The Write Inspiration!

Shah Rukh Khan was supposed to release his autobiography, 20 Years to a Decade, some time this year. However, many things hampered his penning of the book, including work schedules, his shoulder injury, filming of Ra.One and a lack of inspiration, among other reasons.

A family holiday in Turkey, though, appears to be exactly what King Khan needed to revive the creative flow in his system!

Via Twitter, SRK reveals that he has finally gotten back to the task. The narrative style of the book will very much follow his easy and friendly conversational manner. SRK is apparently set to poke fun at himself, while underplaying his theatricality. The book release will now possibly happen towards the middle or the end of 2011.

If there's ever been a recounting of memoirs as eagerly awaited - it has to be for you, King Khan!

Vivek's Swayamvar?

Will Vivek Oberoi be the next celebrity in NDTV Imagine's Swayamvar 3?


That's the question many are wondering following the latest buzz that the actor has been roped in to follow Rakhi Sawant and Rahul Mahajan who were the star attractions of the first two seasons respectively.


It's not hard to imagine why Vivek would be interested. After all, Reality TV and B-Town stars on the small screen are both recent crazes. Adding to that, Vivek's popularity has increased since the success of his last two flicks - Kurbaan and Prince. Or even more so, owing to his revival post the dramatic break up with Aish. In current status, the actor is single and very eligible.


Expectantly one daresay, sources close to Vivek have come forward to denounce the news, citing it as "ridiculous". Not a first at that! Apparently after his long struggle in the industry, the recent success he has gained, indicates something more like Vivek's complete dedication to the cause of his career, which puts personal front (read: love life) into second gear. Definitely not something as vital as tying the knot anyways.


The actor is currently known to be busy with Rakta Charitra, directed by Ram Gopal Varma- Part I of which is to be released in September. Following this Vivek is also in talks for a Mani Ratnam movie.


However Oberoi's decision to not give any personal interviews and refusal to talk about this issue has only fueled the speculations about the possibility of his Swayamvar as such?

The Write Inspiration!

Recent reports say that Bollywood Barbie Katrina Kaif is looking to shed her Barbie-doll image after portraying her serious role in Raajneeti. Now, however, we hear that Kat is awfully pleased with the alluring, sensual side of her that Farah Khan has brought out in Tees Maar Khan. So much so, that she has requested Farah to direct her in an ad for Etihad Airways!

Fickle or what?!

Nonetheless, becoming the face of Etihad will be Katrina's first airline endorsement, out of the many brands in her kitty.

Farah, who has directed for many other stars, confirmed that Kat approached her to direct her in the advert for Etihad Airlines. Katrina will be taking a day off from her filming of Zindagi Na Milegi Dubara, fly down from Spain to Abu Dhabi, to shoot for the ad in their airport lounge. No, Kat will not be playing an air hostess! Farah has already picked out a solo number that Kat will be performing to, and she is excited about the actress hearing out the scheme of things!

While we're far from the right people to give Katrina career advice, we wonder if presenting her glamorous side in an advertisement is the right way to get people to take notice of her acting chops instead of her looks! Or did we read too much into her solemn declarations not too many days ago?!

Saif loses it for Agent Vinod

With news of size zero Kareena Kapoor gaining the pounds, beau Saif Ali Khan has decided to shed some weight instead! Something like 'lets keep a mutual balance right, shall we dahlin'?!"


Jokes apart, the actor has lost nine kilos in an attempt to get fit for his role in Agent Vinod whilst also cropping beloved tresses several inches short. The new look, apparently based on Hollywood star Matt Damon, has had girlfriend Bebo raving! The actress has admitted that Saif looks great and she can't take her eyes off him!


Sadly the rest of us will struggle to catch sight of him at all, as the actor has decided to keep his look top secret until the movie's release. Apparently Saif refuses to leave the house unless strictly necessary as he wants to create an impact when his look is finally revealed. We at Bolly Curry like to call it the Khan secret to success - Aamir, SRK, Salman ... now Saif - can't stop keeping low profiles on their changed avatars every so often, can they?!


Loosely based on the James Bond series, Agent Vinod promises to beslick, thrilling and full of action! Of course there's a non zero sized Bebo, aspiring to be zero sized Saif and their sizzling chemistry to dream about meanwhile!

Asin, Dhoni - Another Celebrity Alliance?!

There had been buzz not long ago about Indian cricket team skipper M. S. Dhoni catching up the IPL game between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Mumbai Indians with Ghajini girl Asin at her lavish abode.


The gossip grapevine has burgeoned with a more recent scoop claiming that Dhoni is in fact known to have paid the lovely Southern actress another visit at her place in suburban Mumbai. Moreover, with the coincidence of Asin being in Sri Lanka shooting for Anees Bazmee's Ready, around the same time that Dhoni was in the country captaining the Indian team for the Asia Cup, there has been even more talk of a romantic link-up between the two.


Apparently, the entire spark was ignited at the shoot of a common commercial, where, from what sources claim, Mahi and Asin really hit it off from the very beginning. Maybe it was love at first sight, eh?!


With quite a few speculations regarding Asin's love life having done numerous rounds post her Bollywood debut Ghajini, this may seem to be just another one of those passing rumors. Whether or not there is substance to the story, time alone shall tell!

My husband thinks I should do films: Sonali Bendre

New Delhi, June 29 (IANS) Actress Sonali Bendre, who has been missing from the big screen for quite a while, says her filmmaker husband Goldie Behl wants her to return to the silver screen and says this is the right time for her to venture into movies.

'Goldie thinks that I should be acting now... he thinks the kind off cinema that is being made today is what I used to do when I was active in Bollywood. Playing loud characters was never my forte... my forte has always been enacting quite and real roles which is happening in the industry now,' Sonali told IANS.

'He keeps telling me, 'You know, I think you are making a mistake. You should be doing movies now, lot of interesting things are happening and you fit right in them'. Even my mother-in-law keeps telling me the same thing,' she added.

But Sonali makes it clear that movies are not on her cards right now.

'Well I agree the roles and the kind of scripts that are being made today are my type, but I have my own opinion. I follow my thinking and don't get swayed so easily. I don't think I'm ready for films because it takes a lot of commitment. I'm not ready for that kind of commitment,' Sonali said.

The 35-year-old, who worked in films like 'Major Saab', 'Sarfarosh', 'Zakhm', 'Hum Saath Saath Hain' and 'Humara Dil Aapke Pass Hai', bid adieu to movies after tying the knot with Behl in 2002.

And any plans to get into production?

'I'm married in a film family and we have our own production house. So it's not that I have to go out and then get into production. I'm already into it. But other than that I think production requires certain amount of mindset and training, which I lack.

'I'm not trained like them. I do have an aesthetic sense of what I like or what I don't like. Definitely I can give my opinion on it, but beyond that the day-to-day running has to be left to the professionals,' she added.

The actress is set to grace the small screen once again as the judge of second season of Colors' reality show 'India's Got Talent'. Director Sajid Khan and actress Kirron Kher will join her in the judges' panel.

