chopra, Sanjay Dutt, Rishi Kapoor, Zarina Wahab, Om Puri, Deven Bhojani and Katrina Kaif

Music: Ajay-Atul

Signs of swelling dissent are already evident. The first promotional trailer of Tezz has Ajay Devgn and Anil Kapoor in spotlight, while Mohanlal is seen fleetingly. This has evoked protest all over micro-blogging sites, creating a mild panic situation in the production team, says a source."We never expected this kind of an uproar. Mohanlal has a cameo in Tezz and that's how he was shown in the first promo… in fleeting shots! But the uproar from his fans in the south on Facebook and Twitter has taken the producers by surprise. New trailers are now being planned where Mohanlal will be as prominent as Ajay," said the source. Incidentally, this is not the first time Devgn has been compelled to share poster space with Mohanlal. In Ram Gopal Varma's Company, the same north-south divide had transpired.

Tezz producer Ratan Jain admits to being taken aback by the uproar. "Frankly we didn't expect this. We didn't mean to undermine Mohanlalji's stature at all. He sportingly agreed to play a cameo because of his proximity to Priyadarshan. The heroes of our film are Ajay Devgn and Anil Kapoor. But if Mohanlalji's fans are upset, we've to do something about it," Jain said. "We're taking care of the situation. The next promo will feature Mohanlalji prominently." An interesting sidelight to the Mohanlal-Devgn poster war is that Tezz was meant to be pitched as Devgn's next action film after Singham. But now with the Mohanlal fans demanding attention to him in the promotional footage, it would be difficult to hightlight the action aspect in the plot. "We're looking into it. We need to be fair to all our actors," said Jain. Now, we are sure with this, Mohanlal's fans will have no complains.

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In a small Indian village called Mandwa, Vijay Dinanath Chauhan (Hrithik Roshan) is taught by his principled father about the path of fire – Agneepath. His life is completely shattered when the evil drug dealer Kancha (Sanjay Dutt) hangs his father to death. Vijay leaves for Bombay with his pregnant mother and has only one mission in life – to return to Mandwa and bring back the glory of his father's name.

In Bombay, 12-year-old Vijay is taken under the wings of the city ganglord Rauf Lala (Rishi Kapoor). From then on, it is a journey of revenge where he makes and breaks many relationships only to get closer to his aim. Vijay finds support only in his best friend Kaali (Priyanka Chopra), who stands by him at every moment in his life. Fifteen years later his hatred for Kancha takes him back to Mandwa where life comes full circle.

VIDEOS

AGNEEPATH new song: Deva Shree Ganesha

AGNEEPATH dialogue promo: Sanjay Dutt is scary!

'Gun gun guna': Priyanka Chopra cheers Hrithik Roshan up

'O Saiyyan' song: Hrithik Roshan and Priyanka Chopra's romance is intense

AGNEEPATH new trailer: Hrithik Roshan, Sanjay Dutt are impressive

Chikni Chameli: full song from Agneepath

Katrina Kaif as 'Chikni chameli' in 'Agneepath' item song teaser

AGNEEPATH: First trailer

PICTURES

Sanjay Dutt promotes 'Agneepath'

Hrithik Roshan announces Agneepath's association with McDonald's

Priyanka Chopra sees red!

Sanjay Dutt's tryst with the guitar!

Hrithik Roshan, Priyanka Chopra, Sanjay Dutt at 'Agneepath' second theatrical promo launch

Hrithik, Sanjay, Priyanka at the first look of 'Agneepath'

NEWS & GOSSIP

Hrithik Roshan eager to show 'Agneepath' remake to Big B

Hrithik Roshan: Buttering up god is not enough

What will Karan Johar gift Katrina Kaif?

Priyanka Chopra does what mom says!

Hrithik Roshan to walk the ramp for kids

Hrithik Roshan's secret to looking sexy!

Why is Hrithik Roshan avoiding Shahrukh Khan?

Hrithik Roshan's sister reveals key 'Agneepath' twist!

Priyanka Chopra has no illusions about her role in 'Agneepath'

Katrina Kaif had injured herself during 'Chikni Chameli' shoot

Priyanka Chopra is a happy heroine!

Rishi Kapoor defends Hrithik Roshan

Are you the biggest 'Chikni Chameli' fan?

Is Katrina Kaif copying Rakhi Sawant?

Sanjay Dutt found it difficult to play Kancha Cheena

Do you think Katrina Kaif's latest sizzler 'Chikni Chameli' is in bad taste?

Katrina Kaif sizzles again in 'Agneepath' item song: 'Chikni Chameli'

Agneepath music rights with Sony Music India

Hrithik Roshan's 'Agneepath' to release globally

Katrina Kaif sizzles as 'Chikni Chameli' in 'Agneepath'

Hrithik Roshan beats Shahrukh Khan and Aamir Khan

Priyanka Chopra plays Maharashtrian bride again, this time to Hrithik Roshan

How can you get Hrithik, John, Aamir's beefed-up muscles?