I really miss Pancham: Lata (Movie Snippets)

New Delhi, June 27 (IANS) Bollywood nightingale Lata Mangeshkar remembers music maestro R.D. Burman, also known as Pancham, on his 71st birth anniversary Sunday and says he was 'a matchless composer'.

'It's pancham's birth anniversary today... i really miss you (Pancham) and your music pancham... you are matchless... yours didi,' Lata wrote on her Twitter page.

The Lata-Burman combo created some memorable hits like 'Bahon mein chale aao', 'Tere bina jiya jaye na', 'Tune O rangeele' and 'Tujhse naraaz nahin zindagi'.

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June 26 declared as Shreya Ghoshal day in Ohio

American state Ohio has honoured Bollywood playback singer Shreya Ghoshal for her contribution to the music industry by declaring June 26 as 'Shreya Ghoshal Day'.

An ecstatic Shreya wrote on microblogging site Twitter: '26th june is declared Shreya Ghoshal Day in Ohio. The First Lady of the State presented me this honour while I was performing yesterday (Saturday).

'It's an honour which has been given to personalities, artists n (and) literates since many years. I was informed that (Rabindranath) Tagore, Swami Vivekananda were the recipients that time. I was too overwhelmed at this thought. My name went into the same archives. Unimaginable!!' she added.

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When Asha Bhosle was offered to play Indira Gandhi

Veteran singer Asha Bhosle has revealed that she was once offered to play the role of Indira Gandhi, the 'iron lady' of Indian politics, in a musical in Britain.

'Years ago I was asked to play Indira Gandhi in a UK musical play. Condition: I had to live in London. I refused,' she posted on her microblogging site Twitter.

Big B remembers Yash Johar as 'dependable' human being

Mumbai, June 27 (IANS) Boman Irani, who started life as a photographer, just loves exploring different avenues. After some crackling performances, including in comic roles, the hugely talented actor is trying his voice as a singer.

He is touring five Indian cities with music director Shankar Mahadevan but says he does not want to make a career out of it.

'I never look at it as a career. First enjoy it yourself and make sure that others also enjoy it. And you are not sickening them with your work. But I don't say that I want to be a singer because I got to make a career out of it. I don't plan that too much,' Boman told IANS in an exclusive interview.

Wizcraft roped him with music director Shankar Mahadevan for Teachers' Origin Highnights, for which they are travelling to Delhi, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Kolkata and Bangalore.

Asked if he has any plans to perform on stage beyond the present tour, he said: 'Of course we are planning something outside India. Let's see how it goes.

'This opportunity (to sing) came in IIFA (International Indian Film Academy awards), picking up the guitar and singing with 50 little kids. But what I have to say is I just love to explore other things,' said Boman.

The actor confessed that it was not an impromptu effort and he had taken lessons for the show.

'I have been practising singing. There is a wonderful lady called Marion D'Cruz with whom I sat for five sessions to perform at IIFA. That was required to open up my voice because you know sometimes we don't use all the registers of our voice.

'Music director Raju Singh made the track for 'Give me some sunshine...' He is the guy who used to play guitar for R.D. Burman. I went to him, became friends and asked him to help me out to gain confidence on just strumming the guitar. I can't call them classes though; I went to him seven-eight days,' the actor said.

'See, eventually, any form of art, be it music, cinema or acting or painting, it's a release. When you can sing, when music is involved.... and we love music so much, it is very, very important to release it. Don't keep it bottled in. When you get that opportunity, don't let that opportunity go. It doesn't come a second time around.'

Boman says that 'Munna Bhai...' was one such opportunity that he is glad he didn't let it go.

'When 'Munna Bhai...' came I was lucky to have taken it, though I had said no initially. When opportunity comes, never let it go.'

Manisha to play politician in first film post marriage

Mumbai, June 26 (IANS) Bollywood actress Manisha Koirala, who recently tied the knot with a Nepali businessman, has signed her first film after marriage in which she will play the role of a politician.

'I am glad that I was offered this role. I am looking forward to it. After marriage I wanted a different and challenging role to play and this one is just that,' Manisha said in a statement.

The yet-to-be-titled film is being made under the banner of Yograj Cinevista. The rest of the cast and crew are yet to be finalised.

Angelina as Draupadi?

After the success of Raajneeti, Prakash Jha is already toying with a concept for his next movie, which will be marketed overseas, to an international audience.


For a long while now, Prakash has been mulling over a film focusing on the story of Draupadi aka Paanchali, the wife of the five Pandavas in the Hindu mythological epic, Mahabharata. His initial choice for the role was Bollywood actress Madhuri Dixit, but since his extend to a world wide market for this venture, he would like to get an international cast. In particular, he would like to see Angelina Jolie in the role of Draupadi.


Should Angelina accept the role, she will inevitably be competing against Bipasha Basu, who also plays the same mythological female protagonist in Rituparno Ghosh's upcoming film.


Jha sure has his ways to experiment - from having Brit accented tinsel town babe Katrina play a fluent Hindi speaking political character, to a complete outsider essay a pivotal role from the sacred texts of the Hindus - he insists of playing the surprise element card!

Daredevil Kareena's Golmaal

Move over Khiladi Kumar, there's a new daredevil in town! The lovely Bebo surprised her cast and crew when she insisted on doing her own stunts for the opening sequence of Golmaal 3.

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While the female counterparts of B-town are known to step up to the challenge occasionally, they do try to avoid the more riskier stunts. Kareena, however, showed unusual enthusiasm about standing over the bonnet of a moving car.


Despite being harnessed, it was a difficult shot as the actress had to keep her balance whilst maintaining the appropriate facial expressions of her character at the same time. The car (driven by director Rohit Shetty) was also going at a considerable speed and taking turns.


But we hear that the shot post completion looks amazing so maybe bravado act wasn't plain reckless?!


Here's Bollycurry eagerly waiting for Golmaal 3!

Lata Mangeshkar sings for film after four years!

Lata Mangeshkar's divine voice was last heard in Rang De Basanti,Veer Zara and Page 3. After that she took a self imposed break from commercial film songs. Occasionally she agreed for a bhajan. Although every month she is flooded with hundreds of song offers, it took her four years to say yes to a film song.

She is singing the title track of Sunjay Sharma's Dunno Y.. Na Jaane Kyun. Kapil Sharma who is the actor and writer of the film still can't believe his dream of Lata ji singing for his coming true. When Nikhil the music director of the film presented Kapil the composition of the track Kapil's instant reaction was a wish that Lata ji would sing this song. He told Nikhil he needs to make some really good film so that one day he is good enough to approach Lata ji for a song. Nikhil told him they can still try one never know she may agree to sing if she likes the song and the story.

And as it was destined ,when Lataji heard the composition she liked it so much that she agreed immediately.

"My co actor Yuvraaj Parashar who is also diehard fan of hers and believes she is the incarnation of Mata Saraswati requested me if he could attend the recording. When i touched her feet she gave me blessings excitedly," says Yuvraaj.

"It makes me believe if we believe in our dreams and thoroughly pursue them one day they do come true," says Kapil.