How can you get Hrithik, John, Aamir's beefed-up muscles?

Katrina does another item number, this time in 'Agneepath'

Agneepath trailer breaks records

'Agneepath' teaser gets 650,000 hits online in 48 hours

What we loved about 'The Dirty Picture', 'Agneepath' and 'Rockstar' trailers!

Karan Johar prepared for purists' outrage

Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy booted out of Dharma Productions?

Do you like Sanjay Dutt's 'Agneepath' look?

'Agneepath' has little resemblance to the original

Rishi Kapoor plays a bad man in 'Agneepath' remake

Will the new 'Agneepath' create as much noise as 'Kaho Naa…Pyaar Hai'?

Karan Johar wanted sex…

Is Karan Johar facing an identity crisis?

Where has the Sanjay Dutt from 'Vaastav' gone?

Is a Hrithik-SRK war starting?

INTERVIEWS & FEATURES

Did Hrithik Roshan ever look fat and flabby?

Rajaysh Tondon: I wanted to touch Priyanka Chopra's feet!

Who's a better Vijay Deenanath Chauhan: Hrithik Roshan or Amitabh Bachchan?

Priyanka Chopra: 'Kaali' is the soul of 'Agneepath'

'Agneepath' music composers Ajay-Atul on 'Chikni Chameli'

Priyanka Chopra, Vidya Balan dazzle in a half sari

Katrina Kaif: It's great that Salman loves 'Chikni Chameli'

Does 'Chikni Chameli' have the fire of the original Marathi 'Kombdi palali'?

Why can't Katrina Kaif look cheap doing bold dance moves?

Aamir Khan, Shahrukh Khan, Sanjay Dutt – who is the coolest villain?

Amitabh Bachchan will love this 'Agneepath': Karan Johar

Mithun Chakraborty comments on the 'Agneepath' remake

Ganesha – a Bollywood favourite

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It all started with a journalist calling Bipasha 'fat'. The Bong beauty took the comment very seriously and decided to get in shape – fast and without a professional trainer. Little did the actor know that the quickest way is seldom the right way. "I had no knowledge about health and fitness and even went on crash diets. Suddenly I started getting excruciating pain in my knees, with days I could barely stand. I spoke to Hrithik Roshan, Shahrukh Khan and many other colleagues who recommended top doctors," Bipasha says.

An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) reported that Bipasha was suffering from osteoarthritis. "My knees had become like that of a 65-year-old person," Bipasha said. Tch tch! The dusky actor who continues to be under therapy has learnt a lesson, albeit the hard way.  "You realise that being beautiful and sexy is not all that matters. Rather, you need to respect the body you are born with," she laments. Guess the new lot of B-town beauties, who have been killing themselves over becoming stick thin, need to learn from Bips' lesson!

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Talk about getting innovative. Actor Imran Khan has launched a video travelogue – Ek Main Aur Ekk Star, through which he will share his experiences while promoting his forthcoming film Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu across the nation and abroad. As part of the promotional tour, Imran will travel to Dubai, New York, Britain and cities across India. He will document his journey, which will be uploaded on UTV and Dharma Productions' YouTube accounts.

Ek Main Aur Ekk Star will capture "the highs, the lows, the late nights, the pre-dawn scrambles for flights, the ecstasy, the euphoria, stress and the struggles that Imran experiences," said a press statement. Each video that will be shot, edited and uploaded on the trip, will be an honest account of life on the road. Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu is a lighthearted movie about a boy (Imran Khan) in his mid-twenties, going through a breakdown in his personal as well as professional life. That's when he meets a girl (Kareena Kapoor), and his life goes topsy-turvy.  The film releases February 10.

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Kollywood superstar Dhanush has signed his first Bollywood film. Around three decades ago, south Superstar Rajinikanth had done the same thing. He had even enjoyed considerable success with films like Andha Kanoon, Geraftaar, Chaalbaaz and Hum, but later returned to Tamil cinema. Of course, Dhanush, who made a splash in non-Tamil speaking regions recently with his Why this kolaveri di?, claims he signed his Hindi film before the song became a craze. But hey, that's what they all say, don't they? Anyway, he will be making his debut with Tanu Weds Manu director Anand L Rai's next film, Raanjhnaa. The film is set in Benares, and you may wonder if Dhanush can be convincing as a north Indian, but the director has no such qualms. Anand decided on Dhanush after he saw his National Film Award-winning performance in Aadukalam. "He looks very ordinary and honest, and that was the demand of the character," said Anand.

Dhanush too is confident he can give a good performance, even though he doesn't know Hindi. He believes that once he becomes familiar with the culture of the north, he will be able to learn the language easily. That's why he has even planned to employ a tutor to help him out. He is excited about Raanjhnaa and says it is a "big launch" for him. Considering that Anand's last film was a sleeper hit and not a blockbuster, we wonder what makes him say that.

ALSO READ: Akshay Kumar not interested in buying rights to Kolaveri di

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The petite actor says that she feels reluctant to accept her mistakes, and say 'sorry' in their relationship. While Kunal feels that possessiveness in every relationship is important. "I am very proud and find it extremely difficult to say the word 'sorry'. I usually end up arguing a lot in the bargain," Soha said. "In fact, in our relationship, I have said the least number of 'sorries' as compared to Kunal. But it's something I'm working on…I'm learning to say 'sorry' more often to Kunal," she added. To which Kunal, who was present on the show too said, "Aha…finally you admit! And this time on national television."

The duo, who were featured in films like 99 and Dhoondte Reh Jaoge, has dodged the cameras for a long time, but this will be one of their rare appearances together on the small screen. Kunal feels to sustain any relationship, it is important to be possessive about each other. While hearing out the woes of the female on the show, he told her: "If you aren't possessive at all about your lover, then there is reason to be worried. It just goes to show that you don't really care." Superstar Santa, which deals with issues relating to friends, families and romantic relationships, features celebrities solving the issue at hand.

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Ormax Media's consumer based year-end report – Front Page 2011 charts top 10 favorite Bollywood films of 2011

BestMediaInfo Bureau | Delhi | January 24, 2012

According to Ormax Media's consumer based year-end report – Front Page 2011, Singham is the top favorite film of Bollywood audiences in 2011. Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara and Rockstar take the next two positions.

The ranking of the top 10 favorite Bollywood films of 2011 was derived basis the 'Word of Mouth' (WOM) score of the film, using data collected through consumer research throughout the year. The WOM score represents the % audiences who liked the film enough to recommend it strongly to their friends.

While box office business is heavily influenced by the opening weekend of a film, the WOM score reflects the audience feedback on the content alone, irrespective of the marketing or the distribution of the film. The table below captures the Top 10 favorite films of 2011, as decided on the basis of audience WOM score.

Rohit Shetty's Singham, starring Ajay Devgan in the title role, wins the top spot. The film has a significant lead over the more multiplex-skewed Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara and Rockstar. The next three positions are occupied by the big grossers of the year, with Salman Khan's Ready and Bodyguard just a notch ahead of Don 2.

The latter half of the chart consists of more experimental films that lacked a big star. In particular, No One Killed Jessica performs creditably at no. 7. It is the only film in this list that had an opening weekend of less than Rs. 15 crore, yet found appreciation on the strength of its content.

Commenting on the results, Shailesh Kapoor, CEO – Ormax Media said, "There are various award shows that give away Best Film awards. However, this ranking is based on structured consumer data from more than 32,000 cine-goers across India. There can't be a bigger award than this!"

Bollywood@BestMediaInfo.com

But the sexy sultry denied all the stories circulating about featuring in Rowdy Rathore which is a remake of hit Telugu film Vikramarkudu which was also a remake of the Tamil film Siruthai.Directed by Prabhu Deva, the popular south Indian actor-choreographer-director, Rowdy Rathore features Akshay in a dual role- that of an honest police officer and a mischievous thief. This role was played by Ravi Teja in the Telugu and Karthi in the Tamil versions. "No one has approached me as far as Rowdy Rathore is concerned. The fact is that I have not spoken or met Prabhu Deva till date. And even if I am approached, I am in not in any mood to item numbers now," said the Mirapakay actor.

Interestingly, Richa is playing the female lead in the Bengali version of the same film, which has Prosenjit as the protagonist. "I am happy to make my debut in my home industry with this film. It is a meaty role and I am thrilled about it," she further added. The Osthe and Mayakkam Enna actor has already begun shooting for the Bengali version.

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By Sonali Joshi and Vivek Kar

Last updated at 9:24 AM on 24th January 2012

That was then: Former partners John Abraham and Bipasha Basu

Bipasha Basu and John Abraham defined the term 'super couple' in Bollywood much before Saifeena arrived.

Eight years of love and a much hyped break-up later, both Bipasha and John had moved on and found new partners.

While Bipasha was rumoured to be dating South star Rana Daggubati, John was supposedly involved with Asin and most recently, an investment banker from the U.S.

But now, both of them are 'officially single' and enjoying it.

Bipasha chose to give her take on love. She said: 'I can teach everyone the language and lessons of love, very well. For me, love is very important. I think my biggest priority in life is love. And it's not just man-woman love, but love for family, friends, work etc.'

Bips and John were always seen hand in hand, complementing each other's presence at all occasions till they broke up in early 2011.

But, when the relationship was on the rocks, the rift was too evident, laid bare for sundry and all to see.

Rumours reached a point when talks were such that John refused to work with Bips.

Without any hard feelings, Bipasha added: 'I believe that if one relationship doesn't work out then that is not the end of the world. You have to move on. Like how I am celebrating being single this season.'

True to it, Bipasha surely doesn't need any man in her life as she had a great time with her girlfriends as she celebrated her birthday earlier this month.

* * *

Bipasha Basu had to cancel her busy shooting schedule because of conjunctivitis.