Tejaswini Kolhapure gets the rawest deal ever in 'Raavan'

Mumbai, June 24 (IANS) If Govinda thinks that he got a raw deal in Mani Ratnam's 'Raavan', then he can seek solace in the savage butchering that Tejaswini Kolhapure's role suffered.

Padmini Kolhapure's pretty baby sister was signed on for a prominent role as Ravi Kissan's wife in the movie. She spent two-and-half gruelling months away from home and husband (filmmaker-actor Pankaj Saraswat) in the jungles shooting for 'Raavan'.

The end-result - one passing shot, lasting no more than five seconds in a wedding song. Surely this must rank as the most abbreviated role in the history of Hindi cinema!

One of Tejaswini's co-stars in 'Raavan' says: 'At least Tejaswini is visible in one shot. Poor Sadashiv Amrapurkar, at his age, he was on location in the jungles for 90 days. He doesn't even have one scene in the film. And what about poor Sachin Khedekar, who is there for just one scene as Abhishek's father? He also played Aishwarya's father in Guru and had his role chopped off because Mani wanted to focus on the Abhishek-Aishwarya story.'

Incidentally, Madhavan and Vidya Balan also had their roles severely chopped off in Guru.

Surprisingly, Tejaswini doesn't try to dodge the savage editing of her part with sugar-coated words.

When asked about her blink-and-miss appearance in the movie, she said: 'Mani sir and the entire crew knew what my role was. I shot for a good 75 days. The role in the film is what you saw. Nevertheless, it was a treat working with a director like Mani Ratnam. Anyone would give their right hand to work with him. All I had to suffer were some minor bruises. It's crazy to say this after what I've gone through. But I'd love to work with him again.'

Tejaswini has been unlucky in her career from the very beginning. Her first film, as leading lady in Anurag Kashyap's 'Paanch' was never released.

But she's hopeful about the future. 'I've finished Happi with Pankaj Kapoor-ji which is directed by Bhavna Talwar. I've also done a short film called 'Salt & Pepper' about farmers' suicides directed by Mohinder Pratap Singh and Shashank Ghosh's segment in 'Mumbai Cutting' (a film with short stories on Mumbai). Ironically in Shashank's film I play an actress trying to find a foothold in the film industry,' she adds.

Lara's New BFF!

Mallika Sherawat is no stranger to the Hollywood circle, and we are no strangers to her exploits in Hollywood. A recent dinner hosted by TV presenter, model, journalist and restaurateur Alexus Chung in London, though, did not see Mallika as the only Indian present. Instead, Lara Dutta was fortunate enough to be invited, and she also found herself a new best friend in Hollywood, none other than beauty Gwyneth Paltrow!


Gwyneth's fascination with India and Indian culture prompted her conversation with Lara, and the two enjoyed themselves thoroughly, talking about everything from movies to the country and even about the culture.


Their friendship will not end at the event, though! Lara and Gwyneth have made plans to stay in touch, and to meet up with each other whenever they can!

Konkona, the Model Neighbour

Actress Konkona Sen is making herself quite popular among her neighbours, and it's not just because of her wonderful acting skills!


She is currently living in a luxurious suburban society in Mumbai with boyfriend Ranvir Shorey, and her friendly personality is winning over her neighbours. Buzz has it that Koko is extremely polite to everyone, smiling and chatting with even the watchmen!


Koko has apparently also been making sure that Ranvir does the same, making him more liked as well.


Here's wishing a happy future to the couple and their neighbours!

Rain on Kat's parade

Katrina Kaif owes a lot to the recent political flick Rajneeti. The movie has helped her shed her one-dimensional Barbie doll image and pushed her in a new light, with audience and filmmakers beginning to appreciate her as a versatile actress.


It therefore stands to reason that Kat would be the one partying the most at the Mumbai success bash held by Prakash Jha. Unfortunately, she's likely to be the only actor of the ensemble cast not to make an appearance!


Kat has been busy with Zoya Akhtar's film, Zindagi Milegi Na Dobara, in Spain. All plans were made for her to take a break and fly to Mumbai so that she could be a part of the celebrations before making a quick trip back. However, unexpected downpours on the sets earlier cancelled many shoots, meaning that the Zindagi team are working overtime to get all the required footage.


Subsequently, the actress's request for a two-day break was denied. Katrina also offered to make it back in 24 hours - hoping to fly out on the day of the party and practically return to Spain the same day. However director Zoya already has her hands full and refuses to lose any more time.


Katrina is surely disheartened with the news but has asked Prakash Jha to hold another party when she returns.

Zarine - Salman's new flame ?

Here's another little rumour readers can add to the already teetering pile reserved solely for Katrina Kaif and Salman Khan. Apparently actress Zarine Khan, who made her debut with Veer, the one who turned far too many heads especially for her similar appearance with 'the kat' herself, is Salman's new love!

The pair brought much attention upon themselves when they entered Aamir's party, held for Argentinian composer Gustavo Santaolalla, together on Saturday night. Some onlookers have commented that there was much hand-holding whilst others have sworn that Zarine stayed by Salman's side the whole night and that the duo looked very close.

Zarine stated in a recent interview that she owes her successful (albeit short) career to Salman and that he is her mentor. There has also been much buzz about Salman promoting Zarine to several filmmakers. A relationship, one may notice, not unlike the one Kat and Salman shared in their early stages, we say!

Maybe this will prompt Kat to put the infamous silence on her relationship aside and just tell us fans the truth? After all, it's very hard to keep track of whether they are dating ... or if they are in fact not.

Salman: Being 'Good' Human!

Salman Khan's charitable streak, the maiden proof of which is Being Human Foundation since 2007, persists on, with the recipients this time being St. Catherine's Home.

A children's shelter in Bandra, St. Catherine's Home have had regular visits from Salman, and on one such visit, he found that the children could not afford computers, even though they were keen on learning how to use them. He immediately sent the staff enough money to purchase 25 computers, and even helped hand pick the best stuff.

With the Being Human Foundation, Salman has contributed to quite a few different causes, utilizing the advantages of his celebrity status to aid in fund raisers. Now St. Catherine appears to be the second significant beneficiary in the making.

We applaud Salman's charity work, and do hope that more stars will follow in his footsteps to make the world a better place!

Rajesh Khanna most romantic Bollywood hero: Imran Khan (Film Snippets)

New Delhi, June 23 (IANS) Bollywood actor Imran Khan feels that yesteryears actor Rajesh Khanna is the most romantic hero of Indian cinema.

'During my growing up years in 1990s, the main romantic heroes were Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan. However, someone who would take the top slot as the most romantic hero of all time is Rajesh Khanna,' Imran said.

Three film old Imran had revealed he had an eternal crush on Juhi Chawla and that he would love to work in a film like 'Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak', which was his uncle Aamir Khan's debut vehicle.

'While growing up, I had a huge crush on Juhi Chawla. I loved her in 'Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak'. I actually proposed to her as a child,' he said.

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Rohit Shetty holds 'The A-Team' screening for 'Golmaal 3' cast

Filmmaker Rohit Shetty held a special screening of Hollywood action comedy 'The A-Team', starring Bradley Cooper and Jessica Beil, for the entire cast of his upcoming film 'Golmaal 3'.