'Contracted conjunctivitis in the morning, had to cancel my shoot. Feel helpless as we have so much work pending. These are times you realise the stress of a job of an actor! Entire unit waiting for you and you don't have specific answer to give (sic),' Bipasha tweeted.

The 33-year-old actress also thanked fans for liking her new item song song, Bipasha Bipasha choreographed by Bosco-Ceaser.

'Thank you all for loving Bipasha the song from Jodi Breakers! (sic),' she added.

Ameesha Patel

They say what goes around comes around. And Ameesha Patel couldn't agree more.

The actress, who had once slammed Kareena Kapoor for playing a prostitute in Chameli, will be playing a sex worker for her home production.

Ameesha had announced two movies under her newly formed production banner Ameesha Patel Productions, along with her friend Kunal Goomer.

One will be directed by Priyadarshan and another by David Dhawan.

Ameesha will be playing a prostitute for the latter. The film is likely to go on floor in April and will be shot in Prague.

The 36- year-old will be visiting the country soon to know more about their culture and mannerism as her character will be based in Prague.

David will start working on the film once he wraps up his Chashme Baddoor remake. So far this year is looking pretty good for Ameesha. She has many big films in her kitty as of now.

* * *

If you want to look right, you have to learn to love your body, says model-turned-Bollywood item girl Yana Gupta.

'Love yourself unconditionally. If you look in the mirror and don't like what you see, you don't start it... It all starts with the love, energy and the relaxation that comes into your life with loving yourself,' Yana said at the Jaipur Literature Festival.

Glowing after her battle to get the right body and inner calm, she lent a touch of glamour to the literature gala where she dropped in to promote her book, How to Love Your Body and Have the Body You Love - a fitness guide book published by Penguin India.

* * *

R Madhavan

R. Madhavan charmed the ladies with his small but power packed performance in Rang De Basanti.

He followed that up with significant roles in Guru, Mumbai Meri Jaan and 13B.

More recently he was seen in Tanu weds Manu opposite Kangna Ranaut, moving away from serious genre. Soon, he will be seen in Jodi Breakers, an offbeat comedy.

Talking about the story he said: 'If there can be agents for marriage, they should be there for divorce too. In the film, we don't create break-ups but try to get the two people apart who are not satisfied in life. We give them another chance.'

The film was initially titled Shaadi Fast Forward but the makers settled for Jodi Breakers to give it a unique feel.

The Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif starrer Ek Tha Tiger's next schedule will be in Cuba.

Director Kabir Khan intends to shoot his romantic thriller in five different cities and had shot for the first long schedule in Turkey and Ireland.

Well-travelled: Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif

The entire crew is expected to be in Cuba for a month to finish second schedule from February 2, which will have some hardcore action sequence.

It is said that not too many films have been shot at the location and that is why Kabir was willing to explore it.

Iraq and India will be next stop for the crew. Ek Tha Tiger has been touted as Salman's next big Eid release.

Neil Nitin Mukesh

Neil Nitin Mukesh confirmed that he is doing the sequel of Tigmanshu Dhulia's Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster a few days back.

Neil was going to play a Rajputana Prince in the movie, but the latest update is that he has been replaced by Irrfan Khan.

Reports suggest that Neil was looking too young for the role and hence was replaced. Tigmanshu has worked with Irrfan in Charas and Haasil earlier.

By Simply Woman, IndiaToday, Updated: 23/01/2012Katrina Kaif on her expectations from the New Year, her fitness regime and beauty secrets.

Like everyone else, the New Year is all about starting afresh for me. I don't believe in making resolutions, I believe in making goals because the moment one misses the mark on a resolution, one feels like a failure. With a goal, a missed mark is just a temporary setback. The difference lies in mentality-one is psychologically devastating, and the other can be mobilising.

The year 2012 is an exciting yet hectic time for me. The release of movies like Ek Tha Tiger, Dhoom 3 and the Dostana sequel are going to keep me on my toes. Also there will be shooting schedules, various other personal and professional commitments that will keep me extremely busy all year round.

I did not plan such a busy year, but it just happened to be so because of my professional commitments. I took on all my projects after listening to the scripts, focusing on the characters, and liking all the facets of experimentation that a role had to offer. So it's natural for me to be excited as not only am I part of mega projects, but I also look forward to working harder in 2012.

While working hard and keeping really long hours round the clock, my challenge this year will be to ensure that I take time out for myself for a work-out that involves yoga. It keeps me fresh and fit and I believe that a healthy mind and a healthy diet are mandatory if you want to be beautiful. My beauty regime is quite simple.

When not shooting, I never wear make-up and I keep things natural. I start my day with four glasses of water, avoid foods with starch and focus on having fresh boiled vegetables. If I get hungry, I eat fruits. The way one looks, honestly, has a lot to do with how one feels.

When one is at peace with themselves, it immediately reflects on their face. I believe in inner peace and that is happiness for me. The sense of contentment, being grounded and the realisation that you are important just the way you are, no more or no less, is the kind of wholesome beauty that I strive to achieve and propagate.

As told to Swati Chaturvedi.

Source:

www.indiatoday.in

Mixing business with pleasure is usually not a good idea and for the longest time Shahrukh Khan has been working with his coterie of friends more than on films that challenged him. Buzz is that after all these years of being shortchanged by his so-called 'friends' who have been literally living off his popularity and superstardom, Shah Rukh Khan wants to turn his production company, Red Chillies Entertainment, into a full-blown Bollywood film studio, which will have a vision that will surpass the likes of UTV, Dharma Productions or even Yash Raj Films.

News is that King Khan is looking at hiring someone to take over this dream, a head of operations who will not only share his grand vision, but also ensure that it works. Unlike the usual one or two films that his production company churns out every year, SRK wants to up the ante and make more. He might not act in most of them, but he will be an integral part of each nevertheless. The mantra being thrown around in the Red Chillies boardroom is 'minimise outside commitments'. Does it imply that Yash Chopra and Karan Johar will not be Shahrukh's top priorities any longer? Where does SRK wish to lead his company to? Which is that pot of gold at the end of the rainbow? Will it cause more films like RA.One to be made? While the last concern sent a chill down our collective spine, we are hoping that SRK manages to achieve what he wants and keeps us entertained like he always does.

Click here to find out Who will Shahrukh Khan's heroine be in Rohit Shetty's Chennai Express?

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In the film industry, there's a golden rule which everyone must follow: never say never. And there are examples galore to prove this.

Katrina Kaif proved her detractors wrong with Sheila Ki Jawani and Chikni Chameli.

Katrina Kaif was never known to be a dancer. In fact, so awkward was her dancing even after she had made a comfortable place for herself in people's hearts that she was often referred to as the girl with two left feet. People, including the industry folk, thought, she would never be able to overcome this handicap of hers. But the beautiful actress proved all her detractors wrong when she danced with unprecedented grace on the Sheila ki jawani song from Tees Maar Khan. In the latest Chikni Chameli song from Agneepath, Katrina seems to have surpassed herself. So vigorously, so energetically and yet so gracefully, that's how the lass has gyrated as Chameli!

Saif Ali Khan has come a long way from Aashik Aawara to Aarakshan.

Take the case of Saif Ali Khan. To say that his acting was awkward, his diction was faulty, his pronunciations were bad wouldn't be an exaggeration. But all this was when he entered the film industry. People thought, Sharmila Tagore's son would never be able to make a place for himself in Bollywood, what with such negative qualities. But over the years, Saif has improved a great deal. His acting now looks stylish and effortless, his diction has improved, his pronunciations may be slightly anglicised but coming from Saif, they sound good. He looks suave and sexy today. So, all those who said, Saif would never make his mark, had to eat humble pie, besides watching and applauding the actor's solo as well as multi-starrers.

Madhuri Dixit delivered numerous flops like Abodh before becoming the Dhak Dhak girl.

Madhuri Dixit accelerated heart beats of guys in her heyday but one cannot forget her numerous flops before she tasted success in Tezaab and Ram Lakhan to become the darling of the masses and classes alike. Films like Abodh, Awara Baap, Swati, Mohre, Hifazat and Uttar Dakshin did little for Madhuri who was to later become the Dhak-dhak girl of Bollywood. Who would've imagined that the flop star of at least half a dozen films would emerge as the numero uno in the years to come? Whoever saw her in her earlier films felt, she lacked sex appeal and oomph and would, therefore, never ever make a mark. But one blockbuster, and the trade and public alike realised that Madhuri had all the sex appeal needed in a Bollywood actress, including in her eyes! From Madhuri Big-shit, the girl had overnight become the sexy and successful Madhuri Dixit.

People felt that Amitabh Bachchan didn't possess the 'X' factor.

The biggest of them all, Amitabh Bachchan, also had to face humiliation from an insensitive industry which refused to see beyond his lanky physique and, therefore, was unwilling to give him break as an actor. He didn't have the looks, they said. He didn't have the charisma, they opined. He didn't possess the star qualities, the 'X' factor, they felt. How then could he ever become an actor, they asked. But Bachchan bowled everyone over with his talent to become the topmost star of the country. He didn't remain a star, he became a superstar, so big in stature that nobody before him or after him can claim to have equalled him! Even today, he is considered one of the most charismatic actors the Hindi film industry has ever known in its over-100-year history!

There are many more examples to prove how risky it is to say 'never' in this industry. For, one would never know what the future has in store for someone. Improvement is an ongoing process here and one is eternally a student, learning and bettering his art. The public has simply to accept something or someone, after which even the impossible becomes possible. So, the next time you feel like saying 'never', pause for a second! When all the examples of cases considered hopeless but who finally struck gold, come to your mind, chances are, you would never want to say 'never'.

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UTV's Open Bid For Akshay Kumar's Joker, Kareena's Heroine (Exclusive)

Komal Nahta, the Editor of Koimoi.com, is Bollywood's most trusted trade analyst & film reviewer. You can follow him on Twitter and check out his Video Blog.