The cast of the film, including Ajay Devgn, Arshad Warsi, Tusshar Kapoor, Shreyas Talpade and Kunal Khemu, along with Rohit, came together Tuesday for the screening at the Rainbow Theatre within the premises of Ramoji Studios in Hyderabad.

'Rohit announced at the end of the shoot that he had organised a special screening of a Hollywood flick. Everyone was pretty excited. Action is one of Rohit's favourite genres and he loved the stunts,' said a source.

Kunal also added: 'I love action films and 'The A-Team' was a pretty interesting watch. It was great fun.'

The cast has finished shooting for the last leg of 'Golmaal 3' in Hyderabad.

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Vikram wants to concentrate on Tamil films

Despite making his debut in Bollywood films with Mani Ratnam's 'Raavan', actor Vikram says he wants to concentrate on Tamil films.

'I want to concentrate on Tamil films. I am not really taken up by the fact that I have to do a film in Bollywood because then I'll have to compromise on my career in Tamil cinema. For that matter, if a good script comes my way, I'll do it irrespective of the language whether it is Bengali or even Bhojpuri,' said Vikram.

The Tamil superstar insists his Hindi has become more fluent, thanks to the movie.

'This is one film where my Hindi has improved the maximum because I had an associate who would not speak to me in any other language other than Hindi. For one-and-a-half years, I have been speaking to him in broken, half-baked Hindi,' he said.

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Hansika Motwani finds fan in Prabhu Deva

Actress Hansika Motwani has found a fan in actor-director Prabhu Deva, after she shot non-stop for 15 hours for his new film.

It was raining heavily in Paris for a few days and finally, when the skies cleared the shoot resumed, Hansika worked non-stop for 15 hours so that they could get back to their schedule.

'Hansika is so beautiful and talented and that too at such a young age, and her commitment towards work is extraordinary. She is a star in the making!!' said Prabhu Deva.

Hansika was beaming with joy after a hard day's work and said: 'To work with a legend that is Prabhu Deva sir, is something of a dream come true and I just want to give my best every time.'

Deepika bags John!

Whatever you may think of her, dimpled lass Deepika Padukone has been extremely lucky when it comes to her pick of co-stars. After giving hits with Shah Rukh Khan, Saif Ali Khan and Ranbir Kapoor, the actress will now be seen with John Abraham!

Apparently John, following the latest trend of remaking Tamil movies, has been interested in a Bollywood version of Tamil hit, Milaga, after recently watching the movie. Currently producer Kalaipuli S Thanu holds the rights to remake the movie in two languages - Hindi and Telugu.

The Telugu version will likely star either Allu Arjun or Prabhas. Meanwhile the Bollywood remake, titled Mirchi, will see Deepika opposite John for the first time.

To be shot in Goa, the movie is said to be a realistic take on the life of a group of youngsters. However the movie promises to be racy and attractive to an audience of all ages.

Varma takes a dig at Karan Johar

Filmmakers Ram Gopal Varma and Karan Johar are engaged in a war of words over 'Raavan' on the micro-blogging site Twitter.

The two are engaged in a verbal fight ever since Varma provoked Johar by expressing his desire to remake 'Raavan' as 'My Name Is Raavan'.

'I want to remake 'Raavan' and I want to request Mani to remake '(Ram Gopal Varma Ki) Aag',' Varma posted as a reaction to Mani Ratnam's recently released 'Raavan' on his Twitter page. It was followed by another post: 'I (have) got a better idea... I will make 'My name is Raavan' and Mani should make 'Raavan Ki Kurbaan'.'

The comment was an indirect dig at Johar's movies 'My Name is Khan' and 'Kurbaan'.

Varma did not even spare superstar Shah Rukh Khan and commented on his upcoming sci-fi project 'Ra.One'.

'Let's all hope and pray that 'Ra.One' does not become 'SRK ki Baarish'. Let's all hope and pray that 'Ra.One' does not become 'SRK ki Aag',' he added.

Johar, who was infuriated by Varma's comments, replied: 'You have an amazing sense of humour Ramu (Varma)! Never shows up in your films though.'

On that Varma said: 'Karan, because of the constant bashing I receive, I developed my sense of humour as a defence mechanism. And talking of my films not having humour, check out the great comedy I made called 'RGV Ki Aag'.'

Month-long festival of Indian movies in China

New Delhi, June 21 (IANS) India will showcase in China a month-long event and an exhibition documenting the journey of its cinema to mark 60 years of diplomatic ties between the two countries.

The festival will be inaugurated at the Broadway Cinematheque Moma in Beijing June 24 after which it will travel to Chongqing July 6-12 and Guangzhou from July 16-22.

The festival will be complemented by an exhibition that will trace the history of Indian cinema from the silent era of the 1913 to contemporary Bollywood that has become a billion dollar industry globally and an Asian entertainment giant.

A delegation of 20 representatives from the industry including Yash Chopra, Bobby Bedi, Rahul Bose, Aparna Sen and Manmohan Shetty will attend the inauguration.

The festival, a part of the Year of India in China bouquet, will be hosted by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) and a non-profit cultural promotion umbrella, 'Routes to Roots'.

The 10 movies as well as the exhibition have been divided into three categories - the silent era, contemporary era and the golden era.

'Posters, collages and audio visual footage will script the journey of Indian cinema from the first silent feature film, Raja Harishchandra by Dadasaheb Phalke in 1913 followed by the talkie cinema 'Alam Ara' in 1931. The festival will begin with the screening of Bollywood hit 'Oye Lucky Lucky Oye' and followed by regional films chosen by the Directorate of Film Festival,' Rakesh Gupta, director of 'Routes to Roots', said.

Gupta said a book on Indian Cinema in Chinese will be released to 'spread awareness about the rich legacy of Indian cinema to the people of China who are familiar with Bollywood'.

Sonu Niigaam, Rahat Fateh Ali to judge 'Chhote Ustad'

New Delhi, June 21 (IANS) Popular singers Sonu Niigaam and Ali Khan" target="_blank">Rahat Fateh Ali Khan will judge the second season of Star Plus' children music reality show 'Voice of India Chhote Ustad'.

'I will judge 'Chhote Ustad' on Star Plus. Rahat is my co-judge. So we will have some fun with stars of tomorrow,' Niigaam posted on his micro-blogging site Twitter.

A source from the channel confirmed the news.

In the past, Niigaam has judged shows like 'Indian Idol' and 'Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Li'l Champs International', while Rahat, nephew of late acclaimed Sufi singer Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, was seen as a mentor on Imagine TV's 'Junoon Kuch Kar Dikhaane Ka'.

The launch date of the show is yet to be confirmed.

The last season of 'Chhote Ustad' was aired in 2007. It was judged by Pritam Chakraborty, Shreya Ghoshal and Kunal Ganjawala and Ahmedabad's Aishwarya Majumdar won the show

Punjabi singer apologizes for controversial song

Chandigarh, June 21 (IANS) Punjabi singer and actor Babbu Mann Monday tendered an apology for singing a song at a concert questioning the circumstances in which freedom fighter Lala Lajpat Rai died.