Seen in a body-hugging black T-shirt teamed with an insipid long grey jacket, the actor looked haggard and pale. The wrinkles and double chin showed and the zest to party was clearly missing. If not presentable, this once-upon-a-time bootilicious babe could have at least made sure that she wore the right bra beneath her top. The unkempt hair and the cellulite that keeps accumulating with every passing day….wethinks what's affecting Manisha are her incorrigible habits that we have read so much about. Known for her smoking and alcohol addiction, the Saudagar superstar also has a series of failed relationships to her credit, which is probably one of the main reasons for her stressed-out appearance.

Rumours suggest that the Nepalese actor is working really hard to save her marriage with businessman hubby Samrat Dahal. After a spate of bad affairs, the 41-year-old – we presume – wants to settle down like any other normal woman and experience a happy family life. While we do feel a li'l guilty pointing out her fashion faux pas so directly, wethinks that if everyone can do it, she might take some effort to work on her health and bring the old chirpy and incredibly pretty Manisha back to life. And next time, darling, you might want to shun the messy look and find the rights undies – what you show us here is nothing less than horrible!

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The TV commercial has been created by O&M and it plays on the spontaneity and free spirit of today's youth portrayed by new brand ambassador Katrina Kaif

BestMediaInfo Bureau | Delhi | January 24, 2012

Titan has always kept pace with the times and come out with interesting television commercials. This time, too, the brand does not miss out on that element as it celebrates 'Life is now'. The ad features the elegant Katrina Kaif, who is the new brand ambassador for the brand.

The TVC, made by Ogilvy & Mather, opens with Katrina getting an SMS from her friend saying that his flight has been cancelled and they should postpone their trip. However, Katrina, instead of calling off her plans, puts on her Titan Raga watch and heads to her mother's place. And the mother-daughter duo take off on a spontaneous road trip. The music in the background plays "I don't know where I'm going but I like the direction". In the end the message comes across: Life is now!

Joono Simon, Executive Creative Director, Ogilvy & Mather, Bangalore, said, "The film portrays Katrina as a young, 21st century woman with an independent and impulsive spirit, who celebrates optimism with the courage to pursue her own happiness. The fictional narrative of the film is unpretentious, capturing all emotions faithfully and with striking simplicity."

Ajoy Chwala, Vice-President, Titan, said, "Titan celebrates spontaneity, vibrancy and the free spiritedness of today's youth. 'Life is now' captures the mood of today's men and women who want to live every moment and share it with their loved ones."

The campaign just does not give out a message that life is about living in the moment, but that one should make each moment count no matter what the circumstances. It also brings in a dash of freshness and the lively music at the end makes it another clutter-breaking TVC from the house of Titan. Overall, the TVC has been well executed and is successful in leaving a lasting impact.

Apart from the TVC, the company also plans to run this campaign on Internet and in cinema halls. The print campaign, on the other hand, features the buttery-skinned actress but is more about showcasing the recent collection rather than the messaging. As a result, the print ads are slightly different in approach.

The TVC:

Creative Agency: Ogilvy & Mather, Bangalore
Director of the film: Prakash Verma
Media Planning: Maxus

Info@BestMediaInfo.com

Amid the rumours of their 'special' friendship, Shah Rukh Khan and Priyanka Chopra alighted the stage with their rocking performance at the Zee Cine Awards. Bollywood was in full attendance at the Zee Cine Awards held in Macau on Saturday. Rumoured flames Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina Kaif set the stage on fire with their entertaining acts.

Ranbir enthralled the audience with his first live performance on songs like Bachna Ae Haseeno, Sadda Haq

and Prem Ki Naiya.

The Kapoor boy's performance in Rockstar earned him the Best Actor (Popular) award. Rockstar also bagged awards for Best Director, Best Film (Popular), Best Music (AR Rahman), Best Singer (Mohit Chauhan for Jo Bhi Main) and Best Lyrics.

Katrina Kaif sizzled on stage with her Chikni Chameli act and left everyone wanting more. The Sheila girl was honoured with International Icon Female award.

Later, Ranbir joined Shahid Kapoor on the stage and the duo paid a tribute to late Shammi Kapoor and Dev Anand.

The hosts for the evening were Don co-stars Priyanka Chopra and Shah Rukh Khan.

The awards will air on February 5 on Zee TV.

Looks like gorgeous babe Sonam Kapoor is not quite happy with the label of a style icon. She thinks that the tag comes with a lot of responsibilities. Given the fact that she's only been in the industry for four years, she finds it quite scary and overwhelming that people have already started calling her iconic. However she feels it is more important to prove herself as a good citizen first. The actor also emphasizes that it's more important to be a responsible person and that style is secondary.

The babe who's always taken the unconventional route when it comes to style was recently spotted at a derby event in a coral red sari and silver jewellery. On asking why didn't she opt for the usual stylish hats and floor length gowns which women usually wear in these kind of events, she said, "Everyone wears a predictable dress and hat and comes to the derby. I said why don't I do it the old Indian style where they used to wear cotton and chiffon saris." We think the actor is just being modest, and we suggest her not to 'coz once the crown of a fashionista goes to someone else, you are definitely going to miss it Sonam!