Mann in June performed at a concert in Britain where he sang the song which had lines saying that the freedom fighter did not die of wounds inflicted from a cane-charge on him by the British forces in Lahore city (now in Pakistan) in 1928, but due to a heart attack many months later.

'It was not my intention to hurt anyone's feelings. I just sang the lines that were given to me,' Mann said in Mohali.

Rai, popularly known as 'Punjab Kesari' and 'Sher-e-Punjab' (the lion of Punjab), died November 1928, months after receiving injuries from the cane-charge when he and others protested the visit of the Simon Commission sent by the British government to discuss constitutional reforms for India without having any Indian member in it.

Ali Zafar hopes to change image with 'Tere Bin Laden'

Mumbai, June 21 (IANS) Pakistani singer Ali Zafar doesn't have pleasant memories of his maiden visit to the US and always wanted to change his image there. He says his first Bollywood film 'Tere Bin Laden' provides him the opportunity to do so.

'When I started singing, my album 'Channo' became a big international hit. When I went to America with my music, I got negative vibes at the airport. When they saw my Pakistani passport, their attitude was negative. The feeling was that you are not welcome there,' Ali told IANS in an exclusive interview.

'I thought the discrimination was unfair. That day I decided I have to do something that will change their attitude towards me, and this film gave me that opportunity,' added the 29-year-old, also known as Pakistani Prince of Pop.

Set for a worldwide release July 16, 'Tere Bin Laden' is a comedy and it is director Abhishek Sharma's debut movie.

Ali says he was in Mumbai shooting for the film when terrorist attacks rocked the city on 26/11.

'Luckily, we had almost finished shooting. It was very sad to see something like that here. But we (people in Pakistan) are used to such incidents because over there (in Pakistan) blasts are happening every week and people are dying. I really felt bad for the victims and their families. When the relationship between the two countries was getting better, some people did it to jeopardize the whole thing,' he said.

Asked was he apprehensive before accepting the role, he said: 'Of course, I was apprehensive. I read the script to make sure the content has nothing that would offend anyone. There was nothing like that. It's a fun comedy film.'

'The media spread distorted facts about (Osama bin Laden) and the film's story is about that. Who knows where has he been? In the film, it shows that one makes a fake tape on Laden and sells it to the world and the world buys it. So there is nothing to worry about,' he added.

Post 26/11 his visa was not cancelled, but this time he has been permitted to tour only three cities.

'There wasn't any issue with my visa after 26/11. I have a multiple entry visa. Further, the Indian consulate was very kind and wished me best of luck. The only thing happened was it took some time, but that's normal.

'I have a work visa. But this time they asked me to choose three cities. So now it's a three-city visa. And I haven't tried going anywhere else except the city I was permitted to visit,' Said Ali

The Pakistan censor board has yet to approve the film's release in Pakistan.

'Media in Pakistan has written well about the film. But the film still has to go through the Pakistan censor board. If they will approve it, then only it will be screened there. There films go for censor board approval just a week before release because the prints reach there at that time,' he said.

Mausam Update - Fans, Paparazzi et al!

Shahid Kapoor is currently busy with the shooting of Daddy Pankaj's directorial Mausam, in Edinburgh, Scotland. Among the various reasons for which this movie has been in recent news, the the pairing of Shahid with gorgeous lass Sonam Kapoor has to be prime.

This time however, the lady has nothing to do with all the buzz! As many people know, Sasha is one of the most followed celebrities on Twitter. A seemingly harmless tweet from Twitter's famous young celebrity mentioning an Indian restaurant close to the hotel he is staying in, led to speculations about the location, and die hard fans made no mistake in nailing just the place!

Indians living in Scotland are heard to have been crowding the hotel, creating quite a bit of chaos. For Shahid, it is becoming increasingly difficult to stay focused on the shooting schedules, with all the rounding up of fans he is being targeted with! Eager to get a mere glimpse of their favorite actor, fans have been literally omnipresent in the area.

Both father and son have publicly requested to be allowed their space, and especially o not be captured in unsolicited pictures. Cause one such random tell tale shot was splashed over the internet, giving away Shahid's Air Force personnel appearance, complete in uniform and medals, and even a moustache!

With then nuisance of dealing with this unexpected interference, we sure hope the Mausam in Edinburg will not turn sour for father, son, and the entire team.

Dads are usually seen as rule-breakers, risk-takers: Shah Rukh

Mumbai, June 20 (IANS) He plays a perfect lover on-screen and off screen he is the best dad. Describing a father's role, Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan says dads are usually seen as rule-breakers and risk-takers with their kids.

'Someone rightly said, 'Any man can be a father, but it takes time to be a dad'. And that someone was just right,' said Shah Rukh who has two children - son Aryan and daughter Suhana.

'Who is dad? He's the mess-maker, rule-breaker, risk-taker and the opposite of mom who is usually seen as the creator and nurturer. But for all his mischief, dads are doing something quite right,' the actor said in a statement on the occasion of Father's Day.

Known as Bollywood's favourite romantic hero, Shah Rukh donned the role of a modern, loving dad in movies like 'Kuch Kuch Hota Hai' and 'Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham'.

'Father's Day is our day, to celebrate 'being dad'. This day gives us the opportunity to show and express our love and care. It's an appropriate platform to look at our children and credit them for bringing joy and happiness. After all, a child gives birth to a father as well. But even though it's celebrated once a year, it's the ever after effect of being a father that will keep us connected.

'A father's role means different to different people so I cannot do justice by trying to define it. But in the traditional way, we hold the role of being the head of the family, protector and role models to our children. We are definitely the more unpredictable lot with our kids.

'At times we may have rocked our kids more than their moms have and rolled on the floor foolishly to play. So moms and dads are indeed different. And we know we cannot be like the mothers, but we do know that we can make all the difference by being right there.

'I understand it's not easy, but I appreciate the effort that's being put in by all fathers, as more and more fathers are becoming aware and taking their role and responsibility seriously and turning into great dads.'

Apart from movies, in the recent Pepsodent's ad 'Pappu and Pappa', Shah Rukh is seen playing a doting father to child artist Keval.

'I am happy to know that most of you have joined me in 'Pappu and Pappa' campaign and have made a move towards being the family man and taken to spending quality time with your kids.

'For this moment, I dedicate a song for our special day... Will Smith's 'Just the Two of Us' which celebrates fatherhood. And... dear dads you can do more... Wish you a Happy Fathers Day.'

Vintage Femme Classics!

V I N T A G E F E M M E C L A S S I C S

Whilst the likes of Ash, Bebo, Kat and Priyanka rule the hearts of audiences with their current cinematic offerings; it's the actresses of yesteryears that are remembered for their unrivalled beauty and elegance. Here's Bollycurry celebrating the immortal actresses that truly gave the Golden screen it's rightful name...!!

M A D H U B A L A

" Pyar kiya to darna kya, jab pyar kiya to darna kya,

Pyar kiya koi chori nahin ki, pyar kiya,
Pyar kiya koi chori nahin ki, chhup chhup aahein bharna kya,
Jab pyar kiya to darna kya..."