With inputs from agencies

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Mixing business with pleasure is usually not a good idea and for the longest time Shahrukh Khan has been working with his coterie of friends more than on films that challenged him. Buzz is that after all these years of being shortchanged by his so-called 'friends' who have been literally living off his popularity and superstardom, Shah Rukh Khan wants to turn his production company, Red Chillies Entertainment, into a full-blown Bollywood film studio, which will have a vision that will surpass the likes of UTV, Dharma Productions or even Yash Raj Films.

News is that King Khan is looking at hiring someone to take over this dream, a head of operations who will not only share his grand vision, but also ensure that it works. Unlike the usual one or two films that his production company churns out every year, SRK wants to up the ante and make more. He might not act in most of them, but he will be an integral part of each nevertheless. The mantra being thrown around in the Red Chillies boardroom is 'minimise outside commitments'. Does it imply that Yash Chopra and Karan Johar will not be Shahrukh's top priorities any longer? Where does SRK wish to lead his company to? Which is that pot of gold at the end of the rainbow? Will it cause more films like RA.One to be made? While the last concern sent a chill down our collective spine, we are hoping that SRK manages to achieve what he wants and keeps us entertained like he always does.

Click here to find out Who will Shahrukh Khan's heroine be in Rohit Shetty's Chennai Express?

Vijay, Jiiva, Srikanth, Sathyaraj, Ileana

There is a big risk remaking classic blockbusters as comparisons are bound to happen.

And when Shankar, the film-maker known for his grandeur, and Vijay, a mass hero, came together for the remake of Bollywood superhit 3 Idiots, speculation ran high. Brushing aside the misgivings, it is Shankar's honest approach to the simple, yet entertaining, script that makes the film tick!

The story starts a decade after the graduation of college companions Venkat Ramakrishnan (Srikanth) and Sevalkodi Senthil (Jiiva) who get a clue on the whereabouts of their missing third friend, Panchavan Paarivendhan (Vijay).

As they set out on a road trip from Chennai to Ooty to Coimbatore to find their buddy with nerd Srivatsan (Sathyan) for company, the narrative moves back and forth into flashback and present mode and thus we get to know the threesome as students of an engineering college.

It all begins with the ragging of Venkat and Senthil when their seniors make them dance in their underwear. Enters Paari (it is a normal intro for Vijay without a flashy song), who, though targeted by the seniors, escapes using his wit.

Paari clearly is different from anyone else in the college with his individualistic thought-process and is a natural genius. While Paari tops all exams, his two friends remain dumb throughout. And that is because one of them is burdened by his family's expectations and a fear of exams. The other is passionate about wildlife photography and not engineering.

Paari is able to convince his two friends to think for themselves, follow their heart with his goodwill mantra– 'All iz well'. Paari wishes to change the educational system and draws the ire of Prof Virumandi Santhanam alias Virus (Sathyaraj) who also happens to be their principal. Virumandi believes in achieving success through speed: 'Life is a race – Run, Run, Run'.

Paari meets Riya (Ileana), daughter of Virumandi, in an amusing fashion which later develops into romance. The rest is about whose belief – Virumandi's or Paari's – is right.

In his trademark style, Shankar grabs your attention from scene one with a quirky opening. Thereafter, every single scene is not just relevant but also has a clear-cut objective – to be funny or emotional. This means it makes you laugh or cry and at some beyond compare instances, do both simultaneously. Shankar has almost faithfully followed the original except for the songs and their picturisation.

Senthil's poverty-stricken family is introduced by Shankar in such a casual manner in spoofy black-and-white frames, which had all the risk of turning into a melodramatic tear-jerker scene, but, instead, turns into a laugh riot.

Vijay looks young and energetic and plays a cool college dude to perfection. It is an all-new Vijay: no typical intro scene, no punch lines, no over-the-top stunts; yet he captivates all with his natural flair for humour and also scores in emotional scenes.

Jiiva and Srikanth, who play the part of Sharman Joshi and Madhavan, are an effective foil and give outstanding performances. Ileana looks skinny and her role is purely to add that glam bit, especially in songs. Sathyaraj shines in his eccentric character role. S.J. Suriya's cameo at a crucial juncture is delightful.

Cinematography by Manoj Paramahamsa is top-notch. Harris Jayaraj music is peppy. Logic goes for a toss at some places and the movie is too long (3 hr 10 mins). Nevertheless, it's a feel-good film with a larger message and a brilliant feat by Vijay which makes the film a not-to-be-missed one!