Whilst the name, Mumtaz Begum Jehan Dehlavi, may be a far cry from the iconic Madhubala, this talented actress was known to hold audiences spellbound during her reign in Bollywood in the late 1950s and early 1960s.

1942's Basant saw her debut in to Bollywood as a child artist before she was offered her first lead role opposite Raj Kapoor in Neel Kamal, at the age of only 14! The actress soon blossomed in to a captivating beauty and has since been popularly known for hits such as Barsaat Ki Raat, Half-Ticket and Mughal-e-Azam; the latter of which has helped crown her as the Anarkali of B-Town.

N U T A N

"Sawan ka mahina, pawan kare sor,

Jiyara re jhoome aise, jaise banmaa naache mor..."

Wether we refer to the fourteen-year-old in Hamari Beti or the elderly mother in Bolckbuster films such as Meri Jung and Naam & Karma, actress Nutan has proven herself to be one of the most versatile performers in Bollywood.

Following the title of Miss India in 1952, Nutan recieved her first big break in Seema (for which she won a Filmfare Award) before embarking on a number of successful hits in the 50s and 60s. Nutan has widely been praised for being an accomplished dramatic actress and holds the record for winning the most Filmfare Best Actress Awards. Her biggest hits include Bandini, Tere Ghar ke Saamne, Milan, Gauri & Saraswatichandra.

M E E N A K U M A R I

" Ajeeb daastaan hai yeh, kahan shuru kahan khatam,
Yeh manzile hai kaun si, naa woh samajh sake na hum..."

Mahjabeen Bano, more popularly known as Meena Kumari, is a talented poetess as well as an exceptional actress. Dubbed "The Tragedy Queen" for her often dramatic and sorrowful roles, Kumari has approximately 90 movies to her name and four Filmfare Best Actress awards for movies such as Sahib, Biwi Aur Ghulam (in which she plays and alcoholic wife, a role that has since been regarded as one of the best Hindi Cinema has seen!), Aarti and Main Chup Rahoongi (all recieved in 1962!).

The actress also recieved nominations for Dil Ek Mandir , Kaajal & Phool Aur Patthar whilst her fourth Filmfare win came for the movie Kaajal.

W A H E E D A R E H M A N

" Koi na roko dil ki udaan ko, dil wo chalaa, aa... aa...

Aaj fir jeene ki tamanna hai, aaj fir marne ka iraada hai..."

Appearing in classics such as C. I. D. Pyaasa, Kaagaz ke Phool, Chaudvin ka Chand, Bees Saal Baad & Sahib Biwi Aur Ghulam (1962), Waheeda Rehman is known as one the most prominent actresses of the golden era. She recieved two Filmfare best actress awards for Guide and Neel Kamal whilst Reshma Aur Shera also won her a National Film Award.

After the release of Lamhe, the actress retired from the industry for 12 years before making a comeback with critically acclaimed movies Om Jai Jagdish, Water, Rang De Basanti, Maine Gandhi ko Nahi Maara & Delhi6. However to date her best known film remains Khamoshi, also starring Rajesh Khanna.

V Y J A Y A N T H I M A L A

"Hothon mein aisi baat main dabaake chali aayi,

Khul jaye wohi baat to duhaayi hai duhaayi.."

Vyjayanthimala Bali is best know for her outstanding classical dancing skills that have been much appreciated throughout her career in the 1950s and 1960s. Whilst her acting career started in the Tamil film industry, she found success with Hindi movies such as her debut Ladki, Nagin and Man Dole, Mera tan dole. Following her break out of B grade movie, Vyjayanthimala starred in Devdas, garnering much critical acclaim.

What followed was a string of successful movies such as Madhumati, Ganga Jamuna, Leader & Naya Daur. The first two earned her Filmfare best Actress Awards as did Sangam (opposite Raj Kapoor) whilst the role of a courtesan in Sadhna earned her a Filmfare nomination. Whilst the 1966 epic Amrapali was not a commercial success, she recieved much fame with movies such as Jewel Thief, Suraj, Prince & New Delhi.

M A L A S I N H A

"Apki Nazron ne samjha pyaar ke kabil mujhe,
Dil ki ae dhadkan thehar jaa, mil gayi manzil mujhe..."

Mala Sinha was an actress whose own star power rivalled that of the heroes, a rarity at that time. Known for glamorous yet women orientated roles, Sinha debuted Bollywood with Badshah but it was her performance in Pyaasa that proved to be thr turning point of her career. The movie has since been noted as a classic in Indian cinema.

There was no looking back for the actress after that as she enjoyed success in many hits such as Dhool ka Phool , Movies like 'Parvarish', 'Phir Subah Hogi', 'Main Nahse Main Hoon', 'Love Marriage', 'Bahurani', 'Anpadh', 'Aasra', 'Dil Tera Deewana', Gumrah, Aankhen', Hariyali Aur Rasta', and 'Himalaya Ki God Mein'

The actress was last seen in 1994's Zid.

S A D H A N A

" Jhumka gira re Bareli ke bazaar mein,
jhumka gira, jhumka gira, jhumka gira..."

Sadhana, a trendsetter in her time, bagged her first major role with 1959's Love in Simla. With the movie proving to be a success, Sadhna was catapulted into stardom and started craze with her hairstyle which is still referred to as the "Sadhana Cut" in India.

Mere Mehboob fuelled her rise to stardom and yet it was Woh Kaun Thi that landed Sadhana her first Filmfare whilst the blockbuster Waqt (where she went on to set another fashion trend with tight churidar kurtas) would earn her her second Filmfare nomination. The actress continued to deliver hits such as Inteqaam, Ek Phool Do Mali and Geeta Mera Naam before choosing to retire.

A S H A P A R E K H

"Tumpe hazaron ki aankhen, chahiye tumko sahara,

Palkon mein aaun chupalun, naazuk tan yeh tumhara..
ooo oo aaja aah aah aaja..."

Asha Parekh started of life in Bollywood as a child artist in 1952's Aasmaan. Whilst the failure of 1954's Baap Beti disheartened her, Parekh proved that she was star material when she was cast in Dil Deke Dekho at the age of 16. Known primarily for her roles as either a tomboy or a glamour girl, as well as being an excellent dancer, Parekh enjoyed many success's in Bollywood such as Jab Pyar kisi se Hota Hai (1961),Phir Wohi Dil Laya Hoon (1963), Teesri Manzil (1966), Baharon ke Sapne (1967), Pyar ka Mausam (1969), and Caravan (1971).

She also excelled in dramatic roles and earned a Filmfare for her role in Kati Patang and has gone down in History as the actress to have given the maximum No of hits in Bollywood. She later retired from acting to pursue a career in directing and producing television serials.

N A N D A

"Basne lage aankhon mein kuchh aise sapne,
koi bulaaye jaise naino se apne,
ye sama, sama hai ye pyaar ka, kisi ke intezaar ka,
dil na churale kahin mera, mausam bahaar ka..."