The couple looked pretty much at peace together, posing for the shutterbugs and greeting everyone with a pleasant smile. Seems like all the controversies and rumours about King Khan having an affair with Priyanka Chopra are working in favour of strengthening B-town's most talked about couple's relationship. Despite the fact that PC and SRK hosted the award function together, wife Gauri didn't have a single trace of worry on her face and looked quite unaffected with all the brouhaha surrounding her husband's alleged infidelity. One of the reasons could be that King Khan did everything possible to keep his wife happy at the award function, which is why the two were spotted in an extremely romantic mood at the after party of the show. Now some say the Don 2 co-stars are nothing more than good buddies, while other industry insiders are cock-sure about something brewing between the two. Also, rumours suggest that Gauri and SRK's common friends have been playing an integral role in warning Mrs Khan, filling her head with all kinds of ideas and asking her to keep an alert eye on her hubby. And maybe Gauri is following all their suggestions quite diligently, which in turn is resulting in a certain awkwardness between the so-called 'best buddies' (SRK and PC) lately. We presume that Gauri is simply playing her cards right, so there can also be a possibility that these stories are all cock-and-bull and everything's actually hunky-dory between Mr and Mrs Khan.

All we can say is that we are just waiting for the next clue to pop up to show whether Shahrukh and Priyanka are actually having a wild affair, since we would prefer to let genuine evidence prevail over wicked assumptions.

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With the much anticipated release of Karan Johar's 'Agneepath' waiting in the wings; it will be interesting to review the look of the hero as against his villainous counterpart. While the hero is all set to come up with his intense image of startling simplicity, the villain is likely to sway one and all with his utterly cunning smile. To add to the contrasted intensity of prized passion, twists of life, deals of enmity and that of vengeance; both the hero as well as his antagonists have striking looks to offer.

To go by the first revelation, the macho hero sizzles with his muscular look. Sporting a trendy vest of red and matching head band, the hero is seen making his presence in course of Janmashthami celebration.

Bearing in mind the essential commonality of the present Dinanath Chauhan, the stylish her had to don a simple look in cool casuals; minus the glamorous touches of exuberance which he is otherwise noted for. The only accessory visibly apparent is the thread in black encircling his neck.

Having to effect an aura of mediocrity, Hrithik is mostly seen clad in casuals such as jeans, vest and non-formal shirts. But, the only exception revolves around the 'Ganpati' number, where he is seen wearing an orange 'kurta' of raw silk make. With forehead donning the mark of vermilion, the hero offers his obeisance at the 'Ganpati' altar.

While, Big B had his eye intensity magnified with 'kohl'; Hrithik is all set to sport a naturally bruised intense look. As the mirror reflection of a battered explorer, Hrithik goes about his task with a passionate zeal.

The villainous deal being offered by Sanjay Dutt is one of scary excitement. With an impishly evil killer smile, 'Kancha Cheena' has a bald look to offer. Chunky earrings in addition to the black garment add to the villainous core.

As the picture perfect epitome of evil, there is little to undo Sanju baba's look in Agneepath. The flaunted biceps with tattoo marks complete the look of a dedicated baddie.

Having had his look supervised under the reputed instructions of Robin Slater, it is heard that the proverbially popular 'Munnabhai' could manage without shaving his head. The touch of brilliance provided by the globally renowned makeup man was enough to bring on the look of baldness.

The smile of cunningness gives a perfect match to the blackness marking the trendy tee. The killer smile with all its negativity happens to be the fulcrum of Kancha Cheena's existence.

IndiaGlitz [Tuesday, January 17, 2012] Reputed publication, The New York Times reviewed Lingusamy's latest offering 'Vettai' as 'Taking on Bad Guys in South India'.
The review by Rachel Saltz was crisp. She wrote, "Plenty of Hindi movies - Bollywood, that is - open in New York, but Tamil films remain a rare commodity in theaters. If "Vettai" brings to mind "Singham," a recent Hindi good-cop-cleans-up-bad-town movie, it's not surprising. "Singham" started life as a Tamil film whose success spurred regional remakes.

She further adds, "The Tamil movie "Vettai" has a lot of story to tell. The director, N. Lingusamy, can't stop even when it's over (about 2 ? hours): he sneaks a happily-ever-after epilogue over the end credits".
This review in a prestigious international publication will only add more value to the film overseas which has seen a good opening worldwide this Pongal. Meanwhile, grapevine is abuzz that the film will be remade in Hindi with Salman Khan and Ranbir Kapoor, however there's no official confirmation on this front.

 

"We have done authentic casting in Jism 2. We have taken Sunny Leone because we want a girl who plays that kind of part and persona," said Pooja."It is very important that you cast authentically. Everyone talks about out-of-the-box casting but no one does it," added the the 39-year-old. Pooja, who has made films like Zakhm, Jism and Paap, asserts that she likes to associate with people who are genuine.

"People talk about Zakhm and then go and watch Jism. The point is that we have decided to attach ourselves with only those who are audacious, be it Sunny Leone or anyone else; people who walk their talk and dare to stick their necks out," she said. The actor-turned-filmmaker, daughter of Mahesh Bhatt, is currently busy with pre-production work of Jism 2, which will go on floors soon. The two male actors for the film are yet to be finalised.

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