Whilst her first big break was Toofan Aur Diya (1956), followed by the hit Bhabhi (in which she recieved a Filmfare nomination), Nanda found herself playing small supporting roles for a number of movies before she bagged the title role of Chhoti Bahen in 1959. The success of the movie introduced her to stardom and she continued her career with hits such as Hum Dono (1961), Kanoon and Anchal, for which she won a Filmfare.

Movies such as Jab Jab Phool Khile (in which she played a western role) and Gumnaam proved to be the landmarks of her career. The actress went on to recieve another Filmfare nomination for suspense thriller Ittefaq, after which she was seen in mother roles for Ahista Ahista, Mazdoor and Prem Rog before retiring from acting.

M U M T A Z

"Aaj kal tere mere pyar ke charche har Zubaan par,

sabko maaloom hai aur sabko khabar ho gayi..."

Mumtaz, often cited as one of the most beautiful actresses of her time, started of in Bollywood as an extra in films before going on to do 16 action films in the 1960s, earning her label of a stunt film heroine. Her roles in Tere Mere Sapne and Khilona havebecome the landmarks of her career and whilst Khilona earned her a Filmfare, it also went on to the Filmfare Best movie Award.

Popular movie Ram aur Shyam earned her another Filmfare nomination whilst her dance performance in Brahmachari recieved much acclaim. The actress has over a hundred films to her names in a career spanning just 12 years! Whilst she quit acting after a minor role in Aaina, Mumtaaz returned for one final film, 12 years later, in Aasndhiyan.

S A I R A B A N O

"Main chali main chali, dekho pyaar ki gali,
koi roke na mujhe, main chali main chali..."

Saira Banu (also known as Saira Bano) provided Bollywood with many hits throughout the 60s to 80s. She won her first Filmfare nomination for her debut Junglee (at the eage of 17), although she failed to establish herself as an actress after movies such as Gopi, Sagina, Bairaaq (all starring Dilip Kumar) and Chaitaali. She did however recieve a further three filmfare nominations for her roles in Shagird, Diwana and Sagina before choosing to quit acting in 1976.

However the actress chose to make two more appearances with a cameo in Duniya ( 1984) and Faisla (1988).

S H AR M I L A T A G O R E

" Ishaaro ishaaro mein dil lene waale,
bataa ye hunar tune sikhaa kahaa se,
nigaaho nigaaho mein jaadoo chalaanaa,
meree jaan sikhaa hain tum ne jahaa se..."

Begum Ayesha Sultana, more popularly known as Sharmila Tagore, is an actress who has many National Film and Filmfare awards to her name. Whilst her performance in Kashmir Ki Kali (1964) gained her much popularity with the masses; the sight of Tagore in a two-piece bikini (unheard of in Bollywood until this point) for her role in An Evening in Paris (1967) labelled her as a sex symbol in Bollywood.

Her successful career continues with hits such as Aradhana (1969), Amar Prem (1972), Daag (1973) and Maalika (1972). She was most recently spotted with Saif Ali Khan in Eklavya: The Royal Guard.

So, Who's is your favourite....??

Music n' Masti - Bollywood's Top 10

Welcome to another take of Music 'N' Masti as we wave goodbye to the old tracks and showcase the hottest new songs in B-Town this week!

10. Khuda Mere Khuda

Film: Krantiveer - The Revolution
Singers: K K, Shreya Ghoshal

Music: Sachin-Jigar
A new entry this week in the form of Khuda Mere Khuda. While the rest of the album, sadly, has not clicked with the audience; this light performance from the wonderful romantic duo goes on to become a pleasant listen.

9. Chaska

Film: Badmaash Company
Singers: Krishna

Music: Pritam
Chaska definitely tops this album! Krishna does a good job with the vocals though Pritam's melodies falls short of his Dan Te Nan composition for 2009's Kaminey.

8. Aapka Kya Hoga - Dhanno

Film: Housefull
Singer: Mika Singh, Sunidhi Chauhan, Shankar Mahadevan, Sajid Khan, Arun Ingle

Music: Shankar, Ehsaan & Loy
Despite being on it's last leg, Mika's bindaas number remains a favorite with the audience, perhaps a success it owes partially to the parent track from the yesteryear blockbuster Laawaris?!

7. Behene De

Film: Raavan
Singers: Vijay Prakash, Mustafa Kutoane, Keerthi Sagathia

Music: A R Rahman
This one clearly carries the A R Rahman stamp! Whilst situational (and no doubt impressive on screen) Behene De is a delightful combination of the maestro's music and some excellent voices.

6. Bheegi Si Bhaagi Si

Film: Raajneeti

Singers: Mohit Chauhan, Antara Mitra
Music: Pritam
As melodious as it is foot-tapping, and beautifully crooned by Chauhan. Unexpectedly romantic in an album which belongs to a world of dirty politics et al ..

5. Kajra Kajra Kajraare

Film: Kajraare

Singers: Himesh Reshammiya, Sunidhi Chauhan

Music: Himesh Reshammiya

Although we're more than likely to hear a resounding chorus of "why?", following the reader reaction from last week, this track in true Himesh style has an infectious rhythm that has caught the fancy of many. Taking a few knocks back, the track persists in the charts nonetheless!

4. Bin Tere

Film: I Hate Luv Storys
Singers: Shafqat Amanat Ali, Sunidhi Chauhan

Music: Vishal-Shekhar
Despite coming from completely different composers, Bin Tere vaguely reminds us of the monster hit, Noor-E-Khuda. Maybe that's why we love it so much?

3. Mora Piya

Film: Raajneeti

Singers: Aadesh Shrivastav

Music: Aadesh Shrivastav

Albeit it's success, Raajneeti's semi-classical Mora Piya is given another push back this week. Avid listeners may also be interested in the 'Twilight Mix' and the 'Trance Mix'.

2. Jab Mila Tu

Film: I Hate Luv Storys
Singers: Vishal Dadlani

Music: Vishal-Shekhar
A track that is light on the ears and well-sung by Dadlani. It has quickly become popular with music fans despite it's relative lack of lyrical depth as such.

1. Ranjha Ranjha

Film: Raavan
Singers: Rekha Bhardwaj, Javed Ali, Anuradha Sriram

Music: A.R. Rehman
We aim to please! Khilli Re is swapped for the popular Ranjha Ranjha of the same album. A folksy based song reminiscent of the magnificence that was Taal, Ranjha is an energetic and exciting listen.

Anything we're missing?
Let us know your favourite songs this week and you may just find it in the next week's charts!

Akki for the next Ghajini!

A.R. Murugadoss, the director who had made waves with the Aamir Khan starrer Ghajini, is all set to launch his second script in Bollywood and this time, it's Akshay Kumar who's along for the ride.

Despite the fact that the script is being kept strictly under wraps, the Tamil director has publicized that his yet untitled venture will fundamentally be a love story with a strong action base, parallel to Ghajini. However, unlike his debut venture, this will not be a remake of his Kollywood work and is instead a fresh new script.

Meanwhile, Vipul Shah, who is currently busy with the Tamil remake Kaakha Kaakha with John Abraham, is rumoured to be the producer and if all the buzz is taken into consideration, then Shah is pulling out all the stops to make this another hit for Murugadoss. The budget is said to be of Rs 20-25 crores for the action sequences alone!

With so much perseverance towards the action side, is it any surprise that Khiladi Kumar was selected for the role?

Nevertheless, Murugadoss has already been established as an attentive listener, and following the reactions to the brutal end of Asin's character in Ghajini, the director has decided to make the focal point of the action funny rather than gory.

The sources also claim that shooting for this particular movie is likely to commence in January 2011 but when it comes to the female lead, things are yet to be finalized. But we hear that Murugadoss would be more than happy to work with Ghajini-gal Asin once again.

As some of you might have heard that Asin, had earlier turned down the lead role in De Dana Dan and if things fall into places this time, well let's say we'll witness a new fan following, as we, at BollyCurry are more than sure that these two will create magic on screen!

Imran's Animal Rescue

Imran Khan loves animals. Not only does he have two dogs (one of which is a Labrador that he adopted from an owner who didn't want it) and three cats, but the actor now wants to use the land he owns in Panvel to set up an animal shelter for stray animals.

Imran plans to have a vet on the staff there at all times, in order to take care of any animal that makes its way there. He is considering various options to finance the project, and is currently financing it on his own. He hopes to do a tie-up with a larger organization soon, so that he can open up more shelters wherever needed. Currently, he is approaching individuals and businesses to fund him, instead of looking at a single organization.

The animal-lover says that his entire family harbors a deep love for animals - running all the way to uncle Aamir, even! And their rescue of countless defenseless creatures is what inspired him to take such a step.

Deepika, Imran forbidden from tweeting about film

Film director Kunal Kohli, currently shooting for his film 'Break Ke Baad' in Mauritius, has forbidden lead actors Deepika Padukone and Imran Khan from talking about the film on social networking sites on the internet.

Kohli told IANS: 'I've only asked Deepika and Imran to desist from tweeting for three weeks until Imran's new film 'I Hate Luv Storys' is released. I don't want any overlapping in the public's subconscious about the two films. Once Imran's other film is out, he and Deepika are free to tweet to their heart's content.'

This is the second instance when actors have been prohibited from tweeting about a film. In the past, Sajid Nadiadwala had to restrain Ranbir Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra from talking about the film 'Anjaana Anjaani' on the net.

The director's restrictions have, apparently, not been taken well by Imran who was heard grumbling loudly about the curtailment of the freedom of expression.

Justifying his stand, Kohli determinedly said: 'I really don't approve of stars giving out information on micro-blogging sites, but I don't think we should stop them. What I can do is to decide when is the right time to tweet.'

'Waka Waka' Dhamaka for BTown!

After Waka Waka, this time for India!

Nope, that was no typo up there, we did mean India, and not South Africa. Cause she who sings and sways so well is all set to make an advent into our very own tinsel town!

We talk of Shakira, who after the likes of Kylie Minogue (Blue) and Akon (Ra.One) is going to be the next in line to sing for a Bollywood venture.

As per the latest scoops of goosip, Shakira will lend her wonderful vocals to a composition by famous duo Salim-Sulaiman for a film to be directed by Prashanth Chadha where the male lead will be Sachin Joshi, a newcomer who officially owns an energy drink brand endorsed by King Khan.

The set track is expected to be mostly in English, with easy Hindi lyrics interspersing. The movie itself, untitled as of now, is set to be shot in 5 different languages, with even more grand future plans of a world wide release and an anticipated international blockbuster.

Flying high or what?!

Well, after Shakira's extremely rewarding tour of India in 2007, the lady has as much reason to return, as the desi fans do, to await her coming! For all the seemingly far fetched planning of this project, Shakira can jinx it only the good way!

Amitabh Bachchan wishes to go on family holiday

New Delhi, June 18 (IANS) Hectic shooting schedules have left the Bachchan clan with very little time for each other and superstar Amitabh Bachchan longs for a family holiday so that they can spend quality time together.

'Abhishek and Aishwarya have been working round the clock and in different parts of the world. My travels too have been extensive and wide and now one wishes we could all be together maybe for a holiday where we do not have to worry about our schedules, but just to enjoy the company of each other and the beauty of a region we may not have seen before,' Amitabh wrote on his blog bigb.bigadda.com.

While Abhishek and Aishwarya were busy promoting their new film 'Raavan', Big B was in Paris for the recital of his late father Harivansh Rai Bachchan's poems. Although, they came together for the recital and Raavan's London premiere, it was for a short period.

'We have all had an opportunity to be together, to be part of each other's events - the recital in Paris, the film of Abhishek and Aishwarya in London and now we head home to get down to our respective routines,' he added.

However, Big B said that taking a holiday makes him feel guilty.

'It is strange that even though it is recommended and at times a necessary diversion, taking a holiday, at times, makes me feel guilty in a way. I just feel that not working for a single day takes something away from me - an endeavour to justify our existence. Many in the family and those that care often suggest 'you have worked enough, sit back, relax, rest',' he added.

'Now I want Yash Chopra-type love story' - Katrina Kaif

She has scaled tremendous heights in her seven-year-old career, pushing the boundaries with her performance in 'Raajneeti', but guess what Katrina Kaif wants to do now? A typical Yash Chopra-type love story.

'There are a lot of sides to me that are yet to be tapped. After having done 'Raajneeti', it isn't that I am going to do just female-oriented roles because the film has worked in my favour. I want to keep exploring and experimenting with characters and filmmakers,' Katrina told IANS on phone from Spain.

'In fact, right now, I would love to have a one boy-one girl Yashji type of love story in hand or, say, play a loud, boisterous girl - something on the lines of Hemaji's role in 'Seeta Aur Geeta'. Those are fun and interesting roles too. Why limit myself?' asked the 25-year-old.

She is basking in the success of Prakash Jha's 'Raajneeti' where she wowed the audiences as a young, madly-in-love girl who becomes a pawn in the game of politics. In the last 10 minutes of the film, she is seen playing a chief minister and manages to leave a strong impact on viewers.

So far the actress has managed to deliver hits. But Katrina is quick to counter the notion that she is a 'formula' for filmmakers in search of a hit.

'I am no formula. It isn't true that a film becomes a hit because of me. I always put a script above my own role. I always see a film in totality and not just on the basis of my role. The film comes first, the role comes second for me. It's just that god has been very kind and my choices have mostly turned out be right,' said Katrina.

But doesn't she fear failure after such bundles of success?

'I don't get scared. It's wrong if people say a hit is expected of me all the time. Of course, everyone fears failure, but for me there is no added pressure to succeed. It is up to the audience to accept or reject a film and I am happy my audience has supported me so far,' she said in a confident tone.

Currently shooting in Spain for Zoya Akhtar's tentatively titled 'Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara', which also features Hrithik Roshan, Farhan Akhtar and Abhay Deol, Katrina is also looking forward to the release of Farah Khan's 'Tees Maar Khan'.

In Farah's film, she will be featured opposite Akshay Kumar, with whom she has doled out hits like 'Namastey London', 'Welcome' and 'Singh Is Kinng'.

After that, she is looking forward to stepping into the shoes of Priyanka Chopra for Karan Johar's much-awaited sequel to 'Dostana'.